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2011 Lakeland Florida Overall Housing Market Review - A Roller Coaster Ride

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 07:04:54 -0500

2011 Lakeland Florida Overall Housing Market Review - A Roller Coaster Ride

Every month I have watched, researched and written about the Lakeland FL Housing Market to see how we would compare to the same month in 2010 and even prior years. Folks asking me how is the housing market, is it getting any better? Are the prices going up? When will the prices go up?

We started out historically slow in 2011 compared to 2010, but that was done artificially due to the first time homebuyers tax credit which ended officially in April 2010 but if you had a binding contract, closing must have taken place by July 1, 2010. The roller coaster started to climb with rises in between until we took a dive in June as the Lakeland FL housing market hit a midyear low. By August we outperformed average sales price compared to the previous year and it looked for a moment that our local housing market had bottomed out. December ended in the bottom four when it comes to overall average sales price, although overall average sales prices were down, the number of transaction rose and that is the only good news I have.

Here are the Lakeland FL housing market numbers:

In Lakeland FL, a total of 2434 residential properties were sold at an average price of $107,863 in 2011.
In Lakeland FL, a total of 2305 residential properties were sold at an average price of $116,220 in 2010.
Overall average prices were down 7%. Overall transactions (number of sales) was up by 6%.

While these are not horrific declines, they do speak to the angst that continues to dominate the housing market. Moreover, with the new wave of foreclosures coming into the Lakeland FL housing market they do point to 2012 that we may continue the roller coaster ride with up and down prices.

The good news is that the number of transactions improved despite the reduction of foreclosures due to the fraudulent or robo-signing documents that halted the foreclosure process for months resulting foreclosure sales were taken somewhat out of the equation.

How come 2011 Lakeland home prices sucked so badly? Our pipeline with homes under contract (pending) at 538 that includes 323 short sales most of them will not close next month, if at all and that is exactly what happened in 2011. Short sales that weren't approved or mortgages that didn't get commitment or clear to close, the pending numbers do not represent a fast approaching housing recovery. Moreover, until we see lenders doing their part to accommodate the seller’s delinquent loans approving them in a timely manner, the housing recovery will remain flat.

The bad news is the Lakeland Florida housing market remains flat. And that will most likely be the new normal market for the foreseeable future.

Prices will remain low due to the distressed housing market. Buyers are more savvy, they don’t want to spend more than they can afford. They want instant equity and with foreclosures and short sales selling at deep discounts, the traditional seller has no other choice than to adjust their listing price if they want or need to sell. In addition, buyers have their own struggles with the lender to commit loaning money to them.

I suspect the roller coaster ride will continue throughout 2012 in Lakeland Florida with up and down prices and up and down sales.

I hope you found this post useful! If you need help finding or selling your Lakeland, Florida home, please contact Petra Norris - REALTOR(R) at 863-619-6918. If you’re new to Lakeland, I’d especially like to extend a warm welcome. I value my clients and provide them with honest, reliable service. Allow me to introduce you to the Lakeland FL real estate landscape and all it has to offer.

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Not Paying Your HOA Fees Is The #1 Killer of Short Sales and Deed In Lieu

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 10:12:45 -0500

Attention Lakeland Florida homeowners! Are you thinking about short sales or are in a short sale situation. If you think HOA (homeowners' association) fees are not a big deal, think again when you read this well written article by Katerina Gasset, a Wellington Short Sale specialist.

More importantly, this happens in Lakeland FL too as I had this very same discussion with an attorney recently about HOA following through with the foreclosure process.

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Homes For Sale (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):

Not paying your HOA Fees is the #1 Killer of Short Sales and Deed in Lieu.

Many homeowners who are behind in their mortgage payments are also behind in their HOA fees. When we take on a short sale listing it is very important for the seller to understand the ramifications of NOT paying HOA fees.

In the state of Florida the HOA can foreclose on you, they can lock you out of the pool and clubhouse, they can evict you after the foreclose on you and rent your condo or property out, they can deny you access through the gate.

And the HOA can do this very fast. Many people here are being told by their agents, by their attorneys and by their friends and family members that their HOA can not foreclose because the first bank, the main lien holder, is in first position and if your bank has not foreclosed the HOA can't. Well, that is NOT TRUE.

The HOA can foreclose on you subject to the first lien holder. They don't need your bank to foreclose on you first or at all.

If you are planning on doing a short sale then you should do all you can to keep up with your HOA payments. If you are far behind and the HOA has their legal council contacting you- make some arrangements to pay towards the part you are behind.

If your HOA fees get too high, your lender is not going to approve those to be paid out of the net loss they are getting at closing.

If you want to do a deed in lieu you have to be current with your HOA fees or you have to negotiate with your lender to pay a portion of those fees for you because you must give clean title in a deed in lieu.

Attorneys tell us that for deed in lieu- the number one killer is the homeowner being behind in their HOA payments.

Most every attorney we know that understands the short sale process advises their clients that even if they are not making their mortgage payments they should keep current with their HOA payments.

We are not attorneys and we are not giving you legal advice. Consult an attorney if you are behind in your HOA payments. There are options to foreclosure.

If you or someone you know is behind in their payments consider a Florida short sale.Contact Nestor or Katerina Gasset at 561-753-0135 today for your private confidential interview to go over your short sale options.

Nestor Gasset and Katerina Gasset- Realtors®, CIPS, ABR, SFR, GRI, REOS

International Properties & Investments, Inc

Call us today at 561-753-0135 to get your house sold.

Authors of Short Sales Success

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Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Best Barbecue in Town - Lakeland FL Annual Pig Fest January 27-28, 2012

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:55:09 -0500

Best Barbecue in Town - Lakeland FL Annual Pig Fest January 27-28, 2012

I can't imagine spending a better way than to attend this year's Lakeland's Annual Pig Fest on January 27 and 28, 2012. In it's 16th year for its barbecue competition, such as the Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned competition, Publix Supermarket Backyard BBQ competition, and for kids, Kids-Q barbecue contest, enticing professional barbecue teams to travel to our beautiful city .

This year gates open at 5:30pm on Friday, January 27, 2012 to enjoy an evening of music, food, and games. On Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 10:00 am is when the real competition begins. Competitors from all over the country will flock to Lakeland Florida to compete in four different categories including Ribs, Chicken, Pork, and Brisket.

Friday’s entertainment at Center Stage is to include nightriders at 6:00 pm and Soul 2 Earth from 7:00 pm-10:00 pm. But don’t forget about the Backyard ‘Party Stage’ which will feature Cross Traxx and Vertical Circus. While Saturday Center Stage will include Pushin Eighties from 10:00 am- 1:15 pm followed by Brush Creek from 1:45 pm- 5:00 pm. And the Backyard ‘Party Stage’ will play host to The Sweeney Family Band, Madison Mckenzie, Cross Traxx, and Ace Jackson & The Jump Kings Performing throughout the day. LEGOLAND Florida will once again sponsor the Children’s corner and is said to include bounce houses and many other fun surprises.

There will also be a Kids-Q where children will compete on their own grills. The Kids-Q was started in 2004 when competitors came to the realization they did not want the art of Barbeque to disappear after they were no longer here so they have brought the kids into the mix by giving them a fun way to participate in the competition. And these kids are phenomenal cooks. Not to mention what a great family event! Read more about things to do with kids in and around Lakeland Florida.

A tad bit of history lesson! It started all in 1994 when a small group of local businessmen attended the Blue Ridge Mountain town of Tyron, N.C. to watch a barbecue championship. From then on, a festival committee was established and Lakeland’s Pig Festival welcomed its first barbecue competitors in 1997. Since then, professional teams and backyard teams travel great distances to compete separate in now five different categories in Ribs (loin and spare), Pork (shoulder and butt), Chicken, Brisket (beef) and Sauce. The Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) Professional Competition and Judging School considers Lakeland’s Pig Fest to be one of the finest events sanctioned by KCBS. Lakeland’s annual Pig Fest held at Joker Marchant Stadium has since then grown to over 300 Barbecue Teams competing for prize money and attendance growing quickly each year.

The Junior League of Greater Lakeland became in 2005 the lead organizer for this great event and they do an outstanding job providing volunteers to see that this free event is run smoothly. The Lakeland Pig Festival has contributed over $650,000 to local charities and growing. The event in itself is free, such as the concerts – as you walk towards the gate, let me suggest you buy “Pig Dollars” near the entrance for food and drinks and also some for your kids, since I’m sure they want to take part in arts & crafts, climbing and jumping. Don’t worry if you run out of the “Pig Dollars or “Pig Bucks”, there are various locations throughout the area for you to buy more.

It is a fun event for the whole family to enjoy.

Check out this video of year's past at the Lakeland FL Pig Fest!

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Lakeland FL Carillon Lakes Homes for Sale | Market Report for December 2011

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:22:56 -0500

Carillon Lakes in Lakeland Florida was developed over ten years ago and it is a deed restricted community. There are a variety of homes and condominiums situated throughout this lovely neighborhood that was developed in the early 2000. This community provides plenty of activities for its residents as well as for children. The community’s monthly calendar is filled with entertainment like, water aerobics, book buffs, game night, investment clubs and much, much more. The appearance of this community shows pride with manicured lawns and walkways throughout the community and its surrounding lakes.

A short distance to major employers such as Publix Supermarkets corporate office and GEICO Insurance as well as shopping at the Lakeside Village, Target and many restaurants situated along Harden Boulevard makes Carillon Lakes in Lakeland Florida a convenient location.Carillon Lakes in Lakeland FL is conveniently located minutes from Polk Parkway and Interstate 4, Carillon Lakes is a 24hr man-gated community situated southwest Lakeland, Florida and has almost 650 homeowners according to their newsletter. Carillon Lakes community has a lot to offer for families and retirees such as swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball court, fitness center, playground and a club house at the Town Center which can be rented for family gatherings such as birthday parties and other social gatherings.

The Carillon Lakes Community in Lakeland FL offer low monthly home owners association fee provide 24 hr gated manned security, lawn mowing in open area on the properties, usage of tennis court, basket ball courts, swimming pool, fitness center, planned activities and much, much more.

Carillon Lakes in Lakeland FL has currently a 7 homes for sale that offer great contemporary architectural style built single family homes and condominiums from 1756 – 2331 square feet of living space ranging from $95,000 - $189,900. There are also currently 8 homes under contract which are short sales.

Carillon Lakes Homes for sale in Lakeland FL:

2 homes - Bank-owned/REO - average list price: $118,225

3 homes - Short Sales - average list price: $131,000

2 homes - Traditional - average list price: $184,900

2 Carillon Lake Homes were sold in December 2011 and both were sold for $160,000 each. Same month last year 4 homes were sold with an average price of $133,500. Sales price in Carillon Lakes are still trending downwards with an average of 2 1/2 sales per months.

3057 Bellflower Way - 3 bedrooms/2baths; 2,160 sq.ft. - sold for $160,000 - Traditional Sale

3078 Bellflower Way - 4 bedrooms/3baths; 2,510 sq.ft. - sold for $160,000 - Traditional Sale

If you are considering selling your Carillon Lakes, I would be happy to provide you with a comparable market analysis. All you have to do is call my office at (863) 619-6918. If you are interested in buying a Carillon Lakes home, I would be happy to assist you and provide you with a detailed list of homes that are currently for sale.

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Chef T’s Garden Grill Lakeland Florida - Dining Experience Extraordinaire

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:16:51 -0500

Chef T’s Garden Grill Lakeland Florida - Dining Experience Extraordinaire

This past holiday, I received a gift certificate from one of my clients to a restaurant I had no idea it existed. Hmh, could there be a well kept secret in town that I had no clue after living in Lakeland Florida for such a long time Chef T’s Garden Grill even existed?

Curiosity struck me when I was told about the history of this historic home which was owned by Frances and Olin Chiles, uncle of the late Governor Lawton Chiles, Jr. - please click here to read more

Chef Terry Doner brought the old Chiles home back to life in February of 2008 with some of the finest dining you’ll find in Lakeland Florida. His exquisite continental and American cuisine are extraordinary. He also make sure that daily shopping for fresh ingredients, which makes it by far the best reason you will enjoy good quality food.

Since my husband had to work during on Christmas, it was time for a romantic dinner. Made dinner reservation on the suggestion of my client to call in advance due to limited seating and that evening we drove to Chef T’s Garden Grill in Lakeland Florida which is located on 1525 E Gary Road.

When we arrived at Chef T’s Garden Grill we were greeted by the waiter who took us to our candle-lit table. The small intimate dining room was tastefully decorated in holiday decor with soft holiday music playing in the background.

Our food selection was Chef T’s house specialties, for me a Maple Leaf Farms duck breast which was pan seared to perfection, house salad and for desert a to-die-for Tiramisu. My husband had a cup of clam chowder soup, Angus filet mignon which was perfectly seasoned and cooked perfect to my husband’s choice. During our meals, waiter made sure we always had a full glass of drinks, Chef Terry Doner came out and asked if the food was to our desire, which I responded that we were extremely satisfied and that Chef T’s Garden Grill in Lakeland Florida is the best kept secret in town.

If you have not tried Chef T’s Garden Grill in Lakeland Florida yet, he has some great specials coming up, such as specials Valentine’s Day and other special occasion, but then again just like Trent Rowe, The Ledger’s food critic, gave Chef T’s four stars in May of 2008 saying, “This is a restaurant where even a casual dinner is special enough to feel like a memorable birthday or anniversary.”

Whether you sit outside in their garden patio surrounded by the setting of flowers and tropical Florida foliage or wine and dine in the historic turn of the century Chiles house, the experience you take away from this will be remarkable.

I definitely recommend that you call ahead and make reservation.

Chef T’s Garden Grill

1525 E Gary Road

Lakeland, Florida 33801

Phone (863) 687-4386

website: www.cheftsgardengrill.com

Hours

Dinner Tuesday - Saturday 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Closed: Sunday & Monday

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - Sandpiper Golf & Country Club Market Snapshot December 2011

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:25:52 -0500

Lakeland FL Sandpiper Golf Homes For Sale - December 2011 Real Estate Market Update

Lakeland Fl Sandpiper Golf Home prices for the past twelve months shows that sellers realize to sell their homes quickly, they must price them competitively to achieve their goal. Pricing homes competitively shows in the pending activity because 6 out of 7 homes are listed for under $120,000 with two of the listings are Lakeland foreclosures and one short sale.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club real estate market:

In the 55+ age restricted Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community there were three homes sold in December 2011 while 28 homes are currently for sale. Although prices have dropped for this 55+ adult community, it has very few distressed properties.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Lakeland FL Homes for Sale:

Active Listings: 28

Average list price: $124,435

Median list price: $122,400

Pending Listings: 7

Average list price: $102,357

Median list price: $97,000

2 Homes were sold in the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community in December 2011.

6039 Kittiwake Drive - 2b/2b - 1125 sq.ft Sold: $87,000

574 Eagle Run - 2b/2b - 1196 sq.ft. Sold: $118,000

Sandpiper Golf & Country Club, an active 55+ community, is located in North Lakeland with easy access to I-4, top medical facilities, shopping a dining. The homes were built in the late 80’s through the late 90’s and contain approximately 1200 single homes and villas from over 900 – 2,000 square feet. Homes have 2 or 3 bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, and offer a variety of floor plans and upgrades, such as enclosed patio, flooring, kitchen, appliances, etc. They are mostly used as vacation homes for our Snow Birds as their winter resident; however year around living shows an active lifestyle in this community, such as golfing, swimming, social gatherings, walking, exercising, dining and much more..

If you are interested in selling your Sandpiper Golf & Country Club home and would like to know what your home might sell for, give me a call at (863) 619-6918. Also, if you are interested more about homes for sale in the over 55+ Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community, again call or email me at petra[at]petranorris.com.

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Homes Just Listed In Lakeland Florida - January 1 through January 15' 2012

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:14:34 -0500

Lakeland FL Homes Just Listed - January 1 Through January 15' 2012

Update for the Lakeland FL homes for Sale! Newly listed homes for the first half of January. A total of 120 Lakeland FL homes were just listed with area Realtors® at an average sales price of $136,973. There are currently 1332 homes for sale in Lakeland FL (January 19, 2012) and 523 homes are under currently contract (pending).

The types of homes and average prices for sale in Lakeland, Florida according to the Multiple Listing Services (MLS) are as follows:

3 condos with an average sales price of $46,433

16 manufactured/mobile homes listed with an average sales price of $51,228

6 villas/town homes listed with a sales price of $74,050

95 single family homes with an average sales price of $158,248

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - Just Listed! The priciest home listed for this time period is a 1927 Tudor style home, featuring 7 bedrooms 3 2 1/2 baths with over 7,700 square feet of living space. This single family home is located on beautiful Lake Hollingsworth, it is being offered at $1,300,000. On the contrary, the cheapest Lakeland house for sale - a 1925 bank-owned single family home listed for this time period featuring 3bedroom/1bath in the Sloan Park Community, it is being offered at $14,000.

All data for this report was obtained from the Mid-Florida Regional MLS, it is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This report does not include “For Sale By Owner”.

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale – take a look at the breakdown by zip code:

33801 – 14 with an average sales price of $55,750

33803 – 06 with an average sales price of $335,067

33805 – 11 with an average sales price of $93,973

33809 – 19 with an average sales price of $112,347

33810 – 17 with an average sales price of $97,174

33811 – 19 with an average sales price of $101,562

33812 – 07 with an average sales price of $136,800

33813 – 20 with an average sales price of $248,255

33815 – 07 with an average sales price of $139,043

Update on Lakeland FL Foreclosures and Short Sales:

A total of 472 Lakeland homes are currently actively being marketed that are facing foreclosure or are listed as short sales. There were 62 Lakeland FL houses newly listed in the distressed category as Bank Owned and Short Sale with an average price of $100,240 which equals to $59.7 per square foot. There are currently 394 distressed homes under contract awaiting closing, the majority of these homes are Lakeland FL Short Sales. There are currently on 96 Lakeland foreclosures available for sale.

Check out this interactive map of Lakeland FL Homes for sale - I'm sure you will find great deals and best of all, you can move the map in any direction you want to move it to - all over the United States.

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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I Don't Make Promises I Can't Keep - A Violation Of The Code Of Ethics?

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:14:28 -0500

I Don't Make Promises I Can't Keep - A Violation Of The Code Of Ethics?

After one of my recent listing appointments, I was taken by surprise because the reason I did not get the listing is because I don't make promises I can't keep.

During my pre-listing interview with this potential seller, I've got the impression they were very exited and very motivated to sell their home fast. Equipped with my market analysis and my presentation I drove to my listing appointment. During the appointment I explained to them that in order to sell the home quickly an aggressive pricing strategy is recommended. I reminded them also that even though they have updated their home and maintained it very well, the price what they paid for during the housing bubble can't be achieved at this time. As I discussed the housing market in Lakeland and more importantly within their surrounding community, they were in agreement with my pricing recommendation and strategy, however they wanted to talk with another agent and would get back with me the next day.

I left very confident about my visit as they expressed to me that my name came up through word of mouth advertisement and they felt very comfortable with me. The next day came and went and no call back. The next day I called the seller and asked them when we can meet to sign the listing agreement. They however declined to list with me because I could not promise them to sell their home at a much higher listing price as the other real estate agent did.

It took me by surprise to say the least, not because they didn't list with me. I was surprised that there are still agents who promise sellers to sell their home at a certain list price and guarantee them or promise them to sell it at this price.

Could that be a violation of our Code of Ethics?

The Code of Ethics and the Standard of Practice of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® states the following:

Standard of Practice 1-3

REALTORS®, in attempting to secure a listing, shall not deliberately mislead the owner as to market value.

It is one thing to make it clear to a potential seller that the list price does not reflect market value before signing on the dotted line, it is my opinion a violation of the Code of Ethics when a real estate agent makes a promise to the seller to sell at a list price and not make the seller aware of current market value just to get the listing.

What do you say?

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Does the Word 'Binding' Still Exist?

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 11:32:35 -0500

Attention Lakeland FL Buyers! A fully executed contract is binding, not just in California as Melissa Zavala has so nicely explained in her article, contracts are also binding in the State of Florida.

When it comes to buying a home, especially a short sale "binding" should not be taken lightly. In fact, not only can you loose your deposit, your best opportunity to buy a home at a great price is lost.

Sellers do rely on you when accepting your offer, they'll trust you do the same and as a Lakeland FL Short Sale Agent, I do everything I can to make the transaction as smooth as possible.

Via Melissa Zavala Realtor® North San Diego County Homes (Broadpoint Properties):

Do you remember when you got your first checking account? Maybe you were eighteen and you were told that when you sign a check, you are signing a binding contract.

Same goes for the real estate purchase contract. It’s binding. Not sure what has happened over the last several years, but in the state of California, it appears as if many people are not taking the real estate purchase contract seriously.

For example, a buyer offers to purchase a property and close the transaction within 45 days of acceptance of the offer by the seller. Seller accepts, and 30 days into the transaction, the buyer says that his lender cannot close the transaction on time. The lender needs another 21 days.

Or, a buyer offers to purchase a property as-is for a specified price. Then, after the offer is accepted, the buyer changes his mind and wants to pay less. Or… the buyer was going to pay cash, and now needs to get a loan.

While everyone understands that circumstances arise that can impact a buyer’s decision to purchase a property, it seems that these situations arise more and more frequently.

When it comes to short sales, this is even tougher to swallow. After spending several weeks convincing the lien holder to move forward and accept a short sale based on the terms and conditions of a contract, imagine the lien holder’s dismay when you contact them to say that the buyer has changed his terms, needs an extra month to close the transaction, or wants some additional repairs on a property that is being sold as-is.

Recently, our office negotiated a short sale and the buyer had trouble closing on time. It took over 90 days for the buyer to get his loan docs into escrow. And, by then, the banks advised us that the short sale had to be processed all over again from the very beginning. You see, short sale approval letters can only receive so many extensions before then bank is done.

So, with respect to representing buyers in real estate transactions and especially in short sales, it is vital to set buyer expectations and to explain the real estate contract in great detail. Make sure that your buyer knows what s/he is signing—a binding contract. Frivolous changes and cancellations can be costly. And, in the case of a short sale, a buyer’s inability to respect the terms of the contract can lead an unsuspecting seller directly into foreclosure. And, that would be a real bummer, don’t you think?

(photo credit)

Melissa Zavala
BROKER/REALTOR® ● DRE #01324959

BROADPOINT PROPERTIES, INC.
760.839.3838

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Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - 6116 Laurel Oak Drive

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:25:19 -0500

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - 6116 Laurel Oak Drive Lakeland FL 33811

This home is situated in an exclusive single family home neighborhood in the much desired South West area of Lakeland in Polk County Florida. You will find no cookie cutter homes in the Oakview Estates community. Residents will enjoy the unique style, layout, and various features that will be sure to accommodate the different needs and lifestyles of all, when you are looking for a home in a more traditional neighborhood. Lakeland homes for sale in 33811 lay in a rural area that offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. You will surely take in the lush green landscaped properties, tree lined streets and highly maintained homes which makes you feel relaxed and a perfect place to raise children.

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - Southwest - Oakview Estates

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Video
Neighborhood

$175,000 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 2,176 sqft
Lot: 0.79 acre(s)
Location

6116 Laurel Oak Drive
Lakeland, FL 33811
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

Petra Norris

CDV TransAtlantic, Inc. Real Estate Brokerage
(863) 619-6918
pnorris500@gmail.com
http://www.petranorris.com

Listed by: CDV TransAtlantic, Inc Real Estate Brokerage

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This Lakeland FL home is not a short sale and with your added touch perhaps with an addition of a pool or a garden with fruits and vegetables, the possibilities for this home are endless. Please call Petra Norris at (863) 619-6918 or email me at petra[at]petranorris.com to schedule a pivate showing.

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Top Five Things To Do With Grandkids Around Lakeland Florida

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:30:23 -0500

Top Five Things To Do With Grandkids Around Lakeland Florida

Summer vacation, Spring break, Thanksgiving break, Winter break…. What do they all have in common? It is the time to spend with Grandkids! Whether your grandkids are young or on the verge of becoming adults, as grandparents we cannot wait to see those faces, which always brings a smile to our hearts. I’m always delighted to spend time with my grandkids when they come to visit us in Lakeland Florida. However, the dilemma I face is what can I do to entertain them. Sure we live in the Sunshine State and there is always Disney, Universal, and Busch Gardens however with a tight budget, trips out of town are not always attainable. So what is it we can do with our grandkids right here in Lakeland?

Here is my top five things to do with your grandkids around Lakeland Florida:

There are ample parks around Lakeland.Common Ground Park is located on Edgewood Drive and has received numerous praises for its innovative ideas. This park is a haven where children of all abilities can socialize and play right next to each other. It is a park where children who may not normally get to play in your average playground because of an unleveled or less than solid ground can move around the different obstacles without the worry of footing.

We have Barnett Park, which is situated next to the beautiful Lake Mirror. With its great central location in Lakeland it is easily and quickly accessible to people from all parts of town. Lakeland has essentially in one area three different parks including a small water park to enjoy during those hot summer days. There is an area for older kids to climb and swing. The third area for preschoolers is called Sunflower Preschool Park. A Playground modeled off of Common Ground Park. It is geared toward the 2-5 year old age range. It was developed after parents realized the toys at Barnett Park were geared more toward their older kids, which left the little ones with nothing to truly entertain themselves.

Downtown Lakeland is always a fun

place to go especially during First Fridays. For the little ones stop by Explorations V museum, a great educational but fun place for kids to learn about different things going on in our area. First Fridays is even a great activity for the older grandchildren since there are plenty of activities going on to entertain a wide range of people. Between great foods, live musicians, and Ice Cream what’s not to love.

New to the Lakeland Florida area is Legoland Florida. Legoland is situated in the same location of Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven, FL. I was saddened to hear that Cypress Garden’s which had become a staple to the Central Florida region was closing. It didn’t come as a surprise when our economy took a turn for the worse and so many large theme parks within a 60 mile radius drive. However when hearing Legoland Florida was now going to occupy this same location I was excited because it meant a whole new realm of possibilities. Legoland even held onto some of the charm of the former Cypress Gardens with a ski show, historical botanical gardens, and Lego Southern Belles. And coming Summer 2012 is the Legoland Waterpark.

When it is a teenager needing to be entertained there is the ample options of shopping and movies at the Lakeside Village. Lakeside Village features many places to shop for people of all ages. Know of a movie coming out which your teenage grandchildren maybe interested in why not try a midnight showing! Show those kids that even though we like to go to bed early and get up early doesn’t mean that every once in a while we can’t stay up late and enjoy a nice night out on the town with them.

While Lakeland Florida is a great place to retire due to our warm winters and suburban towns centrally located to larger cities, there are still plenty of activities to entertain our grandchildren when they come to visit us here in Lakeland.

Looking for a great home to buy in Lakeland, click on the icon below and start your free home search now

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Successful Lakeland FL Short Sale Client Testimonial Because Of Blogging On Active Rain

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 14:11:07 -0500

Successful Lakeland FL Short Sale Client Testimonial Because Of Blogging On Active Rain

A happy client testimonial all because of blogging on Active Rain. Consider syndicating your blogs to other local news outlets. Here in Lakeland Florida our main local newspaper is "The Ledger". As more and more folks read their newspaper online, The Ledger also paid it forward for local bloggers to submit their articles to www.polkvoice.com. I submitted my articles I have written on Active Rain for a few years now by simply adding my RSS feed to their "Submit Your Blog" widget. Voila.... and all your articles are read by thousands of readers world wide. When consumers call me about the Lakeland Florida real estate market I ask them how do they found me and they reply on The Ledger's website. Folks who lived in Lakeland love to read what's going on here and their best resource is online articles

This is how I was found online and only because my sellers were reading my articles online. You see it doesn't matter where they read your articles as long as the phone keeps ringing and yes they found me because I am blogging on Active Rain.

I hope you enjoy reading my successful Lakeland FL Short Sale Client Testimonial

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Lakeland FL Homes Just Listed - December 16 through December 31, 2011

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:00:17 -0500

Lakeland FL Homes Just Listed - December 16 through December 31, 2011

Update for the Lakeland FL homes for Sale! Newly listed homes for the first half of December. A total of 84 Lakeland FL homes were just listed with area Realtors® at an average sales price of $118,261. There are currently 1300 homes for sale in Lakeland FL (January 5, 2012) and 492 homes are under currently contract (pending).

The types of homes and average prices for sale in Lakeland, Florida according to the Multiple Listing Services (MLS) are as follows:

7 duplex units with an average sales price of $52,557

9 manufactured/mobile homes listed with an average sales price of $36,700

6 villas/townhomes listed with a sales price of $84,580

62 single family homes with an average sales price of $140,778

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - Just Listed! The priciest home listed for this time period is a 1980 Single Family pool home, featuring 4 bedrooms 4 baths with over 3,500 square feet of living space. This single family home is located on Lake Howard in the Lone Palm Golf Club community, it is being offered at $750,000. On the contrary, the cheapest Lakeland house for sale - a 1984 bank-owned mobile home listed for this time period featuring 3bedroom/2bath on Davis Road, it is being offered at $9,900 - this mobile home is of no value.

All data for this report was obtained from the Mid-Florida Regional MLS, it is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This report does not include “For Sale By Owner”.

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale – take a look at the breakdown by zip code:

33801 – 08 with an average sales price of $40,113

33803 – 06 with an average sales price of $124,867

33805 – 10 with an average sales price of $134,477

33809 – 11 with an average sales price of $99,236

33810 – 18 with an average sales price of $101,022

33811 – 05 with an average sales price of $143,728

33812 – 05 with an average sales price of $182,880

33813 – 15 with an average sales price of $134,279

33815 – 06 with an average sales price of $160,300

Update on Lakeland FL Foreclosures and Short Sales:

A total of 450 Lakeland homes are currently actively being marketed that are facing foreclosure or are listed as short sales. There were 47 Lakeland FL houses newly listed in the distressed category as Bank Owned and Short Sale with an average price of $90,934 which equals to $49.91 per square foot. There are currently 371 distressed homes under contract awaiting closing, the majority of these homes are Lakeland FL Short Sales. There are currently on 24 Lakeland foreclosures available for sale.

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Lakeland FL Homes for Sale Zip Code 33811 - 6116 Laurel Oak Drive - Just Listed!

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:45:39 -0500

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale Zip Code 33811 - 6116 Laurel Oak Drive - Just Listed!

Looking for a rural setting in southwest Lakeland, FL 33811! Bring your RV and your boat, this well maintained Lakeland Florida home has room for it all. This home is nestled in a great location where you find no cookie cutter homes and no deed restrictions. It is away from the hustle and bustle but close to the Interstate, shopping and dining facilities. No banks involved to stall the negotiations, just you and the seller. A lot of home and property for a great price of $175,000.00

3 Bedrooms

2 Baths

2176 sq.ft. heated living space

Built: 1976

2 car attached garage

2 carports

family room

formal living room

formal dining room

inside utility room

screen room

updated appliances

double pane windows

eat-in kitchen

large pantry

0.79 acres

To go through this door, please call Petra Norris for a private showing at (863) 712-4207

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

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Lakeland FL Short Sale and Foreclosure Market Report – November 2011

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 20:15:41 -0500

Lakeland FL Short Sale and Foreclosure Market Report – November 2011

For the month of November, the Lakeland real estate market of short sales and bank-owned (REO) properties has decreased. There were a total of only 92 distressed homes sold that were in some kind of distress, compared to the 98 homes the previous month and 74 home the previous year.

Current inventory for Lakeland FL foreclosures as of 12/30/11 is at 85, while 51 homes currently are under contract and awaiting closing.

What are the price ranges, buyers and investors are most interested?

Lakeland Foreclosures Market Report

$49,999 or under – 25 homes

$50,000 – $99,999 – 14 homes

$100,000 – $149,999 – 10 homes

$150,000 – $199,999 – 1 homes

$200,000 – $249,999 – 1 home

Current inventory for Lakeland Short Sales as of 12/30/11 is at 359 homes, while 330 homes are under contract and waiting to close.

Lakeland Short Sales Market Report

$49,999 or under – 7 homes

$50,000 – $99,999 – 20 homes

$100,000 – $149,999 – 10 homes

$150,000 – $199,999 – 3 homes

$250,000 – $299,999 – 1 home

The Graph below compares sold homes in all categories – Traditional Sales (None Distressed), Lakeland Foreclosures (REO) and Lakeland Short Sales

Average days to Closing for bank-owned properties are 82 days

Average days to Closing for other distressed properties are 280 days.

41 Lakeland FL Short Sale properties sold – average sold price$96,700 – median sold price $91,000.

51 Lakeland FL Foreclosures (REO) sold – average sold price $67,530 – median sold price $56,000

Low Lakeland Florida foreclosure inventory may be the answer for you if you are contemplating short sales and your family and friends telling you that buyers only work the foreclosures. Don’t be fooled, putting your home on the market as a short sale may be your best option now as buyers are frustrated in the bidding war against investors. Buyers are willing to look at buying Lakeland short sales.

Don’t let time be against you. Don’t be foreclosed. Call your Lakeland FL Short Sale Agent – Petra Norris at (863) 619-6918 and find out about our options.

Petra Norris - REALTOR®, SFR
Managing Broker - CDV TransAtlantic, Inc.

(863) 619-6918

Search Lakeland FL Homes For Sale | Lakeland FL Short Sale Agents
Lakeland FL Short Sales | Buying Lakeland FL Short Sales

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