SI Real Estate Tampa and The Beaches

If the time is now, consider Tampa, Florida for your next luxury real estate purchase. Wealthy borrowers with real estate mortgages that exceed $1 million are foreclosing or turning to short sales at almost double the average U.S. rate. Payments on about 12% of mortgages exceeding $1 million were 90 days or more overdue in September, compared with 6.3% on loans less than $250,000 and 7.4% on all U.S. mortgages, according to data from First American CoreLogic Inc., a Santa Ana, Calif.-based research firm. Many home buyers are taking advantage of the current prices on these “McMansions” that will already have instant equity in them at the time of closing. Atlanta Falcons’ linebacker, Porter Michael Peterson recently purchased a mansion near Tampa, Florida for $1.1 million – That is almost half of what the sellers paid for it 3 years earlier! Before you try to find your dream home, keep a few things in mind: Know your budget and pre-qualify with a lender…Can you really affor...

Tampa’s real estate recovery has surely been underway in 2009, with changes in the housing market taking place throughout the Bay area. Appropriately priced Tampa homes spent fewer days on the market this year, banked owned property inventory saw depletion, and new home starts began to increase in mid-2009. The first-time home buyer tax credit gave way to significant results in the Tampa real estate market, with home sales soaring during the last few months leading up to its anticipated expiration date. Multiple offers were placed on discounted properties as many first-time home buyers hurried to take advantage of unprecedented deals. The Internal Revenue Services reported that more than 105,000 Floridians had applied for the credit prior to its extension. This positive rise in real estate market activity was not restricted to the Tampa Bay area in 2009. The St. Petersburg Times reported in November that all 19 Florida metro areas reported year-over-year gains in home sales. Tampa, bei...

With economic and housing market stabilization underway in many metropolitan areas, investors are becoming increasingly interested in the real estate market again. The abundance of available housing at rock bottom prices makes this an appealing time to boost property holdings. Markets such as the Tampa Bay area have seen an increase of both seasoned and new real estate investors interested in taking advantage of our developing city. If you are considering a real estate investment, there are many details you will need to take into account. Here are a few tips to help in your property investment decision: Weigh the rewards and risks –Investing in real estate carries great potential for wealth. However, such opportunities rarely come without making difficult decisions. Before investing, consider your options. Are you qualified to handle evictions, time management, repairs, reinvesting into the property, and keeping up with documentations and inspections on your own? If the demand seems t...

USA Today recently released an article naming the “ Destinations to watch in 2010 ”, and guess which booming metropolitan hub made the list? With its vastly expanding cultural and entertainment offerings, thriving business environment, swiftly stabilizing real estate market and its well-connected location to the rest of the U.S., 2010 is expected to be a banner year in Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay has continued to grow towards being one of Florida’s top business and leisure destinations, while gaining significant recognition on both national and international levels. New developments slotted for the bustling city in 2010 include the addition of Busch Garden’s newest theme park, the opening of a new children’s museum, and the finalization of the Tampa Museum of Art’s newest downtown facility, providing visitors with even more reasons to explore the Bay area. Foreign and national real estate investors are taking note in Tampa’s bright economic future as they search for the best buys in the Bay a...

Individuals with more than $800,000 to invest are poised to increase their property holdings, with real estate investments among wealthy individuals set to rise to 30 percent over the next few years, according to a survey covered by Bloomberg report. This recent global survey was conducted by the major global financial services provider Barclays and revealed several interesting statics regarding international real estate investing in the current market conditions. Investors foresee better long-term returns on property investments than from bonds and stocks. Three out of four investors surveyed said that residential real estate is looking attractive and two thirds of investors are interested in exploring commercial real estate investments, according to the study’s findings. The survey showed that the U.S. was the most attractive real estate market for investors outside their home country, with many investors believing that it is the country with the highest potential for return on inv...

Tampa Bay home sales had their best October in four years! According to recent data from the Florida Association of Realtors real estate sales in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando counties totaled 2,758 in October, the month’s highest sales number since October 2005. This excellent progress in the Tampa Bay real estate market is largely attributed to first-time buyers purchasing sharply discounted homes while taking advantage of the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit. However, this positive rise was not restricted to the Tampa Bay area. According to an article from the St. Petersburg Times , all 19 Florida metro areas reported year-over-year gains in home sales. This greater number of home buyers was also seen nationally with interest and activity increasing throughout the country. Foreclosure and pre-foreclosure homes made up close to half of all sales in October. In addition to the activity from the first-time home buyers, Florida has also seen a great deal of recent...

Over the past few weeks many news sources have released predictions for strong real estate stabilization in 2010. A recent article from NuWire credited the expansion and extension of the first time home buyer tax credit for the predicted stabilization and home sales increase. According to NuWire recent article, “ Home Sales to Increase in 2010 ”: "After more than a three year downturn in the hardest hit areas of the nation, some markets have experienced slight rebounds, prompted by the first time buyers' tax incentive and low mortgage rates. But higher price ranges have been hindered in their recovery. However, momentum should gain strength in the second half of the year with expected improvements in mortgage lending and make strides towards stabilizing in 2010. A series of interest rate cuts taking mortgage rates to near historic lows are one of the Fed's attempts to re-stimulate the housing market. But record foreclosures are producing a market that threatens to keep ho...

“Home sales will increase 15 percent to about 5.7 million units in 2010” stated the National Association of Realtors Chief Economist Lawrence Yun late last week during the 2009 NAR Conference and Expo. Yun credits the popular first-time home buyer tax credit for the surge of home sales in the market, with the expectation that the extension to the program will continue to drive an increase in real estate sales. NAR reported that this year’s first-time home buyer tax credit brought 400,000 first-time buyers into the national real estate market who may not have purchased a home otherwise. The incentive was successful in driving home sales throughout the U.S. The influx of buyers tightened the inventory of starter homes and helped reduce the fear shared by many current homeowners and sellers of continued price drops. According to the NAR, this positive cycle is expected to continue into 2010 with the extension and expansion of the tax credit, which includes a new credit for repeat buyers...

Recently listed by SI Real Estate Investments , this beautifully remodeled 4BR/2BA St. Petersburg home with attached garage will not last long. The single family home is situated on a large corner lot and has been fully renovated to include spectacular upgrades such as hard wood floors throughout, fresh interior paint, designer lighting and ceiling fans, and newly installed roof. The upgrades in the kitchen of this St. Petersburg home are spectacular. With brand new 42” cabinets, new countertops, new ceramic tile flooring, and high-end stainless steel appliances, this spacious gourmet kitchen is a dream. Attention was paid to every detail in order to make this home shine. Additional home features include formal living room, family room, open floor plan, ample closets throughout, master suite with walk-in closet and attached private mater bathroom, covered patio, fenced backyard and mature landscaping. There is also an area in the back of the home with additional parking room for a boat...

Congress announced yesterday that the first-time home buyer tax credit, originally set to expire at the end of this month, will be extended through June of 2010. In addition to an extension, the bill includes a $6,500 credit for “move-up” buyers interested in purchasing a new primary residence. The first-time home buyer tax credit has shown significant results in the Tampa Bay real estate market, with home sales soaring over the last three months. The Internal Revenue Services reported that more than 105,000 Floridians have applied for the credit so far. Now, under the new bill, an even larger base of potential buyers will be able to benefit and take advantage of the program. The new plan is designed to spark interest in the “move-up” market, with these potential home buyers previous excluded for tax credit program. This additional incentive is designed to make real estate purchases even more desirable for qualified repeat buyers. The tax credit, along with affordable home prices and ...

The U.S. Congress is currently discussing an extension and expansion to the $8,000 tax credit for first-time home buyers in a bill which has been instrumental in breathing life into the U.S. real estate market. With a decision expected to be made this week, Tampa builders, Tampa buyers and Tampa real estate professionals are all anxiously awaiting the good news that is expected to continue the positive momentum in the housing market movement. With the current tax credit expiring on November 30th of 2009, this extension would give buyers until mid-2010 to close on a new home. In addition to the extension, an additional credit of $6,500 would be created for move-up buyers who are searching for a new primary residence. The National Association of Home Builders expects that the extended and expanded home buyer tax credit will generate 180,000 additional sales, bring in $5 billion in federal taxes and create 211,000 new jobs. Home builders, who have recently been seeing progress in the mar...

This spacious three bedroom three bathroom single family home is located in the desirable neighborhood of Woodridge Estates in Clearwater, Florida. Situated on a large corner lot, the single story home features beautiful details and upgrades throughout including new custom oak cabinetry in the kitchen, ceramic tile and new bamboo flooring, and French doors that open to a separate den. The foyer opens to the large living room and formal dining room. The spacious kitchen has been upgraded with all new appliances, sparing no detail whatsoever. Accessible from the kitchen is an additional large dining room with built-in computer niche and back yard access. New home owners will love this fresh and updated house. A hall leads to a full the beautiful master suite with large closet and attached bathroom. The two guest bedrooms are also furnished with large closets and bamboo flooring throughout. A fully functioning laundry room is located off of the two car garage and features full-sized wash...

Economists Annouce that the Three-Year Housing Slump is Coming to an End The positive real estate and economic recovery news is hard to ignore these days. Although there may still be some mixed signals, overall economy and real estate trends look encouraging. Some of the most recent upbeat news this week was from one of the country's top group of forecasters. The National Association of Business Economists declared that the 22 month recession is finally over! After its latest survey of members, the NABE stated "The good news is that the deep and long recession appears to be over, and with improving credit markets, the U.S. economy can return to solid growth next year without worrying about inflation." The association also said that the three-year downturn in the housing market appears close to an end. As reported by BusinessWeek , more than 80 percent of economists believe the recession is over and an expansion has begun, though it is expected that the recovery will be s...

The deadline is quickly approaching for potential home buyers to complete their first-time home purchases in order to qualify for the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit . Buyers who are eager to take advantage of this government incentive have until November 30th to reach a successful closing on their new home. The average home buying process typically takes 30 to 45 days from the contract date to closing. During that time, inspections must be conducted, the mortgage company must complete an appraisal and all financial documents are required. In order to meet the looming deadline for the tax credit, a home needs to be under contract not much later than October 25th in order to ensure enough time for the mortgage closing process. It's important for people to recognize that the sooner they act, the better. Many first time buyers may not fully understand the time it takes to finalize all the elements of the buying process. In order to avoid additional complications that may slow ...

The housing inventory is moving quickly in the Tampa Bay area, a definite change from previous months. Buyers who are looking for rock bottom prices are finding their search to be more difficult than originally expected. Multiple offers, fewer days on the market, and a rise in home sale prices are all evidence of this new market shift in the Tampa Bay area real estate market. For example, three months ago the Mid-Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service reported over 600 bank-owned properties in Tampa Bay. This number has now been reduced to fewer than 370, as the inventory continues to be quickly absorbed. In 2008 we were looking at a vastly different real estate inventory with a much higher number of bank-owned and short sale homes in Tampa, giving buyers a wide selection to choose from. In our current condition, buyers who are looking for a “best buy” need to be ready to act fast. With multiple offers being placed on low-priced real estate, sellers are now receiving offers at even ...

The backlog of foreclosed homes hitting the market is slowing the housing recovery in Florida. However, the Sunshine State is still proving its resilience with improving home sales for more than a year and is starting to show signs of a steady stabilization. Tampa area home sales are rising as the inventory of foreclosures is being absorbed by new home owners and those seeking vacation homes in the Florida sunshine. But the pattern of sales has been erratic with some months recording higher sales only to decline the next. The $8,000 federal tax credit for first-time buyers is helping to move the real estate inventory in the Tampa Bay area. There is clearly a sense of urgency and buyers are acting now and purchasing their dream homes. A large portion of sales are foreclosed properties and new construction that bankers and builders are slashing the prices on to move the inventory before more foreclosures and distressed properties hit the market. The sooner Tampa’s low priced properties a...

Can you imagine waking up each morning to a majestic view of the sparkling Gulf of Mexico waters? This all-inclusive resort condo community in Dunedin, Florida provides a perfect waterfront retreat. Situated directly on the Gulf, panoramic waterfront views overlook the St. Josephs Sound and Honeymoon Island, creating a tranquil setting that is far from the ordinary. Condo and community features include: · Fully furnished, all-inclusive studio, one and two bedroom units · Flat panel TV’s, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops · Two waterfront heated swimming pools and hot tub · Fully-equipped fitness center and bicycle rentals · Onsite property management and housekeeping · Boat slips · All utilities included in HOA fees · Castaway Tiki Bar onsite with weekly entertainment Beso Del Sol Resort offers three wonderful floor plans to choose from with prices starting in the mid $100,000’s. Whether you are looking for a real estate investment, weekend retreat, vacation property...

Buying a home is one of the most important financial decisions most people make, yet many give little thought to finding the real estate agent best suited to their needs. The process of purchasing a new home is much more involved than simply cruising open houses, “for sale” ads, or have someone simple unlock doors for you. Buying real estate can quite be complicated so it is essential to have the right professionals on your side. With so much at stake, working with a skilled real estate agent can help ensure that you find the right property for you at the right price. So how do you choose the right real estate agent for you? Here are a few helpful hints: Interview potential Realtors from different agencies and consider their qualifications. How competent are they? How compatible are you together? There’s no underestimating the importance of both when choosing a real estate agent. Do they know the neighborhood? Is the agent familiar with the housing market and values in the cities and ...

This beautiful and centrally located 3BR/2BA single family house has been fully renovated, with an extreme make-over inside and out. Attention has been paid to every detail in this large and spacious home. From the kitchen, to the flooring, to the bathrooms, to the roof, everything is fresh and new. New homeowners will enjoy upgraded kitchen cabinetry, countertops, tile backsplash and flooring, as well as the wide range of new appliances including refrigerator, microwave, range, dishwasher, disposal, washer and dryer. Both bathrooms have been have also been fully upgraded; now featuring new sinks, vanities, bathtubs, faucets, and toilets. New carpeting and ceramic tile flooring has been installed through out the house. French doors open to a large fenced backyard has been well maintained and beautifully landscaped. Mature trees surround the house, creating natural shade and privacy, a great place to escape the Florida heat while enjoying summer days outside. This home is conveniently ...

Many benefits come with the purchase of your home, such as having a place of your own, having stable housing costs, having a sound investment, having a financial stepping stone and even having access to tax benefits. There are important criteria that should be considered when buying a home, regardless if you are a first-time home buyer , second home buyers or real estate investor. Knowing the home buying process will help make your experience a smooth and pleasurable one. Set the stage for an easier home buying process. 1. Find professionals you can trust. - Ask questions and express your concerns up front. - Learn what to expect — and what will be expected of you. - The right people will walk you through, talk you through — and see you through! 2. Start with getting pre-approved. - Loan pre-approval gives you a rough estimate of how much you may be able to borrow. The process will help you figure out how much you can afford. 3. Determine the right financing for you. - There are many l...

Excellent news - the U.S. real estate market is rebounding faster than expected. For the first time in five years, existing home sales have increased for four consecutive months., the National Association of Realtors announced today. Existing home sales, including single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and co-ops rose 7.2 percent to a total if 5.34 million in July. An NAR survey showed that 30 percent of the homes purchased in July were by first-time home buyers, as buyers have started to come off the fence to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit. The National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index reached 18 this month, its highest level since June 2008. The numbers show that confidence among home builders is continuing on a steady rise. This increase can be contributed to buyers taking advantage of the dramatically discounted home prices, with nationwide housing affordability continuing to hover near its highest level in more than 18 year and the $8,000 ...

This week's featured property is a centrally located and newly updated, charming West Tampa home. The two bedroom house for sale located at 2710 W. LaSalle features new interior and exterior paint, upgraded cabinets and all new kitchen appliances including range and hood, refrigerator, and dishwasher, as well as a washer and dryer, new window treatments, baseboards, molding and new tile flooring. The bathroom has also been updated to include new grout, fixtures and flooring. The remodeling of this home was well thought out, aimed at preserving its pleasant qualities while adding modern luxuries. We absolutely fell in love with this West Tampa house and its endless old Tampa charm and unique details such as the Florida room and the little niches built into the walls used to hold artwork, plants or photos. The concrete block house exudes character both inside and out with a newly painted concrete tile rood and beautiful fenced lawn with mature plants and trees. Inside the home an ent...

Beautiful and pristine, this three bedroom, three bathroom is located in the heart of Dunedin, just two blocks from downtown and all of its offerings. This newly constructed home is FHA approved, has never been lived in and includes all of the finest amenities and comforts. The home, priced at $260,000, features a spacious floor plan, with 20ft living room ceilings, open kitchen, enormous master bedroom and ample storage space. The master bedroom suite features a large walk-in closet, walk-in shower, double sinks and a garden tub, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Both the second and third bedrooms also feature their own private bathrooms and walk-in closets. Ample space is provided in the kitchen for cooking and entertaining, with a roomy layout and large breakfast bar. The home includes a complete kitchen appliance package with refrigerator, range, microwave, disposal and dishwasher. The townhouse also features hurricane shutters, a two car garage and a large, upstairs laundry ...

An Extension Could Mean More Jobs and Stronger Economic Stabilization Home builders, finally seeing positive movement in the housing market, are fighting to extend the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit for an additional year. As members of Congress return home for the August congressional recess, the National Association of Home Builders is urging its more than 200,000 members to contact their lawmakers, asking them to help create more jobs and set the stage for a strong recovery by extending the credit program. "If Congress acts to extend the tax credit program, it would spur 383,000 additional home sales, including 80,000 housing starts, creating nearly 350,000 jobs over the coming year." said the NAHB Chairman Joe Robson. "That's good for the economy and good for America." Mark Zandi, the chief economist at Moody's Economy.com, says a healthy housing market is one of the leading indicators for an economic recovery. A secure real estate market is a n...

June saw a rise in pending home sales for the fifth straight month, according to the National Association of Realtors. This increase of 3.6 percent to 94.6 is an encouraging sign for the U.S. housing market as it makes its way toward recovery. According to an article by Inman News , the increase in pending home sales marks the first five consecutive months of gains since July 2003. The largest jump was seen in the South, where pending home sales rose 7.1 percent. All regions saw at least a minimal increase with the smallest seen in the Northeast, at just .4 percent. Almost all regions were significantly higher than in June of 2008. "Historically low interest rates, affordable home prices and a large selection are encouraging buyers who've been on the sidelines. Activity has been consistently much stronger for lower prices homes." said Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist. In addition to the increase in pending U.S. home sales, home resales have also risen for three months in...

The American Recovery and Reinvestment act of 2009 authorized a tax credit of up to $8,000 for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. Any home that will be used as your principal residence qualifies for the tax credit. The law defines a "first-time home buyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-yaer period prior to the purchase. First-time home buyers purchasing any type of home, new or resale, are eligible to receive the tax credit as long as the closing date and title transfer occurs before December 1, 2009. The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home's purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000. The income limit for single taxpayers is $75,000 and $150,000 for a married taxpayers filling a joint return. The money comes in the form of a tax refund, meaning that you will not receive the money until after the house is bought and your 2009 tax return is ...

Have you been considering purchasing your first home? Today's drastically low interest rates and discounted real estate prices make home buying a reality for many. Come join the SI Real Estate team of professionals for an information session to discuss what you need in order to be a prepared buyer in today's Tampa Bay real estate communities. We will discuss current trends in the Tampa Bay real estate market and help you understand what to plan for when making a home buying decision. Here are just a few of the questions that we will be answering: Why is it a good time to buy a house? What is the $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit? What are the financing options available for first-time home buyers? What does it mean to be prequalified? What are the benefits of buying verse renting? What does your credit score mean? Come and enjoy a light lunch, meet with our skilled professionals and get prequalified on site by Wells Fargo mortgage specialists. All attendees will receive ...

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) announced that its July housing market index climbed to the highest level it has been in nearly a year, as improved sales conditions boosted confidence in the market for new single-family homes. The index rose to 17 points, two points above last month's index and the highest it has been since September 2008. "Builders are seeing slightly better sales conditions this month as consumers takes advantage of the first-time buyer tax credit, low interest rates and attractive home prices." said NAHB chairman Joe Robinson. A rise in the home builder index is a positive sign for the U.S. housing market, which has been showing continued signs of stabilization with home sales rising and price declines moderating throughout the country. Low interest rates and other incentives have helped builders attract home buyers while the government's $8,000 first-time home buyer tax credit has facilitated a boost in sales. On a regional basis,...

According to recent statistics posted by the Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS® ( GTAR ), June saw a significant increase in home sale prices and properties sold, as well as a notable decrease in days spent on the market. While we may not yet be out of the woods, this raw real estate data shows significantly improvement conditions in the Tampa Bay market. According to June’s market statistics, units sold were up by as much as 14 percent from May 2009 and 23 percent from last June. Year to date, home sales are up by approximately 20 percent. The days properties spent on the market were down by 7 percent from June, with an average of 110 days for the entire Tampa Bay area. The most positive shift in June’s statistics was the increase in home sale prices throughout the Tampa Bay area. All sub-areas of Hillsborough County saw an increase in selling price with the exception of Town n Country. The average home price was up by $14,000 from May with the average selling price at $191,160. P...

Tampa Buyers Choose Highly Desirable Westchase Area Lake Chase is a lake front gated residential community surrounded by lush and tranq uil landscape. Residents enjoy a resort style pool and sauna, a 24-hour fitness center, tennis courts, a playground, winding nature trails and a large community club house. Lake Chase, adjacent to the master planned and highly desirable Westchase community development in Northwest Tampa, is conveniently located near shopping, dinning, schools and entertainment. Home owners enjoy an exciting, fun, and active community with access to numerous parks and recreational facilities, convenient retail shopping and outstanding schools, all within a few short miles. The Westchase Square retail center is located five minutes from Lake Chase and includes a grocery store, bank, dry cleaner and other necessary services as well as a wide variety of restaurants and entertainment. Along with the local conveniences offered by the community, Lake Chase is also located n...

T. Rowe Price paid $13.5 million last Wednesday for a 75-acre site on State Road 54 in Pasco County. The Baltimore based financial services firm plans to use this land as the site of its new Tampa Bay corporate campus that is expected to bring at least 1,200 new jobs to the Tampa Bay area. The company, aimed at expanding in the region, plans to build three 150,000 square foot buildings on there new site. The relocation to Pasco County is part of an important expansion of T. Rowe Price’s overall operations. This move gives Pasco County a major global employer and is anticipated to bring significant growth to the region. A county commissioned study said that T. Rowe Price could add more than $58.5 million in government taxes and school coffers during the next decade. The project will bring more high-wage jobs to Pasco and reverse some of the heavy commuting along the State Road 54 corridor, the state road that runs along New Tampa , Wesley Chapel and Odessa. With this new development, a...

One of the best real estate successes offering aid in this troubled housing market is the FHA loan program. What exactly is an FHA loan? For those who might still be confused about their financing options, an FHA loan is a United States federal assistance mortgage loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration. The loan program, usually issued by federally qualified lenders, can provide an affordable financing option for many first-time and second home buyers. The current property prices offer an excellent opportunity for investing and because of this cash buyers have taken an active role in today’s real estate market. For home buyers who have had trouble competing with these cash investors but have 3.5 percent to put toward their purchase, finding an FHA approved condominium communities is an excellent option. FHA recently came out with its long-awaited rules on condominium loans, and they are a mixed bag for investors, second home and other buyers and sellers. FHA has said it wil...

According to a recent Realty Times article, “The most bearish of Wall Street economic analysts have made the same point for the past 18 months. There's no recovery or rebound in the housing market, they said, until home builders start building again.” The numbers that they have been waiting on are here. Last week the Commerce Department reported an unexpected rise of 7.5 percent in single family home starts during the month of May. New construction has been one of the weakest segments of the housing market since 2007. May’s increase was the third consecutive monthly gain in single family starts, bringing total starts, including multifamily apartment starts and condos, up by 17.5 percent. Not only were starts significantly up, but so were other key indicators of future home building activity such as single family permits, which saw an increase of 8 percent. Consumer confidence, which is extremely important for home buying, was also up for the fourth consecutive month. Sales of prev...

Consumer confidence recently saw its most dramatic rise in eight months, showing Americans are regaining their confidence in the U.S. economy. According to the Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index , which had improved considerably in April, May saw an even larger increase. The Index now stands at 54.9, up from 40.8 in April. May’s level is the highest since last September’s level of 61.4 According to Lynn Franco, Director of The Confidence Board Consumer Research Center, consumers are considerably less pessimistic than they were earlier this year, and expectations are that business conditions, the labor market and incomes will improve in the coming months. The survey also reported that there was a rise of 23.1 percent in consumers who are expecting business conditions will improve over the next six months. While confidence is still weak by historical standards, it seems that as far as consumers are concerned, the worst is now behind us. According to a Bloomberg article, the gain...

Affordable real estate prices and adequate market availability have made owning at Cordoba Beach Park, one of the most desired luxury townhome communities in South Tampa, a reality for many. Hard wood and ceramic tile flooring pair with vaulted ceilings, dramatic interior views, fully equipped kitchens with granite countertops, cherry cabinets and black appliances, abundant storage space, walk-in closets, garden bathtubs, private garages, and three story spacious floor plans are just some on the features that accompany the townhomes of Cordoba. Mediterranean inspired architecture partnered with fountains and lushly landscaped courtyards brings charm to this upscale community. Residents enjoy access to a community fitness center, a 24-hour business center, clubhouse, sundeck and resort-style pool and spa. Cordoba Beach Park is located in South Tampa at the heart of the Westshore business district. Westshore is the economic and business epicenter of Tampa Bay, boasting over 11 million sq...

Although U.S. real estate prices have taken a hit during the troubled economic conditions, there are reasons to cheer if you are looking for diversity in your investment portfolio. While the discounted prices may not be good for short-term investors who wish to purchase real estate in a booming economy and then immediately resell it for a profit, investors with a long-term vision see bigger opportunities. With the ever changing conditions of the U.S. real estate market, right now appears to be the best time for bargain hunters to grab cheap properties that will grow in value over time. According to “Three reasons for cheer for the overseas property investors” published by Assetz Property News Services, “whenever the recovery may come, be it in the next few months, not until the end of the year or even well into 2010, the acquisition of something for a low price now may look like a very good deal in 2014 or 2015.” With evidence of U.S. market conditions turning around, investment decisi...

While some U.S. buyers may still be uncertain whether or not it is time to step off the fence and buy their dream home or condo in Florida, international investors are showing increased confidence in an early Florida real estate market recovery and are quickly taking advantage of the deeply discounted prices. Foreign buyers continue to recognize the U.S. real estate market as a desirable, profitable and secure investment and the weak U.S. dollar partnered with the housing surplus has made the U.S., and particularly the Florida, real estate market even more attractive, according to an article by the Gerson Lehrman Group. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Realtors , in cooperation with the Florida Association of Realtors , half of the Florida Realtors surveyed indicated that more than 25% of their business now comes from international clients. These foreign investors come from all over the world and have shown a particular interest in the Tampa Bay, Sarasota-Bra...

Florida consistently earns top rankings from lifestyle, business, education, retirement and travel publications. Constant economic growth, pristine landscape, and the consistently temperate climate are just a few factors that make the state an ideal location to retire, start a family, build a career, attend university, or advance in a profession. Florida is ideal for anyone’s relocation needs. • “Top State Business Climate.” Florida’s business climate ranked 4th among executives and 6th overall on Site Selection magazine’s 2008 Top State Business Climate rankings. Read more . • “Best Tax Climate for Business.” Florida continues to rank among the top five states for best tax climate for business, according to a Tax Foundation survey. With no state income tax, low corporate taxes, a low unemployment insurance tax rate, and sales tax exemptions for certain business transactions, Florida has remained among the top five U.S. states since the survey’s inception. Read more . • “#1 in Online ...

New Townhome Community Gorgeous and Incredibly Spacious 3BR/2.5BA for Sale in Brandon, Florida FHA Approved!! Brand New Townhomes Excellent Builder! These tastefully decorated homes are offered in the $140’s, and are located in the Brandon/Riverview area of Florida, offering the finest amenities and most convenient location. Enjoy the privacy of having no backdoor neighbors as you relax on your screen enclosed lanai overlooking the park and picnic area. Enjoy your morning coffee in the eat-in kitchen, at the breakfast bar, sitting at the dining room table, or on the lanai enjoying our fantastic Florida weather. The living area is spacious and open, providing an entertainment cut-out and an ideal lay-out for furniture placement. The large master bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings, walk-in closet and private bathroom with dual sinks, garden tub, and separate shower. The laundry room with washer and dryer hook-ups is conveniently located on the second floor allowing easy access. Total sq ...

Cash buyers are grabbing deals at rock bottom prices in the Tampa Bay real estate market. According to the market statistics provided by the Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS® ( GTAR ), in April of this year 38% of all financing was cash. This is more than a 10% increase from April of 2008. Cash financing increased from 285 transactions in April of last year to 508 this year. FHA and VA financing has also seen an increased from last year, although not as drastic. Conventional financing has decreased from 555 transactions to 394, signifying that a majority of real estate transactions being made in the Tampa Bay area this year are by cash buyers. According to the same report from GTAR, homes sales have increased from 897 in April of last year to 992 in April of this year, with more than 3,424 total homes being sold to date in 2009. Market activity is definitely moving quickly in Tampa, Florida.