Installing Fabric Panels, Episode 7 (of 7)

The final video in this series from Lowes Home Improvement takes a look at one more option for protecting your home's windows during a storm. Fabric panels are faster, and in many cases, easier to install than some other types of window coverings.

Hopefully this series was informative and you are able to get some practical use out of it.

Click here to read the full article

Clear Storm Panels, Episode 6 (of 7)

While using plywood to board up windows is still the most popular way to go, there is a new kid in town. Polycarbonate, often called "Clear Storm Panels" can be a better choice for many reasons. Polycarbonate is stronger than plywood and therefor can offer more protection from flying debris. Polycarbonate is a semi-clear material that lets natural light in, as opposed to plywood which just blocks all light from coming in through your windows. Installation is easy, as shown here in this video by Lowes Home Improvement.

Click here to read the full article

Generator Safety, Episode 5 (of 7)

During and after a storm, a generator can make life easier if you experience long service interruptions. When selecting and operating a portable generator, safety should be your first concern.

Lowes Home Improvement has produced this video to help you select the right generator for your specific needs.

Click here to read the full article

Chainsaw Safety, Episode 4 (of 7)

After a storm, a very common clean-up problem is branches and trees that have come down. Many people are anxious to begin clean up in order to start getting back to normal life.

While the storm may have passed, the dangers are far from over. Few people operate chainsaws regularly enough to safely handle them with confidence. But, the good people at Lowes Home Improvement have produced this video to help.

Click here to read the full article

How To Tarp Your Roof, Episode 3 (of 7)

Courtesy of Lowes Home Improvement, this video shows you how to properly tarp your roof to help prevent further damage.



Feel free to watch the video, pause it, and take notes.

Click here to read the full article

Installing Storm Shutters, Episode 2 (of 7)

Considering installing storm shutters on your windows? Let the folks from Lowes Home Improvement show you how.
This brief video produced by Lowes covers proper installation methods when doing it yourself.

Click here to read the full article

7 Part Video Series, Episode 1 (of 7)

Through permission with Lowes Home Improvement, I will be bringing you videos that they have produced. This is the first installment of what will be a 7 part series of videos designed to provide you with useful information about preparing and protecting your home during hurricane season.

This first video describes how to properly board your windows using different methods and products.

Be on the lookout for other videos I will be posting here, such as...
-How To Properly Tarp Your Roof
-Installing Storm Shutters
-Generator Safety
-And more!.

Click here to read the full article

Hurricane Season Is Approaching

Hurricane season here in Florida is just around the corner, and in light of that I wanted to provide some basic information for everyone. Below you will find the names for the storms for 2007, a 1st Aid kit checklist and some emergency contact numbers.

2007 Storm Names:
Andrea
Barry
Chantal
Dean
Erin
Felix
Gabrielle
Humberto
Ingrid
Jerry
Karen
Lorenzo
Melissa
Noel
Olga
Pablo
Rebekah
Sebastien
Tanya
Van
Wendy

Supplies List:
Extra fuses for home power
wiper blades
Generator and gas
Flashlight
Battery powered radio
First-Aid kit
Bug spray
Camera and film
Water (1 gallon per day per person for at least 3 days)
Pet food and water
Can opener (manual)
Coolers and ice (and re-usable ice packs)
Candles
Matches and lighter
Nonperishable food (enough for at least 3 days)
Bleach
Extra toiletries
AA Batteries
AAA Batteries
C Batteries
D Batteries
9 Volt batteries
Tarps and/or plastic to keep water out
Duct tape
Direct line telephone
Cash
Tools
Fire Extinguisher


Emergency Contact Numbers
Emergency - 911
HARTinfo Line - (813) 254-4278
Hillsborough County Emergency Operations Center - (813) 272-6900
Hillsborough County Health Department - (813) 307-8015
Hillsborough Red Cross - (813) 251-0921
Hillsborough County Sheriff - (813) 247-8200
Tampa Police Department - (813) 276-3200
Tampa Fire Rescue - (813) 274-7011
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue - (813) 272-6600.

Click here to read the full article

Why You Need Title Insurance

Title companies have been protecting the American dream of home ownership for more than 125 years. Real estate is an American’s largest asset and while the real estate market is going through an adjustment, the behind-the-scenes activity of title companies is more important than ever to ensure the remarkably quick and secure transfer of land, giving lenders and consumers confidence in their investment.

While that behind-the-scenes work may seem unimportant, the information gained from a thorough title search can be invaluable to a buyer or seller in a real estate transaction. There are many cases that demonstrate why it is very important to involve the title company in the early stages of a land transfer – as many as one in three title searches reveals a problem, according to the American Land Title Association (ALTA).

Boundary disputes, liens, assessments, undisclosed heirs, a mechanic’s lien, utility assessments, home improvement code violations...the list of possible problems is considerable. Southern Title looks for these problems and makes every effort to resolve them so you can move into your new home with peace of mind.

In Florida, you have the right to choose your title company if you are paying the title insurance premium (generally the seller in a transaction, or if you are refinancing, the buyer of the new mortgage). As the state’s largest independent tile agent in the state of Florida, Southern Title is committed to providing the best value to you, the consumer, and to making the transaction smooth, simple and seamless.

Technology plays a major role in the real estate transaction and over the past few years, Southern Title has invested in the resources necessary to speed up search time, improve the accuracy of closing and eventually to deliver a “paperless” closing. All documents related to the transaction can be viewed online using SureClose, the premier online transaction management system, allowing for greater communication, improved accuracy and peace of mind on closing day.

This "Guest Author" installment was contributed by:

Kathy Brogli, Southern Title
1052 Bloomingdale Avenue
Valrico, FL 33594
(Upstairs in Plaza Bella)
813-681-9772
www.stitle.com

Call them today for a quote on your next real estate purchase, sale or refinance.

Click here to read the full article

April Market Report

Here is the local Market Report for April, 2007. Now that I have caught all of you up to date, from now on I will be posting these reports each month. Look for them during the first week of each month.
***Disclaimer***
The information I am posting is from a variety of resources and ultimately not all homes can possibly be accounted for due to public records errors, and the fact that there is no accurate comprehensive database for FSBO's (For Sale By Owner). Prices are rounded off for convenience and this data is for informational purposes only.

**Subscribe to my Blog to get notices of updated information and new articles! Just enter your e-mail address in the box below the For Sale By Andy logo!

APRIL

Brandon
# Sold 47
Avg SP $221,000
Med SP $202,000
Avg DOM 100
Med DOM 99

Valrico
# Sold 65
Avg SP $287,000
Med SP $263,000
Avg DOM 97
Med DOM 76

Seffner
# Sold 20
Avg SP $195,000
Med SP $202,000
Avg DOM 87
Med DOM 43

Riverview
# Sold 108
Avg SP $418,000
Med SP $219,000
Avg DOM 98
Med DOM 88

Tampa
# Sold 576
Avg SP $279,000
Med SP $213,000
Avg DOM 112
Med DOM 94

Lithia
# Sold 37
Avg SP $384,000
Med SP $383,000
Avg DOM 116
Med DOM 99

Legend:
# Sold: Number of homes that sold during that month.
Avg SP: Average sold price of the homes sold.
Med SP: Median sold price of the homes sold.
Avg DOM: Average # of days those homes were active on the market.
Med DOM: Median # of days those homes were active on the market.

Click here to read the full article

March Market Report

***Disclaimer***
The information I am posting is from a variety of resources and ultimately not all homes can possibly be accounted for due to public records errors, and the fact that there is no accurate comprehensive database for FSBO's (For Sale By Owner). Prices are rounded off for convenience and this data is for informational purposes only.

Here is the information I have compiled for March, 2007:

Brandon
# Sold 79
Avg SP $233,000
Med SP $206,000
Avg DOM 85
Med DOM 62

Valrico
# Sold 59
Avg SP $266,000
Med SP $242,000
Avg DOM 90
Med DOM 65

Seffner
# Sold 20
Avg SP $234,000
Med SP $219,000
Avg DOM 79
Med DOM 70

Riverview
# Sold 108
Avg SP $241,000
Med SP $235,000
Avg DOM 106
Med DOM 87

Tampa
# Sold 667
Avg SP $278,000
Med SP $220,000
Avg DOM 102
Med DOM 82

Lithia
# Sold 32
Avg SP $375,000
Med SP $339,000
Avg DOM 100
Med DOM 96

Legend:
# Sold: Number of homes that sold during that month.
Avg SP: Average sold price of the homes sold.
Med SP: Median sold price of the homes sold.
Avg DOM: Average # of days those homes were active on the market.
Med DOM: Median # of days those homes were active on the market.

**Subscribe to my Blog to get notices of updated information and new articles! Just enter your e-mail address in the box below the For Sale By Andy logo!

Click here to read the full article

February Market Report

Below is the data I have compiled for February, 2007:

Brandon
# Sold 53
Avg SP $217,000
Med SP $210,000
Avg DOM 76
Med DOM 69

Valrico
# Sold 60
Avg SP $238,000
Med SP $230,000
Avg DOM 106
Med DOM 92

Seffner
# Sold 24
Avg SP $222,000
Med SP $212,000
Avg DOM 74
Med DOM 66

Riverview
# Sold 110
Avg SP $238,000
Med SP $232,000
Avg DOM 89
Med DOM 74

Tampa
# Sold 560
Avg SP $278,000
Med SP $207,000
Avg DOM 96
Med DOM 79

Lithia
# Sold 19
Avg SP $472,000
Med SP $355,000
Avg DOM 113
Med DOM 109

Legend:
# Sold: Number of homes that sold during that month.
Avg SP: Average sold price of the homes sold.
Med SP: Median sold price of the homes sold.
Avg DOM: Average # of days those homes were active on the market.
Med DOM: Median # of days those homes were active on the market.

***Disclaimer***
The information I am posting is from a variety of resources and ultimately not all homes can possibly be accounted for due to public records errors, and the fact that there is no accurate comprehensive database for FSBO's (For Sale By Owner). Prices are rounded off for convenience and this data is for informational purposes only.

**Subscribe to my Blog to get notices of updated information and new articles! Just enter your e-mail address in the box below the For Sale By Andy logo!

Click here to read the full article

January Market Report

Below is the sales data I have compiled for January, 2007:

Brandon
# Sold: 51
Avg SP: $211,000
Med SP: $200,000
Avg DOM: 68
Med DOM: 57

Valrico
# Sold: 61
Avg SP: $238,000
Med SP: $221,000
Avg DOM: 81
Med DOM: 80

Seffner
# Sold: 22
Avg SP: $229,000
Med SP: $195,000
Avg DOM: 70
Med DOM: 72

Riverview
# Sold: 107
Avg SP: $236,000
Med SP: $221,000
Avg DOM: 86
Med DOM: 78

Tampa
# Sold: 528
Avg SP: $275,000
Med SP: $215,000
Avg DOM: 95
Med DOM: 77

Lithia
# Sold: 20
Avg SP: $352,000
Med SP: $264,000
Avg DOM: 90
Med DOM: 86

Legend:
# Sold is the number of homes that sold during that month.
Avg SP is the average sold price of the homes sold.
Med SP is the median sold price of the homes sold.
Avg DOM is the average number of days those homes were active on the market.
Med DOM is the median number of days those homes were active on the market.


***Disclaimer***
The information I am posting is from a variety of resources and ultimately not all homes can possibly be accounted for due to public records errors, and the fact that there is no accurate comprehensive database for FSBO's (For Sale By Owner). Prices are rounded off for convenience and this data is for informational purposes only.

**Subscribe to my Blog to get notices of updated information and new articles! Just enter your e-mail address in the box below the For Sale By Andy logo!

Click here to read the full article

East Hillsborough Market Report

In an attempt to provide you with an eye on the real estate market, I will begin posting monthly home sales information for Tampa, Brandon, Valrico, Seffner, Riverview and Lithia. However, in order to bring everyone up to speed, over the next few days I will be posting the sales information for these areas for January, February, March and April.

***Disclaimer***
The information I will be posting is from a variety of resources and ultimately not all homes can possibly be accounted for due to public records errors, and the fact that there is no accurate comprehensive database for FSBO's (For Sale By Owner). Prices are rounded off for convenience and this data is for informational purposes only.

**Subscribe to my Blog to get notices of updated information and new articles! Just enter your e-mail address in the box below the For Sale By Andy logo!

Click here to read the full article

Termite Inspections

When buying or selling a home, most offers require an inspection by a licensed exterminator to determine if the house has termites or other wood destroying insects. The inspector will look for two things in deciding whether or not to pass a house...an active infestation, and evidence of a past infestation.

If your house does not pass the termite inspection, get a list of qualified exterminators from your Realtor®. Find out the treatment options they offer and their charges for the service.
Exterminators are usually quite competitive. If your home was treated for a past infestation, the company which performed the extermination may be willing to re-certify your home without a second treatment. Arrange for the termite inspection as early as possible, so you will have time to determine the best way to get rid of them, if they are found.

One company that I have used quite frequently with exceptional results is Haskell Termite & Pest Control, Inc. Besides the Tampa Bay area, they also service Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties. As part of a real estate transaction, their inspections typically run about $75. However, if you are not selling your home and would like to have peace of mind, they will come out and provide a FREE inspection. Click here to check out their website, then give them a call to get your FREE termite inspection.

Click here to read the full article

New Florida Property Tax Plan

Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio has introduced a new property tax reform proposal, basing a type of Homestead Exemption on a home’s value. This plan is a step in a different direction from his preferred plan of eliminating property taxes and adding a higher state sales tax.

Rubio states that this new concept still meets the three House goals of reducing local government taxes and spending; providing substantial immediate tax relief to homeowners; and allowing voters to have their say in meaningful and comprehensive tax reform. While the exact numbers of the plan may still be up for negotiations, essentially it would work like this:

Homes with a market value up to $300,000:
Properties would be taxed on 20% of their market value.
Example: Value: $250,000 x 20% = $50,000.
Homeowner would pay property taxes on the $50,000.

Homes with a market value over $300,000 but less than $1,000,000:
Properties would be taxed on 20% of their market value for the 1st $300,000 and then 30% of the balance over $300,000.
Example: Value: $500,000. $300,000 x 20% = $60,000. $200,000 x 30% = $60,000. Homeowner would pay property taxes on $120,000 ($60,000 for part 1, $60,000 for part 2).

Homes with a market value over $1,000,000:
Properties would be taxed on 20% of their market value for the 1st $300,000; then 30% of the value between $300,000 and $1,000,000 ($700,000); and then 70% of the remaining value over $1,000,000.
Example: Value: $2,000,000. $300,000 x 20% = $60,000. $700,000 x 30% = $210,000. $1,000,000 x 70% = $700,000.
Homeowner would pay property taxes on the $970,000 ($60,000 for part 1, $210,000 for part 2, and $700,000 for part 3).

With this plan, the new tax amount ($50,000 in example 1 for instance) would then be multiplied by the city or county millage rate to figure your annual tax. It was unclear whether or not millage rates would be adjsted in light of the proposal, if passed.

Bottom line? The average homeowner with a homestead exemption would see their property taxes cut in half, maybe more. However, besides the exact percentages to be hammered out, the House and Senate would still have to look at the drop in revenue to the local governments and if a sales tax increase would still be needed.

Click here to read the full article

Great New Price!

I've just adjusted the price on this simply amazing 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in sunny Valrico, Florida. Your next home features spacious rooms with tasteful colors and an open floor plan. It boasts an oversized screened lanai with vaulted ceilings and a large backyard, perfect for entertaining. Low association fees and community pool make this affordable and enjoyable. All the conveniences are close by with Home Depot, Super Wal-Mart, etc, just down the street. Ceramic tile in the wet areas, water softener, indoor laundry area, sprinkler system, flat top range, upgraded refrigerator and all other appliances stay with the home. All this and more for only $219,900!

E-mail me for details at: info@ForSaleByAndy.com.

Watch the Virtual Tour at the bottom of this page, or simply click here!

Click here to read the full article

Florida’s Free Hurricane Inspections Return

Florida’s free hurricane inspection program is back. HB 7057, passed during the last legislative session, made adjustments to the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program. The MSFH program allows Florida homeowners to get a free wind inspection. The purpose for the inspection is to look for ways a home came be fortified for a hurricane. If the inspection uncovers items that could be improved, the state will match funds, within limits, for every dollar the homeowner spends. Improvements that the program will reimburse for include hurricane shutters, reinforced garage doors and roof enhancements.

More than 50,000 Florida homeowners are already on the waiting list and they should expect to be served by the end of the summer. You can apply for this by calling the MSFH helpline at 866-513-6734, or on the web at: http://www.mysafefloridahome.com/. Keep in mind though, that the waiting list will be handled first, and anyone applying for the first time should not expect to receive a free wind inspection before August 2007.

For more information on this program, again, go to: http://www.mysafefloridahome.com/.

Click here to read the full article

New Home Specials

The following are brand new inventory homes by US HOME, with up to 6% closing costs paid by the builder. Remember, anyone who buys a US HOME through me and mentions that they saw the virtual tours, will receive an additional $500 cash back after closing.

FLOOR PLAN
ANDOVER 4 Bed, 2 Bath, 3 Car 1721sf $230,900
HARRINGTON 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car 2040sf $229,900 (Plus den)
MARSIELLES 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath, 2 Car 2051sf $219,900
RICHMOND GRAND 5 Bed, 2.5 Bath 2 Car 2183sf $225,900 (Plus loft)
STONEWOOD 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath, 2 Car 2369sf $250,900
ARMADA GRAND 5 Bed, 3 Bath, 2 Car 2725sf $270,900 (Plus loft)

IN RIVERVIEW
MARSIELLE 4 Bed, 2.5 Bath, 2 Car 2051sf $228,900
STONEWOOD 4 Bed. 2.5 Bath, 2 Car 2369sf $248.900
BRIGHTON 5 Bed, 4 Bath, 3 Car 3031sf $322,900 (Plus Bonus rm)
ARMADA GRANDE 5 Bed, 3 Bath, 2 Car 2725sf $283,900 (Plus loft)
WILLIMASBURG 6 Bed, 3 Bath, 2 Car 2994sf $311,900

IN RUSKIN
WALDEN GRANDE 4 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car 1554sf $195,900
ANDOVER 4 Bed 2 Bath, 3 Car 1721sf $195,900
HARRINGTON 3 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car 2041sf $211,900 (Plus den)

TOWNHOMES IN RIVERVIEW NO CDD’S
ST CROIX 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath 1353sf $145,900
SIESTA KEY 2 Bed, Den, 2.5 Bath 1531sf $146,900 (Plus den)
MARTINIQUE 2 Bed , Den, 2.5 Bath 1531sf $146,900 (Plus den)

TOWNHOMES IN BRANDON NO CDD’S
CALIS 3 Bed, 3.5 Bath, 1 Car 1844sf $205,900
AMSTERDAM 2 Bed, 3.5 Bath, 2 Car $214,900 (Plus Bonus rm)
ENFIELD 4 Bed, 4 Bath, 1 Car 1956sf $214,900
BRUSSELS 3 Bed, 3.5 Bath, 1 Car 2039sf $220,900

Click here to read the full article

Florida Property Tax Reform

By now you’ve no doubt learned that the Legislature suspended negotiations on Save Our Homes portability, rollbacks and other property tax reform proposals until next month when lawmakers return to Tallahassee for a 10-day special session. Several words come to mind.
Disappointing? Yes. Derailed? No.

“We’re going home to continue to work on it,” said House Speaker Marco Rubio (R-Miami). “We would not call dates (for a special session)...unless we were confident that we would come up with something that would not just pass but work. But drafting something to go on the ballot (can't be rushed).''

House and Senate leaders called the special session Wednesday afternoon when it became clear that a deal couldn’t be worked out in the remaining 48 hours of the regular session. "The issue is too important to our state and to our taxpayers for us to give them a product they would not be proud of," said Senate President Ken Pruitt (R-Port St. Lucie) . "We have laid a great foundation."

Pruitt noted that both sides have already agreed on two FAR-supported tax relief measures—$25,000 exemption on personal intangible property for small businesses and some form of Save Our Homes portability. Details of the portability discussions were not released.

30 days to talk the talk
A one-month waiting period leading to a special session of the Florida Legislature gives Realtors® an opportunity to meet their lawmakers locally and push for substantial property tax relief. It also gives lawmakers time to consider the focus exclusively on the issue.
“It is my hope that a special legislative session devoted entirely to this issue will be able to deliver even more comprehensive tax reform than what could be negotiated in the waning hours of the regular session,” says FAR President Nancy Riley. “The Legislature will be able to roll back rates immediately and, if we remain strong, we will get our special election this year for portability and other constitutional issues that must be ratified by the voters.”

Special session at a glance: When: June 12-22
Original House plan:
Rollback taxes to 2001 levels; replace property taxes with a 2.5 percent state sales tax increase (constitutional amendment. Projected savings: $50 billion over five years.

Original Senate plan:
Rollback taxes to 2006 levels; allow for Save Our Homes portability; $25,000 exemption on intangible property; double the homestead exemption for first-time buyers. Projected saving: $14 billion.

What sources say has been agreed to so far:
Cut property taxes by about $20-25 billion over five years; no sales tax increase; some form of Save Our Homes portability.

© 2007 FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ®

Click here to read the full article

Different Markets

If you are going to sell your current home, the market conditions will play a crucial role in determining the asking price. Market conditions change constantly, so it is important that you get solid advice from a professional who is familiar with your specific area.

A good Realtor® will know how houses in your area are selling, as well as the other factors that may influence the sale.

Nearby commercial development, which may create congestion and noise, may also mean a greater demand for housing from people who will be working in the new office buildings. A new route that cuts commuting time could make your home more valuable and highways close by can be an issue with the price. The economic conditions have a strong impact on the real estate market.

Your Realtor® can help you consider all of the issues and assist you in setting a fair price for your home.

Click here to read the full article

Beware of Listing Price

So you contacted a Realtor® to list your home, and the agent indicates that you might get more for your home than comparable homes on the market, or more than other agents have told you. After all, it just takes finding one person who is willing to pay your price, right?

Unfortunately some Realtors® approach a listing appointment as if they are bidding for your home. In any market, sellers can often start out with an unrealistic opinion of their home's value, and there is often a strong temptation to go with a person who says what you want to hear. A good Realtor® will back up their opinion of your home's market value with hard data. The agent should give you information about homes that are currently on the market, and recent selling prices of similar properties. The most heroic marketing efforts won't work on a property that is overpriced.

Even if you find a buyer who is willing to pay more than your home is worth, the sale could fall apart when the appraisal comes in lower than the agreed-upon price. Listen to everything, but be careful! Not only is this a dangerous way to choose your Realtor®, but it is a direct violation of the National Association of Realtors® Code of Ethics:

Duties to Clients and Customers,
Article 1 Standard of Practice 1-3,
REALTORS®, in attempting to secure a listing, shall not deliberately mislead the owner as to market value.

Click here to read the full article

7 Countries, 9 Languages

The For Sale By Andy Blog is growing, and is now being read in 6 other countries outside the United States. In light of that, I've added a language translation tool (courtesy of Babblefish) so now a simple 'click' converts my blog from English to 8 other available languages (German, Spanish, French, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian and Portuguese)! I decided to add this feature due to a recent increase in the number of my readers from outside the United States (China, France, Germany, Bolivia, etc.). To try out the new translation tool, simply look in the upper right corner, then click on a flag to view my blog in a different language. Don't worry, it's not permanent and it won't change any preferences on your computer!

Click here to read the full article

Low Ball Offers

In each real estate market, there are buyers who make offers that are far from the current market value. How should you react if your Realtor® brings you one of these "low balls"?

If your home is priced well in a sellers' market, you can reject the buyer's offer and be pretty confident that a better one will come soon. However, in a buyers' market you may not have that luxury. Try to get a handle on the buyer's overall strategy, and ask your Realtor® for advice. Do they really want your house or will they move on to another property/house if you make a counter offer? Can they afford to pay a higher price (this is not always difficult to find out)? Are there ways to close the gap with a small owner carry-back, or with terms that will increase your bottom line? It may be necessary to take a close-hard look at your asking price. If your price is on the high end, the offer may not be that unreasonable. I would caution you against rejecting a low offer until you have explored all the options.

Everyone's situation is different, and only you truly know what you can afford to do. Speak openly and candidly with your Realtor® about your options.

Click here to read the full article

Capital Gains Tax Simplified

The Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997 signed on August 5, 1997, allows married taxpayers to exclude from capital gains taxes up to $500,000 in profits from selling a home (singles could exclude $250,000). This exclusion replaces both the one-time $125,000 tax exclusion available for taxpayers over age 55 and the deferral of capital gains when purchasing a more expensive home. This change exempts over 99 percent of homes sales from capital gains taxes and dramatically simplifies taxes and record-keeping for over 60 million homeowners. Taxpayers can use this exclusion every two years.

The new law allows capital gain exclusions whether you "buy up" to a more expensive home or "buy down" to a less expensive one.

Homeowners can now consider several new options. Many people find themselves at an empty-nester stage (no children at home) in a four or five bedroom home with a large equity. For many of these people, their home has been their major investment and this new law will allow them to unlock the equity. They may help their children buy a first home, purchase that vacation dream-home or make other investments for retirement.

Consult your tax advisor for your particular circumstance.

Click here to read the full article

Pet Odors

Be careful of odors in your home. If your family room smells stale or your cat or dog has left a distinctive odor in the hallway, the important thing is to remove the root cause of the odor rather than to merely treat the symptoms. Smells have a powerful effect on the way people react to a house, and no amount of room freshener or vanilla on the light bulbs can mask a serious odor problem. In fact, such remedies may draw attention to the problem. Homes with an odor problem can often sit on the market for months or sell for thousands of dollars less than comparable homes in the neighborhood.
Your dog or cat can pose a problem when your property is listed for sale. Even if prospective buyers have pets of their own that smell just like yours, they may be repelled by animal odors. If you have a pet odor problem, you should remove the offending furniture or carpets or hire a professional to clean them. Check the cat box frequently and keep the litter fresh. Some people have allergies or irrational fears of certain animals, so it is a good idea to put dogs or cats outside or confine them to one area when your house is being shown. It is hard for buyers to appreciate your home through puffy, watery eyes or inbetween sneezes!
Even if the house is exactly what they want, your chances of selling it are less if the buyers are afraid of being eaten by Fido. If you think that your home may have an odor problem, talk candidly with your Realtor. Your agent should be able to offer some constructive suggestions, and perhaps refer you to a professional who can help banish stubborn odors from your home.

Click here to read the full article

Foreclosure Revisited

Not to say, "You heard it here first", but......you heard it here first. This past Wednesday, April 18th, 2007 I made a point of warning you about foreclosures, and the fact that times like these bring unscrupulous types out from under every rock ("Don't Lose Your Home To Foreclosure").

Well, in this morning's Sunday Tampa Tribune, on the front page of the business section is an article warning people to be cautious of those seeking payment to "assist" homeowners in preventing foreclosure. Click here to read the Tampa Tribune's article on this topic.

The best way to avoid foreclosure is to make full, timely payments. Obviously this is becoming more difficult to an increasing number of people though. My advice...if you believe you are going to begin having trouble staying current on your payments, talk to your lender early. Ask them for options. Banks do not want to take your home back, especially in this market. Again, if selling your home becomes the best solution for you, ask me questions about how we can work together to get you out of a bad situation.

Coming up this week in the For Sale By Andy Blog:
-Capital gains
-House odors
-Lowball offers
-Market trends...and more!

Have a topic YOU want addressed? E-mail me your idea and your question could be featured here!

Click here to read the full article

House Approves Two Tax-Cut Bills

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – April 19, 2007 – The state House of Representatives voted unanimously Wednesday to roll back property taxes to 2001 levels, while also passing, along party lines, a second plan to rewrite Florida’s tax code and give voters the option of eliminating property taxes on their homes by raising the sales tax.
House Democrats said they support the rollback bill because it sends the message they support tax cuts, but warned that they want it revised to have a less harsh impact on local government.
The second plan, advocated aggressively by House Speaker Marco Rubio, won a divided vote of 78-40, with only two Democrats, Reps. Luis Garcia and Ed Bullard, both of Miami, voting with Republicans. Two Republicans, Reps. Gayle Harrell of Stuart and Andy Gardiner of Orlando, voted against it. None explained their votes.
The measures are the first step to a resolution on the top issue of the legislative session: lowering property taxes across the state. Neither approach is expected to be accepted by the Senate but will serve as the starting point in the debate to begin next week when a joint committee hammers out the differences.
Under the House plan that passed on a partisan vote, voters would be asked in November 2008 to approve a constitutional amendment to lower property taxes across the state by $4.4 billion by 2009. Local governments then would have to roll back taxes and cut their budgets.
If voters approve the constitutional amendment, it would immediately strip away all taxes that pay for schools and automatically raise the statewide sales tax by 1 cent. After that, counties would have the option to eliminate all property taxes on homesteaded property and replace the lost income with a local sales tax of up to 1.5 cents more.
Republicans called the plan bold, innovative and the “largest tax cut in the history of Florida.” They promised that it would have wide-ranging benefits not just to homeowners but to businesses and renters, who would also see their tax bills drop while homeowners see the biggest declines.
“This isn’t to protect government, this is to protect the taxpayer,” said Rep. Ray Sanson, a Destin Republican.
Democrats argued that the proposal will have far-reaching negative consequences. Renters and businesses would see little relief, while homeowners see the greatest benefit. Low- and middle-income homeowners would shoulder the greatest share of the sales-tax increase while seeing the least benefit. And the elimination of the property tax on homes, they said, would result in a more apathetic citizenry and a vulnerable state financial system that could jeopardize the state’s bond rating.
“We support the tax cuts. We support the rollback,” said Rep. Dan Gelber, the House Democratic leader from Miami Beach. But the other proposal falls short, he said, because “you’ll be sending everybody to the polls to vote for a sales tax increase that only benefits some people.”

Copyright © 2007 The Miami Herald, Mary Ellen Klas. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Business News.
© Copyright 2007 Florida Association of Realtors®

Click here to read the full article

Sale Pending

Another one of my listings in Brandon, FL has just accepted an offer and is now under contract. While this home may be gone, please keep in mind that I do have other homes available (example). So if someone you know is looking for a home, please pass this along.

Click here to read the full article

Don't Lose Your Home To Foreclosure!!!

The number of homeowners in Florida who are falling behind on their monthly house payments is increasing. This has analysts and economists fearing that a growing number of those owners will lose their homes to foreclosure this year and next. Analysts note that late home loan payments in Broward and Palm Beach counties alone increased in each of the first three months of 2007.

With property taxes and insurance being hot topics lately, and the fact that the solutions are not yet final, it is easy to see why some people may be having a harder time keeping their home. Unfortunately, foreclosures and "short sales" have a tendency to bring out a flood of people looking to make a quick buck on someone's home. Don't let this happen to you. If you or someone you know are having trouble making payments on your (or their) home, talk to me. I am not a mortgage lender or counselor, but I will talk to you about your specific situation and what the realistic options are. If selling your home turns out to be your best solution, obviously I'll discuss helping you in that capacity, if that's what you choose. If refinancing your mortgage ends up being right for you, I will help you find a lender to assist you with that...and no, I do not receive any fees or referral money for doing so. I am doing this, with no obligation or pressure, because I don't want to see anyone I know lose their home to foreclosure.

For those of you who don't know me as well, I can put you in touch with a reference. After sitting down with this one particular homeowner, it became clear that selling their home at that time would not be in their best interest. They can talk to you about whether they felt pressured to list their home with me or not.

Click here to e-mail me your questions, or call my personal line at 813-732-8352.

Click here to read the full article

Huge Discounts On Inventory Homes

US HOME is offering huge discounts on some of their inventory homes. They have brand new communities in Riverview, Ruskin, and Brandon FL. Affordable brand new homes with all upgrades included! Some communities with no CDD’S!

EXAMPLES:
SEDONA 3 BED, 2 BATH, 2 CAR 1500 square feet $182,900
WALDEN GRANDE 4 BED, 2 BATH, 2 CAR 1554 square feet $195,900
MARSIELLES 4 BED, 2.5 BATH 2 CAR 2051 square feet $230,000
RICHMAND GRANDE 5 BED + LOFT 2.5 BATH 2 CAR 2183 square feet $224,900
ANDOVER 4 BED 2 BATH 3 CAR 1721 square feet $209,900
HARRINGTON 3 BED + DEN 2 BATH 2 CAR 2041 square feet $220,900
STONEWOOD 4 BED 2.5 BATH 2 CAR 2369 square feet $224,900
ARMADA GRANDE 5 BED + LOFT 3 BATH 2 CAR 2725 square feet $259,900
BRIGHTON II 4 BED+DEN/STUDIO, 3BATH, 2CAR 3185 square feet $320,900
WILLIAMSBURG 6 Bed, 3 Bath, 2 Car 2994 square feet $305,900
SIESTA KEY Townhome 2 BED + DEN/STUDY 2.5 BATH 1531 square feet $153,900
CALIS Townhome 3BED 3.5 BATH, 1 CAR 1844 square feet $204,900

Luxury upgrades included with the price.
• Granite kitchen counter tops• Stainless steel GE Kitchen appliances• 42 inch upper kitchen cabinets with crown molding• 18 by 18 tile in wet areas• Blind package• Decorative tile with listellos in master bath• Cultured marble counter tops in master bath• Sprinkler system• Pre-wired for security system• Pest tube defense

**Prices subject to change at any time**

Remember, through an exclusive arrangement with US Home, I have launched virtual tours of some of US Home’s models available throughout Hillsborough County and beyond. Currently, I have virtual tours on-line for two of the many floor plans. Click on Harrington and Marseilles to see the tours. In light of this agreement with US Home, anyone who buys a US Home through me and mentions this code: CCVT, or that they saw the virtual tours, will receive $500 cash back after closing, in addition to all incentives applied by the builder.

Click here to read the full article

Tips for Buying a Vacation Condo

Buying a vacation condo is of course a great choice for those who are looking to enjoy their summers away from the hassle of living at home, but that is not all it is good for. Buying a vacation condo is also a great investment if done right, and that is why you have more than your heart to follow when making this choice.

1. Set a budget and stick to it. This sounds obvious, but don't let emotion over-ride your budget. An avoidable financial letdown could ruin the experience.

2. Consider where you would like to purchase a vacation condo. If you plan on using it for more than just an investment then you should definitely visit the area and see if it is suitable for you.

3. Start browsing the internet and magazines to find out what properties are available. While doing this remember your budget at all times. If you feel a house is going to need further development then remember this is a cost as well, and account for it.

4. Check the rental prices that you could be getting for your condo by checking what others are charging near where you plan to buy.

5. If you plan on selling another property to finance this one, then make sure that the other is sold before you buy. You do not want to end up paying for both properties at the same time.

6. Ensure that you are going to be able to make best use of the condo before you buy. This means not only ensuring that you will be able to take time off work to enjoy it to its full potential, it also means ensuring that you will be able rent it out if this is part of your plans.

If you would like to buy a vacation condo, and are ready to start, simply tell me what you are looking for and where. If I do not service the area you are interested in, I will put you in touch with a professional who does. There is no charge for my assistance in helping you purchase your vacation condo.

Click here to read the full article

Home Buyers: How to Avoid Costly Mistakes!

There are some simple steps that homebuyers often miss when looking for their new home. Taking the time to consider these steps can save you thousands of dollars, but more importantly, can smooth the process of buying a new home, saving time and money, as well as alleviating stressful situations in advance.
1. Begin by being up front and honest with your REALTOR® and lender about your credit history. Your credit, whether good or bad, affects everything from your down payment to your interest rates. Your REALTOR® or a professional mortgage consultant can often advise you as to how you can get credit problems cleared up or completely eliminated from your credit report before you apply for financing or make an offer on a new home.
2. Getting pre-qualified for a loan by a professional lender before you begin your search for a new home will allow you to know in advance exactly what kind, and how much, mortgage you can afford. This makes it possible for you to make an offer on your new home with confidence that enough funding is available.
3. If the seller does not offer a home warranty on the house you want, ask your REALTOR® to make it a part of the written offer that you make. A home warranty can save you thousands of dollars in repairs, and can often be obtained for a very nominal annual fee. A standard warranty covers the electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems as well as major home appliances.
4. Ask your REALTOR® for a market analysis of the home, in comparison to similar homes in the neighborhood or throughout the city, before you make an offer. A home is not just a place where you live - it is also an investment. Take the time to research several homes before you make an offer so you know exactly what is on the market. Be certain you are making a wise investment.
5. Make your offer contingent upon a home inspection and ask the seller to make the required repairs. Hire a professional to inspect every aspect of the home thoroughly. This can save you thousands of dollars in costly repairs and many headaches in the future. A good inspection can also allow you to negotiate for any repairs prior to closing. If the seller is not willing to make the necessary repairs, remind them that the lender will also require the home to be in good condition before they make a loan for the purchase.
6. Take into account your present homeowner or renter status. If you already own a home and must sell it before you buy a new one, it is best to get a REALTOR® to do a complete market analysis on your present home. This allows you to know how much you can sell your current home for before you make an offer on a new one. If you are leasing or renting, the lease's expiration date will give you a timetable for your new purchase. Review this with your REALTOR® well in advance of when you want to move.
7. Choose your agent wisely. Working with a full-time professional REALTOR® is a must. Ask questions of your agent. Find out how knowledgeable he or she is about houses currently for sale in your price range and also of houses that have recently sold. Can your agent recommend a good lender that has the reputation of excellent customer service and low rates? Does your agent ask questions of you to have a full understanding of what you are looking for and to help you get the most home for the money?

Click here to read the full article