While Florida still has the highest foreclosure rate in the nation, July 2014 showed a drop of 30% over July 2013. Home sales in Florida have been somewhat flat and property prices have begun a slow increase. Southwest Florida home sales, and homes sold in Punta Gorda, Port Charlotte, Rotonda, Venice and Sarasota have gained in price, the uptick is not dramatic. Because … Keep reading... about Florida Foreclosure Properties
Home Buying and Selling
Flood Hazard Zones
Many people misunderstand the coverage they have with their standard homeowner insurance policy and the need for additional flood insurance underwritten by the US government. FEMA was created by the Flood Protection Disaster Act of 1968 to regulate construction in coastal areas and flood plains. FEMA analyzed the flood prone areas of the nation and in 1970’s issued maps that … Keep reading... about Flood Hazard Zones
Housing price increase expected in 2014
Real estate analysts expect home prices to increase by 8.3% in Florida during 2014. Price increase was slow in the beginning of the year but the second half is expected to make up for the slow start. Blaming severe weather for slow price growth, analysts are optimistic for appreciation of prices across the country and especially in Florida. … Keep reading... about Housing price increase expected in 2014
Stable Home Prices
During the last half year there is growing evidence that home prices in Southwest Florida have or are stabilizing. In Tampa, prices have actually fallen 0.7% in March 2014 over February. However, that small change shows that while there are still a significant number of sales, the balance between available homes for sale and those selling is just about right. All signs point to … Keep reading... about Stable Home Prices
Chinese Investing in College Condos
In a surprising trend, buyers from China are investing in real estate in college towns. They often buy one or several condos or homes near a college so they can give their children an alternative to living in a dorm and to produce income as well. Considering the high cost of real estate in China, investment property in the US seems like a bargain. Buyers are not even worried … Keep reading... about Chinese Investing in College Condos