Blog of Beach Realty of Cape San Blas http://www.flbeaches.net {ts '2012-02-04 14:34:25'} {ts '2012-02-04 14:34:25'} Bluewater RSS http://www.bluewateri.net http://www.flbeaches.net http://www.flbeaches.net Blog of Beach Realty of Cape San Blas
It's nice to live in a town where the main street can be shut down to all-day activities without blocking the highway traffic breezing through town. They are totally oblivous to what lies just one block over. I'm sure you've heard the expression "slow down and smell the roses". In Port St. Joe's case, travelers should slow down and smell the candy corn, caramel apples and people having good old wholesome fun.

Business owners are preparing for an influx of locals as well as out of towners who want to take part in traditions, such as judging of costumes, costume parades and children receiving bags of candy. Shoppes will have sales going on. New stores will be opening. Storytellers will be set up telling tales of long ago. Do you remember doing these things during your childhood?

Aren't we glad we live in a community that isn't over-run with highways and freeways, and tall skyscraper buildings; a place that has a slower pace to enjoy the small things in life.

Come join Port St. Joe on Saturday, October 30th, for a full day of activities. And remember, if you can't be here in person, watch our PORT ST. JOE CAM on our website www.FLBeaches.net. Mounted above our Beach Realty office at 318-A Reid Avenue, you'll be able to see from our office back towards First Street. See what home town fun is all about.]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=160 10/28/10
Working with an experienced real estate agent has definite advantages. First, it is their business to know the current market for homes similar to yours. Agents have a vast array of tools as well as experience in determining the best listing price for your home. As your agent, they can give you tips to help you with your decision to sell.

The National Association of Realtors suggests four (4) things you might want to consider when setting a price for selling your home.

1. How many homes are for sale in your neighborhood? If the answer is several, you want your home to be listed at the lower end of the price range, making it more appealing to buyers.

2. You have to consider foreclosures and short sale properties into the equation. If other homes in your neighborhood are not kept up and in poor condition, you should not use their price to consider setting yours. But, if the other homes for sale are in excellent conditions and are priced lower, you have to take those homes into consideration when reaching a selling price.

3. Negotiate decisively. Try not to negotiate back and forth, which sometimes can make buyers walk away from the sale.

4. Make price adjustments when necessary. If after listing your house for sale, you do not have any activity such as showings, telephone calls or no one attends your open houses, the price is too high. Be ready to mark your price down to spark some interest.

Your real estate agent is your best friend. He or she will listen when you speak to them, and you should listen when they give you their suggestions and recommendations. Selling your home is an important step in your life, and your agent's wisdom and expertise will help you tremendously to effect a smooth transaction that will be remembered for a long time. ]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=158 09/28/10
If you visit Killer Seafood in Mexico Beach, you'll find the TV on a football game. Oh, by the way, they've still got flounder available even though they sold out of mullet already today. If you go into Gulf Foods in Mexico Beach for your grocery items, you'll find them watching football games. They have the freshest cuts of meats just waiting for the grill on your deck.

In Port St. Joe at The Port Inn Thirsty Goat Bar, you can watch the games on Saturdays after eating a complimentary breakfast made to your liking every morning. What better way to enjoy steamed or raw oysters or shrimp than at the Indian Pass Rawbar while watching football games. Of course, Jimmy McNeil probably will only let you watch the University of Florida games (he's a HUGE Florida fan).

Of course, if you're not a big football fan, there's always the beaches to enjoy. It's still very hot here, the sun shines just about every day, and the beaches are gorgeous. St. Joe Bay scalloping season has ended, but that shouldn't stop anyone from going out in their boat and taking in the beauty of the grass flats, fishing for redfish, trout and flounder or crabing. A very popular destination for boaters on weekends is St. Joe Point, where you can pull your boat up to the beach, stake your claim with your umbrella, cooler and beach chair, and discuss local football games with your friends.

Another topic of discussion might be the local real estate market. With a lot of talk about a slow market all over the country, our area seems to not be listening. Since the beginning of September, 29 properties have sold ranging from $16,500 to $700,000 in sales. An additional 37 properties have pending contracts or are contingent upon terms. The contract prices for these range from $27,000 to $849,000.

According to information from the Florida Association of Realtors, interest rates for 30 year mortgages climbed this past week as well as the week before. Interest rates, however, are still at the lowest rates in decades. A survey taken this week indicates 57% of the mortgage industry experts think rates will remain unchanged, 43% think the rates will rise and no one thinks rates will fall.

With all of that said, now still looks to be the best time to buy real estate. With all the beauty our local beaches have to provide, with interest rates low, and with an abundance of properties to see, what better place and time than HERE and NOW to find your next investment property, new home or weekend getaway. Come see us and see for yourself why we love it here and would love to have you as a new neighbor. We can enjoy local seafood, go fishing or just talk football. It's your choice.

Brenda G. Miller, GRI, Realtor
850-227-5380 cell
Brenda@FLBeaches.net
]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=157 09/18/10
This weekend, Mexico Beach is going to be featured by having an Aloha Festival. They want to say "Aloha Summer, Aloha Fall" by having Music in the Park tonight starting at 6 PM CDT featuring The Bo Spring Band. Continuing on Friday, Movies Under the Stars will begin at dark at Palm Park just off 7th Street showing "50 First Dates".

But that's not all. On Saturday morning, the Beach Blast Triathlon at Beacon Hill Park will start early. Then Saturday afternoon will feature the Luau Party. The Aloha Festival will wrap up at the El Governor Motel with Stainless Steel kicking off the party at 5 PM CDT and the Kevin Jacobs Band at 8 PM. Free food, live music and games for the kids. COME JOIN US.

Real estate is still in full swing. I mentioned in my last post that 141 properties either sold or were placed under contract during August. For September's first few days, 31 properties have already seen action. Ten properties have sold and 21 have contracts on them. Prices range from $16,500 to $849,000.

If you or your lender have the money, we have the propertites. There are currently over 1,400 properties for sale from Eastpoint to Mexico Beach with prices starting at $5,600.

Speaking of lenders, according to The Associated Press in an article dated Sept. 3, 2010, mortgage rates fell to the lowest level in decades for the tenth time in 11 weeks. The average rate for a 30-year fixed loan was 4.32 percent, down from 4.36 percent last week according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. Thats the lowest since Freddie Mac began tracking rates in 1971.

The average rate on a 15-year fixed loan dropped to 3.83 percent from 3.86 percent the previous week. Thats the lowest on records starting in 1991.

If you're thinking of buying and need assistance from a lender, contact your local bank today and see if you qualify for these record low interest rates. When you are approved, contact Beach Realty of Cape San Blas and we will help you find the perfect new home, second home or investment property to suit your needs.

We will be looking for you this weekend!

Brenda G. Miller, GRI, Realtor
Beach Realty of Cape San Blas
318-A Reid Avenue
Port St. Joe, Florida 32456
850-227-5380 cell
850-229-9000 office
Brenda@FLBeaches.net
www.FLBeaches.net
]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=156 09/09/10
If you're thinking of visiting Port St. Joe and Gulf County, you can't miss the PoJo Live Music Fest being held in the beautiful Sand Hill Park on the Bay by St. Joe Marina. Entertainment includes 5 live bands including King Billy, LaVie, King Cotton, Bo Springs Band and DejaBlue Gass Band. For more information, go to
www.pojolivemusicfest.com .

During the month of August, 50 properties were sold in our area according to our MLS statistics. Prices ranged from $6,000 to $610,000. Another 91 properties had contracts written and were placed either under contract or contingent upon terms. Those prices ranged from $7,900 to $1,299,000. Can you say HOT HOT HOT!!

Interest rates are at an all time low and there is an abundance of properties on the market to choose from. Prices are very low compared to a few years ago, making it a Buyers' market all around. Banks still have a surplus of foreclosed properties on hand, and are looking for Buyers. All of the above makes this the perfect time to start looking for your new home or new second home. Don't let the sun set on your dreams of owning a home in Florida.

Call Beach Realty today and speak to one of our knowledgeable agents. We're waiting to hear from you.

Brenda G. Miller, GRI, Realtor
Beach Realty
850-227-5380 cell
Brenda@FLBeaches.net


]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=155 09/03/10
St. Joe Corporation had their old office building on First Street demolished yesterday, much to the dismay of several people who stood and watched as the thick outer layers of the building were torn apart. The big yellow monster clawing at the building then worked on her insides until slowly she gave in, moaning and groaning with each swipe.

Current and former employees of St. Joe Corporation stood and watched, some with tears in their eyes and others having to look away every so often. Each watched as their old offices were demolished to rubble. One lady asked if we could smell what she was smelling. She said the building had it's own smell, and she could smell it out there on the sidewalk. Memories were made there, and they were falling apart with each red brick that hit the pavement.

Prior to St. Joe Corporation using the building as offices, the building housed the Apalachicola Northern Railroad offices. Standing since around 1907, she had been used by many people. Former railroad employees also gathered yesterday to watch the demise of the old girl, talking about their years of service within her walls.

It's said that St. Joe Corporation has a new use for the property, and another building will be built in its place with new tenants. Life goes on, but that doesn't mean you have to forget those that have passed along the way. Good Bye Old Friend. You are already missed.]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=154 08/31/10
Wow! I said summer was official over, but the real estate summer is still in full swing. Did you know since the first of August, there have been 65 properties sold or placed under contract in our area? That is a great boost to those wondering if the real estate slump is getting worse or better. Sales are good and varied including land, condos, single family homes, townhouses and even commercial properties. Prices ranged from $11,500 to $849,000, with the average price bringing $161,000.

Whether you're an investor, looking for a second home or are a first time homebuyer, our area is an excellent location to start your search. We would love to have you as a new neighbor. Call one of our knowledgeable agents to assist you with your search, and find your unbelievable deal today.

This coming weekend is Labor Day. Come on down, there's plenty of room and definitely NO OIL. Be Safe on the Roads.

Brenda G. Miller, GRI, Realtor
Beach Realty of Cape San Blas
850-227-5380 cell
Brenda@FLBeaches.net
]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=153 08/28/10
HOWEVER, it does NOT mean the end of summer deals in our beaches and inland areas. As I mentioned in my last blog, August is off to a healthy start with sales. In the last three days, three (3) more contracts have been written indicating to me Buyers are still serious about finding good deals. A 3 bedroom 1 bath brick home in Blountstown had a contract written over the weekend. The house was listed at $75,000, and is expected to close by the end of this week.

Another home in Gulf Pines saw action with a contract being written for the 3 bedroom 3 bath 1792SF home listed at $290,000, which was bank owned and had owner financing. The opportunities to buy your dream home are everywhere if you will contact one of our knowledgeable local agents, tell them what you are looking for, and be prepared to buy by having your financing already in place.

The third property with a contract written was a 2 bedroom 1 bath beach cottage only one block from the beach on 26th Street in Mexico Beach. Listing price was $170,000. Can you imagine owning a home that close to the beach at that price?

FEATURED PROPERTY:
Sheryl Bradley recently listed a property that is worth mentioning to our readers. If you or someone you know is looking to buy in our area and have time as well as money to invest, this property might just be perfect for them. The house is located in Port St. Joe at 228 8th Street, which is in the first block from St. Joe Bay. Can you say scalloping, fishing, sunsets, oh my! It is a two story 3,794SF heated and cooled, 5,575SF total home with 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. It is zoned commercial, single family or multi-use, which makes it ideal for a bed and breakfast or duplex property and because there are 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on each floor. And this is what makes it so ideal: $159,000 LISTING PRICE!!! Unbelievable price. With some painting and sprucing up, you could have a money maker on your hands. Remember I said Bed and Breakfast above? How convenient to be two blocks from downtown, one block from the bay, restaurants everywhere and a city boat ramp within two blocks.

Port St. Joe, the beaches and Cape San Blas have seen so many visitors this summer. Numerous people traveled from Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama to stay at one of our lovely beaches. And they liked it. We have heard several people say they didn't realize our beaches were so beautiful, and they want to continue coming back each year. And this is in addition to our regular visitors that have been coming for years and years. If you haven't already, isn't it time you came for a visit or an extended stay?

Scallop season is still in full swing, and will be until September 10th. The Scallop and Music Festival this weekend saw lots of action with some of the best music entertainment I've seen in years. And the scallops were fantastic. I personally gave directions to two different people wanting to buy scallops to take home rather than eat at the festival. All I can say is "You should have been here if you weren't".

Call Me.
Brenda G. Miller, GRI, Realtor
Beach Realty of Cape San Blas
318-A Reid Avenue
Port St. Joe, Florida 32456
850-227-5380 cell
850-229-9000 office
Brenda@FLBeaches.net
www.FLBeaches.net
]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=152 08/09/10
It's August and its Hot Hot Hot. Sure, the weather is hot but that's what the beaches are for. Cool, green AND CLEAN waters just waiting for you. But I am talking about the real estate market in our area. If you are a serious investor and happen to have some cash at hand, there are fantastic buys out there waiting for the picking.

Already in August, there have been three sales with unheard of sales prices for cash buyers. A Waterside Village canal front home with 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, 1700SF sold for $159,250. Yes, I said canal front with access to the Gulf. A canal front condo in Waterside Village 2 bedrooms 2 baths 1019SF sold for $120,000 cash. If you've been watching our market and missed those, call us at 850-229-9000 or 850-227-9000 and we'll console you why you cry. More importantly, we'll help you find your own fantastic property at an unheard of price, and will feature you on our blog next time.

In addition to those sales, a home on the Dead Lakes in Wewahitchka sold for $15,000 cash. Can you believe it? The perfect little fisherman's cabin on the famous Dead Lakes with excellent fishing and world famous Tupelo Honey.

In July, our MLS shows there were 36 properties sold in our area. A lot in Stillwater South in Gulf County close to the Franklin County line sold for $6,500. On Cape San Blas, a gulf front lot in Ovation sold for $299,000. Another gulf front lot in Feather Sound sold for $220,000. Prices haven't been this low in a long time. I am just so excited.

The beaches are clean, the sand is white, the fish are biting and you're not here. What's wrong with this picture? Make plans to visit one of our beaches before school starts and your family doesn't have the time to come. If you can't come, give us a call and find out why we are so excited about the real estate market. If it's late at night, check out our Beach Realty of Cape San Blas Facebook page. We're always there.

Brenda G. Miller, Realtor
Sales Associate
Brenda@FLbeaches.net
850-227-5380 cell
]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=151 08/04/10
If you are a repeat visitor, you might have noticed they were closed last year. The owners had pruned the plants and they did not have enough time to recover for last summers season. However these plants are producing a great harvest. The cost is only $2.50 / pound. Bring some bug spray and get ready to have a fun family adventure.
]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=150 07/21/10
To see a live feed of the well, go to the following link or cut and paste and put into your browser.

http://www.bp.com/liveassets/bp_internet/globalbp/globalbp_uk_english/incident_response/STAGING/local_assets/html/Skandi_ROV2.html

Till next time

Billy Blog]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=149 07/09/10
Where do I begin? There is so much to talk about, from the Salt Air Market to next months Scallop Festival but nothing more pressing than the Deepwater Horizon Oil situation. The question on everyones mind Is there oil on the beach. I am happy to report at this time, we do not have any, Zero, Zilch oil on the beaches of Cape San Blas, Indian Pass or even Mexico Beach. We are oil free, except of course for sun tan oil and the water is beautiful.   It is possible to have oil in the future, but at this time, the oil is miles and miles from the beaches of Gulf County.

Come down and enjoy the beaches and the beautiful St Joseph Bay. We are in the middle of Scallop Season and the harvest is going great. Remember you need a Florida Saltwater fishing license to harvest scallops from the bay. Coming soon is a scallop recipe that will make your mouth water!

Lastly, if you are interested in owning a part of the Forgotten Coast, please call and contact me. We still have some foreclosures that can be purchased at attractive prices.

Till next time,

Billy Blog
]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=148 07/07/10 http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=147 07/06/10 http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=144 06/18/10 http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=145 06/18/10
CAPE TRADIN' POST    Open 7 days 7:30AM until 10:00PM

Items for sale include: liquor, beer, wine, soft drinks, snacks, fresh made pizza, hot wings, fresh cut meat, some produce, cleaning supplies, can goods, bag ice, beach supplies, tourist gifts, fishing licience, tackle and bait, fire wood, video rental and some hardware.

SCALLOP COVE BP      Open 7 days 6:30AM until 11:00PM

Items for sale include: gasoline, hot dogs, BBQ, beer and wine, soft drinks, snacks, beach supplies, firewood, bag ice, canoe/kayak rentals, cleaning supplies, extensive fishing tackle and bait selection and fishing licience.

CONE HEADS DELI   Open M-F 11AM 'til 8PM, SAT. 11AM-9PM

Serving lunch and dinner[closed Sunday] with salads, wraps, sandwiches and burgers. Serving beer and wine. Limited gifts.

If you cannot find something at one of these outlets; then you must drive 15 miles into Port St. Joe. Have a great stay in this very special area. ]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=143 05/28/10 http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=141 05/25/10 http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=142 05/25/10
May 7 - Plein Air Painters hold a luncheon [12 -1PM] at the Port St. Joe Marina. That will give you the opportunity to meet the artists. They will be painting downtown on Reid Ave. that afternoon.

May 7 - First Friday at the Port Inn in Port St. Joe. Free live music, snacks, wine and beer and an artist displaying paintings. Always fun starting at 6PM and ending about 9PM. This is the first of these friday get togethers. The event is held each month through September; so mark your calendars.

May 8 - Plein Air artists will be painting on the Apalachicola waterfront. Stop by and introduce yourself and watch them create a masterpiece.]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=138 05/06/10
The weather is warm [80's] and our area is beautiful this time of year, so don't change plans to visit. The fishing is great and the Gulf is 72 degrees now with plenty of cobia, pompano, flounder, mackerel, trout and redfish to satisfy any fisherman.]]> http://www.flbeaches.net/blog.cfm?id=139 05/06/10