Katie Creek

OCT. HUDSON BEACH CONTINUES IT'S CLIMB ON THE WATERFRONT WITH CASH AS KING!

Katie Creek — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:32:00 GMT

AS WATERFRONT PROPERTY BEGINS TO CLIMB CASH IS KING!

Area Sales almost doubled last month with 7 sales in the month of October showing me that Waterfront property may be turning the corner. Sea Ranch was the only subdivision that didn’t have a sale in the month of October. Hudson Beach took over the lead with 3 area sales. 2 of these were all cash sales and out of the 5 subdivisions that I monitor, there was only 1 loan taken out for the 7 sales we had.

Sea Pines had 1 sale this month and the largest at $230,000. Currently they also have the highest listed price home at $859,000. with the lowest being in Sea Ranch at $75,300.

Last month we were looking at a total of 51 listed properties in these subdivisions. Currently there are 74. A gain of 23 properties on the market since last month!

Still time to purchase that waterfront home or condo at a reasonable price!! Remember interest rates are still running around 4% (mol) a 15 year mortgage may even be less than 4%.

Remember, starting in January the way they check your credit score is going to be changing. They are going to be looking at things like your mobile phone bill, utility bill, child support payments etc. This will definitely have an effect on purchasing a home. If you’re planning to purchase please remember to keep current on your payments as this will now have a direct effect on your credit score.

With that being said, if you’re thinking of purchasing a waterfront property, remember I work, live and sell in this area. I would love to help you find that perfect water front home. Maybe with a dock and a pool? But, if you’re thinking of selling, call me!

We’ll go over a personalized CMA of your home and I’ll give you my best advice as a Realtor in this area, as an ASP (Accredited Staging Professional) and of course as a Consultant. Ask me what you can do for you to get the best Return on your investment!

I look forward to meeting you soon.
And Thank YOU for allowing me into your home!

Katie Creek
727-415-4669

AS OF 11/1/2011

CURRENTLY IN LEISURE BEACH THERE ARE:
7 ACTIVE LISTINGS
2 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $90,000.TO $379,000.

CURRENTLY IN HUDSON BEACH THERE ARE:
20 ACTIVE
3 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
3 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $134,000. TO $499,999.

CURRENTLY IN SEA RANCH THERE ARE:
16 ACTIVE LISTINGS
1 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
0 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $75,300.TO $599,000.

CURRENTLY IN SEA PINES THERE ARE:
11 ACTIVE LISTINGS
2 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $120,000. TO $859,000.

CURRENTLY IN GULF ISLAND AND TENNIS CLUB THERE ARE:
20 ACTIVE LISTINGS
3 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
2 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $99,900.TO $264,999

WATERFRONT IN HUDSON BEACH AREA STARTS TO CLIMB AGAIN!

Katie Creek — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 13:56:00 GMT

NEIGHBORHOOD SPECIALIST OF:

SEA PINES, HUDSON BEACH, LEISURE BEACH AND SEA RANCH
NOW FEATUREING GULF ISLAND AND TENNIS CLUB!
(see property stats below)

PROPERTY UPDATES FROM
September 1, to, October 1, 2011

LIVING BREATHING AND LOVING WATERFRONT PROPERTY

AS OF 10/1/2011

WATERFRONT PROPERTY AGAIN PICS UP!!! Wow, we finally had 4 sales in the month of September showing me that Waterfront property may finally be getting noticed again. This past month we had sales in Sea Ranch which lead the way with 2 sales. One for $84,000. bought on a conventional loan and another all cash sale which was sold at $223,000. This means that Leisure Beach lost its lead last month with only one sale at $126,000 an all cash transaction. But, Hudson Beach had the largest sale of $290,000. with another conventional loan.

With that being said, again in September Sea Pines didn’t have any sales. The only one of the 4 sub-divisions that didn’t however, they do have 3 pending or active with contract sales.

At last writing there were 40 properties listed on the MLS that were For Sale! Now we are looking at a total of 51 in our area. This is an increase of 11 homes since last month.

The highest asking price is still $499,999. with the lowest price still at $75,300. So this did not change at all this past month. Still time to purchase that waterfront home at a reasonable price!! Remember interest is still low with rates as low as 4.01 % this past month!

I look forward to meeting you soon.

And Thank YOU for allowing me into your home!

Katie Creek
727-415-4669

AS OF 10/1/2011

CURRENTLY IN LEISURE BEACH THERE ARE:
8 ACTIVE LISTINGS
1 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $90,000.TO $172,500.

UP FROM LAST MONTH’S $146,000. FROM THE PREVIOUS MONTH
FOR HIGHEST LISTED

CURRENTLY IN HUDSON BEACH THERE ARE:
20 ACTIVE
5 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $88,000. TO $499,999.
UP $200,000.+ FROM THE PREVIOUS MONTH
FOR HIGHEST LISTED

CURRENTLY IN SEA RANCH THERE ARE:
17 ACTIVE LISTINGS
1 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
2 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $75,300.TO $549,000.
UP OVER $100,000 FROM PREVIOUS MONTH
FOR HIGHEST LISTED

CURRENTLY IN SEA PINES THERE ARE:
8 ACTIVE LISTINGS
3 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
0 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $89,500. TO $340,000.
DOWN FROM LAST MONTHS LISTING

NOW FEATURING STATS FROM:
GULF ISLAND BEACH AND TENNIS CLUB

As many of you know we have a condo complex here in Hudson Beach called Gulf Island Beach and Tennis Club. This was started years ago and the concept behind this was to teach tennis to upcoming pros.

Although this didn’t quite work out as expected, it did leave us with an extremely nice water front condo actually directly overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Many of these units were redone in the late 90’s and each has a unique view of the Gulf.

Active Units now start in the 90’s with some listing prices as high as $264,999. currently. Square Footage can run as small as 730 while some of the larger could be 1236 sq. ft, with many in between.

As with most of our property (waterfront included) there are many short sales in this complex along with Pre-Foreclosure, REO and thankfully some property that is a regular sale.

With that being said, check out the stats below for Gulf Island Beach and Tennis Club. As always, if you have any questions or concerns about this property or any property please feel free to email me or call me at your convenience.

AS OF 10/1/2011

CURRENTLY IN GULF ISLAND AND TENNIS CLUB THERE ARE:
21 ACTIVE LISTINGS
4 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
0 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $99,900.TO $264,999.

See WaterFront Property online at:

www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

Katie Creek-727-415-4669
Florida Luxury Realty

all information is deemed to be correct but not guaranteed

HUDSON BEACH UPWARD TREND ON WATERFRONT PROPERTY ENDS!

Katie Creek — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:22:00 GMT

NEIGHBORHOOD SPECIALIST OF:

SEA PINES, HUDSON BEACH AND SEA RANCH
(see property stats below)

PROPERTY UPDATES FROM
August 3th, to, September 2, 2011

LIVING BREATHING AND LOVING WATERFRONT PROPERTY!

WATERFRONT PROPERTY HIT THE SKIDS again this last month with only one sale the entire month in the sub-division of Leisure Beach. Tracking our Water Front Property this month seems that Leisure Beach continues to be a hot area as it again led the way with the only sale! This Waterfront property went UP from last month’s sales of $179,000 and $137,500. This property in Leisure Beach sold for $193,000. With a new FHA loan.

With that being said, we didn’t have any sales in Sea Pines, Hudson Beach or Sea Ranch. However, at this time there 5pending sales not counting the 2 in Leisure Beach.

At last writing there were 45 properties listed on the MLS that were For Sale! Now we are looking at a total of 40 in our area. This is making the inventory limited for that perfect home but still enough to search for a great purchase.

Asking price appears to have gone DOWN NOW with the highest asking price now at $449,999. This is a $50,000. Drop in the asking price in the four sub-divisions to a NEW LOW of $75,300.

Distressed Sales still dominate the market place. There are many REO Homes, Foreclosures and Pre-Foreclosure property available! And prices appear to be lower than the previous month. I wonder if this has something to do with the
S & P downgrade? Write me, I’d love to know your opinion.

Also if you’re thinking of purchasing a waterfront property, remember I work, live and sell in this area. I would love to help you find that perfect water front home. Maybe with a dock and a pool? But, if you’re thinking of selling, call me!

We’ll go over a personalized CMA of your home and I’ll give you my best advice as a Realtor in this area, as an ASP (Accredited Staging Professional) and of course as a Consultant. Ask me what you can do for you to get the best Return on your investment!

I look forward to meeting you soon.

Thanks for allowing me into your home!

Katie Creek
727-415-4669

AS OF 9/2/2011

CURRENTLY IN LEISURE BEACH THERE ARE:
5 ACTIVE LISTINGS
2 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $90,000.TO $146,000.

DOWN $26,500. FROM THE PREVIOUS MONTH
FOR HIGHEST LISTED

CURRENTLY IN HUDSON BEACH THERE ARE:
16 ACTIVE
2 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
0 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $88,000. TO $299,900.
DOWN $200,000. FROM THE PREVIOUS MONTH
FOR HIGHEST LISTED

CURRENTLY IN SEA RANCH THERE ARE:
10 ACTIVE LISTINGS
3 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
0 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $75,300.TO $449,000.
UP FROM PREVIOUS MONTH
FOR HIGHEST LISTED

CURRENTLY IN SEA PINES THERE ARE:
9 ACTIVE LISTINGS
0 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
0 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $115,000. TO $340,000.
NO CHANGE FROM LAST MONTH LISTINGS

See WaterFront Property online at:

www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

Katie Creek-727-415-4669
Florida Luxury Realty

Florida Luxury Realty and Katie Creek are not associated with the government and our services are not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer & use our service your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage you could lose your home and damage your credit.

all information is deemed to be correct but not guaranteed

STATS SHOW WATERFRONT NEIGHBORHOOD REBOUNDING

Katie Creek — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 14:18:00 GMT

NEIGHBORHOOD SPECIALIST OF:

SEA PINES, HUDSON BEACH AND SEA RANCH
(see property stats below)

PROPERTY UPDATES FROM
July 3th, to August 4, 2011

LIVING BREATHING AND LOVING WATERFRONT PROPERTY!

WOW....Waterfront Sales have taken off and People are realizing that prices will not be this low along with the interest rates for a long time to come. Tracking our Water Front Property this month seems that Leisure Beach again led the way again! We had 2 properties that have been SOLD there in the Month July and the first part of Ausust!   These Waterfront property went reasonable at $179,000 and $137,500. PRICES UP as in May through June the sales were $115,600 and $126,000!!   Still a far cry from the 2005 prices but considerably up in price!!!

With that being said, we also had another sale in Sea Pines. This one sold for $245,000. The May though June Sale was at $145,000. UP AGAIN. However, at this time there are no further pending sales but, there are now 8 active listings!

At last writing there were 58 properties listed on the MLS that were For Sale!  Now we are looking at a total of 45 in our area.  This is making the inventory limited for that perfect home but still enough to search for a great purchase.

Asking price appear to have gone UP Now with the Highest asking price now at $499,999. to a low of $115,000. Which is up from Last writing.   Mortgage rates are still at all time lows.

Out of the 5 sales that were generated last month between the 4 sub-divisions, there were 4 properties that sold for all cash and 1 that was purchased with a new conventional mortgage!

Mike Wells, Pasco County Property Appraiser said to be on the lookout for prices to start making the curve and head the other direction. At this particular time after looking at the stats I have to agree with him.

Distressed Sales are continuing to dominate the market place. There are many REO Homes, Foreclosures and Pre-Forclosure property available!

Don't forget about our FHA203K program. Get that house looking like brand new in 180 days or less after your purchase. You'de be surprised at what you'll find out and how this can help you get the home of your dreams!! And yes, you can use it for WaterFront Property!

Also if you're are thinking of purchasing a waterfront property, remember I work, live and sell in this area. I would love to help you find that perfect water front home.   Maybe with a dock and a pool?But, if you’re thinking of selling, call me!

We’ll go over a personalized CMA of your home and I’ll give you my best advice as a Realtor in this area, as an ASP (Accredited Staging Professional) and of course as a Consultant. Ask me what you can do to get the best Return on your investment!

I look forward to meeting you soon.

Thanks for allowing me into your home!

Katie Creek
727-415-4669

AS OF 8/4/2011

CURRENTLY IN LEISURE BEACH THERE ARE:
6 ACTIVE LISTINGS
1 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
2 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $90,000.TO $172,500.

CURRENTLY IN HUDSON BEACH THERE ARE:
19 ACTIVE
3 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $299,000. TO $499,999.

CURRENTLY IN SEA RANCH THERE ARE:
12 ACTIVE LISTINGS
1 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FRON $128,500. TO $349,900.

CURRENTLY IN SEA PINES THERE ARE:
8 ACTIVE LISTINGS
0 ACTIVE WITH CONTRACT or PENDING SALE
1 SOLD IN THE LAST 30 DAYS

PRICE RANGES ARE FROM $115,000. TO $340,000.

See WaterFront Property online at:

www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

Katie Creek-727-415-4669
Florida Luxury Realty

GET A 203K LOAN AND GET THE JOB DONE!!!

Katie Creek — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 20:45:00 GMT

203K COMING ON STRONG IN THIS ECONOMY

Perfect location, perfect house but the updating would take so much money. Would it be worth it? Well, it may just be.

OK, I have to admit, I went into this seminar a little skeptical with everything that is going on in our economy. But, I was pleasantly surprised to hear about something old (Being the 203K) having new life.

FHA 203K has been around since 1978, but not used much, until now. This program lets you purchase a home and repair the home and everything is figured into your payment. You can even do additions, or second stories, repair that septic system or well! This program covers just about anything you can think of within reason.

There are a couple of things to think about when using this program. First, it will improve the looks of the home itself. Second, all the remodeling to be done is added in prior to close. So, you are aware of the bottom line of this home (after the remodeling is done).

The way it works is this. Say, you find a nice home around 70K, in a great neighborhood, the location is perfect for you but, it just needs to much work. Enter..203K…say you need an additional 30K to have repairs done on the home.

Enter the General Contractor for this job, and have him get estimates for what you would like to have done. Visit Lowes, Home Depot, among others to see what repairs can look like after they are done. New bathrooms, kitchen, etc. Many of these places will do sample lay outs for you as well as give you the installation charges. Remember the appraisal on this home will be done on “after the improved value” and not what it is at time of purchase.

They will add the repairs into the sales price of the contract. So the price now becomes $100,000. After you pay your initial down payment of 3.5% the base loan would be $96,500. $30,000. Is in escrow for you to use for your remodeling.

It doesn’t stop there; any work that needs to be done must be started within 30 days and completed by 180 days.

There is a couple of catches though. First, you must use licensed, bonded, and insured contractors for the remodeling. Some things you are allowed to do yourself however. If you decide to do this yourself, the money that you have in escrow for this job, will be paid on your mortgage.

Here’s another one, say you’re a cash buyer, but you have no money for fix up. You can finance with a 203K loan and get the home up to par. New windows, doors, flooring, appliances, almost anything you need with the exception of a pool or hot tub.

Yes, I have to admit I was really surprised and will be adding this to my list of recommendations!

Katie Creek
727-415-4669
Florida Luxury Realty
Email: kdsrealestate@yahoo.com

Two Story HOME For Sale in Spring Hill Unit 06

Katie Creek — Fri, 28 Jan 2011 21:33:00 GMT

• 2,503 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm single story - MLS® $175,000 - AWESOME PROPERTY

Spring Hill Unit 06, Spring Hill - Great Room floor plan with 3 bedrooms, possibly 4 if you count the bonus room, 2 bath and 2 car garage. What a beautiful piece of property just view these pictures. Beauiful Trees and a side barn for all those accessories needed for the home.
Sitting on almost 1/2 Acre of land this concrete and stucco home boasts a newer roof, Filreplace & Inside Laundry Room are just some of the features of this home.
Large Oaks, plenty of greens and a view of the lake. EASY access to the Suncoast, U.S. 19, Tampa or any of our Major Airports. Close to all the area beaches, Restaurants and Shopping!

Property information

Pertaining to short sales, the FTC Mortgage Assistance Relief Services known as (MARS) has asked up to put this in all our advertising:

Florida Luxury Realty is not associated with the Government and your service is not approved by the Government or your lender. Even if you accept his offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

DID YOU KNOW YOU CAN HOMESTEAD A DUPLEX?

Katie Creek — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 16:43:00 GMT

Most people don’t realize that you can purchase a duplex and homestead one side of it while keeping the other side as a rental. If you need help with a mortgage this is just the thing to offset you’re payment. Especially with the interest rates being low right now.

You could probably purchase this home this home for less than $500.00 monthly (not counting taxes and ins.) at today’s current interest rate? This is of course with a 20% down mortgage at full purchase price. Taxes were less than a thousand dollars last year and if you homesteaded, they should be even less! Insurance on this including flood insurance is running currently $1800. Not to bad being so close to the water and beaches.

What a great opportunity that is currently available for someone that would like to get started in Rental properties while living close to the beach. The market is great and it doesn’t matter if you’re a young family, snowbird, or retiree, you couldn’t ask for anything much better.

With that being said I want you to know that I Ljust listed this 2 bedroom 2 bath Duplex with a 1 bedroom 1 bath rented, and the other side is awaiting your arrival. Laundry Area could be put in place as it already has all the hookups. Huge back yard with fire pit ready to go along with that extra storage unit. A large area Lanai is already in place and that could be screened in if wanted!

Located close to all the area’s fishing and boating facilities. Hudson Beach is just about a mile away, and only about 45 minutes to Tampa or Clearwater recreation or airports.

Area Malls are both North and South of this location. You are within walking distance to a strip mall that has a major grocery chain and restaurants. If you plan on purchasing in the next few months, why not think about something like this? It’s a win-win situation for you, the buyer, and the tenant. Needless to say, giving you help to pay your mortgage!

You can see this Duplex Online at:
http://www.fl-waterfrontproperty.com/Listing/ViewListingDetailsAuthenticated.aspx?preview=true&listingid=30880900

Katie Creek
Florida Luxury Realty
727-415-4669

UPDATE ON SHORT SALE and LOAN REDUCTION

Katie Creek — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:03:00 GMT

As you may know, I have and currently have short sales in process. The process of a short sale does not appear to be getting any better in fact, sometimes it seems like it continues to get worse and worse.

In the meantime, homes are continuing to drop in value and the market remains unstable. A couple of years ago I figured that we would be pulling out of this by now but because of the persistance of the lenders and the economy it does not seem it's true here in Florida.

Property here is at a fantastic price which puzzles me why investors haven't been down purchasing some of the best homes available here on the water! With the interest at an all time low...I have to question, why this is.

On another note, I have just added on to my short sale page at http://shesellshortsales.com Here you will find the new LOAN REDUCTION that you may have seen on TV. This came to light late last year as the Attorneys seem to have found a way to help in the Loan Reduction process. I have been to the classes on this and personally, I can't believe my hears. But, if this is true, witch seems to be after watching C-Span.....The American People should be outraged. Go ahead and check this out, it's on the same page as the Short Sale Process. You may enjoy reading this and if your behind or upside down at all, this plan could be for you.

Hope your New Year is going well, I'll keep you informed on how mine is going.

Join me on FaceBook for updates, there's no to many Katie Creek's around....LOL

Katie
727-415-4669

Florida Luxury Realty is no associated with the government and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

WATERFRONT AT IT'S FINEST!

Katie Creek — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 20:24:00 GMT

JUST REDUCED THIS FANTASTIC WATERFRONT AND FANTASTIC FLORIDA!!! Check out this WaterFront Property available with over a quarter acre. If you getting ready to build and need a great location you couldn't ask for anything better. Located on Hudson Creek, Hudson, Florida is noted for it's tides and the tide chart. Large Deep Water Canal with Newer Seawall already in place just waiting for your boat. Catch Fish, Crabs, watch Dolphin and Manattes all year round. Known for some of the areas best fishing and close to Hudson Beach.

Restaurants galore, an Ice Cream Shop just up the street and Flea Market just down the road. Within an hour to either Tampa International Airport or Clearwater - St. Petersburg's airport. Come and play in Hudson today!!!

Katie Creek
www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com
727-415-4669

SHORT SALE UPDATE

Katie Creek — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:03:00 GMT

I just wanted to pop in and let you know that I just got finished doing a new site about short sales. You can view this site at: www.SheSellShortSales.com
Although it's rather lengthy it does give you some insight on short sales and the process that we go through. Short Sales do not happen overnight although with plenty of perserverance, it will get done!

Here are a few things that I've learned through my journey this last few weeks, and I thought that I would take this opportunity to share them with you!

It appears that interest rates will continue to stay low for a while longer, however lenders are warning that inflation is about to hit and the rates will begin to rise soon. Some are talking double digits by the end of next year. Let’s certainly hope not, but history does repeat itself!

Short Sales should remain plentiful as lenders are currently holding back many homes to help our market stabilize. I look for Short Sales to continue for a few more years. Our economy will be the determining factor when we really are “through the worst of it”.

Also, did you know that De-Cluttering and Home Staging will bring you the most return on your investment dollar? As a Realtor and ASP (Accredited Staging Professional) I can show you the way to get your home ready for sale and reap that ROI

Cleaning and de-cluttering remains in the top priority. A whopping 872% return according to……seems like I can clean and clean my closets, but the clutter always wants to remain!!!!
Second place is held by Home Staging with a WHOPPING 586% return.
Third, and usually not realized is Lighting and Brightness...one that is often overlooked can cost you. The return on this investment? 572% bet ya didn't know that one..???

Forth, landscaping. Did you know that when selling Real Estate that this is the very first impression that people get. It’s not the inside…but the outside that can really sell a home! This return come in at 473%. and one again that could be overlooked.

Did you know that I once showed property listing that never once mentioned the beautiful Koi (humm...this may not be spelled right, but you know what I mean) pond. It was so beautiful and I was so shocked when I walked up on it. Needless to say, I felt sad that this was not even mentioned in the MLS listing.

Inexpensive home improvements & just basic cleaning will greatly enhance the value of a home along with the salability and selling price.

Katie Creek
727-415-4669
www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com
www.HudsonBeachPeach.com
www.SheSellShortSales.com

IS A SHORT SALE HOME A GREAT DEAL? YOU DECIDE!!!

Katie Creek — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 12:35:00 GMT

This depends upon a few different things, first how much the home initially is, second if the lender will accept your offer, third you’ve heard this before, location, location, location, forth, what the “real cost” of the home is.

While many great deals are out there classified as “Short Sales” there are a few things that a buyer should be aware of. First and foremost, has the lender OK’D the price of this home? In other words told the listing agent that they will sell this home at a certain price? It’s been my experience that there are some agent’s low balling the selling price of a home to get multiple offers on a home. Thus creating an auction like process.

Best suggestion before making an offer on a home is to check and see if there are multiple offers. This will not only influence your offer but, what you offer will be carefully looked over by the lender.

Another thing that many people don’t realize is the cost of a short sale as lenders now are doing several different things to regain some of their losses. First, they may try and negotiate an offer, by asking for a higher selling price. Second, they may ask that you pay the DOC Stamps on the Selling price of the home. Third, they may ask for you to pay Title Insurance, or possibly both. Forth, they may ask for the buyer to pay all Closing Cost. Fifth, be aware many lenders will not turn on the electric or water for your inspections leaving you “in the dark” about what may (or may not) be wrong with the home. Of course, you can pay for this if wanted.

So, let’s take a look at a 100,000 home for instance. If you are asked to pay Title Insurance on this home, it could be around $775. Doc Stamps would run approximately $700. Commissions vary but with 6% commission your cost would be $6000. And, administration fees, they vary now anywhere from around $250 to $399. So you see, closing costs on a home can really adds up.

Your $100,000. Home just cost you about $108,000. More or less. However, if you need to purchase a mortgage for this home there will be other charges, the mortgage company will charge you for the mortgage, this usually varies from lender to lender. Along with this charge there will be Escrow for the insurance company, (this is usually one year in advance) Escrow for your taxes. You may want a Home Warranty then there is another charge, and so on and so on.

So, it could be by the time you are looking to purchase that $100,000. Home it may cost you more like $120,000. Then it becomes your call if you think the home is worth the extra monies. By the way, the selling price of the home remains the same of $100,000. All the while, this process could take several months to complete!

Hope this helps in your process of purchasing a “Short Sale”.

Katie
Florida Luxury Realty
727-415-4669

The FCT Mortgage Assistance Relief Services know as (MARS) are asking us to put this on all our advertising:

THE MORTGAGE REVOLUTION: WALKING AWAY

Katie Creek — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:51:00 GMT

The following article appeared on Housing Watch by Alyssa Kalz, January 25, 2010.

After sending it email to many of my friends I got such feedback that I wanted to share this with many of you.

THE NEW MORTGAGE REVOLUTION: WALK AWAY!!!

Big real estate developers do it all the time - like yesterday, when the owner of New York City's Stuyvesant Town complex decided to stop paying its $3 billion mortgage. So why are you still writing a check every month on that mortgage that's much bigger than your home is actually worth?

Good question, University of Chicago economist Richard Thaler says. Thaler tells New York Times readers that it's not just alright to walk away from one's over-sized mortgage -- it may actually be a moral imperative. (An earlier Times article, by Roger Lowenstein, said much the same thing.) After all, lenders had no second thoughts about lending more than many borrowers could afford or than the homes might actually be worth. It's just not fair to expect borrowers to follow rules that the lenders don't.

But why stop there? Some commentators are now calling on borrowers to start a mass mortgage strike.

"Remember burning draft cards? Burn your mortgage," the blog DailyKos told readers recently:

"The real risk to the banks and investors is that the people in those homes might just decide to walk away. And that's what we must do. Doesn't have to be everybody, of course; but anyone who finds themselves seriously underwater with no hope of ever recouping their investment....just walk away Renee. Morality has nothing to do with it. You are a cog in the wheel of a machine that is killing this country and if you remain a cog you enable it. Remove your cog and the machine will not keep running. Remove millions of cogs and the machine gets replaced."

Now the call for a borrowers' revolt is being joined by folks who know an opportunity when they see it: real estate agents. Over the past month, agents have been rushing to declare 2010 "the year of the strategic default." Here's Connecticut Realtor Minna Reid:

Loan modifications do not address the real problem of heavy negative equity and are sure to fail most of the time. Even if the homeowner lowers their current payment they are left more trapped than ever. There will be no quick recovery this time. Years later when there is a need to HAVE TO move, the original problem of being upside down remains and the modified homeowner is left to short sell or foreclose once again.

Isn't it better to just cut the losses upfront ?

I know many will consider strategic default wrong or immoral, but as for me, I stopped passing judgment long ago.

Reid is far from the only real estate agent using mass revolt against the banks as a sales strategy. San Diego broker Bob Schwartz asks, "How many homeowners will suddenly wake up to the fact that their home is now worth tens of thousands of dollars less than their mortgage balance? Only the naive will believe that their San Diego home's value will bounce back anytime soon.... Defaulting "strategically" can entice more walk-aways by buying all the major items they may need in the near future, such as a car or even a house, right before they take a hike. As long as you stay current with other mortgage lenders, one could potentially have a good credit standing in 2 years after the walk-away."

And Phoenix agent Bob Stahl joins the chorus, assuring borrowers that a strategic default followed by a short sale won't hurt their ability to get a mortgage in the future.

Many of the agents calling for a mass movement of strategic defaulters specialize in short sales -- selling a home for less than the mortgage on it – something that mortgage servicers will often only consider once a borrower has begun to miss payments. It's ironic that after years of helping push prices up to maximize commissions, real estate agents are now pushing borrowers to dump their properties in short sales, so they can jump in and close a deal.

Still, they may be on to something.

Calling for mass strategic defaults is the equivalent of shouting "fire" in a crowded theater, prompting a stampede to the exits, and stampedes can leave a lot of people hurt – in this case, all the homeowners who live next door to the borrowers who stop paying, and suddenly see their property values plummet.

But there's also potential for millions of borrowers to gain if strategic defaults occur on a large scale. Nearly one in four borrowers nationally owes at least 20 percent more on mortgages than their home is actually worth, and in Nevada and Arionza it's more than half. The Wall Street Journal reports that about 1 million borrowers deliberately decided to stop paying their mortgages in 2009, or one in four of all mortgage defaults. When a critical mass of borrowers stops paying, it makes lenders – really, we're talking about the investors in mortgage-backed securities -- a whole lot more receptive to the idea of lowering the principal borrowers owe on their mortgages to persuade them that it's worth continuing to pay.

"People are spending far more on mortgage and ownership costs than they would to rent the same unit and there is almost no realistic prospect that there will ever get equity in many of these homes," says Dean Baker, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research and author of the book False Profits: Recovering From the Bubble Economy. "Walking away will save them money and also free up money for consumption, thereby providing a boost to the economy. Banks will likely be far more forgiving of people who default in this crisis than they would ordinarily be. This isn't altruism -- they want to be able to make loans."

This is just one of the articles in Housing Watch...Here's the link:

http://www.housingwatch.com

Katie Creek

727-415-4669

kdsrealestate@yahoo.com

The FTC Mortgage Assistance Relief Services know as (MARS) has asked us to put this on all advertising if we use the term "Short Sale."

NEW SHORT SALE GUIDELINES MAY HELP YOU RESTART

Katie Creek — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 11:27:00 GMT

I just received the following from my title company. This may help if your possibly thinking about a Short Sale and moving to another location.
Here are the Guidelines, see if you qualify!

Government Announces Short Sales Guidelines
The U.S. Treasury Department announced new guidelines this week designed to make short sales go more smoothly.

Scheduled to launch in April 2010, the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program (HAFA) will offer up to $3,500 in incentive payments to qualified borrowers, servicers and investors who complete short sale transactions for properties with loans on the verge of foreclosure.

HAFA allows the borrower to receive pre-approved short sale terms before the property is listed and frees them from future liability for the debt. Also, servicers utilizing the program are prohibited from requiring a reduction in the real estate commission agreed to in the listing agreement.

To qualify under these new guidelines:

The property must be the home owner’s principal residence.
The home owner must be delinquent on the mortgage or close to defaulting.
The loan must have been made before Jan. 1, 2009, and be for less than $729,750.
The borrowers’ total monthly mortgage payment must exceed 31 percent of their before-tax income.

The following incentives will apply:

· The borrowers will receive $1,500 from the government for relocation expenses.

· The mortgage-servicing companies will receive a $1,000 from the government to cover administration and processing costs.

· Investors who hold the first mortgage will receive up to $1,000.00 from the government for allowing the second-mortgage holders to receive up to $3,000.00 of the sales proceeds in exchange for releasing their liens.

In total, each transaction under HAFA will cost the Treasury up to $3,500 in incentive payments.

Borrowers who complete a short sale under the program must be "fully released" from future liability for the debt, according to the guidelines.

Courtsey Keystone Title
Port Richey, FL

Katie Creek
727-415-4669
www.RealEstateHomesFlorida.com

The FTC Mortgage Assistance Relief Services know as "MARS" has asked us to up this on all advertising when using the term "SHORT SALE":

Florida Luxury Realty is not associated with the government and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

AMERICAN FORECLOSURES KEEP ON LOOMING

Katie Creek — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:32:00 GMT

As the economy continues to get blasted from all ends, mainstream Americans are seeing their homes value continue to plummet. Recent reports show that more than 23% of people that have a mortgage on their property owe more than it is worth. Another 2.3 million that are within 5 % of being underwater (meaning, owing more than their home is worth) bringing the total to approximately 28 percent.

Being a Realtor in these tough times is not the easiest thing in the world to do. Owners can’t get out of their homes to take on another job, or afford to retire to another location if they would like. Their previous “nest egg” has seen much better days, and walking away from a home may not be the best option for them. Although, I have to admit, I have seen it done.

With all the Federal Programs out there to help people now, you would think that the lenders would be willing to help out these people however; only about one in five actually are getting help from the lenders. It seems that they would prefer to foreclose on a property than to try and help the owners stay in their homes. So, let’s take a look at the picture from my point of view.

Lender not willing to help owners,
Lender then proceeds with the Foreclosure Process
Lender hires an attorney (not cheap)
Attorney files all paperwork
Now were in the court house stage, where this could set for a year or so.
Meanwhile, owner is living on or in the property without paying anything to lender.
Short Sale may be an option. However, owner may not have cash to bring to closing table.
People then move, via Short Sale or Foreclosure.

Have you any idea what the price tag of this maybe? Needless to say if the house has been abandoned, repairs may need to be done, lawn needs to be mowed (extra expense as county will mow) or anything extra that may need to be done could fall back on the lender. However, most sales are “as is” therefore, you better know what you’re buying.

In the meantime, the lender has lost a year or so worth of payments, had to pay an attorney, perhaps even a Realtor. I have said it before and I’ll say it again. If a lender can afford to give someone access to a home for 4% interest to start, do you think that this lender is making money? Of course they are! Just not as much as they would like to up front, but plan on it, on the back end.

With that being said, while the Lenders are giving themselves HUGE BONUSES you, the average, hard working middle class American take the hit for more taxation and more control by the Government!

Wall Street and the Players of bigger Government have proven to us repetitiously, that they cannot restraint themselves when it comes to the American Taxpayer Monies. This being said, if we don’t soon find ourselves someone with real common sense when it comes to matters such as these we may want to consider what our next lifestyle may be. Perhaps a commune?

UNDERWATER MORTGAGES:

California: 35 Percent
Michigan:   37 Percent
Florida:      45 Percent
Arizona:     48 Percent
Nevada:     65 Percent

Katie Creek
727-415-4669
www.RealEstateHomesFlorida.com

THE GOOD, BAD or UGLY HISTORIC HOME CHART

Katie Creek — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:29:00 GMT

A few months ago I had the privilege of watching Glenn Beck. He is a huge fan of mine as I feel he is one of the most upfront commentators on the tube today. The episode that he had on was a chilling tale of what we may be headed for and I think that most Americans would agree that History just may be repeating itself again like it has so many times in the past.

Even though this video is now 9 months old, it’s nice to review the chart he created of the American Home sales where they were in what era (which got my attention as a Realtor) and where they may actually be headed. Because many of you do not work in Real Estate you may not feel the same effects that I do, but I think it would behoove us all to take notice of this video and think about it seriously.

http://glennbeck.com/content/articles/article/198/22010/

Since this has been broadcasted we have had the First Time Homebuyers Program, a National Stabilization Program, a Lease Back Program and now a tax credit for people that want to move if they have been in their home for 5 years or more.

Interest is remaining low and is projected to creep up gradually. Inventory is still quite high here in the State of Florida, and the prices are exceptional. All of these incentives for you to move or to buy a home and yet today, a national poll states that only 5% of American expect to move this coming year.

Please watch this video and give me your feedback. I would love to hear what your opinion is of this either way....good or bad.

As they Say "the proof will be in the pudding".

Katie
727-415-4669
http://www.RealEstateHomesFlorida.com

The FTC Mortgage Assistance Relief Services know as "MARS" has asked us to put this on all advertising when the term "SHORT SALE" is used.

Florida Luxury Realty is no associated with the governmen and our service is not approved by the government or your lender. Even if you accept this offer and use our service, your lender may not agree to change your loan. If you stop paying your mortgage you could lose your home and damage your credit rating.

HEY, WHERE'S THE STIMULUS MONEY?

Katie Creek — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:26:00 GMT

Where The STIMULUS Money Went

Despite hundreds of billions of dollars given to banks in late 2008 and early 2009, they're plainly not lending as much as they could. Instead, much of the money has gone to build up capital, acquire other companies and make sure that no executive misses a fat paycheck for the leadership efforts that created the mortgage meltdown in the first place.

As an example, the New York state comptroller's office says that in 2008 “the bonus pool paid by the securities industry to its employees in New York City totaled $18.4 billion in 2008 based on personal income tax collections and other factors, including industry revenue and expense trends. This represents a decline of 44 percent compared with the $32.9 billion paid in 2007. The decline is the largest on record in absolute dollars and the largest percentage decline in more than 30 years, but the size of the bonus pool is still the sixth largest on record.”

It was Adam Smith who said we are each guided by the “invisible hand of self-interest.” In the case of the nation's banking system there's nothing invisible about it. Money from the U.S. government that was plainly intended to restore the lending process has instead been diverted into lender vaults and executive accounts. Having been spent for other purposes, that money is simply unavailable to mortgage borrowers, regardless of their credit standing or the value of their homes.

So, this explains to me why I have a First Time Homebuyer that has been waiting for almost 2 months for a CLEAR TO CLOSE. Thank GOD for patient sellers!!

Any comments please feel free to email me at: kdsrealestate@yahoo.com

Katie

727-415-4669

www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

CHINESE DRYWALL CONSUMER SCAM

Katie Creek — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 13:56:00 GMT

Please Tell anyone you know that may
have purchased a home recently, where
this may be a concern

CONSUMER ALERT!!!
AVOID THIS CHINESE DRYWALL SCAM

At least two types of fraudulent activity involving the defective drywall have been reported to the Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum’s Office by individuals in the building industry: bogus tests to determine the presence of the product and quick cure remedies that falsely claim to remove the corrosive properties of the drywall.

According to reports, defective Chinese drywall in a home causes black corrosion to appear on copper air conditioner coils and non-insulated copper wiring. If the air conditioner coils are corroded black, there is a strong likelihood that defective imported drywall is present in the home. Most homes that contain defective imported drywall were built between 2004 and 2008. Other homes probably do not have Chinese drywall.

McCollum says there are two easy ways to find out if defective Chinese drywall was used in a home: Ask the homebuilder or have a qualified professional air conditioner technician conduct a visual inspection.

However, the presence of defective imported drywall cannot be determined by “testing” the air in the home. Additionally, if the toxic version of drywall is found during a visual inspection, it cannot be remedied with a spray or an ozone generator. McCollum says those products can actually make the problem worse.

The Florida Attorney General’s Office has had the following specific complaints so far:

• Sale of bogus test kits. These can be expensive, often costing thousands of dollars, and are generally ineffective. The presence of defective imported drywall can only be determined through visual inspection.

• Solicited home inspections costing thousands of dollars by “experts” with no apparent qualification. Homeowners should beware of cold calls and door-to-door solicitors.

• Sale of sprays and applications that claim to miraculously cure the corrosion problem. Not only are these products ineffective, but moisture could accelerate the corrosion.

• Sale of ozone generators. Ozone will actually increase the chemical reaction between the drywall and copper and accelerate corrosion.

Consumers can file a complaint about scams by calling the Attorney General’s fraud hotline at (866) 966-7226 or by filing a complaint online at http://myfloridalegal.com.

Katie Creek
www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com
727-415-4669

HOLDING FHA RESPONSIBLE: BUYER BEWARE

Katie Creek — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:18:00 GMT

Here we go again with the lending institution and right now I am so upset with the lenders of these institutions that I want you all to be aware of what just has happened to me so that it doesn't happen to you, unless of course it already has.

Buyer on said property made an offer on a short sale. No big deal this is done every day right. Right, however the lender chose another offer over hers so, the hunt for that perfect property was on again. Enter my listing, not a short sale, all the paperwork done and contract in place. Now the buyer is of course going through the loan process. It has now been 10 weeks. Yup, I said 10 weeks, and guess what the hold up is, the lender said that she had been denied a loan for this short sale. What??? How can this be when she never went to a lender, because the lender on the short sale chose another offer? Beats me!!! What does submitting a loan with a pre-approval have to do with an actual loan? And, since her contract was nixed, why would she be jeopardized?

So, if this is happening to her, I am sure that it is happening to thousands of people out there that are requesting a loan through FHA on property. Even though they may have submitted an offer on a short sale, they may be turned down because they SUBMITTED THE OFFER!!!! HEADS UP GUYS....we need to be making these lenders RESPONSIBLE for what they are doing. Or, is this just another gimmick not to lend money to a good buyer?

Katie
727-415-4669
www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

The FTC Mortgage Assistance Relief Services known as "MARS" has asked us to put this disclosure on all advertising when using the term "SHORT SALE":

IS THIS ETHICAL ON SHORT SALES?

Katie Creek — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 12:20:00 GMT

OK, SO A Buyers agent yesterday took a class on Short Sales. At this time they were told they are only to submit ONE offer to the lender, not several. So the two of us had a long discussion that followed that went something like this.

So, we are only suppose to submit one offer. Lets say several days go by and then another offer comes in for this same property but lets say, $35,000. more than the previous offer. Still we can't submit this to the lender?

Isn't it OUR JOB to get the most for my client as possible on this property? So, I find this a double edged sword. The lenders want to get as much for the property as possible, you also in turn want to do the best job you can for your client.

We all know most of these lenders will be taking months to make a decision on the property, and isn't this leaving the lender open for a possible suite against them or us, if we don't submit all offers?

I understand that Our job is to present all offers to our sellers. When we have lenders involved, which in reality they are the sellers, shouldn't they be making this decision? And by not presenting these offers to the "sellers" are we not destroying our ethics and everything that we stand for?

Katie Creek

www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

INTEREST RATES AT NEAR ALL TIME LOW!

Katie Creek — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 20:29:00 GMT

With the interest rates taking a tumble it's become a hot topic of wheather or not you think now would be the time to refinance. Well, let me tell you my professional opinion. Anyone that's worked with me can tell you "I am the tell is like it is girl". So, I must tell you what I think at this point.

First we know that the rates are extremely low. There is also a tax rebate to the first time homebuyer of $8000. this year. This does not mention the National Stabilization Programs that are out there in many of these counties including Pasco. So, all this combined, yes, yup, and yaaaaa....it's a great time to buy or refinance which ever you chose.

I have to tell you though straight up, that as a Realtor the one thing that I hate is handing over my hard earned paperwork to the lenders. I never know who I'm going to be dealing with and I espectially don't know how they will be treating my clients. I have suffered through many emotional trials because of our lenders and let me tell you ladies and gentlemen, it isn't pretty!

So, I have joined Real Estate Partners, this is a mortgage company owned by myself and my fellow Realtors that allows me to GUARANTEE you more than just low interest rates and closing costs. They actually quote you FIXED closing cost instead of estimates that often change before or even AT CLOSING! Get this, they will actually match any offer from any source you can find and prevent that last minute surprise (like 5% extra that just happened to one of my clients) from start to finish!!! (I am currently waiting on one that was suppose to close on March 19, and didn't, it is now April 4th at the time of this writing)

So who are you going to call, when it's time to do this? Call me, your Realtor. Many of you have worked with me and know, as your Realtor I have your best interest at hand. With the countries financial woes traced to abuses by the loan orgination companies, I feel compelled to take steps that would protect my clients in any home financing or refinancing situation.

I don't want my clients to run into bad advice, or lack of concern by people that I've seen so often. I want to continue to be your trusted advisor and be able to guarantee a successful mortgage so you know exactly where your at with no surprises at the end.

Call me today, I'll be glad to help you any way I can.

Katie Creek
727-415-4669

www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

IS THE MARKET PICKING UP?

Katie Creek — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:14:00 GMT

This questions will be on every Realtors mind as we continue though this year of 2009. The fact that our President has just given the lending institutions another Stimulas may just be the key to what we need. Question is, is it?

The problem lies in the fact that no one has forced our lending instutions to lend monies as of yet and the lenders continue to come up with certain "road blocks" along the way. One for instance just happend to me last month. Here it is in a nut shell.

My clients had been dealing with this instution for roughly 3 months. Everything was in place to purchase the "home of their choice". One minor exception. Two weeks before closing they were told that they would have to come up with another 5% down. Now, most Realtors know that this right here is a deal killer as most people would not have that extra stashed away somewhere. However, my clients happened to be the "older generation" and did have to break that CD to be able to purchase this home.

The reason my client was told is was that "the mortgage business was slow right now and that they needed more capitol down". Go figure!!! Regardless, I don't think that this was fair to my client or any person that may have been purchasing a home. This is only one of the many I am told are out there. However, this was a first hand experience.

As I continue to fight for you, the American people, please feel free to follow my blog.
I try and write as often as I can and show property and be as good to my clients as I possibly can. After all, isn't that what we're really suppose to do MR. LENDER?????

Blessings to you my friends,
until I write again.

Katie
www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

727-415-4669

"A NEW CONCEPT---JUST SAY NO"???

Katie Creek — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:40:00 GMT

Today I received a Realtor email from a highly well know source the article mentioned that “if sellers refuse to budge on a too-high asking price or won’t make necessary improvements many real estate brokers now urge agents to turn down the listing”.

Really, well where have you been lately??? The problem with this article is that many of us have been turning down these listing since the market turned approximately 3 years ago, but who’s watching!!!??? I, for one will not accept a listing if after I talk with the sellers, they still want an outrageous price. I must say, that I probably have turned down more listings this past 3 years than I’ve made sales.

However, if I am to be honest with my Seller (which I always am) then I have to be upfront with them and "TELL IT LIKE IT IS". Unfortunately, many of the sellers still believe that they can get double or triple what the EXACT same house went for on the next block! And please beware of that "I HEARD" statement, check the facts yourself. Look at the counties web site. This will give you all the valuable information you need and it will deal in FACTS, not hear say.

Let's face it, times are tough, but being unrealistic is not an option in this market. We, as Realtors are out there trying to do our job and lead you in the right direction. It’s like leading a horse to water and we all know the rest of that story is. If we tell you that the house needs painting, please listen, we are not running you’re home down in fact, we are trying to make you’re home sell faster in a difficult market.

We don't want to hurt you, or anyone else's feelings but, we want to do the best possible job for you, the people that employ us. Listen to you’re realtor, they have some good suggestions and please remember we deal in this market on a daily basis. We know what’s going on, and if you don’t believe this, well, just ask us or, for that matter just ask me!!!

Katie
www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com
Email: kdsrealestate@yahoo.com

WEEKEND WARRIOR--WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY

Katie Creek — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:55:00 GMT

I'LL ALWAYS BE DAD'S SUNSHINE

Wow what a weekend, all weekend I was either showing property, emailing or talking to someone about WaterFront Property and why now is the time to buy. The Gentleman that call here yesterday couldn't believe what his friend just picked up here on the water. I myself am in somewhat disbelief that people haven't realized how reasonable the property is to live right here on the Coast where the weather is beautiful and fishing is some of the best fun around!!!

It only goes to prove the point that I have been making for months that people can pick up a water front property for under $200,000. I showed a place Saturday afternoon that is on the market for $159,900. This is a 2 possibly 3 bedroom home, kitchen was completely re-done has new windows and doors. Needs a little TLC but it also has 135 ft. of seawall and sits on the corner of 2 large canals.

What potential is this???? I also had the priveledge of attending 2 auction sales. One of the last bids was on a house (on a tiny canal) and the final bid with the 10% buyers Premium...$77,000. This was a 2 bedroom home with 2 lots....get out!!! A few years back this home sold for $450,000. This little crackerbox of a home.

The other one was a large house with a pool, dock and davits, Stilt home Over 2000 sq. ft. with a 3 car garage. This only got up to $275,000. A few years back this could have been over $600,000.

As time goes by I know that I'm going to be hearing people say...I should have bought when prices were low. Of course you should have. I wish I could have a microphone so I could announce it to the world of people that LOVE The water as I do, if you have ever though about buying on the water...this is it...now is the time....do it...or you will regret it and be part of that club that keeps saying I could have, but by then, it will be to late!!!

Check out Water Front Homes at: www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

Katie Creek
727-415-4669
Florida Luxury Realty

"BUYING HOMES AT PUBLIC AUCTION, BUYER BEWARE"

Katie Creek — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:12:00 GMT

ANOTHER BILL OF GOODS BE SOLD TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

BUYING HOMES AT AUCTION

Got your attention? Good, then here’s the scoop, I am a realtor and maybe a little out spoken for my own good but I cringe every time someone walks up to a microphone and says, “American’s could come out ahead after this property is sold by auction”.

Let me tell you folks, this is nota, no, not true and nope. Let’s review the things that these people aren’t telling us. First, there are extreme expenses incurred when a property is taken back. You have court costs, lawyer fees, and of course that old thing called interest. Not to mention home values have dropped by thousands since 2005.

But, this is only a small part of it. On top of everything else, the people may be allowed to live in these properties for months because of the backlog of paperwork we now have in our court system. In my area alone more than 800 cases go into foreclosure every month, about half reach that foreclosure status. This means 400 homes more or less per month are being foreclosed on in just one county!

In the meantime, let’s think about what’s going on. There could be maintenance that needs to be done on these properties like, mowing the lawn so “our government” won’t get fined. If you’re in a deed restricted community, there could be Home Owner Association Fees that will need to be paid. And, oh yes….did anyone think that soon the property taxes on all these foreclosured homes will be do? We’re talking thousands of dollars right there! Needless to say that this is of course, an added expense to the cost of the home.

Let’s review here a home that may go to public auction. The people have lived in this home for several months before being evicted. Knowing so, they have decided to “take” with them everything they can. Hence, the lighting comes down, ceiling fans, all appliances, even bathroom and kitchen sinks. One last thing before we leave lets make sure we put cement down the toilet…!!!! That is if they didn’t take the toilet.

Now, I’m not saying that everyone may do this however; this is exactly what has been going on in homes around my area. In fact, I even know of a home where they took all the cabinets, including the center kitchen island. I’m sure there has to be many other horror stories out there that haven’t even reached my ears yet. And at a public auctions, many times you are not even allowed in to "preview" the home prior to auction!

All said and done folks, if our government thinks they are going to make some money off purchasing these homes and selling them at auction they definitely are out of their league of expertise. Oh, but I forgot, they can just make more money to cover these expenses too right?

When you buy a home at public auction, the term “BUYER BEWARE” shouts to me out loud. More so now then ever. What you think may be a good deal may actually be disaster with a capitol D!

Katie Creek

727-415-4669

email: kdsrealestate@yahoo.com

www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

www.katie.listingbook.com

THE BAIL OUT OF FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC

Katie Creek — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 11:05:00 GMT

Why can’t Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac be allowed to fail? The mortgage defaults and foreclosures in the US will hit the Asian central banks among others. The defaults on Mortgage Backed Securities by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be looked upon the world as almost equivalent to a default by the US government on US treasury bonds. This would have a global effect, not just here in America.

AND NOW THE REST OF THE STORY

Recently our government bailed out Bears and Stearns the biggest bank in America. You remember that. Now we’re getting hit again with Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. This is going to cost us BILLIONS OF DOLLARS. Truth of the matter is by the time this is all done and over it may be more like TRILLIONS.

Wait more good news on the horizon! The big three have also asked for help from the government and American Airlines may be in need of a life jacket! My question is this, if we as Americans keep bailing out industry without anyone taking responsibility for what is happening where will this stop? And, if they (our government) is willing and able to help out the “Big Boys” shouldn’t they be willing to help out those small business owners and the middle class Americans also?

Is there a fix? Of course there is. The common sense approach, (woops, does that exist)? Here it is in a nutshell. If they have enough money to continue to bail out all the Big Businesses, they certainly would have enough to bail out you, John Q. Public. After all this is YOU’RE money were talking about. This is what you and I are paying taxes for.

Fix number one; get rid of the previous CEO’s of these corporations, and Oh, by the way, that million dollar severance package. Well, I think that could be used somewhere else to help our American citizens. Second fix, if they can give the Automobile industry a low cost loan, why can’t they do this for our American public? Isn’t this what got us into this crunch in the first place? If the lending intuitions were able to “Offer” Americans a low interest rate to get into a home, and their paying it ok, why not keep that interest rate the same instead of raising their interest rate and throwing them out of their home? I’ll tell you the answer to this if you haven’t figured it out, GREED!

All of this could have been avoided IF lending institutions would try and “help” instead of “hinder” our people. Given a chance most Americans will elect to sit down and try and salvage what they have. And if the Lenders were able to give a “low interest loan to get into a home” why can’t they just keep this loan at the low interest? Well, we know the answer don’t we? Banks and lenders would still be making money just not at a rate they expected. All the while keeping the American Dream of home ownership alive and well in America and employees on the job.

The second part of this is to get co-operation from our local government not to raise new home taxes to an outrages extent. Does this take work? Of course it does. But American’s have always come together to help one another in a crisis. Why not this and now?

As the housing market continues to decline and more Americans are taking on a heavy burden I’d just like to ask you one thing. Who is going to make the Property Tax Payments on all these foreclosed homes? What about the Condo dues if it’s a condo? Oh, and by the way, insurance (if elected) and maintenance on these homes will also need to be done.

Now I want you to know, I’m not a politician, however I do know that if I was I would be taking care of the American People’s money like I take care of mine, by balancing. I’d be making sure that we had a nice balance with every check written. I know that I can’t just turn around and MAKE MORE MONEY. Does our government understand this concept?

Last week American People took out over 14 Billion dollars from Wall Street. This tells me that our people do not trust the financial gurus’. Frankly, I don’t blame them. I think that I would rather have what I have left in my pocket than to give it to someone that I don’t know or trust All said and done, I just want you as Americans to be informed. That when it comes down to it, government spending is on the rise and middle class America can only take so much before it fails, if it hasn’t already.

Katie Creek
727-415-4669
Florida Luxury Realty
www.FL-WaterFrontProperty.com

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Katie Creek

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Please Tell anyone you know that mayhave purchased a home recently, wherethis may be a concern

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Please Tell anyone you know that may
have purchased a home recently, where
this may be a concern

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AVOID THIS CHINESE DRYWALL SCAM