My New Blog

I have recently added Hendry County to my coverage area.  Currently covering Lee, Collier, Charlotte and Hendry Counties.  Hendry is considered a secondary area with rates available upon request.

With the dollar at low levels and attractive Real Estate prices in Southwest Florida, winter residents from Canada are getting a bargain.  Prices in Cape Coral are at two year lows which are one of the best deals around.  Canadians are coming to our area and enjoying the combination of attractive prices and the dollar advantage.  This is a new source of business for many real estate professionals. 

I once worked at a Real Estate office that also joined the Toronto MLS.  This was some years ago, but may be a great tool for local Realtors to market their listings.  If you are targeting the Canadian buyer it is advised to check out the Toronto MLS.

Appraisers can be helpful to make an informed decision to get the right price.  Whether buying a waterfront condo on Captiva, or a manufactured home in North Ft. Myers, consider having an appraisal before making that offer. This is especially true if you are a cash buyer not using a lender.  Local appraisers know the market and can help to save hundreds or thousands of dollars and can also help to properly insure the property.

My services include Lee County, Charlotte County, and Collier County.  All are popular destinations for winter residents and retirees.  It is a great time to take advantage of the lower prices and lower US dollar for our Canadian friends.

AVM's can be a useful tool, however there are particular problems in using these in Southwest Florida.  AVM's and other search devices do not always distinguish the various types of waterfront found in our area.  Also AVM's do not always know a qualified sale compared to disqualified, or whether a builder closed on a contract written over a year ago.

These all require the knowledge of an experienced Real Estate Professional.  AVM's have a place in our industry, but should not be relied upon for accurate valuation.

I would invite comments from Cape Coral Realtors and Lenders.  It appear that Cape Coral is getting sales activity after drastic declines during 2007.  I am seeing sales contract and days on market under 30 days for existing homes built in th 80's.

Prices under $130,000 seem to be the magical level to entice buyers.  It appears that Cape Sellers in these older homes have the room to reduce.  I am not seeing pricing at these levels elsewhere.

Could it be that the Cape is finding it's bottom.  Certainly compared to other areas of Lee County,  this is where the bargains are.