Great Florida Homes Blog

Memorial Day Celebration in Coral Springs, Florida

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Sun, 20 May 2012 06:21:20 -0700

Please join the City of Coral Springs for a special Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 28 at 9 a.m.,
in honor of the brave men and women of our military who have given their lives in service to our nation.

The Ceremony will be at Veterans Park, located at 8601 Royal Palm Boulevard (just east of University Drive). For more information, call 954-345-2200.

My Mom and I have attended this ceremony over the years. It is very memorable and a great place to start your day in Coral Springs, while honoring hero's.

Joy, CRS, SFR, PMN, e-PRO
Chair, Chamber of Commerce Trustees
Sponsor Chair for the Coral Springs Festival of the Arts
Jeff Booker, Relocation Specialist
Michelle Marsh, Luxury Homes
Julie Mello, Client Care Specialist

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

Don’t Fall for Common Myths About Your Coral Springs Short Sale!

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Fri, 18 May 2012 09:25:50 -0700

The current state of the Coral Springs real estate market and economy has made the short sale process more a part of the public’s consciousness. While this is not a new process, this common alternative to foreclosure was never very well-known by people until recent years. As a Coral Springs real estate agent, I have had experience in working with those who are interested in purchasing short sale properties, or who have needed to go through the process themselves in order to avoid the pain surrounding foreclosures.

What happens when processes like these become more popular and common is that inaccurate information starts flying around. Many have heard of a short sale, but don’t know what it is and the steps involved in completing one successfully. As your Coral Springs real estate resource, I thought that I’d bust a few of the common misconceptions surrounding short sales and foreclosures.

First things first- in order to qualify for a short sale, you need the following:

1. Your house must be worth less than the amount owed on it.
2. You must be able to prove that you are suffering from financial hardship for a legitimate reason, such as pay cuts, job loss, health issues or divorce.

If you fit the criterion listed above, then you qualify for a Coral Springs short sale. Now it’s time to meet with your agent and go through the process. You may hear many myths about short sales vs. foreclosures, but take them for what they are: fiction. Here are a few of the most common tall tales told about this type of transaction:

•    If you let your home go in to foreclosure, then once the transaction is over you are done. This isn’t always true. The foreclosure process is painful and long enough, but when all is said and done, you could still end up owing the bank money. Whether it is from IRS tax liability or to make up the difference for what your property sold for at auction, you could still be held accountable for some fees.
•    There are no options to avoid foreclosure. This isn’t true, either. More homeowners than ever can qualify for a short sale, and you could always apply for a loan modification or deed in lieu of foreclosure. You should consult your Coral Springs real estate agent and discuss your options before proceeding with a foreclosure.
•    It’s too difficult to qualify and go through a short sale transaction. Now more than ever, banks would rather do a short sale than a foreclosure. They save both time and money, and they are looking to unload the looming shadow inventory. Now is the time to go through a short sale if you are in a position to qualify for one.
•    They’re uncommon. In today’s market, short sales make up between 10-50% of all transactions in some areas. Many people are going through hardship in this economy, and these types of sales are becoming more common than ever.
•    If I go through a short sale, I can’t buy a house again for a long time. The time to buy a house after going through a Coral Springs short sale depends on your entire credit picture. Typically, you can start buying again between 12-24 months if you work hard to rebuild your credit and financial standing. Some FHA loans will even allow you to buy sooner than that.

These myths are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the inaccurate information that flies around about foreclosures and short sales. As a Coral Springs real estate agent who has had experience in this market, I thought that I’d shed some light on the reality of this aspect of the industry. If you have any more questions about short sales, don’t hesitate to contact me. I’d be happy to help you in any way that I can. I hope to hear from you soon!

Joy Carter and Jeff Booker
Great Florida Homes Team
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Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

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REAL ESTATE LISTINGS AND SALES FOR BROWARD COUNTY & PALM BEACH COUNTY APRIL 2012

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Tue, 01 May 2012 14:42:32 -0700

REAL ESTATE UPDATE FOR BROWARD COUNTY & PALM BEACH COUNTY
April 2012

Broward County includes well known cities of Coconut Creek, Coral Springs, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Highland Beach, Hillsboro, Lighthouse Point, Parkland, Plantation, Sunrise, Tamarac and Weston.

For the month of April, 5084 Single Family Homes LISTED for SALE in Broward County.

2198 priced under $250,000
1431 priced between 250,001 and $500,000
509 priced between $500,001 and $750,000
296 priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
252 priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
121 priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
277 are priced over $2,000,000

For the month of April, 953 Single Family Homes SOLD in Broward County.

573 were sold under $250,000
272 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
57 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
22 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
10 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
8 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
10 were sold over $2,000,000

There are currently 6209 Multi-Family Homes LISTED FOR SALE in Broward County.

Multi-Family Homes include condos, town homes, villas, coops, all attached and or unattached as well as single story to multi levels.

4592 are priced under $250,000
962 are priced between 250,001 and $500,000
262 are priced between $500,001 and $750,000
162 are priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
120 are priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
53 are priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
58 are priced over $2,000,000

For the month of 1302 Multi-Family Homes SOLD in Broward County.

Note that many of the lower priced multifamily homes are located in Adult only communities with an over the age of 55 requirement to live there.

1131 were sold under $250,000
119 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
26 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
13 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
11were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
2 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
None were sold over $2,000,000

Palm Beach County includes well known cities of Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Greenacres, Lake Worth, Wellington and West Palm Beach.

There are currently 4905, Single Family Homes for sale in Palm Beach County.

1611 priced under $250,000
1479 priced between 250,001 and $500,000
565 priced between $500,001 and $750,000
358 priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
307 priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
176 priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
409 priced over $2,000,000

For the month of April, 810 Single Family Homes SOLD in Palm Beach county.

514 were sold under $250,000
214 are sold between 250,001 and $500,000
38 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
17 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
11 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
2 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
14 were sold over $2,000,000

There are currently 4963 Multi-Family Homes LISTED FOR SALE in Palm Beach County. Multi-Family Homes include condos, town homes, villas, coops, all attached and or unattached
as well as single story to multi levels.

3776 are priced under $250,000
681 are priced between 250,001 and $500,000
229 are priced between $500,001 and $750,000
130 are priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
64 are priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
33 are priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
50 are priced over $2,000,000

For the month of April, 864Multi-Family Homes SOLD in Palm Beach County.

765were sold under $250,000
55 are sold between 250,001 and $500,000
21 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
11 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
4 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
2 were Sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
None were sold over $2,000,000

To see specific details on a specific category of homes actively for sale or sold, please email us at Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com and we will forward the information for your reference or review.

Information deemed reliable as provided by the Realtor Association of Greater Fort Lauderdale and the Realtor Association of the Palm Beaches.

Across the board listings and sales are down EXCEPT in multi-family in Palm Beach for sale was up slightly.

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

Home Affordability Is at Its Peak in Coral Springs!

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Fri, 04 May 2012 13:48:56 -0700

Wow, what a weekend to look forward to in Coral Springs! Cinco de Mayo festivities will take place tomorrow all around town, the biggest moon of the year is tomorrow night, and home affordability has reached its peak this week in the Coral Springs real estate market!

Real estate news has been centered for a while now on home affordability. Then today, Realtor Magazine posted an article that reiterated yet again how strong home affordability is, and that the historically low mortgage rates this week added another boost to homebuyers!

According to a Freddie Mac survey, 30-year fixed mortgage rate averaged to 3.84 percent this week, which was a new historic low. The previous record was 3.87 percent in February! It’s not just 30-year rates, though. A 15-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.07 percent, another historic low! The previous record was 3.11 percent earlier this month.

Even five-year and one-year mortgages are at unprecedented lows. Last year, a five-year rate was 3.47 percent. This year, it’s averaged at 2.85 percent! The one-year rate also hit a historic low this week, set at 2.70 percent.

This is one reason why CNN Money reported this week that buying a home might never be as cheap as it is right now. That’s party because economists predict home prices will flatten out by the third quarter and start climbing by next year. This prediction is in thanks to a decrease in foreclosures and an increase in jobs.

Other real estate professionals have an even more optimistic outlook! This Trulia article says that home asking prices have already increased 1.4 percent in the first quarter of this year, compared to the last three months of 2011, and that 92 of the 100 largest metro areas have seen an increase in asking price.

This means that if you buy a home now in in Southeast Florida, by next year, the housing market will be in the process of improving and you’ll own a home worth more than what you bought it for!

Still not convinced that now is the time to buy? Aside from the fact that home affordability is at its peak right now, rent prices are also at their peak. It is much cheaper to buy a home in the Coral Springs real estate market than to rent one right now. Why waste your money away when you could buy the home of your dreams in Coral Springs?

As your Coral Springs real estate agents, it’s our job to make sure you understand the conditions of our Coral Springs real estate market right now, so you know that now is a great time to buy. It’s possibly the best time to buy, with affordability factors that we may never see again! Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Visit our website, check out our listings, read our homebuyer tips and contact us when you’re ready!

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

Salt Life is Open in Coral Springs!

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:41:51 -0700

Officially opened tonight to a welcoming crowd! Since Gold Coast Grill closed their doors recently, the regulars that met there had no place large enough to meet-up for a quick and casual - "HI! How Have You Been?"

A lively and colorful atmosphere with comfortable hi-top and bar counter seating as well as indoor and outdoor dining.

The surfer motif screams FUN and COMFORTABLE through out the place. A looped video plays on multiple screens of the AMAZING AGILITY of surfers. Leaves you feeling like you want to try it too! (Thank goodness I am smart enough to know, this is one feat, beyond my abilities ;-)

An abundance of very friendly staff! Normal names to identify the restrooms. I was expecting, WAHOO or MAHI and then worried how I would figure out which one was me?

Warm and comfortable decor! Made it through a couple of appetizers that were delicious and different than what I would have expected in a seafood themed restaurant. I heard from three different people that they were surprised that,"Conch Fritters", were not on the menu (me too), but there were lots of other good choices.

When I arrived at 5:45 the crowd was large and lively, but largly Adult. By the time I left at 8:15 the crowd was much younger and the music was much louder. I still plan to go back and try many of the things on the menu I didn't get the chance to try. I enjoyed the time I was there.

Check them out 954-340-7258, at 2260 N University Dr, Coral Springs, FL 33065, in THE WALK - just up from TD Bank and next door to Vino DeSantis (other great place to enjoy a glass of vino).

Come to The Walk in Coral Springs and enjoy some time with your friends or family!

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

ACTIVE RAIN MEET-UP in FORT LAUDERDALE AT BIMINI BOATYARD

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 06:11:41 -0700

Fort Lauderdale Rainers are lucky to have the encouraging and ever so helpful, Eileen Burns, Commercial Income Property Specialist.

She coordinates FUN meet-ups! This week we met at the iconic Bimini Boatyard in Fort Lauderdale.

Elyse Berman from Delray Beach, Scott Bagoon from Margate, Kathy Hyatt from Plantation, Eileen Burns from Hallandale and Joy Carter from Coral Springs.

It is so much fun to learn from other real estate professionals!

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS AND SALES FOR BROWARD COUNTY & PALM BEACH COUNTY

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:28:18 -0700

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS AND SALES FOR BROWARD COUNTY & PALM BEACH COUNTY
March 2012

Broward County includes well known cities of Coconut Creek, Coral Springs,
Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Highland Beach, Hillsboro, Lighthouse Point,
|Parkland, Plantation, Sunrise, Tamarac and Weston.

There are currently 5329, Single Family Homes LISTED FOR SALEin Broward County.

2362 priced under $250,000
1455 priced between 250,001 and $500,000
525 priced between $500,001 and $750,000
308 priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
265 priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
126 priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
287 priced over $2,000,000

For the month of March, 948, Single Family Homes SOLD in Broward County.

591 were sold under $250,000
244 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
66 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
17 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
14 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
6 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
10 were sold over $2,000,000

There are currently 6372, Multi-Family Homes LISTED FOR SALEin Broward County. Multi-Family Homes include condos, town homes, villas, coops, all attached and or unattached as well as single story to multi levels.

4691 are priced under $250,000
1010 are priced between 250,001 and $500,000
279 are priced between $500,001 and $750,000
168 are priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
123 are priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
48 are priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
53 are priced over $2,000,000

For the month of March, 1205 Multi-Family Homes SOLD in Broward County.

Note that many of the lower priced multi family homes are located in Adult only communities with a over the age of 55 requirment to live there.

1082 were sold under $250,000
83 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
23 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
5 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
11 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,00
None were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
1 was sold over $2,000,000

Palm Beach Countyincludes well known cities of Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Greenacres, Lake Worth, Wellington and West Palm Beach.

There are currently 5208, single family homes listed For Sale in Palm Beach County.

1791 priced under $250,000
1549 priced between 250,001 and $500,000
577 priced between $500,001 and $750,000
369 priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
318 priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
187 priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
415 priced over $2,000,000

For the month of March, 719 Single Family Homes SOLD in Palm Beach County. (Selected Cities Referenced).

473 were sold under $250,000
170 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
33 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
17 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
10 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
5 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
11 were sold over $2,000,000

There are currently 6156, Multi-Family Homes LISTED FOR SALEin Palm Beach County. Multi-Family Homes include condos, town homes, villas, coops, all attached and or unattached as well as single story to multi levels.

3992 are priced under $250,000
749 are priced between 250,001 and $500,000
240 are priced between $500,001 and $750,000
140 are priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
68 are priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
34 are priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
55 are priced over $2,000,000

For the month of Match, 878 Multi-Family Homes SOLD in Palm Beach county. (Selected Cities Referenced).

803 were sold under $250,000
46 are sold between 250,001 and $500,000
16 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
4 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
3 was sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
2 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
4 were sold over $2,000,000

To see specific details on a specific category of homes actively for sale or sold, please email us at Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com and we will forward the information for your reference or review.

Information deemed reliable as provided by the Realtor Association of Greater Fort Lauderdale
and the Realtor Association of the Palm Beaches.

Single Family Listings in Broward and Palm Beach are down slighlty and Sales are up (always a good sign for a recovery). Multi Family listings are down in Broward and up in Palm Beach over last month.
Multi-Family sales were up in both counties.

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

If you live in Coral Springs or near Coral Springs Drive - SIGN UP!

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 04:41:12 -0700

Coral Springs Drive Cleanup on Saturday, April 28

I cannot think of a better way to get our community in shape for its upcoming 50th Anniversary celebration.
I signed up! Come and Join Me!

The City is looking for volunteers to help clean up Coral Springs Drive between Riverside Drive to Atlantic Boulevard and Cypress Park to Royal Palm Boulevard. The cleanup will be held on Saturday, April 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. As part of the City's efforts to beautify Coral Springs, the City wants to pick up dead vegetation, and any trash and debris along the rear of homeowner's properties. Once the cleanup is completed, it will remain the homeowner's responsibility to maintain the property. If not maintained, the City's Code Enforcement Division may site property owners. Students will receive service hours for participating. Middle school students will need to be accompanied by a parent. Anyone interested in volunteering must email cleanup@coralsprings.org or leave a message at 954-340-5020. Participants will be contacted with instructions on completing a volunteer application and waiver form and given information on where to meet the day of the cleanup. Volunteers may also register from 8:15 to 9 a.m. the morning of the event. Coral Springs Drive clean up applications can be found at: http://www.coralsprings.org/volunteer/CSDriveCleanUpApplication.pdf

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

Coral Springs Chamber of Commerce Music of the Night Awards Gala

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 07:01:50 -0700

Get out your long gown and dust off those dancing shoes! Join local business leaders as they celebrate success!

Honors will be given to the 2012 graduates of the Leadership of Coral Springs class, Small, Rookie and Veteran Business leaders as well as the coveted (of which I had the honor of winning in 2008) , Covered Bridge award.

WOW What a privilege that was!

The event offers up so many amazing individuals that contribute to the Leadership and economic vibrancy of the community of Coral Springs and beyond.

A fun evening, with awards, music and dancing to be enjoyed. Fabulous auction items as well!

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

City of Coral Springs Selects New Chief of Police

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 07:14:37 -0700

After completion of a nationwide recruitment search, City Manager Erdal Donmez has announced the appointment of Deputy Police Chief Tony Pustizzi as the City's new Chief of Police.

The City began a national search to replace outgoing Police Chief Duncan Foster who retired in 2012, after 27 years of service. During this highly competitive process, over 150 candidates, many with top positions in local, national and federal organizations throughout the country, applied for the position. Through this recruitment process, Chief Pustizzi demonstrated a winning combination of experience and leadership skills that confirmed his choice as the best candidate for the position.

Chief Pustizzi has served 23 years with the Coral Springs Police Department. He began his career in 1988 and served as a patrol officer until 1993, at which time he transferred to the Criminal Investigations Unit as a detective. Chief Pustizzi was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 1995 and to the rank of captain in 2002, where he served as the Criminal Investigations Unit Commander. In 2005, he was promoted to Deputy Chief of Police, overseeing the Operations Division. From 2007-2010, Chief Pustizzi headed up the Administration Division and from 2010-2012, Chief Pustizzi moved back to the Operations Division.

"After an exhaustive national search, I have concluded that Tony Pustizzi is the best person to lead the Coral Springs Police Department into the future. Deputy Chief Pustizzi is a proven leader with 23 years of dedicated public service, Donmez said, I know him as a man of integrity and I'm looking forward to working with him."

I can proudly say that the new chief is admired in his department (by the people I know) and he is a pleasure to work with, from my personal experience. I am looking forward to his leadership in the city of Coral Springs.

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

Don’t Let Emotions Guide You During Your Coral Springs Real Estate Transaction

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 15:17:02 -0700

Throughout our years of experience as Coral Springs real estate agents, we have worked with many different kinds of home sellers. If there is one thing that we have learned, it’s that it is nearly impossible to completely eliminate emotions while you are listing, showing and closing on your home. The decision to sell is a big one, and there are also many years of memories and love put in to your home. It’s only natural, then, that you would feel a lot of emotions during the selling process. The key is not to let the emotions guide your decisions too strongly.

Many Coral Springs home sellers make the mistake of becoming overly emotional during the process, and that can result in aggravation and irritation. Your home could sit on the market for a long time, and you could miss out on fair offers because you’re seen as being “overly difficult”. As your Coral Springs real estate resource, we feel that it’s important to forewarn sellers to tread lightly in the emotion department. Stick to your guns, but do so in a way that makes sense. In other words, avoid some of the mistakes listed below, all of which are caused by letting your emotions do the decision-making for you.

Overpricing. It’s not abnormal for a seller to believe that their home is worth more than the current market conditions suggest, but overpricing your home is one of the biggest mistakes that you can make. Overpricing will only force you to lower the price down the line, making your property sit on the market longer and turning off buyers who may have been initially interested in making an offer. Pricing a home is an art form. You have to do it correctly from the get-go.

Attending a showing. Many feel the need to attend their home’s showings to speak with potential buyers and point out a home’s best features. Having a seller present, however, can make buyers uncomfortable. They don’t feel that they can express their opinion of the home freely, and it stifles their showing experience. As tempting as it is, and as much as you want to be there, it’s best to steer clear and let buyers decide for themselves.

Rejecting early offers. Some home sellers feel that if they reject the first few offers they get, even if they’re great ones, then they will find something better down the line. This isn’t a great approach to take. Remember: the longer a property sits on the market, the less desirable it will be to home buyers. Waiting for the perfect offer is counterproductive because while you think the values will go up, they will actually go down, due to time on the market.

Taking offers personally. During negotiations, one of the biggest mistakes that you can make is letting your emotions get the best of you. Buyers will point out every flaw of your home, and you will be hearing some criticism. Taking things personally can result in a deal gone wrong. Try and emotionally detach yourself from the property as soon as possible.

As your Coral Springs real estate agents, we always forewarn our seller-clients about getting overemotional throughout the transaction. It can create a more stressful and lengthy process, and you won’t be as satisfied in the end.

If you need any help with listing and selling your Coral Springs home, don’t hesitate to contact us! We hope to hear from you soon!

Joy Carter and Jeff Booker
Great Florida Homes Team
View Our Website
View Palm Beach County and Broward County Homes
Contact Us
Find Us on Facebook
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Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

From Business to AMAZING - The Coral Springs Festival of the Arts!!

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:52:41 -0700

Pretty sure I am going to wish that I wrote this BEFORE this Fantastic event...rather than after.

The problem is I am BEYOND busy trying to coordinate this event and trying to run my brothers and mine successful real estate business.

I did want to share my thoughts and FAVORITES for the 8th Annual Coral Springs Festival of the Arts event.

The 1st year for the Art Festival I started as a salesperson in the merchandise tent (Go Figure?!?) Next year was a repeat performance. The following year I had to be away for the Prudential real estate convention n San Diego (that was fun too probably because I traveled with my brother and we stayed in a haunted hotel (another story)!

Fourth year, Volunteer again, but coincided with my winning a TOP COMMUNITY AWARD for Volunterism and Leadership for the city of Coral Springs - (The Covered Bridge Award)...NOTE: The covered bridge is the symbolic symbol for the city of Coral Springs, because originally it was the entrance to the city of Coral Springs.

2012 AWARD WINNING SIGNATURE ART PIECE

Not really sure I wanted to sign up as the sponsor chair for the Art Festival because I have NO CLUE what Good Art is outside of the , "PRETTY COLORS".

Here we are 3 years into the event and 8 years later of Festival!!!

All I can tell you, I am one lucky gal to be able to work closely with an INCREDIBLE Group of AMAZING Volunteers and Professionals, that I could not be any prouder to be associated with!

So lets move onto the FUN for me of this years festival.....

I put in what feels like 40 plus miles on my feet for the two days..walking back and forth to make sure all is coordinated and everyone is happy. (This certainly does not always go as planned, but EVERYTHING CAN BE FIXED).

After logging all of these miles, I am full of observations and complaints to make the event, "EVEN BETTER. Skipping the negative - you just have to hear he funny comments that I hear while walking in the crowd...

One family that had just left a Chiropractors booth, and the child loudly stated, "YOU ARE NOT REMOVING MY SPINE!".....Pretty sure SOMETHING Got lost in the translation there at that booth..

There is an annual event called, "Pawcasso" where dogs are encouraged to walk through wet paint and then Paw Paint their results. When done they walk their feet through a large bucket tray to rinse off (the kind that restaurants pick up for dirty dishes).

One of the many times I arrived - I saw a 120 pound Bull Mastif, who had, HAD ENOUGH, but He Knew where plesure was on a hot spring day in Florida!

Every size of dog imaginable participates in this event! Here is the picture I caught

Can you blame the dog?!?! It was hot out for a spring day!

OVERALL - Another G R E A T Festival and certainly one that I WAS SO HAPPY TO BE A PART OF!!!

Hope I'll see you there next year! Remember the FREE Parking at the Center for the Arts and ride the breezy trolley over to the Art Festival!

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

Who Are the First Time Homebuyers in Broward County?

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:29:22 -0700

The decision to buy a home is far from a simple one. Particularly since the market has been volatile, many first-time home buyers in the Broward County area are hesitant to take the plunge. As we discussed in our previous blog post, the improving economy, mortgage rates and market conditions are ideal for buyers right now. Given that the market will soon start to benefit sellers more than it has been over the past several months, now would be the time to start your search for the perfect home in Coral Springs, Boynton Beach, or any of the other communities in the area.

Despite the favorable market, buying a home is one of the biggest transactions you will ever make in your life, and you need to be sure that you’re ready for it. One tactic that might help you work through the decision-making process is to look at the demographics of other first time homebuyers in the nation. You can ask yourself, "Who else is buying a home for the first time right now? Is my criterion similar to theirs?" Keep in mind that home prices differ by area, so the national stats may be above or below what your community requires, but it’s still beneficial to get an idea of what kinds of people make up the “first time homebuyer” demographic nationwide. You’ll find that while there is a “majority” for many of the demographics, there is no one percentage that clearly stands out. This will show that many people are eligible to buy a home, and when you meet with your Coral Springs or Boynton Beach real estate agents, you can discuss your budget and lifestyle in relation with these numbers and figure out the best course of action for your needs individually.

KCM Blog, a news site that keeps us all updated on the state of the housing market nationwide, recently published an infographic about what demographics today’s “first-time homebuyers” fall into. Here is what the data finds:

•    In the past ten years, first-time homebuyers have made up over 25% of the market but fewer than 50%. This shows a sense of hesitation of home buyers to enter the market, but it also demonstrates that the low median home prices for many areas have kept first time homebuyer activity relatively active.
•    Over 50% of first-time homebuyers are in the 25-34 age range.
•    54% of first-time homebuyers are from a household with a married couple.
•    About 64% of first-time homebuyers have no children.
•    13% of first-time homebuyers on the market have an income of $40K or higher.

While you don’t have to fit ALL of these criteria to be a first-time homebuyer, it should demonstrate that many people are entering the real estate market at a young age and with an average household income. As your Coral Springs real estate agents, we share these demographics with you to assure you that you don’t need to have the perfect domestic or financial situation to enter the housing market. You can work with the right professionals to find the property that best fits your lifestyle and budget. If there’s one thing that these numbers suggest, it’s that there is no “vast majority” of one particular type of demographic that enters the housing market.

If you have any questions about how to best begin your Broward County home search, don’t hesitate to contact us! We’d love to help you find the property that will best fit your needs. We hope to hear from you soon!

Joy Carter and Jeff Booker
Great Florida Homes Team
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Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

Our Advice? Now is a Great Time to Buy a Home in Coral Springs!

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 13:09:59 -0800

The most recent statistics from Case-Shiller, the National Association of REALTORS and Fannie Mae all suggest one thing, and that’s the cautious optimism that is emerging from home buyers across the country. The Coral Springs real estate market is no exception. Pending home sales were higher in January than they have been in years, which suggests more buyer activity and more confidence in home ownership. As Coral Springs real estate agents, we aim to be 100% honest with our clients about when is the best time to buy or sell a home. With the spring market approaching quickly and home buyer confidence on the rise, we feel that now is a fantastic time to buy a home in Coral Springs, FL.

Current economic conditions are incredibly favorable for Coral Springs home buyers. As your premier resource for everything Coral Springs real estate, we thought that we’d outline a few reasons why you shouldn’t wait to begin your home search.

Mortgage rates are at an all-time low. It seems that ever since the year began, mortgage rates have been decreasing and reaching record lows. This is great news for home buyers! Now, more people who have had trouble affording a home in the past are able to obtain financing for a manageable rate. A larger number of people can obtain the American dream of home ownership than ever before.

Home prices are on the decline. Sure, this is very frustrating for sellers; however if you’re a buyer, this is just another reason to start your home search sooner. National home prices are still very low, despite the rise in buyer activity throughout the nation. With the number of people who are starting their home search steadily increasing, home prices will start to go back up, eventually. Now would be the time to ensure that you close the deal while prices are low.

The inventory available is getting steadily smaller. A smaller housing inventory means a declining amount of houses for buyers to look at, meaning that prices will go up and more offers will be made on a decreasing number of homes. Before the inventory starts significantly shrinking, as it looks like it may in the near future, it would be wise to start your home search sooner rather than later. Buyers are just now starting to express a healthier optimism in the current real estate market, so starting the buying process early-on will allow you to get a home while prices and rates are still low.

As your Coral Springs real estate agents, we feel that it’s incredibly important that we advise our clients honestly about when the best time is to enter the real estate market. The most recent market statistics show that right now, home buyers should strongly consider beginning their Coral Springs home search this spring. The national economy is steadily improving, and home buyers are starting to feel confident enough to take the plunge and invest in a home. The market is advantageous for buyers, and we feel that anyone who was on the fence about buying over the past few years should really take the opportunity to do so now.

If you have any questions about buying a home on the Coral Springs real estate market, don’t hesitate to contact us! We’d be happy to steer you in the right direction. We hope to hear from you soon!

Joy Carter and Jeff Booker
Great Florida Homes Team
View Our Website
View Palm Beach County and Broward County Homes
Contact Us
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Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!

REAL ESTATE UPDATE FOR BROWARD COUNTY & PALM BEACH COUNTY - February 2012

Joy Carter & Jeff Booker Brother and Sister Team (Prudential Florida Realty) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:13:01 -0800

REAL ESTATE UPDATE FOR BROWARD COUNTY & PALM BEACH COUNTY
February 2012

There are currently 5635,Single Family Homes LISTED FOR SALEin Broward County.

2592 priced under $250,000
1527 priced between 250,001 and $500,000
528 priced between $500,001 and $750,000
312 priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
262 priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
117 priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
296 priced over $2,000,000

For the month of February, 713,Single Family Homes SOLD in Broward County.

452 were sold under $250,000
186 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
41 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
17 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
11 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
4 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
2 were sold over $2,000,000

There are currently 6685, Multi-Family Homes LISTED FOR SALEin Broward County. Multi-Family Homes include condos, town homes, villas, coops, all attached and or unattached as well as single story to multi levels.

1790 are priced under $250,000
1068 are priced between 250,001 and $500,000
292 are priced between $500,001 and $750,000
164 are priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
120 are priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
56 are priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
54 are priced over $2,000,000

For the month of February, 1120 Multi-Family Homes SOLD in Broward County.

Note that many of the lower priced multifamily homes are located in Adult only communities with a over the age of 55 requirement to live there.

1015were sold under $250,000
76 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
16 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
8 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
5 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,00
4 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
None were sold over $2,000,000

Palm Beach Countyincludes well known cities of Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Greenacres, Lake Worth, Wellington and West Palm Beach.

There are currently 5449, single family homes listed For Sale in Palm Beach County.

1964 priced under $250,000
1576 priced between 250,001 and $500,000
585 priced between $500,001 and $750,000
374 priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
374 priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
191 priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
432 priced over $2,000,000

For the month of February, 684 Single Family Homes SOLD in Palm Beach County. (Selected Cities Referenced).

481 were sold under $250,000
143 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
27 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
12 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
10 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
5 were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
6 were sold over $2,000,000

There are currently 5445, Multi-Family Homes LISTED FOR SALEin Palm Beach County. Multi-Family Homes include condos, town homes, villas, coops, all attached and or unattached as well as single story to multi levels.

4129 are priced under $250,000
777 are priced between 250,001 and $500,000
241 are priced between $500,001 and $750,000
139 are priced between $750,001 and $1,000,000
70 are priced between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
33 are priced between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
66 are priced over $2,000,000

For the month of February, 769 Multi-Family Homes SOLD in Palm Beach county. (Selected Cities Referenced).

706 were sold under $250,000
43 were sold between 250,001 and $500,000
12 were sold between $500,001 and $750,000
4 were sold between $750,001 and $1,000,000
3 were sold between $1,000,001 and $1,500,000
None were sold between $1,500,001 and $2,000,000
One was sold over $2,000,000

To see specific details on a specific category of homes actively for sale or sold,
please email us at Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com and we will forward the
information for your reference or review.

Information deemed reliable as provided by the Realtor Association of Greater Fort Lauderdale
and the Realtor Association of the Palm Beaches.

In summary - Listings and Sales were down in both counties, with the exception of Multi Family Sold in Broward, sales were up quite a bit. Single Family Sold in Palm Beach was up a bit as well as the Listings for Multi - Family Homes. On a personal note, our business has increased dramatically. We have average over a million in sales for January and February, whereas the same time period last year was just a couple of Hundred thousand in sales.

Prudential Florida Realty - Coral Springs, Florida

954-369-0253 Office 954-755-0384 Fax

Team@GreatFloridaHomes.com

www.GreatFloridaHomes.com

TRUST YOUR FAMILY'S MOVE TO OUR FAMILY'S EXPERTISE!