Port Orange Real Estate

2011-12-18T19:47:00.001-08:00

Winter Break has started. If you're not sure of what to do this week here's a short list of free and low cost activities:

Monday (12-19) at Michael's, Free Make-It Take It
Camille's Fun Dough Shapes
Tuesday (12-20) at Hollywood Theater $5 Movie day
Wednesday (12-21) at Michael's Free Make-It Take It
Orion's Foam Block Stamping
Friday (12-23) at Michael's Free Make-It Take It
Oliver's Sand & Glitter Art
** Michael's activities are for 3 year olds and up, and run from 11 am to 1 pm
While supplies last.

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Location:Port Orange

Bank of America Relocation Assistance for Short Sales

2011-10-07T07:30:00.001-07:00

Florida Enhanced Short Sale Relocation Assistance
Florida homeowners may receive $5,000 to $20,000
in relocation assistance.

Bank of America encourages distressed homeowners to explore a short sale as a viable option for avoiding foreclosure. To that end, for a limited time we are offering enhanced relocation assistance to help motivate homeowners to engage with us on a pre-offer short sale. An additional benefit for these pre-offer programs - such as the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA) and Bank of America's proprietary program - is that deficiency may be waived for the homeowner.

Eligibility:
Homeowners with property in Florida
Short sales initiated without an offer between September 26 and November 30
The customer will have to be eligible for one of the without offer programs such as the HAFA program or our proprietary program (specific investor participation and eligibility criteria do apply to these programs)
Successful closing of the eligible short sale by August 31, 2012
Minimum relocation assistance is $5,000 and maximum is $20,000, with the specific amount calculated based on the unpaid principal balance

Exclusions:
Ginnie Mae, FHA, VA and USDA loans are ineligible for participation
Lot loans are ineligible for participation
Properties outside the state of Florida are ineligible for participation
Short sales initiated with an offer are not currently eligible for the enhanced relocation assistance.

Call Bill Hellums, Realtor (386) 760 7607 for more information on the short sale of your home.

/div>Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Sunshine Automotive

2011-09-20T12:34:00.001-07:00

Sunshine Automotive of Port Orange
Our son found himself in need of a new car last weekend. His (20+ year old) car had caught on fire and was no longer drivable so he borrowed one of ours. While out running errands one day, we stopped in to look at some used cars at Sunshine Automotive on US 1 in Port Orange. Now I hate working with car dealers, but here we found the dealer polite, helpful, and with a no pressure approach. The prices were very fair. The cars were very clean and well checked out. The time there looking around and test driving one was very pleasant. We found several nice cars. We were very interested in, one more so than the others. The price was shockingly low, and the dealer said it was because it had "issues". The owner of the lot walked by and said "I won't sell you that car". He then explained that issue was a wiring problem and that it could be a fire hazard. We had to laugh to ourselves and told him we didn't need that.
We sent our son the website (www.sunshineautomotive.com), and on Saturday we returned to Sunshine Automotive, he drove a few cars, we even checked out another dealership, but returned to Sunshine. The choice was made and the price was so fair there was no haggling. While the paper work was being taken care of, the owner sat down with us to just talk and to make sure we were happy. He said that he didn't just want to sell us a car, but hoped to make us lifetime customers. He has.

/div>Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

The Pavilion at Port Orange

2011-06-04T12:26:00.001-07:00

Out and About
Our trips to The Pavilion at Port Orange

On Wednesday, we went to Red Robin to enjoy our free birthday burger ( just sign up for their Red Royalty Club card). After some tough decision making, we chose the Whiskey River BBQ Burger and the Banzai Burger. These gourmet burgers are hugh, juicy and delicious and are served with bottomless fries ( we swapped for sweet potato fries).

On Thursday, Hollywood Theaters was our destination to see Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides 3D. We loved the other movies in this series and this one is just as good as the first. (When you go you must stay through the credits to enjoy one final scene--it will make you laugh).
I was checking out Hollywood Theaters website and found that they are having a free family fun series every Wednesday at 10 a.m. from June 1st- Aug. 17th. You can't beat fun and FREE when it comes to keeping the kids busy during the summer.

On Saturday, we went to the Green Market, located in the Central Park area. We thought this would be the last time because the market was scheduled to end June 4th, but fortunately it has become an all year event. (Every Saturday 8a.m.-1p.m.). We love walking around looking at the different items the vendors have for sell and listening to the live music. Last stop the farmers market area. We picked up some great looking produce, at great prices and had a friendly chat with the people at Sam Sue Produce.

The Pavilion has lots to offer ( I haven't even mentioned the stores), we will be back next week at least once.Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Location:Port Orange

Family Financial Fair & Expo

2011-05-15T15:25:00.001-07:00

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is hosting a financial fair for the whole family on May 21st from 10am to 2:30pm at 1125 6th Street, Daytona Beach. Lunch will be a hotdog and chili dog cookout sold at cost. Free child care will be provide. There will be a bounce castle for the children along with other games while the parents can attend classes being taught by professionals from the local area. There will be financial classes on:

1. First Time Home Buying
2. Qualifying for a Habitat for Humanity Home
3. Is it Time to Refinance
4. Credit Repair & Restoration & Get out of Credit Card Debt
6. The Foreclosure and Short Sale Process as a Buyer and Seller
7. IRA, 401K, 403B, and other Retirement Plans
8. Preparing for next year's Taxes
9. Basic Investing in the Stock Market
10. Life Insurance

There will also be classes on family living like container gardening, first aid, food storage, and couponing.

Other sponsors include Merrill Lynch, Geico, Edward Jones, Allstate, Wachovia, Liberty Mutual, and Habitat for Humanity.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

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Location:1125 6th Street, Daytona Beach, FL

Not sure what to do in the Daytona Beach area try Inlet Harbor Restaurant & Marina in Ponce Inlet

2011-05-02T06:20:00.000-07:00

Not sure what to do in the Daytona Beach area try Inlet Harbor Restaurant & Marina in Ponce Inlet.
At the marina we went to explore The Replica Ships: Nina & Pinta. These two "sailing museums" are the most historically accurate replicas ever built.
You are allowed to walk around on the decks and envision the journey to the New World with 20-26 fellow crew members. Hopefully you like these other sailors because there is no personal space.
These ships will be in the marina until May 8th (Mother's Day) .
In the restaurant, we ordered the flavorful Mahi Mahi sandwich with fries and a pickle. But, Inlet Harbor has the best crab cakes so we just had to also order one these mouthwatering delights.
Our day: delectable and enticing making Inlet Harbor's slogan truly "The Place to Go!"
Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Venetian Bay Auction Oct 30, 2010

2010-10-04T13:00:00.000-07:00

The Johnson Group, the developer of Venetian Bay is having another auction to reduce inventory. There will be 8 condos, 38 Townhomes and 5 Single Family Homes on the block, 10 of which will be selling absolute.

The condos are 3 bedroom 3 bath and 4 bedroom 3 1/2 bath units originally selling from $382,000 to $525,000.

The townhomes are 2 bedroom 2 1/2 bath, 3 bedroom 2 1/2 bath, and 3 bedroom 3 bath units originally selling from $289,000 to $318,000.

The single family homes are 3 bedroom 2 bath homes and were originally priced from $269,000 to $330,000.

There is no minimum starting bid, and 10 of the units will be selling absolute, which means once the auctioneer accepts a bid, the unit will sell.

AUCTIONEER'S TERMS & CONDITIONS:
BIDDER REGISTRATION: All prospective bidders must register to bid.
TERMS: A $10,000 cashier's check is required for day of auction - Please make the Cashier's Check payable to yourself.
CLOSING: Closing within 30 days of auction.
DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE: Bidder's Information packets will be available on auction day.
REQUIREMENTS OF SUCCESSFUL BIDDER: 10% Buyer's Premium will be added to the final bid to establish the final sales price. The successful high bidder will be
required to sign a Real Estate Purchase Agreement immediately upon conclusion of the bidding.
TITLE: Title will be supplied by seller at seller's expense giving marketable title subject to restrictions of record. Taxes pro-rated per local method.
AGENCY: Auctioneer and its agents are sellers agents.

This last line of the Terms & Conditions is very important, no matter how friendly they are, the Auctioneer and their Representatives work for the Seller.

I work for you. I will be happy to preview these properties with or for you before the auction and will preregister you for the auction. If you are out of town, and won't be here for the auction, I can act as your agent and bid for you. I will be happy to preview the units and take photos for you as well.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

DR Horton Floor Plans in Venetian Bay

2010-09-12T19:33:00.000-07:00

DR Horton has released the floor plans for the homes in Venetian Bay, Savona North. Savona is located between the Town Center and the Golf course. Each home is concrete block construction and features a barrel tile roof and a 2 car garage with entry from the back of the house.

Floor Plan	Sq. Ft.	Beds	Baths	Stories	Priced From
Medina	1,416	3	2	1	$139,990
Adriano	1,660	4	2	1	$146,990
Viscaya	1768	3	2	1	$149,990
Segovia	1,903	3	2	1	$155,990
Palermo	2,180	4	2	1	$174,990

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

DR Horton Offering $20,000 in Free Upgrades in Venetian Bay

2010-09-10T07:03:00.001-07:00

DR Horton broke ground and are building homes in Venetian Bay. As you can see from the photo, the model home is well under way. As an incentive they are giving away $20,000 in upgrades with new "to be built" homes. What a great opportunity to put in that Granite, Stainless Steel Appliances and Lighting, or upgrade to the optional owners bath, exterior elevation and larger patio.

Contact me, Bill Hellums to receive your free Energy Star Side-By-Side Refrigerator with purchase of a new DR Horton Home.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

DR Horton Prices Starting under $140,000

2010-08-31T09:44:00.000-07:00

D R Horton has set the prices for their new homes in Venetian Bay. D R Horton has over 100 lots in Venetian Bay, Savona North and South areas. The 3 bedroom 2 bath single family homes in Savona North will start at 1416 square feet for $139,990. Other models will include single and two story homes with 3 and 4 bedrooms. All homes will have a rear entry garage. The 1660 square foot model price begins at $146,990. The 1903 square foot model will begin at $155,990 and the 2180 square foot model begins at $174,990. D R Horton pays closing cost and 100% USDA financing will be available. As always, contact me, BILL HELLUMS, REALTOR® at 386 760 7607 to receive an even lower price on your new home.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Will the Administration Bring Back the Homebuyer Tax Credit?

2010-08-31T09:10:00.001-07:00

Home sales during the month of July were worse than expected and the buzz about a possible revival of the federal homebuyer tax credit has begun.

I meet with Gov. Charlie Crist, who is running as an independent for a Florida Senate seat on Friday evening, and asked him if he would be in favor of bringing the Tax Credit back. Gov. Crist responded that he would support bring the credit back and that it would be a big boost to the Florida economy.

On Sunday's CNN’s “State of the Union” program, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan said.

“The July numbers were worse than we expected, worse than the general market expected, and we are concerned,....We’re going to continue to make sure folks have access to home ownership,” When asked about the First Time Home Buyers credit, he said “All I can tell you is that we are watching very carefully,” “We’re going to be focused like a laser on where the housing market is moving going forward, and we are going to go everywhere we can to make sure this market stabilizes and recovers.”

Gov. Crist, also on the program said a reinstatement of the homebuyer tax break “would be a great lift” and “would stimulate the economy…[and] increase home sales in Florida.”

“People are hurting, and they’re looking for answers. And that would be a good one. I would absolutely encourage the president to support [another homebuyer tax credit],” Crist told CNN.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

New Builder is coming to Venetian Bay

2010-06-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

D. R. Horton is coming to Venetian Bay. They have bought the land previously owned by KB Homes. They are a great builder and their homes are very reasonably priced. They currently are selling 3 bedroom 2 bath homes in Port Orange in the $150,000 price range. They will be a welcome addition to our community. I have a good working relationship with D. R. Horton and look forward to helping my clients obtain the best deal on a new home purchase.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Time is running out for the First Time Home Buyer Credit

2010-04-15T16:38:00.001-07:00

We only have 15 days left for the First Time Home Buyer Credit. There is still time to get a contract by the end of the month and close by the end of May, but time is definitely running out.

Most of the homes on the market right now are short sales and bank owned foreclosures, and there is no way to guaranty you will be able to meet the deadlines on these homes.

The best bet is with a new construction home, the problem with this is most builders stopped building spec homes when the market started going bad, so builder inventory is very small.

The other option is conventional sales, you remember those, that is where an individual places their home on the market and a buyer can negotiate a price without 3rd party approval from a bank.

Whichever route you chose, always have a Realtor on your side tor represent your interest. Call me today to find the home of your dreams.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Buying Property with your IRA

2010-04-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

Did you know you could buy Real Estate with your IRA? Housing prices are low, and now is a great time to scoop up a great bargain that will return a regular monthly dividend, in the form of a rental check to your retirement portfolio.
If you don't have enough money in your IRA, you can buy a percentage of a property. For instance, if you and your spouse each have $100,000 in your IRA, you could each buy 50% of a $190,000 house and still have $10,000 to cover expenses.
Not only will the value of the property likely increase, you will also be increasing the value of your IRA with the monthly rental income. And if you are using a Roth IRA, it will be all tax free income when you retire.
Call me today to discuss this great opportunity to take advantage of the low housing prices.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Venetian Bay Auction Part 3

2009-10-10T10:04:00.000-07:00

The Auction is just 2 weeks away, there have been 5 contracts written on the purchase of townhomes and condos since the pre-auction started. This enables buyers to lock in the price and take that unit off the market before the auction begins. It is a win win for both the buy and the builder.
If you are looking to join in on the auction make sure you preregister with me by sending me an E-mail. You will also need a cashiers check payable to yourself for $10,000 on the day of the auction.
Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

First Time Home Buyer Extended for U.S. Military

2009-10-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

The House of Representatives voted 416 to 0 to pass the Service Members Home Ownership Tax Act of 2009, which pushes the credit's current November 30 deadline back an additional year for members of the military, Foreign Service, and intelligence corps who served at least three months of qualified overseas duty in 2009. The next step is to pass the Senate and then to be signed by the President.
Extending the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit for everyone else is high on the Democratic Congressional to-do list. After meeting with President Obama and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) released a statement that the government should “continue efforts to strengthen the housing market by extending the home buyer tax credit.”
Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s Economy.com, who is a consultant to Democrats in the administration and Congress, is advocating extending the credit and making it available to all home buyers. Opening it up to all home buyers would really help the housing market. Although it would cost the government a lot more money to fund, it is not nearly as much as we the tax payers have given to the big banks and their CEO's. This would give money back to the people who really drive the economy, the American home buyer.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Why Are My Florida Property Taxes Going Up?

2009-08-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

The proposed property tax notices are out and if your home is Homesteaded, you may be paying more in taxes. The reason for this is the millage rate has increased and the assessed value is still lower than the market value on your home. So even though the value of your home has dropped, it has not dropped below the assessed value. For example: if the assessed value for your home last year was $200,000 and your millage rate was 19, then your tax bill was $3,800. This year, your assessed value remained at $200,000 but the millage went up to lets say 22, then this year's tax bill will be $4,400.
The reason the Taxing Authorities have raised the millage, is because the values of all the properties in Florida have gone down. Unlike most of us, when we have less money to spend we lower our budget, rather than lowering their budget, they are increasing our taxes. I guess they can't figure out that we are in a recession, income has remained level at best. The truth is that if we are lucky enough to still have a job, we have probably lost income.

Florida has legislation stating that the proper “measuring-stick” for taxing authority growth, from year to year, is the “Per Capita Income (PCI) Index + Growth” (meaning annual growth in newly constructed properties). Clearly the Taxing Authority's spending far exceeded increases in the personal income and the growth of newly constructed properties.

Our only recourse is to attend the public meetings and make our voices heard.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Will the $8000 First-Time Buyer Tax Credit be Renewed?

2009-08-24T15:06:00.000-07:00

The $8,000 First-Time Buyer Tax Credit expires Nov. 30, there are Bills pending in both the U.S. House and the Senate to extend or revise the credit.
Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid of Nevada favors an extension of the current credit. He was quoted by the Las Vegas Sun saying, "It's something we can get done."
Connecticut Democratic Senator Christopher J. Dodd, chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, is co-sponsor of a bill with Georgia Republican Senator Johnny Isakson that would raise the credit amount to a maximum of $15,000. I don't think this is going to fly, but an extension is possible.
As I have said before, a bird in the hand is worth more than two in the bush. If you are planning on buying a home and you can close before Nov. 30th, I recommend you do so. Home prices are low, interest rates are low, it is a buyers market and we don't know what our leaders in Washington are going to do for sure.
Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Chronicle of a First Time Home Buyer Chapter 6

2009-07-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

On June 23rd, Rob contacted me about see a home that was back on the market. 5308 Georgia Peach is a 4 bd 2 ba 2020 sq ft home on a lake. This is the home they saw listed that started their home search.

It had a contract on it that fell through, I talked with the listing agent and found out the bank would accept the asking price of $174,000. I wrote up a contract for $180,000 with the seller paying $6,000 towards cosing cost, before going to show the home to Rob and Tina.

Rob and Tina both really liked the home and were ready to sign the contract. We talked about the timeline that would follow after submitting the contract, and both decided they needed to check on finances before signing.

I told them I wanted them to be sure, and to take the time they needed, but homes in this price range are not sitting on the market for long. Rob said he understood that and was willing to lose the home rather than jumping in without everything in order. And the home in Bay Berry Lakes was a good backup.

5308 Georgia Peach went under contract on 7/6 and the home in Bay Berry Lakes went under contract on 7/7.

Rob and Tina have decided to postpone the search for a new home until August, when his new union contract at work will be final.

View Rob and Tina's cart click on th is link: http://dabmls.com/day/plog.php?a=day&u=runter&p=3746

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Should you wait for the $15000 Homebuyer tax credit

2009-07-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

Senator Johnny Isakson, a Georgia Republican, introduced a bill in June that would increase the homebuyers tax credit to $15,000 and remove the income restriction and expand the program to all borrowers, not just first time homebuyers.
Some of my clients have asked if they should wait for the new tax credit of $15000. First of all, no one knows if the bill introduced by Senator Isakson will ever became law. The old adage "a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" is perfect for this situation. The current tax credit has cost the government $2 to $3 billion, the proposed bill will cost around $32 billion. There is a lot of opposition to the $15000 credit so it is definitely not a sure thing.
YOU MAY NOT GET THE FULL $15000
The tax credit is based on 10% of the purchase price, so if you buy a home for less than $150,000, you will not receive the full $15000.
Unlike the current $8000 credit, it only offsets your tax liability over the next 2 years. Most first time homebuyers should take advantage of the current $8000 credit. I say this because most first time homebuyers do not have a $7500 tax liability each year and will not be able to receive the full $15000 credit. Also your tax liability will be lower after you buy a home because of your new mortgage deduction. To find your tax liability for your 2008 tax return, look on form 1040 line 61 or if you filed a 1040A it is on line 37 and line 11 on the 1040EZ. If the amount on this line is lower than $4000, you are better off taking the current $8000 credit.
If you are not a first time home buyer, and your situation allows you to put off buying a home, I recommend you wait and see what happens to this bill.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Chronicle of a First Time Home Buyer Chapter 5

2009-07-10T07:11:00.000-07:00

6/18, We went to Coquina Cove to look at a home on the resale market. 5370 Cordgrass Bend Lane-nice house but they still the one under construction better. We then went to Bay Berry Lakes and saw a single story 4 br 2 ba brick home that backs up to a preserve area, 112 Briarberry Court. Rob and Tina's comments: "great single story house, very well taken care of, also high on our list right after the CC-under-construction".

112 Briarberry Ct

From there we went back to 109 McGill Circle, one of the houses we were unable to view on our first outing. Rob and Tina's comments: "very beat up, carpet stained in almost every room and writing on a lot of the walls, one wall had a piece missing!" Finally we we went to the Oakbrook subdivision in Port Orange to see 3844 Calliope Avenue, a 2 story in foreclosure. Rob and Tina's comments: "very cool looking house on the outside, inside needs some cleaning up but nothing major, another potential"

View Rob and Tina's cart click on this link: http://dabmls.com/day/plog.php?a=day&u=runter&p=3746Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Chronicle of a First Time Home Buyer Chapter 4

2009-06-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

6/12, Cindy from D.R. Horton called to follow up on Rob and Tina. I explained that Rob was concerned that the monthly payment was at the top of the budget. I also told her that he was expecting a pay raise soon, but did not know how much it would be. Cindy suggested a 2 - 1 buy down, this is where the seller buys down the interest rate on the loan for the first 2 years. The first year the rate would be 2% below the going rate and the second year it would go up to 1% below the going rate, and finally it would lock in at the going rate for the remaining 28 years. The 2 - 1 buy down lowers the monthly payment for the first 2 year significantly.
I quickly calculated the monthly payments for all 3 interest rates and called Rob to give him the information. Rob quickly realized what a great deal they were offering, but still wanted to review their cart and make sure they saw the other homes they were interested in before they made an offer.

View Rob and Tina's cart click on this link: http://dabmls.com/day/plog.php?a=day&u=runter&p=3746

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Chronicle of a First Time Home Buyer Chapter 3

2009-06-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

On 6/11, I went to the subdivision of Coquina Cove to meet with Rob and Tina. We were meeting at 5pm so I went a little early to meet with the D. R. Horton sales rep, Cindy. I have a good relationship with both of the sales reps because I sold 4 of their homes in 2008. I wanted to see how much we would be able to get off the $209,990 price tag. Cindy told me the best she could do was $5,000 off. I was hopping for $10,000 and would still try to get it if we made an offer.
When Rob and Tina arrived, Cindy and I took them over to 5317 Coquina Shores Lane, a Redwood model. It was still under construction, with a completion date sometime in August. It is a 2347 sq ft 4 bedroom 2.5 bath 2 story home. Rob and Tina both really liked this home despite the fact that it was only to the dry wall stage in the building process. Cindy and I also took them to a completed Redwood so they would have a better idea of what it would look like when it was finished.

Their comments: "We looked at the 4-bedroom D.R. Horton house that wasn’t finished with construction; we like this house a lot but had concerns about the quality of construction based on other people’s experiences with DRH; it’s definitely high on our list anyway."

One of the great things about D.R. Horton, is that they pay the closing cost for the buyer. This is about a $7000 savings on a $200,000 home, but more importantly it is cash that the buyer does not have to come up with at closing.

Rob and Tina both wanted to see some more homes before they make an offer, just to see what else is out there. I told them that we were still early in our search, but houses in this price range are going fast and if they find something they like they should put in an offer.

View Rob and Tina's cart click on this link: http://dabmls.com/day/plog.php?a=day&u=runter&p=3746

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Chronicle of a First Time Home Buyer Chapter 2

2009-06-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

On May 26th, Rob emailed me with his request;
Bill,

The one’s we’d like to see this Thursday are 100 Gala Circle and 1124 Champions Drive. We’d like to see a couple more but we have somewhere to be later that evening and these two are close to each other. Thanks for all your help!

Rob

We had an hour so I setup 3 showings between 5 and 6pm for the 28th. The first one we went to see was 100 Boysenberry Lane, in the Bay Berry Lakes subdivision. It is a 3 bedroom 2.5 bath 1944 sq ft home built in 2006, listed for $179,900. This home is a short sale, so the owners are working with the mortgage holder to sell it for less than what is owed. Rob and Tina did not care for this home.

100 Boysenberry Lane

Next we went to see 1124 Champions Drive. This home is in the LPGA subdivision. We were unable to view this home because the lock was broken.

From 1124 Champions Drive we went to 100 Gala Circle, also in the LPGA subdivision, the owner was suppose to meet us there and let us in, however he did not show. Rob and Tina informed me they would be out of town for the next two weeks but would like to see more homes when they returned. I gave them some floor plans of some new homes built by D R Horton and told them I would like take them to see the models when they returned. Home buyers should always have a Realtor when looking at homes, even new construction, the sale person at the model is representing the builder and his interest. The buyer needs someone to represent them, always take your Realtor with you.

View Rob and Tina's cart click on this link: http://dabmls.com/day/plog.php?a=day&u=runter&p=3746

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Chronicle of a First Time Home Buyer

2009-06-18T03:26:00.000-07:00

In the next several postings, I will write about the process of working with a first time home buyer. Rob and Tina are a young couple who are tried of paying rent and want to take advantage of the first time home buyers $8000 tax credit. Rob is an Air Traffic Controller and Tina is a Pre-school Teacher. They are looking for a 3 bedroom home priced around $200,000. they are planning on using the $8000 first time home buyer tax credit for their down payment on a FHA loan. Since the FHA requires 3.5% down, the down payment for a $200,000 home is $7000. They would also like the sellers to pay the closing cost.

The first thing I did was set up a listing cart that they would have access to on the web. They will receive email updates anytime a new listing that meets their criteria becomes available. Rob and Tina can view the detail and the photos of the listings in their cart. They can also make comments for me to see or rate the listings. From their cart they can print the listings or share them with their friends and family by email. And finally they can delete the listings they are not interested in from the cart. To see their cart click on this link: http://dabmls.com/day/plog.php?a=day&u=runter&p=3746

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

CYPRESS HEAD PORT ORANGE FL

2009-06-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

Cypress Head is a great golf community. The Cypress Head golf course which was built in 1992 is owned and operated by the City of Port Orange so the community of Cypress Head has all the advantages of a golf course but none of the expense. Cypress Head has 2 bedroom 2 bath golf villas and 3 and 4 bedroom homes. Several of the homes have 2 car garages with a golf cart garage. The golf club has a restaurant and there are tennis courts and a community pool. Part of the community is gated. There are currently 20 homes on the market starting at $169,900 for a golf villa up to $449,900 for a 4 bedroom 3 bath home. The residents love this community, it is one of the best kept secrets in central Florida. It is also conveniently located close to Venetian Bay, which has another golf course and will have shopping and restaurants.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

NEW URGENT CARE CLINIC OPENS FOR PORT ORANGE & NEW SMYRNA BEACH

2009-06-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

New Smyrna Beach, Florida: Bay View urgent Care, a full-service urgent care clinic opened in New Smyrna Beach. The clinic is co-ventured by Bert Fish Medical Center and EMPros--the emergency physician group staffing the Emergency Department at Bert Fish Medical Center. Bay View Urgent Care is located at the rear entrance of Venetian Bay, at the corner of Pioneer trail and Airport Road. The upscale appointed urgent care center features six patient treatment rooms, a full laboratory and x-ray, and is staffed by board-certified family practice and emergency physicians.

"We think Bay view is ideally situated to help people living on the westside of I-95" remarked Dr. Chuck Duva, Managing Partner for the venture. "We know there are about 10,000 rooftops in New Smyrna Beach and Port Orange surrounding this facility." the plan is to relocate the clinic in a few years into the town center in Venetian Bay.

"We have already received calls from people asking how soon we will be opening." said Tara Montgomery, Clinic Manager. The clinic will be open seven days a week with hours of: Monday through Friday: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Saturday hours will be 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. No appointments are necessary; walk-in anytime. Most major insurance plans are accepted. To learn more, the public is urged to come and take a tour or call the clinic at (386) 427-0396 or visit the website at: http://www.bayviewuc.com/

Bay View Urgent Care MEDIA RELEASE

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Coquina Cove

2009-06-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Coquina Cove is located in Port Orange off of Williamson Blvd north of Dunlawton. It is convenient to shopping, the beach, and the Daytona International Speedway. There are single story and two story homes and townhomes to choose from. the single story homes start at $149,000 from the builder and are 1263 sq ft. The two story homes start at $190,000 and are 1937 sq ft. All the homes are built by DR Horton. The lots are smaller than I would like, but there are lakes and other common areas. This is a nice community and a great value for first time home buyers, especially with the USDA's 100% financing. As an added bonus DR Horton pays all closing cost on a new home purchase. Remember to call me before you go so I can help you negotiate the best price.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

First Time Homebuyers

2009-05-28T06:30:00.000-07:00

Beginning July 1, first-time homebuyers will be able to use the federal $8,000 tax credit for their downpayment. With a FHA mortgage the required downpayment is 3 1/2 %, the $8000 would be enough for a $230,000 home. First-time homebuyers will be able to apply for downpayment assistance before they close on the purchase of their home, and then repay the amount borrowed when they get their tax refund. The program will operate through local county housing administrators. Details are still being worked out, however I am sure they will have to attend a first-time homebuyers class, the class if free and can be setup by your Realtor. Please contact me if you would like assistance.
Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Oakbrook

2009-05-11T18:39:00.000-07:00

Oakbrook is nestled in a serene but convenient oak-lined setting just east of I-95 and north of Dunlawton Ave, near the Port Orange Lowes and Target. Oakbrook has walking trails, ponds and even a fishing pier to add to its pristine surroundings. This neighborhood features one and two-story homes with up to 5 bedrooms and boasts luxury appointments such as brick paver driveways and patios. There are 8 Centerline Homes floor plans to choose from.
The builder, Centerline Homes have several homes still available as well as 4 home on the resale market priced from $199,000 to $299,000. Contact Bill at 386 760 7607 to see any of theses homes, new or resale.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Pinnacle Parke

2009-05-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

Pinnacle Parke is a Gated Community, with a Community Pool and Clubhouse. This community was started in 2005, at the peak of the real estate market so there are some really good deals. Located across from Port Orange's new Cypress Creek Elementary School it is in the heart of the areas well known Golf and Country Club corridor. New homes start at $214,000 for a 3 bedroom 2 bath, 1624 sq. ft single family home. There are currently 2 homes on the resale market, both are 3 bedroom 2 bath homes, one is 1833 sq. ft listed for $239,865, and the other is 1882 sq. ft listed for $349,000. In the past 12 months, homes have sold from $200,00 to $300,000.
Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Villages of Royal Palm

2009-03-26T04:44:00.000-07:00

The Villages of Royal Palm, located in Port Orange was developed by Winston-James Development. It is not age restricted, however the maintenance-free lifestyle community is targeted towards the 55+ age group. This community features a very nice 12,000 square foot clubhouse with large banquet and social hall, Fitness center, billiard room, & meeting rooms, Full-time activities director on staff, 2 swimming pools (1 is heated) with spacious sun decks and a heated Jacuzzi, 2 tennis courts, a Putting green, horseshoes, shuffleboard, and Bocce. The clubhouse does not have a bar or restaurant, the location of the community off of Williamson Blvd is close to shopping and dinning.
There are several builder inventory homes ranging in price from $159,900 to $350,000, however the first thing they said when we walked in was "don't be afraid to make an offer".
The community has villas and single family homes, all of which are concrete block construction. The smallest homes are the 2 bedroom 2 bath villas with a 1 car garage. The largest home is the 2680 sq ft, 5 bedroom 3 bath, 2 story single family home with a 2 car garage.
The monthly maintenance fee is $288 for the villas and $318 for the single family homes. The fee includes complete lawn and shrubs maintenance, annual pressure washing of the homes, repainting the homes every 5 years, and 99 channel expanded cable TV, as well as the clubhouse, pools and tennis courts.
Right now there is a 2 bedroom villa listing on the MLS as bank owned for $55,100. I don't really believe the bank will take that little, but I think you would be able to get a great deal on this unit. There are over 20 homes on the MLS most of which are lower priced than the builder.
If you would like more information on any of these homes please contact me at 386 760 7607. Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

4 BEDROOM 2 BATH POOL HOME ON A LAKE IN WATERS EDGE, Port Orange Fl

2009-03-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

4 BEDROOM 2 BATH POOL HOME ON THE LAKE OVERLOOKING THE LIGHTED FOUNTAIN $300,000

This is it, Stop Your Search. This is the house you have been waiting for, ICI’s Westminster 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and screened-in pool overlooking the large lake with beautiful views of the fountain. This is without question the best lot in Waters Edge. The lake wraps around the back and side yard giving you maximum privacy and beauty. The landscaping has concrete curbing with River rock in the beds. Upgraded tile in the Family room, Kitchen, Breakfast nook and the Baths. New GE Appliances and Granite tile countertops in the Kitchen. Summer kitchen on the screened-in pool deck. The Master suite opens up to the pool area and has his and hers walk-in closets and sinks with a garden tub and large shower in the master bath. This is the Florida life style you have always wanted. Owner is a Realtor.

Visit one of my websites at http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Waters Edge

2009-03-01T12:48:00.000-08:00

More than just beautiful homes, Waters Edge is a family-friendly community, conveniently located off Airport Road in one of the nicest areas of Port Orange. Excellent schools and medical facilities are nearby and residents have easy access to the best that Port Orange and Daytona Beach have to offer.
Waters Edge boasts a grand entrance, stately fountains, and pristine lakes. You will also find one of the most prestigious gated neighborhoods Covendale, located within Waters Edge. Covendale is a beautiful neighborhood with estate luxury homes. Stop by today and experience the beauty of Waters Edge.

There are currently 29 homes for sale in Waters Edge ranging in price from $145,000 to $500,000; 5 of them are either a short sale or foreclosure.

Golf Club at Cypress Head is just around the corner and Airport Road Park is on the edge of this community, it features a Children's Playground, 6 lighted tennis courts, 2 outdoor basketball courts, 2 soccer fields, and Restroom facilities.

Volusia County Schools are some of the best in the state. The schools that serve this community are:

Cypress Creek Elementary School5800 Victoria Gardens Boulevard Port Orange, FL 32127 386.322.6230

Creekside Middle School 6801 Airport Rd Port Orange, FL 32128 386.322.6155

Spruce Creek High School801 Taylor Road Port Orange, FL 32127 386.322.6272

Please visit one of my websites http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/

Welcome to my Port Orange Fl Real Estate Blog

2009-02-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my Port Orange Fl Real Estate Blog, I am a Realtor and serve the Port Orange and New Smyrna Beach area. This blog will provide information on the real estate market in the city Port Orange, Florida. Port Orange is located just south of Daytona Beach and is growing very fast. I will discuss the different subdivisions; what each has to offer, the price range, and foreclosures that are currently on the market. We will also be talking about general real estate news and how it effects you the buyer or seller. I welcome your comments or questions, I may not have the answers, but I will do my best to find them.

Please visit one of my websites http://selldaytona.com/ or http://www.venetianbay.org/