For those of you who haven't called me.......................Fay has come and gone and didn't spend a lot of time in Mexico Beach! We, once again, escaped the "devastation" the weather channel predicted.
Friday evening we had quite a bit of heavy rain. The ocean was churned up pretty good and well, that's pretty much it! It was overcast and drizzly Saturday, off and on sunshine with some scattered rain Sunday. Looks as if we are going to have a little more rain today.
I know the radar showed we got blasted, but we didn't! I don't know how Panama City Beach fared. I know Tallahassee had torrential rainstorms that flooded many streets and probably had quite a few trees down.
So, once again, we were spared!
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The MBARA kingfish Tournament was postponed to September 13th. The cooking team had everything ready to go, but fortunately Raffields fisheries allowed them to put all that sausage in their freezer!!! So they'll be ready Friday the 12th for the captain's party!!!
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Although there weren't a lot of people down this past weekend, I showed property all weekend to some folks who have been looking for a while and feel that this is the right time to "jump in" !
Interest rates have edged up slightly and most people are saying they won't drop under 6% again.
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My real estate newsletter on the stats for August will be out in a week or so. If you've not signed up to receive it via email, please do!
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As always, you can keep up to date on all the properties for sale through my website.
Have a great week and remember "God loves everyone, but probably prefers "fruits of the spirit" over "religious nuts"!!!!!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Florida Sportsman Fishing Forum
I'm sure that many of you are hooked, as my husband is, to the Florida Sportsman Fishing Forums! I thought it was probably just a lot of fishing stories! I am in constant awe as I log on occasionally to read AND LEARN! There are the typical threads of fishing stories and related questions about what size lead to use and where to catch'em this weekend. But you will be amazed at the humor, wit, sensitivity, and intelligence that the fishing forum regulars provide!
I've laughed 'til I cried at some of their stories and descriptions. I've cried as they have asked their "fishing brothers" to pray for a loved one that has been diagnosed with cancer. and I've taken notes as they have passed on information from their many levels and fields of expertise.
Doctors, lawyers, teachers, Realtors, preachers.............they are all on there! Their advice, knowledge, suggestions, criticisms is like any other forum, you might have to weed through some not so good posts but all in all a very educational read!!!!
The link is on my web page in the links section.
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http://outdoorsbest.zeroforum.com/zerothread?id=778079
Above is a thread in the forum. Interestingly enough, forum members seem to agree with ME!
They believe the bottom of the real estate market is at hand and that if you want to have a place in Florida, you might better begin a serious look! In the thread link above they explain why they believe so. They are not talking to the "flipper" who wants to buy and then sell in 7 months for a large profit. They are talking to the 2nd home owner, the vacationer, the family that spends every long weekend here who is going to buy a home to use and enjoy for the next 5-100 years!!!!
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The Florida Department of transportation is again hosting meetings about the proposed Gulf Coast Parkway. This is the new roadway planned to link Hwy 98 in Gulf County around Mexico Beach and link it to hwy 231 in Panama City. There are several routes they are looking at and are having meetings to educate the public on those routes.
http://gulfcoastparkway.com/index.cfm
This is a great website to provide you with all the information! They show and describe each route considered in detail.
This is a long range project, still in the planning stages right now. I do believe this will be great for Mexico Beach as it takes through traffic off the only road through Mexico Beach along our beautiful beaches!!! I believe it will provide easier access from Panama City, our Alabama visitors as well as those farther north! I believe it too will raise property values as it makes us even a little more exclusive!
___________________________________________________
The MBARA kingfishing tournament is this weekend! The cooking team (my brother -in-law as well as other friends) are cooking the sausage Friday night at the Captain's party at the El Governor. You can register there as well!
The weigh ins will be at Marquardt's Marina, where Sally, Bill and I will be weighing in those monsters you catch!!!
Hopefully, Hurricane Fay will dissipate and not cause anybody any problems!!!
_________________________________________________
That's all for today! If you are interested in buying or selling you can always keep up to date on the market by browsing my listings or ALL listings on my website. Don't forget, I can help you with properties that aren't my listings just as well as I can with those that are!
There are some good deals out there-------give me a call and I can send you a list of properties I think are good buys!
____________________________________________________
Have a great week, recognize the blessings around you, and don't hesitate to call me if I can help you with anything!
Mary
I've laughed 'til I cried at some of their stories and descriptions. I've cried as they have asked their "fishing brothers" to pray for a loved one that has been diagnosed with cancer. and I've taken notes as they have passed on information from their many levels and fields of expertise.
Doctors, lawyers, teachers, Realtors, preachers.............they are all on there! Their advice, knowledge, suggestions, criticisms is like any other forum, you might have to weed through some not so good posts but all in all a very educational read!!!!
The link is on my web page in the links section.
________________________________________________________
http://outdoorsbest.zeroforum.com/zerothread?id=778079
Above is a thread in the forum. Interestingly enough, forum members seem to agree with ME!
They believe the bottom of the real estate market is at hand and that if you want to have a place in Florida, you might better begin a serious look! In the thread link above they explain why they believe so. They are not talking to the "flipper" who wants to buy and then sell in 7 months for a large profit. They are talking to the 2nd home owner, the vacationer, the family that spends every long weekend here who is going to buy a home to use and enjoy for the next 5-100 years!!!!
____________________________________________________
The Florida Department of transportation is again hosting meetings about the proposed Gulf Coast Parkway. This is the new roadway planned to link Hwy 98 in Gulf County around Mexico Beach and link it to hwy 231 in Panama City. There are several routes they are looking at and are having meetings to educate the public on those routes.
http://gulfcoastparkway.com/index.cfm
This is a great website to provide you with all the information! They show and describe each route considered in detail.
This is a long range project, still in the planning stages right now. I do believe this will be great for Mexico Beach as it takes through traffic off the only road through Mexico Beach along our beautiful beaches!!! I believe it will provide easier access from Panama City, our Alabama visitors as well as those farther north! I believe it too will raise property values as it makes us even a little more exclusive!
___________________________________________________
The MBARA kingfishing tournament is this weekend! The cooking team (my brother -in-law as well as other friends) are cooking the sausage Friday night at the Captain's party at the El Governor. You can register there as well!
The weigh ins will be at Marquardt's Marina, where Sally, Bill and I will be weighing in those monsters you catch!!!
Hopefully, Hurricane Fay will dissipate and not cause anybody any problems!!!
_________________________________________________
That's all for today! If you are interested in buying or selling you can always keep up to date on the market by browsing my listings or ALL listings on my website. Don't forget, I can help you with properties that aren't my listings just as well as I can with those that are!
There are some good deals out there-------give me a call and I can send you a list of properties I think are good buys!
____________________________________________________
Have a great week, recognize the blessings around you, and don't hesitate to call me if I can help you with anything!
Mary
Sunday, July 27, 2008
The Real Estate Market in Mexico Beach Florida
Here is a very cool picture, taken by the space shuttle! I've circled the Cape, hope you can see it!
If you'd like me to send you a copy, send me a quick email!
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I've been encouraged by the recent activity in our little area this month! Lots of lookers, several offers and contracts and most importantly a realization by the buying public that perhaps prices are getting right! Buyers are realizing that interest rates are going up and prices are beginning to stabilize a little. They may fall a little more, but based on SELLING PRICES not listing prices, we are pretty close to the bottom. It's always scary to say that because, fortunately, I cannot predict the future-----we will only know the bottom was here, when its not here anymore!!!!!
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My immediate selling area is Mexico Beach, St. Joe Beach. This is a very small localized area, so when I'm thrilled to say we have put 7-8 properties under contract in a month, please realize we are only talking about a 5 sq mile area!!!!!!
I also work in Port St. Joe, Cape San Blas, Windmark Beach, Overstreet and Wewahitchka, but most of my statistics and information in my blog and newsletter are corresponding to Mexico Beach and St. Joe Beach.
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I just want to say thank you to all my loyal customers, those who list with me and are patient while we try to find you a buyer and those who use me to assist them in finding a property to buy!
Many Realtors have had a hard time sustaining in this down market but thanks to you I am number 4 in sales (within the Beaches area and Port st. Joe and Wewahitchka)! It has not been easy but I can tell you I ENJOY EVERY MINUTE!!!! How many people can say they love every minute of their job, have a 3 minute commute to their job, and get to see the ocean from their office!!!!!
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An interesting statistic is the average sale for this year is 83.64% of the asking price. If its a cash offer it is 78% of the listing price! That is a huge negotiating margin!! I do think that sellers are now becoming more reasonable when they list, so I anticipate that that percentage to decrease quite a bit as listing prices reflect the market value more closely. Please don't jump to conclusions that every listing price is 20% negotiable though! That number takes into account many short sales, foreclosures and distress sales. My point in stating it is that many areas of the country, and even our neighbor, Panama City, the average percentage is really no more than 3-5%, so if you are seriously looking in the area, you need to realize that most of the time you have a lot of negotiating room!
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I know I've said this before but its worth stating again because I am asked this question all the time-------Realtors licensed in Florida, can sell any property in Florida. You do not have to use the Realtor on the yard sign to buy that property. Once you find a Realtor that you "connect" with, you can use them to assist you in buying any property! We usually have an area of expertise. For instance, I CAN sell a condo in Panama City, but due to the HUGE inventory of condo's over there and my frequency or lack of in selling over there, I am certainly not the best Realtor to advise you.
If you give me enough notice and a very specific set of criteria, I am willing to research the market extensively and would love to help, but that is not my primary area of expertise.
I can, however, refer you to a great Realtor over there!!!!!
I can talk about the market and individual properties all day long if they are in Mexico Beach, St. Joe Beach, Windmark, Port St. Joe, Wewahitchka though!!!!!
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There is a real estate auction being held July 31st. Two very nice, newer homes, one with fantastic gulf view, one a block from the water, as well as a little home in Port St. Joe.
If you would like information on the auction, send me a quick email and I'll send you some information.
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I've talked to several bankers lately, they all say the interest rates are going to continue to go up. The best rate I've dealt with lately is from Tyndall Federal Credit Union---5.91%!!! There are restrictions though. If you'd like more information, just let me know!!!
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As always................................
If you are interested in buying or selling, please give me a call/email!
If you are no longer interested in being on my database please send me a quick email and I'll take you off my database!
Please feel free to browse my website as every property on the market is listed there!
Don't hesitate to call me if you have any questions about any property you are interested in!
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Have a great week!
Mary
Thursday, July 24, 2008
July has been Hot!
And I don't mean temperature wise! Six properties have been put under contract in the last 24 days and 2 of them have already closed as they were cash sales!! A mixture of properties from Gulf front homes to gulf view homes to single families a couple blocks back to beach side townhouses to fixer uppers!
I think this shows that prices are getting right!
______________________________________________________
Below is an excerpt from an article I read. I think it puts things into perspective when buyers respond--we are waiting for the bottom!
Interest rates fluctuate – it’s natural in any economy. But, due to the recession and inflation, we’re seeing record-high interest rates, which translate to fractions of a percentage point dramatically increasing the amount you pay for a thirty-year fixed loan. For example, if you’re looking to buy a $300,000 house, you’ll pay 6.525% interest – or $320,341.74 in interest over the life of your 30-year loan. Increase that APR to 6.53%, and you’ll pay $335,234.70 – or almost FIFTEEN thousand dollars more just with a ¼ percentage point increase.
As interest rates fluctuate, it can be tempting to sit back and wait for rates to go down again – but looking at the recent trends, rates aren’t going down again any time soon. Imagine a year from now, the interest rate can be above 7.5% - bringing your total interest costs to $379,293.06 – or $58,000 more than if you locked in the current APR. That 6.525% APR would save you a bundle on your monthly mortgage and on your overall thirty-year loan.
Ensuring the Best Interest Rate
More than anything, you need to make sure that you have a good credit score. If you don’t know your credit score, go to www.annualcreditreport.com, you’re entitled to one free credit report per year. Look over your credit report, and take note of your debts and your credit-to-debt ratio. Make sure your current debts stay current, and you have no outstanding unpaid debts. Also ensure that you have more credit than debt, as lenders look at this closely. Your interest rate is directly related to your credit score – do everything within your power to increase your credit score rating.
Then, shop around! Call several mortgage companies and tell them you’re shopping around to find the best rate for your loan. They’ll be more than happy to provide you their best rate for your situation.
When you’re buying a home, price shouldn’t be your determining factor. Truth be told, you’ll pay much more on a $300k home with a poor interest rate than you’d pay on a $350 home with a great rate. Taking this into consideration, you may be able to find your dream home and save thousands of dollars in the process.
____________________________________________________
The $35 million dollar Sacred Heart Hospital is starting construction on the facility building as we speak!! Completion is estimated to be in the fall of 2009. This will not only provide 150+ jobs which will be a huge boost for our economy, but it will also provide much needed services to this community. The hospital will provide private rooms, emergency room, 2 operating rooms, a medical facility for outpatient services, laboratory services and a helipad!
We are so looking forward to this project!!
_________________________________________________________
Fishing................the snappers have moved out a little ways, but they are still pretty thick. However, the season is over at the end of this month! Kingfish and spanish have been running pretty good and I hear the cobia are on the way!!!
Chip has had a great season---He has had very few days off in the last 2 months! Thanks to all of you who have booked trips with him!!!! His website: www.charterboat-missmary.com
_______________________________________________________
The MBARA kingfish tournament is the 23rd of August! Let me know if you need details.
_____________________________________________________
As always, check out my website www.maryblackburn.com , don't hesitate to call me if you have any questions about Mexico Beach, real estate, fishing..........
And....................go to church this Sunday!!!
"God doesn't call the qualified.........................................He qualifies the called!"
I think this shows that prices are getting right!
______________________________________________________
Below is an excerpt from an article I read. I think it puts things into perspective when buyers respond--we are waiting for the bottom!
Interest rates fluctuate – it’s natural in any economy. But, due to the recession and inflation, we’re seeing record-high interest rates, which translate to fractions of a percentage point dramatically increasing the amount you pay for a thirty-year fixed loan. For example, if you’re looking to buy a $300,000 house, you’ll pay 6.525% interest – or $320,341.74 in interest over the life of your 30-year loan. Increase that APR to 6.53%, and you’ll pay $335,234.70 – or almost FIFTEEN thousand dollars more just with a ¼ percentage point increase.
As interest rates fluctuate, it can be tempting to sit back and wait for rates to go down again – but looking at the recent trends, rates aren’t going down again any time soon. Imagine a year from now, the interest rate can be above 7.5% - bringing your total interest costs to $379,293.06 – or $58,000 more than if you locked in the current APR. That 6.525% APR would save you a bundle on your monthly mortgage and on your overall thirty-year loan.
Ensuring the Best Interest Rate
More than anything, you need to make sure that you have a good credit score. If you don’t know your credit score, go to www.annualcreditreport.com, you’re entitled to one free credit report per year. Look over your credit report, and take note of your debts and your credit-to-debt ratio. Make sure your current debts stay current, and you have no outstanding unpaid debts. Also ensure that you have more credit than debt, as lenders look at this closely. Your interest rate is directly related to your credit score – do everything within your power to increase your credit score rating.
Then, shop around! Call several mortgage companies and tell them you’re shopping around to find the best rate for your loan. They’ll be more than happy to provide you their best rate for your situation.
When you’re buying a home, price shouldn’t be your determining factor. Truth be told, you’ll pay much more on a $300k home with a poor interest rate than you’d pay on a $350 home with a great rate. Taking this into consideration, you may be able to find your dream home and save thousands of dollars in the process.
____________________________________________________
The $35 million dollar Sacred Heart Hospital is starting construction on the facility building as we speak!! Completion is estimated to be in the fall of 2009. This will not only provide 150+ jobs which will be a huge boost for our economy, but it will also provide much needed services to this community. The hospital will provide private rooms, emergency room, 2 operating rooms, a medical facility for outpatient services, laboratory services and a helipad!
We are so looking forward to this project!!
_________________________________________________________
Fishing................the snappers have moved out a little ways, but they are still pretty thick. However, the season is over at the end of this month! Kingfish and spanish have been running pretty good and I hear the cobia are on the way!!!
Chip has had a great season---He has had very few days off in the last 2 months! Thanks to all of you who have booked trips with him!!!! His website: www.charterboat-missmary.com
_______________________________________________________
The MBARA kingfish tournament is the 23rd of August! Let me know if you need details.
_____________________________________________________
As always, check out my website www.maryblackburn.com , don't hesitate to call me if you have any questions about Mexico Beach, real estate, fishing..........
And....................go to church this Sunday!!!
"God doesn't call the qualified.........................................He qualifies the called!"
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Happy 4th of July in Mexico Beach Florida
The fireworks have already started! I heard some on the beach last night! Mexico Beach puts on a great fireworks display. This week will be one of the busiest of the year here. Its great to see the hustle and bustle this week---as long as its only a couple of weeks a year, I love it!
The city also puts on a kids fishing tournament, a sand castle competion, and a 5k run. Port St. Joe has a pirate themed celebration all weekend. Lots of activities for everyone!
Mexico Beach will shoot its fireworks off the pier around 8:30, so bring a blanket, chairs, perhaps a beverage or two and spread out on the beach for the evening.
REMEMBER TO CLEAN UP AFTERWARDS THOUGH!!!!
__________________________________________________________
Scallop season starts today and runs through Sept 10th. The daily limit is 2 gallons in the shell or 1 pint of meat. You can just walk out in to the bay to collect them and if you've never done it before it is great fun with a delicious reward!!
____________________________________________________________
As for the real estate market...........its about the same! Still slow but not dead!! There are definite buyers out there who know if they want a piece of property here at the beach that this is a good time to buy. As I've said for the last umpteen blogs, if you are a "flipper" looking to buy and then re-sell within the next year, you are going to have to wait for a steal. If you are a buyer who wants a long term investment or a vacation retreat at the beach, then I truly believe this is as good a time as any to make an offer.
Are prices going to decline any further? Is it the bottom of the market? Can anyone answer that question honestly???? No one knows. What I do know is that prices are affordable for those who can afford a 2nd home anywhere else! How do I know that? Because that's who buying now!
Even first time home buyers are looking and buying here!
______________________________________________________
Does it really make a difference if the house you want may fall another few thousand dollars in the next 6 months when compared to a 5 year appreciation? If you find a great house or lot that you really want, my advice is offer what you are willing to pay and see if it works! It may or may not---but at least you tried! You can then either move on to your #2 choice or wait a few months and re-offer on choice #1 if it is still available.
_______________________________________________________
Interest rates have crept up a little but still workable. I know of banks doing under 6% for a 30 year note with only 5% down and even 100% financing on mobile homes. Vacant lot loans are not so great right now which is why the lot sales have really taken a hit.
________________________________________________________
Owner financing and lease purchases have become quite popular in this down market. One must be creative in this kind of market so don't limit yourself to just a conventional mortgage.
I've had to be extremely flexible and think outside the box to make many deals work this year!
_________________________________________________________
THE FISHING REPORT!
Chip has been busy this past month! Snappers are thick! He's pretty much catching the limit every trip--the limit is 2 per person. Mackeral fishing has also been productive on those shorter trips. This week is booked up but if you are here anytime the rest of the month, give him a call.
________________________________________________________
Please don't hesitate to contact me if you are even THINKING about buying or selling our area. You have to start somewhere. I'm extremely patient! I've worked with customers for a year or two before they pulled the trigger and made that purchase. I know its a big decision and I'm not here to strong arm you into buying something when you can't afford it, or when you aren't ready!
_________________________________________________________
As always, you can keep up to date on the current listings through my website. Click on property search or my listings. Or email me your wish list and I'll search myself and save you the time and send you properties that meet your criteria!
____________________________________________________
Have a safe and happy 4th of July. Pray for our troops this week as you celebrate our Country's freedom!
Go to church this Sunday and................"Be ye fishers of men. You catch 'em and He'll clean 'em"
The city also puts on a kids fishing tournament, a sand castle competion, and a 5k run. Port St. Joe has a pirate themed celebration all weekend. Lots of activities for everyone!
Mexico Beach will shoot its fireworks off the pier around 8:30, so bring a blanket, chairs, perhaps a beverage or two and spread out on the beach for the evening.
REMEMBER TO CLEAN UP AFTERWARDS THOUGH!!!!
__________________________________________________________
Scallop season starts today and runs through Sept 10th. The daily limit is 2 gallons in the shell or 1 pint of meat. You can just walk out in to the bay to collect them and if you've never done it before it is great fun with a delicious reward!!
____________________________________________________________
As for the real estate market...........its about the same! Still slow but not dead!! There are definite buyers out there who know if they want a piece of property here at the beach that this is a good time to buy. As I've said for the last umpteen blogs, if you are a "flipper" looking to buy and then re-sell within the next year, you are going to have to wait for a steal. If you are a buyer who wants a long term investment or a vacation retreat at the beach, then I truly believe this is as good a time as any to make an offer.
Are prices going to decline any further? Is it the bottom of the market? Can anyone answer that question honestly???? No one knows. What I do know is that prices are affordable for those who can afford a 2nd home anywhere else! How do I know that? Because that's who buying now!
Even first time home buyers are looking and buying here!
______________________________________________________
Does it really make a difference if the house you want may fall another few thousand dollars in the next 6 months when compared to a 5 year appreciation? If you find a great house or lot that you really want, my advice is offer what you are willing to pay and see if it works! It may or may not---but at least you tried! You can then either move on to your #2 choice or wait a few months and re-offer on choice #1 if it is still available.
_______________________________________________________
Interest rates have crept up a little but still workable. I know of banks doing under 6% for a 30 year note with only 5% down and even 100% financing on mobile homes. Vacant lot loans are not so great right now which is why the lot sales have really taken a hit.
________________________________________________________
Owner financing and lease purchases have become quite popular in this down market. One must be creative in this kind of market so don't limit yourself to just a conventional mortgage.
I've had to be extremely flexible and think outside the box to make many deals work this year!
_________________________________________________________
THE FISHING REPORT!
Chip has been busy this past month! Snappers are thick! He's pretty much catching the limit every trip--the limit is 2 per person. Mackeral fishing has also been productive on those shorter trips. This week is booked up but if you are here anytime the rest of the month, give him a call.
________________________________________________________
Please don't hesitate to contact me if you are even THINKING about buying or selling our area. You have to start somewhere. I'm extremely patient! I've worked with customers for a year or two before they pulled the trigger and made that purchase. I know its a big decision and I'm not here to strong arm you into buying something when you can't afford it, or when you aren't ready!
_________________________________________________________
As always, you can keep up to date on the current listings through my website. Click on property search or my listings. Or email me your wish list and I'll search myself and save you the time and send you properties that meet your criteria!
____________________________________________________
Have a safe and happy 4th of July. Pray for our troops this week as you celebrate our Country's freedom!
Go to church this Sunday and................"Be ye fishers of men. You catch 'em and He'll clean 'em"
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Mexico Beach Florida
Our weather has been beautiful lately, hot, but beautiful! Talking to the companies that handle vacation rentals, rentals have been slower than normal thus far. It's no wonder when you consider the price of gas! It is definitely making an impact on most folks. There are a lot of people that are still coming on the weekends though, because the beaches are packed-----well , packed for Mexico Beach anyway, not packed compared to other beach communities, I guess.
Gas is over $4.00/gallon here in Mexico Beach.
______________________________________________________
Real estate has definitely been slow the last few weeks. People are still looking and even some offers being thrown around, but not a lot of offers going to contract. I always have statistics in my newsletter which will come out the 2nd week of July.
I'm not sure about other Realtors, but most of my showings lately have been single family homes as opposed to condo's. I think the pricing on condos are really going to have to come down a lot more in order to get any action. They have actually stayed pretty close to where they were at their pre-construction pricing, which was several years ago! Many of the units are still developer owned, so I would imagine they are getting pretty antsy to sell!! The least expensive 3
bedroom new condo w/pool is over $450,000. With that kind of mortgage + property tax + HOA fees, most people seem to just be staying away and going for Single family homes even though they are a little farther off the beach!
If you have at least $1500/mth expendable income you can get one of those single family homes at the beach!!!
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Windmark Beach was supposed to officially open their "School of Fish" restaurant this past weekend. I'm going to assume they did, but I have not had a chance to check it out yet.
I believe they were also opening their humongous pool as well as their vacation condos.
Below is the School of Fish menu. This is an upscale restaurant from New Orleans.
I can't wait to check it out!!! If any of you do before I get a chance, let me know what you think!!!
___________________________________________
I've been a bit frustrated trying to keep up with interest rates lately. It seems that no one wants to post their rates on their websites anymore! I know that when they quote rates and then I pass them on to you those are not written in stone---but it seems that lenders are now so worried that they will be held to those general rates that they are now afraid to give them out!
So, although I can find out some rates for you when you specifically ask me, I will not be posting rates in my blogs or newsletters anymore. I'll try to give you some kind of ball park though in my next newsletter!
____________________________________________________
On the fishing front---------------snapper fishing is awesome! In fact, I'M GOING SOON!!!
I'm not the greatest fisherman----I'm more of a "fair weather" fisherman. I'm not bad with the rod and reel, its just that I get seasick at the drop of a hat (or should I say at the hint of a wave!)
So therefore, I only like to go out when #1. its not too hot or not too cold. #2. must be slick calm #3. maximum of 4 hours #4. WE MUST CATCH A LOT OF FISH AND QUICKLY!
So, I guess it's no wonder I don't go out a lot!!!!
________________________________________________________
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Don't hesitate to call or email me if you have any questions about ANY property you see for sale----I can sell you anything in our area!
As always, go to church on Sunday---------"Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous."
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Summer is Here!
Man it's been hot! I'm not complaining though, That's why I moved here!!
The weekends have been busy in Mexico Beach. I love to go down highway 98 and see all the gorgeous umbrellas dotting the beach! Lots of kids on floats, jet skiers, sunfish, I love seeing it all!
________________________________________________
Let's talk fishing first!
Chip's been doing pretty well. Lots of snapper, that goes without saying! You know they have shortened the snapper season------why? Certainly not because there is a shortage of snapper!
Chip can't even get bait down to the bottom for a grouper because of all the snapper!!!
He's also been catching a few grouper here and there, as well as king and spanish. He had some beautiful dolpin the other day!
Check out his website and book a trip! www.charterboat-missmary.com
_____________________________________________________
As for real estate..................
It continues to be slow but somewhat steady. Everybody is showing property and there are definitely offers out there, some being rejected but quite a few being accepted. There have been some absolute steals lately!
The weekends have been busy in Mexico Beach. I love to go down highway 98 and see all the gorgeous umbrellas dotting the beach! Lots of kids on floats, jet skiers, sunfish, I love seeing it all!
________________________________________________
Let's talk fishing first!
Chip's been doing pretty well. Lots of snapper, that goes without saying! You know they have shortened the snapper season------why? Certainly not because there is a shortage of snapper!
Chip can't even get bait down to the bottom for a grouper because of all the snapper!!!
He's also been catching a few grouper here and there, as well as king and spanish. He had some beautiful dolpin the other day!
Check out his website and book a trip! www.charterboat-missmary.com
_____________________________________________________
As for real estate..................
It continues to be slow but somewhat steady. Everybody is showing property and there are definitely offers out there, some being rejected but quite a few being accepted. There have been some absolute steals lately!
- Beach side, newer, 3/3 townhouse for $195,000----completely gutted though, needs EVERYTHING on the inside.
- Beach side lot for $171,000----has a tear down house on it though.
- Two Beach side lots across from the canal for $125,000 each.
I email great deals like this EVERY DAY as soon as I find out about them. You have to be ready to move quickly! This requires trust (of me, as your Realtor), quick financing, and the ability to execute a contract quickly!
These are the deals investors are scooping up. Yes, investors are coming back into Mexico Beach!
_________________________________________________________
There are plenty of good deals for everybody though! If you are looking for a beach side (this does not mean gulf front, it means beachside of Hwy 98 so just a stones throw to the water) townhouse, please expect to pay $300,000 for a three bedroom. $250,000 (maybe less) for a two bedroom. These are not unreasonable prices for coastal properties.
You can get a single family home for $200,000----walkable to the beach!! At around $126/sq ft---you can't buy a lot and build for that!!!!
You can buy a BRAND NEW home, walkable to the beach, for $300,000!!!
If you just want a small place to crash for the weekends, away from the noise and stress of a big city------------------you can find something for right around $130,000 (NEGOTIABLE!!!).
DOESN'T SOUND TOO BAD DOES IT!
_________________________________________________________
Our prices have fallen drastically the last two years if you compare to the CRAZY years of 2005, 2006. We are back to our pricing BEFORE the boom. Are we at the bottom? I DON'T KNOW FOR SURE! I know that some of the prices are too high, I know some are reasonable, and I know some sellers are motivated and will make you a great deal! Are you ever going to be able to buy a single family house here for $100,000 again----NO! Are you ever going to be able to buy a gulf front townhouse here for $200,000 again---NO! I'm sorry but normal appreciation dictates that those times are over!
However, if you have been looking and CAN AFFORD a place here NOW , don't let looking and waiting for the "bottom" make you miss the good deals now!
Let me know your price range and I can send you a link to all properties in that price range!
___________________________________________________________
Vacant lots have really dropped as well! Bank financing is not great on vacant lots, but if you have cash or want to have a seller owner financing, you can find a nice size lot for as low as $69,000!
__________________________________________________________
There have been some commercial sales in the area as well! There may be a new restaurant in the area and a retail store as well!!! I'll provide more details as they become available!!!
__________________________________________________________
Well, I pray everyone will have a great rest of the week and a terrific weekend!
Send me an email and let me know what you are looking for!
_______________________________________________________
Go to church on Sunday and remember "When you get to your wit's end, You'll find God lives there."
Thursday, May 22, 2008
I'll let someone else say it!
See, it's not just me telling you it's a good time to buy!
http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20080522_realestateoutlook.htm
___________________________________________________________
Below is a link to a short little video of Chip taking out a 6 hour fishing charter. These guys caught a hammerhead shark and had a great time trying to reel it in. Chip thought it was probably around 9 feet. You really have to watch closely to see the shark because the water wasn't real clear. They got it just about up to the boat when the line got wrapped around its tail and broke! Oh man, what a disappointment. They had a great time trying though!!
Thought some of you might enjoy watching it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EJZGhnUBMU
_________________________________________________________________________
Happy Memorial Day! It looks as if a lot of people will be down this weekend. Hope you are coming!
If you are considering buying........give me a call and let's go look!!
______________________________________________________________________
If God is your co-pilot, swap seats!!
http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20080522_realestateoutlook.htm
___________________________________________________________
Below is a link to a short little video of Chip taking out a 6 hour fishing charter. These guys caught a hammerhead shark and had a great time trying to reel it in. Chip thought it was probably around 9 feet. You really have to watch closely to see the shark because the water wasn't real clear. They got it just about up to the boat when the line got wrapped around its tail and broke! Oh man, what a disappointment. They had a great time trying though!!
Thought some of you might enjoy watching it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3EJZGhnUBMU
_________________________________________________________________________
Happy Memorial Day! It looks as if a lot of people will be down this weekend. Hope you are coming!
If you are considering buying........give me a call and let's go look!!
______________________________________________________________________
If God is your co-pilot, swap seats!!
Friday, May 16, 2008
When will the worm turn???
Let me first say, I appreciate all of you that have been checking out my website! I appreciate the compliments and hope that we will ALL have positive transactions soon!!!
Please do not hesitate to post a question that you have, whether it be about property or just the real estate industry in general. You can bet that if you have that question, there's a zillion others that would like to know the answer as well!
____________________________________________________
There have been 3 properties recently listed and within days........yes just a day or two.........have been put under contract. Of course they were at awesome deals, not steals, just really good deals. The point is there are buyers out there and they are ready to buy. If a seller wants to sell a property in this market it better be priced right!!!
_____________________________________________________________
I have some interesting statistics comparing Jan-May 2007 to this year so far.
By May 1 of 2007 we sold 49 homes , only 27 this year. The interesting part is that the average sale price in 2007 was $379,791. This year, $502,923. We were selling properties at 94% of their asking prices in 2007. This year, we are averaging 83% of the asking price.
The lesson: Don't let those asking prices scare you----MAKE AN OFFER. Unless it is an unusual and one of a kind property, there is going to be one of the 90 zillion other sellers willing to take what you are willing to pay!!
___________________________________________________________
I did have an offer the other day on a property, a very, very low offer. The sellers weren't even willing to consider it and make a counter offer. The buyer's response was "I guess they don't have to make any money". This particular seller is not motivated to sell for much less than her asking price. She would probably take that 83% as stated above, but this offer was much lower than that. Not every seller out there is desperate! There are a lot of them, no doubt, but personally, I believe our prices are coming down enough that you don't have to try to steal something, just make a reasonable offer.
I've been preaching this for months now----if you are an end user, a person wishing to buy a place to USE, or to later build on then you need to be seriously looking. If you are looking to just invest for the next 5 years, then you need to be seriously looking. Everybody needs to get their financing ducks in a row.
If you are looking to buy and resell in the next year.............................you have to wait for a steal. Godspeed.
_____________________________________________________________
I send out emails on what I consider good deals. If you are not on my list, send me a quick email and I'll add you.
________________________________________________________
AN IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE**** If you signed up for my monthly mailers, I have already sent you a response email asking a few basic questions. If you don't respond to my initial email, I may not continue to email you because I am afraid that you may be a "fraud" emailer.
So I please ask you to just respond to my intial email answering some basic questions so that I know what you are looking for. Even if you are not looking to buy for the next 5 years, at least let me know you are alive, well, and wanting information! I Thank you in advance.
I know that most of you are not on the internet 24/7 like I am, but please, just let me know you are at least still interested.
__________________________________________________________
Well, we have had a lot of rain today! Thank you Lord!
Have a great weekend and ..................don't forget to go to church this Sunday.
_________________________________________________________
Quit griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn't belong!
Please do not hesitate to post a question that you have, whether it be about property or just the real estate industry in general. You can bet that if you have that question, there's a zillion others that would like to know the answer as well!
____________________________________________________
There have been 3 properties recently listed and within days........yes just a day or two.........have been put under contract. Of course they were at awesome deals, not steals, just really good deals. The point is there are buyers out there and they are ready to buy. If a seller wants to sell a property in this market it better be priced right!!!
_____________________________________________________________
I have some interesting statistics comparing Jan-May 2007 to this year so far.
By May 1 of 2007 we sold 49 homes , only 27 this year. The interesting part is that the average sale price in 2007 was $379,791. This year, $502,923. We were selling properties at 94% of their asking prices in 2007. This year, we are averaging 83% of the asking price.
The lesson: Don't let those asking prices scare you----MAKE AN OFFER. Unless it is an unusual and one of a kind property, there is going to be one of the 90 zillion other sellers willing to take what you are willing to pay!!
___________________________________________________________
I did have an offer the other day on a property, a very, very low offer. The sellers weren't even willing to consider it and make a counter offer. The buyer's response was "I guess they don't have to make any money". This particular seller is not motivated to sell for much less than her asking price. She would probably take that 83% as stated above, but this offer was much lower than that. Not every seller out there is desperate! There are a lot of them, no doubt, but personally, I believe our prices are coming down enough that you don't have to try to steal something, just make a reasonable offer.
I've been preaching this for months now----if you are an end user, a person wishing to buy a place to USE, or to later build on then you need to be seriously looking. If you are looking to just invest for the next 5 years, then you need to be seriously looking. Everybody needs to get their financing ducks in a row.
If you are looking to buy and resell in the next year.............................you have to wait for a steal. Godspeed.
_____________________________________________________________
I send out emails on what I consider good deals. If you are not on my list, send me a quick email and I'll add you.
________________________________________________________
AN IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE**** If you signed up for my monthly mailers, I have already sent you a response email asking a few basic questions. If you don't respond to my initial email, I may not continue to email you because I am afraid that you may be a "fraud" emailer.
So I please ask you to just respond to my intial email answering some basic questions so that I know what you are looking for. Even if you are not looking to buy for the next 5 years, at least let me know you are alive, well, and wanting information! I Thank you in advance.
I know that most of you are not on the internet 24/7 like I am, but please, just let me know you are at least still interested.
__________________________________________________________
Well, we have had a lot of rain today! Thank you Lord!
Have a great weekend and ..................don't forget to go to church this Sunday.
_________________________________________________________
Quit griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn't belong!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
May Already!
Unbelievably it's almost May. Our weather has been unseasonably cool at night and it has been WONDERFUL! I think we've only turned our AC on once or twice so far this year in the middle of the day. My house is up on stilts and I have an attic fan, so at night, we just open our bedroom window, turn on the attic fan and ACTUALLY HAVE TO COVER UP!! I love it! I love having my windows and doors open able to enjoy the great breeze!
___________________________________________________________
Let me tell you about the hottest real estate deal! A foreclosure, beach side, three bed/3 bath, listed at only $180,000 (yes there is a catch, will tell you about that in a minute). Within HOURS it had MULTIPLE offers! It is under contract for ABOVE the asking price!!!
It was so exciting----calling clients---writing up offers--sending them in.......just like in the HOT days!
Here's the catch-----it was stripped of everything.....Kitchen cabinets, toilets, sinks, interior doors, light switches, carpet.......I'M TALKING EVERYTHING!!! So the buyer has to realistically spend another $30-60K to get it liveable, not including furnishings.
Even so, let's take $180K + 60K = $240k. For a 3/3 new townhouse, beach side.......THAT IS A GOOD DEAL!
And the exciting part is that EVERYBODY knew it was a steal and reacted accordingly.
It is good to know that the buyers are still out there!
I don't think they are going to be many more, if any, as good as that, but there are still good buys out there. GOTTA MAKE THOSE OFFERS TO FIND OUT!
___________________________________________________________
There has been a lot of discussion about short sales within the real estate world lately. It is definitely one of the hot terms now. A short sale is when the mortgage owed is more than what the seller is willing to take, hoping that the bank will forgive the balance of the debt. So all offers are contingent upon their lender accepting the "short sale".
The discussion is, some properties are advertised as a short sale without having any clue as to if the bank is willing to approve any short offer. All banks work these short sale negotiations differently and it can sometimes be a long, drawn out, frustrating experience.
I think that what will happen as a result of bad experiences, talk of Realtor liability..........there will be less and less properties advertised as short sales. So what will happen, is the listing price will be too high to get any action, buyers won't know to make low offers, and the properties will then go into foreclosure.
Also, we have already had a couple of buyers tell us, don't even send me any properties that are short sales, because they refuse to go through that process.
I believe the banks who are unwilling to work with Realtors on these pre-foreclosure properties are just eliminating the potential for these properties to be sold at market value.
Just my opininon!
_____________________________________________________________
There are 12 residential properties under contract in our little area, Mexico Beach to Port St. Joe. Six of these are either short sales, pre-foreclosures or foreclosures, 5 of those are gulf front properties starting at $229K.
____________________________________________________________
I do have a list of short sales and foreclosures. I have sent it out before, and there really aren't any new listings but if you haven't received it, please let me know and I'll send it to you.
I will send it out with my May newsletter as well. Perhaps it will have a few more to add by that time.
____________________________________________________________
I pray everyone will have a wonderful week. Please don't hesitate to call or email me if you are looking to either buy or sell in our area.
_______________________________________________________________
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited, until you try to sit in their pew!!
God Bless,
Mary
850-896-5222
maryblackburn@mchsi.com
___________________________________________________________
Let me tell you about the hottest real estate deal! A foreclosure, beach side, three bed/3 bath, listed at only $180,000 (yes there is a catch, will tell you about that in a minute). Within HOURS it had MULTIPLE offers! It is under contract for ABOVE the asking price!!!
It was so exciting----calling clients---writing up offers--sending them in.......just like in the HOT days!
Here's the catch-----it was stripped of everything.....Kitchen cabinets, toilets, sinks, interior doors, light switches, carpet.......I'M TALKING EVERYTHING!!! So the buyer has to realistically spend another $30-60K to get it liveable, not including furnishings.
Even so, let's take $180K + 60K = $240k. For a 3/3 new townhouse, beach side.......THAT IS A GOOD DEAL!
And the exciting part is that EVERYBODY knew it was a steal and reacted accordingly.
It is good to know that the buyers are still out there!
I don't think they are going to be many more, if any, as good as that, but there are still good buys out there. GOTTA MAKE THOSE OFFERS TO FIND OUT!
___________________________________________________________
There has been a lot of discussion about short sales within the real estate world lately. It is definitely one of the hot terms now. A short sale is when the mortgage owed is more than what the seller is willing to take, hoping that the bank will forgive the balance of the debt. So all offers are contingent upon their lender accepting the "short sale".
The discussion is, some properties are advertised as a short sale without having any clue as to if the bank is willing to approve any short offer. All banks work these short sale negotiations differently and it can sometimes be a long, drawn out, frustrating experience.
I think that what will happen as a result of bad experiences, talk of Realtor liability..........there will be less and less properties advertised as short sales. So what will happen, is the listing price will be too high to get any action, buyers won't know to make low offers, and the properties will then go into foreclosure.
Also, we have already had a couple of buyers tell us, don't even send me any properties that are short sales, because they refuse to go through that process.
I believe the banks who are unwilling to work with Realtors on these pre-foreclosure properties are just eliminating the potential for these properties to be sold at market value.
Just my opininon!
_____________________________________________________________
There are 12 residential properties under contract in our little area, Mexico Beach to Port St. Joe. Six of these are either short sales, pre-foreclosures or foreclosures, 5 of those are gulf front properties starting at $229K.
____________________________________________________________
I do have a list of short sales and foreclosures. I have sent it out before, and there really aren't any new listings but if you haven't received it, please let me know and I'll send it to you.
I will send it out with my May newsletter as well. Perhaps it will have a few more to add by that time.
____________________________________________________________
I pray everyone will have a wonderful week. Please don't hesitate to call or email me if you are looking to either buy or sell in our area.
_______________________________________________________________
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited, until you try to sit in their pew!!
God Bless,
Mary
850-896-5222
maryblackburn@mchsi.com
Thursday, April 17, 2008
GOOD NEWS FOR ST. JOE BEACH
City sewer is finally coming to St. Joe Beach! I've been living in Mexico Beach for over 20 years and I can always remember people saying "in a couple years, St. Joe Beach will have city sewer!" Well it is definitely happening now--its written in black and white and the paperwork has already started!!!
- Construction to begin in the fall of 2008
- Completion and operational by June 2009
If you have own a residence or want to own a residence in St. Joe Beach here's the most important point:
- The initial charge to hook up will be $500. YOU MUST SIGN UP NOW THOUGH!!!
- You have until January of 2009 to actually pay.
- You have until July of 2008 to to sign up for this initial charge.
Otherwise your charges will be:
- Vacant lots: $2,270. Monthly service fees will not begin until service is requested
- Grinder stations will cost $2,280
I have a report that gives all of this information. Let me know if you want me to send it to you!
I believe this will have a large impact on property values in St. Joe Beach!! St. Joe Beach is in gulf county. Lower taxes, different zoning--everything in St. Joe Beach is zoned for mobile homes or single family homes and mixed commercial residential.
New subdivisions, of course, have their own covenants and restrictions but if not in a subdivision you can still put an RV anywhere in St. Joe Beach. They already have city water and in a year they will have city sewer!
Gulf County is golf cart friendly---you can be at the beach in a few minutes from anywhere in St. Joe Beach!!!
If you are looking to buy-----this is the time!!!
Please let me know if I can be of any help!!
Thanks,
Mary
Don'tlet your worries get the best of you; remember, Moses started out as a basket case!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Happy Spring
Spring has sprung although the mornings don't feel all that springy to me! Frost on the pumpkin this morning! Absolutely gorgeous this afternoon though!
Chip's out fishing today, has trips booked all week! Catching loads of snapper, which he has to throw back, but did manage to boat a good size grouper!
________________________________________________
I read an article from a David P. Butler --creonline.com-- talking about the market. He was writing in general terms about how this is not the bottom of the market. However, he did say that when prices are 30-50% down from 2005,2006 THAT would be the bottom. Well, my friends, WE ARE THERE!
It is not unusual to see properties now selling at 50% of what they were purchased for, appraised for and even 2nd mortgaged for in 2004-2006.
Mobile homes walkable to the beach at $100K (selling for $300k a couple years ago) Beachside townhomes under $200K (selling for 375K a couple of years ago), single family homes under $200K (selling for $350K a few years ago), gulf front homes a little over $800k(selling for $1.6 a few years ago) , vacant lots at $65K (selling for $225K a few years ago).
And buyers are finding out! Realtors in the area are showing property and buyers are making offers!! 16 residential properties are under contract at this time in just our little area of the beaches. Some properties only on the market for a few days!!
Many of these properties are short sales or foreclosures. However these properties will continue to set the market value for others.
I do believe we are at the bottom of the market. I also believe we will now stabilize for at least the rest of the year. I am not going to predict when appreciation will start. We have a large inventory of homes so it will take a while to reduce that inventory and appreciation will not occur until the supply decreases. I do predict though that those sellers who are not in a hurry to sell and will not settle for the market value at this time will take their properties off the market and wait it out.
Investors have already hit the area and are buying properties in bulk. Please do not wait too long if you want a place at the beach!!
My advice..........find your price point, look for properties in that price range and once you find a property that makes you happy------------make an offer in your price range.
Do not be one of those who for the last ten years have said-----I'm going to wait for the bottom--and then they wait too long and miss out.
_________________________________________________________
I will be happy to send you a list of the foreclosures and short sales in the area as well as the best deals on the market. Let me know what you are looking for and I'll find it for you!!
Have a great week!
Mary
Chip's out fishing today, has trips booked all week! Catching loads of snapper, which he has to throw back, but did manage to boat a good size grouper!
________________________________________________
I read an article from a David P. Butler --creonline.com-- talking about the market. He was writing in general terms about how this is not the bottom of the market. However, he did say that when prices are 30-50% down from 2005,2006 THAT would be the bottom. Well, my friends, WE ARE THERE!
It is not unusual to see properties now selling at 50% of what they were purchased for, appraised for and even 2nd mortgaged for in 2004-2006.
Mobile homes walkable to the beach at $100K (selling for $300k a couple years ago) Beachside townhomes under $200K (selling for 375K a couple of years ago), single family homes under $200K (selling for $350K a few years ago), gulf front homes a little over $800k(selling for $1.6 a few years ago) , vacant lots at $65K (selling for $225K a few years ago).
And buyers are finding out! Realtors in the area are showing property and buyers are making offers!! 16 residential properties are under contract at this time in just our little area of the beaches. Some properties only on the market for a few days!!
Many of these properties are short sales or foreclosures. However these properties will continue to set the market value for others.
I do believe we are at the bottom of the market. I also believe we will now stabilize for at least the rest of the year. I am not going to predict when appreciation will start. We have a large inventory of homes so it will take a while to reduce that inventory and appreciation will not occur until the supply decreases. I do predict though that those sellers who are not in a hurry to sell and will not settle for the market value at this time will take their properties off the market and wait it out.
Investors have already hit the area and are buying properties in bulk. Please do not wait too long if you want a place at the beach!!
My advice..........find your price point, look for properties in that price range and once you find a property that makes you happy------------make an offer in your price range.
Do not be one of those who for the last ten years have said-----I'm going to wait for the bottom--and then they wait too long and miss out.
_________________________________________________________
I will be happy to send you a list of the foreclosures and short sales in the area as well as the best deals on the market. Let me know what you are looking for and I'll find it for you!!
Have a great week!
Mary
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Happy Valentines Day
I know that none of you men need reminding but.........Valentine's Day is February 14th, next Thursday!
_________________________________________________________
I believe this year is off to a good real estate start! We've had more activity in the first two months of 2008 than we did in the last 4-5 months of 2007!!!
I believe we have 9 residential properties under contract right now and several offers are being thrown around this weekend.
_________________________________________________________________
I am sure I am like many of you----chomping at the bit to buy something.....there are some exceptional deals out there----however, I own too much real estate now and can't really buy anything else unless I sell something first! It is definitely a vicious circle!
Last year we sold pretty much exclusively to "end users". Buyers who are going to use the property for the next 15 years! Even if their property value has lowered a bit since they purchased it certainly will appreciate greatly in the next 15 years.
I continually repeat myself when I say......real estate is a great long term investment.......you can pretty much count on better than the average CD rate appreciation----long term.
If you are an "end-user" I truly believe you can't go wrong purchasing now. I've got some great deals----call me!
The "flipping" is practically over although you may still be able to find a property at such a good price that it is still possible. You just have to be brave enough to make those low offers!
There have been some investors getting back into the game in our area. As you recall, this is why the market sky rocketed so quickly last time. We are no where near that right now, but be careful, if you wait until the investors are back in full force, you will be too late!
_____________________________________________________________
Foreclosures and short sales: We now have 21 foreclosures, short sales, or estate sales in the Beaches to Port St. Joe area that I am aware of. There are probably a few more.
1 of those just closed in the last few days---more than $50K off the asking price.
4 more of those are under contract.
5 of those are gulf front properties--------if you are looking for a gulf front deal....here they are....give me a call!!!!!!
I've got some customers who are looking ONLY at foreclosures. I think this is a mistake, especially since they are end-users! I think there are equally good deals out there that aren't foreclosures, you just have to be willing to make the offer of what you think that property is worth. If the seller doesn't take it and you can't reach an agreement, simply move on!
____________________________________________________________
The media has us in a recession. Its amazing the power the media has! I've talked to several service related people lately and they say the opposite---they are busy and have a good feeling about this year!!! I've also talked to several contractors who service commercial developments and they say the same thing, just as busy as ever!!!
I think Americans should "tighten up" their purse strings and save more anyway, perhaps we should continue to believe we are all doomed and maybe that would get many of you (not me, I don't use credit cards!) to stop using your credit cards!
Bush has passed a "stimulus" package to get people to start spending more. Perhaps instead of saying spending more, we should say "investing wisely". I think that is where we go wrong, lets not just push haphazard, frivolous spending, but let's encourage people to invest---whether it be in real estate, or a savings account!
______________________________________________________________
Well, I pray everyone has a wonderful weekend and upcoming week.
Remember to count your blessings and kiss your loved ones!
Please feel free to call or email me anytime.
Thank you for your continued business!
Mary
_________________________________________________________
I believe this year is off to a good real estate start! We've had more activity in the first two months of 2008 than we did in the last 4-5 months of 2007!!!
I believe we have 9 residential properties under contract right now and several offers are being thrown around this weekend.
_________________________________________________________________
I am sure I am like many of you----chomping at the bit to buy something.....there are some exceptional deals out there----however, I own too much real estate now and can't really buy anything else unless I sell something first! It is definitely a vicious circle!
Last year we sold pretty much exclusively to "end users". Buyers who are going to use the property for the next 15 years! Even if their property value has lowered a bit since they purchased it certainly will appreciate greatly in the next 15 years.
I continually repeat myself when I say......real estate is a great long term investment.......you can pretty much count on better than the average CD rate appreciation----long term.
If you are an "end-user" I truly believe you can't go wrong purchasing now. I've got some great deals----call me!
The "flipping" is practically over although you may still be able to find a property at such a good price that it is still possible. You just have to be brave enough to make those low offers!
There have been some investors getting back into the game in our area. As you recall, this is why the market sky rocketed so quickly last time. We are no where near that right now, but be careful, if you wait until the investors are back in full force, you will be too late!
_____________________________________________________________
Foreclosures and short sales: We now have 21 foreclosures, short sales, or estate sales in the Beaches to Port St. Joe area that I am aware of. There are probably a few more.
1 of those just closed in the last few days---more than $50K off the asking price.
4 more of those are under contract.
5 of those are gulf front properties--------if you are looking for a gulf front deal....here they are....give me a call!!!!!!
I've got some customers who are looking ONLY at foreclosures. I think this is a mistake, especially since they are end-users! I think there are equally good deals out there that aren't foreclosures, you just have to be willing to make the offer of what you think that property is worth. If the seller doesn't take it and you can't reach an agreement, simply move on!
____________________________________________________________
The media has us in a recession. Its amazing the power the media has! I've talked to several service related people lately and they say the opposite---they are busy and have a good feeling about this year!!! I've also talked to several contractors who service commercial developments and they say the same thing, just as busy as ever!!!
I think Americans should "tighten up" their purse strings and save more anyway, perhaps we should continue to believe we are all doomed and maybe that would get many of you (not me, I don't use credit cards!) to stop using your credit cards!
Bush has passed a "stimulus" package to get people to start spending more. Perhaps instead of saying spending more, we should say "investing wisely". I think that is where we go wrong, lets not just push haphazard, frivolous spending, but let's encourage people to invest---whether it be in real estate, or a savings account!
______________________________________________________________
Well, I pray everyone has a wonderful weekend and upcoming week.
Remember to count your blessings and kiss your loved ones!
Please feel free to call or email me anytime.
Thank you for your continued business!
Mary
Friday, February 01, 2008
Happy February!
Does anyone out there listen to Dave Ramsey?
He is a multimillionaire who preaches being debt free. He's a christian and bases his advice on handling money from a christian perspective.
He has a show on Fox business and I am now addicted to watching him. He has empathy for those people who have fallen on tough financial times but he is hard as nails on the people who just squander money and have credit card debt up the yazoo!
His advice is hard but has really turned a lot of people around financially. He basically TEACHES how to handle money-----I believe the education system has missed the mark on this one as evidenced by the massive amounts of credit card debt in America.
How does this connect with real estate?
He was a Realtor at one time and has bought and sold, I'm sure, millions and millions of dollars worth of real estate.
I was watching him the other night and he was saying that now is a great time to be buying!!!!!
I wish I had a recording of that!!
He said with the low interest rates and the price reductions he is certainly going to be investing.
He also says "Do not buy unless you are going to be able to hang on to it for at least 5 years".
I have always said the same thing. Real estate is a great long term investment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's amazing to me how the mainstream media touts bad economy, recession, depression........
But the conditions for investing in real estate couldn't be any better---ask those that know!
______________________________________________________
Amendment 1 has passed with an overwhelming majority!
This new property tax amendment increases the homestead exemption to $50,000. Gives Florida homeowners homestead portabilty, puts a 10% cap on property taxes for investment property, gives business owners a $25,000 exemption on tangible property.
These are all good things, but just a start. There is a new push for further reform, which is sorely needed. The new focus is for 1.35% cap on all property taxes and for reform as to how property is assessed!!
If you are not on my email database for updates on this property tax issue, just send me a quick email and I'll pass along all the information I receive!
________________________________________________________
Let me just re-state----there are some awesome deals out there!
Give me a call or an email and let's do some business!!!
Have a fantastic weekend!!
Go to church on Sunday!
Mary
Does anyone out there listen to Dave Ramsey?
He is a multimillionaire who preaches being debt free. He's a christian and bases his advice on handling money from a christian perspective.
He has a show on Fox business and I am now addicted to watching him. He has empathy for those people who have fallen on tough financial times but he is hard as nails on the people who just squander money and have credit card debt up the yazoo!
His advice is hard but has really turned a lot of people around financially. He basically TEACHES how to handle money-----I believe the education system has missed the mark on this one as evidenced by the massive amounts of credit card debt in America.
How does this connect with real estate?
He was a Realtor at one time and has bought and sold, I'm sure, millions and millions of dollars worth of real estate.
I was watching him the other night and he was saying that now is a great time to be buying!!!!!
I wish I had a recording of that!!
He said with the low interest rates and the price reductions he is certainly going to be investing.
He also says "Do not buy unless you are going to be able to hang on to it for at least 5 years".
I have always said the same thing. Real estate is a great long term investment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's amazing to me how the mainstream media touts bad economy, recession, depression........
But the conditions for investing in real estate couldn't be any better---ask those that know!
______________________________________________________
Amendment 1 has passed with an overwhelming majority!
This new property tax amendment increases the homestead exemption to $50,000. Gives Florida homeowners homestead portabilty, puts a 10% cap on property taxes for investment property, gives business owners a $25,000 exemption on tangible property.
These are all good things, but just a start. There is a new push for further reform, which is sorely needed. The new focus is for 1.35% cap on all property taxes and for reform as to how property is assessed!!
If you are not on my email database for updates on this property tax issue, just send me a quick email and I'll pass along all the information I receive!
________________________________________________________
Let me just re-state----there are some awesome deals out there!
Give me a call or an email and let's do some business!!!
Have a fantastic weekend!!
Go to church on Sunday!
Mary
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Happy 2008!
I hate to be cliche but...........Time really does fly!
I can't believe 2007 is over already and we are almost into the 2nd month of 2008!
I pray everyone had wonderful holidays!!
I sent out my end of the year newsletter at the end of December in which I relayed all the statistics about the real estate market for 2007. In summary, we had more than twice the sales in 2007 as compared to 2006. Due mostly to the fact that prices have come down!!!
Just about all sales were end users, meaning just regular folk who want a primary or 2nd home/lot at the beach to enjoy for many many years!!!
Prices have come down even more. There are exceptional deals out there for those that are brave enough to make offers. You don't know what a seller is willing to take until you make that first offer!!
Investors are coming back. Savvy investors buy when the market is down. They buy when everybody else is selling.
As I have said a zillion times before.........we don't know where the bottom of the market is until it starts to go back up. If you are looking for a piece of paradise here at the beach, I honestly believe you can't go wrong buying now. Real estate is a great long term investment---if you are going to buy a lot to build on later, if you are buying a house to live in for the next 5-10 years, if you are buying a place to spend your next 20 vacations................buying now is a great investment. Prices are down, sellers are negotiating, interest rates are down........Once investors are back in the game (and they are looking now!!!) Sellers will not be so negotiable.
Our listing prices are still all over the place. We have some sellers that have come down to reality and have their properties listed at realistic prices. We have some sellers that still say "well, they can always make a lower offer". This theory has not worked for the last two years and is not working well now. The list price must be reasonable for most people will not make an offer that is 30-50% off the asking price. However, there have been some contracts written for just that much off the asking price!!!!!!!!!
We have had a busy year so far and we are just getting started! Lots of people looking to buy!!
Several properties under contract in the last couple of weeks and several more are being negotiated as we speak.
It's amazing to me how many people found Mexico Beach by just driving the coast, fell in love with it and bought! Of course, how can you not fall in love with Mexico Beach!! I truly thank God for letting me live here!!
I can't believe 2007 is over already and we are almost into the 2nd month of 2008!
I pray everyone had wonderful holidays!!
I sent out my end of the year newsletter at the end of December in which I relayed all the statistics about the real estate market for 2007. In summary, we had more than twice the sales in 2007 as compared to 2006. Due mostly to the fact that prices have come down!!!
Just about all sales were end users, meaning just regular folk who want a primary or 2nd home/lot at the beach to enjoy for many many years!!!
Prices have come down even more. There are exceptional deals out there for those that are brave enough to make offers. You don't know what a seller is willing to take until you make that first offer!!
Investors are coming back. Savvy investors buy when the market is down. They buy when everybody else is selling.
As I have said a zillion times before.........we don't know where the bottom of the market is until it starts to go back up. If you are looking for a piece of paradise here at the beach, I honestly believe you can't go wrong buying now. Real estate is a great long term investment---if you are going to buy a lot to build on later, if you are buying a house to live in for the next 5-10 years, if you are buying a place to spend your next 20 vacations................buying now is a great investment. Prices are down, sellers are negotiating, interest rates are down........Once investors are back in the game (and they are looking now!!!) Sellers will not be so negotiable.
Our listing prices are still all over the place. We have some sellers that have come down to reality and have their properties listed at realistic prices. We have some sellers that still say "well, they can always make a lower offer". This theory has not worked for the last two years and is not working well now. The list price must be reasonable for most people will not make an offer that is 30-50% off the asking price. However, there have been some contracts written for just that much off the asking price!!!!!!!!!
We have had a busy year so far and we are just getting started! Lots of people looking to buy!!
Several properties under contract in the last couple of weeks and several more are being negotiated as we speak.
It's amazing to me how many people found Mexico Beach by just driving the coast, fell in love with it and bought! Of course, how can you not fall in love with Mexico Beach!! I truly thank God for letting me live here!!
- The fact that you can walk to the beach in a matter of minutes from just about anywhere.
- No highrises blocking the water.
- No ugly commercialism lining the streets
- Public beach access everywhere!
- I love the temperature here----we still have a few days each season that remind us we have 4 seasons-------and the rest of the time its hot!!!
- White sand and blue green water!
- Laid back atmosphere and attitude!
I watch the HGTV shows where people are paying $500,000 for a new home in WISCONSIN, or BOSTON or MINNESOTA. The temperature in those places right now is 5 DEGREES BELOW ZERO!!!
Can you tell I'm not a cold weather person! You can buy a house here for $200,000 and be at the beach in a 5 minute walk! You can buy a new gulf front condo here and have panoramic views of the coast!
I believe I'll stay!!!
Have a fantastic rest of the week and weekend!!
As always, don't hesitate to call or email me anytime with questions, concerns, viewpoints, or your wish list. My website has all the properties on the market so check back often.
If you would like me to add something to my website that would be beneficial to my customers, please let me know!!!
God Bless,
Mary
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Merry Christmas!
Here's to keeping Christ in Christmas!!!!!!!!
Well, the lights and decorations are going up around town! The city park next to the El Governor hotel has a beautiful display. Be sure to drive by at night if you are in town.
I truly pray that you will remember the reason for the season during the hustle and bustle!
___________________________________
As for real estate..........this time of year we are pretty much down to one kind of buyer---the kind who needs to get rid of some money before the end of the year!!! These buyers usually go for gulf front. Therefore several of our gulf front properties are now under contract.
And at some very good prices!!!!!!
_____________________________________
We are seeing a few foreclosed properties. Most of the foreclosed properties are on our MLS system. Because the original mortgage was higher than the market value, the mortgage company buys the property back and then lists them for sale with a Realtor. If you are interested in a foreclosed property, just send me a quick email. I send out daily emails of properties that I think are good deals. I always include the properties that have been foreclosed on.
__________________________________
There are many properties that will be "short sales". These are properties that the owners are listing below their mortgage payoff. When an offer is made the sellers take that contract to the lender to see if they will accept this lower amount and "forgive" them the balance of the debt.
These properties are usually at market value but always much less than what it was last sold for.
____________________________________
I just read that some lenders have agreed to freeze their adjustable rates for 5 years for those borrowers with loans made between Jan. 1, 2005, through July 30 of this year who face interest rate resets between Jan. 1, 2008, and July 31, 2010.
Hopefully this will prevent some foreclosures.
________________________________________________________________
I am always being asked "Have you sold ANYTHING this year?" Of course I have!! Otherwise I would be sitting at another desk in a different profession! Sales in Mexico Beach are much slower than in 2004-2005, however, they are better than in 2006!!
A property usually must meet 3 criteria for a sale. CONDITION, LOCATION, PRICE.
However, in this market right now, I've added a 4th criteria because of the huge inventory. It must have something special than the other competing properties.
If you are trying to sell a property, please carefully consider those 4 criteria----pricing is extremely important!!!!!!!!
_______________________________________________________________
Well, the lights and decorations are going up around town! The city park next to the El Governor hotel has a beautiful display. Be sure to drive by at night if you are in town.
I truly pray that you will remember the reason for the season during the hustle and bustle!
___________________________________
As for real estate..........this time of year we are pretty much down to one kind of buyer---the kind who needs to get rid of some money before the end of the year!!! These buyers usually go for gulf front. Therefore several of our gulf front properties are now under contract.
And at some very good prices!!!!!!
_____________________________________
We are seeing a few foreclosed properties. Most of the foreclosed properties are on our MLS system. Because the original mortgage was higher than the market value, the mortgage company buys the property back and then lists them for sale with a Realtor. If you are interested in a foreclosed property, just send me a quick email. I send out daily emails of properties that I think are good deals. I always include the properties that have been foreclosed on.
__________________________________
There are many properties that will be "short sales". These are properties that the owners are listing below their mortgage payoff. When an offer is made the sellers take that contract to the lender to see if they will accept this lower amount and "forgive" them the balance of the debt.
These properties are usually at market value but always much less than what it was last sold for.
____________________________________
I just read that some lenders have agreed to freeze their adjustable rates for 5 years for those borrowers with loans made between Jan. 1, 2005, through July 30 of this year who face interest rate resets between Jan. 1, 2008, and July 31, 2010.
Hopefully this will prevent some foreclosures.
________________________________________________________________
I am always being asked "Have you sold ANYTHING this year?" Of course I have!! Otherwise I would be sitting at another desk in a different profession! Sales in Mexico Beach are much slower than in 2004-2005, however, they are better than in 2006!!
A property usually must meet 3 criteria for a sale. CONDITION, LOCATION, PRICE.
However, in this market right now, I've added a 4th criteria because of the huge inventory. It must have something special than the other competing properties.
If you are trying to sell a property, please carefully consider those 4 criteria----pricing is extremely important!!!!!!!!
______________________________________________________________
While I'm on the subject of pricing........as a Realtor, I provide "comps" for my customers to help them establish a list price. However, the seller makes the decision as to what to list their property at. Sometimes they listen to our advice and sometimes they don't.
I've heard many people say that "the Realtors overpriced everything and ran the market up". I can only wish I have that much power! We can give advice and opinions but we are not the ones who make the ultimate decision on what a property is listed or sold for!
There are many Realtors who are also investors. I am one. I have bought and sold many properties in my lifetime and continue to do so. Realtors are people too!!!!!!! I have however, always been on the conservative side of investing. I have always bought properties that I was willing and able to hang on to for at least 2-5 years. Many times I didn't have to hang on that long but I made sure that I could afford to do so if I needed to. Real estate purchased with this mind set has always proven to be a good investment for me!!!
_______________________________________________________________
If you are in the market to buy, I hope that you are seriously considering it in this buyer's market!! Don't wait too long! It's a great time to make offers--if they aren't accepted at a price you are willing to pay then you can afford to wait or move on to a different property!
Interest rates are still very good!
_______________________________________________________________
As always, check out my website, send me an email and LET'S DO SOME BUSINESS!
You can't find a more relaxing place than Mexico Beach and life is too short to spend all of it in traffic!!!!!!!!
___________________________________________________________
Have a very Merry Christmas and safe New Year!
Jesus is the reason for the season!
Mary
_______________________________________________________________
Monday, November 12, 2007
God Bless the Veterans!
Happy Veteran's day! I just want to say to all vets---Thank you for your service and may God richly bless you for it! I know that I have been blessed because of your sacrifice. My brother and father are veterans and, of course, I know many more. It amazes me how unpretentious they are when talking about their service for our country and no matter how "unpleasant" the circumstances of their duty, they would do it again in a minute!
Again, thank you for making this the greatest country in the world!!
___________________________________________________________________
I always have to brag on the weather so.......MAN IT IS BEAUTIFUL HERE! My house is up on stilts so I usually catch a good breeze. We haven't had our AC on for a month now and I only turned the heat on for a few minutes in the morning one time just to warm the house up a little.
I love the time of year when I can keep the windows open!!!! Its been in the lower to mid 70's and sunny throughout the day, but getting down to a "freezing" 55 or so at night!!!
___________________________________________________________________
Well, lets get down to the nuts and bolts of this blog---Real Estate!
Looks as if the mortgage industry is working with the foreclosures any way they can. The banks don't want to own property, certainly not overpriced property!!!! We have several deals going on right now that are "short sales". This means that the banks are willing to take a loss on the property, the selling price is less than the mortgage amount. Short sales usually take a longer time to transact simply because the purchase contract has to be approved by the bank and we all know that it is not a simple phone call with a yes or no response. However, the banks are willing to work with us simply because it saves them the legal fees of a foreclosure and they know that buyers are few and far between so once you have a buyer-----let's make it work!!!
____________________________________________________________________
The age old debate of "is this the bottom" continues. I heard that sales price were going to decline another 3% throughout Florida. Hopefully, you are not letting that stop you from making offers!! Most sellers are willing to negotiate much more than that on their current list price. The last few contracts I've worked have been right around 15% off the list price.
I firmly believe that if you are buying property with the intentions of using now, or holding on to for at least 3-5 years, you can't go wrong to buy now. Of course, that means, if you are buying to "flip" within a couple of years and make a huge profit-------I don't encourage you to buy now unless you find that "one in a million" deal.
___________________________________________________________________
Mexico Beach has always been a market for "end-users". End-users are people who buy a place to use as a vacation/weekend place. It astounds me how many Georgia folks drive down here almost every weekend!!! We also sell to people who know they want to retire here. There have always been a few "investors" who buy low and sell high. Those investors came in droves and ravaged our area a couple of years ago and we will pay the price for many years to come. However, those "flipping" days are over.
Once the market completely stabilizes we will back to the normal coastal rate of appreciation. Which has always been a good long term return on your money!!!
Those who got caught up in the frenzy and bought at the height of the market are paying the price right now--------however, even some of them will be okay, if they can hang on long enough!!!!
_____________________________________________________________________
There are some exceptional deals on the market right now. And just about every MLS info sheet says "Seller motivated" "Will look at all offers"!!
I don't want anybody to purchase something they can't afford. The best thing to do is figure out your bottom dollar. If you have to finance, get pre-approved. Then tell your Realtor what you are looking for and the amount you can spend. Of course, your Realtor is going to send you properties that are higher than what you want to spend, that's because they know you can always offer less!!!!!
___________________________________________________________________
So, I know my job is to sell you something---but I only want to sell you something you want!
And who doesn't want a place near the beach???? Remember, you don't have to be right on the water to enjoy our area. Just about every house is walkable or golf cart ridable (is that a word?) to the beach in just a few minutes. We have 3bed/2 bath townhouses starting at $130,000!
If you haven't emailed me with your "wish list" yet, please do and I'll do my best to find you what you want for the price you want. If I can't find it right away, I'll keep looking until you tell me to stop!!!!
___________________________________________________________________
As always, feel free to browse my website and give me a call anytime!!!!
Thanks, Have a fantastic week and remember "With God all things are possible!"
Again, thank you for making this the greatest country in the world!!
___________________________________________________________________
I always have to brag on the weather so.......MAN IT IS BEAUTIFUL HERE! My house is up on stilts so I usually catch a good breeze. We haven't had our AC on for a month now and I only turned the heat on for a few minutes in the morning one time just to warm the house up a little.
I love the time of year when I can keep the windows open!!!! Its been in the lower to mid 70's and sunny throughout the day, but getting down to a "freezing" 55 or so at night!!!
___________________________________________________________________
Well, lets get down to the nuts and bolts of this blog---Real Estate!
Looks as if the mortgage industry is working with the foreclosures any way they can. The banks don't want to own property, certainly not overpriced property!!!! We have several deals going on right now that are "short sales". This means that the banks are willing to take a loss on the property, the selling price is less than the mortgage amount. Short sales usually take a longer time to transact simply because the purchase contract has to be approved by the bank and we all know that it is not a simple phone call with a yes or no response. However, the banks are willing to work with us simply because it saves them the legal fees of a foreclosure and they know that buyers are few and far between so once you have a buyer-----let's make it work!!!
____________________________________________________________________
The age old debate of "is this the bottom" continues. I heard that sales price were going to decline another 3% throughout Florida. Hopefully, you are not letting that stop you from making offers!! Most sellers are willing to negotiate much more than that on their current list price. The last few contracts I've worked have been right around 15% off the list price.
I firmly believe that if you are buying property with the intentions of using now, or holding on to for at least 3-5 years, you can't go wrong to buy now. Of course, that means, if you are buying to "flip" within a couple of years and make a huge profit-------I don't encourage you to buy now unless you find that "one in a million" deal.
___________________________________________________________________
Mexico Beach has always been a market for "end-users". End-users are people who buy a place to use as a vacation/weekend place. It astounds me how many Georgia folks drive down here almost every weekend!!! We also sell to people who know they want to retire here. There have always been a few "investors" who buy low and sell high. Those investors came in droves and ravaged our area a couple of years ago and we will pay the price for many years to come. However, those "flipping" days are over.
Once the market completely stabilizes we will back to the normal coastal rate of appreciation. Which has always been a good long term return on your money!!!
Those who got caught up in the frenzy and bought at the height of the market are paying the price right now--------however, even some of them will be okay, if they can hang on long enough!!!!
_____________________________________________________________________
There are some exceptional deals on the market right now. And just about every MLS info sheet says "Seller motivated" "Will look at all offers"!!
I don't want anybody to purchase something they can't afford. The best thing to do is figure out your bottom dollar. If you have to finance, get pre-approved. Then tell your Realtor what you are looking for and the amount you can spend. Of course, your Realtor is going to send you properties that are higher than what you want to spend, that's because they know you can always offer less!!!!!
___________________________________________________________________
So, I know my job is to sell you something---but I only want to sell you something you want!
And who doesn't want a place near the beach???? Remember, you don't have to be right on the water to enjoy our area. Just about every house is walkable or golf cart ridable (is that a word?) to the beach in just a few minutes. We have 3bed/2 bath townhouses starting at $130,000!
If you haven't emailed me with your "wish list" yet, please do and I'll do my best to find you what you want for the price you want. If I can't find it right away, I'll keep looking until you tell me to stop!!!!
___________________________________________________________________
As always, feel free to browse my website and give me a call anytime!!!!
Thanks, Have a fantastic week and remember "With God all things are possible!"
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
I Love This Weather!
Our weather has been gorgeous! Cool enough to even turn off the AC at night! I love this time of year! Makes me want to work in the yard all day!!!! Its still been pretty warm in the middle of the day but isn't THAT WHY I MOVED HERE!!
I just want to remind everybody about the Mexico Beach Annual Art and Wine Festival this weekend-the 20th! $10 per person at the Driftwood Inn right on the beach. Definitely a good time showcasing many local artists. There is a silent auction as well! This has become one of the most popular events, so stop by if you have a chance!
__________________________________________________________________
As for real estate in the area..................
We are back to 2004 prices! The average sales price in 2004 was $359K, in 2005 $542K, in 2006 $411K and now in 2007 $366K!!!!!
For some reason people are under the assumption that properties are not selling here. There have been 91 residential sales thus far in 2007 in just the Mexico Beach, St. Joe Beach area. That doesn't include vacant lots. We still have a couple of months to go! There were only 44 residential sales all year last year!
We have put several properties under contract in the last few days alone! The buyers are slowly but surely coming back!! We are not knocking any socks off but we are definitely selling in the Mexico Beach area.
We will always sell property here----look what we have. Virtually no traffic, no high rises, just beautiful beaches, and peace and quiet. People will always be drawn to this area!
I hear from Panama City and Destin folks every week that Mexico Beach is a refreshing step back in time!
________________________________________________________________
There are some awesome deals out here right now. Sellers are really motivated and you have to be a little gutsy to make some low offers-----quick clean contracts are getting the best deals of course. For instance, a fixer upper mobile home just 3 blocks from the beach at $135,000.
It needs a lot of work but there are folks out there who, if they can do it themselves, can have a place at the beach for an affordable price. I'd make an offer of $100K cash and who knows!!!!!
On the other pricing scale: A 5 bed gulf front home listed at $985K. He might be willing to take off at least $100K off that!!!!!!!!!!
There's a gulf front 3 bed condo---stunning views, elevator, pool listed at $599K. I'd be willing to bet you could get it for $500K!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
_________________________________________________________________
I email what I consider to be some great prices to my database almost every day! If you want to be included on that database, just send me a quick email. If you could, please give me some kind of idea as to what you are looking for. I don't just send out my listings. I send out good deals!
I honestly think there is something here for just about every price range!!!!!
_______________________________________________________________
As always, check out my website, send me a quick email!!
And.......................go to church this Sunday!!!
Mary
I just want to remind everybody about the Mexico Beach Annual Art and Wine Festival this weekend-the 20th! $10 per person at the Driftwood Inn right on the beach. Definitely a good time showcasing many local artists. There is a silent auction as well! This has become one of the most popular events, so stop by if you have a chance!
__________________________________________________________________
As for real estate in the area..................
We are back to 2004 prices! The average sales price in 2004 was $359K, in 2005 $542K, in 2006 $411K and now in 2007 $366K!!!!!
For some reason people are under the assumption that properties are not selling here. There have been 91 residential sales thus far in 2007 in just the Mexico Beach, St. Joe Beach area. That doesn't include vacant lots. We still have a couple of months to go! There were only 44 residential sales all year last year!
We have put several properties under contract in the last few days alone! The buyers are slowly but surely coming back!! We are not knocking any socks off but we are definitely selling in the Mexico Beach area.
We will always sell property here----look what we have. Virtually no traffic, no high rises, just beautiful beaches, and peace and quiet. People will always be drawn to this area!
I hear from Panama City and Destin folks every week that Mexico Beach is a refreshing step back in time!
________________________________________________________________
There are some awesome deals out here right now. Sellers are really motivated and you have to be a little gutsy to make some low offers-----quick clean contracts are getting the best deals of course. For instance, a fixer upper mobile home just 3 blocks from the beach at $135,000.
It needs a lot of work but there are folks out there who, if they can do it themselves, can have a place at the beach for an affordable price. I'd make an offer of $100K cash and who knows!!!!!
On the other pricing scale: A 5 bed gulf front home listed at $985K. He might be willing to take off at least $100K off that!!!!!!!!!!
There's a gulf front 3 bed condo---stunning views, elevator, pool listed at $599K. I'd be willing to bet you could get it for $500K!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
_________________________________________________________________
I email what I consider to be some great prices to my database almost every day! If you want to be included on that database, just send me a quick email. If you could, please give me some kind of idea as to what you are looking for. I don't just send out my listings. I send out good deals!
I honestly think there is something here for just about every price range!!!!!
_______________________________________________________________
As always, check out my website, send me a quick email!!
And.......................go to church this Sunday!!!
Mary
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Fall is Coming
Our weather has been gorgeous the last few days. Much cooler in the mornings, still getting pretty warm in the middle of the day though! We did have a couple days of rain, which was an absolute blessing! It amazes me how much better plants grow when they get rain as opposed to me watering them!
_________________________________________________________
Good news! The Feds have cut interest rates. Interest rates were already pretty good but with the sub prime mortgage issue, people still weren't borrowing. When the real estate market is down it affects a multitude of other industries---the mortgage industry, the construction industry all the way down to the service industry that is real estate related, plumbers, electricians, housekeepers..........
The reaction from the federal reserve to cut interest rates is in response to the toll all of these industries have taken and is hoping that it will have a positive effect!
So let's see.
_________________________________________________________
Good news! The Feds have cut interest rates. Interest rates were already pretty good but with the sub prime mortgage issue, people still weren't borrowing. When the real estate market is down it affects a multitude of other industries---the mortgage industry, the construction industry all the way down to the service industry that is real estate related, plumbers, electricians, housekeepers..........
The reaction from the federal reserve to cut interest rates is in response to the toll all of these industries have taken and is hoping that it will have a positive effect!
So let's see.
- The cost of housing is down (about 26% in our area)
- The inventory is up
- Interest rates are down
- There are many motivated sellers out there
Looks as if this is a great time to buy!
I continually am asked "But is this the bottom, I only want to buy at the bottom." The question I must ask is " Why do you want to buy property here?" If your answer is to have a place at the beach either now or for retirement, then does the bottom really matter? No one wants to overpay for anything but price is always relative to time and need. If you want a place at the beach and can afford a place at the beach then buy a place at the beach now. I'm not saying shop around or pay full price. You still must do your homework (or have your Realtor do it!) You have to know what you can afford, what properties are selling for, and be prepared to make an offer on a home/land you want. If they won't sell it for what you are willing to pay, then find another property who will!
Real estate has always been a good long term investment. A lot of people made some quick money the last few years in real estate, but that is not the norm. However, real estate will always (there are exceptions of course) appreciate over the long term!
I bought a home here at the beach when I was ready and able to buy. Whether it was the bottom of the market never even entered into my decision. I had a budget, I knew what I was looking for and when I found it at the price I wanted--I bought it! I now have a home at the beach, something I wouldn't ever give up!!
If you are looking to buy something cheap and turn around and sell it for a huge profit next year, my advice is don't buy. If you are willing to buy something and hang on to it for 5 years and make a profit, then buy.
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Here's a good deal for you--a 2 bed/1.5 bath townhouse on the beach side of Hwy 98 for $220,000. It's an older building, no association fees, steps from the water, and could probably benefit from a contemporary touch! I sold one a little smaller earlier this year for $190,000.
You might be able to get it for right around that price! Let's say you get it for $200,000. At 90% financing (20,000 down). Your mortgage (I estimated high at 7% interest) payments would be a tad less than $1200/mth. This does not include taxes and insurance. So lets add another $400/mth to that ----So for $1600/mth you can have a vacation home at the beach. Rent it out a few weeks every month and you can lessen that cost. Go in with other friends and family and reduce it even less!
Obviously not every one can afford a 2nd home- but for those who can, this is a good time to make some offers!
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Mexico Beach's Art and Wine festival is at the end of October. This is one of the largest events in Mexico Beach, one you don't want to miss! We have some fantastic local artists as well as artists from all over the area who display and sell their art. There is an auction as well and plenty of wine! Its at the beautiful Driftwood Inn right on the beach. If you are planning to come and spend the weekend, you need to make reservations right away.
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Mexico Beach is also having a city wide yard sale October 6th. You'll see several tables set up on Highway 98 as well as signs directing you back into the neighborhoods. Some of us have been saving up all our "junk" for you to buy as your "treasure" all year!!
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As always, please feel free to respond to this blog, or email me directly with any thoughts, questions, concerns or opinions!!!!
Have an absolutely wonderful week and weekend!
Don't forget to go to church on Sunday, pray for someone, and count your blessings!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
As always, its been a beautiful week in Mexico Beach Florida!
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Now for the real estate news.
With all the media hype about how terrible the market is I thought I'd go back to some previous years and compare the stats. Below is a chart comparing the sales from 2001-2007. The statistics are from our local MLS system for each year from January to Sept.
Looking at the stats, things aren't as bad as they as they are portrayed. There are a few buyers who bought at the height of the market in 2005 who have lost some value if they planned on selling in the next year or so.
The MBARA Kingfish Tournament went off without a hitch last weekend. The captain's party was a huge success as always with pounds and pounds of grilled sausage straight from Louisiana. Half Hitch Tackle and Blue Water Outriggers as well other local businessess donated rods, reels, coolers, gift certificates, t-shirts and various other items as door prizes.
I honestly have no idea how many people attended but, IT WAS A LOT! It's always a good time for a good cause! The fishing started Saturday and although it was beautiful in the morning it got rather stormy in the afternoon. It, of course, didn't damper any of the fishing though. In fact, rain is always a welcome sight this time of year.
We had 170 boats registered. SunDance Realty is the official weighmaster and we weighed in lots of Kingfish, Spanish, and several Wahoo!
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The Mexico Beach CDC is one again sponsoring Music in the Park, every Thursday in September from 6-8:00 Central time. The concerts are at the city park next to the El Governor Hotel. What better way to spend a Thursday evening than at the beach listening to good music with friends and family.
Bring your chairs, your family and friends, a beverage, and even a picnic! Send me a quick email and I'll send you the schedule!
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If you are an animal lover (like me) you will want to attend the annual Bow Wow Bash in Port St. Joe the last weekend in September. There will be dog parades, pet look-a-like contests, and other dog related activities all day! Should be hilarious!!!!! There's even a dinner and dance for the humans that evening!
Send me a quick email and I'll send you this flyer as well! (Let me know if the flyer does not show up here!)
Send me a quick email and I'll send you this flyer as well! (Let me know if the flyer does not show up here!)______________________________________________________________
Now for the real estate news.
With all the media hype about how terrible the market is I thought I'd go back to some previous years and compare the stats. Below is a chart comparing the sales from 2001-2007. The statistics are from our local MLS system for each year from January to Sept.
Looking at the stats, things aren't as bad as they as they are portrayed. There are a few buyers who bought at the height of the market in 2005 who have lost some value if they planned on selling in the next year or so.
The majority of our buyers are people who buy as a 2nd/ vacation home and plan on using it until they can retire down here. These buyers, because it is a long term investment are fine!
Property values are now stabilizing and as you can see there is still a great appreciation rate for property in our area. The number of sales in 2007 has almost tripled from last year which tells me that those who can --- are!
As for the mortgage industry, they are back to lending to only those who can afford to pay the payments! I think that is a good thing. Those who have good credit will be able to secure financing at a good interest rate. If you need financing I can put you in touch with a great lender who is reliable, fast and requires very little paperwork!
As always, if you are interested in buying or selling anywhere from Mexico Beach to Port St. Joe to Carrabelle or even up to Wewahitchka give me a call or email. You can always check out my website which has not only my listings but all the properties on the market!
I look forward to hearing from you!
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Foreclosures
I don't usually blog twice in one day but...........I have had several inquiries lately about foreclosures. I do know that foreclosures are on the rise nationwide, with Florida being #1 or2 on the list as the state with the highest rate. Up until now there have been very few foreclosures in our area. Many of the foreclosures in our area now are due to the fact that people bought at the height of the market with interest only loans with the intention of flipping and were basically CAUGHT! The problem with this is that the mortgage is now much more than the market value. The basic process of foreclosure (and I know there are experts out there, so don't hesitate to chime in!!) is.....a lien is filed----this could be many months after the owner has stopped making payments. That lien is recorded and could be many more months before it is auctioned off on the court house steps (I seen a property in pre-foreclosure for almost a year). If no one buys it at the courthouse steps then perhaps a bank will list it with a real estate company. The bank, of course,will try to get as much money out of it as they can. They will start off high and every several months reduce it a little. This process can take another several months. Foreclosures CAN be a great deal if you can get it for under market value----and believe me, I'm keeping my eyes out for such deals. However, all I have been seeing of late are those properties that are mortgaged out way above current market values!!!!
I honestly believe there are better deals out there right now--better than any foreclosed property that I can know of. The key to getting a good deal right now is making offers. Find a property that you want, figure out what you are willing to pay, and make an offer. If they turn you down, find another piece of property, make an offer------sooner or later a seller will accept your terms! I'm not saying to make an offer of $150,000 on a 350,000 house. But I am saying on a $299,000 beachside townhouse--A strong offer of $250K might be a good place to start. Of course, you should know before you make the offer if it is something you will be able to afford--a pre-approval letter (or better yet,a cash offer) with your offer and a good escrow deposit make your offer strong and harder to resist. Your realtor (hopefully ME) can show you comparable properties and what they have sold for and steer you in the right direction. It is extremely important for you to trust your realtor---if you don't--------FIND ANOTHER ONE! Remember, we make a living by repeat business----it pays for us to be honest and upfront with you!!!!! Also, remember, we do not have a crystal ball----we can't tell when the market is going to go up or down---or how far the market is going to go up or down. We can only tell you what it is doing RIGHT NOW! We have all bought properties in the last couple of years that are now not worth as much---however, I have always said that real estate is a great LONG TERM INVESTMENT. I have been fortunate enough to have "flipped" a couple of properties--however it was by the Grace of God alone, because that has never been an intention of mine. I have always bought a property with the intention of keeping it for at least 5 years.
So, in a nutshell. Foreclosures can be great deals, BUT NOT ALWAYS. Foreclosures are not the easiest way of getting a good deal. There are better deals out there right now than foreclosures.
Feel free to post a response or send me an email.
Thanks,
Mary
I honestly believe there are better deals out there right now--better than any foreclosed property that I can know of. The key to getting a good deal right now is making offers. Find a property that you want, figure out what you are willing to pay, and make an offer. If they turn you down, find another piece of property, make an offer------sooner or later a seller will accept your terms! I'm not saying to make an offer of $150,000 on a 350,000 house. But I am saying on a $299,000 beachside townhouse--A strong offer of $250K might be a good place to start. Of course, you should know before you make the offer if it is something you will be able to afford--a pre-approval letter (or better yet,a cash offer) with your offer and a good escrow deposit make your offer strong and harder to resist. Your realtor (hopefully ME) can show you comparable properties and what they have sold for and steer you in the right direction. It is extremely important for you to trust your realtor---if you don't--------FIND ANOTHER ONE! Remember, we make a living by repeat business----it pays for us to be honest and upfront with you!!!!! Also, remember, we do not have a crystal ball----we can't tell when the market is going to go up or down---or how far the market is going to go up or down. We can only tell you what it is doing RIGHT NOW! We have all bought properties in the last couple of years that are now not worth as much---however, I have always said that real estate is a great LONG TERM INVESTMENT. I have been fortunate enough to have "flipped" a couple of properties--however it was by the Grace of God alone, because that has never been an intention of mine. I have always bought a property with the intention of keeping it for at least 5 years.
So, in a nutshell. Foreclosures can be great deals, BUT NOT ALWAYS. Foreclosures are not the easiest way of getting a good deal. There are better deals out there right now than foreclosures.
Feel free to post a response or send me an email.
Thanks,
Mary
Happy August
I am loving our weather!!! August is usually the dog days of summer, but I will tell you that it has been unusually cooler in the mornings lately! We could use more rain, but we have just really had gorgeous weather!! Well, the summer vacationers are thinning out--still pretty busy on the weekends though. I do believe we've had a good tourist season! A big thank you to all you tourists out there!! Chip, my husband, has had a tremendous fishing season--actually the fishing has not been great but he had trips booked pretty much 7 days a week for the months of June and July. We don't have any Saturdays open in August but if you'd like to go fishing with him during the week--give us a call!!
Don't forget, the MBARA tournament is the 25th. We are expecting about 200 boats this year!
The captain's meeting is Friday the 24th at the El Governor pool area and its always a good time!! I believe registration is $150 and with that you get a free MBARA t-shirt, registered for door-prizes (of which there are many), and a free sausage dinner for you and your gang-cooked right there by the official MBARA cooking team!!!! The awards ceremony is Saturday evening at Toucan's, free fish dinner! If you want to register I can help you with that!
Restaurant update: Mango Marley's and The Neon Palm are now open for business! Casual atmosphere, burgers, wings, and other assorted foods!!!
Okay now for..............................REAL ESTATE!
We are still plugging away! Our sales numbers are up about 70% but prices have come down about 26%. There is no consistency in what is selling--about 3 gulf front homes, quite a few vacant lots, a few single family homes and a lot of the pre-construction condo's have closed!
All but the condo's have been EXTREMELY GOOD DEALS!
Here's the thing---you have to make an offer! Some sellers continue to have their property at a higher number but are willing to take much less. You don't know what they will take until you try. It doesn't cost anything to make an offer---If an offer is cash or you have an approval letter from a lender already, close in 30 days, and are willing to put a 2% binder down-that is a very strong offer and there is no telling what the seller will take!!!!!! I don't want anyone to pay over market value for a property, so figure out what you are willing to pay, what you can afford to pay and then MAKE THE OFFER! If the seller isn't reasonable, well okay, move on to the next one!!! Browse through my listings or do the mls search and let me know what you are interested in! My specialty is not seasoned investors, but just regular folks who come down here all the time, love it and want a place to stay when they are down or are looking to retire here when that time comes----When the investor comes back in--and they are beginning to, the prices will once again go up. Please don't miss the opportunity to own a place at the beach! I thank God everyday that Chip and I bought when we did---I love it here!
Okay, I'm off my selling soap box------have I twisted your arm enough?
As always, don't hesitate to post a reply, email me, give me a call, and/or browse my site!
Have a great weekend!!!
Mary
Don't forget, the MBARA tournament is the 25th. We are expecting about 200 boats this year!
The captain's meeting is Friday the 24th at the El Governor pool area and its always a good time!! I believe registration is $150 and with that you get a free MBARA t-shirt, registered for door-prizes (of which there are many), and a free sausage dinner for you and your gang-cooked right there by the official MBARA cooking team!!!! The awards ceremony is Saturday evening at Toucan's, free fish dinner! If you want to register I can help you with that!
Restaurant update: Mango Marley's and The Neon Palm are now open for business! Casual atmosphere, burgers, wings, and other assorted foods!!!
Okay now for..............................REAL ESTATE!
We are still plugging away! Our sales numbers are up about 70% but prices have come down about 26%. There is no consistency in what is selling--about 3 gulf front homes, quite a few vacant lots, a few single family homes and a lot of the pre-construction condo's have closed!
All but the condo's have been EXTREMELY GOOD DEALS!
Here's the thing---you have to make an offer! Some sellers continue to have their property at a higher number but are willing to take much less. You don't know what they will take until you try. It doesn't cost anything to make an offer---If an offer is cash or you have an approval letter from a lender already, close in 30 days, and are willing to put a 2% binder down-that is a very strong offer and there is no telling what the seller will take!!!!!! I don't want anyone to pay over market value for a property, so figure out what you are willing to pay, what you can afford to pay and then MAKE THE OFFER! If the seller isn't reasonable, well okay, move on to the next one!!! Browse through my listings or do the mls search and let me know what you are interested in! My specialty is not seasoned investors, but just regular folks who come down here all the time, love it and want a place to stay when they are down or are looking to retire here when that time comes----When the investor comes back in--and they are beginning to, the prices will once again go up. Please don't miss the opportunity to own a place at the beach! I thank God everyday that Chip and I bought when we did---I love it here!
Okay, I'm off my selling soap box------have I twisted your arm enough?
As always, don't hesitate to post a reply, email me, give me a call, and/or browse my site!
Have a great weekend!!!
Mary
Monday, July 09, 2007
I trust everyone had a great 4th of July holiday! The beach here was packed! We had our annual summer 3 mile run with over 200 entries and over 100 kids fishing in the kids fishing tournament. Even though it threatened to storm, it didn't and the fireworks over the water were great! I helped out with the kids fishing tournament. What a great time---the kids were so proud of their 4 inch pin fish. It really was a lot of fun-free bait, drinks, hot dogs. Lots of very positive comments from folks visiting for the first time!!
The Neon Palm in Mexico Beach is now open, 11:00 to 11:00 everyday. Wings, hamburgers, deli sandwiches. Its always great to have another option for dining! We are waiting patiently for Mango Marley's to open--just not sure when. The new Bayside Bank is also open on the corner of 15th and 98. They did a beautiful job with that building and its landscaping! Great people working there too, Dianne, Brittany, Michelle!
The Movies under the Stars has a new schedule for July. July 12th at Frank Pate Park in Port St. Joe, Arthur and the Invisibles at 8:30 Eastern time. July Thursday July 19th Madagascar will be playing in Mexico Beach at the El Governor at 7:30 PM CT
Thursday, July 26th Bridge to Terabithia will be playing at Frank Pate Park in PSJ at 8:30 PM
The movies are free - bring a blanket and snacks!
If you have any ideas for any activities that we can provide for both the locals and tourists alike please let me know---we are always trying to come up with low cost activites that we can promote throughout the year.
I hope that everybody will be participating in the MBARA fishing tournament. The largest tournament held in Mexico Beach. It starts off with THE BEST captain's party at the El Governor Friday night, the 24th. Free beer, sausage of all types fresh from Louisiana and cooked right there by the cooking team. Lots of door prizes for all entrants! The tournament is on Saturday the 25th and the awards dinner, with a free fish buffet at Toucan's on Saturday night. Another very good time!!!
To continue on that fishing front---the boat ramp on Hwy 98 and 37th street has been re-paved so it should be in good condition. The city is also getting a new dredge! We haven't had many problems with the canal being stopped in for long, so good job City of Mexico Beach!!!!!
Fishing has been just so-so. As the old saying goes "That's why they call it fishin not catchin"
As for real estate-------------although it doesn't seem any better. The stats show we are doing much better than last year with almost twice as many sales. Of course the prices have continued to drop! If anyone wants a piece of this gorgeous coast, I truly, truly believe this is the time---sellers are taking some pretty ridiculous offers!!! If you have a dollar amount in mind, let me know what it is and I'll try to find you something in that price range!! We've got some great properties at some great prices!!!
If you are interested in buying, please go ahead and get pre-qualified by a lender, so it will increase the effectiveness of your offer!! Interest rates are still very good and there are lots of programs available to help with closing costs and down payments. I'll be more than happy to put you in touch with some great bankers to help you out!!!!!
Thanks for taking the time to check in with me and as always don't hesitate to post a response or email me directly!
Thanks and have a great week!!!
The Neon Palm in Mexico Beach is now open, 11:00 to 11:00 everyday. Wings, hamburgers, deli sandwiches. Its always great to have another option for dining! We are waiting patiently for Mango Marley's to open--just not sure when. The new Bayside Bank is also open on the corner of 15th and 98. They did a beautiful job with that building and its landscaping! Great people working there too, Dianne, Brittany, Michelle!
The Movies under the Stars has a new schedule for July. July 12th at Frank Pate Park in Port St. Joe, Arthur and the Invisibles at 8:30 Eastern time. July Thursday July 19th Madagascar will be playing in Mexico Beach at the El Governor at 7:30 PM CT
Thursday, July 26th Bridge to Terabithia will be playing at Frank Pate Park in PSJ at 8:30 PM
The movies are free - bring a blanket and snacks!
If you have any ideas for any activities that we can provide for both the locals and tourists alike please let me know---we are always trying to come up with low cost activites that we can promote throughout the year.
I hope that everybody will be participating in the MBARA fishing tournament. The largest tournament held in Mexico Beach. It starts off with THE BEST captain's party at the El Governor Friday night, the 24th. Free beer, sausage of all types fresh from Louisiana and cooked right there by the cooking team. Lots of door prizes for all entrants! The tournament is on Saturday the 25th and the awards dinner, with a free fish buffet at Toucan's on Saturday night. Another very good time!!!
To continue on that fishing front---the boat ramp on Hwy 98 and 37th street has been re-paved so it should be in good condition. The city is also getting a new dredge! We haven't had many problems with the canal being stopped in for long, so good job City of Mexico Beach!!!!!
Fishing has been just so-so. As the old saying goes "That's why they call it fishin not catchin"
As for real estate-------------although it doesn't seem any better. The stats show we are doing much better than last year with almost twice as many sales. Of course the prices have continued to drop! If anyone wants a piece of this gorgeous coast, I truly, truly believe this is the time---sellers are taking some pretty ridiculous offers!!! If you have a dollar amount in mind, let me know what it is and I'll try to find you something in that price range!! We've got some great properties at some great prices!!!
If you are interested in buying, please go ahead and get pre-qualified by a lender, so it will increase the effectiveness of your offer!! Interest rates are still very good and there are lots of programs available to help with closing costs and down payments. I'll be more than happy to put you in touch with some great bankers to help you out!!!!!
Thanks for taking the time to check in with me and as always don't hesitate to post a response or email me directly!
Thanks and have a great week!!!
Friday, June 22, 2007
July 4th
Happy July 4th---its right around the corner. I can't believe that summer is half way over already! Its definitely warmed up around here--high of 93 today! Mexico Beach will be shooting their big fireworks display off the pier this year right around 9:00. They always put on a good show. There's no better way to celebrate the 4th of July than watching fireworks over the water!!!
As for the fishing-----Chip (my husband, captain of the charter boat "The Miss Mary", in case you didn't know) has been booked solid for the last several weeks. He's done pretty well most days although its not been easy!!! He's never been skunked at least, although he's come pretty close---------but that's why they call it fishin' and not catchin'!! He still has several days open the end of July and lots of availability in August and the rest of the fall. www.charterboat-missmary.com
As for real estate--------wow, the market has definitely picked up---contracts are being written weekly now--doesn't sound like much, but when you consider we went for about 6 months without writing ONE, we are doing great now!!!! It is such an awesome time to buy----many sellers are willing to do whatever it takes to hang on to a buyer----if you have been looking to buy a vacation property this is the best time--Find a property you want, make an offer of what you are willing to pay and if that seller doesn't accept, another one will!!! We have homes at all price levels now. I know that some people say "wait, its going to go lower" but what assurance do you have---we are pretty much selling now at prices we had about 3 years ago. I'm so afraid some people will wait too long and it will be too late because the values will go up again eventually---no one has that crystal ball-------------wish I did!!!
Vacant land, which had gotten extremely high, is now a great investment again!!! We have lots in the 80's now------some of the same lots sold in 2005 for $250k. That is not a typo----lots that were purchased in 2005 for $250,000 are now selling in the mid to high 80's. Tell me a lot at that price is not a good long term investment, even better if you want to retire here and build!!!
On a personal note--I'm going to fly to Pennsylvania for a family reunion in a few days!!! I am so excited!! My immediate family has 7 brothers and sisters + with their husbands and children---we are going to have A LOT of folks!!! I am so looking forward to it---its hard to get us altogether at one place---we've been planning this for 2 years!!!!! I can hardly wait--just had to get that out of my system for today!!
I pray everyone is having a safe and fun summer! Please feel free to respond to this blog or to my personal email anytime!!
Thanks again and Happy 4th of July--GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!
Mary
As for the fishing-----Chip (my husband, captain of the charter boat "The Miss Mary", in case you didn't know) has been booked solid for the last several weeks. He's done pretty well most days although its not been easy!!! He's never been skunked at least, although he's come pretty close---------but that's why they call it fishin' and not catchin'!! He still has several days open the end of July and lots of availability in August and the rest of the fall. www.charterboat-missmary.com
As for real estate--------wow, the market has definitely picked up---contracts are being written weekly now--doesn't sound like much, but when you consider we went for about 6 months without writing ONE, we are doing great now!!!! It is such an awesome time to buy----many sellers are willing to do whatever it takes to hang on to a buyer----if you have been looking to buy a vacation property this is the best time--Find a property you want, make an offer of what you are willing to pay and if that seller doesn't accept, another one will!!! We have homes at all price levels now. I know that some people say "wait, its going to go lower" but what assurance do you have---we are pretty much selling now at prices we had about 3 years ago. I'm so afraid some people will wait too long and it will be too late because the values will go up again eventually---no one has that crystal ball-------------wish I did!!!
Vacant land, which had gotten extremely high, is now a great investment again!!! We have lots in the 80's now------some of the same lots sold in 2005 for $250k. That is not a typo----lots that were purchased in 2005 for $250,000 are now selling in the mid to high 80's. Tell me a lot at that price is not a good long term investment, even better if you want to retire here and build!!!
On a personal note--I'm going to fly to Pennsylvania for a family reunion in a few days!!! I am so excited!! My immediate family has 7 brothers and sisters + with their husbands and children---we are going to have A LOT of folks!!! I am so looking forward to it---its hard to get us altogether at one place---we've been planning this for 2 years!!!!! I can hardly wait--just had to get that out of my system for today!!
I pray everyone is having a safe and fun summer! Please feel free to respond to this blog or to my personal email anytime!!
Thanks again and Happy 4th of July--GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!
Mary
Friday, May 25, 2007
Happy Memorial Day
Let me just begin by saying "Thank you" to all the men and women who have and are serving in our military. I truly am indebted to all of you. I continually uphold you in prayer and will forever be grateful for your service to this great country!
I hope that all my readers will have a wonderful relaxing long weekend with friends and family. It will be a great weekend to be at the beach!
Memorial Day weekend is really the kick off to the best selling season. This year it surely has proved true---three offers and accepted contracts in just 2 days, and three other offers in place, just not executed yet!! Wow!
I hope that all my readers will have a wonderful relaxing long weekend with friends and family. It will be a great weekend to be at the beach!
Memorial Day weekend is really the kick off to the best selling season. This year it surely has proved true---three offers and accepted contracts in just 2 days, and three other offers in place, just not executed yet!! Wow!
We are already doing much better than last year, almost twice as many residential sales as last year already!!!
There are some really good deals out there (although the majority of them are being snapped up this week). We really do have a property out there at just about every price point--------although------------I had a call from a guy who has never been to this area before who wanted waterfront for around 100K---------okay, we don't have that price point!!!!! The same customer wanted a rental property where the income would cover the mortgage. That is also pretty much history! We do have a couple of deals that come pretty close though--if interested let me know!
The majority of the condo projects are about finished. Some are really very nice, with fantastic views! They aren't cheap but -----------------YOU ARE AT THE BEACH!!!
If you are looking for a lot, this is the absolute best time to buy-some wonderful deals out there!
On non-real estate related points---I had dinner at the Bonefish Grill the other night in Panama City. It was absolutely delicious!! I had a melon ball martini (heavenly) with bang bang shrimp as an appetizer (I could have eaten that for the meal) and topped it off with an entree of mahi mahi----cooked to perfection! I highly recommend it!
Movies under the stars will be a highlight for the summer events in the area. Starting soon, this is an inflatable movie screen that they set up in different parks in the area and watch family movies--sort of like "drive-in's"-----------You remember those don't you??????????????
The water and weather have been fabulous. COME TO THE BEACH!
As always, don't hesitate to post a reply or email me directly with any questions or comments!
Have a great weekend!!
Mary
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Life is sooo Great Here
Our weather has been amazing! We could use some rain now and again, but other than that---still cool in the mornings and evenings and up into the 90's in the day! I haven't even turned on my air conditioner this year. But the water......................absolutely gorgeous---beautiful blue green water! Every single time I see it like this it just confirms my reason for living here!!!
The fishing has been pretty good as well. Snapper, spanish and king mackeral, and cobia! Don't forget, my husband runs fishing charters all year long--if you've never been deep sea fishing, you've got to try it!
I just got a flyer from the Panama City Civic Center---Free outdoor concerts in the park downtown Panama City every Thursday starting today, May 10th, for the next 2 months! Starts at 6:30 central time. I'll be glad to send you the flyer, just send me a quick email!
As for the real estate market: The market is still slow, but MUCH better than this time last year!!!! Prices have come down and buyers know this is a great time to buy. Interest rates are still low. Vacant lot prices have come WAY down. If you are looking for a lot to build, we are at rock bottom prices---give me a call, there are some great deals out there!! There are some super deals on homes as well!
Mexico Beach has several new businesses opening. Kevin's Seafood and Steam Bar is already open. Mango Marley's and the Neon Palm are new restaurants that will be opening soon! We are all looking forward to that!! Coastal Community Bank is just about finished with its new building on the corner of 15th and 98 and what an extremely nice building it is!!
Don't hesitate to respond to this blog or send me an email!!
Have a great weekend and COME TO THE BEACH!
The fishing has been pretty good as well. Snapper, spanish and king mackeral, and cobia! Don't forget, my husband runs fishing charters all year long--if you've never been deep sea fishing, you've got to try it!
I just got a flyer from the Panama City Civic Center---Free outdoor concerts in the park downtown Panama City every Thursday starting today, May 10th, for the next 2 months! Starts at 6:30 central time. I'll be glad to send you the flyer, just send me a quick email!
As for the real estate market: The market is still slow, but MUCH better than this time last year!!!! Prices have come down and buyers know this is a great time to buy. Interest rates are still low. Vacant lot prices have come WAY down. If you are looking for a lot to build, we are at rock bottom prices---give me a call, there are some great deals out there!! There are some super deals on homes as well!
Mexico Beach has several new businesses opening. Kevin's Seafood and Steam Bar is already open. Mango Marley's and the Neon Palm are new restaurants that will be opening soon! We are all looking forward to that!! Coastal Community Bank is just about finished with its new building on the corner of 15th and 98 and what an extremely nice building it is!!
Don't hesitate to respond to this blog or send me an email!!
Have a great weekend and COME TO THE BEACH!
Friday, April 13, 2007
Spring has Sprung
I pray that everybody had a wonderful Easter! Our weather was unusually chilly for Easter but there's always a cold snap right around this holiday, or so everyone says!!! I grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania and remember many times having to hunt eggs in the snow or having the easter egg hunt inside because it was too cold--------either way is JUST WRONG! So, I am not one to complain about a chilly 50 degree Easter morning!!!!
We must be in between spring break and summer break because I am not hearing the "whoops" and "calls" of spring breakers as they ride down 98 in their cars! Mexico Beach had a good showing of spring breakers, but as usual, its more of a family crowd, unlike Panama City Beach. There were even some daring souls that ventured in the water----way too cold for me still!
As for the real estate market---it seems that it has picked up a bit! A variety of properties are going under contract including commercial, vacant lots, single family homes and condos! That is encouraging to us all!!! I do think this is the time to buy. Many of the properties are now listed at the bottom dollar. Some property owners still insist on 2005 prices so our prices are really all over the place but if you are looking for a property at the beach I'll be willing to bet I can find you what you are looking for at the price you want. The inventory is still extremely high. So those sellers who are still holding out for the 2005 price have a lot of comparable properties at the new and lower 2007 price!!!!!
The majority of condo projects are in their final stages of construction with units left to sell. You can get some of these brand new units at the original release price!!!!
My theory is...............We will stabilize our pricing this year and next spring we will see a very slight appreciation. Sellers who have owned their property here for years are still making a huge profit on their investment if they sell now. It is only those who bought high wanting to flip that may be losing money!
If you are interested in buying or selling please feel free to browse my site and give me a call with any questions!!!!!!!!!!!!
Those of you who have never visited Mexico Beach I do hope you are planning a trip here. We truly are a beautiful place, a step back in time, and a most serene place that makes you appreciate the creator!!!!!
Have a great weekend and I look forward to hearing from you!!!
Mary
We must be in between spring break and summer break because I am not hearing the "whoops" and "calls" of spring breakers as they ride down 98 in their cars! Mexico Beach had a good showing of spring breakers, but as usual, its more of a family crowd, unlike Panama City Beach. There were even some daring souls that ventured in the water----way too cold for me still!
As for the real estate market---it seems that it has picked up a bit! A variety of properties are going under contract including commercial, vacant lots, single family homes and condos! That is encouraging to us all!!! I do think this is the time to buy. Many of the properties are now listed at the bottom dollar. Some property owners still insist on 2005 prices so our prices are really all over the place but if you are looking for a property at the beach I'll be willing to bet I can find you what you are looking for at the price you want. The inventory is still extremely high. So those sellers who are still holding out for the 2005 price have a lot of comparable properties at the new and lower 2007 price!!!!!
The majority of condo projects are in their final stages of construction with units left to sell. You can get some of these brand new units at the original release price!!!!
My theory is...............We will stabilize our pricing this year and next spring we will see a very slight appreciation. Sellers who have owned their property here for years are still making a huge profit on their investment if they sell now. It is only those who bought high wanting to flip that may be losing money!
If you are interested in buying or selling please feel free to browse my site and give me a call with any questions!!!!!!!!!!!!
Those of you who have never visited Mexico Beach I do hope you are planning a trip here. We truly are a beautiful place, a step back in time, and a most serene place that makes you appreciate the creator!!!!!
Have a great weekend and I look forward to hearing from you!!!
Mary
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