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Coldwell Banker launch February 15th Coldwell Banker on location TV spots - 01/26/2010
On Location®, our exclusive YouTube channel, premieres on national TV February 15 - are you part of it?
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YouTube, you're not part of the national campaign.
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On February 15, our national advertising will launch a television spot for Coldwell Banker On Location®. What better way for you to get your name out in the market than with your very own YouTube channel! Many sales associates already have a vast video collection and are adding to it daily. If you aren't on
You have the option of creating
Follow me on YouTube click this link!
Freeport Florida - 12/11/2009
As a professional Realtor, I care very much about my Military Sellers and Buyers, and like to reassure both during and after the sale of a property. This is why I offer a FREE Home Warranty as part of my Seller and Buyer services to any Active or Retired Military.
For Buyers, a FREE Home Warranty will:
Reduce the cost of the home purchase.
Provide reassurance against incurring major repair expenses for items not identified by a Home Inspector.
Help keep the sale process on schedule if there are unexpected repairs not covered in a Purchase Contract.
Reduce the possibility of after-sale complaints.
Free Home Warranty Limitations and Exclusions
By law this offer must be limited in time, have a known value, and be acceptable to the Lender. This offer is available only during the term of a signed Seller Exclusive Right to Sell contract, or a Buyer Broker Agreement. Seller warranties may be limited in time by the selected home warranty company, and the free warranty for Buyers is for a period of one year starting at the date set by the warranty company. The Free Home Warranty is a standard plan offered by an approved company which typically covers heating, cooling, plumbing, some appliances, electrical and mechanical repairs. Upgrades can be purchased by the Buyer or Seller, such as pool and spa coverage. This offer does not apply to puchases from home builders. This offer excludes service call fees and any other charges, fees, or expenses which may be required by a home warranty, and is limited to coverages detailed in the home warranty contract. This offer is only valid for home warranties offered by approved companies Old Republic Home Warranty, American Home Shield. This offer does not have any monetary value unless an approved company is contracted. To be valid, this offer must be verbally presented by Brandon Jordan or requested by the Buyer or Seller
Crestview Florida Video - 09/18/2009
As a professional Realtor, I care very much about my Military Sellers and Buyers, and like to reassure both during and after the sale of a property. This is why I offer a FREE Home Warranty as part of my Seller and Buyer services to any Active or Retired Military.
For Buyers, a FREE Home Warranty will:
Reduce the cost of the home purchase.
Provide reassurance against incurring major repair expenses for items not identified by a Home Inspector.
Help keep the sale process on schedule if there are unexpected repairs not covered in a Purchase Contract.
Reduce the possibility of after-sale complaints.
Free Home Warranty Limitations and Exclusions
By law this offer must be limited in time, have a known value, and be acceptable to the Lender. This offer is available only during the term of a signed Seller Exclusive Right to Sell contract, or a Buyer Broker Agreement. Seller warranties may be limited in time by the selected home warranty company, and the free warranty for Buyers is for a period of one year starting at the date set by the warranty company. The Free Home Warranty is a standard plan offered by an approved company which typically covers heating, cooling, plumbing, some appliances, electrical and mechanical repairs. Upgrades can be purchased by the Buyer or Seller, such as pool and spa coverage. This offer does not apply to puchases from home builders. This offer excludes service call fees and any other charges, fees, or expenses which may be required by a home warranty, and is limited to coverages detailed in the home warranty contract. This offer is only valid for home warranties offered by approved companies Old Republic Home Warranty, American Home Shield. This offer does not have any monetary value unless an approved company is contracted. To be valid, this offer must be verbally presented by Brandon Jordan or requested by the Buyer or Seller
Niceville Florida Video - 08/21/2009
As a professional Realtor, I care very much about my Military Sellers and Buyers, and like to reassure both during and after the sale of a property. This is why I offer a FREE Home Warranty as part of my Seller and Buyer services to any Active or Retired Military.
For Buyers, a FREE Home Warranty will:
Reduce the cost of the home purchase.
Provide reassurance against incurring major repair expenses for items not identified by a Home Inspector.
Help keep the sale process on schedule if there are unexpected repairs not covered in a Purchase Contract.
Reduce the possibility of after-sale complaints.
Free Home Warranty Limitations and Exclusions
By law this offer must be limited in time, have a known value, and be acceptable to the Lender. This offer is available only during the term of a signed Seller Exclusive Right to Sell contract, or a Buyer Broker Agreement. Seller warranties may be limited in time by the selected home warranty company, and the free warranty for Buyers is for a period of one year starting at the date set by the warranty company. The Free Home Warranty is a standard plan offered by an approved company which typically covers heating, cooling, plumbing, some appliances, electrical and mechanical repairs. Upgrades can be purchased by the Buyer or Seller, such as pool and spa coverage. This offer does not apply to puchases from home builders. This offer excludes service call fees and any other charges, fees, or expenses which may be required by a home warranty, and is limited to coverages detailed in the home warranty contract. This offer is only valid for home warranties offered by approved companies Old Republic Home Warranty, American Home Shield. This offer does not have any monetary value unless an approved company is contracted. To be valid, this offer must be verbally presented by Brandon Jordan or requested by the Buyer or Seller.
Destin Beach Florida Video - 06/17/2009
As a professional Realtor, I care very much about my Military Sellers and Buyers, and like to reassure both during and after the sale of a property. This is why I offer a FREE Home Warranty as part of my Seller and Buyer services to any Active or Retired Military.
For Buyers, a FREE Home Warranty will:
Reduce the cost of the home purchase.
Provide reassurance against incurring major repair expenses for items not identified by a Home Inspector.
Help keep the sale process on schedule if there are unexpected repairs not covered in a Purchase Contract.
Reduce the possibility of after-sale complaints.
Free Home Warranty Limitations and Exclusions
By law this offer must be limited in time, have a known value, and be acceptable to the Lender. This offer is available only during the term of a signed Seller Exclusive Right to Sell contract, or a Buyer Broker Agreement. Seller warranties may be limited in time by the selected home warranty company, and the free warranty for Buyers is for a period of one year starting at the date set by the warranty company. The Free Home Warranty is a standard plan offered by an approved company which typically covers heating, cooling, plumbing, some appliances, electrical and mechanical repairs. Upgrades can be purchased by the Buyer or Seller, such as pool and spa coverage. This offer does not apply to puchases from home builders. This offer excludes service call fees and any other charges, fees, or expenses which may be required by a home warranty, and is limited to coverages detailed in the home warranty contract. This offer is only valid for home warranties offered by approved companies Old Republic Home Warranty, American Home Shield. This offer does not have any monetary value unless an approved company is contracted. To be valid, this offer must be verbally presented by Brandon Jordan or requested by the Buyer or Seller.
Fort Walton Beach Video Just Added - 05/28/2009
Buy A Florida Vacation Home - 04/01/2009
Coldwell Banker International mobile search now available - 02/16/2009
Great Northwest Florida - 12/15/2008
Northwest Florida’s workforce, economic development, education and business communities have a long track record of collaboration and partnership, working together to implement strategies and create solutions to meet current and future workforce needs. In February, 2006 the partnership’s vision for a unified strategic approach to workforce, education, and economic development for a diversified and sustainable economy was accelerated when the U.S. Department of Labor identified Northwest Florida as one of its original 13 WIRED regions.
Florida’s Great Northwest, Inc. is the administrator and facilitating organization for the WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative, Northwest Florida’s regional strategy for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development Initiative. Secured through an extremely competitive bid process, the $15 million federal grant is funding workforce development initiatives throughout Northwest Florida. Established regionally as a matching grant program, this translates into a minimum $30 million investment in talent development addressing the high-wage, high-skill workforce needs in the target industries of Aviation, Aerospace, Defense and National Security; Life Sciences; Information Technology; Engineering; Renewable Energy and Environment; Distribution, Transportation and Logistics; and Construction Product Manufacturing and Distribution. Matching funds generated early in the initiative have been significantly stronger than required, indicating that at the conclusion of the federal grant in early 2010, the WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative will actually represent closer to a $50 million investment in workforce training and training program development for the region. Additional leveraged resources supporting the outcomes of the Initiative include over $87 million of federal funds awarded throughout the region.
The input and guidance provided by the Governance Council and Industry Advisory Councils in each of the target industries is an integral component of the Initiative. Each Industry Advisory Council incorporates membership from the regional partners, including businesses actively engaged in that target industry.
The WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative includes:
Grants enabling job training for new and existing businesses in target industries
Secondary education career academy development that is (1) geared for skills related to entry-level employment in targeted industries or (2) accelerated, intense college preparation in the areas of math and science
Funding of post-secondary training and education programs that develop workforce skills required by target industries
An outreach program to educate and attract sufficient numbers of students of all ages into the skills training programs to meet workforce demands
A strategic development component designed to ensure the workforce development programs are generating skills necessary to meet current and future target industry needs
Strategic Partnerships
On the basis of its membership profile alone, Florida’s Great Northwest exemplifies a regional partnership which most economic development organizations would envy. This partnership includes local economic development organizations with countywide membership including private sector, civic and government leadership; all of the region’s workforce development boards, post-secondary institutions at the community college, four-year college and university levels; and private businesses covering a wide spectrum of disciplines. Florida’s Great Northwest and its members have the capabilities to influence decisions on regional and local levels, and enjoy broad regional support and perspective.
The continuously expanding partnerships that have been built are key to the success of the WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative and the region’s economic position. As a direct result of the Initiative, more coordinated efforts in regional planning are being undertaken. Florida’s Great Northwest has been an active partner in preparation of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies for both the West Florida and Apalachee Regional Planning Councils. Developers of major projects regularly seek counsel from Florida’s Great Northwest in determining how to best align their properties with the region’s economic development strategies. Public education is linking its workforce training curricula to the employment needs and forecasts for the region. Economic development, education and employers have joined forces to assess the region’s economic position and implement programs to foster economic growth.
Critical partnerships include the following:
Post-secondary education institutions, including technical schools, community colleges, four-year colleges and universities
Secondary education systems
The region’s six workforce development boards
Workforce Florida, Inc. and Florida’s Agency for Workforce Innovation
Florida Small Business Development Center’s four Northwest Florida regional offices
Foundations active in the region
Private sector business involvement representing employers in target industries, industry association groups, and support industries such as the finance, accounting and legal industries, engineering and architectural design
The region’s county economic development organizations and chambers of commerce
Enterprise Florida, Inc.
The early results seen so far are only the beginning of the total potential expected to be achieved as a result of the Initiative’s efforts. Through catalytic funding of the U.S. Department of Labor WIRED grant, Florida’s Great Northwest has been able to significantly accelerate workforce development efforts and build the foundation for significant future successes.
Although the initial U.S. Department of Labor funding, the matching funds, and the additional grants Florida’s Great Northwest has been able to leverage are significant and have enhanced job growth and skills training in the region, the real success of the initiative is in the strength of the public-private sector partnership, the shared vision, and strategic plan for long-term economic sustainability and diversification, and a sustainable initiative post-DOL funding. At the funding cycle’s conclusion in 2010, the grant monies may no longer be flowing, but the region’s leadership, vision, and strategy is in place to sustain the initiative far into the future.
Florida’s Great Northwest, Inc. is the administrator and facilitating organization for the WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative, Northwest Florida’s regional strategy for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development Initiative. Secured through an extremely competitive bid process, the $15 million federal grant is funding workforce development initiatives throughout Northwest Florida. Established regionally as a matching grant program, this translates into a minimum $30 million investment in talent development addressing the high-wage, high-skill workforce needs in the target industries of Aviation, Aerospace, Defense and National Security; Life Sciences; Information Technology; Engineering; Renewable Energy and Environment; Distribution, Transportation and Logistics; and Construction Product Manufacturing and Distribution. Matching funds generated early in the initiative have been significantly stronger than required, indicating that at the conclusion of the federal grant in early 2010, the WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative will actually represent closer to a $50 million investment in workforce training and training program development for the region. Additional leveraged resources supporting the outcomes of the Initiative include over $87 million of federal funds awarded throughout the region.
The input and guidance provided by the Governance Council and Industry Advisory Councils in each of the target industries is an integral component of the Initiative. Each Industry Advisory Council incorporates membership from the regional partners, including businesses actively engaged in that target industry.
The WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative includes:
Grants enabling job training for new and existing businesses in target industries
Secondary education career academy development that is (1) geared for skills related to entry-level employment in targeted industries or (2) accelerated, intense college preparation in the areas of math and science
Funding of post-secondary training and education programs that develop workforce skills required by target industries
An outreach program to educate and attract sufficient numbers of students of all ages into the skills training programs to meet workforce demands
A strategic development component designed to ensure the workforce development programs are generating skills necessary to meet current and future target industry needs
Strategic Partnerships
On the basis of its membership profile alone, Florida’s Great Northwest exemplifies a regional partnership which most economic development organizations would envy. This partnership includes local economic development organizations with countywide membership including private sector, civic and government leadership; all of the region’s workforce development boards, post-secondary institutions at the community college, four-year college and university levels; and private businesses covering a wide spectrum of disciplines. Florida’s Great Northwest and its members have the capabilities to influence decisions on regional and local levels, and enjoy broad regional support and perspective.
The continuously expanding partnerships that have been built are key to the success of the WIRED Northwest Florida Initiative and the region’s economic position. As a direct result of the Initiative, more coordinated efforts in regional planning are being undertaken. Florida’s Great Northwest has been an active partner in preparation of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies for both the West Florida and Apalachee Regional Planning Councils. Developers of major projects regularly seek counsel from Florida’s Great Northwest in determining how to best align their properties with the region’s economic development strategies. Public education is linking its workforce training curricula to the employment needs and forecasts for the region. Economic development, education and employers have joined forces to assess the region’s economic position and implement programs to foster economic growth.
Critical partnerships include the following:
Post-secondary education institutions, including technical schools, community colleges, four-year colleges and universities
Secondary education systems
The region’s six workforce development boards
Workforce Florida, Inc. and Florida’s Agency for Workforce Innovation
Florida Small Business Development Center’s four Northwest Florida regional offices
Foundations active in the region
Private sector business involvement representing employers in target industries, industry association groups, and support industries such as the finance, accounting and legal industries, engineering and architectural design
The region’s county economic development organizations and chambers of commerce
Enterprise Florida, Inc.
The early results seen so far are only the beginning of the total potential expected to be achieved as a result of the Initiative’s efforts. Through catalytic funding of the U.S. Department of Labor WIRED grant, Florida’s Great Northwest has been able to significantly accelerate workforce development efforts and build the foundation for significant future successes.
Although the initial U.S. Department of Labor funding, the matching funds, and the additional grants Florida’s Great Northwest has been able to leverage are significant and have enhanced job growth and skills training in the region, the real success of the initiative is in the strength of the public-private sector partnership, the shared vision, and strategic plan for long-term economic sustainability and diversification, and a sustainable initiative post-DOL funding. At the funding cycle’s conclusion in 2010, the grant monies may no longer be flowing, but the region’s leadership, vision, and strategy is in place to sustain the initiative far into the future.
Coldwell Banker on the sprint palm smartphones - 11/30/2008
Coldwell Banker International Business Conference in Orlando, Florida. Real estate agents armed with Sprint Palm® CentroTM smartphones learned how to stay connected to the resources, information, and people they need at every stage of the deal, thanks to Palm, Inc.
According to Palm's Craig Tellalian, strategic account manager at Palm, is demonstrating how real estate professionals can:
Use the Palm Centro to gain a competitive edge, attract clients, gain listings and speed valuable closings;
Stay mobile with wireless access to email (corporate and personal), the Web, contacts, calendar and phone functionality;
Utilize Centro's latest productivity enhancing real estate applications like GE Supra eKey, which allows agents to open and program their own iBoxesTM and Mortgage Calc, which allows agents to calculate complex mortgage payments, including mortgage insurance, estimated property tax and home insurance.
Tellalian is speaking on two sessions at the conference:
Palm® CentroTM Smartphone 101 Hands-on training (Basic)
Discover how this all-in-one phone, camera, email, text-messaging and Web device saves you money, enhances your safety and most of all helps you have more fun. We'll show you how your Centro can:
Connect to your laptop for accessing the Internet from the road at broadband-like speeds.
Get driving directions using GoogleTM Maps
View and edit MS Word documents and Excel spreadsheets
Improve safety on the road by using your voice to create and send
emails or text messages
Includes Google Maps for Mobile application - for turn by turn directions and location searches.
Capture pictures or live video and send them to your broker or clients over the air.
Play music or podcasts.
Close More deals With Palm® CentroTM as your Partner (Advanced)
In the Advanced Session, agents will learn how to stay connected to the resources, information and people they need at every stage of the deal with the Sprint Palm Centro smartphone. They will be shown how to enhance the Centro to gain a competitive edge, attract clients, gain listings, and speed valuable closings.
I think it's pretty cool that the Centro can be used as such an important tool by real estate agents. If I was a real estate agent, I'd be happy to use my Palm smartphone as a helpful tool.
According to Palm's Craig Tellalian, strategic account manager at Palm, is demonstrating how real estate professionals can:
Use the Palm Centro to gain a competitive edge, attract clients, gain listings and speed valuable closings;
Stay mobile with wireless access to email (corporate and personal), the Web, contacts, calendar and phone functionality;
Utilize Centro's latest productivity enhancing real estate applications like GE Supra eKey, which allows agents to open and program their own iBoxesTM and Mortgage Calc, which allows agents to calculate complex mortgage payments, including mortgage insurance, estimated property tax and home insurance.
Tellalian is speaking on two sessions at the conference:
Palm® CentroTM Smartphone 101 Hands-on training (Basic)
Discover how this all-in-one phone, camera, email, text-messaging and Web device saves you money, enhances your safety and most of all helps you have more fun. We'll show you how your Centro can:
Connect to your laptop for accessing the Internet from the road at broadband-like speeds.
Get driving directions using GoogleTM Maps
View and edit MS Word documents and Excel spreadsheets
Improve safety on the road by using your voice to create and send
emails or text messages
Includes Google Maps for Mobile application - for turn by turn directions and location searches.
Capture pictures or live video and send them to your broker or clients over the air.
Play music or podcasts.
Close More deals With Palm® CentroTM as your Partner (Advanced)
In the Advanced Session, agents will learn how to stay connected to the resources, information and people they need at every stage of the deal with the Sprint Palm Centro smartphone. They will be shown how to enhance the Centro to gain a competitive edge, attract clients, gain listings, and speed valuable closings.
I think it's pretty cool that the Centro can be used as such an important tool by real estate agents. If I was a real estate agent, I'd be happy to use my Palm smartphone as a helpful tool.
Coldwell Banker iPhone - 10/15/2008
COLDWELL BANKER BECOMES FIRST NATIONAL REAL ESTATE BRAND TO DEBUT HOME SEARCH INTERFACE FOR iPHONE
Continuing to blaze a path of innovation in the real estate industry, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC today became the first full-service national real estate brand to launch a customized online platform for iPhoneTM users.
The Coldwell Banker flagship Web site, coldwellbanker.com, now has a different look and feel, along with navigation specifically tailored for optimal viewing on the iPhone, most notably with the property listings search and home value estimator functions. When a user accesses the site through his or her handset, the Coldwell Banker Web site automatically recognizes that it is being accessed by an iPhone, and will serve up the special iPhone interface. iPhone users do not need to download any special software to benefit from this enhancement to the Coldwell Banker mobile technology.
"Providing easy access to real-time real estate information is critical for consumers in the home buying and selling process," said Michael Fischer, senior vice president of marketing for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "Distribution of listings is crucial in today's environment. Our mobile society is moving away from the desktop and utilizing cell phones and PDAs for more and more content and entertainment. With so many connecting to the Web by phone, we have to be where the consumer is in a way that makes sense."
Those looking for a home will be able to search for homes and utilize the brand's home value estimator. In addition, consumers will be able to enter specific search criteria such as city, state, price as well as optional filters including number of bedrooms and bathrooms. When a property is selected, iPhone users can view all of the specifications for that home and contact an agent directly.
"Now more than ever consumers want to access information about a home as they see it, pass it or hear about," continued Fischer. "Being in front of a computer should not be mandatory."
Earlier this year Coldwell Banker became the first national real estate brand to put its listings on in-car GPS devices through an exclusive feed to Dash Navigation. Drivers can now call up Coldwell Banker listings, map them, get directions and view other Coldwell Banker listings in close proximity.
iPhone is a registered trademark of Apple Computers, Inc.
Continuing to blaze a path of innovation in the real estate industry, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC today became the first full-service national real estate brand to launch a customized online platform for iPhoneTM users.
The Coldwell Banker flagship Web site, coldwellbanker.com, now has a different look and feel, along with navigation specifically tailored for optimal viewing on the iPhone, most notably with the property listings search and home value estimator functions. When a user accesses the site through his or her handset, the Coldwell Banker Web site automatically recognizes that it is being accessed by an iPhone, and will serve up the special iPhone interface. iPhone users do not need to download any special software to benefit from this enhancement to the Coldwell Banker mobile technology.
"Providing easy access to real-time real estate information is critical for consumers in the home buying and selling process," said Michael Fischer, senior vice president of marketing for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "Distribution of listings is crucial in today's environment. Our mobile society is moving away from the desktop and utilizing cell phones and PDAs for more and more content and entertainment. With so many connecting to the Web by phone, we have to be where the consumer is in a way that makes sense."
Those looking for a home will be able to search for homes and utilize the brand's home value estimator. In addition, consumers will be able to enter specific search criteria such as city, state, price as well as optional filters including number of bedrooms and bathrooms. When a property is selected, iPhone users can view all of the specifications for that home and contact an agent directly.
"Now more than ever consumers want to access information about a home as they see it, pass it or hear about," continued Fischer. "Being in front of a computer should not be mandatory."
Earlier this year Coldwell Banker became the first national real estate brand to put its listings on in-car GPS devices through an exclusive feed to Dash Navigation. Drivers can now call up Coldwell Banker listings, map them, get directions and view other Coldwell Banker listings in close proximity.
iPhone is a registered trademark of Apple Computers, Inc.
Blackwater Heritage State Trail in Northwest Florida - 07/21/2008
Blackwater Heritage State TrailBlackwater Heritage State Trail is officially designated as part of Florida's Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. This is the westernmost rail trail in the state, extending from the small community of Milton in the south to Whiting Field Naval Air Station (NAS) in the north. Managed by the Florida Park Service, it also connects to the Military Trail (also identified on map) which is managed by the US Navy. It's hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. It's mostly a rural trail with only a few dwellings at some of the cross roads once you leave Milton and before you get on the military base. There are some nice creek crossings on wooden bridges with few hills or grades. This is a pleasant trip for the whole family with lots of access and safe riding.
Click here for the trail brochure (PDF 405 kb).
Major Activities
Trail Length/Surface: Blackwater Heritage is 7.0 miles, non-motorized paved (asphalt 12' wide); Military is 2.2 miles, non-motorized paved trail (asphalt 12' wide); equestrian unpaved trail parallels a portion of the paved trail.
Fee: None
County: Santa Rosa
Nearby Towns: Milton
Notes: The Milton Trailhead contains a covered picnic shelter, restrooms, a water fountain, and a bicycle rack. There is a visitor center approximately one mile from the trailhead that offers two picnic tables and parking. The Blackwater Heritage State Trail Citizen Support Organization operates a concession at the visitor center where snacks and souvenirs can be purchased. Benches have been located at various points along the trail for visitor convenience.
The equestrian portion of the trail travels adjacent to a segment of the paved trail with shared bridges. The equestrian trail itself begins about one mile north of the Milton Trailhead, but equestrian access is available at the parking area located at Munson Highway (see parking location identified on map). There is ample oversized parking available, as well as a newly constructed picnic shelter.
When you travel north of the Visitors Center, bring plenty of water with you because there are no facilities for potable water available.
Access/Directions:
Milton Trailhead From I-10 West (coming from Crestview), take Exit 31 (old Exit 10) to SR 87. Follow SR 87 to the intersection with US 90. Take a left (heading west) on US 90. Follow US 90 into Milton to the intersection where SR 87 heads north (to the right). Trailhead is located at this intersection.
From I-10 East (coming from Pensacola), take Exit 26 (old Exit 8) to SR 191. Follow SR 191 through Bagdad into Milton and turn left on US 90. Trailhead is located at the intersection of US 90 and SR 87.
Munson Highway Parking Area Follow directions above to Milton. In Milton, proceed to intersection of US 98 and SR 191. Proceed north on SR 191 (Munson Highway) to intersection with trail and parking area.
Contact Information: Blackwater Heritage State Trail
5533 Alabama Street
Milton, Florida 32564
(850) 983-5338
Blackwater River Canoe Trail - 07/21/2008
The Blackwater River Canoe Trail is officially designated as part of Florida's Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Located in the middle of Florida's Western Highlands, this 31-mile canoe trail flows through the Blackwater River State Forest. Cedar, maple, and cypress trees often form a dense canopy over the river. There are also some high bluffs where pine and cedar trees tower above the paddler. The water is a dark, tannin-stained color. The Creek Indians called the river "Oka Lusa" (water-black). Along the bends, white sandbars provide a perfect place for camping or picnicking. The trail provides opportunity to observe wildlife including deer, turkey and bobcat. The Mississippi Kite soars overhead in the summer. Fishing can be an enjoyable addition to the trip. This panhandle trail ends at the Deaton Bridge, in Blackwater River State Park.** Please note that the river is non-navigable beyond Deaton Bridge at the State Park.
Click here to download printer-friendly map and description (388 kb PDF).
Click here to download printer-friendly map and description (388 kb PDF).
Major Activities
Counties: Okaloosa, Santa Rosa
Mileage: 31
Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
Difficulty: EasyUsual Current: Average (2-3 mph)
Notes and Precautions
The river level fluctuates rapidly following heavy local rains. Check local weather conditions before beginning your trip. The upper part of the river is fairly swift-flowing and requires some paddling experience.
Access
Kennedy Bridge - Take Hwy 90 from Crestview to SR 4. Take SR 4 north to State Forest Road (SFR) 47, the first paved road past Cotton Bridge. Turn right on SFR 47 and head north to the next paved road, SFR 31. Follow SFR 31 about 2 miles north to SFR 24, the dirt road at Hurricane Lake sign. Follow SFR 24 to the bridge.
Peadon Bridge - Same as above to SFR 47. About 2.5 miles north of SFR 47, turn east on first dirt road on right (SFR 50) and continue to bridge. (6 miles)
Cotton Bridge, SR 4 - Four miles northwest of Baker. (5 miles)
Bryant Bridge, SFR 21 - From US 90 at Harold, take SFR 23 north five miles through the Blackwater River State Park to four way stop at SFR 86. Turn right (east) and continue to SFR 21, which leads southeast to bridge. (12 miles)
Blackwater River State Park - From US 90 at Harold, take SFR 23 north three miles to Deaton Bridge within the Park. (8 miles)
There may be access points (both public and private) in addition to those listed here. Please remember that some sites require a fee for launching and /or parking.
Blackwater River State Forest-Jackson Red Ground Trail - 07/21/2008
The Blackwater River State Forest offers a natural retreat set amidst the beautiful rolling hills of northwest Florida. Reaching from Conecuh National Forest along the Alabama border toward Eglin Air Force Base, this state forest is Florida's largest at nearly 190,000 acres. The forest is characterized by its many streams, including the namesake Blackwater River, that flow gently south as they make their way to the Gulf of Mexico. Certified as a segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail, the Jackson Red Ground Trail retraces one of the earliest trade routes of Indians and settlers in Florida. Also, be sure to visit the Sweetwater, Bear Lake and Jackson Trails.
Click here for printer-friendly version. (PDF 420K)
Click here for printer-friendly version. (PDF 420K)
Major Activities 
Trail Length/Surface:Jackson Red Ground is 21.5 miles from end to end, unpaved
Trail Length/Surface:Jackson Red Ground is 21.5 miles from end to end, unpaved
Fee: Fees apply in some areas. Please contact the Division of Forestry for details.
Counties: Okaloosa, Santa RosaNearby Cities: Munson, Crestview
Notes:Jackson Red Ground Trail is blazed orange, and is a segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail. The Florida Trail Association (FTA) produces a detailed hiking guide and segment-by-segment maps which are very useful for hiking the Florida National Scenic Trail. For more information, visit FTA's website at http://www.florida-trail.org/index.htm or call 1-877-HIKEFLA.Three connecting trails are also shown on the map (Sweetwater, Bear Lake and the Wiregrass trail south of Hurricane Lake) are part of the Florida Division of Forestry's Trailwalker Program. This program offers recognition awards for hiking designated trails in state forests throughout Florida. For more information, contact the office below or visit the program's website (www.fl-dof.com/Recreation/Trailwalker/index.html).
Access/Directions:Red Rock Road Area (main access for Jackson Red Ground Trail)From I-10, take the Avalon Boulevard Exit (Exit 22). Follow Avalon Boulevard to US 90. Take a right and continue to Burger King. Take a left at Stuart Street (Hwy 87). Go to Milton High School. Take a right across from Milton High School onto Hwy 191. Follow Hwy 191 north to Red Rock Road at Spring Hill. Take a right on Red Rock Road and proceed to the Red Rock Primitive Area/Canoe Launch. Trail crosses Red Rock Road .3 miles to the east. The south end of Jackson Red Ground Trail begins at the road crossing -- proceed north to enter this portion of the trail. The trail segment south of this crossing is the Juniper Creek Trail.
Krul Recreation Area (main access for Sweetwater Trail)From I-10, take the Avalon Boulevard Exit (Exit 22). Follow Avalon Boulevard to US 90. Take a right and continue to Burger King. Take a left at Stuart Street (Hwy 87). Go to Milton High School. Take a right across from Milton High School on Hwy 191. Follow for approximately 20 miles to the Munson crossroads (Hwy 191 and SR 4). Take a right on SR 4 and continue for .7 miles to the Krul Recreation Area sign. Go to kiosk at day use parking lot.
Bear Lake Recreation Area (main access for Bear Lake Loop Trail)From I-10, take the Avalon Boulevard Exit (Exit 22). Follow Avalon Boulevard to US 90. Take a right and continue to Burger King. Take a left at Stuart Street (Hwy 87). Go to Milton High School. Take a right across from Milton High School on Hwy 191. Follow for approximately 20 miles to Munson crossroads (Hwy 191 and SR 4). Take a right on SR 4 and continue for 2.5 miles to the Bear Lake Recreation Area sign. Go to kiosk in campground for information
Shoal River Canoe Trip - 07/21/2008
Shoal River Canoe TrailThe Shoal River Canoe Trail is officially designated as part of Florida's Statewide System of Greenways and Trails. Twisting and turning through a remote part of the western Panhandle, the Shoal River trail covers 27 miles. Few indications of civilization are evident as you paddle through forests of maple, oak, gum, and cypress. Along the trail, creeks broaden into small lily-covered pools that provide excellent fishing. Sandbars along the bends of the river make good campsites. This narrow river is usually 3-4 feet deep, and water levels do not generally fluctuate more than 3 feet.
Click here for printer-friendly map and description (PDF 393 kb).
Major Activities
Click here for printer-friendly map and description (PDF 393 kb).
Major Activities
Counties: Okaloosa, Walton
Mileage: 27
Skill Level: Beginner
Difficulty: Easy
Usual Current: Average (2-3 mph)
Notes and Precautions Between Access 1 and 2, there are two wooden bridges that collect debris which can be dangerous, especially at high water. The end of the trail is on the northern boundary of the Eglin Air Force Base Reservation. Obtain a base recreation permit if you plan to enter the reservation. Information about permits can be obtained by calling (850) 882-4164 or writing Eglin National Resources, 107 Highway 85 North, Niceville, FL 32578. You can continue seven miles past the takeout at SR 85 to the junction with the Yellow River, another state canoe trail.
Access
SR 285 Bridge - 3.5 miles north of US 90 / SR 285 junction
SR 393 Bridge - About 3 miles north of SR 393 / US 90 intersection. (10 miles)
US 90 Bridge - 4 miles east of Crestview. (8 miles)
SR 85 Bridge - At wayside park, 5 miles south of Crestview. (9 miles)
There may be access points (both public and private) in addition to those listed here. Please remember that some sites require a fee for launching and/or parking.
Blackwater River State Forest Wiregrass Trail - 07/21/2008
The Blackwater River State Forest offers a natural retreat set amidst the beautiful rolling hills of northwest Florida. Reaching from Conecuh National Forest along the Alabama border toward Eglin Air Force Base, this state forest is Florida's largest at nearly 190,000 acres. The forest is characterized by its many streams, including the namesake Blackwater River, that flow gently south as they make their way to the Gulf of Mexico. Located in the northern extent of the state forest, the Wiregrass Trail is certified as a segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail and a portion is included in the Division of Forestry's Trailwalker Program. Among its highlights, the trail takes hikers through part of one of the largest remaining stands of longleaf pine/wiregrass natural community found anywhere.
Click here for a printer-friendly version (PDF 364k)
Major Activities
Trail Length/Surface:
12.7 miles from end to end, unpaved
Fee: None
Counties: Okaloosa, Santa Rosa
Nearby Cities: Munson, Crestview
Notes:
The hiking trail is blazed orange. Heading northwest from the North Hurricane Lake Recreation Area, the trail is 6.4 miles to the terminus at the Alabama border. Heading southeast, it is 6.3 miles to the Jackson Red Ground Trail, which is a continuation of the Florida National Scenic Trail.
The Florida Trail Association (FTA) produces a detailed hiking guide and segment-by-segment maps which are very useful for hiking the Florida National Scenic Trail. For more information, visit FTA's website at http://www.florida-trail.org/ or call 1-877-HIKEFLA.
The 6.3 mile segment from Hurricane Lake to Jackson Red Ground Trail is part of the Division of Forestry's Trailwalker Program. This program offers recognition awards for hiking designated trails in state forests throughout Florida. For more information, contact the office below or visit the program's website (www.fl-dof.com/Recreation/Trailwalker/index.html) .
Directions/Access:
North Hurricane Lake Recreation Area
From Munson, head east on SR 4 2.8 miles to Hurricane Lake Road. Turn left onto Hurricane Lake Road (which eventually becomes Beaver Creek Road) and continue north 8.6 miles to Bullard Church Road. Turn right and continue 1.1 miles to Nichols Road. Take a right and continue to the recreation area. Go to the kiosk in the campground.
From Crestview, head west on US 90 to the intersection with SR 4. Take a right on SR 4 and follow to Hurricane Lake Road. Turn right onto Hurricane Lake Road (which eventually becomes Beaver Creek Road) and continue north 8.6 miles to Bullard Church Road. Turn right and continue 1.1 miles to Nichols Road. Take a right and continue to the recreation area. Go to the kiosk in the campground.
If coming from I-10, take the Avalon Boulevard Exit (Exit 22). Follow Avalon Boulevard to US 90. Take a right and continue to Burger King. Take a left at Stuart Street (Hwy 87). Go to Milton High School. Take a right across from Milton High School on Hwy 191. Follow for approximately 20 miles to Munson crossroads (Hwy 191 and SR 4). Follow directions from Munson above.
Click here for a printer-friendly version (PDF 364k)
Major Activities
Trail Length/Surface:
12.7 miles from end to end, unpaved
Fee: None
Counties: Okaloosa, Santa Rosa
Nearby Cities: Munson, Crestview
Notes:
The hiking trail is blazed orange. Heading northwest from the North Hurricane Lake Recreation Area, the trail is 6.4 miles to the terminus at the Alabama border. Heading southeast, it is 6.3 miles to the Jackson Red Ground Trail, which is a continuation of the Florida National Scenic Trail.
The Florida Trail Association (FTA) produces a detailed hiking guide and segment-by-segment maps which are very useful for hiking the Florida National Scenic Trail. For more information, visit FTA's website at http://www.florida-trail.org/ or call 1-877-HIKEFLA.
The 6.3 mile segment from Hurricane Lake to Jackson Red Ground Trail is part of the Division of Forestry's Trailwalker Program. This program offers recognition awards for hiking designated trails in state forests throughout Florida. For more information, contact the office below or visit the program's website (www.fl-dof.com/Recreation/Trailwalker/index.html) .
Directions/Access:
North Hurricane Lake Recreation Area
From Munson, head east on SR 4 2.8 miles to Hurricane Lake Road. Turn left onto Hurricane Lake Road (which eventually becomes Beaver Creek Road) and continue north 8.6 miles to Bullard Church Road. Turn right and continue 1.1 miles to Nichols Road. Take a right and continue to the recreation area. Go to the kiosk in the campground.
From Crestview, head west on US 90 to the intersection with SR 4. Take a right on SR 4 and follow to Hurricane Lake Road. Turn right onto Hurricane Lake Road (which eventually becomes Beaver Creek Road) and continue north 8.6 miles to Bullard Church Road. Turn right and continue 1.1 miles to Nichols Road. Take a right and continue to the recreation area. Go to the kiosk in the campground.
If coming from I-10, take the Avalon Boulevard Exit (Exit 22). Follow Avalon Boulevard to US 90. Take a right and continue to Burger King. Take a left at Stuart Street (Hwy 87). Go to Milton High School. Take a right across from Milton High School on Hwy 191. Follow for approximately 20 miles to Munson crossroads (Hwy 191 and SR 4). Follow directions from Munson above.
More pictures added to the MLS for the airport home at 502 Tailspin - 06/30/2008
Coldwell Banker wins the Innovator of the year award - 05/20/2008
Beginning May 15th, 2008, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, the 2007 Inman News' Innovator of the Year winner in the brokerage/franchise category, became the first national full-service real estate company to distribute its listings to a GPS device. Coldwell Banker worked with Dash Navigation Inc., the first GPS provider to have an Internet connected GPS device and deliver Web-based content directly to the GPS.Just as Coldwell Banker now feeds listings to such Web sites as Google, Yahoo, Trulia and others, brand listings from around the U.S. will now be fed to DASH users by accepting the Coldwell Banker feed via their "myDash" personalized Web site. Listings then automatically load on their Dash navigation device."We have been waiting for the day to deliver our listings to GPS users and are thrilled that the Dash Express has finally opened that door to us," said Michael Fischer, senior vice president of marketing for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. "Our relationship with Dash is a natural progression in our effort to have consumers engage with Coldwell Banker at every turn so that when the time comes to enter the market they are apt to collaborate with a Coldwell Banker sales associate. "The Coldwell Banker feed, now exclusive to Dash, allows consumers to call up Coldwell Banker listings, map them, get directions and view other Coldwell Banker listings in close proximity.
Crestview Florida Main Street office building for sale more pictures of the landmark building - 05/20/2008
Landmark office Building for sale over 5700 sq ft on Historic Main Street - 03/18/2008
Commercial Sales - Office
MLS #: 488332m OfficeFile#: ListPrice: $1,190,000
Status: Active Last Change: Property Type:
PropName: CHIROPRACTIC & ATTORNEY BUILDING Price/Sq Ft:
Location: 102 & 104 MAIN STREET Price/Unit:
CRESTVIEW, FL Price/Acre:
ZipCode: 32536 Building Sq Ft: 5715
County: OKALOOSA Frontage:
MainArea: 25 Crestview Area WF Feet:
SubArea: 03 CRESTVIEW NORTHWEST YearBuilt: 1925
ParcelID: 17-3N-23-2490-0008-048F Const Status: Existing
Directions: Downtown Crestview corner of N. Main Street and Industrial.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Truly priced to sell, this is a one-of-a-kind building great for investing in the rapidly growing Crestview area. With a perfect location in downtown Crestview's revitalized "Florida Main Street" state-designated historic district, this two-story circa 1925 landmark was built as a hotel with eleven rooms on the second floor which were converted into office space. It is situated thirty miles from the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, near Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Pensacola & Navarre on the I-10 corridor in the fastest growing city of its size in the entire state; also near aerospace hub of Eglin Air Force Base with rapid growth due to BRAC realignment. The first floor has two separate storefronts, one of which is currently a doctor's office and will relocate or continue with a lease. This storefront features terrazo flooring. The entire second floor has clear-coated tongue-and-groove heart of pine walls and ten-foot ceilings with exposed "Chicago Brick" on the outer facing walls. The second floor also includes a full kitchen, tiled floors, a gas range, crown molding and trim on all 17 second-story windows and solid wood custom cabinets as well as hand-built custom carpentry with cypress, cedar, and pine throughout. Each room has a ceiling fan. The second-floor bath features a custom-built tiled shower. There is a 420 square foot deck off the second floor as well. The exterior is all brick with new hurricane-insulated windows and 2 new insulated and tinted storefront windows. These are the all new 2000-2005 mechanicals: new A/C and heat pumps, electrical wiring, plubming, CAT5 data/telephone lines and amplified digital cable to current code in every room. This property need to be seen to be truly appreciated. It is ideal for office space or a restaurant/bar. A unique piece of property you don't want to miss. Owner may finance for qualified buyer.
New Coldwell Banker Ads - 03/11/2008
Click the button to call me - 03/05/2008
Study Military's impact strong and growing - 03/05/2008
Press release came across my mailbox today.
Who do you turn to for economic security along the Emerald Coast when the bottom drops from the real estate market?
The military.
A study released by Enterprise Florida concluded that military spending remains one of the state's leading growth industries.
DOCUMENTS:
Read the entire Florida Defense Factbook
Read the economic impact analysis: Volume 1 , Volume 2 and Volume 3
It's particularly valuable to Northwest Florida, where defense-related spending accounts for 35 percent of gross regional product.
According to the "Florida Defense Industry Economic Impact Analysis" completed by the University of West Florida's Haas Center for Business Research and Economic Development, between Oct. 1, 2004, and Sept. 30, 2005, in Okaloosa County:
l Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field generated $2.2 billion in defense spending.
l Countywide, the economic impact of the military was $6.6 billion.
l The average annual earnings per military job is approximately $81,300, or 199 percent more than the area's other jobs in industries such as farming, retail and construction.
The air bases are "incredibly important for all the obvious reasons," said Jim Breitenfeld of the Okaloosa County Economic Development Council. "The high wages. The total spending."
Though the report attributes 73 percent of economic activity in Okaloosa to defense-related spending, Breitenfeld said he wasn't alarmed because the bases are stable employers.
"I don't know if we're dependent (on the military), but it would be a heck of a withdrawal if it disappears tomorrow," he said.
Breitenfeld would like to see Northwest Florida diversify economically in areas where it has competitive advantage such as aviation and high-technology information processing.
In Santa Rosa County, Naval Air Station Whiting Field contributed some $857 million to the economy. Its average annual military wage in fiscal year 2005 was $99,800.
Overall, the military presence in Florida promises only to grow, the Haas report continued. By 2010, military spending statewide might have an impact of $59.5 billion, which would be $7.5 billion more than in 2005.
"While Florida's economy has faced challenges during the past few quarters, particularly in areas hardest hit by the real estate slowdown, high-wage, defense-related jobs are somewhat immune to downturns in the business cycle," said Enterprise Florida president John Adams in a news release.
"They provide strength in Florida's economy even in difficult times."
Daily News Staff Writer Mladen Rudman
Kohls Fort Walton Beach coming soon - 03/05/2008
FORT WALTON BEACH - Although its corporate office still will not confirm it, Kohl's is coming.
The Okaloosa County Commission unanimously approved site plans for a new Kohl's department store to be located near the intersection of Beal Parkway and Hurlburt Road in Fort Walton Beach.
With Tuesday's approval, construction is expected to start early next month, said John Kramp, site development manager for Kohl's. He said they hope to have the store open by the end of the year.
"It's going to be a fairly long road (before the store opens)," Kramp said. "The timetable is up in the air."
The first phase will be the demolition of the Bay Furniture building.
The new 103,990-square-foot department store will replace the old Bay Furniture next to Winn-Dixie.
The only question commissioners had about the project before its approval was about its storm-water retention. Storm-water guidelines are stricter now than when the furniture store was built, and Kohl's will have to upgrade the retention ponds.
The Daily News contacted Kohl's corporate office Tuesday afternoon for additional information on the new store. Despite its impending approval, Kohl's would not confirm the store.
"At this time, we've not announced any plans to open a new store in the Fort Walton Beach community," Kohl's spokeswoman Courtney K. Rogaczewski responded in an e-mail. "Kohl's has an ongoing real estate assessment process. At any given time, Kohl's is reviewing sites in communities nationwide. We do not comment on real estate speculation. When we have firm details, we are happy to share it at that time."
That is the same response Rogaczewski sent to the Daily News last month.
Article by
Dusty Ricketts
I was really happy to see this I would always find myself going to the Kohls in Ohio for this and that and its about time we got one of these.
Mossy head blackstone development - 03/05/2008
Mossy Head is a peaceful, sleepy community
Also in the future of Mossy Head is the
Blackstone Development, a 1,300 acre major
project that will provide a balanced mix of residences,
shops, services, civic building and recreational
facilities. There will be approximately
3,300 dwellings (2,200 single-family and 1,100
multi-family units), 140,00 square feet of retail
and service, 37,500 square feet of office space,
day care and an 18 hole golf course. Phase I may
begin as early as 2006 with an anticipated buildout
date of 2015-2020.
The size of these developments will call for
infrastructure needs, most importantly water and
sewer. Tom Terrell, President of Mossy Head
Waterworks, is working closely with the Walton
County Board of Commissioners to explore
options to provide the necessary services. District
3 Commissioner Larry Jones, who represents the
area, agrees that there is going to be a pressing
need in the not-so distant future. Details, costs
and a timeframe are still being looked at, but
Jones wants the county to move quickly so that
sewer service is available at the industrial park by
the time the new school opens.
The Mossy Head Elementary School, to be
located on a 20 acre site was donated from the
Board of County Commissioners to the School
Board, is anticipated to be open for the 2008
school year. The School Board is actively looking
for locations to build a Junior and High School.
Commissioner Larry Jones has worked hard
to obtain a grant for a community park and the
efforts paid off when Walton County was awarded
a grant in the amount of $200,000 from DEP
through the Florida Recreation Development
Assistance Program (FRDAP). The park site is
located at 13170 US Highway 90, just behind the
Mossy Head EMS Station. Walton received a
waiver of any matching requirements through the
REDI (Rural Economic Development Initiative).
The park will have a pavilion, playground with
splash pad, swing sets, an exercise trail, picnic
facilities, benches, restrooms, fencing, and parking
area.
Welcome to the future Mossy Head!
Mossy Head economic development - 03/05/2008
Mossy Head is a peaceful, sleepy community nestled on high ground in Northwest Walton County. What makes this area so attractive for economic development? Several factors are involved, including but not limited to:
easy Interstate 10 access, railroad facilities, proximity to Eglin Air Force Base, reasonable housing costs, Walton County Industrial Park, Blackstone Development of Regional Impact (DRI), newschool and $200,000 grant for a community park .The area knows it is about to experience a tremendous growth spurt and long-time pillars ofthe community want to make sure that proper planning procedures are in place to ensure 'smartgrowth' so they can maintain the rural county atmosphere while at the same time becoming an economic force in the county.
The Walton County Industrial Park, which encompasses approximately 333 acres, has been in the planning stages for many years. A master plan for the project was submitted on behalf of the Walton County Board of Commissioners to the Planning and Development Services Department in July 2006. The plan calls for 40%manufacturing, 40% warehouse and 20% of office space. Creating a master plan will encourage businesses to move into the park because it will facilitate obtaining a development order, which in turn means being able to start-up more quickly and begin the process of hiring new employees. The park is also part of an enterprise zone which provides incentives for businesses to locate there.
Green Building grants - 03/05/2008
Grant Funds up to $50,000 per Project
Now Available for Developers Committed to Providing Green* Affordable Housing
Applications must be received online by April 11
Awards are expected to be made by the last week of June
Grant guidelines and application available at www.greencommunitiesonline.org
*Please note that Enterprise and its partners have updated the Green Communities Criteria. Before starting the application please make sure to request the new Criteria at: http://www.greencommunitiesonline.org/tools/criteria/request.asp
My mobile text address - 03/05/2008
My mobile text address 8507581236@txt.att.net
St. Joe Results to previous blog entry - 03/05/2008
I ran across an article I posted on my previous blog that I wanted to check out how things went now almost a year later here are the results.
Haven Custom Homes Press Release
Feburary 13, 2008
EMBARGOED: FOR RELEASE FEBRUARY 13, 2008
For further information contact:
John Ragland
Executive Vice President,
Land Acquisitions and Marketing
Haven Custom Homes
Phone: (410) 694-0094
http://www.havenhome.com/ /
TUCKER BAYOU, SOUTHERN LIVING IDEA HOUSE, WINS HOME OF THE YEAR AWARD AT BEST IN AMERICAN LIVING AWARDS CEREMONY
ORLANDO, Florida -Tucker Bayou, a 2007 Southern Living Idea House, was awarded the prestigious Home of the Year during the Best In American Living Awards (BALA) ceremony in Orlando. The innovative home was a result of strategic partnerships among Looney Ricks Kiss Architects, The St. Joe Company (NYSE: JOE), Haven Custom Homes and Southern Living magazine. Founding Principal J. Carson Looney, FAIA, of Memphis, Tenn.-based Looney Ricks Kiss Architects accepted the award.
"Tucker Bayou is an example of how strong partnerships can work together to create innovative concepts in new home design and produce a home that is widely acclaimed by the marketplace," Looney said. "A collaboration such as the one we have created with Haven Custom Homes, The St. Joe Company and Southern Living will change the way people look at design and modular construction and will ultimately improve the future of neighborhood developments."
Tucker Bayou was chosen as Home of the Year based on its architectural design by Looney Ricks Kiss Architects, site and landscaping by JOE, quality craftsmanship and architectural detail by Haven Custom Homes and interior design by Looney Ricks Kiss Interiors Group.
Located in The St. Joe Company's WaterSound community in South Walton County in Northwest Florida, the home is a 3,544 square-foot, shingle-sided, tin-roofed Southern cottage that combines the comfort of an empty nester vacation home with features that suit the versatile lifestyles - both social and private - of today's families. Haven Custom Homes utilized modular construction for Tucker Bayou, resulting in a home that was substantially complete upon arrival to the site and assembled in a matter of days. Site and landscaping details were then completed by St. Joe and the home's interior design was created by Ann Parker with Looney Ricks Kiss Interiors group, working with the Southern Living design team.
"Every partner contributed their expertise, from the initial design to the interior details, to create Tucker Bayou," said John Ragland, executive vice president, Land Acquisitions and Marketing for Haven Custom Homes. "We were privileged to work with such esteemed partners on this project and look forward to creating more innovative, award-winning homes in the future."
"With this project, we have advanced the art and science of homebuilding in Northwest Florida," said Jerry M. Ray, The St. Joe Company's Senior Vice President for Strategic Alliances. "Ultimately, this award demonstrates that a group of best-in-class strategic partners can effectively deliver an extraordinary product for homeowners. We look forward to this award-winning approach to homebuilding in all of JOE's Florida markets."
The St. Joe Company, one of Florida's largest real estate development companies, and Haven Custom Homes, one of the nation's leaders in the construction of modular homes, formed a strategic alliance in 2007 to bring state-of-the-art building techniques to JOE's communities in Northwest Florida and JOE's RiverTown near Jacksonville, Fla. Haven Custom Homes also has a strategic partnership with Looney Ricks Kiss Architects to create modular homes rich in architectural detail and design.
For more than 30 years, Haven Custom Homes has provided a unique approach to off-site construction. Partnering with local builders, Haven Custom Homes has delivered more than 350 quality homes each year to discerning buyers with homes prices ranging from $300,000 to $2.5 million. Haven Custom Homes was acquired by Wind River Holdings in late 2005, a private holding company out of King of Prussia, PA, and is poised to make significant expansion in the homebuilding business. Haven Custom Homes currently operates environmentally protected home building centers in Pennsylvania and South Carolina, with future expansion into other regions to meet the growing demand of its quality homes. For more information about Haven Custom Homes, visit www.HavenHomes.com or call (410) 694-0098.
Founded in 1983, Looney Ricks Kiss is an architecture, planning and interiors firm with offices in Memphis, Celebration, Rosemary Beach, Jacksonville, Nashville, Dallas, Baton Rouge, La., Boulder, CO and Princeton, N.J. The firm has been commended by developers across the nation for its success in the planning and implementation of mixed-use developments, urban infill projects, downtown revitalization and traditional neighborhood developments. To date, the firm has received more than 450 awards of recognition for design at local, state, regional and national levels. For more information about Looney Ricks Kiss, visit the company website at http://www.lrk.com/.
The St. Joe Company, a publicly held company based in Jacksonville, is one of Florida's largest real estate developing companies. The company is primarily engaged in real estate development and sales, with significant interests in timber. Its mission is to create places that inspire people and make JOE's Florida a better play to live, work and play.
Sponsored by Professional Builder magazine and the National Association of Home Builders, the BALA program showcases homes that illustrate design quality, succeed in the marketplace and exemplify the "Best in American Living." To qualify, homes must have been completed or communities opened between May 1, 2005, and July 12, 2006. A total of 106 award winners in 41 categories were chosen from more than 559 entries. The 2006 BALA competition's panel of 12 judges was composed of builders, marketing experts, architects, land planners, developers, design professionals, interior designers and Professional Builder editor.
Photography:
1.) Tucker Bayou - © 2007 Photography courtesy of Southern Living, Inc Magazine
ST. JOE Innovations - 03/05/2008
I ran across an article below that is turning a year old and I wanted to check on each project and see how things are going.
St . Joe Innovations
Among this year's out-of-the-ordinary from landowner St. Joe Co.:
» A prebuilt house assembled in a day. The home, constructed at WaterSound in Walton County, is a Haven Homes off-site built model using factory-made components. It will be a featured Idea House in Southern Living magazine.
» A fast-round golf course with six holes and three sets of tees. The course, designed by professional player Davis Love III , will open at WaterSound this spring.
» A town center design with interpretations by six architects. Six buildings, representing individual takes on the region's indigenous architecture, will begin opening this summer at WindMark Beach in Gulf County.
» A restoration project returning woods to the way Hernando DeSoto found them in 1539. St. Joe is converting industrial pine forest to the region's original forestlands at a 7,000-acre site at Breakfast Point in Bay County, where the National Audubon Society is partnering with St. Joe to build a state-of-the-art nature center
Natural Springs Private Lake Estate - 01/08/2008
MLS #:
482878
OfficeFile#: Type: LA
ListPrice:
$2,600,000
$2,600,000
Status:
Active
Active
Location: LOT 1 HILTON RD
BAKER, FL
BAKER, FL
ZipCode: 32531
County:
OKALOOSA
Stories:
1
1
MainArea:
25 Crestview Area
25 Crestview Area
YearBuilt:
1988
1988
SubArea:
10 BAKER & MILLIGAN
10 BAKER & MILLIGAN
Acreage:
70.00
70.00
ParcelID:
17-3N-24-0000-0004-0000
17-3N-24-0000-0004-0000
PropType:
Land/Acreage
Land/Acreage
Directions:
From 85 & 90 in Crestview head 90 west to Hwy 4 Take Hwy 4 north for two miles to just before the ball park, left takes you to Hilton this acreage is located at the end of the private drive.
From 85 & 90 in Crestview head 90 west to Hwy 4 Take Hwy 4 north for two miles to just before the ball park, left takes you to Hilton this acreage is located at the end of the private drive.
Legal:
NW1/4 EX PART NE OF ST RD & EX PART SE OF CO RD & SW1/4 LYING NW OF CO RD
NW1/4 EX PART NE OF ST RD & EX PART SE OF CO RD & SW1/4 LYING NW OF CO RD
Description:
This luxurious "natural springs" waterfront acreage is set in an impressive position, with sweeping panoramic views over your own private lake. It makes a great impression! There is an all-brick home that boasts a large front porch overlooking the lake. The home has two master bedrooms, a large living area with a great view of your private natural springs lake. Ideal for entertaining and relaxing, it is a peaceful haven with a large reception area. The home was completed in 1998 and offers interior space of 1751 square feet, laid out on 70 acres. The beautiful living area includes, while outdoors, a lovely multitude of mature trees that add to the breathtaking surroundings.
Some of the area that I cover - 01/08/2008
Beaches of South Walton South Walton Real Estate North Walton Real Estate 30-A Real Estate Freeport Florida Real Estate Inlet Beach Real Estate Dune Allen Real Estate Miramar Beach Real Estate Santa Rosa Beach Real Estate Seacrest Real Estate Watersound Real Estate Watercolor Real Estate Blue Mountain Beach Real Estate Rosemary Beach Real Estate Grayton Beach Real Estate SanDestin Real Estate Seagrove Real Estate Seaside Real Estate Sandestin Resort Real Estate Destin Condos Resources Destin Condos Destin Beaches Destin Homes For Sale Okaloosa Island Real Estate Fort Walton Beach Real Estate Mary Esther Real Estate Shalimar Real Estate Niceville Valparaiso Real Estate Bluewater Bay Real Estate Navarre Beach Real Estate Navarre Real Estate Holly By The Sea Real Estate Gulf Breeze Real Estate
Coldwell Banker United Realtors - 11/19/2007
I am pleased to announce that I have joined the team at Coldwell Banker United Realtors, the largest Coldwell Banker in the nation. What does this mean for me? This means more exposure for anyone that lists a property with me to help them sell their property. Coldwell Banker United has offices in Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, and Mississippi. This gives instant access to the second-largest real estate website behind Realtor.com. Coldwell Banker United Realtors just seems to fit perfect with my direction as I have just been E-Pro certified. Coldwell Banker United Realtors does automatic feeds to all of the top realty search engines -- Trulia, Zillow, Homegain and all others, big or small. I look forward to offering my clients many new features that are just part of being with Coldwell Banker United Realtors.
Airport Home in Northwest Florida - 11/19/2007
502 Tailspin Lane Holt Florida Airport Home for sale
ListPrice:
$575,000
Status: Active
ApproxSF:
1,500 BG:
Bedrooms: 2
Baths Full/Half: 3/
Zip 32564
County: OKALOOSA
Stories: 1
MainArea:
25 Crestview Area
YearBuilt:
2007
SubArea: 11 HOLT
OccStat: New
Subdiv: METES & BOUNDS
ImmOcc? Y
ParcelID: 09-2N-25-0000-0024-0050
ConstrStat: ConstrCmplt
ElemSch: BAKER Middle: BAKER High: BAKER
Dir:
From Holt Exit off I-10 go south on Log Lake Rd turn left on Tail Spin property is on the right.
Legal:
COM NE COR LOT 45 HILLCREST GROVE W870 FT TO POB W 145 FT S276 FT E145.& COM NW COR BLK G LAKEWOOD EST N229 FT N81 DEG E108 FT TO POB N81 DEG E230 FT
Exclusive Airport home.As you enter,you'll immediately notice this home's open floor plan with cathedral-style ceiling and wonderful natural light from the large and numerous windows. Notice the wood cabinets and hardwood floors as you enter in the kitchen. The large island with bar features a stainless steel sink, brand-new dishwasher,ample counter space and recessed lighting above. The kitchen also features a brand-new refrigerator,stove,and microwave as well. The hardwood floors extend into the spacious living room with a wonderful view courtesy of the windows and french doors leading to a covered back porch that runs the entire length of the house.Both bedrooms are carpeted and contain enormous 11x11 private baths, both of which have glassed-in showers and are tiled in natural stone. The bedrooms also have large Hampton bay ceiling fans and large window ledges for plants and bric-a-brac. Adjoining the house is an airstrip, a large guest house, and an airplane hangar. The hangar is 2000 square feet and can accomodate two aircraft. It contains a sink,mini-fridge, plenty of shelving, and a full bath for those long days after flying your plane. Fly to your private air strip and park your plane in your own hangar.The airport home owner association has a 2500 foot air strip that is located just north of destin and fort walton beaches and minutes from Eglin Air Force Base.
Lot Dim.:
IRR
LotAcc:
Near Interstate Exit, Private Road
PrkingFeat:
Boat, Detached, Guest, Other, Oversized, RV
Acres:
1.75
Zoning:
Residential Single Family
LotFeat:
Cleared, Irregular, Level, See Remarks
ProjFacil:
Airfield
Dimnsns
LivingRoom
1
19'5x15
Design:
Contemporary
Kitchen
1
19'5x13
Bedrm:Additnl
1
16x11
Bedrm:Additnl
1
16x11
Bath: Full
1
11x11
ExtFeatures:
Porch Covered, Separate Living Area, Guest Quarters
Bath: Full
1
11x11
IntFeatures:
Breakfast Bar, Ceiling:Cathedral, Guest Quarters, Kitchen:Island, Lighting:Recessed, Split Bedroom, Washer/Dryer Hookup
Appliances:
Auto Garage Door Opener, Dishwasher, Disposal, Microwave, Oven:Self Cleaning, Refrigerator
Utilities:
Community Water, Electric, Phone, Septic Tank, TV Cable, Underground
Energy:
A/C: Central Electric, Heat: Central Electric
Mbed/Mbath: Mbath Shower Only, Mbath Tile, Mbed Carpeted, Mbed First Floor,
American home remodeling projections - 08/19/2007
Americans will spend nearly $232 billion on home remodeling this year, according to the National Association of Home Builders' (NAHB) 2007 industry forecast. This represents a 1.9 percent increase from the record $228 billion spent in 2006, according to estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. NAHB announced this forecast this week at a teleconference celebrating National Home Remodeling Month.
"Remodeling continues to show strength despite the housing slowdown," said NAHB Remodelers Chairman Mike Nagel, a home remodeler from Chicago. "With more than 120 million homes in the United States plus $11 trillion in owner equity, the demand for remodeling will be there now and in the future." Remodeling currently accounts for more than 40 percent of the home construction industry by dollar volume.
RIS Media reports - 08/19/2007
RISMEDIA- According to the latest Swanepoel Trends Report the industry has never before experienced as many new business models and competition as it has during the last couple of years as well as growing government interest in the industry.
It seems that the Federal Government doesn't feel that the industry is doing enough and that real estate brokers and state regulators and legislators have impeded competition. Hence, in a new report by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ, it has decided to participate in the transformation of the industry by deciding that certain existing laws, rules and regulations need to be repealed.
Although the FTC acknowledges that real estate industry has undergone a number of substantial changes in recent years it also states that competition has been hindered as a result of actions taken by some real estate brokers acting through MLSs and the National Association of Realtors and state legislatures and real estate commissions. The report points to various areas in which the diversity and power of these new models are already reshaping the way real estate is conducted.
According to the report it's all about the consumer, of course, and making sure that their choices are not limited. The Feds especially want regulators to pursue a detailed study of commission rate and fee practices to better measure price competition in the industry. Their feeling is that as commission fees "do not vary in proportion to changing home prices," they are considered to be "relatively inflexible" and therefore have in real terms become too high.
FTC chairwoman Deborah Platt Majoras said, "The FTC is committed to working with the industry and policymakers to ensure that competition is not inhibited and that consumers are well-informed about this important marketplace. Home ownership is the American dream, and real estate brokers have helped to achieve that dream for many. But when anticompetitive practices stand in the way, consumers lose."
Real estate brokers and agents don't want consumers to loose, so that isn't the issue. The real debate is how to "ensure" that the consumer does not loose.
The FTC is recommending that state "legislators and industry regulators" should consider repealing existing laws, rules and regulations like minimum-service and anti-rebate provisions that limit choice and reduce the ability of new brokerage models to compete. To date 12 states have enacted so-called "minimum-service" or "limited-service" laws; Florida, Illinois, Alabama, Iowa, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Indiana, New Mexico, Virginia and Tennessee.
At this point the minimum-service laws appear to accomplish little more than to add another level of disclosure to the growing stack of paper in a transaction that is already too complex. Many home sellers and buyers already struggle to grasp even the basic aspects of agency and this new addition seems to add no real value to the consumer. In some states, Tennessee for example, agents must spell out services they are not providing to the home buyer or seller - now that makes no sense at all.
There is a broad consensus that the industry has too many licensed real estate agents today for the number of transactions. A former chief economist for NAR, John Tuccillo said in reference to the recent hot market, "There are large numbers of Realtors out there who have not participated in a transaction in months, or even years - and this during the best real estate market in history. The level of competence in the industry has fallen to its lowest point ever," he adds.
So is the solution the implementation of impractical "minimum-service" levels or to follow the latest recommendation to repeal them? Wouldn't a logical argument be that the time has come to rather increase the quality and quantity of the education required to obtain a real estate license in the first place?
The barrier to enter the industry in real estate is very low and when compared to other industries the licensing requirements are far too easy. The average real estate agent only needs to complete some 48 hours of pre-licensing training and pass a simple multiple choice exam to obtain a real estate license. According to research by Anthony Marguleas of A. M. Realty, a California esthetician requires 600 hours, a hair stylist 1,500 hours and a plumber 2,080 hours before they are licensed. The hours required to become a doctor, lawyer, engineer or CPA are obviously off the chart.
So, back to the debate of not wanting the consumer to loose and it is surprising that the FTC Report in its Conclusion and Recommendations does not say one word about ensuring that the participants in the industry are better qualified.
Isn't the logical step to improve the quality and level of service given to the consumer by first improving the quality and level of education and training of the brokers and agents tasked to serve the consumer? Surely this can't be anti-competitive.
The current real estate pre-license education most individuals receive is primarily focused on gaining a better understanding of many of the terms and principles found in the industry so they can pass the exam. The course does little, if anything, to prepare them to become a successful real estate professional.
Therefore, today's average new real estate agent has not been equipped with the necessary skills to properly serve today's consumer. Jim Sherry puts it very bluntly when he states that "Consumers have no guarantee that anyone calling themselves a Realtor actually knows what they are doing."
If the FTC wishes to make recommendations, perhaps it should be recommending higher and better quality pre-licensing as well as ongoing education. This would help ensure that those people licensed to work with the most valuable asset the average family has will be competent in doing so - be he or she a "traditional," "new paradigm" or "online" agent.
Either way, both the FTC/DOJ 2007 Report and the Swanepoel Trends Report 2007 point to the significant change continuing to take place in the real estate industry. For some agents that have been in the industry a long time the "gravy train" has come to an end.
The real estate broker and agent of tomorrow will have to accept the fact that more of them will be fighting for fewer transactions - transactions that are likely to be carrying lower commissions. At the same time technology and new business models will continue to erode away certain functions or duties traditionally exclusively undertaken by real estate agents - again pointing to a decline in earnings per agent.
Real estate has always been a fiercely competitive industry and it is only going to become more so.
A list of all my real estate blog feeds - 08/19/2007
Here is a list of all of my Real Estate Blog Feeds:
My Wordpress runs with a 2.0 RSS feed
http://okaloosamls.wordpress.com/feed/
My active rain running a atom feed
http://activerain.com/blogs/okaloosamls/atom
My typepad running a XML feed
http://okaloosamls.typepad.com/teamsoldtv/rss.xml
MY blogger running a atom feed
http://teamsoldtv.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?alt=rss
My space rss feed
http://blog.myspace.com/blog/rss.cfm?friendID=185758128
Add any of the above feeds to your blogs or your homepages.
What does the Walton County Government do - 08/19/2007
What does the Walton county government do
The department of corrections
The construction management department
Parks and Recreation
GIS (Geographic Information System)
The finance Division
The human Resources Division
The planning and development division
Public Works
Emergancy Response
The citizen services division
Find more information on each of the services divisions provided by Walton county Florida at there official website you can click here to go directly to the site www.co.walton.fl.us information provided by CO.Walton.FL.US
New stores coming to Panama city beach - 08/19/2007
Panama city bost new stores opening just about every month. The new members coming include Target stores,Ron Jon surf shop,Panera bread,Starbucks,Southern Theaters,Ripley's believe it or not,Bonefish grill,Dillards,old navy,Back porch seafood house,jimmy buffets,barefoot beach club and many more. Not to mention a housing boom to support all of this new commercial acitvity. Including 5,000 new housing units from lake powell to the bridge flyover in various stages of development
Realogy corp has announced the appointment of vice president - 08/19/2007
Corporation has announced the appointment of Marilyn J. Wasser as executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary. For the past two years, Wasser served as executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary for Telcordia Technologies, a leading global provider of telecommunications software and services. In her new role, Wasser will provide strategic legal direction and support for Realogy and its business units, including the Realogy Franchise Group and its five brand networks - Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Coldwell Banker Commercial, ERA and Sotheby's International Realty - as well as NRT Incorporated, Cartus and Title Resource Group. As general counsel, she will be responsible for Realogy's legal efforts in the areas of compliance, litigation and regulatory affairs, human capital, benefits and corporate services, as well as the company's government relations function.
* NRT Incorporated, the nation's largest residential real estate brokerage, today announced the promotion of Hal Maxwell to regional senior vice president of NRT's new Mid-Atlantic region. In this role, Maxwell will oversee a newly created region that comprises NRT-owned companies in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Maureen Passerini, formerly the regional senior vice president for NRT's Eastern Seaboard region, which included local operating companies in the Mid-Atlantic, will now oversee a new region to be known as the Northeast region, comprised of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage companies in New Jersey, Long Island, Pittsburgh, Connecticut/Westchester and New England. Maxwell most recently served as president and chief operating officer of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in the Mid-Atlantic.
* Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates, Inc. has announced that real estate entrepreneur Jenny Pruitt and real estate executive David Boehmig have partnered to form Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty. The company will serve consumers seeking to sell or buy homes throughout the Buckhead and North Atlanta markets. Pruitt will serve as chief executive officer and Boehmig as president. Pruitt left Jenny Pruitt & Associates earlier this year after fulfilling a five-year contract with HomeServices, which had purchased the firm in 2001.
* David Franzetta has been named chairman and partner for Prudential Arizona Properties. Most recently Franzetta was a principal of Interchange Associates, Inc., an international think tank and research-based consulting firm.
Hud announcement - 08/19/2007
U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alphonso Jackson announced this week that thousands of communities around the country will receive nearly $1.8 billion to promote HUD's affordable housing and first-time homebuyers programs. The total national funding of $1.757 billion will support HUD's HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) and American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) in fiscal year 2007.
HOME is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to produce affordable housing for low-income families. ADDI helps first-time homebuyers with the biggest hurdle to homeownership: downpayment and closing costs. The program was created to assist low-income first-time homebuyers in purchasing single-family homes by providing funds for downpayment, closing costs and rehabilitation carried out in conjunction with the assisted home purchase
TOP100 Builder list - 08/19/2007
For the first time since 2002, the top three companies on the Builder 100 list traded places. While D.R. Horton remains on top, Lennar Corp. rode a 7,209-unit closings increase to become the new number two, and tightened the gap on the list leader to just 3,842 closings. Pulte Homes shiftd back to third, after its closings declined 9.08 percent, with Centex Corp. and KB Home rounding out the top five.
D.R. Horton, with 53,410 closings, out-performed the entire combined next 100 (numbers 101-200), which closed 44,824 units in 2006. And Horton, the biggest of the big builders, almost surpassed the combined closings for Builder 100 companies ranked 51 through 100, which together closed a total of 54,070 units.
With a tough 2006 in the bag, and a difficult 2007 ahead, the Builder 100 could see some shake ups this year. Merger and acquisition activity has been slow since the summer of 2005, with only Emaar Properties' May 2006 purchase of John Laing Homes as the exception. But with company and land values coming back to earth, merger and acquisition activity could pick up this year, leading to further shifts among the Builder 100. (At press time three large deals were in the works, with several more rumored to follow.) (Builder Magazine)
Wallstreet journal report - 08/19/2007
There are several cities in the country where home values are climbing smartly. Portland (OR), Boise (ID), Seattle (WA), Salt Lake City (UT), Houston (TX), Austin (TX), Charlotte (NC) and Raleigh (NC), are among the cities bucking the national trend. Home appreciation there between the fourth quarters of 2005 and 2006 far exceeded the national average of 5.9 percent, according to the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight. In some markets, like Boise and Seattle, the appreciation jumped well into the double digits.
There's no single secret to these cities' apparent success, but many of them missed the housing boom of the past five years. From 2001 to 2005, annual appreciation in these cities was between two and five percent, far slower than the seven to 12 percent national average, according to the OFHEO. Now they are playing catch-up. Most of the cities also have one or more strong industries to drive their economies - colleges and technology in Raleigh, banks in Charlotte, energy in Houston and aerospace in Seattle. And all have education levels above the national average.
Today's declining prices nationwide are in part the result of an earlier explosion of short-term investors in Florida, California and other booming markets. Recently, both investors and long-term homeowners have been cashing in or cutting losses in formerly hot markets and settling in areas that avoided the boom, such as the Carolinas, parts of Georgia and Tennessee, areas of Texas, the Western mountain states and the Pacific Northwest. (RealEstateJournal.com)
NAR survey - 08/19/2007
Realtors come from varied backgrounds, work mostly on commission and become successful over a period of time, according to a new member survey by the National Association of REALTORS. The typical member is 51 years old, works 40 hours per week and has been in the business for seven years. More than 1.3 million Realtors - about half of all real estate licensees - are characterized in the highly detailed 2007 NAR Member Profile.
Median income was $47,700 in 2006, down from $49,300 in 2004, which had also declined from 2002. Members licensed as brokers earned a median of $73,700 last year, while sales agents earned $34,600. During the last two years, NAR membership increased 23.2 percent. Realtors in the business for two years or less earned a median of $15,300, while those with three to five years of experience earned $44,200. For six to 15 years, the median was $64,600, while members in the business for 16 years or more earned $76,200.
One quarter of all business is from referrals or repeat business from previous clients, ranging from seven percent for newcomers to 41 percent for respondents with at least 16 years of experience. Seven out of 10 are compensated through a split commission arrangement, 17 percent receive a full commission and another three percent receive a commission plus a share of profits.
Thirteen percent of NAR members have been in the business for one year or less, while another 13 percent have been in the business for 26 years or more. Only 10 percent work fewer than 20 hours per week and 30 percent work 20 to 39 hours per week, while 15 percent work at least 60 hours per week. Nearly six in 10 are women, and the typical respondent has been with his/her firm for four years. Five percent are under 30 years of age while another six percent are 30 to 34 years old; 12 percent are 65 or over.
Green Home building - 08/19/2007
Green home building is poised to be the next great sales pitch in America's environmental renaissance. By 2010, half of new homes built are expected to be classified as "green" as more builders try to appeal to consumers worried about global warming, the environment and rising energy costs. Builders say green homes are more durable and tend to sell much faster than traditionally built houses.
But how do you tell if a "green" home is truly green? There are some 80 different local and state green building organizations and at least two different national groups promoting their own rules on what constitutes a green home. The result: a contentious war over whose rules become the national standard for making a house sustainable.
Perhaps the best known group in green building is the U.S. Green Building Council, or USGBC, a non-profit group that developed its own point rating system for green commercial projects and has certified 800 projects as green since 2000 through its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program, or LEED. The organization uses consultants under contract to certify projects according to USGBC rules.
In 2004, the Green Building Council rolled out a pilot program for similar grading of residential projects, and today 350 builders are enrolled for 6,000 green homes to go through LEED certification. To get a home certified as green, builders would have to pay about $2,000 for the required inspection. An official program for green homes should be rolled out this fall.
Meanwhile, the National Association of Home Builders, a trade group with 235,000 corporate members, is at work on its own green building standards. The process has been a long and arduous one, incorporating input from not only builders, but architects, interior designers and construction product manufacturers. The rules, being developed in collaboration with the International Code Council, will be written for accreditation from the American National Standards Institute, or ANSI.
Seniors housing market - 08/19/2007
Opportunities abound for Realtors® who are ready to service the senior market
By Brenda W. Casserly, President & COO, ERA Franchise Systems, Inc.
Realtors® cannot ignore the impact that seniors are having on the business of real estate. Activity in the senior segment of the market is steadily increasing due to demographic shifts that have put a higher concentration of the U.S. population in an older age bracket.
As a real estate professional, there's a lot that I find exciting about the senior market. First of all, it is big, and it is growing. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the number of households in the U.S. headed by someone between the ages of 55 and 64 in the market for a home was about one million in 2001. NAHB projects that figure to grow to approximately 1.2 million households in 2006. One forecast projects the number of baby boomers age 65 and over to increase nearly 80 percent during the next two decades.
Another attribute that distinguishes the senior market is the broad range of motives for buying or selling a home. Many seniors wish to sell their homes because their family has grown and they are now seeking a low-maintenance property that frees them up to enjoy a more leisurely lifestyle. Selling a primary residence or a vacation property may free up equity that can be applied toward retirement. The changing interests and capabilities of seniors also influence the need for proximity to transportation, health services, shopping and other activities.
Success in servicing the wide-ranging needs of senior homebuyers is achieved through the right combination of programs, training and marketing. Sales professionals who have built a strong referral network and practice sound prospecting techniques will have a leg up on capturing these diverse and demanding buyers and sellers. Realtors® who make the effort to secure specialized certification will distinguish themselves as especially qualified to service the needs of seniors.
One characteristic that distinguishes seniors from first-time homebuyers is a lower tolerance for uncertainty. The ERA® system offers the ERA® Sellers Security® Plan (SSP), a program designed expressly for homesellers who seek that extra level of assurance. Simply put, the SSP guarantees that a seller who qualifies for the program will sell their home at a pre-determined price within 180 days of listing, or ERA Real Estate will buy it.
According to the Senior Advantage Real Estate Council, 90 percent of seniors do not put their home on the market until they have settled on their new living arrangements, and Realtors® must be prepared to help seniors select a mortgage that meets their needs. ERA Mortgage offers buyers with unique financing requirements the opportunity to choose from more than 100 different loan products. A professionally staffed Agent Help Desk helps sales associates offer products that best match their clients' financial goals.
Specialized certification programs are another means to assure seniors that Realtors® are capable of serving them. Late last year, ERA Real Estate became the first global real estate franchise to deliver the Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation in a virtual classroom. The course, offered through the Senior Advantage Real Estate Council (SAREC), was developed to educate sales professionals about the special needs and concerns of senior homebuyers and homesellers.
The transition into a senior lifestyle can be an exciting time. For Realtors® who are prepared to assist the growing community of seniors, it can be a rewarding time as well
Preventing Id Theft - 08/19/2007
Could This Be Your Story?
When Janet Romano opened her credit card bill, she got more than she bargained for.
"I'm diligent about matching up my receipts to my bill," Romano said. (We've changed her name to protect her privacy.) "Several of the charges were mysteries to me."
A call to her credit card company began a months-long effort to recover from identity theft and credit card fraud. First, Romano found thousands of dollars in fraudulent charges on her credit card bills. She disputed each charge but the finance charges kept growing. She even found a purchase of an Internet domain name on her bill. That domain name created a Web site that scammed people out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
"Some people using the scam site knew how to look up the name of the site owner. A public directory listed my name and phone number. I actually got messages on my voice mail threatening to break my legs," said Romano.
Romano thinks that identity thieves got her information when she replied to an email asking her to refresh her email account information. It looked like a real request-so real that even a cautious consumer like Romano replied with her personal and financial information. Such email tactics are called "phishing."
Identity Theft is Growing
Unfortunately, phishing is a growing way to steal someone's identity. And it's only one way. Identity thieves can take your personal information from your mail box or your home. They can steal your wallet or purse, or convince you to give out personal information. We all have to be on our guard.
Identity theft is the fastest growing white-collar crime. It happens when an identity thief obtains some pieces of your personal information. The thief then uses the information about you-without your knowledge-to commit fraud or theft. The identity thief is disguised as you. The trail leads back to you.
You Can Act Against Identity Theft
In this course you will learn more about how identity theft happens. You'll see how thieves get and use your information. Then, you can take steps to be on your guard, so that what happened to Ms. Romano won't happen to you. As with any crime, you cannot completely control whether you will become a victim. But you can minimize your risk. You can be alert to how the crime happens. And you can manage your personal information cautiously.
In this course, you will:
Know what identity theft is
Do a wallet check to protect yourself from identity theft
Take steps to protect yourself from identity theft in your home and on the road
Recognize early warnings of identity theft
Take the first steps if you're a victim of identity theft
Have the numbers to call to get help or more information
Let's get started.
Technical Requirements
To appreciate this seminar experience, it is critical that you have the appropriate software, plug-ins, and network connections. Please take the time to download the latest versions of the plug-ins mentioned below if you do not already have them.
Browser: Internet Explorer 6 and higher, Netscape 7.2 and higher or equivalent browser. Your browser must be JavaScript-enabled and must be set to accept cookies.
Network Connection: The recommended minimum connection is 56Kbps. A faster connection is encouraged to take better advantage of the media elements in the seminar.
Contributors
AARP Consumer Protection Team
This seminar is brought to you by the AARP Consumer Protection Team, which provides tools and education to help consumers protect themselves from financial fraud, abusive practices and other risks to their savings and assets. To support this goal, AARP is 1) developing a wide variety of print resources and messages; 2) partnering with other organizations that share this interest; and 3) advocating for federal and state requirements that protect consumers from identity theft.
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. We produce AARP The Magazine, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, our monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, our bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, our quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and our website, http://www.aarp.org . AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Copyright 2005, AARP.
ERA Mortgage - 08/19/2007
Tailor-made Mortgages
It's true what they say - no two customers are alike. That's why we cater to each customer's unique financial situation. By offering over 150 different mortgage products, ERA Mortgage can meet the diverse requirements of all of your customers. And, if any of our programs fall short of your customers' requirements, just let us know. We'll work to create a custom mortgage product just for them.
Tools of the Trade
ERA Mortgage leads the industry in the application of technology to the loan origination process. Access to information is key to providing superior service, and we continue to invest in state-of-the-art technology to improve the speed and quality of communication.
MortgageLoanStatus.com provides everything your customers need to track the progress of their loan before closing, and Mortgagequestions.com gives your customers access to a wealth of after-the-sale support. Both Web sites are available 24/7.
* Mortgage loans are subject to qualification, receipt of satisfactory appraisal and verification of income, asset and debt information provided by the costumer.
ERA Mortgage information - 08/19/2007
Special Financing Program from ERA Mortgage
Interest rate buydown program benefits seller, and buyers
Our Special Financing Program differentiates your seller's home in this competitive market and provides lower monthly payments for the buyer. This means a larger pool of buyers for listings, which can ultimately help sell homes faster.
To learn more about our Special Financing Program, click answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the ERA Mortgage Special Financing Program! You can also read the ERA MortgageMatters article or contact your ERA Mortgage Advisor.
Now Available: Special Financing Ads on the Mortgage Resource Center
Seller security plan benefits - 08/19/2007
Program Benefits
The Sellers Security® Plan Slogan "We Will Sell Your House, Or ERA Will Buy It!"® drives inquiries and interest. Often underlying that consumer question... "What's this deal about ERA buying my house?"... is skepticism and doubt.
What are the benefits to a Seller?
There are three unique core benefits of the SSP.
Non-contingency status: Sellers that need to purchase another home but can't because their current home is not sold find this program of great value. The plan provides a guaranteed sale and closing date resulting in increased buying power.
Increases the number of buyers for their home: when a Seller lists with ERA®, prospective buyers can often times take advantage of the SSP in order to sell their house to purchase that ERA® listing. In essence, we increase the pool of buyers for all our listings, especially a home that will attract a move-up buyer. This benefit is another reason to list with ERA® regardless of Seller's interest in the SSP.
A multitude of options: If in the event a Seller needs a contract quicker than one can be market generated, by listing with ERA® a contract can be forthcoming to enable their next home purchase. And if in the event our optimism about their home selling is wrong due to economic conditions outside our control, by listing with ERA® they have the option at any time to proceed with our guaranteed sale program.
Seller security plan - 08/19/2007
Let's Go Shopping!"
Most other real estate companies can only sell their listings to a cash buyer or a homeowner whose current home is sold and ready to close. You have access to those buyers and more! There are potential buyers for your listings that own a house that would like to buy another but can't because they need to sell their current house first. In addition the down payment for this purchase is often tied up in their current home.
By listing with ERA®, the SSP enables you to turn prospective buyers into qualified buyers for Sellers homes. I have a marketing program that exposes a your house to more buyers netting you more money.
The "Let's Go Shopping!" campaign supports creating buyers for listings.
The newly designed "Let's Go Shopping!" tagline adds another dimension to the exclusive ERA® Sellers Security® Plan program. Once you have listed a home it's time to go shopping. Call or email me for more details.
Seller security plan - 08/19/2007
Let's Go Shopping!"
Most other real estate companies can only sell their listings to a cash buyer or a homeowner whose current home is sold and ready to close. You have access to those buyers and more! There are potential buyers for your listings that own a house that would like to buy another but can't because they need to sell their current house first. In addition the down payment for this purchase is often tied up in their current home.
By listing with ERA®, the SSP enables you to turn prospective buyers into qualified buyers for Sellers homes. I have a marketing program that exposes a your house to more buyers netting you more money.
The "Let's Go Shopping!" campaign supports creating buyers for listings.
The newly designed "Let's Go Shopping!" tagline adds another dimension to the exclusive ERA® Sellers Security® Plan program. Once you have listed a home it's time to go shopping. Call or email me for more details.
ERA Homeprotection plan - 08/19/2007
ERA Home Protection Plan®
Comprehensive, Insured
Program Overview:
The ERA Home Protection Plan is a fully insured home warranty administered by American Home Shield.
With the ERA Home Protection Plan, you can increase your chances of selling your home faster and for more money, or can enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your new home comes with a home warranty for a full year. The plan covers repair and replacement costs on most major home systems and built-in appliances, including heating and cooling systems, duct work, electrical and plumbing systems, water heaters and much more. If a problem does arise, service is always just a phone call away. See the "Escalation Communications Process" should you need to report or follow up on an issue. Call or email me today for a free home warranty information package.
ERA Answers - 08/19/2007
ERA Answers
We know that ERA® professionals are totally committed to providing whatever it takes to help their customers through the home buying or selling process. ERA Answers is part of that ERA® commitment.
The ERA Answers Book addresses nearly 100 of the questions on real estate customers' minds. It's handled in a clear and comforting way, helping you to see that an ERA Affiliate is the "answer" to buying or selling. The ANSWERS Book is intended to see ERA as the real estate expert and the most logical company to turn to for any potential buying or selling. Call me today for a free answers book.
The power of single homeownership - 08/19/2007
The Power of One: Singles Opt for the Advantages of Homeownership
By Brenda W. Casserly, President & COO, ERA Franchise Systems, Inc.
It may surprise you to learn that a recent study completed by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University cited single-person households as one of the fastest growing housing markets in the country. In fact, nearly 5 million one-person households will be added in the coming decade.
As real estate professionals, we must stay aware of emerging trends to best understand the unique lifestyles of our clients. To understand the motivations of single home buyers, we should first look at the experiences, wants and needs that shape their home buying decisions and review some of the leading factors behind this growing trend.
According to the 2002 Census Report, between 1975 and 2002, the share of Americans who had never married increased from about 24% to 29%. Currently, about half of all adults are unmarried, and a single person living alone occupies one in four households. These figures are a sign of the times. Unlike days past, many people today have embraced a single life.
Changing societal norms and expectations, improved personal wealth, increasing rates of higher education, and even longer life expectancies for women, have all contributed to the rise in single-person households. So what are the changing norms and demographics that have positioned this customer base to drive a significant portion of the housing market?
Obviously, changing marriage trends and expectations are a leading factor in the increase in single-person households. Although between 80 and 90% of Americans will get married during their lifetimes, rises in personal wealth, length of education and changing attitudes regarding gender roles have resulted in both men and women delaying marriage until later in life. For example, one out of three men and more than one out of four women in their early 30s were unmarried in 1997, compared with fewer than one in 10 in 1900. Coupled with a divorce rate hovering around 50%, many single persons have grown accustomed to their lifestyle. They have the financial stability to live where they want and do not have immediate plans to marry (or remarry).
Perhaps of greatest interest, women actually make up a large portion of single home ownership. Their role in the housing market is expected to continue to accelerate as women's success in the workplace continues to expand and personal income disparities continue to narrow. An article in Business Week Online in June of this year reported that on average, women ages 25 to 34 earned 82% as much as men in 2000, as compared to only 68% in 1975. As this trend continues, expect to see even more financially independent women become home buyers.
Now that you have a better understanding of the characteristics and motivations of this emerging customer base, what are some factors real estate sales professionals need to remember to help these clients as they look to purchase a home? With only one set of hands at home instead of two or more, some singles opt for homes with lower maintenance features; including vinyl siding, brick, and vinyl windows to decrease the time devoted to maintenance. Others chose condos or town homes where exterior maintenance, landscaping, and snow removal are all handled by the homeowner's association for a monthly fee. In addition, some look for a tight-knit community that may be conveyed by having neighbors close at hand.
For seniors who are single, many choose to move to active adult communities that are specially equipped to provide wonderful amenities for a lifestyle of one including golf courses, pools, and recreation centers. Other seniors consider proximity to cultural centers, medical facilities, public transportation or family when buying a home.
Another factor sales associates should encourage single home buyers to consider is their future needs as well as the future resale value of a property. While a one-bedroom townhouse may be enough room now, it would not be if the buyer planned on marrying or having children in the near future. And while a single person may not mind having one bathroom, it could be a major detraction for a future prospective buyer looking at the house down the road. If they can afford it, buying slightly more house than they anticipate needing could very well be a wise investment decision for single home buyers.
As with any unique home buyer, taking a few extra minutes with a prospective single client can help you to learn about their current living situation, as well as their future plans. This will allow you to create a customized plan, specific to their needs and set the tone for a successful business relationship.
Okaloosa County Website updates - 08/19/2007
Local History Alive at Heritage Museum:
The Lumber Industry Display at the Heritage Museum in Val-P.
Depression Era Glass on Display:
Sharon Cabbage Rose Design is currently on Display at Niceville Library, a member of the Okaloosa Co. Public Library Cooperative.
Beach Safety:
Spent 3 days in training for Heavy Surf Jet Ski Rescue.
Beach Accesses Re-open!:
Public Works has restored #1, 2, 3 & 7 for beach access.
Niceville Library Adds New Wing:
Niceville Chamber and Okaloosa Co. Co-op Library Committee cut ribbon for new wing.
Marler Park Ribbon Cutting:
Newly Renovated Marler Park Opens to the Public.
See what's scheduled by Okaloosa Transit. Visit www.rideoct.org.
Newly installed covered bus shelters for the WAVE public transportation system.
Airport Art Exhibit:
Visitors to the Okaloosa Regional Airport Enjoy the facility's new art exhibition
Walton County upcoming events - 08/19/2007
Walton County Local Mitigation Strategy Group Meeting
Freeport Old Post Office, SR 20 at Kylea Laird Drive, Freeport
Janice Floyd, LMS Group Secretary, 267-1955
This group meets as part of a voluntary program initiated by the Florida Department of Community Affairs to help local governments develop strategies to reduce or eliminate risks to people and property from natural and man-made hazards.
THIS GROUP IS NOT INVOLVED WITH WETLANDS MITIGATION FOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS. Walton County, its municipalities, and other entities participate in this program as an
opportunity to save lives and protect economic and environmental resources from future disasters. Grants are often available from the state for local jurisdictions that have a Local Mitigation Strategy in place.
The public is invited to attend and participate in these meetings.
Coastal Dune Lake Advisory Board
Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach Ann Haigh, Planning and Development Division,
267-1955.
The regular meeting will be from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. followed by a workshop from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon.
3:00 PM Okaloosa-Walton Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) Niceville Community Center, 204 N. Partin Drive, Niceville
Ellie Roberts, WFRPC Transportation Staff, (800) 226-8914 Ext. 218
Commissioners Brannon, Comander, and Meadows, and DeFuniak Springs Council Member Roy McLeod are members of this Board.
The TPO has three advisory committees: the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), the Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC), and the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC). The advisory committees also meet on the third Thursday of each month. The CAC meets at 9:30 a.m., the BPAC at 11:30, and the TCC at 1:30 p.m.
See agenda for this meeting at: http://www.wfrpc.dst.fl.us/owtpo/agenda.htm.
6:00 PM Code Enforcement Board
Walton County Courthouse, 571 E. Nelson Avenue, DeFuniak Springs
Sherrie Griggs, Code Enforcement Secretary, 622-0564
Normal monthly meeting.
ERA Real Estate - 08/19/2007
Advertising & Promotions
Great customer service means taking care of the little things.
At ERA Real Estate, we understand that when it comes to buying or selling a home, taking care of the little things can make a very big difference. That's why our national advertising campaign showcases our commitment to customer service and our focus on the details. Review the different components below that promote the message of the ERA brand both nationally and locally.
J.D. Power Award Guidelines
Consumer Confidence Campaign
ERA On-Line Advertiser
Print Advertising
TV Advertising
Radio Advertising
Internet Advertising
RealEstateJournal.com Web Advertising
ERA Vehicle Marketing Program
ERA Answers
Crestview Florida home for sale - 08/19/2007
Detached Single Family
MLS#: 461602 OfficeFile#: 29850 ListPrice: $230,000
Status: Active ApproxSF: 2,573 BG:
Address: 121 Villacrest Drive $/Sqft: $89.38
CRESTVIEW, FL Bedrooms: 4
Zip: 32536 Baths Full/Half: 3/
County: OKALOOSA Stories: 1
MainArea: 25 Crestview Area YearBuilt: 2004
SubArea: 02 CRESTVIEW SOUTHWEST OccStat: Occupied
Subdiv: COUNTRYVIEW ESTATES 10TH ADDN ImmOcc? Y
ParcelID: 31-23-3N-056R-0000-0040 ConstrStat: ConstrCmplt
ElemSch: ANTIOCH Middle: DAVIDSON High: CRESTVIEW
Dir: From Hwy 85 & I-10 go south to P.J. Adams take a right to Villacrest. Follow to # 121 Villacrest on your right.
Legal: LOT 4 COUNTRYVIEW ESTATES 10TH ADDITION
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you're looking for a lot of house, look no further. 4 bedroom, 2 bath, south of I-10 2573 sq.ft. You can easily commute from this desireable location. This open floorplan is perfect for the growing family. Countryview sudvision located in Crestview Floirda.
ERA and MDA team up - 08/19/2007
ERA Real Estate and the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) have created the Home Grown Hero program, a new online fundraiser that makes it easier than ever for you to help support this worthy cause. The Home Grown Hero program gives all ERA® members the opportunity to participate in the network's fundraising activities for MDA on an individual basis. By creating your own Home Grown Hero profile you can send customized e-mails to your clients, business associates, family and friends to collect and track donations online using MDA's secure Web site.
Using this program provides many rewards, not the least of which is the personal satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to "Home In On A Cure" for neuromuscular diseases. In addition, ERA members who collect a minimum of $1,000 for MDA during the course of the year through the Home Grown Hero Web-based program will earn the ERA/MDA Home Grown Hero designation and will receive:
An ERA/MDA Home Grown Hero Award certificate
Commemorative ERA/MDA Home Grown Hero pin
Special recognition on TeamERA.com and in TeamERA magazine
Invitation to the MDA Awards Reception at the ERA International Business Conference
In addition to the recognition you'll receive from family and friends will admire your efforts to give back to the community.
Okaloosa County Transit Website for Northwest Florida area - 08/19/2007
Visit the Okaloosa County Transit Website: www.RideOCT.org
Whether you are commuting, shopping, or just visiting, let OCT get you where you're going. When you use public transit, you help our community and the environment by easing traffic congestion and reducing harmful emissions.
Summer
Memorial Day through Labor Day
Monday - Saturday 8:00am to 7:00pm
Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day
*Shuttles Arrive at designated stops every 20 minutes.
Winter
September through May
*Shuttles Arrive at designated stops every 45 minutes
Monday - Saturday 8:00am to 7:00pm
ERA wins 3 years in a row - 08/19/2007
ERA REAL ESTATE RECOGNIZED BY J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES FOR THIRD YEAR IN A ROW
PARSIPPANY, N.J., - ERA Real Estate announced it is the recipient of the 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For Repeat Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms." This marks the third year in a row that ERA Real Estate has received an award from this prestigious organization.
Last year, the company was the recipient of the 2005 J.D. Power and Associates Award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For First Time Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms." In 2004, ERA Real Estate received the award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For First Time Home Buyers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms."
"Being recognized for customer satisfaction once again by a well-respected organization such as J.D. Power and Associates is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our sales associates and brokers," said Brenda W. Casserly, president and CEO for ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. "This award is a reflection of our promise to our customers to be 'Always There For You' throughout the homebuying and selling process."
ERA Real Estate's host of products, services and materials dedicated to meeting the unique needs of sellers contributed to its award-winning satisfaction ratings. A customer favorite is the ERA Sellers Security® Plan, a unique, guaranteed sale program that offers sellers the freedom to close on their next home, even if their current home has yet to sell.
About the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction StudySM.
ERA received the highest numerical score among national full service real estate firms for repeat home sellers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction StudySM. Study based on 3,709 total responses measuring real estate firms and measures opinions of homebuyers and sellers. Study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in April through May 2006. Your experiences may vary. Study conducted for Realogy Corporation by J.D. Power and Associates.
About ERA Franchise Systems, Inc.
About ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. ERA Real Estate was recently named the recipient of the prestigious 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For Repeat Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms." The ERA® network includes more than 38,700 brokers and sales associates and nearly 3,000 offices throughout the United States and 29 other countries and territories. Each office is independently owned and operated except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated. ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation (NYSE: H), the world's largest real estate franchisor. ERA® information is available to consumers at ERA.com.
ERA welcomes new affiliate companies - 08/19/2007
ERA REAL ESTATE WELCOMES 18 NEW AFFILIATE COMPANIES TO ITS GLOBAL NETWORK
Network strengthens its presence in California with the addition of 9 new affiliate companies and 14 new offices in total
PARSIPPANY, N.J., - ERA Real Estate announced that it has grown its global franchise network with the addition of 18 new companies during July and August 2006. In addition, 10 existing ERA® affiliate companies expanded their presence through new office openings or mergers/acquisitions during the same period.
ERA Real Estate continues to strengthen its position in California, with the Golden State accounting for the largest area of growth within the ERA network with nine new franchised brokerage companies and four existing affiliates combining to open 14 new ERA offices. Year to date, ERA Real Estate has added nearly 70 companies and 130 offices to its global real estate network. The ERA network now has nearly 3,000 offices and more than 38,700 sales associates and brokers throughout the United States and 29 other countries and territories.
"ERA Real Estate continues to expand our global network of dedicated brokers and sales associates through both external and organic growth," said Brenda W. Casserly, president and chief executive officer for ERA Real Estate. "During the past two months, we have increased our footprint in a number of key regions, led by our growth within California."
New Company Affiliations
Listed below are real estate companies that affiliated with ERA Real Estate during July - August 2006:
Company Office(s) State
ERA Consolidated Realty Group Simi Valley CA
ERA Elite Elk Grove CA
ERA Gold Key Highland CA
ERA Home Professionals Daly City CA
ERA Platinum Properties Walnut Creek CA
ERA Promerica Realtors Santa Ana CA
ERA Rocklin Real Estate Rocklin CA
ERA Showcase Real Estate Yuba City CA
ERA South Coast Realty Orange CA
ERA Southern Exposure Realty Jupiter FL
ERA Ammons Realty Samford NC
ERA Compass Real Estate Barnegat NJ
ERA 1st Independent Realty Newburgh NY
ERA Glad Realty Services Uniondale NY
ERA Anderson and Associates Real Estate Stroudsburg PA
ERA Ritter Real Estate Smyrna TN
ERA Legends Realty San Antonio TX
ERA Terry Harper Real Estate Forney TX
Expanded Operations
Listed below are existing ERA affiliate companies that expanded their operations through mergers and acquisitions or by opening new branch offices during July - August 2006:
Company Office(s) State
ERA Home Traditions Real Estate Fairfield CA
ERA Dream Team Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe CA
ERA Shields Real Estate Colorado Springs CO
ERA Tides Realty Group Mt. Pleasant SC
ERA Faust Realty Group Lehigh Acres FL
ERA Pacesetters Partners Murfreesboro TN
ERA Preferred Properties Sacramento CA
ERA Caporale Realty, Inc. Chicago IL
ERA American Dream Chino CA
ERA Real Estate First Grove City OH
About ERA Franchise Systems, Inc.
About ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. ERA Real Estate was recently named the recipient of the prestigious 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For Repeat Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms." The ERA® network includes more than 38,700 brokers and sales associates and nearly 3,000 offices throughout the United States and 29 other countries and territories. Each office is independently owned and operated except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated. ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation (NYSE: H), the world's largest real estate franchisor. ERA® information is available to consumers at ERA
Crestview History located in Okaloosa County in Northwest Florida - 08/19/2007
The City of Crestview received its charter from the Florida Legislature and was officially incorporated in 1916. Crestview's name was chosen because it is located on the peak of a long woodland range between the Yellow and Shoal rivers, which flow almost parallel on the east and west side of the city. After Okaloosa County was formed by the State Legislature in 1915, from portions of western Walton County and eastern Santa Rosa County, Crestview became the County Seat in 1917 and remains so today.
With a population of more than 17,000 citizens, Crestview is located at the junction of three major highways; U.S. 90, State Road 85, and Interstate Highway 10, which resulted in its acclaimed designation as the "Hub City" of northwest Florida. The City is 50 miles east of Pensacola, 120 miles west of Tallahassee, and 30 miles inland from the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. Crestview's elevation of 235 feet above sea level places it as one of the highest points in the state. It receives 65 inches of rainfall annually...the most in the State of Florida. Also, the city was designated as a main street city in 1997 by the Florida Department of State.
The CSX, Inc. Railroad runs through Crestview. Parallel with this railroad is the Old Spanish Trail which extends from Jacksonville west to El Paso, Texas, thus being one of the great truck lines of the country and rich in tradition and history of the Indian, French, Spanish and English settlers in this nation.
If one should wonder what has happened to make Crestview the thriving, friendly, fast growing city we know today, it might be said that it was a fabled fountain of gold or silver. In actuality, it was the dreams and visions of the staunch and sturdy few who were living here in 1915. These early residents realized the natural advantages offered at this particular site for the building of a city and they set out to provide the foundation for such an undertaking.
The City of Crestview formally adopted the Community Redevelopment Agency Concept in 1995 for the expressed purpose of development and redevelopment within the Community Redevelopment area, which encompasses all of the downtown area. This organization adopted a Community Redevelopment Plan, which was sanctioned by the Florida Department of Community Affairs.
In 1997, the City applied, and was approved, for a Main Street program designation by the Secretary of State. This program is embraced nationwide and encompasses the tasks of scheduling and promotion of events such as block parties, downtown days, street festivals, parades, sidewalk sales and cultural events to cultivate and enhance downtown redevelopment.
In 1998, the City hired a full time Director and assisted in the establishment of the Crestview Main Street Association, Inc., whose membership consists of business owners, citizens and other interested parties desiring to revitalize the downtown area. Today, the organization boasts 90 members who are pledged to support the City in their development efforts.
Starting in 1996, the City began a three-phase development effort to construct a major streetscape project in the CRA area. All three phases were earmarked for the restoration of Main Street to the tune of $3.7 million, funded by Tax Increment Financing Funds, grants and general funds.
In 2001, the City Council designated a Historic Preservation District and applied for a grant funding to research and document the histories for 200 structures within the CRA area and district. The survey entailed having all structures surveyed, evaluated, and documented with their histories, qualifying them for a State or National historical significance designation. Properties classified on State or National Registries may seek grant funding for historical restoration as part of the redevelopment efforts.
The Okaloosa County Veterans Memorial, Inc., an organization established to honor deceased veterans during wartime, a War Memorial adjacent to the County Courthouse was dedicated in March 2003. Meanwhile, business owners and merchants are busy restoring commercial properties to meet the new Florida Building Code. A new zoning code is being formulated to focus on downtown properties to compliment historic preservation efforts underway.
Here in Crestview you will find an assortment of comfortable homes, churches, schools, recreational facilities, businesses, and industries all working together as a happy, growing city. The health, fire, and police departments, under a stable and prosperous city government working to make this city a wonderful place to live, protect all these things while the related services of the city ensure we uphold our commitment to provide services second to none.
History of Niceville in Northwest Florida Okaloosa County - 08/19/2007
Evidence shows that perhaps up to 10,000 years ago Native Americans were living in the area now occupied by the City of Niceville. A number of projectile points have been found and burial mounds dot the area offering mute proof of times long past. Conflict arose between these native populations and the European explorers who began arriving in the area around 1500-1700. This was a time of proud Native Americans, conquering Spanish conquistadors, and thieving pirates.
By the early 1800s the new American government had settled in, and established its own systems of politics, religion, and trade, much the same way the Native Americans had done centuries earlier. During these times the fishing industry thrived on mullet caught in the sandy-bottomed bays of the area. One such bay was called Boggy Bayou, named for a great deposit of peat discovered at the mouth of Juniper Creek. It wasn't long before a tiny fishing village was established along the shores of the bay. The village, named Boggy after the bayou itself, was the starting point for what would later become Niceville.
In 1842 a cattleman from Louisiana named Jessie Rogers drove his herds to the head of Boggy Bayou and settled in the area. Permanent settlement began as the Civil War ended, and the war's victims left their devastated homes behind to find a new life. Boggy provided them with abundant sunshine, waterway transportation and inexpensive tracts of land. It was around this same time that a legislative act established two counties in the area, Santa Rosa, and Walton. It was from these two counties that the county of Okaloosa, in which modern day Niceville is located, would be created in 1915.
The settlement continued to grow when a gristmill was established by John Nathey and his father, to serve the increasing number of farms in the area. Part of that mill still stands on what is now the Eglin AFB golf course. A general store and a sawmill further improved upon the primitive conditions the homesteaders endured, and a number of turpentine distilleries began operating in the area. As trade began to expand beyond the local community, the need for a postal service was realized. Dr. James C. White was named the first postmaster, and on August 17, 1893 the U.S. Postal Service officially recognized the city of Boggy. A few years later the residents decided that 'Boggy' was an unflattering name to represent a respected and growing community, so on November 5, 1910 the city was renamed 'Niceville.' Some residents still were not happy with the name, and on May 24, 1919 the city was again renamed, this time to 'Valparaiso' which is Spanish for 'Vale of Paradise.' One mile from the town, another community was developing, and it was dubbed 'New Valparaiso.' This created confusion among the residents of the two towns, and all but halted the mail delivery. After much discussion the town's name was changed back to Niceville on November 1, 1925 and it has held the name ever since.
Over the next decade Niceville continued to develop their small, thriving community. Some type of local government was needed to represent the interests of its citizens. On July 7, 1938 a mass meeting of the qualified voters was held to organize a municipal government and to elect officers. They decided to incorporate the city using its official name of Niceville. The bounds of the territory limits were decided on, and a circular disk with the inscription 'City of Niceville, Florida' was selected as the seal. Two petitions were drawn up, one opposing the proposed incorporation, and the other in agreement with the proposal. Of the 329 registered voters who took part, only four opposed the incorporation. The chairman declared the name duly selected, the seal duly adopted, and the territory limits definitely designated by metes and bounds. J. M. Reynolds was elected the first mayor of the City of Niceville on July 15, 1938 and J. W. Windham was elected the first clerk. C. G. Meigs, Wallace Spence, Herman Anderson, Thomas Powell, and G. B. Anchors were the first five councilmen. Hughey Holmes was elected Marshall of the city.
The first recorded school in Niceville was constructed in 1922. Two other schools, established in the 1920's close to the site of the present Edge Elementary, were demolished, the first by fire and then in 1936 its replacement by a hurricane. Classes were conducted in various locations such as the present-day Valparaiso Community Center and a dance hall on Howell Hill until 1938, when the school was again rebuilt. This school, constructed by the Works Progress Administration, consisted of only the front section of the present Edge Elementary School building. The auditorium and additional wings were erected later.
In the spring of 1963, a high school was established in the City of Niceville. Prior to this time, high school age Niceville students attended Choctawhatchee High School with other students in the area. The first class of seniors graduated in the spring of 1966. One year later, the new Niceville Senior High School was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Over the next few years the school was expanded to include a gymnasium, an auditorium, a band room, a wing of classrooms and an industrial arts building. Another wing has been constructed that will house science labs, a home economics suite, general purpose classrooms and administrative offices.
Today the municipality of Niceville remains a small, close-knit community of just under 20,000 with ever increasing public services. The population is served by one high school, a middle school, two elementary schools, a private center of education and a community college
History of Fort Walton Beach in Northwest Florida - 08/19/2007
From a population of 90 in 1940 to over 175,000 in 2002, the Greater Fort Walton Beach area has enjoyed growth in many areas. Undiscovered for many years, the area abounds with both large and small businesses, beautiful residential neighborhoods, sophisticated condominium complexes, an active industrial park engaged in light, clean industry, and many opportunities for outdoor sports and activities. A civic auditorium, council chambers, library complex, and attractive parks give the city its core of activity. Fort Walton Beach has an unusual number of fine restaurants and entertainment facilities. A top rated educational system provides students with the opportunity of a kindergarten through graduate school education. The city has many churches of every denomination as well as numerous clubs and civic organizations. Situated on the beautiful white sands of the Emerald Coast on the Gulf of Mexico, Fort Walton Beach draws from a business area of more than 177,000 people.
Many factors go into making Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa County the vibrant area it is today. However, there are five important areas that stand out: the military impact in the community, the high tech industry located here, the abundant educational opportunities, the cost of living and the life-style advantages. Browse through the community section to see things that make the Fort Walton Beach area such an attractive place to work, live and play.
Fort Walton Beach is rapidly earning the reputation as the "Technology Coast." Dozens of small and mid-size companies designing and manufacturing a vast assortment of products for military/industrial use have chosen our area as their home. These businesses often keep a low public profile due to their military and defense connections, but their impact on Fort Walton Beach is great. Their presence means an influx of professionals who are highly skilled, highly educated and highly paid. As the "Technology Coast" grows - and by all indications it will do so by leaps and bounds - so will the Fort Walton Beach metro area.
History of Destin Florida located in Okaloosa County in Northwest Florida - 08/19/2007
Located in the Florida Panhandle, the City of Destin has a rich historical heritage dating back to American Indian inhabitants as early as the 7th century A.D. Spanish explorers surveyed Florida in 1538. Don Francisco Tapia was commissioned to survey the Florida coast and in 1693, drew the first known map of East Pass and its shores. Destin traces its immediate history to a fisherman, Captain Leonard Destin, who moved here from New London, Connecticut, and settled in Northwest Florida in about 1845. Captain Destin pioneered the fishing industry and Destin has maintained this heritage to the present.
With the growth and development of Destin from a small fishing village to a major tourist resort came the need for a local government structure. The City of Destin was originally chartered as a municipality under the laws of the State of Florida in 1984. However, the community of Destin, in existence for more than one hundred and fifty years, has a long history as a fishing village and premier resort destination.
Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village", the largest and most elaborately equipped fishing fleet in the State of Florida docks at the Destin Harbor. In addition to fishing, recreational opportunities include golf, tennis and watersports, including diving and snorkeling. The 100 Fathom curve draws closer to Destin than any other spot in Florida providing the speediest deep-water access on the Gulf. The City of Destin is home to 11,119 full-time residents (2000 US Census).
Baker Florida located in Okaloosa County Northwest Florida - 08/19/2007
About Baker
Baker
Electricity/Gas
CHELCO Electric
1-800-342-0990
Gulf Power
1-800-225-5797
Okaloosa Gas
(850) 729-4700
Baker
Water/Sewer
Holt Water Systems
(850) 537-4113
Okaloosa County Water and Sewer
(850) 651-7171
City of Crestview
(850) 682-6131
Auburn Water Systems, Inc.
(850) 682-1258
Baker
Garbage
Waste Management
(850) 862-7141
Baker
Telephone
Sprint
1-800-SPRINT1
BellSouth
1-888-757-6500
AT&T
1-800-222-0300
Baker
Satellite/Cable
Cox Communications
(850) 682-5131
DISH Network
Ask me about a gift card for free installation!
DirecTV
1-800-347-3288
Baker
Miscellaneous
Department of Motor Vehicles
106 Hollywood Blvd. SW
Fort Walton Beach, FL
(850) 833-9122
(850) 833-9123 - appointments
Northwest Florida Commercial property located in Crestview Florida - 08/19/2007
Commercial Crestview Florida Fast growing area over an acre Corner lot ListPrice: $230,000
These four lots, all adjacent and totaling 1.13 acres, are on the west side of Bay street between Blakely Ave and Springhill Court. The three other Parcel IDs are 20-3n-23-0000-0043-0000, 20-3n-23-0000-0045-0000, and 20-3n-23-0000-0050-0000. Located in an area with lots of building activity. Convenient to Main Street Crestview and Hwy 85
Northwest Florida vacation spots located in Okaloosa County Florida - 08/19/2007
Okaloosa Florida Enjoy all Okaloosa vacation spots
River Parks
Guest Lake Park Boat Ramp 3850 Yellow River Log Lake Road, Holt
Milligan / Yellow River Park 5100 Ellis Road, Baker
Oak Grove River Park 2751 Hwy 2, Laurel Hill
Shoal River Wayside Park (Bill Duggan Jr. Park) 5999 Hwy 85 S, Crestview
Cotton Bridge Park - 6301 Hwy 4 W, Baker
Beach Parks
James Lee Park 3510 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin
John Beasley Park 1550 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach
Newman C. Brackin Wayside Park 1460 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach
Bayou Parks
Longwood Park - 4 Bay Street, Shalimar
Meigs Park - 45A Meigs Drive, Shalimar
Boat Ramps
Bryant Bridge Boat Ramp 100 Bryant Bridge Road, Holt
Pocahontas Boat Ramp 565A Pocahontas Drive, Fort Walton Beach
Ray Lynn Barnes Boat Ramp 3390 Hwy 90 E, Crestview
Rickey Avenue Boat Ramp 165 Rickey Avenue, Fort Walton Beach
Swift Bayou Boat Ramp 213 Edrehi Avenue, Niceville
Neighborhood Parks
Colonel Bud Day Park 185 Woodland Park Circle, Mary Esther
Eagle Park 2980 James Lee Blvd E (Hwy 90 E), Crestview
Lang Road Park 304 Priscilla Drive, Fort Walton Beach
Leo Norred Park 48 Poplar Avenue, Shalimar
Little Marler Park 1247 Siebert Drive, Fort Walton Beach
Seminole Park - 1534 Cat-Mar Street, Niceville
Sylvania Heights Playground - 311 Shirley Drive, Fort Walton Beach
Beach Access ways
Beach Access #1, Blue Dolphin Beachwalk - 372 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Beach Access #2, Emerald View Beachwalk - 399 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Beach Access #3, Seashore Beachwalk - 530 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Beach Access #4 - 600 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Beach Access #5 - 700 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Beach Access #6, Doris Jordan Freeway Beachwalk - 820 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Beach Access #7, Emerald Promenade Beachwalk - 900 Santa Rosa Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach
Special Use Parks
Baker Block Museum - 1307 Georgia Avenue, Baker
Baker Park - 1450 Charlie Day Road, Baker
Baker Recreation Area - 5503 Hwy 4, Baker
Blackman Community Center - 7590 Hwy 189 N, Blackman
Garden City Park - 6330 Garden City Road, Crestview
Okaloosa Island Boat Basin - 410A Cobia Avenue, Fort Walton Beach
Okaloosa Island Fishing Pier - 300 Pier Road, Fort Walton Beach
Shalimar / Port Dixie Little League Ball Park - 75 4th Avenue, Shalimar
Shalimar Elementary Park - 1340 Joe Martin Circle, Shalimar
10 Acres Northwest Florida land located in Crestview Florida - 08/19/2007
10 Acres of your own private getaway! From the entrance by the road, down a winding tree-lined driveway...enjoy the wrap around drive for easy entrance and exit. Close to town yet secluded; surrounded only by 10 acre lots, in this subdivision you have plenty of privacy, yet this 10 acres sits less than 5 minutes from the I-10 285 exit. This piece of real estate is perfect for the family that loves the outdoors. Relax and feel the country on your front deck, or come inside and enjoy the cozy fireplace. This home has recent updates including new dishwasher, new stove, and a 2-year old well. New vinyl skirting, new vinyl siding and new vinyl flooring; new carpet as well high-speed DSL availability. Come by and take a look today! Watch the Virtual Tour now available. Listing Broker/Salesperson has ownership interest in the property.
Land in Northwest Florida located in Crestview Florida - 08/19/2007
LOT 29 FALCON WAY CRESTVIEW, FL 32539 .25 Acre Pines Subdivision Lot 20,000
Price Reduced!!! Listed price now at under most recent sold prices for this subdivision.Don't miss your chance to obtain a lot in the extremely fast-growing "The Pines" subdivision. Great place for a new home on this level lot(s) with adjoining lots available. New construction all around in this subdivision located just off Highway 90 East. Convenient to Crestview, easy commute to Eglin or Destin via Highway 285 3 miles away. Auburn Water available to "The Pines," High speed internet now available.Seller is a licensed real estate agent. Bring all offers
Northwest Florida Lakefront property in Defuniak Springs - 08/19/2007
LOT 10 LAKE ROSEMARY ESTATES Acreage: 1.07 WFFeet: 140 ListPrice: $85,000
Lovely lake front with view of two lakes 140 waterfront footage on the lake Don't miss this opportunity for lakefront at this price. One of the fastest growing subdivisions in the area. Right around the corner from the new sunlake subdivision.Owner is a Licensed Real Estate agent.city water available, electric is available, and you can put a septic tank on the property. Seller pays all closing cost.
Buildable lot in Paxton Florida - 08/18/2007
Build your dream home on this wooded half acre lot, select which Florida native trees you want to keep for as much or as little privacy as you would like. The lot sits directly on county Highway 147 which provides you with paved road frontage.Located not far from the Crestivew or Paxton area . With all this it is priced to sell take a look at this affordable lot today.
HWY 147 PAXTON, FL 32538 MLS#:457992 Acreage: 0.50 $15,000
2007 Bond money available Okaloosa County,Santa Rosa County Walton - 08/18/2007
There is another bond issue for first time homebuyers now available in addition to the State of Florida issue. It is the 2007 Escambia County Bond Program. Here are the general parameters: -this issue is available in Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties. -must be a first time homebuyer and have a contract to lock-in. A first time homebuyer is defined as someone who has not owned a primary residence in the last 3 years. -RATE-5.19% with 1.50 points. 30 year fixed rate only. -available for conventional, VA, FHA and Rural Development loans. -Maximum total family income-Okaloosa county - 1-2 members-$57,800 and 3 + members-$66,470. Santa Rosa and Walton counties-1-2 members-$54,800 and 3 + members-$63,020. -Maximum sales price limitations-Okaloosa -$281,137, Santa Rosa-$237,031 and Walton-$429,619. -owner occupied only. -no home buyer counseling required. -UP to $7000 in the form of a second mortgage to cover closing cost, prepaids and down payment. The Rate is 0% amortized over 10 years($58.33 per month). There is no monthly payment but the second is paid when the house is sold, or the borrower no longer resides in the property. This bond issue offers the lowest rate currently available on a 30 year fixed rate. If you are working with someone who is a first time homebuyer, please have them call me with any questions. 1-800-303-7010, or 651-5252 local. Thanks in advance, John Flournoy Mortgage Loan Officer
Revisit Some Past Episodes on TeamSoldTV.com Today - 08/18/2007
We want to invite you to visit our site at http://www.TeamSoldTV.com watch, from the first episode, all properties that have been viewed to date. 5484 Highway 192, Defuniak Springs, Florida is now sold,we are happy to announce.
However, many properties are still available. Watch the tours of: Lot 10, Eugene Court on Lake Rosemary, a great Florida lakefront lot in Defuniak Springs, Florida for sale on episode 2; Lot 29 and Lot 30, Falcon Way, The Pines subdivision, Crestview, Florida, both level, buildable lots that are a quarter acre in a subdivision for $30,000 with Auburn Water available;
a 26-acre tract on Innsbrook Lane in Holt, Florida; a 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom John King Road home on an oversized half acre lot, south of I-10; commercial lots on Bay Street in Crestview, Florida, a corner lot over an acre in size; and 10-acre Stallion Drive, Crestview, Florida with an updated 2-bedroom 1989 in an all 10-acre-tracts subdivision for $125,000, all in episode 3.
You can view these in-depth tours which are not normally seen online -- not just pictures but good information that may help you find your dream home. You can get a clear picture on many properties on our show today. We are airing new episode number 5 this Friday at its normal time. I want to thank Lisa Sanford for appearing on multiple episodes of Team Sold Real Estate TV that airs on the CW, FOX, & WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel (Friday night). Just visit TeamSoldTV.com
and click "Schedule" on the menu to the left to find out our airtimes. Or, if you are outside of our viewing area, we have you covered as well; all our episodes will be available at TeamSoldTV.com. Just click on the link under "Episodes" in the "Interactive" section on the front page to view the complete show. Email us your questions now at
www.TeamSoldTV.com and we will answer them on upcoming shows. We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola as well.
Many Properties Covered on Our New Episode; Watch It Today - 08/18/2007
Many Properties Covered on Our New Episode; Watch It Today
I want to thank Kaylyn Knopes and Michelle Styron for appearing on episode 4 of Team Sold Real Estate TV that airs on CW, FOX, & WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel (Friday night). Just visit TeamSoldTV.com and click "Schedule" on the menu to the left to find out our airtimes. Or, if you are outside of our viewing area, we have you covered as well; all our episodes will be available at www.TeamSoldTV.com. Just click on the link under "Episodes" in the "Interactive" section to view the complete show. Email us your questions now at www.TeamSoldTV.com and we will answer them on upcoming shows. We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola as well.
Watch Team Sold Real Estate TV at TeamSoldTV.com - 08/18/2007
We are proud to present, as a service to everyone viewing our site, that we will be bringing you every episode of our brand new TV show called "Team Sold Real Estate TV" that airs on CW, FOX, & WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel. Just visit TeamSoldTV.com and click on the link under "Episodes" in the middle of our page in the "Interactive" section. Our show will will be bringing you information that we hope you will find helpful, from many of the home industries' top professionals from title companies to loan officers. Our first two episodes feature Patrice Bobo-Miles with Countrywide Home Loans. Email us your questions now at www.TeamSoldTV.com and we will answer your questions on upcoming shows. We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola in upcoming shows as well. If you are outside of our viewing area we have you covered; all our episodes will be available right here.
Team Sold on TV - 08/18/2007
We are proud to announce that now, as a service to everyone in our viewing area (all of the Emerald Coast), we will be bringing you our very first episode of our brand new TV show called " eam Sold Real Estate TV," starting January 5, 2007, on WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel.
We will be bringing you information that we hope you will find helpful from many of the home industries' top
professionals, from title companies to loan officers.
Email us your questions now at www.Teamsoldtv.com and we will be answering your questions on upcoming shows.
We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola in upcoming shows as well.
If you are outside of our viewing area we still have you covered; all our episodes will be available on YouTube. Stay tuned!
Saving money at closing - 08/18/2007
Savings Tips
Fees for some standard items, such as appraisal, credit report and title insurance should be almost the same at every lender. The same goes for payments to local governments, such as documentation stamps and recording fees.
A bank or mortgage company may be willing to drop some of the fees if you opt out of a service. For instance, they may overnight documents back and forth for faster approval. If you are not in a hurry, you can ask that the documents be sent by regular mail and the overnight charges be dropped.
Watch out for "junk fees" or additional charges. Most mortgage programs include them, but you should be able to negotiate them down or eliminate them.
Other Ways to Save on Costs
Try to close your mortgage near the end of the month. Because all mortgage loans are due on the first of the month, you will have to pay interest from the day you close until the end of the month. You can avoid or greatly reduce prepaid interest due by closing the last day of the month or near that date, and save yourself hundreds of dollars.
As part of the sale contract, you can negotiate with the seller of the property to help pay for some of the closing costs, points or other fees.
Plan ahead with your mortgage lender. Don't wait until the day of closing to try to reduce costs.
Qualified Intermediary receives Certified Exchange Specialist TM Recognition - 08/18/2007
Destin, Florida: Old South 1031 Exchange Services, LLC, a nationwide 1031 Qualified Intermediary announces that Andrew Gustafson, a principal of the firm, is one of twelve business professionals in the state of Florida and less than two hundred nationally to earn the Certified Exchange Specialist (CES) designation, after meeting the examination and work-experience criteria established by the Federation of Exchange Accommodators (FEA). The FEA is a non-profit trade organization with a nationwide network of certified professionals accountants, attorneys, real estate brokers, and others to help investors handle the requirements of Section 1031 transactions.
Section 1031 Exchanges are complex transactions that permit investors to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of certain types of business, investment, or income property, provided specific criteria are met, including the replacement of the property with one or more properties of "like kind." Investment real estate is the most common type of property exchanged in this manner, though many other types of property can be bought and sold through a 1031 exchange. Examples include construction equipment, easements, livestock, oil and gas, minerals, timber, water rights, airplanes, boats and yachts, and motor vehicles, among others.
The FEA is encouraging taxpayers to consider using a Certified Exchange Specialist to act as a "qualified intermediary" for their 1031 for good reason. According to Andrew Gustafson, "Almost anyone can claim to be a Qualified Intermediary. The problem is that Section 1031 Exchanges are complicated and highly specific, so even a small mistake could completely wipe out the potential tax benefits. The FEA's certification program is intended to allow taxpayers to make informed decisions when selecting a Qualified Intermediary."
Fees on a mortgage - 08/18/2007
Fees on a mortgage cover almost every cost associated with getting a loan. You've already encountered fees upfront for a credit report and a property appraisal.
But there are many more fees that you will be expected to pay at closing or settlement, which is generally 30 to 60 days after finalizing the sales contract. These closing costs are outlined in the "good faith estimate." The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act requires every bank or mortgage company to give the buyer the estimate within three days of applying for the loan. It will list expenses related to inspections, taxes, title insurance and a host of other charges. You also should receive an information booklet, "Settlement Costs -- a HUD Guide."
Tip:The best approach is to get a copy of the good faith estimate before you make a commitment to any lender.
Typical Closing Costs
Here is a list of typical closing costs. In general, closing costs amount to 3 percent to 6 percent of the sale price. Note items with an asterisk (*) are explained below. For an estimated price range, see the separate Standard Closing Costs.
Loan application fees and credit report
Title search and insurance fees*
Lender's attorney fees
Property appraisal
Inspections
Survey
Recording fees
Transfer taxes
Buyer's attorney
Documentary stamps on new note
Points and origination fees
Condominium application fee
Escrow account balances/prepaids*
Title Insurance
This is a policy that insures against errors in the title search, essentially guaranteeing you and your lender's financial interest in the property. It checks for any defects, liens or encumbrances on the property that may affect the rights of ownership, possesion or use of the property. It is issued after a complete examination of the public records. It also insures against such things as forgery, fraud, missing heirs or divorce actions. Keep in mind that the required title insurance protects the lender. You may want to take out an owner's title insurance to protect yourself.
Escrow
At closing you may have to put aside money into special escrow accounts to cover other costs associated with buying a home, such as private mortgage insurance (PMI), property taxes and homeowner's insurance. This will ensure that taxes and insurance premiums on the property are paid on time. Federal law limits the amount of "cushion" to two months of escrow payments. Be sure to ask the lender what escrow payments will be required at closing. Some mortgage companies may waive escrow requirements if you pay more points or a higher interest rate.
Savings Tips
You may be able to lower the cost of title insurance if the home you're buying hasn't been owned for a long time by the seller. The insurer may be willing to give you a re-issue rate, hence lower a premium, if there have been no claims against the title since the previous title search was done. If both you and the seller are getting title insurance, you can save by using the same title insurance firm. The cost will be lower since the insuror researches the property only once for both of you.
It is important to review the estimate of closing costs and to ask questions about fees that seem unfamiliar. Lenders differ and can get creative when it comes to other types of charges
Closing Cost Review - 08/18/2007
Closing Cost Review
How much money do you need to bring to the table on closing day?
Reminder: Keep your copy of the "good faith estimate" and compare it to the final list of closing costs. Question any changes or additions. Your closing agent should allow you to review the settlement form one business day before closing.
You may want to preview a sample of the HUD-1 Settlement Statement at the web site of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The site also has other helpful information about closings and settlement.
At this point, having secured the mortgage loan, you already have paid for the loan application fee, the property appraisal and some of the down payment. At the closing, you will need to pay the balance of your down payment. There are other costs that still must be paid in order to close the sale, unless you already have arranged and paid for them. (If so, bring receipts and other documentation with you to the closing.) These costs can include:
Title search and insurance
Survey
Termite or other inspections
Homeowner's hazard insurance
Flood insurance
Taxes
Attorney and closing agent fees
Additional fees related to the loan:
Loan origination fee
Points, if any
Private mortgage insurance (PMI)
Balance of your down payment
Reminder: Have separate certified checks for all closing costs. Some of the costs, such as points, are tax deductible. Also, bring your checkbook, so you can write a personal check for small miscellaneous expenses such as photocopying.
Florida's official web site recorded 74.5 million visitors - 08/18/2007
Florida's official web site recorded 74.5 million visitors in 2005. Investors in Florida are growing financially successful by taking advantage of the growing preconstruction real estate market. Cities, such as Orlando and Panama City, make Florida one of our nation's strongest economic states. Florida also has many advantages, for instance theme parks, museums, beautiful beaches, and also a wide variety of military bases. As you search Florida's Investment Properties you will see a variety of listings for every major city in the Emerald Coast and various vacation hotspots. Why buy property that is more expensive and needs to be fixed-up, when you can invest in a preconstruction real estate opportunity? These real estate properties can act as your home away from home or can easily be rented out to other families during the year to provide a steady income.
Florida is the acting central location for all preconstruction real estate opportunities at this time. Pensacola is more than just another city on a map and this tends to attract tourists from all over the globe. Various attractive hotspots surround this great city allowing for opportunities for investors to make money on pre-construction investments. Allowing for a great vacation spot for a diverse group of people.
The preconstruction real estate market in Florida is growing rapidly. The average selling price for a property in Florida rose 17% over 2005. The average selling price for a preconstruction property rose 26% in 2005. As you can see, even the traditional real estate market in Florida is growing at 6% over the national average, and preconstruction real estate is strong. Developers will sometimes cut their preconstruction project into phases allowing for someone who invested in the project during an earlier phase to pay considerably less then someone who invested during a later phase.
Thank you to the Real Estate Development Center for this article.
The Difference Between Real Estate Agent and Realtor - 08/18/2007
The Difference Between Real Estate Agent and Realtor
Though the two terms are often used interchangably, real estate agents and REALTORS have different connotations. While both types of real estate professionals help clients buy and sell property in a similar fashion, REALTORS are members of the National Association of REALTORS. Retaining membership to this prestigious organization requires a strict adherence to seventeen tenets of ethical behavior in real estate transactions.
While evaluating the ethical behavior if each individual real estate professional would prove impossible and the morality of each REALTOR is not guaranteed, it is fact that unaffiliated real estate agents are not required to conform to these policies.
The Seventeen Commandments of REALTORS
1. Treat your clients, buyers, sellers, landlords, or tenants, fairly and honestly while protecting and promoting their interests.
2. Do not misrepresent, exaggerate, or lie about any property. However, you are not responsible for latent defects or providing advice unrelated to real estate.
3. Cooperate with other brokers, except when cooperation is not in your clients best interest.
4. If you have any personal interest in the property (for yourself, friends, family, or co-workers), you must tell the property owner. If selling your own home, you must reveal this information to the buyer.
5. Do not represent a property of which you have marked interest without disclosing this information to all affected parties.
6. Do not take any commissions or additional fees for favors or recommendations without notifying the client when these costs are first mentioned.
7. Do not accept compensation from more than one party per transaction without prior approval from all parties involved.
8. Keep your personal assets in a separate account from your professional funds.
9. Make sure all agreements and contracts are written explicitly in laymens terms that all clients will understand. After signing, give each party a copy of the contract.
10. Do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
11. Conform to quality standards of the specific type real estate transaction. Do not undertake a job if it is outside of your field without the assistance of a professional competent in said field.
12. Represent yourself honestly to the public, clearly stating your professional status.
13. Do not pretend you are a lawyer.
14. Cooperate, be honest, and present all facts if you are charged with unethical practice. Do not disrupt the proceedings.
15. Do not engage in slanderous activity against competitors.
16. Do not interfere with other REALTORS exclusive relationships with their clients.
17. In the event of a dispute, go to the REALTOR board for arbitration rather than going to a regular legal court.
Information provided from Realtor.org.
Increased Internet Exposure - 08/18/2007
ERA Has Increased Internet Exposure..."Always there for you
As a company founded on technology, ERA Real Estate has always embraced the idea of turning innovative thinking into a competitive advantage for its agents and customers. With that in mind, I am glad to announce a unique marketing initative we have established with Google, the internet search leader, to provide increased online exposure for our sellers' property listings.
We have become the first real estate network to make all of its national residential listings available through Google. This new service that allows content providers to submit detailed information to be incorporated into Google search results.
This initative makes it easier for prospective buyers to discover your listings online and is an excellent example of how listings with ERA can help sellers best market their home online.With the internet playing an ever increasing role in our industry, it is vitally important that we take full advantage of the potential presented by this technology. We will continue to work on creating new marketing venues for you to utilitize as part of the ERA network.Thank you to ERA Franchise and Public Relations for their help.
Residential lot loan program - 08/18/2007
Up to 30 year amortization
Interest only payments available
Up to 90% financing (based on appraisal or contract)(*land size restrictions)
Mortgages modified for construction loan (reducing costs for construction loans)
Plan
1 & 1 ARM
3 & 1 ARM
5-Year Fixed Amort.
Min. CashDown Payment
25% 10%
25% 10%
25% 10%
Maximum LTV
75% 90%
75% 90%
75% 90%
Start Rate
6.95% 7.25%
7.50% 7.75%
7.95% 8.25%
Total Points
0 1/2
0 1/2
0 1/2
Amortization
Interest Only
Interest Only
15-Year(**20/30 Year)
Maturity
5 Years
5 Years
5 Years
Caps
2% Annual - 5% Life
2% Annual - 5% Life
N/A
Index
1 Year T-Bill
1 Year T-Bill
N/A
Margin
3.50% 3.75%
3.50% 3.75%
N/A
AdjustmentFrequency
Annually
Annually beginningyear 4
N/A(Note this program is only available in platted/recorded subdivisions and good sales histories.
Areas that do not qualify, lower LTV and higher interest rates may apply.)
A minimum of 25% down required on purchases of $500,000+.
Investor loans - minimum 25% down, 75% LTC/LTV; increase above rate by a minimum of 1% and get a 1% origination fee.
Non-purchase (refinance, renewal, cash out) add a minimum of .50% to above rate.
Non-platted, rural, and without deed restrictions which limit homes to site built add a minimum of 1% to above rate. Minimum 25% down, 75% LTV.
Add .50% to rate for loans qualifying for stated income program (purchased for primary residence only).
Foreign National Program - minimum 25% down, 75%LTC/LTV: increase above rate by a minimum of 1% and get a 1% origination fee and a 6 month reserve account.
All loans are subject to qualification.* Maximum lot size 3 acres
(10 acre if in platted subdivision).
** 20 year available on loans above $35,000, 30 year on loans above $100,000.Rates and terms subject to change. For informational purposes only.
Call Rena Gilpatrick of Peoples First at 850-609-3941 for more information. Thanks again Rena for the information.
Northwest Florida Local Lenders - 08/18/2007
Access Bank and Mortgage 1-888-908-1994
www.accessthebank.com
AmSouth 1-800-374-5791
www.amsouth.com
Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union
1-800-448-4096
www.aacfcu.com
Bank of America
1-800-432-1000
www.bankofamerica.com
BankTrust
1-800-689-7929
www.banktrustonline.com
Colonial Bank
1-877-502-2265
www.colonialbank.com
Compass Bank
1-800-239-4357
www.compassbank.com
Eglin Federal Credit Union
1-800-367-6159
www.eglinfcu.org
First City Bank
1-888-244-5151
www.firstcitybank.com
First National Bank of Florida
1-800-277-0995
www.fnbfl.com
First National Bank & Trust
1-866-395-0051
www.fnbt.com
Okaloosa County Teachers' Credit Union
850-863-7041
www.okaloosafcu.org
Peoples' First Community Bank
1-800-982-4940
www.peoplesfirst.com
Peoples' National Bank
1-800-303-7010
www.pnbon.com
Regions
1-800-REGIONS
www.regions.com
SunTrust
1-800-786-8787
www.suntrust.com
TrustMark
1-800-844-2000
www.trustmark.com
Tyndall Federal Credit Union
1-877-747-4321
www.tyndallfcu.org
Vanguard Bank
1-800-840-8440
www.vanguardbank.com
Wachovia
1-800-922-4684
www.wachovia.com
Free Credit Report - 08/18/2007
Free Credit Report I have tried it and it is truly free: no charge!Have you ever been denied credit for a purchase even though you thought your credit was great? Have you ever wondered if you were a victim of identity theft? The answer could be in your credit report. Until now you could not access this information without a fee. However, with the passage of the Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act, consumers can now get a free credit report annually from each of the three credit reporting bureaus that supply businesses with information on customers -- Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.The address is http://www.annualcreditreport.com/.Thanks to John Flournoy at People's First Community Bank for faxing over the information some time back and for reminding me of this information. If you are thinking of buying property John would be happy to talk with you about all the lending programs that are available. Tell him you are working with Brandon Jordan of ERA American Realty and he will give you $250.00 off your closing costs.You can reach him at his office at (850)651-5252 or email him at johnflournoy@peoplesfirst.com.
First post on Northwest Florida Realtor - 08/18/2007
Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? We work in Crestview, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, DeFuniak Springs, Eglin Air Force Base, South Walton Beaches, and surrounding areas. Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
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