5 ways Americans are making non-traditional homes work

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/5-ways-americans-are-making-non-traditional-homes-work/ar-BBwPZTc

I don't think this is necessary the best for everyone in the long term however we have had an interesting past decade which has changed the landscape and we are adapting. 

Moving in with our parents is good for us.
Cohousing could fix the housing market.
More local investment can keep neighborhoods affordable.
The new better off doesn't necessarily mean renting for life.
The way we buy homes is changing.

4 Things to Know About Buying a 'For Sale by Owner' Home

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/4-things-to-know-about-buying-a-for-sale-by-owner-home/ar-BBwljF7

I have worked directly with for sale by owner sellers.  Sometimes it can be a bit more difficult so it is great when it actually works out.  Having a Realtor representing the buyer provides a buffer between emotions for both buyer and seller.

1. Most sellers will work with your agent
2. You shouldn’t think of the home differently
3. Laws still apply
4. Pricing may be off

Biggest real estate bubble isn't in London, San Francisco or New York

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/biggest-real-estate-bubble-isnt-in-london-san-francisco-or-new-york/ar-BBwP6VD

Vancouver is number 1 on this list.

Stockholm, Sydney, Munich and Hong Kong are also at risk of a sharp correction in house prices. In the past five years, house prices in these cities have increased by almost 50% on average, according to the UBS report published this week

Top 5 things to do this weekend in Southwest Florida

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/entertainment/2016/09/29/top-5-things-do-weekend-southwest-florida/90918458/

Fall is here & so is one of my favorite things Cirque du Soleil!

Pumpkin beer on tap at Naples Beach Brewery

The Naples Beach Brewery will debut its four autumn-inspired craft beers Saturday. A four-pack of the Boogie Gourd, Smoked Pumpkin, White Chocolate and the Pumpkin Latte, made with roasted cold brew coffee from Naples' Black Tulip, will be available for $40. The four-pack of 22-ounce bottles are limited, so it's first come, first serve. The brewery is open from noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and is located at 4120 Enterprise Ave, Ste 116. For more information, visit naplesbeachbrewery.com, or call 239-304-8795.

Farmer Mike's fall festival and corn maze returns

The second annual fall festival and corn maze will return to Farmer Mike's U Pick, 26031 Morton Ave. in Bonita Springs. Expect a pirate-themed corn maze with game stations and prizes, a separate kid maze, bounce houses and a haunted maze. The festival begins from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and continues the rest of the month at various times. A pumpkin patch is also available seven days a week. Corn maze tickets are $10 per adult and free for children 2 and younger, and include a hayride. Hay rides only are $5. Visit farmermikesupick.com for more information.

Pumpkins, hay rides in Fort Myers

Starting this weekend, Southern Fresh Farms in Fort Myers will bring back its annual fall festival with pumpkins and hay rides for free admission and free parking. For more information, visit southernfresh.farm or call 239-768-0309. The interactive farm is located at 8500 Penzance Blvd.

Naples Sunflower Festival

Collier County’s Conservation Collier and Parks and Recreation division will put on the third annual Naples Sunflower Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Admission to the festival is free and includes tours, hikes, music, food vendors, archery lessons, children's activities and hayrides at Pepper Ranch Preserve, 6315 Pepper Road in Immokalee. Guided tours start at 11 a.m. For more information, call 239-252-2961.

Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil's newest production takes viewers into the tiny world of insects. "OVO" performances started Wednesday at Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Parkway in Estero, and continue at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and at 5 p.m. Sunday, with matinees at 4 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets to see the 50 acrobats, aerialists and contortionists range from $37 to $152. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit germainarena.com.

Another 203 apartments coming to Estero

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/government/2016/09/28/another-203-apartments-coming-estero/91238994/

This is great news, we always need more rentals in Southwest Florida!

A community of 203 apartments will be built next to Miromar Outlets mall in Estero.

Springs at Gulf Coast obtained permission from the Estero Design Review Board on Wednesday night.

Fall is the most-affordable time to buy a home

http://www.fox4now.com/marketplace/fall/fall-is-the-most-affordable-time-to-buy-a-home

I don't think this is really always the case for our area in Florida but it makes a lot of sense in other parts of the country!


Key takeaways

Summer is typically the most expensive time to buy. In the majority of metro areas analyzed, home sale prices peak in June and July. Inventory is also highest those months, but so is competition.

Sale prices fall in autumn. Home listing prices don’t fall dramatically once summer ends — they only decrease less than half a percent in the fall. But sale prices take a noticeable dip. In the 50 metro areas, home sale prices dropped 2.96% on average — that’s a drop of $8,300 on the median home — from summer (June through August) to fall (September through November).

Home sale prices are usually lowest in winter. If you can wait a little longer to buy, hold off until January or February, when homes cost 8.45% less on average than in June through August. January had the cheapest sale prices in 29 of the 50 metro areas, and February had the cheapest prices in 19 areas.

Average Time to Close: 46 Days

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/27/average-time-close-46-days?om_rid=AADG2i&om_mid=_BX6rqrB9TIGbMP&om_ntype=RMODaily

I still think 46 days is too long...I remember when it was easily 30 days for closing with a mortgage.

The time to close on a mortgage loan is leveling off at about a month and a half.

Signs You Need to Upgrade or Sell Your House

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/signs-you-need-to-upgrade-or-sell-your-house/ar-BBwvt13#page=2

Sometimes these issues can feel overwhelming for homeowners before you go crazy make sure you a renovation or small remodel isn't ruled out!

You Have a Full House — and Are Expecting - Upgrade
Your Kids Are Tired of Being Roommates - Remodel
Your Updated House Still Feels Old - Remodel
Your Kids Moved Out - Downsize
You Found the Perfect House, But It’s Too Small - don't buy it
You Miss Air Conditioning - remodel!

Study: Outdoor Projects Pay Back at Resale

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/27/study-outdoor-projects-pay-back-resale?om_rid=AADG2i&om_mid=_BX6rqrB9TIGbMP&om_ntype=RMODaily

This is probably even more impactful in Florida where outdoor space is important to a lot of buyers.

REALTORS® ranked the following outdoor remodeling projects as the most likely to add value to a home at resale (listed from highest to lowest):

Landscape upgrade
New patio
New wood deck
Standard lawn care
Sod lawn
Softscape
Seed lawn
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor firepit
New pool

'Massive' shortage in appraisers causing home sales delays

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/massive-shortage-in-appraisers-causing-home-sales-delays/ar-BBwHkuC

The regulations have significantly changed and it is causing a shortage of appraisers entering the market. This has a huge impact on the home sales, causing deals to fall apart or extensions on contracts. Hopefully they do address some of the issues or we might be in trouble a few years down the road.

Since 2007, when the U.S. housing market came crashing down, the number of appraisers has shrunk by 22 percent, according to the Appraisal Institute, an industry association. With so few new cadets, the current population of appraisers is aging. More than 60 percent are over the age of 50.

15 Best Money Habits to Have When Renting an Apartment

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/15-best-money-habits-to-have-when-renting-an-apartment/ss-AAiIWOt

With rental rates sky high right now here are some ideas for budgeting when renting so you can save as much money as possible and hopefully segway into homeownership.

SAVE UP FOR A SECURITY DEPOSIT
PUT ASIDE MONEY FOR APPLICATION FEES
BUDGET FOR PETS
INVEST IN RENTERS INSURANCE
DON’T WASTE MONEY ON STORAGE
ALLOCATE MONEY FOR UTILITIES
FIND A PLACE NEAR WORK OR SCHOOL
PAY RENT ON TIME
SAVE MONEY TO MOVE AGAIN
KEEP AN EYE ON LONG-TERM GOALS
CUT CORNERS WHEREVER YOU CAN EVERY DAY
FIND WAYS TO HAVE FRUGAL FUN
DON’T BLOW ALL YOUR MONEY ON COSTLY MOVERS
SAVE MONEY AND SUBLET
LIVE BELOW YOUR MEANS

10 Kitchen Organization Tips To Steal From The Hosts Of 'Fixer Upper'

http://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/home-and-garden/10-kitchen-organization-tips-to-steal-from-the-hosts-of-fixer-upper/ss-AAixmoB?li=BBnb7Kz#image=2

I love an organized space - I don't cook often however maybe someday I will put these all to use in my own personal life!

1. Use a chalkboard to organize your dinner plans for the week.
2. Add shelves above your counter to have dishware that you use often readily available.
3. "Spank" your kitchen, a.k.a. declutter your pantry, cabinets, and fridge on the regular.
4. Get a cookbook stand to reference recipes hands-free and stay organized while cooking.
5. Get individual potted herbs if you don't have the space for a garden.
6. And if you have the kitchen space, create a whole wall of them—they double as decor and ingredients.
7. Reuse egg shells to plant starters.
8. Keep your favorite kitchen tools on display with door-free cabinets.
9. Plan your dinner around what produce you need to use up.
10. Remember that it's OK to make a total mess of your kitchen on the weekends.

History for sale: Owner of former Everglades City bank seeks buyer

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/money/business/local/2016/09/25/history-sale-owner-former-everglades-city-bank-seeks-buyer/90699448/

What a lovely building with a rich history - hopefully the next owner will keep it intact.

Hurricane Donna hit Everglades City in 1960 and flooded most of the town, including the bank. Five feet of water covered the historic building’s beautiful hardwood floors, and all of the money inside the vault — $1 million — was soaked, so the bank dried the bills by hanging them on a clothesline outside … and not a single dollar went missing.

Mystery company to get $480K incentive, create 57 jobs

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/local/2016/09/27/mystery-company-get-480k-incentive-create-53-jobs/91161770/

This is exciting, and the jobs they are creating have high average salaries for community members!

The county will give the company, nicknamed "Project Ice," up to $483,452 in cash incentives over a four-year period. The company is promising to create at least 57 new jobs that pay an average salary of $180,000 a year. “Project Ice” is also inline to receive up to $399,000 in state money, or $7,000 for every job it creates under a state incentive program.

Sales of new homes plunge by more than 7 percent

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/sales-of-new-homes-plunge-by-more-than-7-percent/ar-BBwEuik

This is an interesting statistic, it appears that it can be attributed to a lack of inventory of new homes for sale. 

The Commerce Department says new home sales dropped 7.6 percent last month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 609,000 units. That followed a surge in sales in July, when they jumped 13.8 percent to a rate of 659,000, the fastest pace since October 2007.

Red vs. Blue States: Which Has the Best Homes?

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/26/red-vs-blue-states-which-has-best-homes

In honor of the debate here are some stats!

• Priciest homes: Blue state
• Most home owners: Red states
• The biggest homes: Red states
• The most second-home owners: Blue states

League hopes to make Naples a spearfishing destination

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/local/2016/09/24/league-hopes-turn-naples-into-spearfishing-destination/90007216/

I don't know much about spearfishing but it looks like it might catch on in Naples.  I never would have drawn the conclusion that it could be similar to meditation and you get fresh seafood for dinner on top of it!

Spearfishing, proponents say, is one of the best methods to keep the lionfish population under control before the voracious eaters decimate native populations.

Collier County tourism officials have been working to boost the area’s fishing prestige ever since hundreds of thousands of tons of concrete rubble were dropped in a few locations about 10 miles offshore from Naples and Marco Island to create 36 artificial reefs.

“When you’re diving your reflex engages and your heart rate slows. Your breathing rate slows and you actually feel colder because your body is taking blood away from your limbs to use the oxygen more efficiently in your organs. It’s total relaxation, like meditation.”

Finding the Best Layout for Any Room in Your House

http://www.zillow.com/digs/guides/new-home/best-layout-room/

Arranging furniture can be challenging.  I personally go with the trial and error plan while breaking a sweat pushing furniture around the house.  My sister and I are experts at this method...Maybe we should try this....

STEP 1: Make a sketch of the room on graph paper so you can try different arrangements on paper before moving heavy furniture.

STEP 2: Assess entrances, exits, windows, heating vents, and other elements that cannot move and need to be worked around. Make sure to note these on your graph paper.

STEP 3: Take stock of your current furniture. A measuring tape will be useful here, so you can map out what might fit where; be sure to consider furniture size in relation to layout. Pencil them in on your sketch and move things around on paper again until you find an arrangement that seems satisfactory.

Check out the link above for room specific tips!

EB-5 visa program set to expire Sept. 30

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?p=1&id=343109

This may or may not be extended, and if it does get extended, some of the terms may change, just something to keep an eye on if you are part of the program.

Without a Congressional extension, the EB-5 visa program that grants visas to foreigners who invest at least $500,000 in an American business that creates 10 jobs will expire on Sept. 30.

8 Surprising Factors That Can Affect Your Home's Value

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/8-surprising-factors-that-can-affect-your-homes-value/ar-BBwueGT

The first few can hurt your property value the last few can help!  I don't buy into the superstitions however I know I have had a few clients that have in the past.

1. The name of your street (really!)
2. Your house number
3. Sketchy neighbors
4. Mature Trees
5. Crown Moldings
6. Starbucks
7. Yankees paraphernalia
8. A death on the property

23 Upgrades Under $50 to Make Your House Look Awesome

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/23-upgrades-under-dollar50-to-make-your-house-look-awesome/ar-AAiQuIB?li=BBnb7Kz

Small changes can make a huge impact on the feel of your home - try a few and see!

1. Do a cheap facelift - Paint
2. Update a bathroom faucet
3. Declutter
4. Make a Mason jar lamp
5. Dress up an old sofa 
6. Tackle carpet stains
7. Make a faux tile kitchen backsplash
8. Reupholster an ottoman
9. Rearrange bookshelves
10. Upgrade cabinet hardware 
11. Rearrange furniture
12. Brighten the entry
13. Install a front door kick plate
14. Paint exterior shutters and trim
15. Install new doorknobs
16. Make a new headboard
17. Shine a new light
18. Add drama with light
19. Give your home a deep cleaning
20. Add container plants
21. Install kitchen utility hooks
22. Install new house numbers
23. Give light switch covers new life

Must the association approve the home's exterior color?

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/money/real-estate/2016/09/18/must-association-approve-homes-exterior-color/90364954/

I always enjoy reading legal advice, there are more scenario's on the link about however here is on that I found interesting.


Q: I live in a homeowners association and serve as chairman of the architectural review board (ARB). An owner recently submitted an application to repaint the exterior of his home a bright yellow color. The home is currently painted light brown. Our ARB rejected the application because we feel that the proposed bright color is aesthetically unpleasing and no other homes in our community are painted this color. The owner is protesting the ARB’s decision and threatening to sue. The owner alleges that the ARB is breaking the law by rejecting his color request because the association doesn’t have a specific list of permitted colors. Is the owner correct? Do we have to allow the owner to paint the exterior of their home bright yellow?

— B.M., Naples

A: Maybe. ARB disputes are one of the most common causes of litigation between a homeowners association and its members. The ARB is required to evaluate each ARB application based on the authority contained within the homeowners association’s governing documents and any properly adopted ARB guidelines. The Florida Homeowners Association Act (Chapter 720 of the Florida Statutes) currently requires architectural standards or guidelines for a community to be “specifically stated or reasonably inferred as to such location, size, type, or appearance.” This law was adopted in 2007, and its retroactive application is a matter of some debate. Under current statutory law, decisions as to the exterior paint color of a given home should be based on documented architectural standards and cannot simply be based upon the “whim” of the ARB. That said, the legal analysis of this issue is often very fact-intensive. Prior decisions of the ARB, the community aesthetics and scheme of development will be material considerations.

Florida home builders WCI and Lennar agree to merge

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/local/2016/09/22/wci-lennar-merge-home-builders/90828380/

Both of these builders are highly regarded in the area and this merger should be complete by Dec or January.

Miami-based Lennar Corp.agreed Thursday to acquire all of the outstanding shares of WCI Communities in a cash-and-stock deal that values the Bonita Springs-based builder at about $643 million in equity, or an enterprise value of $809 million.

WCI Communities

» Al Hoffman Jr. purchases Westinghouse Communities in 1995, forming a new company and retaining its initials.

» Company builds a luxury brand and expands outside Florida but suffers from recession and Chinese drywall problems. It files Chapter 11, but emerges and reorganizes in 2009.

» Second-quarter homebuilding revenues are $132 million, up 14.2 percent from previous year quarter.

Lennar

» Three partners form F&R Builders in Miami in the mid ‘50s; in 1971 two of the partners combine their first names, Leonard and Arnold, to become Lennar and take the company public.

» In 2000, Lennar acquires U.S. Home and doubles in size.

» In 2014 the company introduces Lennar Commercial to specialize in developing, managing and investing in mixed use, retail and other commercial properties.

NABOR Report

Summer Activity Indicates Promising Season   Contacts: Rick Fioretti, President, (239) 597-1666, Marcia Albert, NABOR® Director of Marketing, (239) 597-1666 Naples, Fla. (September 16, 2016) - The housing market's momentum continues to remain strong heading into fall. Upon reviewing the August 2016 Market Report released by the Naples Area Board of REALTORS® (NABOR®), which tracks home listings and sales within Collier County (excluding Marco Island), NABOR® broker analysts cited several reasons why buyers and sellers can expect a promising winter season such as the inventory is continuing to increase and the median closed prices are remaining virtually unchanged.   Overall activity of properties in the $2 million and above price category failed to perform as well in August compared to other price categories. However, condominium inventory in this luxury segment of the market increased 84 percent to 81 condominiums in August 2016 from 44 condominiums in August 2015, while its overall median closed price fell 19 percent (year over year) to $2,537,000 in August 2016 from $3,132,000 in August 2015. This behavior of increased inventory and lower prices primes the luxury segment of the market for a season where the number of properties priced right can certainly meet demand.   NABOR® broker analysts suspect some potential buyers of high-end properties may be reluctant to make big financial decisions because of the uncertainty of the economy after the Presidential election. However, as the report indicated, activity in this segment of the market is historically lower than it is during seasonal months. Brokers were quick to point out that this tapering is anticipated during the summer and expect sales in this segment to rise as we move into the next season.    Upon reviewing the report, Steve Barker, Advising Broker for Equity Realty, remarked that buyers looking for homes in the under $300,000 price category found plenty of options in the Naples condominium market. "There were 211 closed sales for condominiums in the $300,000 and below price category in August compared to 93 in all other price categories combined."   The median closed price for condominiums in this entry-level price category was $193,000. August also saw a 50 percent increase in inventory for condominiums in the $300,000 and below price category to 974 condominiums in August 2016 from 648 condominiums in August 2015.    Barker continued, "As the reports indicate, sales have been pretty steady over the summer. Overall, there were 627 closed sales in July and 654 in August. Sales in the high end might have been a bit softer this summer compared to last year, but I do not think it is an indication of anything but how buyers behave during a presidential election year."   Overall inventory increased 36 percent for the second month in a row to 4,787 homes in August 2016 from 3,525 homes in August 2015. In fact, while inventory rose in all price categories for both home types, the overall median closed price remained flat in August, with the exception of homes in the $300,000 and below price category, which increased 9 percent to $210,000 in August 2016 from $192,000 in August 2015.    Mike Hughes, Vice President and General Manager for Downing-Frye Realty, Inc., pointed out that even though overall inventory decreased slightly over the last five months; historically, it's projected to swing upwards starting next month. If prices continue to remain stable as they have over the last year, then Hughes believes that more choices and reasonable prices will make for a good season.    The NABOR® August 2016 Market Report provides comparisons of single-family home and condominium sales (via the Southwest Florida MLS), price ranges, and geographic segmentation and includes an overall market summary. The NABOR® August 2016 sales statistics are presented in chart format, including these overall (single-family and condominium) findings:    CATEGORIES August 2016 August 2015 CHANGE Total homes under contract (pending sales) 734 811 -9% Total closed sales 654 689 -5% Median closed price $320,000 $306,000 5% Total active listings (inventory) 4,787 3,525 36% Average days on market  88 75 13% Single-family closed sales 350 348 1% Single-family median closed price $384,000 $388,000 -1% Single-family inventory 2,554 2,025 26% Condominium closed sales 304 341 -11% Condominium median closed price $232,000 $235,000 -1% Condominium inventory 2,233 1,500 49%   Geographically, overall closed sales in East Naples increased 10 percent to 136 homes in August 2016 from 124 homes in August 2015. Also impressive was the 12 percent increase in single family closed sales in the East Naples area to 91 homes in August 2016 from 81 homes in August 2015, and a 72 percent increase in condominium inventory in North Naples to 639 condominiums in August 2016 from 371 condominiums in August 2015.   Broker analysts have long acknowledged that a small portion of new construction inventory appears in the Southwest Florida MLS data. To confirm such speculation, Wes Kunkle, President and Managing Broker at Kunkle International Realty, performed an independent analysis of the MLS in August and found that, "approximately 20 percent of active listings in select geographic areas of high development were new construction."   If you are weighing the pros and cons of buying or selling a home in the coming months, let a REALTOR® be your guide. A REALTOR® can help you do a market comparison and determine a fair and reasonable listing price. A REALTOR® can also identify properties best suited for your needs and negotiate a purchase price that fits your budget.

Chinese buyers have Dallas real estate on their shopping list

http://www.dallasnews.com/business/commercial-real-estate/headlines/20160913-chinese-buyers-have-dallas-real-estate-on-their-shopping-list.ece

New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Chicago and Dallas are the top spots for Chinese buyers, according to a new report by KPMG.

Last year, Chinese buyers spent almost $10 billion on U.S. property.

Was my home a good investment?

http://money.cnn.com/calculator/pf/home-rate-of-return/?iid=SF_LN

There are many ways to gauge if your home was a good investment however this calculator is fun! I am looking to sell my investment property and it was fun to see what my return would be.  Check it out by clicking the link above!

The middle class gets a big raise ... finally!

http://money.cnn.com/2016/09/13/news/economy/median-income-census/index.html

This is a great sign for our economy - we are still below 1999 levels.

Median household income rose to $56,516 in 2015, up 5.2% from a year earlier, according to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau Tuesday. It marks the first increase in median income since 2007, the year before the Great Recession started.

Collier commissioners approve new WCI project in North Naples

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/money/real-estate/2016/09/13/collier-commissioners-approve-new-wci-project-north-naples/90315584/

I always think WCI does a great job on their properties. There was a lot of concern from the Tiburon & Marsala neighbors however it seems to have had a peaceful ending!

WCI plans to build 66 single-family homes on a little more than 43 acres north of Vanderbilt Beach Road and east of Livingston Road.

Apartment renters aren't moving much

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/apartment-renters-arent-moving-much/ar-AAizt2z

The article cites a few reasons for this, strict lending, wage increases have not kept up with real estate pricing so many cannot afford to buy, & not many choices if renters wanted to move. To top it off rental rates have been skyrocketing because of the demand so saving is difficult!

The share of renters opting to renew their leases hit an all-time high of 53.8% through the first seven months of the year, up from 52.9% in 2015, according to new data from property management software provider RealPage.

6 Home Renovations You Can DIY

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/6-home-renovations-you-can-diy/ar-AAiy95Y#page=1

Here are some things that make sense to do yourself but keep in mind what the article says: But not all DIY jobs pay off — in some cases, you might find yourself doing a lot of work and spending more than you would have to just hire a professional in the first place.

1. Instead of replacing your windows, fix them
2. Create a home office
3. Add new siding to the outside of the home
4. Replace a floor with new vinyl tiles
5. Plant a tree windscreen to protect the home’s exterior
6. Build an outdoor space, patio or deck

5 Things You Need To Know now About Interest Rates

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/5-things-you-need-to-know-now-about-interest-rates/ar-AAiQP5r

No one has a crystal ball but here are what some leading experts say about interest rates!

1. Predicting interest rates can help strengthen your strategy
2. Interest rates seem unlikely to rise anytime soon
3. Prepare for when interest rates do rise (they will rise quickly) 
4. Interest rates shouldn’t drive your purchase
5. Consider other factors before you buy

A Look at Pricing Per Square Foot by Region

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/13/look-pricing-square-foot-region?om_rid=AADG2i&om_mid=_BX2FO8B9Sjk3rN&om_ntype=RMODaily

Thes prices are on new single family homes. I am a bit surprised at the differences and it is interesting to see, yet a big piece of the picture is missing which is the price of the developed land.

The South Region had the least expensive spec homes, with median sales prices per square foot ranging from $78 in the East South Central division to $87 in the West South Central division.

“Typically, contractor-built custom homes are more expensive per square foot than spec homes after excluding improved lot values, suggesting that new custom home buyers are not only willing to wait longer to move into a new home but also pay extra for more expensive features and materials,”

How US house prices have changed since 1963

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/how-us-house-prices-have-changed-since-1963/ss-AAizPLw?li=BBnbfcN#image=1


This is a fun slideshow that compares an event to the home prices! I selected a few to share but click the link above to view them all.

1963: PRESIDENT KENNEDY IS ASSASSINATED
1963 went down in history for all the wrong reasons, at least in the US. Buying a new home that year would have cost you around $19,300 (equivalent to $151,780 today).

1975: MICROSOFT IS FOUNDED
In the year Bill Gates and Paul Allen joined forces to create Microsoft, inflation rates continued to skyrocket. House prices remained steady though, with new-builds costing $42,600 on average (that’s $190,550 to you and me).

1991: WORLD WIDE WEB INTRODUCED
In 1991, Tim Berners-Lee officially introduced the world wide web to the public. If you were buying your first property that same year, you’d have been in luck – the price of a new home fell to $147,200 ($260,080 now) as the economic bubble burst.

2007: GLOBAL FINANCIAL CRISIS BEGINS
By 2007, the price of new homes had risen to an average of $313,600 ($374,340 in current terms). But it wasn’t to last long – the American housing bubble exploded later that year as a global financial crisis began.

2015: POPE FRANCIS VISITS THE US – $360,600
When Pope Francis made his first visit to the US in 2015 new house prices were averaging $360,600.

Paint Colors That Make a Room Look Bigger

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/13/paint-colors-add-spaciousness?om_rid=AADG2i&om_mid=_BX2FO8B9Sjk3rN&om_ntype=RMODaily

If a room is small the paint color can be very helpful in changing the perception to future buyers and for your own enjoyment as well! Here are some colors and why they are good:

White: White reflects light, thereby making a space look brighter and feel more open.

Yellow: A creamy and soft yellow can also reflect light, and can create a softer alternative to white (as long as it’s not too bold of a yellow).

Gray: A calming, light shade can help expand a room and, unlike white, doesn’t cast off a glare.

Monochromatic color schemes: Use a monochromatic color scheme for the entire space to open it up (in other words, stick with the white, gray or soft yellow and don’t introduce then a bolder color).

Dream castles you can buy right now

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/dream-castles-you-can-buy-right-now/ss-BBvGt7A?li=BBnb7Kz

Well they range in price 3.9 million to 34 million!  Let me know if you want to buy one!

6 Things You Should Never Say When You’re Selling Your Home

http://www.realtor.com/advice/sell/things-to-never-say-when-selling-home/?is_wp_site=1&cid=soc_2017editorial_20160912_65822956

This is all incredible advice every seller should read.  It is better to just keep quiet!

‘Our house is in perfect condition’
“There simply is no such thing as ‘perfect condition.’

‘It’s been on the market for X…’
bringing it up—especially if the home has been available for eons—can send sellers the wrong message.

‘We’ve never had a problem with…’
“You’re setting yourself up for potential liability,”

‘We always wanted to fix/renovate that, but…’
“When sellers point out things they might change, this only alerts the buyer of more upcoming costs for them,”

We spent a ton of money on X, Y, and Z’
“The buyer doesn’t care whether you spent $10,000 or $100,000 on your kitchen,” says Ameer. “They are only going to offer what they feel the home is worth in relation to area comparable sales.”

‘I’m not taking less than X amount for my home’
“If you send a message that you are inflexible or not open to negotiating, it may not invite buyers to even try to work out acceptable price and terms as they will feel defeated from the start,”

Mediterranean-Style Homes Losing Appeal?

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/12/mediterranean-style-homes-losing-appeal?om_rid=AADG2i&om_mid=_BX1xrWB9SgJ6yx&om_ntype=RMODaily

We have been seeing this trend for sometime, Mediterranean is out! We are seeing a lot of clean lines, whites, & grey!

Mediterranean-style homes are known for stucco walls, tumbled stone, and wrought-iron accents. Mediterranean-style homes have a median list price of $750,000—triple the amount of the median list price for homes of all other styles, according to a realtor.com® analysis. But since 2012, asking prices for the style have stayed flat while median home prices have increased 25 percent.

Notably, modern homes have seen the largest jump in median asking prices, surging 37 percent over four years.

First-time buyers are slowly re-emerging

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?p=3&id=342586

It is good to see that first time home buyers are getting into the market, however with Millenials there still needs to be a lot more!

Last August, about 35 percent of homebuyers identified themselves as first-time buyers. Flash-forward one year later, the share of buyers identifying themselves as first-timers has soared to 51 percent, according to research by realtor.com®.

7 Money Traps to Avoid When Moving

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/7-money-traps-to-avoid-when-moving/ar-BBw4Rsj

I know I dislike moving, and so do many others.  Thats why rent increases are so easy to impose on tenants. Here are a few things to consider (I didn't know about permits in big cities even)

According to U.S. News & World Report, average intrastate moving costs in 2014 totaled $1,170, while interstate rates averaged $5,630.

Getting an Estimate Over the Phone
Forgetting to Factor in Additional Fees
Paying the Mover a Deposit
Not Calculating the Hidden Costs of Moving on Your Own
Paying for Packing Materials
Failing to Get a Moving Permit (big cities)
Not Protecting Your Move

Real Estate’s Public Image Surges

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/12/real-estate-s-public-image-surges?om_rid=AADG2i&om_mid=_BX1xrWB9SgJ6yx&om_ntype=RMODaily

This is great that real estate is being viewed more favorably.  Much of the world runs on perception and this shows confidence.

Americans are rating the real estate industry much more favorably, according to a new Gallup poll of more than 1,000 Americans. Forty-four percent of Americans now view the industry positively and 21 percent view it negatively, according to Gallup. That boosts real estate to a plus-23 rating, which is up from a minus-40 following the housing crash in 2008.

Major changes coming to Victoria Square retail center in Naples

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/columnists/tim-aten-in-the-know/2016/09/12/know-major-changes-coming-victoria-square-retail-center-naples/90140300/

New development is great however the Downtown Auto Service is being displaced and does not have a new location yet!

Here is what is going there:

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery is expanding into the remaining space of Victoria Square retail center, the more than 17,000-square-foot building on the southwest corner of Central Avenue and Goodlette-Frank Road.

The 1½-acre corner lot at 2 Goodlette Road S. owned by James and Christopher Shucart, of Naples-based JCS Realty Group. A 6,100-square-foot commercial warehouse that fronts 12th Street South will be razed to make way for a new five-unit retail strip on the northwest corner of the lot.

Inequality is widening, even in real estate

http://money.cnn.com/2016/08/31/real_estate/real-estate-inequality/index.html?iid=Lead

This is crazy how fast big city pricing has skyrocketed....it makes it very difficult for the Millennial generation that likes to be in these urban areas purchase.

In 1986, the average home price in the nation's most expensive markets was $127,058. That's 144% higher than the average home price of $52,022 in the least expensive real estate markets.

Fast forward to 2016, and the average home price in the costliest markets is $493,504 -- nearly 320% higher than the current $117,827 home price average in the lowest priced markets.

The more expensive markets tend to have higher incomes, which can push up home prices since buyers are able to afford more and compete against each other.

Here are the areas that have seen the biggest return on home values since 1986:
1. San Francisco
2. San Jose, California
3. Honolulu, Hawaii
4. Seattle
5. Portland, Oregon
6. Oakland, California
7. Orange County, California
8. Los Angeles
9. San Diego 

10. Miami

Mortgage rates are finally break higher: What you should watch

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/mortgage-rates-are-finally-break-higher-what-you-should-watch/ar-AAiNUWz

Rates increasing can rock the boat significantly and make all parties involved nervous but the good news is it was a small move and last Dec the small increase then fell back again. Just something to keep in mind and maybe consider starting that refi!

Mortgage rates took their biggest leap in two months on Friday, thanks to a sell-off in the U.S. bond market. It was only an eighth of a percentage point move... 

But even if the Federal Reserve raises its funds rate this month, mortgage rates may not move much higher. After the central bank made its first increase last December, mortgage rates moved up briefly, but then fell again.

4 Things to Consider if You're Looking to Buy a Rental Property

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/4-things-to-consider-if-youre-looking-to-buy-a-rental-property/ar-AAiN5v4

Stepping into the rental market is a big decision and can be financially rewarding.  Make sure you fully understand all costs related to the process, repairs and property management fees can derail your financial goals. So its important to outline goals and expenses prior to writing a contract.

• Location, Location, Location
• Get Real About Repairs
• Return on Investment
• Property Type

Long-awaited Collier memorial for 9/11 unveiled

http://www.nbc-2.com/story/33057941/long-awaited-collier-memorial-for-911-unveiled

I have been watching this construction, glad it is finally finished!

It's a project more than 13 years in the making, but on Friday, the Freedom Memorial honoring more than 3,000 9/11 victims and first-responders in Collier County's Freedom Park was unveiled.

10 Cheap, Effective Ways to Pest-Proof Your Home

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/10-cheap-effective-ways-to-pest-proof-your-home/ar-AAiI0EA

Florida is know for its wildlife - but you don't want it in your home!  Here are a few tips.

Seal and repair openings
Give your pets a dining space
Keep a clean kitchen
Keep a dry home
Clean up the yard
Invite birds
Store firewood away from the house
Make a homemade flytrap
Don’t kill mice — trap them
Practice mosquito management

7 Features Home Buyers Want Most

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/househuntingguide/7-features-home-buyers-want-most/ss-AAdyhjV?li=BBnb7Kz

I would agree with this assessment when working with buyers these are all very common requests! 

LAUNDRY ROOM
Percentage of buyers who want this feature: 92%

EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Percentage of buyers who want this feature: 90%

ENERGY EFFICIENCIES (APPLIANCES AND WINDOWS)
Percentage of buyers who want this feature: 90% (appliances), 87% (windows)

PATIO
Percentage of buyers who want this feature: 84%

HARDWOOD FLOORS
Percentage of buyers who want this feature: 82%

GARAGE STORAGE SPACE
Percentage of buyers who want this feature: 81%

EAT-IN KITCHEN
Percentage of buyers who want this feature: 80%

Fifteen years later: Southwest Florida remembers 9/11

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/2016/09/08/fifteen-years-later-southwest-florida-remembers-911/90089588/

The following is a list of events being held to reflect on the 15th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

9/11 Memorial Service (Fort Myers)
7 p.m. Sunday at First Assembly of God Church, 4701 Summerlin Road, Fort Myers. The one-hour service, featuring a number of area ministers and rabbis, will take place in the sanctuary. The public is not only invited to remember the 3,000 Americans killed on that day. In addition to speakers, there will be patriotic music by local artists as well as the Lee County Sheriff's Office color guard presenting the flag. The program will be directed by Rabbi Solomon Agin and hosted by Pastor Dan Betzer.


9/11 Memorial Service (Golden Gate)
9:30 a.m. Sunday at the Golden Gate Government Complex, 4715 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. Sponsored by the Golden Gate Civic Association, Golden Gate High School, Golden Gate Middle School, Golden Gate VFW Post 7721, the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Legacy Options Cremation & Funeral Services and Greater Naples Fire & Rescue. 239-353-1687.


9/11 Memorial Service (Naples)
10 a.m. Sunday at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 500 Park Shore Drive, Naples. A special gathering of Naples and Collier County first responders. Guest speakers, worship and prayer, with a special reception to follow. Special invite to families and children to meet firefighters and police officers and see their vehicles. All are encouraged to RSVP to St. John’s Episcopal Church by calling Ann at 239-261-2355.


9/11 Memorial Service (Fort Myers/Estero)
10:30 a.m. Sunday at Gulf Coast Church at Three Oaks Middle School, 15800 Three Oaks Parkway, Fort Myers. A luncheon will follow the service. All are welcome.


9/11 Memorial Service (Naples)
Noon to 1 p.m. Sunday at Fred W. Coyle Freedom Park, 1515 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. A remembrance service sponsored by the Gulfcoast Retired Firefighters Association will honor those who perished on Sept. 11, 2001.


Tribute to Our First Responders and inaugural Naples Nites Lions Club Chili Cookoff
All day Sunday at Golden Gate Community Park, 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Naples. This festival is to pay tribute to the first responders in Collier County. There will be all kinds of activities for all ages throughout the day, with the cookoff to be one of the highlights. Ten teams will be accepted for the chili event, with trophies awarded for first, second and third places. Notables from the county will serve as judges. The rules are: 1.) Arrive at the park between 8-9 a.m. 2.) All food prep must be done at your stand; no prep cooking. 3.) You will have until 1 p.m. to present your finished chili to the judges table. Entry fee is $25, all of which will go toward a scholarship fund for a graduating first responder's child. Checks should be made payable to the event's sponsor, The Naples Nites Lions Club. Information: Skip Haeger, president, 239-777-1085.


Naples 9/11 Memorial Stair Run
9 a.m. stair climb Sunday at the Greater Naples YMCA, 5450 YMCA Road, Naples. Opening ceremony begins at 8 a.m., vendors and food open at 10 a.m. The run will consist of 17 laps on the main campus. It will start with a run by going up the west staircase (by the spin room), across the rooftop and back down the east staircase. Suggested $10 donation benefiting the Freedom Memorial Foundation of Naples. Register online at http://tiny.cc/ymca911 or in person.

30 Tips for VA Home Loan Applicants

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/30-tips-for-va-home-loan-applicants/ss-AAitEEp#image=2

VA loans can be pretty awesome, and you can finance 100% of the home in many situations.  They are a bit more complicated so it is important to understand the loan and what is allowed - many times they have addition inspection requirements and sometimes can take a bit longer to close.  The most important thing would be to have a lender that is familiar with these loans! 

1. LEARN YOUR VA LOAN ADVANTAGES AND OPTIONS
2. DETERMINE YOUR VA LOAN ELIGIBILITY
3. KNOW HOW TO GET A CERTIFICATE OF ELIGIBILITY
4. COLLECT YOUR COE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS
5. SAVE MONEY TO USE FOR HOMEBUYING COSTS
6. CHECK YOUR VA LOAN LIMIT
7. COMPARE THE VARIOUS TYPES OF VA LOANS
8. AVOID LATE PAYMENTS ON YOUR CURRENT MORTGAGE
9. DON'T LET A LACK OF CREDIT HISTORY SLOW YOU DOWN
10. CHOOSE A REALTOR WHO KNOWS VA HOME LOANS
11. DETERMINE WHETHER YOU MEET OCCUPANCY REQUIREMENTS
12. UNDERSTAND SELLER-PAID CLOSING COSTS AND CONCESSIONS
13. DON’T SWEAT YOUR FORMER BANKRUPTCY OR FORECLOSURE
14. UNDERSTAND THE VA HOME LOAN RESIDUAL INCOME REQUIREMENT
15. DON’T BUY BIG-TICKET ITEMS ON CREDIT WHILE GETTING A VA LOAN
16. COMPARE RATES ON VA HOME LOANS
17. CHECK YOUR VA CLOSING-COST LIMITS
18. GET FAMILIAR WITH THE VA HOME LOAN APPRAISAL PROCESS
19. CHECK THE VA-APPROVED CONDO LIST
20. USE THE SPECIALLY ADAPTED HOUSING GRANT FOR DISABLED VETERANS
21. INVESTIGATE THE OPTION OF BUILDING A HOME

Five fixes that can raise a home’s value

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?p=5&id=342537

If you are thinking about making some minor changes to your home prior to selling here are a few ideas - many things can be done cost effectively and will pay off!

1. Open up the space
2. Light it up
3. Enhance the front door
4. Pay attention to the floors
5. Tackle easy bathroom upgrades

Where millennials won’t leave the nest

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?p=5&id=342497

These states with the highest Millennials living at home make sense, where there is a shortage of affordable rentals and a lack of housing!

Here are the states that have the highest percentage of millennials still living at home:

New Jersey: 43.9%
Connecticut: 38.8%
New York: 37.4%
Florida:37.2%
California: 36.7%

Hidden Expenses of Building Your Own House

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/hidden-expenses-of-building-your-own-house/ss-BBvRPpS

Fortunately, many of these things are taken care of when you build in a planned community here in Collier County but if you want to build a custom home here are some things to keep in mind when planning your budget.  

HIRING AN ARCHITECT TO DRAW UP PLANS
HIRING A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
HIRING A GENERAL CONTRACTOR
BUYING MATERIALS DIRECTLY FROM BUILDERS
GETTING PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS
SETTING UP ELECTRICITY
SETTING UP A WATER HOOKUP
SEWAGE OR SEPTIC SETUP
LANDSCAPING YOUR NEW HOME
TEMPORARY SITE COSTS DURING THE BUILD
CREATING A DRIVEWAY
LIGHT FIXTURES AND LIGHT BULBS
DOOR AND CABINET HARDWARE
WINDOW SCREENS AND TREATMENTS
BATHROOM FIXTURES LIKE MIRRORS AND TOWEL RODS
KITCHEN APPLIANCES
TEMPORARY ACCOMMODATIONS
UPGRADES TO PREPLANNED MODELS
UNEXPECTED SURPRISES
MODIFICATIONS TO THE CONTRACT

'Zombies' — vacant homes in foreclosure — decline in Collier and Lee

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/money/real-estate/2016/09/08/zombies----vacant-homes-foreclosure----decline-collier-and-lee-counties/89966988/

In general, the foreclosures are few and far between in Collier County. Its a great thing to see for the health of our market. People still ask for the great deals on foreclosures, the great deals don't really happen anymore. The banks want the market value of the homes now that they are not overwhelmed and caught up on the process.

A new report by ATTOM Data Solutions shows the number of vacant homes in the foreclosure process — known as zombie homes — fell to 13 in Collier County and 62 in Lee County in the third quarter.

Let’s Talk Quartz: There’s Good Reason To

http://styledstagedsold.blogs.realtor.org/2016/09/05/lets-talk-quartz-theres-good-reason-to/

I am enjoying the quartz! If you are renovating maybe avoid the granite. 

Granite no longer reigns. The most popular countertop material remodelers say they’re using is quartz, then followed by granite.

Here are a few advantages: 

More resistant to heat and scratches. Plus, the
Resemblance to marble
Abundant color variations

7 best bars in Old Naples

http://www.news-press.com/story/life/food/sharon-kenny/2016/09/06/best-bars-old-naples-campielle-riptide-ridgways-continental-sunset/89880962/

I like most of the suggestions on here...I would add one Tulia & Bar Tulia on 5th Ave S which is my favorite downtown!

Best late night and imaginative food: 7th Avenue Social
Best beer: Riptide is Naples’ hippest brew pub.
Best waterfront location: Riverwalk at Tin City
Best people watching: This still has to be Campiello on Third St. South
Best mixology and beautiful design: The Continental
Best sunset view: The Sunset Bar at the Naples Beach Hotel
Best seats for Santa: Ridgways

4 Colors That Decrease The Value Of Your Home

http://www.simplemost.com/paint-colors-decrease-value-home/?partner=scripps&partner-sub=WFTX&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=scripps&utm_content=WFTX

Lucky paint is an easy & low cost change you can make to your home if you are selling it.  Gray can be a great color but just don't go with slate gray! Here are the 4 paint colors to avoid according to Zillow!

Slate gray
Off-white
Terracotta
Dark brown

4 Ways The Real Estate Market Changes After Labor Day

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/4-ways-the-real-estate-market-changes-after-labor-day/ar-AAiwbaT

The type of home and location play into the 4 following was the market can change.  If you are in a good school district many families have moved over the summer so sellers might get more motivated with price.  If you are in Naples the vacation market will start to gear up, people tend to list higher in December with the anticipation of the influx of buyers during season. 

Fall real estate can be more of a buyer’s market
Vacation-home sellers see action
Home prices, like leaves, fall
There’s no deadline for most fall home buyers

5 Home Projects to Complete Before Cold Weather Arrives

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/5-home-projects-to-complete-before-cold-weather-arrives/ar-AAiyVCu

For all you Northerners, before you migrate to Florida here are a few things to do prior to winter!

Get the heating system in order.
Prepare the fireplace.
Protect water pipes.
Stop drafts.
Flush the water heater.

In the Know: Restaurant, pharmacy to join new Publix in Estates

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/columnists/tim-aten-in-the-know/2016/09/05/know-restaurant-pharmacy-join-new-publix-estates/89722274/

Looks like in December may of these shops will be open....

Q: Please let us know if there is anything else going in by the Publix on Immokalee by Valencia Lakes. Give us hope.

— Susan C., Golden Gate Estates

A: A Chinese restaurant, a nail salon, a liquor store and a CVS pharmacy will accompany the new Publix supermarket, set to open before the end of the year in Golden Gate Estates.

Don't fall prey to banks tempting you with a low down-payment mortgage

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/dont-fall-prey-to-banks-tempting-you-with-a-low-down-payment-mortgage/ar-AAiuqeC

The low interest rates are great and the low down payments are ok as long as you don't overextend yourself to an unsustainable monthly payment. You should probably stay well below your max pre approval amount to ensure you are not spread too thin!

Meanwhile, the monthly payment for your total debt, including credit cards and student loans, should not exceed 36 percent of your gross monthly income. This figure is known as the "back-end ratio."

Some banks are willing to offer mortgages to first-time borrowers who fall into that category — and, in some cases, whose debt repayments exceed 43 percent of their gross income.

Hitler's 3-mile-long abandoned Nazi resort is transforming into a luxury getaway

http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/hitlers-3-mile-long-abandoned-nazi-resort-is-transforming-into-a-luxury-getaway/ss-AAinhxj#image=1

Wow - the story of this is amazing and it finally is being redeveloped. It is 3 hours by car from Berlin with views of the Baltic Sea. Te prices will be 4$00,000-725,000 depending on size. I hope it succeeds this time around! Here is the history:

Three years before Germany invaded Poland in 1939, Adolf Hitler ordered the construction of the world's largest tourist resort, located on a beachfront property on the island of Rügen.

The Nazis called it Prora.

Capable of holding more than 20,000 residents at a single time, Prora was meant to comfort the weary German worker who toiled away in a factory without respite.

Southwest Florida building boom is a boon to buyers

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/money/real-estate/2016/09/03/southwest-florida-building-boom-boon-buyers/89259640/

Between the election, oil prices, oversupply, & last years mild winter in the north we are seeing a lull in the market which might push prices down and allow you to get great deals or incentives on new construction.

“The new home market in Lee and Collier County has softened along with the rest of the residential market,” said Mike Timmerman, a Naples-based economic adviser to builders. “The supply has increased, and demand has slowed, which is putting pressure on pricing."

But the biggest reason for the market cool down, industry experts agree, is oversupply.

“Builders got too exuberant and built too many houses,” said David Cobb, southern regional director of the new home research group MetroStudy, at a meeting Wednesday of the Collier Building Industry Association in Naples.

Top 5 things to do this weekend in Southwest Florida

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/entertainment/events/2016/09/02/top-5-things-do-weekend-southwest-florida/89644346/

Labor Day weekend things to do:

Baseball Festival

The Perfect Game Select Baseball Festival is the main event of the weekend starting on Friday through Sunday at JetBlue Park. The game brings together the top 40 baseball players ages 14 and under in the country. The main game will be played at 7 p.m. on Sunday. The festival will be broadcasted live nationally. Why not make a come back to America’s favorite pastime? Tickets at $5 benefit the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. 239-533-5273. leegov.com/sports.

Labor Day Cookout

The fun starts with happy hour and a buffet meal of barbecue beef brisket with baked beans; lemon lime shrimp skewers with golden raisin rice; burgers and beer brats; corn on the cob; potato salad; watermelon; mixed greens; assorted cold wraps; and vanilla peach tower for dessert. The great barbecue starts at 5 p.m. on Saturday at Marco Island Yacht Club, 1400 N Collier Blvd., Marco Island. The meal cost is $25 per person. 239-394-0199 ext. 300 for reservations.

Take a walk on the art side

Artists from all over Southwest Florida have a special evening on the first Friday of every month at the River District in Downtown Fort Myers. Street artists show their work and often create some of their pieces during the event. But shops and art center also participate in the glamorous, yet very casual event. Galleries in the area often open new exhibitions during the walk. This month, the Sidney and Berne Davis art Center is featuring multimedia artist Cesar Aguilera with his “Where I’ve been and Where I am” retrospective show. The Art Walk runs from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday evening and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Thank God for Indie Mondays

The Indie Movie Mondays that kicks off the Fort Myers Film Festival, is warming up this Monday starting at 6:30 p.m. with cocktails. The show, featuring short indie films, starts at 7 p.m. the audience will help decide what films will be featured at the final programming during the annual festival held March 8 -12, 2017. Meet guest judges Jon Foerster, Julia DiTomaso and Dan Miller, with musical guest Julia DiTomaso, host Eric Raddatz and co-host Melissa Tschari DeHaven. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for seniors and students. Sbdac.com.

Have a laugh

The improv groups at the Center for Performing Arts Bonita Springs have a whole Saturday evening to make you laugh while you participate in their comedy show. The improv cafe runs from 4 to 6 p.m. at $10 adults and $6 youth. A second show starts at 8 p.m. with tickets at $12 for members; $15 for non-members, $17 at the door. The Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, has improv performances every first Saturday of the month. The best part of the “Little Shop of Improv" is that you can participate as much as you want, even on stage as a player. More Information: 239-495-8989 or visit artcenterbonita.org.

The jewel’ of East Naples: Sugden Park offers freshwater fun and family recreation

http://www.naplesnews.com/story/news/local/communities/marco-eagle/2016/09/02/jewel-east-naples-sugden-park-offers-freshwater-fun-and-family-recreation/89335676/

I have never been to Sugden Park but didn't realize how fantastic it is! Might have to check it out soon.

The massive park, wrapped around a 60-acre freshwater lake just off the East Tamiami Trail, boasts facilities available nowhere else in the area. Lake Avalon, including sailing, kayaking, water skiing instruction and demonstrations, paddle boat rentals, and one of the only freshwater beaches in Collier County.

Sugden Regional Park
4284 Avalon Drive, East Naples, just off US 41
Hours – 8 a.m. to dusk, every day
239-252-4000

Bad Habits That May Ruin a Home

http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2016/09/02/bad-habits-may-ruin-home?om_rid=AADG2i&om_mid=_BXycixB9SGh9tw&om_ntype=RMODaily

A little food for thought....some are obvious but good reminders.

Slamming the front door
Slamming the heavy front door can push it out of alignment.

Never lifting up outdoor rugs.
Outdoor rugs with rubber or vinyl backings shouldn’t be left in place. They can trap water and lead to mold and mildew.

Failing to clean the gutters.
Water could then either back up or dump along the foundation and seep into cracks and crevices.

Flushing “flushable wipes.”
The nonwoven fabric from the wipes may collect with grease and other materials and lead to a clog.

Closing vents.
You could cause “a pressure imbalance in the ducts that can make the furnace work harder or the cooling coil freeze over,”

Using too much drain cleaner.
Clog-dissolving liquids or crystals may help unclog a septic system. But too much of it may lead to less of the essential bacteria needed to break down the waste continually.

Festival on 5th!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-rotary-club-of-naples-festival-on-5th-tickets-26500314153

As many of you know, I am actively involved in The Naples Rotary Club. My clubs signature event is coming up, Festival on 5th. Right now tickets are only $75, prices will go up to $100 as the event gets closer! So get them now! Here is the what to expect:

It is a wine and food extravaganza scheduled for Saturday, November 19, 2016 on 5th Avenue South. This event will feature over 50 premium wines and 30 craft beers, along with food from many participating 5th Avenue South restaurants. The Saturday night party also includes music groups and entertainment all along the avenue.