2010 So Far in Mexico Beach Florida

Well, we humans have survived sub-freezing temps for the last week!    It was touch and go though---we are just not used to being COLD.

I believe many of my plants were not so lucky, even though I covered them with towels and blankets.   I've heard people talk of lizards frozen in their tracks, colored black instead of their normal green.  And I've attached digital proof of hundreds of stunned mullet in the canal.

There's just no reason to let perfectly good (albeit chilly) mullet go to waste.  So several folks about town scooped up several hundred and are, as we speak, smoking mullet!!   

I've also heard there have been "stunned" turtles beaching themselves along the cape, a rescue effort is underway.

I've also attached the 10 day forecast to show the hope we hold we will be back to normal temps this week.

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On the real estate front:

Nine properties were put under contract since January 1. 

• Three residential SHORT SALES:  3bd/2 bath townhouse 1 mile from the beach, listed at $125,000,  3/2 small single family home a couple blocks from the water listed at $159,900, New 3 bd/3 bath condo one block from the water listed at $177,500
• One bank owned house across from dedicated beach listed at $289,000.  3 bed/1.5 bath--value is in the location.
• 3 bd/2.5 bath octagon home in an established subdivision--gulf view, very short walk to private beach.  Listed at $299,000.  
  
• Very small but recently renovated home about 3 miles from the beach on 1+ acres listed at $122,900.
• 4 vacant lots, 2 are short sales:  50 X 100 ft lot in Beacon Hill listed at $55K, Gulf view lot 47 X 170 ft listed at $89,900,   4 acres in Beacon Hill listed at $250K and a 75 X 150 ft lot in the 2nd block to the beach, listed at $65K.

Only one closing so far in January:

• Bank owned triplex in need of LOTS OF REPAIR AND RENOVATION!    Fantastic gulf view though!!!   Sold for $265,000.
  

Click here to see pictures and information.

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This is typically the slow season in real estate.  I am encouraged by the number of buyers looking though.   What is really encouraging is that when properties are priced right we are getting multiple bids!!    I believe that means we are pretty much at the bottom of the market.   If you are looking to buy to hang on to for a while, then even if values go down just a little bit more, you are still buying at the low end of the market and can look to typical appreciation for the next 10 years. 

Therefore if you are considering making an offer on a property that is priced right ( your Realtor can tell you!) you probably need to make your initial offer your best one!
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February 13 is our annual Gumbo Cook Off.   This is one of our largest events in Mexico Beach.   If you think you make a good gumbo, then come on down and enter.   It gets bigger and better ever year!    Let me know if you are interested and I'll get you an application!   It will be fun!
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I just sent out my January newsletter, giving stats for 2009.  If you didn't get it and you are on my email database, let me know and I'll send it another way.

Please don't hesitate to call me anytime if you have any questions about any kind of real estate matter.

Have a great week
Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Sundance Realty

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Happy 2010

Wow, 2010 is making an unbelievably brutal entry!  

Nighttime temperatures BELOW 30 degrees!  We've had an occasional 29-30 degrees overnight throughout the years, however, I don't ever recall it being that low for several nights in a row.  These overnight temps are predicted for the rest of the week.    I'm not liking it either!

Of course, I could be in Michigan or Colorado.  Or I could be in Erie, Pennsylvania where their HIGH for the day is lower than our LOW for the night!   I believe I'd die!

I've attached a graph of the average temps for Mexico Beach, not to make anybody feel any worse but........
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On the real estate front..........

First of all, I'd like to thank all my customers who helped my have another successful year!  I have been graciously blessed and have actually sold twice as much as in 2008!    Many Realtors have had to take other jobs to support their families, many have had to quit real estate altogether, some have even had to move from the area.  I feel very fortunate to be able to make a good living doing something I love!   So, a big shout out to all my customers!!!!

It has been extremely busy since Christmas.   Lots of lookers, many contracts being written and negotiated!!!   I keep spouting the same mantra but....low prices = more sales!     Low prices + low interest rates + motivated buyers + large inventory = EXCEPTIONAL TIME TO BUY!

We are basically back to 2001-2002 pricing.  

I am sending out my monthly newsletter Tuesday (tomorrow) morning.  I give brief overview of the real estate for Mexico Beach, St. Joe Beach, Windmark Beach for the entire year.   If you are not on my database for the newsletter, just simply email me a request and I'll get it to you!
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Not a lot of events going on in the area for January.  Guess we are all just keeping warm!
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We do have a new restaurant open in Mexico Beach though.   Foodies opened January 1.  They are located on 40th Street, beach side.

Opening Hours - Will Change during season

Sunday 7am-2p.m. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Monday Closed

Tuesday 6am-2p.m. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Wednesday 6a.m.-2p.m. (Breakfast and Lunch)

Thursday 6a.m.-9p.m. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Friday 6a.m.-9p.m. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Saturday 6a.m.-9p.m. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

 They will be serving breakfast and daily hot meal special consisting of an entree, two sides and bread for lunch at $5.99, dinner for $8.99up. Examples of daily specials include fried chicken, rotisserie or baked chicken, homemade meatloaf, pastas, Jerry's wonderful homemade macaroni and cheese, real mashed potatoes, rice and gravy, vegetables and vegetable casseroles. Other daily features include handbreaded chicken tenders, delicious wings with a variety of sauce choices, fresh (not frozen) hamburgers, sub and sandwich station, and great salads.
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On the fishing front............................
Don't forget to keep up with www.unitedwefish.blogspot.com
We are marching on Washington February 24th to show Washington, we just aren't going to take this sitting down!   If they shut down the fishing here, as they did on the east coast----we are ALL  affected.   If you don't fish, I'll bet you know someone who does.   Or I'll bet you know someone who has a boat, or someone who likes to eat seafood.......
We need to get as many people to participate in this march on Washington as possible. 
We are trying to get several bus loads from the panhandle, so let me know if interested!!!
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Have a wonderful week and don't forget......."Wishing will never be a substitute for prayer" (Ed Cole)

Don't hesitate to contact me anytime with any questions about real estate in the beaches area!
Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Mexico Beach Fl Real Estate on Facebook

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Happy New Year from Mexico Beach Florida

Happy New Year!

I can't believe 2009 is over----where did it go?    I'll be sending out my end of the year newsletter next week which will give the real estate statistics for December and all of 2009.  If you are not on my email database for the newsletter, just send me a quick email and I'll add you!

Amazingly, it has been an extremely busy week so far--which accounts for my blog being late!

There are a lot of people in town and many of them just to see property.  We are all showing to prospective buyers and not just tire-kickers!

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There are a lot of short sales on the market.  Short sales are when a buyer is "upside down" with his mortgage, they owe more than it is worth.
A seller can list the property for market value and when they get an offer they can apply for a short sale with THEIR lender.   They ask to sell the property and either release them from the balance of the mortgage.   Once sellers get a contract then they can begin to negotiate with the lender.  They can ask to be released from any balance or can negotiate a reduced amount to be paid in installments. 

Each bank is different to work with however, the lender is not obligated by our real estate "time is of the essence".  They can take anywhere from 2-6 months to approve an offer.

The seller has to provide quite a bit of documentation for a short sale.  The buyer just has to have patience. 

Many short sales will end in foreclosure.  However, from my experience, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years for the bank to actually foreclose and take back the property.

These can be great deals and are definitely worth the wait!
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Celebrate Twice!
Because Mexico Beach is on the time zone line you can ring in the new year in eastern time zone and then ring it in again in central time zone!!!
There will be trolleys you can catch a ride on and just bounce from restaurant to restaurant all the way from Port St. Joe to Mexico Beach.
Take a look at the flyer below.
Don't hesitate to call me if you have any other questions!!!
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I want to thank all of you for your business!

I look forward to a healthy, happy, and prosperous new year and pray the same for you!!

I will be working this weekend so don't hesitate to call!

Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Sundance Realty
Mexico Beach, FL real estate on Facebook

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

What you get for the Money ROUND 4

Here is a town house about 1 mile from the beach.  Built in 2005, it has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and about 1300 sq ft.  You have 2 guest bedrooms downstairs with a jack and jill bath.  The master bedroom and bath is upstairs.  You have 2 parking spaces in front.  There is a nice pool/ pool house for all residents.  Home association fees are only about $100/mth and that includes yard maintenance! 

This town home development is a little different from most here as the units are split into 2, so you only have neighbors attached to one side.  There are only 20 of them so its a little more on the quaint side!!!

Here's your challenge..................take a guess what this town house is listed at without going over the price!   Send me an email, or you can post a response on my blog. 

I'm going to give you until SATURDAY, one extra day, since we'll all be celebrating the birth of Jesus on Friday!!!

Merry Christmas to all and THANKS FOR PLAYING!!

Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
maryblackburn@mchsi.com
Mexico Beach Fl Real Estate Facebook

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Merry Christmas from Mexico Beach

Merry Christmas!
Happy Birthday Jesus!

I pray you all have a precious time with family and friends as we all remember the birth of our Lord and Saviour.
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If you are considering replacing your windows, doors, roof, or adding insulation in your home anytime soon check out the following website.  You could get up to $1,500 tax credit.  Of course, there are strict stipulations, it must be your primary home, and the products must qualify for a certain energy rating.
The following website will have the details.

Energy Star Tax Credits

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Calling all fisherman...........if you have not checked out the new blog  United We Fish
Please bookmark that page and check back frequently or subscribe and you will get updates.   The fishing industry is certainly under assault as there are several environmental agencies working to further restrict any recreational fishing!    Please take a minute to reflect on what it would mean if we couldn't catch ANY snapper, grouper, amberjack.................think about the industries, the people that this would affect.

If you don't think it possible:

NOAA’s Fisheries Service has announced an interim rule that will prohibit commercial and recreational fishing for red snapper in federal waters off North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and the Atlantic coast of Florida.

The six-month rule becomes effective on January 4. It can be extended an additional six months if necessary.

There are people out there who take advantage of and exploit every industry, the fisherman who catch all they can, regardless of size and number....but they are not the majority.  Most fisherman who love to fish and especially those who make their living with it are THE UTMOST CONSERVATIONISTS!!    They do not over fish! 

Don't get me on my soapbox.............just check out the website!
Mexico Beach residents and businesses know the data these environmentalists are using is flawed.  We know there is no shortage of red snappers.  We know there is a hidden agenda. 
Mexico Beach is showing its support of United We Fish and Vote by putting up banners and signs all over town.

If you want a banner or sign, send me an email and I'll get you one.   Bumper/window stickers are also being printed.   Donations are needed to keep this up though!
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Okay, let's get to some fun stuff!

Mexico Beach is in an unusual area.......we are right on the line of central time zone and eastern time zone.  Therefore, every New Year's Eve, we actually get to celebrate it twice!    Celebrate it first in the eastern time zone and then go a few more miles to ring in the new year again in the central time zone.
The City of Mexico Beach provides trolleys to take you safely from one establishment to another!

Celebrate Twice!
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As for the real estate market:
Two properties were put under contract in the last few days, several others being negotiated.

• 3 bed/3 bath Waterside Village Condo listed at $188,500 as a short sale.
• 3 bed/3 bath Gulf view home with over 1,700 sq ft listed at $379,000

There were 4 closings:

• 3 bed/2 bath home in a great neighborhood, a little longer walk to the beach but an easy golf cart ride!!!  This was a foreclosure and needed a little TLC.  Selling at $170,000
• 1 bed/2 bath newer condo with a boat slip.  Almost 1100 sq ft.   Foreclosure seller at $178,600
• 3 bed/2 bath 1974 home with about 1300 sq ft BEACH SIDE, sold as a short sale for $303,000
• Windmark Beach home with 3 bed/3 bath, over 2200 sq ft selling for $575,000

Properties under contract and sold in the week of Dec. 14-Dec.21

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I've got some awesome deals starting at $150K and( maybe a tad less) all the way up to a steal for those looking for a fantastic house at $820,000.

If you are seriously looking please give me a call!   I will be taking Christmas Day off, but don't hesitate to call me up until then.   I'll also be working the day after!

Have a very merry Christmas and I appreciate each and every one of you!

Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
mexicobeachmary@gmail.com

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

What you get for the Money Round 3 answer

Believe it or not, this 2006 3 bedroom/3 bath, 1500+ sq ft just ONE BLOCK FROM THE WATER condo is listed for....
$188,500! 

Betty Prentice is the winner of this round--Starbucks for you, Betty!!!

This is a great price for this location!!

If interested, don't hesitate to contact me!!!

Thanks for playing Betty!

I'll post another property next Wednesday!!

Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Mexico Beach Real Estate Facebook

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

"What you get for the Money" Round 3

Here is a newer condo, built in 2006.  It is in a gated community just one block from the water.  This top floor unit has a small view of the water from its back balcony.
This unit is 3 bedrooms/3 baths and a little over 1500 sq ft.   Boasting 2 master suites with walk in closets + an additional smaller  bedroom and bath.   All kitchen appliances are conveying + stack washer and dryer.  This unit has corian kitchen counters and ceramic tile in the kitchen and all bathrooms, with carpet in the living room and bedrooms.  There is a beautiful community pool + boardwalk along the canal.

Send me your guess of what you think this condo is listed for.  You'll win a prize if you come the closest without going over. 

Send me an email at mexicobeachmary@gmail.com by Friday night!   No looking online------trust your instincts!!!

Thanks for playing!!!

Mary
850-896-5222

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Mexico Beach real estate update

What crazy weather we've been having!!!   Last Sunday it was FREEZING, well freezing for Florida----mid 40's.  Yesterday I was in shorts and a t-shirt!   We've had torrential rains, heavy fog, humidity...........everything except......snow!

I've attached one of the golf carts in the 1st annual Mexico Beach Golf Cart Christmas parade.  We plan on doing this every year for the Christmas tree lighting so plan accordingly!!!
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The Christmas lights around Mexico Beach are gorgeous!   I love Christmas!  I love Christmas lights!  I'll be posting some of those pictures next week.

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I've attached a flyer from Mexico Beach  A LONG TIME AGO.    They are advertising gulf front homes for.........$21,000.   That was way before my time!

I think you'll enjoy it!

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As for real estate........not a lot going on......there was one closing last week and what a sale it was!   A 60 ft gulf front lot sold for $280,000.
It was bank owned.  What a deal!

There are some other great deals out there----a single family home with unobstructed gulf view for $289,000 and several newer condo's priced in the $170's.

If interested give me a call or send me a quick email!
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Have a great week!
Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Mexico Beach Real Estate Facebook

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

: Round 2 Answer

$219,000 will buy you a 2,000sq ft+ 3 bed/2 bath 2001 home just 1/2 mile or so to the beach.

OR

You can buy a 2 bed/2.5 bath townhouse in Atlanta Georgia. 

OR

You can buy a 2 bed/1bath, 1952 concrete block single family home with almost 1500 sq ft in Miami Florida

OR

You can buy a 4 bed/2 bath Tri-level home in Chicago Illinois

WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO BE FOR $220k????

Round 3 coming up next Wednesday!!

See and download the full gallery on posterous

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

What You Get For the Money

This house is only a  little more than 1/2 mile to the beach an easy walk or an easier golf cart ride!   Over 2,000 sq ft, open floor plan, fireplace, screened back porch, 3 bed/ 2bath + bonus room with 1/2 bath above the garage.  This home is move in ready and in a great neighborhood. 

What do you think it is listed for?

The first person to come the closest to the listing price without going over wins!!!  

(No cheating---you can't look on line!)

Send me an email with your guess!   marybackburn@mchsi.com

I'll announce the winner on Friday.

Feel free to tell your friends and family about the game...they just need to sign up as a fan on my facebook page.
They can search facebook for mexico beach, fl real estate

Good luck!!
Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Sacred Heart Hospital in Port St. Joe

Scheduled to open in March 2010, Sacred Heart Hospital is now taking applications for more than 100 positions!
This not only will provide much needed medical services but will bring jobs to the area as well!

http://www.starfl.com/news/services-19703-heart-sacred.html

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Our First Winner is........

The first winner of "What you Get for the Money"  is................... (drum roll please)................

David Kiser of Mexico Beach, Florida!!!

He guessed the house sold for $375,000.   He came the closest----actually, he was THE ONLY ONE WHO GUESSED, and didn't go over the sales price.
The selling price was $399,000.

Good guessing David.  You just won a couple of coffees at Starbucks!

Thanks for playing!!

I'll post another house next Wednesday!
Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

1st Round of WHAT YOU GET FOR THE MONEY!

Here's a beautiful house with unobstructed views of the Gulf of Mexico!   Just steps to the beautiful white sand beach!
A little over 1400 sq ft with 3 bedrooms/2 baths.  A wonderful screen porch overlooking the water.  This home is up on
stilts and underneath is a little oasis with gorgeous landscaping, hot tub,  and entertaining area with a bar!!

What do you think this house sold for this past October!  

Email me your guess at maryblackburn@mchsi.com

If you are the closest to the selling price without going over----YOU WIN.

I'll announce the winner on Friday!  There is a prize (not much of one, but still a prize!!)

Thanks for playing!!
Mary
850-896-5222

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

1st round of WHAT YOU GET FOR THE MONEY!

Here is a 2000+ sq ft home a little over 1/2 mile to the beach.  Open floor plan, ceramic tile throughout the living and
kitchen area, corian counters, tons of cabinetry, fireplace, screened back porch.  Three bedrooms/2 baths + additional bonus room and
1/2 bath in a room above the garage.   Move in ready!!!

Email me what you think this house is listed for.  If you come the closest to the listing price without going over---YOU WIN.
This is based on the honor system---no cheating---you can't go to a website to look it up!!!

Email me at maryblackburn@mchsi.com

I'll announce the winner on Friday!!
Thanks for playing!
Mary
850-896-5222

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Short Sales and Foreclosures in Mexico Beach, Florida

I trust everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving---counting your blessings, eating turkey and pumpkin pie!!!

Only 24 shopping days left!    Where in the world did 2009 go?    Time really does fly when you get a little older-----please notice I said "a little" older!!!

I love seeing the Christmas lights go up.   I admit, I will get a little sentimental this time of year as I think about SNOW!    Of course, not enough to move back up north but............

We've had some awesome weather so far---mid 70's today!!!    
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The fishing report!    Chip went grouper fishing the other day and guess what?   He caught all kinds of SNAPPER!!!   In fact, it was difficult to get to the grouper because there was so many snapper.   Snapper season is over and he had to throw all of them back!   This is the same fish the government is trying to put MORE restrictions on!!!  

If you are not familiar with the new proposed fishing regulations the government is trying to pass check out  http://unitedwefish.blogspot.com/
This website will keep you informed!!!   

The government tried to shorten the oyster season as well but because of YOUR voice and opposition, they postponed that regulation.  You can make the same impact on the recreational fishing regulations as well!

Chip did catch 3 grouper though!!!

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On the real estate front:

Amazingly the week of Thanksgiving was pretty busy-----lots of showings, quite a few offers being negotiated, one definitely accepted.
236478 - Details: 313 BEACON RD, PORT ST. JOE, FL - $269,000

For those of you interested only in short sales or foreclosures, below is the link to all in the beaches area of Mexico Beach to St. Joe Beach.
Short sales and foreclosures

Most of these are good deals---you just have to take a chance, make an offer and be patient!!!

There are just as many listings that are not short sales or foreclosures that will be good deals if people would just make offers!!!! 

I've had a couple of buyers recently miss out on a property they wanted because they didn't want to make an offer at what they were willing to pay, afraid it would offend the seller. 
The property is now under contract at the very same price they were GOING to offer.

Houses are selling---rates are still low---as low as 4.78%---sellers are motivated!!!!   

Not all sellers are motivated, not all HAVE to sell, but you never know which ones are ready until you try!!!

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I'll be sending out my monthly newsletter the end of this week---if you are not on my email list for the newsletter, just send me a quick email and I'll add you.   I'll give you the recent real estate stats as well as give you my choices of the best buys. 

Don't forget to check out my website:  www.maryblackburn.com  for the Christmas events for the area.

Also, check back on Wednesday for my new "What you can get for the money" game.  I'll post a picture of a house and YOU can guess the price.  There is a cheap little prize for winning!!!    You win if you are the closest to the actual listing price without going over.

I'll let you know who won on Friday!!!
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If you have a golf cart PLEASE decorate it for Christmas and ride with us in the FIRST ANNUAL GOLF CART CHRISTMAS PARADE!!!!
We will be riding from City Hall to Sunset Park December 6th----We'll watch the Christmas tree lighting and then return to City Hall.

If you are interested, you have to register, so email me and I'll send you the information, maryblackburn@mchsi.com

The Mexico Beach Christmas display at Sunset Park next to the El Governor is ALWAYS GREAT!!!!
Penguins is the theme this year!

Have a great week!!!    

Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Sundance Realty

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

(no subject)

I'm going to start an interactive game on my blog!    Here's how it goes:

1.  I'll post a picture of a house in the area.  I'll give a brief description as well. 
2.  YOU try to guess the price!   You'll have to email or facebook your answer.
3.  NO cheating---you can't look it up on any realtor website just take a look and price it, trust your instincts.
4.  I'll post it on Wednesday morning.  On Friday I'll announce the winner.  THERE IS A PRIZE,  so I'll need your mailing address.
5.  The winner will be the person who comes the closest to the price WITHOUT going over.

Sounds like fun?  

Next Wednesday will be the 1st house!  See you then!

Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
Sundance Realty

Posted via email from Mary Blackburn in Mexico Beach, FL

Happy Thanksgiving from Mexico Beach,Florida

It's 61 degrees, sunny and I'm looking at the gorgeous Gulf of Mexico! I am so THANKFUL for that! I remember many Thanksgiving days waking up in Pennsylvania with snow on the ground!!!


I have been tremendously blessed with family, friends, health, and God's saving grace that I could write pages of things I am thankful for. Suffice it to say, I am humbled for all the blessings I have and thank my God for each and every one of them.
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Mexico Beach had it's official groundbreaking for the new boat ramp! We are really excited about this as it will take the boating traffic off Hwy 98 and provide much more room for boat launching. It is tentatively set for completion by April!!!
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Mexico Beach is going to have its Christmas Tree lighting December 6th. We are going to have the FIRST EVER golf cart parade from City Hall to the the tree lighting at Sunset park. Get your golf carts decorated and come join!!! You have to register to do so (requested by the City of Mexico Beach Police) so let me know if you are interested and I'll get you the information!

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Real Estate:

Activity has definitely slowed down, which is typical this time of year.

Only one property was put under contract last week.

• A beach side single family home, 1500+ sq ft Listed at $275,000. I'm going to assume it needs work.

Two closings last week:

• Two vacant lots in the 2nd block to the beach. 75 X 187, one sold for $50,000 and one sold for $55,500. Both were short sales.

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We know have 23 residential properties under contract in Mexico Beach to St. Joe Beach.

• 12 are short sales
• 5 are bank owned properties
• 6 are regular transactions

Short sales are time consuming and frustrating. The seller has to provide lots of financial documentation. The realtor has to spend countless hours every week, calling and faxing. The buyer------you just have to be very patient!!!!

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As for the deals on the market. We used to get calls saying, "what can we buy for $150,000" and our answer was "a vacant lot". Now you can actually get a house for $150,000! You can get a nice house for $200,000!!

It might need work, it might be small, but IT'S AT THE BEACH!!!

Whatever your price range, just send me a quick email with your "wish list" and I'll find you something!!!!

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I will be working this week so don't hesitate to call!!!

Have a great Thanksgiving,

Mary

850-896-5222

www.maryblackburn.com

Sundance Realty

Another gorgeous weekend in Mexico Beach, Florida! The only thing I don't really like about this time of year, is giving up the flip flops. But its okay, its only for a little while!!! I can actually still wear them in the middle of the day, but I don't always have the luxury of changing outfits in the middle of the day!!!

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I talked to a friend this morning who caught 8 very good size grouper Saturday. Of course, he had to go out 80 miles but............YUM!

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Speaking of fishing, please keep informed about the new fishing regulations that are about to take effect. These new regulations will severely limit recreational fishing as well as commercial fishing. We may soon be buying all our fish from overseas! It will have a trickle down effect to thousands of fishing related jobs and industries.



If you are concerned about this issue and want to stay informed and voice your opinion, send me a quick email and I'll put you on that database and keep you up to date!!!

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On a very positive note:

The new Sacred Heart Hospital in Port St. Joe is coming along quickly! This facility will not only provide some desperately needed services in this area but will also become a much needed employer!!!



There will also be additional doctors offices and related medical industries alongside the actual hospital.

We are so looking forward to this!!!!



Sacred Heart Hospital is having a job fair December 5th 10:00-2:00 at Gulf Coast Community College in Port St. Joe.

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On the Real Estate Front:

Five properties were put under contract in the last 4 days.

• TWO beachside older homes. One is 3 bed/1.5 bath, 1100 sq ft, listed at $339,000. The othere is 1532 sq ft, 3 bed/1 bath, listed at $275,000.
• A gulf front lot, bank owned, 60 feet on the water by 264 ft deep. Listed at $300,000!!
• Another Windmark Beach House went under contract. 2,568 Sq ft, 4 bed/4 bath, listed at $536,000.

Closings in the last 4 days:

• Teeny gulf front cottage, 572 sq ft. 48 X 275 ft lot, sold for $318,000. It was on the market a couple of days!
• Canal front and beach side house, built in 1973 with 1651 sq ft sold for $591,400.

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It always tickles me when people ask me "so is ANYTHING selling?" And they do emphasize ANYTHING! They are shocked when I say YES! We are putting things under contract and closing properties all the time.

THERE ARE BUYERS OUT THERE AND THEY ARE BUYING!!! It comes down to the three things it has always come down to:

• Location
• Condition
• Price

Our location is AWESOME! Literally every house in Mexico Beach/St. Joe beach is within a mile and a half from the water. Walkable, bikable, golf cart rideable.

The condition: If there is something that needs work. Buyers will deduct that from the price no matter what price you have it listed.

Price: How close you are to the water, how much of a view, should be reflected n the price. You MUST be listed at very close to what the home would appraise for to get any action. You MUST get your listing price from the most recent sales in order to get any action. Other wise you are a house with a sign in the yard.

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Please let me know if I can help you with anything, call me anytime!!!

Have a great week and remember: " Words that soak into your ears are whispered.....not yelled."

Mary

850-896-5222

www.maryblackburn.com

Sundance Realty

Happy Veteran's Day from Mexico Beach Florida

To all who have served and are still serving in the Military----Thank you for your service! May God protect you and your families.
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I'm sorry I'm blogging on Wednesday---It has been a super busy weekend and week and I am just now able to concentrate on blogging! There is a lot to talk about!
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First, let's talk fishing!
The National Marine Fisheries is trying to shorten the season on oysters to 3 months and snappers to one month....They are tightening restrictions on basically all recreational fishing. This will have a devastating effect on those who make a living fishing, but the trickle down effect to restaurants, hotels, boating industry, coastal towns, seafood markets, etc, will put thousands and thousands out of jobs. AND, there is just no reason for it. There is no shortage of snapper, eating bad oysters is not killing off people.......there is a political agenda at work.

Boaters had a protest last Saturday all up and down the coast. (click to see a video) There are people working to STOP these ridiculous restrictions. If you want to voice your outrage, just send me a quick email and I'll send you all the information.
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There was an auction last Saturday in Mexico Beach. The results were:

1. The gulf front lot + 1st tier lot DID NOT SELL. I believe the high bid was a little less than $500,000 and the seller would not accept it.
2. The Duplex beach side DID NOT SELL. I believe the high bid was around $310,000. The seller would not accept.
3. The commercial lot on Hwy 98 DID NOT SELL. I believe the high bid was around $110,000. The seller would not accept.
4. The bay front lot in Laird Bayou (panama city) SOLD absolute for $110,000 + 10% buyers premium.
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Tropical Storm Ida was a bust! We had quite a bit of rain and some pretty good wind gusts but nothing to get excited about. Mexico Beach has been extremely fortunate the last several years. We like it that way!!!
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Okay, now on to REAL ESTATE!!

The first time homebuyer tax credit has been extended. Contracts have to be signed by the end of April and closed out by the end of June. A first time homebuyer is defined as someone who has not owned a home for the last 3 years. You can receive an $8,000 tax credit!

They also added a $6,500 tax credit for move up buyers. If you have lived in the same residence for the last 5 years you can qualify for the $6,500 tax credit when buying a new primary residence.

They also raised the income limit from $75,000 to $125,000 for single filiers and from $150K to $225K for joint filiers.

These tax credits have definitely moved many buyers off the fence. It provides an additional boost to the local economy because when people buy a new home, they also buy new furniture, new services, for example painters.....

Gosh, low interest rates, motivated sellers, reduced sales prices, tax credit..........THESE CONDITIONS WILL NOT LAST FOREVER!
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November has been a pretty active month!

Six residential properties put under contract here in Mexico Beach to St. Joe Beach.

• 2,000 sq ft home in a great neighborhood, 3 bed/2 bath + guest cottage listed at $199,000 as a short sale. Needs some work.
• TWO beach side townhouses were put under contract. Both were 3 bed/3 bath about 2,000 sq feet. One has canal and gulf view listed at $289,000. The other has limited gulf view, being sold furnished, listed at $335,000
• Fixer upper Triplex up on a bluff, with fantastic views. Needs a lot of work, bank owned and listed at $300,000
• Very nice 3 bed /2 bath home in the 2nd block to the beach, large lot, listed at $375,000
• 3 bed/3 bath home with about 2250 sq feet in the exclusive resort area of Windmark beach listed at $575,000.
• Canal front condo, 1bed/2 bath bank owned, listed at $174,900
• 2.5 acres of vacant land a few miles from the beach listed at $89,900
• Vacant lot in Windmark Beach, listed at $255,000

Properties under contract and sold in November.

One of the most interesting properties that went under contract.

MARQUARDT'S MARINA: The business only was listed at $229,000 which includes a turnkey business of retail, sales and service. PLUS, the real estate of .87 canal front commercial land, 33 wet slips and the 2005 Marina building. The real estate was listed at $1.7 million. This will be one I'm anxious to see what it closes for!!!!

We also had a few closings last week:

• 1,300 sq ft "skinny house" walkable to the beach, close to a city park, sold for $175,000
• Canal Front Condo, 1 bed/2 bath. sold at auction for $189,750.
• TWO waterside cottages, 4 bed/2 bath, one block from the water, gated subdivision, 1800+ sq feet. One sold for $295,000, the other for $300,000.

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Please don't hesitate to call/email me anytime if you have any questions about any property in the area.

Have a great week and remember: Forgive your enemies. It messes up their heads!

Mary ,
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com

Saving Daylight in Mexico Beach Florida

I hope everybody remembered to turn their clocks back Saturday!

Well, I believe we are now at the right temperatures for this time of year. Low's in the 50's highs in the 70's. Yahoooooo!!! I love this time of year! I do not like the cold--but I love the change of temperature----I love being able to open the windows and doors, I love being able to wear a sweater, I love working in the yard and not breaking a sweat!!!!!
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Just to let everybody know: The City of Mexico Beach is extending our pier. Construction will start Monday so the pier will be closed. They are anticipating about 4-6 months of construction. If you are a pier goer, be patient, it will be better in the end!!!!

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We just got word that Southwest Airlines will be one of the airlines at the new airport in Panama City. It will be a welcomed addition!!!

An update on the "back beach" (Gulf to Bay) and expressway to Panama City (Gulf Coast Parkway)------The back beach road, which takes thru traffic from Hwy 98 along the water back around St. Joe Beach and Mexico Beach and takes it back into Hwy 98 at the eastern end of Mexico Beach before Tyndall is engineered, right of ways are purchased, the location is set. They are just awaiting funds for construction.

The road that will link Hwy 231 to the Overstreet Road (Hwy 386) making it an easier, faster route from Panama City to Mexico Beach is about 65-70% complete with the engineering stage.
The routes have not been established. They have narrowed the possibilities down to about 4 "corridors".

I have maps and information. If you are interested, just let me know and I'll be glad to talk with you or send you the information.

All of these changes, the new airport, the road re-alignments.....are all supposed to enhance and encourage more tourism and trade to our little neck of the woods. Right now you have to travel along the coast, through slower speed zones, to find us. It's also supposed to make hurricane evacuation more efficient.

I think the changes are positive as long as we still have the ability to control growth and development!!!
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On the real estate front: Pretty slow week although a couple of important closings took place.
Transactions for the week of October 26-October 31.

>Newer Gulf Front home on St. Joe Beach, with almost 3400 sq feet, elevator.....Sold for $915,000----the buyer paid about $35K in seller closing costs, so they really paid $950,000.
Still a very good deal considering the age and location of this home.

>A 3 bed/2 bath home with almost 1500 sq feet. Great condition, beautiful landscaping and unobstructed gulf view sold for $399,000. Another great deal!!

These are the two most desirable locations----Gulf Front and unobstructed gulf view!!!

>An older canal front home, that is also beach side, went under contract. Listed at $620,000. I'm looking forward to seeing what that closes for!!!

Again, another desirable location--canal front!!!
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There is going to be an auction in Mexico Beach next Saturday. A duplex (2 completely separate homes on one lot) beach side and a vacant piece of property that is basically a gulf front lot and 1st tier lot with it.
Neither of these auction properties are absolute, meaning the seller is going to have to accept the high bid. Or in other words, they don't have to accept the high bid---it may not be enough!

Both properties are unusual. In previous blogs I have stressed that unusual properties can command a little higher price. If its unusual now, it will be unusual when the market rebounds.

The duplex is unusual in that the houses are detached, attached only by deck. They are both large (4 bedroom) homes. So you are virtually getting 2 homes on one lot. They are good rentals. They are older and will require some work but.......they are beachside!!!

The vacant land is a good sized piece of property which includes a gulf front lot and a 1st tier lot + an extra 50 ft wide strip of land, that doesn't really add value because you can't build on it, but you can use it for density and set back purposes.

If you are interested in bidding, let me know!!!! I can get you registered.
I can even bid for you, if you can't make it!!!!

If you want more information, just send me a quick email or a phone call!!
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Have a great week and remember: " Life is too short to wake up with regrets, so love the people who treat you right, pray for the ones who don't, and believe everything happens for a reason! "

Mary
850-896-5222
www.maryblackburn.com
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