As always, its been a beautiful week in Mexico Beach Florida!

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!)

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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 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!

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

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

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!!!

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

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!

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

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!

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

Buyers

Don't forget to "spring ahead" tonight for daylight savings time!!
Last time I blogged to sellers--------today--------I'm hitting you buyers!
I have been emailing some people property for YEARS!! I know that buying beach property is a huge investment and requires planning and consideration. However, some of these people have passed up deals and deals and deals all with the intention of maybe getting it at an even better price! Here are my thoughts on that kind of thinking-----If you are buying a place at the beach TO USE, that property is worth more to you than the person who is buying for investment only.
The years of enjoyment are worth something----actually its worth A LOT! We are in a buyer's market right now. Huge inventory, price reductions, seller's giving concessions, low interest rates....There is absolutely no better time to buy. I constantly hear---it might not be the bottom yet----you will not absolutely know where the bottom is until it starts going up---by that time, you've missed it AGAIN! Our prices here at the beach are all over the place---we have not yet substantiated a base level. That's because some sellers are afraid to lower their prices "just in case" someone is willing to overpay! This means that when a real buyer comes into play-------they hold all the cards!! If you are a serious buyer and really want a place at the beach---this is the time-------make a reasonable offer for your #1 choice. If you can not come to terms, make a reasonable offer on your #2 choice. I'll be willing to bet if you make a "reasonable" offer (based on sales THIS YEAR, NOT PREVIOUS YEARS) one of them will bite!
AND YOU WILL HAVE YOUR PLACE AT THE BEACH!!!

I just sold a little place to some folks----its their vacation retreat---its nothing fancy. They have come down every weekend since they purchased it---they've brought family and friends and are having a blast!!!! This is what its all about!!!!!

If you are looking for an investment only--------you guys have to look for a steal---I do think they are out there. In fact, I know of a couple..............give me a call!

The market has definitely seen an upswing! I think we are going to have a great season!!!

Post a blog, stop by and see me (purple shop just a few doors from the ice cream shop) or send an email to let me know you appreciate (or don't) my blog!!!

Thanks, Have a great weekend!
Mary

Pricing is Key

I can not believe March will be here in a couple of days--as much as I hate to admit it, time does fly when you get older!!! Our weather this week has been beautiful, reaching the mid 70's!!

We have seen a definite increase in the real estate market since January! I do believe there are a lot of people looking to purchase and who are making plans to visit the area in March and April during their spring break.

I just wanted to talk to sellers a minute about something that has become so apparent here lately. Pricing has always been key----My mother-in-law, a Realtor in Georgia has always told me there are 3 factors that will sell a property---CONDITION, LOCATION, AND PRICE!!!
Lets start briefly with CONDITION:
In a buyer's market with a high inventory of properties---if you want to sell yours, yours has to be different from the other zillion on the market---condition is one way of making yours stand out. Fix everything that's broken, definitely add some curb appeal--flowers, plants, tropical plants work great! Fresh paint, clean carpets, ZERO CLUTTER, these are small investments to bring you a much higher price!

LOCATION: If your property is anywhere in my immediate selling area--Mexico Beach, St. Joe Beach, Port St. Joe, Overstreet, Wewahitchka You've already got great location built in!

PRICING: Here is the key! You need to account for the condition and location of course, when pricing----If you don't want to do any repairs or landscaping, then your price should reflect that---if you don't do it then the buyer has to---somebody has to spend the money! No one wants to pay top dollar for a property and then sink more money in it to use it! As for location--distance from the beach should reflect in the pricing -- you can't get gulf front prices if you are 2-3 blocks back! The most important point however is.....you must stay current with the market! The market has drastically changed since last year--if you still have last years prices on your property you are probably way over priced in today's market! Alot of seller's make the mistake of saying "We are negotiable. Its easier to negotiate down. Buyer's can always make lower offers". However, this type of thinking may result in your property being on the market for a very long time. A couple of cases to illustrate this: A home originally listed in 2005 for $350,000. It was reduced a couple of times. It finally sold in just 23 days since the listing price was reduced to $249,000, only $25,000 less than the last list price!!! Most people think $25,000 is negotiating room----for this property it made the difference between a sale and sitting on the market several more months. Another home was on the market for 435 days, reduced 7 times in that time frame and when reduced to a reasonable price was under contract in less than 2 weeks selling for that final full price! A property was under contract in 7 days selling for only $5,000 less than full price--this property was listed at $15,000 less than the other comparable properties---Did we ask too little???? Could we have gotten more???? The seller made a very fine profit and only had it on the market a very short time! Pricing is the key to a fast and profitable sale. Listen to your realtor when you ask the question "what will my property sell for?" Some questions to think about when contemplating a price----How much profit do you really need? How long can you afford to have it sit on the market? Do you really want to sell now??? Remember, it is a buyer's market just about everywhere right now---if you are going to buy another property when you sell yours---you might want to consider taking a little less now so that you can buy your new home at an equally good price. There are buyers out there---however, they are no longer willing to overpay! If you are not willing to list at a price that will sell in today's market, perhaps this is not the time for you!. So PRICING IS KEY! Be realistic, listen to your realtor and your property will sell!!!! We are at the beach for goodness sake!!!!!

Don't hesitate to post a response or give me a call or email!
Thanks and have a great week!!!!

A Cold Weekend!

I woke up this morning to ICE IN MY DOG'S WATERBOWL!! Don't you worry all you dog lover's out there-------the dog was nice and warm cuddled up in the covers IN MY BED! I could only wish that all dogs were treated like mine! Actually if all people were treated as good as my dog..........................

Anyway, mighty cold out there this morning but the sun was shining all day so it didn't seem too bad.

The Annual Mexico Beach Gumbo Cook Off was today----A huge turnout--gets bigger and bigger every year! Congratulations to Billy Bowlegs (restaurant in Port St Joe) who took first place for the professionals division. I haven't heard who won in the amateur division yet.

Don't forget to click on MB Newsletter on my website to keep up with the other local events in Mexico Beach!

Good news for the avid boater/fisherman! The City of Mexico Beach is purchasing a new dredge for the canal---one specifically built to meet our needs! The canal is one of the City's priorities this year----looks like its going to be a great year for fishing and boating!!! Also, a new boat ramp is going to be built in that area that is designated as trailer parking --west of the new bridge---its going to be a couple of years until completed but will be a huge improvement!!

As for real estate--I anticipate a pretty active spring---we have already had a good January/February for sales!! It's still a buyer's market out there but I'm not sure how long that will last if things keep going at the rate they are now. Of course, the prices are drastically reduced from last year----between the prices going down, the interest rates still low, and the high inventory---it is a great time to buy if you want a place at the beach!!

Please feel free to post a response!!
Thanks and stay warm!!!!!

MBARA fishing Video

I just received the new MBARA fishing tournament video----much better than last years! The link is below plus I will put it on my links page. Check it out---I finally figured out you can fast forward it by clicking and dragging the little button on the bottom---you'll want to know that because they have a couple different 2 minute pauses for local commercials. For those of you who don't know about the MBARA tournament---it's a king mackeral fishing tournament every August---I think for our first one we probably had 25 boats. We are now over 200 boats!! The year before last we had well over 100 and Hurricane Katrina was bearing down on us------these are some dedicated (I don't want to say crazy) fishermen!!!!!! We have a great Captains party on Friday night with beer and tons of sausage, door prizes......it really is a good time!!! Then of course the fishing begins Saturday morning ending at 5:00. We have the awards party Saturday night with a free fish dinner!!! http://homepage.mac.com/raycombs/mbara/iMovieTheater32.html

Now for more important issues: Real estate seems to have picked up! We have been having lots of phone calls, internet leads, walk-ins with people looking to buy. There are now about 10 single family homes in Mexico Beach and St. Joe Beach under contract! We have already closed on several this year! Of course the prices are quite a bit down from last year, so no wonder people are buying----we've got some great deals!!!!! Interest rates are still low too!!!! Those who are riding the preverbial fence waiting for the bottom--------------the bottom is only derived after it starts going up so don't wait too long!!!!!!!

We've had a few days of brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr weather----however, when you watch the weather channel with cities with 30 degrees BELOW ZERO--I guess we can't complain about our 38 degrees for a few nights!!!!!! I called my family in Erie, Pennsylvania---it was ZERO degrees. We are liable to get an influx of northern residents in March when they thaw out!!!!
Just to rub it in a little---expected to reach 70 degrees today in MEXICO BEACH FLORIDA!

Well, that's all I have for now. Feel free to post your response!
Have a great week and weekend!
Mary

BRRRR! Well, ole' man winter has finally decided to visit Mexico Beach for a few days. Really, I can't complain----we have had a most wonderful winter--spending most of it in short sleeves shirts!! Everybody needs a blast of cold air everyonce in a while----its refreshing and it makes you appreciate those hot summer days!!! The great thing is ---- it will be 60 degrees again in a couple of days!!

I had a great conversation with a guy from Illinois the other day---its amazing how talking to other folks in different parts of the country can put things into perspective. In Illinois, there is a state income tax except on folks who are on pensions, the sales tax can range anywhere from 6.5% to 9.5% and property tax on a $400,000 house is over $7,000. In Florida, we have no state income tax, sales tax in my area ranges from 6-7% and property tax on a $400,000 house is probably closer to $5,000. He did say for $400,000 you could buy a 2900 sq foot brick house with full basement------------------------but you would be in Illinois for God's sake! You can buy a great house for $400,000 here and be a short walk from white sandy beaches on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida-------------I don't know about you but........................................

Anyway, I know we are getting a bad rap for property taxes right now so I just wanted to put everything in perspective!

I also had a conversation with a buyer about a week ago----She was about my age (young, very young) and this was not her first purchase of real estate. While talking to her and showing her one of my listings, she indicated she did not realize that I could show her (and hopefully sell her) anything in the area----she was calling each individual listing agent and making each appointment separately. I just told her that if she chose one agent whom she felt comfortable with-----that agent can do all that work for her!!! Part of my job is getting to know you and what you like and doing the searching for you! Your job should be to tell me your perfect property, tell me when you can be here to look, let me chauffer you around and then pick which one you want!!!!! So, my advice, stick with one agent and make them work for you!!!!!

The market seems to have picked up a little in the beaches area anyway---About 12 properties have been put under contract since January 1----that's extremely encouraging!! It seems people are coming back down and starting to look again----I'm optimistic that Spring will bring a little much needed boost to our local real estate industry. Sellers have been reducing prices pretty steadily over the last 6 months and I think we are reaching a point where prices are now stabilizing.

If you are in the market to buy, I think I would make some offers now, before Spring, especially if the property has been on the market all winter.

Hopefully Mexico Beach will see a couple new restaurants in the spring-----A steamed Seafood market and restaurant and "Mango Marley's" a family restaurant with wings, seafood and such.
We welcome both!!!

Please feel free to add any comments!

Have a fantastic week!!

Happy 2007!!!

I pray you welcomed in the new year in a safe but fun way! I know I did! I am more of a "homebody" but Chip and I made the rounds to a few private parties as well as Toucan's celebration where we saw all kinds of people we haven't seen for a while! Had a great time! We probably ought to get out more!

I, of course, made several new years resolutions----the first two are the same ones I make every year-----lose weight, get better organized. We'll see............................................

It looks as if the real estate market is looking up a bit! Several properties have gone under contract in the last few weeks. We are getting more and more phone calls about looking at property so perhaps we have reached the bottom and are on the way up!!!!! Some buyers are getting some pretty good deals, so don't wait too long--------------once sellers even think the market is picking up they are less likely to negotiate as much as they have been!!!!!

Our prices have definitely come down, but people still want to move to Florida and what better place than Mexico Beach----where our average temperature THIS winter has been about 65!!!!!
So our property will appreciate again---no telling how soon------------If you are a buyer you might want to buy now BEFORE we do start going up again!

I just learned about a great program in Port St. Joe----Gulf Coast Community College provides adults with classess for $60 for 6 weeks. The Panama City branch has a greater variety of classes but the Port St. Joe branch has some good ones!! What a wonderful opportunity to learn something, meet people, and have fun!! I will post the website here but will also have a link to it in favorite links----so check it out! http://lll.gulfcoast.edu/encore/Bay.htm#Course%20Descriptions

I am also going to post on favorite links a link to the Panama City Bay Arts Alliance-------I have been to several events over the years but they have recently starting bringing in some FANTASTIC shows! I recently saw the group "STOMP" there ----an absolutely awesome show! Bill Cosby is coming this month and in April---The Lord of the Dance! Willie Nelson is coming in February (I think).

I also wanted to let you know of a great restaurant in Panama City---Casa De Fago? Its a brazilian restaurant with ALOT of great food and ambiance!!!! The side dishes are at a buffet, lots of salads, vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice....... but the real treat is the way they serve the meat! The servers (dressed in brazilian dress) some out of the kitchen in mass with sword like skewers loaded with different meats---chicken, steak, lamb, shrimp-----they bring the different skewers to your table and you choose which ones and how much you want of each. Then they just keep coming and coming until you feel like you want to explode!!!!!!!! Its absolutely delicious and entertaining!!!!! It's just across the Hathaway bridge in Panama City. Let me know if you try it!!!!!

Please don't hesitate to respond to my blog-----I will try to post more often----let me know if there is a subject matter you want me to address!!!!

Thanks to all my customers who have made this another successful year for me---the market was down but I still did quite well and pray that 2007 is even better for ALL OF US!

Mary

Very Merry Christmas

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE! I have been so blessed this year! God truly is good!!!! It has been a slow year for most Realtors so I count every sale I've had this year as a blessing! I've done well, my new company has done well and we are really, really, really, did I say really, looking forward to an even better 2007!

Our weather here has been fanastic all year, no hurricanes!!! Chip had a great fishing year as well!!! We are both happy, healthy, and loved so what else can you ask for??!!!!

I pray that each one of you have also had a good year and that you'll count your blessings as we celebrate this holiday season with friends and family!!!

Have a wonderful Christmas, don't forget the "reason for the season"! Have a safe New Years and I look forward to keeping you informed about the real estate market in our area in 2007!!!

Mary

NOVEMBER IS ALMOST OVER

I cannot believe 2006 is almost over! The years are whizzing by and I know they say that's because I'm getting older, but I'M NOT! There are a few things that make me feel old though--------I can't sit indian style for more than a couple minutes without making me feel as if bones are breaking when I stand up, the kids I taught in First grade are now old enough to be married and have children, I can now just look at food and gain weight (of course I never stop at just looking!) and..........I DON'T EVEN WANT TO GO SHOPPING THE DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING!!!!

Other than that..........I feel like a spring chicken!!!!!!!! Life continues to be good at the beach. Our weather is wonderful...it got pretty cold for a few days, but has warmed up nicely.......I love this time of year when you don't have to have the AC on at all, and you might have to turn the heat on in the morning just to warm up the house a little! The water has been absolutely gorgeous!!! The sunsets are amazing!

As for real estate......Its been a mighty slow year. Prices have dropped, sellers have negotiated, and buyers have gotten some very good deals! For you sellers, perhaps the spring will bring a new crop of buyers, for you buyers, we still have some sellers who really need to sell and are willing to give you a good deal!
I have heard that it is going to take another year or two for our market to come back---however, no one knows where the bottom or top ever is--------If you want a place to vacation or a place to live in Mexico Beach or the surrounding area, I honestly believe this is the time to do it! Inventory is still high, prices have dropped and sellers are really negotiating, interest rates are good......how much better can it be! The buyers hold all the cards now.
There have been 80 residential sales thus far in 2006 between Port St. Joe to Mexico Beach. (My company, SunDance Realty, remains the number one selling company this year!!!!) Average price sold this year is $360,589, Average Days on the Market was 153. According to MLS, last year there were 171 residential sales (same area), average price sold was $404,370 and average days on the market were 105.
What will happen in 2007???????????????? Anybody's guess!!! Real estate has always been and will always be (in my humble opinion) a great investment in the long run-----not for flipping purposes because that is a different animal, but hang on to a piece of property for a few years and you will make a good return on your money. If you can use that piece of property and enjoy it during those years----how much more the return!!!!!!!!!!!

Anyway, everyone have a great week---start that Christmas shopping and decorating, be safe, stop and smell the roses once in awhile and as always.........buy some real estate!!!
Mary

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving, full of friends, family, and.....FOOD.
I, of course, ate too much (but what's new lately!). Just a few things I'm thankful for......that Jesus lives in my heart, my wonderfully patient husband Chip, I live in Mexico Beach!!, my 5 sisters, 2 brothers,their wives, kids and grandkids (too many to name, but I love each of them so very much),I'm grateful that my dad is still alive and is doing okay, my mother-in-law, brother and sister-in-law and her kids!! My soon to be sister in law (don't worry, Mike doesn't read this!)Of course my dog, hunter! I'm soooo greatful to have a job I love, three minutes from home. I'm also very thankful for Bill and Sally who let me work with them! I'm extremely thankful that the Lord has allowed me to do well during this very slow season. I'm thankful that my friends and family are patient with me because I'm the world's worst about staying in touch! I'm healthy, happy, loved, and I live at the beach---Man-O-Man, GOD IS GOOD!

With all the holidays, don't forget to take time out to really be aware of all your blessings!!

Thanks to you, all my customers, and I truly wish you all the best!!
Mary

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME!
Ugh, I absolutely do not like this time of year when it gets dark so early. The temperature is so perfect and I would love to work out in the yard or around the house until about 9 BUT ITS DARK AT 5!!!! I'm the kind of person who wants to go to bed when it gets dark-----i need sunlight to survive!!!

Our weather is absolutely beautiful now! Its snowing in Pennsylvania (my home state) and they've had a couple of blizzards in Buffalo NY by this time-----THIS IS WHY I LIVE HERE!

Seafood Festival in Apalachicola is this coming weekend! Great time to come down, take in a festival and...............LOOK AT PROPERTY!!! The market is full of deals right now, sellers are truly willing to negotiate!!! If you are looking for something specific let me know----its out there somewhere!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I just talked to a banker who said they have a loan program with 100% financing at 6.75%(this flucuates daily) but only if your income is less than $43K/year.

Anyone who wants an update on property taxes---email me at maryblackburn@mchsi.com
Or if you have any news on your property tax bill please email me and let me know!!!

I appreciate all the responses!!! Keep 'em coming!!!!
Have a super week!!
Mary

Oh Man, our weather could not be more perfect! It has started to cool down a little, especially at night, which is wonderful---beginning to feel like fall!!
The new road of St.Joe that takes us behind WindMark beach is now in use. They are working on public parking areas with beach access points as we speak. I know a lot of people have said they don't like this new road because you are no longer driving along the beach now. However, I do think that once they finish the parking area, the beach access, the boardwalk that runs along the beach, it will be even better than just driving along the beach. It will give us all a place to stop and take a walk or bike ride along the beach, a place where we can take visitors!

We've got two new business in Mexico Beach. Scoops Up is the new ice cream shop, at the other end of the Markets of Mexico Beach. He is now serving danish and coffee in the morning, hot dogs and chili for lunch and is providing free internet service!!!! StarDust is a great little boutique next to us----all kinds of handmade jewelry, "girlie" stuff, great kids stuff and just a wide variety of items!! You gotta stop by!

We've got the Movies in the Park on the 13th at Constitution Park in St. Joe featuring the movie Grease and the Art and Wine festival is the 21st at the Driftwood Inn in Mexico Beach.

As for the topic of real estate----still slow! A great time to buy---sellers are taking some pretty low offers. I honestly think that there are some awesome buys out there if you are willing to at least get in the game and make an offer. It doesn't cost you anything to make an offer. You can tell right away which sellers are motivated and which sellers want to still hold out for top dollar. The properties we have sold in the last month and those that are under contract right now are all considerably less than the asking price. Interest rates are still good. If you are seriously looking for a place on the beach, this is definitely a time to try to get one.

Its not a great time to be a seller---there are buyers out there, but they certainly are looking to get the most bang for their buck and are willing to walk away if they can't get a property for what THEY want to pay. I honestly think the market will come back up, but unfortunately, I think its going to be awhile. The properties that are selling now are what the appraisers will use for comps, so................ If you have to sell you just have to make your house more appealing than the other million on the market---you can do so either by the price or the condition of the house. If you don't have to sell, I wouldn't. If you can afford to hang onto your property for a couple more years, I would do it!! We have too much to offer here on the beach for property values to stay down!!!!! There is too much development going on which will bring the amenties we need to draw people to keep the values down. We are at the beach for goodness sakes!!!

Please don't be afraid to comment! Just click on the word "comment" below and voice your opinion, or ask a question or whatever. It will be fun to get a dialogue going!

Thanks so much, have a fabulous day and.........................................lets buy some real estate!