2008 Housing Market

Q. What are your thoughts on the 2008 Jacksonville housing market? 

A.  I must be asked that question on a daily basis.  Keeping in mind that real estate is a local issue, all indicators are pointing to a better year for Northeast Florida’s real estate market.  In fact, I was encouraged to read in the December 25^th edition of Fortune magazine that “the southeast housing market looks healthy for the region, which may boast 12 of the 20 hottest markets for 2008”. 
Jacksonville was ranked 25 on a regional level and 52 on a national level.  How refreshing it was to read some positive press about
Jacksonville!  The Realtors have been saying all along that our market is not as bad as the press is making it seem, and now a national publication agrees.  What a great way to ring in 2008!  Happy New Year!

Family Member or Professional?

Q.  We are planning to sell our home in a few months.  My aunt is Realtor in Daytona and said she can put us in the MLS at no charge, but my wife wants to hire a local Realtor.  What do you think we should do?

A.  I’m sure your aunt is only trying to help her nephew, but in this ever changing market you need more than just the MLS to sell a house.  Ask yourself these questions.  Does your aunt know our market?  Who is going to show your home?  What marketing will she do?  Will you cooperate and compensate a Realtor if they bring a buyer to your home?  How familiar is your aunt with our NEFAR policies, procedures, contracts, and addenda?  I would recommend you interview three local Realtors who specialize in your community and then decide what approach is best for your situation.  If you need the names of Realtors who handle your area, please contact me.

Getting Your Home Ready For Sale

Q.    I’m getting ready to sell my home in the Spring.  What can I do now to prepare?

A.  Just remember the first rules of dating…look good and smell good!  This basic premise applies to real estate as well!  With an increased level of inventory, houses need to look good both inside and out.  We’ve all heard of curb appeal, but don’t forget about the inside.  Once buyers come through the door, their experience should be memorable…not nightmarish!  Aside from the basics of de-cluttering, fresh paint and carpet, some suggestions for getting your house ready for sale include giving it a thorough cleaning, and I mean thorough!  Think spring cleaning on steroids!  And yes, this includes windows, closets and baseboards!  Need the name of a good cleaning company?  Check out www.2ladiesandamop.com.   

$1000 Gift Card

Q.  I saw your promotion for a $1000 gift card to buyers or sellers at last week’s Home Buyer expo at UNF.  What’s the catch?

A.  No catch.  Quite frankly I have some very motivated sellers who want to sell now.  In addition to very attractive asking prices, I have a healthy inventory of homes and condos that I need to move now.  I have asked my sellers to reduce their prices to remain competitive and I think it’s only fair that I help as well.  In fact, I just reduced two lakefront properties in Ponte Vedra.  A beautiful custom home on almost an acre in St. Johns Plantation for $625,000 and an updated condo in Ocean Grove for $179,900.  The card must be used towards property that I have listed, or property in which I am acting as a buyer’s agent.  Just call or email me and I will get your $1000 gift card out to you in the mail.