MRI Overseas Property, Orlando HQ

Orlando Magic!

2009-06-04T12:59:00.001-04:00

Orlando Magic from MRI Overseas Property and MacAnthony Realty International

Not only has Orlando got Disney's Magic Kingdom, we also have the Orlando Magic basketball team who have fought their way to the NBA Finals. The next 10 days brings an exciting final between the legendary Los Angeles Lakers (supported by the likes of Jack Nicholson and Leonardo Di Caprio) and our own Orlando Magic team. We are all excited at the prospect of The Magic taking their place as champions of the NBA.

Everything happens in Orlando - 58 million people visited Florida last year and the opportunities for property buyers are quite simply, unbelievable!

MRI Overseas Property are offering some magical deals at the moment, on single family homes, townhouses and condos, with prices starting at an amazingly low $130,000. In some cases prices in the area have dropped by 50%. So, NOW is the time to take advantage of all the opportunities available by contacting our helpful team.

Orlando still most popular US destination!

2009-04-29T15:45:00.001-04:00

The American Society of Travel Agents once again ranked Orlando the nation’s most popular summer destination.

The association’s poll of its members, called 2009 Hot Spots for Summer, found 17.2 percent said Orlando is the summer’s top travel destination. Las Vegas followed with 16 percent. The two cities have been the top destinations for seven years running.

Other cities in the top 10 were San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, Honolulu, San Diego, Washington, D.C., Chicago and New York.

The survey also looked at international destinations and found Western Europe remains the most popular. London was the top-ranked destination with 9.9 percent of the votes, followed by Rome with 9 percent.

Orlando home sales rose in February

2009-03-10T15:45:00.001-04:00

From the Orlando Business Journaal:

Orlando area home sales grew 28 percent in February, but values fell 34.8 percent, according to the Orlando Regional Realtor Association.

Association members sold 1,219 existing homes last month, which compares to 951 sold in the same month a year prior. Orlando Realtors also reported a total of 4,348 homes under contract — considered an indicator of future sales activity — in February, nearly double the 2,175 pending sales in February 2008.

But the median price of Orlando homes sold in February fell 34.8 percent, from $223,150 last year to $145,500 this year. However, continued falling median prices improved the Orlando area’s affordability index to a record high of 169.17 percent. An affordability index of more than 100 means buyers earning the state-reported median income of $52,193 can qualify for a median-priced home.

Sales of existing homes in the Orlando metropolitan statistical area — Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties — last month jumped 29 percent, from 1,176 in 2008 to 1,519 this year.

Local new-home builders reported 122 new-home sales for the month of February, with a median price of $234,950.

A total of 154 single-family homes, the most in that category, sold in February 2009 in the $200,000-$250,000 price range.

Condos resales by association members totaled 195 in February, a 71 percent jump from the 114 sold in February 2008. The highest number of condos in a single price category, 93, sold for up to $50,000, while two condos sold for more than $1 million in February.

Duplex, townhome and villa resales totaled 102 last month, up 29 percent from February 2008’s 79.

A total of 22,168 homes were for sale through the Multiple Listing Service in February, while 455 more homes left the market than entered the market. That reflects an 18 percent supply of homes at the current sales pace.

All homes spent an average of 102 days on the market before selling in February 2009, and the average home sold for 93 percent of its listing price, up slightly from January 2009’s 92.6 percent and February 2008’s 92.9 percent.

MRI Overseas Property says: SuperBowl 2009 and 2010 and a Super time to buy property in Florida with MRI Overseas Property!

2009-01-23T10:14:00.001-05:00

With only 10 days to go until this year's Super Bowl XLIII, excitement is reaching fever pitch for both Steelers and Cardinals fans alike. Amongst those they'll be cheering for in this game are stars, Kurt Warner and Ben Roethlisberger. And to make the day truly memorable, The Boss himself, Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street band will be "kicking out the jams" at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

Which means that, now is the time to make sure that you're here for the next game by taking advantage of the superb offers currently available on thousands and thousands of properties in Florida. MRI Overseas Property can show you some of the finest and most keenly priced property around and now is the perfect time to buy. With interest rates at an historic low and prices having fallen to a level not seen here for years, Florida is now offering the discerning buyer a wonderful opportunity to own their own home or townhouse or villa, close to where the Super Bowl XLIV is being played in 2010, at the Dolphin Stadium, in Miami. This new year 2009 has begun already with the historic inauguration of the new President, the first African-American, Barack Obama: and we're now poised to continue to have America, and especially Florida, move forward with massive confidence and a positive focus and momentum. The recent moves by Congress to free up even more funds for business means that property is a great choice at the moment. And don't forget, Orlando has and always will remain popular with the tens of millions of visitors that come each year! It is really set to start motoring again!

And who knows? Next year you and your family could be vacationing here and going to the football game yourself... or maybe renting your property out to some other lucky people. It's the time to buy and a super place to live! Ask any of the thousands of people who've moved here over the years, whether from America or Europe. And MRI Overseas property has sold to a LOT of these people over these years (you could say they've been bowl-ed over by MRI and the team!), which is why they keep coming back to us for new, exciting buying opportunities.

Don't forget that Florida is also home to many famous names; sports super-stars such as Tiger Woods (here in the exclusive Windermere development in Orlando), NBA basketball players, Shaquille O'Neal and Jamal Mashburn, the golfers Ernie Els and Nick Faldo, movie stars like John Travolta (with a home in Ocala) and David Caruso, star of CSI: Miami, rap artist Sean "P Diddy" Coombs, actor Matt Damon and singers Gloria Estefan, Lenny Kravitz and Beyonce all with property and homes in Miami. And of course, the queen of the talk shows, Oprah Winfrey. Then there's the Versace House, "Casa Casuarina" on the world famous Ocean Drive, which following his death, is now a tourist attraction.

And even if you're not a football fan, remember that Florida has so much more to offer with the traditional favourites, Disney and The Magic Kingdom (this year you get free admission on your birthday!), Universal Studios with its restaurants, rides, bars and the world famous City Walk night spots (and they will soon open the latest attraction; the world exclusive Harry Potter spectacular) and Sea World with Shamu the killer whale, all continuing to attract visitors, young and old, year in year out, to share in the fun, the sun and the gorgeous all-year round climate. Or for those in search of a slower pace, why not take a lazy drive down to the very bottom of the state of Florida, to the beautiful, exotic Keys, the most famous of which, Key West, has been the subject of films and music!

And if you need any more proof that Florida is a great place to buy, look no further than uber-financier and property mogul Donald Trump' decision to open his own, private estate complete with night-club, Mar Largo, in Palm Beach or the prestigious Trump Towers in Miami.

With so many people having made the decision to buy here already, now is the time for you to get in on the excitement, so don't hesitate, contact MRI Overseas Property immediately:

email:info@mrioverseasproperty.com
Tel: +1 407 397 977

Tourists are being tempted, so come on over!

2009-01-13T17:09:00.001-05:00

Freebies offered to Orlando tourists

Orlando Business Journal

The campaign is part of the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau’s 2009 promotional campaign launched last month called Orlando Makes Me Smile.

The Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau’s newest salvo in the battle to attract tourists in a slumping economy is a half-year offer of discounts at area hotels and attractions.

The package includes 50 free offers and runs through June 30. There are two blackout periods: Easter week and Memorial Day weekend. Offers include free hotel room nights and admission to rides and attractions.

The offer is part of the bureau’s 2009 promotional campaign launched last month called Orlando Makes Me Smile. Information on the program, called Bundles of Free Smiles, is available on the Web at www.bundlesoffreesmiles.com or by calling (888) 675-4386.

Hotel properties participating in the campaign include Rosen Shingle Creek, Orlando World Center Marriott, Westgate Resorts and WorldQuest Resort. Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World Resort and Southwest Airlines are offering discount vacation packages. Attractions offering discounts include SeaWorld Orlando, Boggy Creek Airboat Rides, Orlando Balloon Rides and Pirate's Dinner Adventure.

Huge demand for property in the Dominican Republic

2009-01-08T17:35:00.001-05:00

MRI Overseas Property sees a huge rise in demand for the Dominican Republic

MRI Overseas Property has been offering fantastic properties to its clients in the Dominican Republic for some years now, but even we were pleasantly surprised at the level of enquiries over the last month.

There was huge demand via our web site, with enquiries for The Dominican outweighing any others and our telephones were ringing off the hooks with calls asking for more information.

Is it the year-round fantastic weather, the thought of the Caribbean sea and beaches or something else?

It may well be the golfing facilities which are some of the finest anywhere in the world.

Read on for some details on what you can expect. And if this taste of the delights of the Dominican Republic has whet your appetites, contact us straight away to talk about viewing properties there!

A favourite golfing destination of former US Presidents Bill Clinton and George H. Bush, the Dominican Republic has become one of the hottest spots to tee-off in the Caribbean, if not the world. Here golfers will find 19 courses with ocean-front fairways and dog-leg lefts around swaying coconut palms. They'll also find courses designed by legends such as Pete Dye, P.B. Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones, Gary Player, Tom Fazio and Nick Faldo.

The next few years are especially important for DR golf as five new courses are scheduled to open throughout 2008 and 2009. But visitors to the Dominican Republic needn't worry about packing golf clubs or even knowing how to golf, for that matter. Each course offers affordable club rentals and internationally recognized golf pros for lessons. Regardless of handicap, the courses of the Dominican Republic promise a challenging and unique experience.

Within 90 minutes drive of Punta Cana/Bavaro, there are 13 golf courses. Here are our personal favourites:

Dye Fore - The newest course and the third by Pete Dye to open at the luxurious Casa de Campo resort in La Romana is unique, with a 300-foot deep river gorge, Mediterranean village, mountains and the Caribbean Sea as backdrops. The course itself is expansive, measuring a long 7,770 feet with fairways 200-feet wide. Although visually intimidating, the course is very playable and golfers have been raving about the new addition.

Teeth of the Dog - Consistently ranked by golf experts as one of the top 50 courses in the world, Teeth of the Dog is located at Casa de Campo resort in La Romana. The course features several signature Dye formations along with seven oceanfront holes, four on the front nine and three on the back, and is considered extra challenging due to the tricky sea breezes. The course opened in 1971 and recently had its teeth sharpened and lengthened. It re-opened in November of 2005.

Punta Cana Resort & Club's La Cana Golf Course
Located at Punta Cana Resort & Club, every hole within this P.B. Dye-designed championship course captures the scenery of the Caribbean with 14 ocean-view and four ocean-front holes. In fact, the 18th hole has been said to resemble the infamous 18th hole at Pebble Beach. And, according to Dye, the 7th hole is golfer's purgatory!

Punta Blanca - The new five-star Majestic Colonial Punta Cana Beach Resort features a casino, spa and an 18-hole golf course designed by Nick Price. Punta Blanca celebrated its grand opening May of 2007 with Nick Price inaugurating the course.

Cocotal Golf and Country Club - The 18-hole course, designed by six-time Spanish champion Jose Pepe Gancedo, uses the natural terrain of an old coconut plantation and includes serene lakes and palm trees in its landscape. In 2002, an additional nine-hole course opened.

Punta Espada Golf Course - The initial golf course to open at luxurious Cap Cana is Punta Espada, the first Jack Nicklaus Signature Course in the Dominican Republic. World renowned golf course management team Troon Golf staffs the 7,382 yard-long 18-hole course. The architecture utilized the area's bluffs, beach, waterways and jungle foliage with eight of the holes directly on the ocean.

Roco Ki Golf Club - One of the newest projects announced for the Macao Beach area is The Faldo Legacy Course at Roco Ki Golf Club. An 18-hole championship course, The Faldo Legacy Course will thrill golfers of every ability with its challenging cliffside and ocean-view holes, tropical mangrove forest and lagoon. Troon Golf will also manage this course.

The Titanic has landed...

2009-01-08T10:00:00.001-05:00

...just down the block from our Orlando offices.

This attraction, sure to be a hit with the holiday visitors milling along International Drive, opened at the end of last year.

So, whilst you're there (and have a look at this video to whet your appetite), why not call into the offices of the world famous real estate company as well and consider all the fabulous properties on offer?

Now is a great time to buy, with a huge inventory of property, one of which is bound to be ideal for you and your family and friends and interest rates at an historic low.

Contact MRI Overseas Property on +1 407 397 9777 or just call in when you're in the area to 7220 International Drive, Orlando, Florida. 32819.

La belle France; or some reasons to buy in France...

2009-01-06T15:48:00.001-05:00

Picasso, Matisse and Renoir fell in love with the wonderful natural coastline of the magical French Riviera as well as the well established social circuit, set against a backdrop of fine architecture, the most prevalent of which is that of the "Belle Epoque" school.

Cannes, Nice, St Jean Cap Ferrat and Monte Carlo continue to be sophisticated and cosmopolitan, with so much to do throughout the year. A Christmas break can include skiing and tobogganing for a few hours in Greolieres, ice skating in Nice and Monaco, guided tours in most languages of the different historic old towns, a visit to one of the top class museums devoted to Matisse or Chagall, while those who cannot make it for the Monaco Grand Prix (21 - 24 May 2009) can tour or drive the F1 circuit in a Ferrari 360 Modena Spider at €85.00 as a driver, or a very reasonable €45.00 as a passenger (www.livenupmonaco.com). This rate is somewhat less than a Nice taxi driver would ask for a reasonable short journey! Designer shopping is a given, with Rolex, Chanel, Dior, YSL, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Chopard and Vertu, all with stand alone boutiques along the coast.

MRI Overseas Property France Director Geoffrey Donoghue states that whether it is a beach front villa, an ubercool penthouse or a Provencal house that is required, his team of trained professionals have access to the best properties locally. MRI Overseas Property´s local team of Sales Executives as well as members of the "in house" Aftersales and Listings Departments are mostly local Nice, Cannes or Menton born with invaluable connections in the market, including Monaco. It is not surprising that many famous property owners past and present have found the French Riviera the perfect location for holidaying or retirement including Bono and The Edge of U2, Sir Elton John and Sir David Niven. Duncan Ballatyne and James Caan of Dragon´s Den are long time owners here also.

Despite what is going on at present in the world, consistent demand remains for property on the French Riviera. Clients from as far afield as UK, Scandinavian countries and the Russian Federation who all see the market as a safe, highly regulated and secure place to purchase for holidays or relocate.

Due to the authorities restriction on allowing much new build along the coast, demand is strong. We at MRI Overseas Property France have some interesting modern apartments worth looking into soon as an entry level to the Cote D´Ázur at Antibes and Cannes. Our independent Rental Agents are happy to help with long and short term rentals and are happy to confirm rates before purchase. Financing locally is available. Remember France´s economy is still growing, a fact that President Sarkosy is proud of and is a result of a cautious and steady financial sector.

Clarification by MRI' new CEO

2009-01-02T11:43:00.001-05:00

NEW CEO AND DIRECTION FOR MRI OP
MRI Overseas Property, DCC International Property

Ending speculation on various trade and investor blogs, the new CEO of MRI Overseas Property, Dominic Pickering, has outlined the company’s plans to focus on construction in 2009.

“We launched 7 or 8 years ago and started constructing at the midway point,” said Pickering. “Most of our profit now comes from construction and the day to day demands, and costs, of marketing are no longer our main focus.”

Pickering told OPP that MRI had gone through a major restructure in the last 3-6 months, closing some of its offices and laying off some staff as the company downsized to adapt to current market conditions. While the board is largely unchanged – Darragh Macanthony is chairman, Paul O’Mahoney is director of construction, and James Forester is marketing director – a significant change is the absence of former CEO Michael Liggan.

“Marketing was always Michael’s forte, so he has set up his own venture,” said Pickering. “This is not an acrimonious departure, and we hope he will send some buyers our way”. This new venture, called DCC International Property, was recently set up by Michael Liggan and is currently promoting projects in Cyprus, Bulgaria, Portugal, Romania, Spain and USA.

Independent venture
Confirming that DCC was “completely independent” of MRI Overseas Property, Liggan told OPP that: “DCC doesn't have an exclusive agreement to market or sell MRI developments and currently doesn't have any other exclusive agreements for the many other developments it will be marketing”.

Clarifying the relationship with MRI and its board, Liggan added: “I have a very close relationship to Darragh MacAnthony; not only was I the CEO for his group of companies for many years but I am also his best friend. Because of this a lot of industry people have assumed that DCC is really MRI in disguise when that simply isn't the case. The truth of the situation is that Darragh wants to focus more of his time on developing and constructing projects around the world and also developing his football club Peterborough United and trying to get them promoted this season and in the next season until they're in the Premiership.

“With Darragh not wanting to focus on taking over yet more of his ‘territories’ for his real estate company there is an opportunity for someone like me to want to do this and I believe the industry needs it. With Darragh planning on downsizing MRI Overseas Property I felt that now is the obvious time to go for it. Yes, we're going through a worldwide credit crunch but times like this are often considered the best time to start a new company and for me that means I have direct access to taking on some of the best staff in the industry and also some of the best offices out there”.

Since DCC is currently promoting MRI projects, and occupying some of the MRI offices that had been closed down, there have been rumours of a rebrand. “It’s not a rebrand,” added Pickering. “We’ve spent 8 years building the MRI brand. We offered DCC the option of taking on the leases of some of our office space in Cyprus and Spain. They took up the offer and have even recruited some of the people we had to let go.”

Outlining plans going forward, Pickering said that it would not be relying on the same traditional marketing methods to sell homes. “As constructors, we still know how to sell,” he said. “But rather than spending thousands on stands at property exhibitions, we will be building a network of agents to partner with. We still have thousands upon thousands of clients on our database who have either purchased or shown interest, so we have various options open to us, but our aim is to build sales networks in the UK, Europe and the US.”

While MRI’s headquarters will remain in Spain, Pickering is based in Orlando in the US and is currently in negotiation with local partners to build this network. He also told OPP that MRI had been actively banking land in Europe and the US over the last year to support its focus on construction.

© www.opp.org.uk

More reasons to buy in Florida!

2008-12-30T15:20:00.001-05:00

Travel + Leisure magazine has come out with its annual list of the 500 best hotels in the world and Florida has landed 28 on the list from the Panhandle to Disney to the Keys.

Disney landed three of its own hotels on the list including the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Grand Floridian and Wilderness Lodge, and the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress near Downtown Disney was also included. Disney competitor Universal also made the list with the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. Two other Orlando-area hotels -- the Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes and Grand Bohemian Hotel in downtown rounded out the Orlando-area hotels.

Orlando led the way for the most hotels in one area with seven followed by the Miami area with five and Palm Beach and Naples each with three.

Ponte Vedra in northeast Florida had two on the list as did the Florida Keys.

Rounding out the state with one hotel on the list each were the cities of Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Bonita Springs, Amelia Island, Santa Rosa Beach and St. Augustine.

Central Florida
Orlando Area -- Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Orlando Area -- Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Orlando Area -- Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Orlando Area -- Grand Bohemian Hotel
Orlando Area -- Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
Orlando Area -- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
Orlando Area -- Ritz-Carlton, Grande Lakes
Sarasota -- Ritz-Carlton
St. Petersburg -- Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club

South Florida
Bonita Springs -- Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa
Florida Keys -- Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
Florida Keys-- Pier House Resort & Caribbean Spa
Miami Area -- Four Seasons Hotel
Miami Area -- Mandarin Oriental
Naples -- Ritz-Carlton
Naples -- Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort
Palm Beach -- Four Seasons Resort
Palm Beach -- Ritz-Carlton
Palm Beach -- The Breakers

North Florida
Amelia Island -- Ritz-Carlton
Ponte Vedra -- Ponte Vedra Inn & Club
Ponte Vedra -- The Lodge & Club
Santa Rosa Beach -- WaterColor Inn & Resort
St. Augustine -- Casa Monica Hotel

The magazine's list ranks the Singita Sabi Sand at Kruger National Park Area in South Africa as the top place to stay in the world. The top place to stay in the U.S. (No. 5 in the world overall) is the Triple Creek Ranch in Darby, Mont.

The top Florida entry (No. 12 in the world overall) was also in their top 25 -- the Little Palm Island Resort & Spa on Little Torch Key

New MRI CEO looks forward to 2009 with excitement...

2008-12-19T15:26:00.001-05:00

20 years in the Real Estate and Finance industry has taught me that it’s all a matter of timing.

2008 was the correction period that was inevitable. That means that 2009 is the year of opportunity.

Over the last few months I have had the pleasure of speaking to, and working with, many of the new ‘movers and shakers’ of the Real Estate industry. They are making the moves right now that will ensure that they will secure their financial future. They are buying at the bottom of the market, knowing that the only way this market can go is up.

Yet many of these people are not the established wealthy. Not yet anyway. They are average investors that have been just waiting for the market to correct itself, so that they can take full advantage.

Over the next few months, we will see many of the transactions take place, that we will look back on in 2 or 3 years time and marvel at what amazing bargains were secured.

MRI has restructured itself during the later stages of 2008. I have taken over as CEO and my aim is to ensure that we continue to bring quality investment products to the market.

With that in mind, we are concentrating specifically on the apartments we build via the Construction arm of our company. History has proved time and time again that Real Estate will outstrip any other form of investment if given enough time, as long as you pick a good location and supply a high quality build. MRI has a track-record of providing both. 2008 saw us complete our first Bulgarian project, Aspen Golf, with 4 other projects hot on its heels, all which will complete on schedule and on budget.

We have also begun acquiring land in many other countries, using the very valuable insight we possess as to which markets are likely to show the most significant Capital Appreciation as the market turns positive again. In addition to just developing Real Estate, we are also launching some ground-breaking rental packages which will mean that investors can have peace-of-mind with regard to mortgage payments for as long as 10 years!

Producing more universally acclaimed developments is what we will continue to do throughout my tenure as CEO.

What you will see less of this year is MRI attending Property Exhibitions. We have decided to leave that to the many partners that we deal with throughout the world; independent companies that have the right ethics and attitude, and that we endorse to promote our products.

On a personal note, after many years in this industry with a variety of different companies, I am very excited to be given the opportunity to be at the helm of the industry leader. Particularly as I believe 2009 will be a pivotal year. It will be the year that we look back on as when the recovery happened, and I look forward to dealing with many clients this year who have the foresight to recognize that ‘now’ really is the time to invest in Real Estate for long-term wealth.

Join me and make this a great year for yourself.

Dominic Pickering
Chief Executive Officer
MRI

Handshake deal gets foreclosure reprieve...

2008-12-05T14:42:00.001-05:00

Governor Charlie Crist announced that many Florida banks have agreed to voluntarily delay scheduling foreclosure sales of homesteaded homes for 45 days. The non-binding resolution is a less dramatic action than the 90-day ban Crist sought to impose, but the volunteer effort has broad participation and the backing of the Florida Bankers' Association. Bank of America, Countrywide, JPMorgan Chase and Citigroup already announced similar delays or internal company-wide moratoriums. The delay extends only to banks that are members of the Florida Bankers' Association, which declined to release its roster Monday. [Miami Herald]

$4.7m port project for Florida and Disney

2008-11-21T15:58:00.001-05:00

The Port Canaveral Authority Board of Commissioners has awarded a $4.7 million contract for enhancements that will allow it to accommodate two new Disney Cruise Line ships that will hold more than 4,000 passengers each.

Misener Marine Construction of Tampa won the contract that includes building a deep-water seawall, additional moorings and dredging. The project, when engineering costs are factored in, is worth about $5.1 million.

The first of the new ships will arrive at the port in 2011 and the second comes a year later.

The port is also building a 1,000-space parking garage to handle additional traffic associated with the ships. Construction of the garage is expected to begin next May and finish in April 2010.

Mickey turns 80

2008-11-18T08:39:00.001-05:00

Mickey turns 80: "All you need to know about Walt Disney's favourite"

(Via BBC News.)

MRI Construction to launch development in Orlando

2008-10-22T11:17:00.001-04:00

MRI Construction to launch development in Orlando

MRI Construction is about to launch its first ever development stateside. The company will imminently announce its latest project, a large-scale international holiday resort in Orlando, Florida.

This project marks the next phase of its planned growth toward becoming a truly global property developer.

Designed specifically for investors looking to own a second home in the “tourism capital of the world”, this new project will offer properties to an extremely high standard, designed for holiday use and for rental through MRI’s own on-site management company.

While details are still under wraps, Paul O’Mahony, Managing Director of MRI Construction, said: “I can reveal that the development is somewhat different from what has come before from MRI, for reasons that will become obvious when we launch it.”

“There will be a tempting opening offer for current clients of the company,” he added.

Disney's new dinosaur-themed restaurant opens today

2008-10-14T15:22:00.001-04:00

New T-Rex restaurant at Downtown Disney

T-Rex is the kind of restaurant where parents might encourage their children to go dig in the dirt before dinner.

"It's nice dirt. It's clean dirt," said Keith Beitler, Landry's Restaurants' senior vice president and chief operating officer for specialty restaurants. "It's Disney dirt."

T-Rex is a big, brash dinosaur-themed restaurant that opens today at Downtown Disney with seating for more than 620, a couple of dozen life-size robotic dinosaurs and real fossils encased in the bathroom walls. Dishes include mushroom ravioli simmering in lobster cream sauce, with Roma tomatoes and fresh spinach.

Collaborators Landry's Restaurants, Schussler Creative and Walt Disney Imagineering, the team that brought Rainforest Cafe to Walt Disney World, aimed at going way beyond that themed restaurant, to create a more interactive mix of décor, show, dining and educational flourishes that Beitler called "eattainment."

Beginning with a children's fossil-dig pit -- where an entire set of replica T-Rex bones is buried -- the restaurant combines activities, prehistoric-themed shows of light, sound and robotic creatures, and American cuisine.

"When you build the Rainforest Cafe, and we did 45 in seven years, and you do Yak & Yeti, the expectations are pretty high," said Steven Schussler, whose company developed the T-Rex concept, just as it did concepts for Landry's Rainforest Cafe chain and Disney's Yak & Yeti restaurant. "People want to know: How do you outdo yourself? How do you make it even better? We tried -- we really tried -- to go over the top."

Expectations are indeed high. The Disney T-Rex occupies a front-and-center spot at Downtown Disney, and is Disney's first big new development in its plans for a new, more family-oriented dining, shopping and entertainment area. Just last month, Disney closed six Pleasure Island nightclubs, and their more-family-oriented replacements will be up to two years away, increasing an already-apparent deficit of dining space.

"T-Rex adds some of the needed seat capacity that we are so lacking down here at this point," said Downtown Disney Vice President Kevin Lansberry. "Plus it's unique . . . highly differentiated, interactive for kids, and it fills an almost attractionlike concept as well as a dining concept."

With T-Rex, open for lunch and dinner, and with prospects for breakfast parties, Beitler hopes it can serve 2,500 to 3,000 diners a day -- as many as 1 million per year.

Landry's, which operates 31 restaurant concepts including Landry's Seafood House, and The Chart House, adapted much of the menu from its other properties, tweaking them for prehistoric flair, Beitler said. Entrées include salads, soups, meat dishes such as the Mega Mes-O-Bones ribs, pastas, seafood and sandwiches. They run from $11.99 (for an 8-ounce Bronto Burger) to $29.99 (Triceratop filet.)

"We took everything we had, and put it around the theme of the restaurant," Beitler said. "We also understand that we are feeding middle America, and we're feeding overseas. We've got to do who we are. We've got to do American cuisine, with a prehistoric flair."

There's also a full-service bar (the Shark Bar) featuring $9.99 T-Rita Cotton Tinis, and a large gift shop that features a Build-A-Dino enterprise created by Build-A-Bear Workshop, where people can put together custom-made plush toys, starting at $15.

Schussler said the restaurant was designed so that first impressions would be "wow!" The outside decor features an exact life-size replica of a 140-foot long Argentinosaurus.

Inside the front door, visitors find a panorama of the Shark Bar with its glowing glass bar, 5,000-gallon shark tank and giant, robotic octopus; a life-size, robotic, tyrannosaurus rex; themed dining areas such as the Geo-Tech Room with its flaming walls; and Ice Cave with its glowing walls.

"Obviously, people come for the 'wow' factor, but they'll come back for quality food and service that Landry's provides," Schussler said. "Without that they wouldn't be coming back."

Downtown Disney's new restaurant appeals to the 'wow' factor

600 Employees

30,000 Square feet in size

620 Seats

$11.95 to $29.95 Entrée prices

$9.99 Cotton-candy

"Cotton-Tini" cocktail

7,000 Gallons of aquariums

140 Species of fish

-- Source: Schussler Creative

Good news: pending home sales rose 7.4% from July to August

2008-10-08T13:12:00.001-04:00

Pending home sales show surprise rise
The National Association of Realtors says pending home sales increased

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The National Association of Realtors says pending home sales rose 7.4% from July to August, an unexpected piece of positive news for the battered U.S. housing market.

The group said Wednesday its seasonally adjusted index of pending sales for existing homes rose to 93.4 from an upwardly revised July reading of 87. The reading was the highest since June 2007.

Wall Street economists surveyed by Thomson/IFR had predicted the index would fall to 84.9.

The index, which sunk to a record low of 83 in March, stood at 85.8 in August 2007.

Domestic travel down, international up at OIA

2008-10-01T15:02:00.001-04:00

Orlando International Airport has reported that its domestic passenger traffic declined 7.9 percent in August, but international traffic jumped 16 percent.

The airport recorded 2.975 million passengers during August, an overall 6.3 percent drop from the month before and the first time this year that passenger traffic fell below the three million mark. Poor economic conditions and airline service cuts were blamed for the decline.

During August, OIA registered 2.79 million domestic travelers, bringing the year’s total to nearly 23.6 million — a 0.29 increase over last year. There were 239,044 international travelers in August, bringing the year’s total to more than 1.87 million passengers, up 21.1 percent over last year.

The total number of passengers through August was 25.4 million, a 1.58 percent increase over the same period last year.

US home sales on the rise

2008-09-29T16:24:00.001-04:00

US home sales on the rise

Some good news from the heart of the credit crunch - according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the US, sales of existing homes are on the rise by 11% this autumn, as the immediate effects of the squeeze on mortgages bottoms out.

As the first signs of recovery show, it is worth bearing in mind the age-old addage: Buy when the market is at the bottom and sell when it is at the top. There are some real property bargains from MRI in Florida and Tennessee at the moment, and with the exchange rate still favourable (but predicted to drop before Christmas), the window of opportunity to make a sound investment in the US could be running out for UK/European buyers. In short, now is the time for smart investors to act.

MRI currently has a GBP149 property viewing trip offer from the UK to Florida. Fill in the form there to find out more.

Homes average a quicker turnover as “days-on-market’ tally drops to its lowest level in 2008

2008-09-29T16:22:00.001-04:00

Homes average a quicker turnover as
“days-on-market’ tally drops to its lowest level in 2008

(September, 2008 – Orlando, FL) Osceola County is the bright spot in this month’s housing statistics for the Orlando area: Nearly 9 percent more home sales took place in that county during August 2008 than during August 2007. Other market positives this month include the lowest days-on-market tally (113) so far this year and a fifth consecutive month with more pending sales than in 2007.

Those pending sales, considered by housing economists to be a reliable predictor of future sales activity, are expected to close the current year-to-date sales deficit of 23.30 percent by year end as there are 46.76 percent more homes under contract this month (3,220) than in August of 2007 (2,194).

Members of the Orlando Regional Realtor® Association sold 1,225 homes during the month of August, 16.78 percent below the (1,472) sold in July. That number is 16.50 percent below the total of 1,467 homes sold in August 2007.

The median sales price of a home in the Orlando area in August declined to $200,000, a 3.85 percent decrease compared to the July 2008 median of $208,000. (The median sales price for August 2008 is 18.03 percent below the August 2007 median of $244,000).

The decrease in the median home price to $200,000 means that the area’s affordability index jumped in August to 107.92 percent. (An affordability index of 99 percent means that buyers earning the state-reported median income are 1 percent short of the income necessary to purchase a median-priced home. Conversely, an affordability index that is over 100 means that median-income earners make more than is necessary to qualify for a median-priced home.) Buyers who earn the reported median income of $51,791 can qualify to purchase one of 9,765 homes in Orange and Seminole counties currently listed in the local multiple listing service (MLS) for $215,840 or less.

The first time homebuyer affordability index increased to 76.75 percent from July’s 73.64 percent.

The area’s average interest rate was 6.39 percent in August 2008, down from 6.40 percent in July, but still the second-highest percentage for the last 12 months.

Homes of all types spent an average of 113 days on the market before being sold in August 2008, and the average home sold for 92.77 percent of its listing price. In August 2007 those numbers were 108 and 95.02 percent, respectively.

The majority of single-family homes (197) that changed hands in August 2008 were sold in the $200,000 - $250,000 price range; another 113 homes sold in August for between $250,000 and $300,000. Four hundred thirty-five homes sold for less than $200,000 in August, and 271 sold for more than $300,000. On the far ends of the scale, 16 homes were sold for $1 million or more (the least this year) while 14 homes sold for less than $50,000 (the most this year).

Inventory

There are currently 24,834 homes available for purchase through the MLS. Inventory increased by 92 homes in August 2008, which means that 92 more homes entered the market than left the market. Compared to last year, the August 2008 inventory level (24,834) is 5.62 percent lower than it was in August 2007 (26,313).

The current inventory level reflects a 20.27-month supply at the current pace of sales, which is up from the 16.81-month supply recorded July. Altogether, inventory months-of-supply has declined 35.92 percent since January 2008.

There are 18,363 single-family homes currently listed in the MLS, a number that is more than 1,000 less than this time last year. Most (3,047) are listed in the $200,000 - $250,000 price range. Condos currently make up 4,377 offerings in the MLS, while duplexes/town homes/villas make up the remaining 2,094. Most condos (607) are priced at $120,000 - $140,000. The majority of duplexes/town homes/villas (383) are listed in the $200,000 - $250,000 price category.

Condos and Townhomes/Duplexes/Villas

The sales of condos in the Orlando area decreased by 31.33 percent in August: A total of 114 condos changed hands in August 2008 compared to 166 in August 2007. In a month-to-month comparison, August 2008 condo sales (114) decreased by 14.93 percent from July 2008 (134). Year to date, condo sales are down 43.71 percent, with 939 condos sold so far in 2008 compared to 1,668 sold through the same time in 2007.

In August, the most (20) condos that changed hands were in the $100,000 - $120,000 price category, while an additional 14 sold condos fell in the $140,000 – $160,000 range. The former price category has seen the most condo-sales activity for the last five months.

Orlando homebuyers purchased 95 duplexes, town homes, and villas in August 2008, which is a 29.10 percent decrease from August 2007 when 134 of these alternative housing types were purchased. Year-to-date, duplex, town home, and villa sales are down 19.36 percent. The majority (23) of duplexes, town homes, and villas sold in August 2008 fell into the $160,000 - $180,000 price category, while another 15 sold for between $200,000 and $250,000.

MSA Numbers

Sales of existing homes within the Orlando MSA (Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties) in August were down by 12.25 percent when compared to August of last year. Throughout the entire MSA, 1,518 homes were sold in August 2008 compared with 1,730 in August 2007. Year-to-date, the MSA is down by 22.45 percent, with 11,649 homes sold far in 2008 compared to 15,021 sold through August 2007.

Seminole County’s August 2008 sales dropped 30.90 percent below that of August 2007 (275 to 398), while Orange County fell 10.64 percent (764 to 855). Lake County saw a 5.84 percent decline in the number of sales in August 2008 compared to August 2007 (258 to 274), and Osceola County experienced an 8.87 percent increase (221 to 203).

Each county’s year-to-date sales comparisons are as follows:
Lake: 12.48 percent below 2007 (1,996 homes sold to date in 2008 compared to 2,281 in 2007);
Orange: 24.27 percent below 2007 (5,700 homes sold to date in 2008 compared to 7,527 in 2007);
Osceola: 16.63 percent below 2007 (1,664 homes sold to date in 2008 compared to 1,996 in 2007); and
Seminole: 28.85 percent below 2007 (2,289 sold to date in 2008 compared to 3,217 in 2007).

For detailed statistical reports, please visit www.orlrealtor.com and click on Housing Statistics on the top menu bar. This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Orlando Regional Realtor® Association or its Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Neither the Association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data maintained by the Association or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Due to late closings, an adjustment is necessary to record those closings posted after our reporting date.

ORRA Realtor® sales, referred to as the core market, represent all sales by members of the Orlando Regional Realtor® Association, not necessarily those sales strictly in Orange and Seminole counties. Note that statistics released each month may be revised in the future as new data is received.

Orlando MSA numbers reflect sales of homes located in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Lake counties by members of any Realtor® association, not just members of ORRA.

Statistics on the sales of area homes that are sold without the assistance of a Realtor® are available in the Real Estate Index, a report produced jointly by ORRA and the Real Estate Attorney’s Fund.

Visit Disney for free on your birthday...

2008-09-23T15:22:00.001-04:00

...plan your trip over here, whether just a vacation or an inspection trip organised by MRI Overseas Property and you can get into Disney for free on your birthday!

Visit Disney park for free on your birthday in 2009
Scott Powers | Sentinel Staff Writer
September 19, 2008
Next year, everyone will be able to visit a Walt Disney World theme park on his or her birthday and get in free.

That's the cornerstone of the 2009 national promotional campaign -- "What will you celebrate?" -- announced Thursday by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Anyone showing up with a valid ID including proof of birth date will get a free ticket on that date in 2009 for one of the theme parks at Disney World or at Disneyland in California.

Disney officials said the promotion is designed to cash in on what they describe as a growing trend called "celebration vacations" -- trips organized by families and others to mark milestone birthdays and anniversaries, honeymoons and other momentous personal occasions. The campaign succeeds Disney's two-year "Year of a Million Dreams" promotion, which ends Dec. 31.

Disney World already attracts a lot of celebration vacations, according to a marketing survey that Disney cited Thursday. But until now, the company has never put together a unified marketing campaign to attract such celebrations on a large scale.

Related links
The latest Disney news
Photos of Disney's theme parks Multimedia
Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom now and through the years Photos
Photos: Disney Epcot Center through the years Photos
Disney's Hollywood Studios now and through the years Photos
Disney's Animal Kingdom photos Photos
Photos: Orlando's newest rides and attractions Photos
I'm going to Disney World! Photos

The scoop on Orlando's best attractions...
Will you celebrate your birthday at Disney World
Hints of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios
Tree cheers at Orlando Science Center
Free admission to WDW on your birthday
Wheel of Fortune correction
More...
More Orlando Sentinel blogs
Search: Theme park attractions injury, illness and death reports

A free birthday ticket amounts to a $75 discount, which might seem insignificant in a family vacation budget that might run several thousand dollars or more. But Disney said the goal is to get more people thinking about their celebrations as much as it is about the free tickets, in hopes of enticing more vacationers to bring their big birthday parties to Disney World.

This personal-celebration theme will be omnipresent at Disney World next year, reflected in everything from buttons to banners to the parks' entertainment. Disney is expanding its offerings of celebration-oriented packages, which involve the resorts' hotels, bars, restaurants and merchandise shops.

"From the moment you arrive in the resort, we will use the buzz line 'celebrate today' in all our theming," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. The promotion also gives Disney something to help keep the turnstiles spinning even if the teetering national economy starts dragging down the theme-park business.

Easy lure for locals

While Disney's announcement in New York on Thursday talked of attracting "celebration vacations" from all over the world, local residents may be most easily lured by the offer of a free Disney World admission. Potentially, millions of Floridians usually not eager to spend $75 to visit a Disney theme park might consider a day trip for a free birthday treat. The same could be true for Southern Californians and Disneyland.

"We hope they'll take the opportunity," Rasulo said, adding, "The flip side of that is, nobody celebrates their birthday by themselves."

Other theme-park companies have offered a variety of ticket giveaways in recent years. Universal Orlando, for example, has offered free tickets to limited numbers of local residents through direct-mail promotions, and it once ran a promotion offering free tickets to young children. SeaWorld Orlando and some other Busch Entertainment Corp. parks have offered free tickets for several years to teachers and members of the military. Disney, however, has not been known for widespread ticket giveaways; Rasulo said he could not recall any similar previous campaigns.

Disney wants an even larger share of the celebration-vacation business for a good reason: Such vacations typically are more lucrative than ordinary ones, said Peter C. Yesawich, chairman of Ypartnership, an Orlando-based marketing company that specializes in travel and tourism.

People on vacations tied to a special occasion -- a 40th birthday, a 25th wedding anniversary, a honeymoon, a bar mitzvah -- tend to splurge more than ordinary visitors, according to the Ypartnership survey. It showed such vacationers often spend more, have more people in their party, stay longer, shell out for more shows and special dinners, and buy more souvenirs than people on routine vacations.

"People sensed that, but this is the first time it has really been quantified," Yesawich said.

Success in eateries, hotels

Birthday promotions are an old and usually successful deal for restaurants and other eateries, from Baskin-Robbins to Macaroni Grill, as well as for some hotel chains, and research shows that the total bill can make up for the giveaway, said Ady Milman, a professor in the University of Central Florida's Rosen College of Hospitality Management.

For Disney, such a promotion can also help build stronger ties with the Central Florida market, giving locals some Disney cheer during hard times, Milman said. It also allows Disney to collect marketing information that could prove valuable later. Finally, Disney's non-park assets, especially its hotels, should also benefit, he said.

Consultant Dennis Speigel, president of International Theme Park Services, called the idea "brilliant."

"Why hasn't anybody done this before?" he said. "I don't know of anyone that has done celebration vacations like this."

Scott Powers can be reached at spowers@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5441.

New attractions at Central Florida Zoo

2008-09-03T18:10:00.001-04:00

Zoo to build two new exhibits for $11 million

Orlando Business Journal - by Melanie Stawicki Azam

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford is gearing up for an $11 million Sumatran Swamp Forest project, featuring two new exhibits that will open during the next two years.

Zoo CEO Joe Montisano wants to break ground on a $3.2 million Sumatran tiger exhibit by the end of this year, with work taking about eight months to complete.

Plans call for getting a pair of tigers from another U.S. zoo or facility, breeding them and eventually having four. "It's entirely feasible to have the tigers on the property by 2009,'' Montisano said.

The zoo also will start building an orangutan exhibit next year and open it in 2010 with six animals.

More choice at Orlando International Airport

2008-09-03T18:06:00.001-04:00

New car rental deal to drive up airport revenue, increase choices
Orlando Business Journal - by Chris Kauffmann

Orlando International Airport soon will have 11 rental car firms on site.

Orlando International Airport will land more than $21 million extra annually beginning in 2010, thanks to a new car rental agreement.

The deal puts more car rental companies on-site -- giving customers more choices, while also reducing the airport's reliance on airlines for its revenue.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority will spend $102 million on improvements to accommodate more car rental companies and improve the process of renting a car at the airport. The airport will pay for that project mostly with a "customer facility charge" of $2.50 per day for up to five days.

PCL Construction will do the first phase of the work, which will cost $39.5 million. Construction should start in November.

Attracting additional rental car companies will put more money into the pockets of the airport at a time when its revenue from airline operations is tenuous. Soaring fuel prices have sapped the financial strength of many airlines, putting some on the verge of going out of business.

While some major airports get as much as half their revenue from airlines, Orlando expects about a quarter of its revenue for fiscal 2009 to come from its principal carriers. Orlando International makes up the bulk of its revenue from car rentals, concessions, hotel, parking and revenue-producing properties.

And under the new deal, the $44 million the airport now gets from on-site rental car companies will rise to $65 million a year in 2010.

The rental car agreement, the first since 1998, will increase the number of on-site major car rental firms from five to nine. Along with L&M and EZ -- disadvantaged business enterprises that have been operating at the airport -- the airport will have 11 brands on site.

Absent since 1998, Hertz will return to the airport with its Hertz and Simply Wheelz brands, while Enterprise and Thrifty will come on-site for the first time. Enterprise brings its Enterprise, National and Alamo brands to the airport. DTG Operations Inc. brings Thrifty and Dollar to the site. Avis and Budget are already at the airport.

St. Louis-based Enterprise spokesman Ned Maniscalco said it made sense to come on-site after Enterprise got the National and Alamo brands last year.

"This is the first opportunity for us to offer three brands, and we think being on-site will make it more convenient for customers."

No decision has been made yet whether Enterprise will keep its off-site location or shift everything to the airport.

There are still some major car rental companies, including Advantage, Payless and Continental, operating off airport property. Executives for those companies could not be reached for comment.

ckauffmann@bizjournals.com | (407) 241-2903

The sun is out again...

2008-08-27T15:39:00.001-04:00

...after TS Fay left her mark on the state, everybody here at 7220 International Drive, breathed a sigh of relief when the sun finally came out again and (touch wood!) has stayed out ever since. We're looking at the caribbean as Gustav may yet turn into a hurricane and head this way but, so far, so good! Everybody at MRI Overseas Property is taking full advantage of the sun and warmth.

Florida consumer confidence rises six points

2008-08-27T15:35:00.001-04:00

Florida consumer confidence rises six points

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Aug. 27, 2008 – Consumer confidence among Floridians made huge gains in August, rising six points to 67 from its revised July index, suggesting a turning point as state residents come to grips with the bleak economic picture, a new University of Florida study finds.

Four of the five index components rose – two by double-digits – and the remaining one was unchanged. The overall index is eight points higher than June’s reading of 59, which was the lowest in the survey’s 25-year history. The July index rose by two points to 61, one point higher than the preliminary index that was reported last month.

“It looks like June will be the low point for consumer confidence,” says Chris McCarty, director of UF’s Survey Research Center at the Bureau of Economic and Business Research. “Consumers in Florida have now absorbed most of the bad economic news. Although gas prices are coming down a bit, consumers have now adjusted to higher prices. Much of the pain from the housing downturn has also been absorbed. At this point, most people are looking forward to a turnaround in the economy some time next year.”

There are signs that housing prices are beginning to stabilize in the Sunshine State, McCarty says.

“While prices in Florida markets are still declining, the pace of the declines has slowed,” he said. “Overall, the median price of a home in Florida, excluding condos, is beginning to flatten.”

McCarty said he believes retrospective data will show that home prices bottomed out in July for most Florida markets and that stabilization of housing prices will ultimately lead to stability in financial markets.

Just as the housing crisis affected people’s attitudes about the economy, retail sales have dipped with the drop in consumer confidence, McCarty said.

“Florida’s sale tax revenues have continually declined, time and again falling under levels forecast by state economists,” he said.

Department stores are struggling against competition from low-cost chains, and further changes in the retail sector are likely as baby boomers migrate to Florida to retire over the next decade, altering the state’s demographic profile, he said.

“We will no doubt have a very weak holiday season, but many people are looking past that to better times,” he said of the state’s retail markets.

McCarty said he believes the overall reading for consumer confidence will remain below 70 over the next few months but will not fall below 60, as it did two months ago, or even near it.

“In the short run, I expect consumer confidence to be volatile, reacting to gasoline prices and the stock market,” he said. “I don’t think we will see another low like June any time soon, but I also don’t believe the economic correction is completely over and that consumer confidence is on a trend upward.”

The largest increase among the five components this month was in expectations about U.S. economic conditions over the next year, which rose 12 points to 63. That component had been holding steady at 51 for the prior three months. Expectations about U.S. economic conditions over the next five years also made big gains, increasing by 10 points to 78.

Among the other categories, perceptions of personal finances now compared with a year ago rose five points to 51, while perceptions of personal finances a year from now rose three points to 83. Perceptions as to whether it is a good time to buy big-ticket items remained unchanged at 59.

The research center conducts the Florida Consumer Attitude Survey monthly. Respondents are 18 or older and live in households telephoned randomly. The preliminary index for August was conducted from 405 responses.

Consumer confidence is designed to help predict buying patterns by measuring the mood of consumers toward purchasing. Although other economic indicators also predict buying patterns, consumer confidence tends to be available sooner. Based on the University of Michigan method, the index is benchmarked to 1966, so a value of 100 represents the same level of confidence for that year. The value of the index is in comparing changes over time rather than looking at an isolated month.

© 2008 FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Overseas buyers in Florida

2008-08-27T10:09:00.001-04:00

REALTORS® Report Foreigners Come to America to Buy Homes
WASHINGTON, August 07, 2008

International real estate purchases in the U.S. continue to be a significant share of business for many Realtors, according to the 2008 National Association of Realtors® Profile of International Home Buying Activity.

This new research indicates that international buying activity in the U.S. is widespread. NAR estimates that between 150,000 and 190,000 homes were sold to foreign nationals from May 2007 to May 2008. Recent foreign buyers purchased properties in every state and the District of Columbia. The most popular states where international buyers purchased homes are Florida, California and Texas. Arizona, New York, Washington and Nevada were also popular.

“As the most trusted resource for real estate information, Realtors® have long understood what this latest research confirms – the U.S. housing industry truly has no boundaries,” said NAR President Richard F. Gaylord, a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Specialists in Long Beach, Calif.

The typical international buyer purchased a single-family vacation home costing $297,400. Four in 10 paid for their U.S. property with cash, compared with 7 percent for all domestic buyers. The typical international owner stayed at his or her U.S. property for 2.6 months during the year, according to the NAR findings.

Foreign exchange rates have helped make U.S. homes more affordable for international buyers. The euro, for example, has strengthened 24 percent versus the U.S. dollar over the past two years. Home prices are also now more affordable in places such as Florida and Arizona, contributing to those states’ popularity among foreign buyers.

“Many international buyers recognize that real estate is an excellent investment and are drawn today by abundant inventory, low interest rates and a softer dollar. These conditions allow them to own their own a piece of the American dream,” Gaylord said.

International buyers are distinct from domestic buyers. International buyers tend to purchase more expensive properties, which cost an average of 36 percent more than the typical domestic buyer’s home purchase. In fact, more than 14 percent of properties sold to international buyers sold in excess of $750,000. Foreign buyers also show a greater preference for condos and townhouses compared to domestic buyers.

People from North America, Europe and Asia accounted for more than 85 percent of recent foreign home buying transactions. The top six countries of origin for foreign home buyers, in rank order, were Canada, the United Kingdom, Mexico, China, India and Germany. This year, Canada replaced Mexico as the country with the largest share of foreign buyers in the U.S. The percentage of Canadian buyers doubled from last year, from 11 percent to 23.5 percent.

“This survey confirms a pattern that we have observed for some years in Florida and other markets that are attracting buyers from overseas,” said Tony Macaluso, 2008 chair of NAR’s international business group. “This latest research enhances our understanding of this audience and provides insight for the increasing number of Realtors® with international clients.”

Of the Realtors® surveyed, 26 percent served international clients in the past year and about half of those clients ended up purchasing a home. The primary reasons some clients did not eventually buy a house were home price concerns, immigration laws, and property taxes. “If visa regulations that favor longer stays for overseas buyers such as retirees from abroad were in place, these sales levels would be even higher,” Macaluso said.

Realtors® who have sold homes to international clients reported that their transactions with these clients accounted for about 16 percent of their entire business. For about 8 percent of Realtors® who work with foreign buyers, more than half of their transactions were international sales.

The 2008 NAR Profile of International Home Buying Activity is based on responses from approximately 4,000 Realtors® who serve foreign buyers. It describes international home buying activity in the U.S. over the 12-month period from May 2007 to May 2008 and updates information from the 2007 survey. The full report is available from NAR’s Research Division or at www.realtor.org/research/research/reportsintl.

Orlando market picks up in July

2008-08-26T15:57:00.001-04:00

The Orlando housing market saw an improvement in July sales when compared with the previous year, according to the latest report from the Florida Association of Realtors.

Existing single-family home sales in the Orlando area were up 11.6 percent in July, from 1,484 in July 2007 to 1,656 last month. The median sales price of an existing home fell 19 percent, from $258,000 in July of last year to $209,100 last month.

Condominium resales, however, fell 15.6 percent, from 179 last July to 151 in July 2008. The median price of an existing condo also dropped to $121,900, a 17.5 percent decline from July 2007's $147,700.

Meanwhile, the Daytona Beach area saw a 3.5 percent increase in July existing home sales, from 575 in July 2007 to 595 last month. The existing sales price on a Daytona market home fell to $171,100, a 16 percent decline from last July's $204,600.

Condo resales totaled 103 in the Daytona Beach MSA last month, a 13 percent improvement from the 91 resales posted in July 2007. The median price of $265,600 for a Daytona Beach area condo showed a 17 percent decline from July 2007's $320,600.

Statewide, a total of 11,498 existing single-family homes sold last month, a nearly 1 percent improvement over the 11,492 homes sold in July 2007. Florida's median sales price for existing homes last month was $193,600, 19 percent less than the $238,900 reported in the same month a year prior.

Condo resales in Florida totaled 3,375, a 7 percent drop when compared with the 3,641 sold in July 2007. The statewide median sales price fell 13 percent, from $194,100 in July 2007 to $168,500 last month.

Press release: Leading Real Estate Company Withdraws from UK Trade Body over Impartiality Concerns

2008-08-21T10:40:00.001-04:00

21 August 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Leading Real Estate Company Withdraws from UK Trade Body over Impartiality Concerns
SPAIN, MARBELLA
A leading real estate company has withdrawn its membership of the UK’s National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), due to concerns that the body is be being used as a platform for libellous comments against it.
MRI Overseas Property, the largest overseas real estate firm in Europe, announced the move today having been refused the adjournment of an NAEA hearing.
The company says it requested the adjournment in order to collate and present evidence that it claimed would bring into question the “motivation and good faith” of the complainants.
It also wanted sufficient time to collate this evidence in order to instigate legal action against the perpetrators.
Dominic Pickering, the company’s chief operating officer, said:
“The NAEA took the wholly unreasonable decision to proceed with this hearing, despite being informed of the very serious matters we have uncovered. They have not been able to provide us with any justification for this approach.
“As such, and given that the NAEA claims to represent the interests of its members, I am simply at a loss to understand how they can consider it appropriate to deprive us of a fair hearing in this way.
“In the circumstances, I have entirely lost faith in the processes and authority of the NAEA, and I have regrettably concluded that we can no longer remain associated with them.”
He added: “The NAEA has sadly failed to demonstrate its impartial position, and even after it was provided with information showing its failings, it refused to correct the situation.”
EDITORS’ NOTES
The MRI Group
MRI Overseas Property is a member of the MRI Group, and has offices in 18 countries. The MRI Group has interests in property construction, sales, resales and rental, and owns a UK property television channel, OPTV (satellite 287). The company was founded in 2000 and has its head office in Marbella, Spain.
Internet: www.themrigroup.com
Email: dominic.pickering@mrioverseasproperty.com
Tel: +34 952 90 11 66

National Association of Estate Agents
The National Association of Estate Agents states that its “key roles include providing help and guidance for property professionals across a broad spectrum of disciplines while continually campaigning to make the property market more efficient and user-friendly for the home buying and selling public.”
Internet: www.naea.co.uk
Email: info@naea.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1926 496800

Tablet PCs in real estate- a great example of success

2008-08-21T09:26:00.001-04:00

In my years of using Tablet PCs and dealing with folks who are wondering what the technology can do for them I have shown them to a lot of people in the real estate business.' Real estate dealings are the perfect setting for using the Tablet technology given all the paperwork involved and the need to exchange it rapidly.' Every time I have shown the Tablet to a realtor they have never failed to be impressed but even given a good demonstration very few end up adopting it for their own business.' This is something that has always confused me but this excellent video that shows how the Tablet technology can be leveraged by an actual realtor should do the trick.' It is readily apparent how the Tablet changes the complexion of a complex real estate transaction with the right software.' Have a look at it and see if you agree.' Interesting things of note: the realtor seems to always work with the Tablet in landscape orientation rather than portrait and she always closes it in laptop mode even though she seems to usually use it in slate mode.' She might be protecting the screen but I think it would be quicker to put it in the bag in slate mode for next time.

(Ultramobile PC Tips via GottaBeMobile)

Press release: MRI Overseas Property and NAEA

2008-08-20T10:17:00.001-04:00

19 August 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Estate Agents' Body “Hijacked” by Outside Groups, Real Estate Firm Claims
SPAIN, MARBELLA – August 19, 2008
A leading real estate company is considering whether to continue as a member of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), due to concerns that the body may be being used as a platform for libellous comments against it.
MRI Overseas Property, the largest overseas real estate firm in Europe, has expressed its “astonishment and concern” at recent actions by the UK-based NAEA.
Dominic Pickering, MRI Overseas Property’s chief operating officer, said:
“MRI has always been a great believer in professional associations, but only if they are used in the correct way.
“We have a real concern that the NAEA’s impartiality as an industry body is being hijacked by a number of outside interests acting together.
“We are hoping that the NAEA can demonstrate it is not being affected by these outside forces, but if it cannot, we will have no option but to take further action to protect our reputation as necessary.”

EDITORS’ NOTES
The MRI Group
MRI Overseas Property is a member of the MRI Group, and has offices in 18 countries. The MRI Group has interests in property construction, sales, resales and rental, and owns a UK property television channel, OPTV (satellite 287). The company was founded in 2000 and has its head office in Marbella, Spain.
Internet: www.themrigroup.com
Email: dominic.pickering@mrioverseasproperty.com
Tel: +34 952 90 11 66

National Association of Estate Agents
The National Association of Estate Agents states that its “key roles include providing help and guidance for property professionals across a broad spectrum of disciplines while continually campaigning to make the property market more efficient and user-friendly for the home buying and selling public.”
Internet: www.naea.co.uk
Email: info@naea.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1926 496800

Watch that niche...

2008-08-19T10:42:00.001-04:00

Here at MRI Overseas Property, we're not seeing any downturn in demand but some of these points apply even to us!

Developing a new market niche is one of the best ways to build your real estate business. By focusing on these opportunities, you can enhance your expertise, help clients more effectively and distinguish yourself from the competition. Here are several strategies for success in serving target markets that can help you generate more income in 2008.

Scratch that niche: You might like it

International Sales

Throughout Florida, Europeans, Canadians and Latin Americans are buying homes, both primary residences for their families and second homes for vacations. Many overseas buyers are seeking second homes, while others are looking to move capital out of their native countries or make long-term investments. A recent survey by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) found that Florida led the nation in international buyers with 26 percent of total U.S. sales in 2006. Why? The weak U.S. dollar makes Florida homes a bargain for Europeans and gives Canadians more buying power. Latin Americans like to invest in the U.S. and recognize that now is an ideal time to buy lower-priced properties.

Advice from an international sales expert

Key benefit: International buyers are ready, willing and able to purchase Florida homes and condominiums.
Fundamentals for success: Knowledge of your local second-home market and international buyer groups (Europeans, Canadians, etc.). An effective targeted marketing program reaching (A) international second-home residents in your market and (B) potential buyers overseas using search engine placements and other web tools. Knowledge of a foreign language (by at least one team member).
Good first steps: Join an international chamber in your area. Team up with a mortgage broker or attorney who works with international clients. Start building relationships with recent international buyers in your community.
Reaching this market: Study international buying patterns in your market. Add “international-friendly” features to your web site and online market program.
Time frame to become marketable: Less than a year
Longer-term goal: Earn NAR’s Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation. Learn more: http://www.realtor.org/cipshome.nsf/pages/AboutCIPS
Tip from a pro: “You need to understand the different cultures and be able to explain how U.S. real estate works. When you factor in the exchange rates, our state can offer tremendous bargains for many international buyers.” - Charles Dinsmore, CIPS, broker-associate, RE/MAX Partners, Fort Lauderdale
Short Sales

Many Florida real estate professionals today are helping sellers in financial distress. They give hope to homeowners facing foreclosure by explaining their options, such as a “short sale,” when the market price for a home is less than the amount due on the mortgage. Recent statistics compiled by RealtyTrac, which tracks foreclosures throughout the country, show Florida had one foreclosure for every 95 households, the third highest rate in the U.S. This includes homes whose owners received a “notice of default” from the lender as well as homes that have actually gone into foreclosure. In third-quarter 2007, there were 60,992 such properties in Florida, according to RealtyTrac — more than double the number reported in third quarter 2006. For real estate associates, an owner in financial difficulty usually is a highly motivated seller, hoping to resolve the situation prior to foreclosure.

What is a short sale? Many owners holding adjustable rate mortgages (ARMs) or interest-only loans are facing higher monthly payments. If market prices have declined as well, a seller may have no equity in the home — sometimes called an “upside down” sales situation. In a short sale, the owner asks the mortgage lender to accept a loan payoff that is less than the total amount due. Basically, the seller’s net proceeds from the transaction will not be enough to cover the mortgage obligations and closing costs. To request a short sale, the owner typically presents the lender with evidence of financial hardship and a current market estimate of the home’s price. Any potential short sale is contingent on the lender’s approval. Learn more about Short Sales seminars
Key benefit: In addition to generating an immediate sale, helping a motivated seller in a crisis can create a “client for life” relationship leading to future sales and referrals.
Fundamentals for success: Ability to do quick financial calculations and clearly explain the advantages and disadvantages of a seller’s various options.
Good first steps: Educate yourself on the pre-foreclosure options. Talk with your broker and understand an associate’s role in the process. Build a professional relationship with an experienced mortgage broker. Learn more.
Reaching this market: Advertise yourself as a “short sales” specialist. Make cold calls or knock on doors in your target neighborhoods. In listing presentations, try to assess the seller’s financial situation.
Time frame to become marketable: Time to understand the pre-foreclosure process, which could be a few days or weeks.
Longer-term goal: Generate repeat business with loyal sellers who may be able to buy another home in the future.
Tip from a pro: “Normally, owners don’t say, ‘I can’t make my payments,’ so the associate should ask about the type of loan, the rate and if there have been any recent changes.” - Mike Pappas, president, The Keyes Company, Miami
Foreclosures

Throughout Florida, foreclosures are rising quickly as homeowners struggle to keep up with their monthly mortgage payments. According to RealtyTrac, the incidence of foreclosures will remain high and may possibly increase thanks to the number of loans due to reset through the middle of 2008 and the continuing weakness in home sales. Florida sales associates can get a piece of the action by working with renters seeking an inexpensive first home, “handyman” types who want to repair and resell a fixer-upper and investors seeking income-producing properties. Working directly with lenders on sales of real estate-owned (REO) or bank-owned foreclosures is a highly specialized field that usually requires a corporate approach.

Key benefit: A foreclosure buyer may decide to list the property again in the near future for a “move-up” or a profitable resale.
Fundamentals for success: Ability to assess a property’s condition and the costs necessary for repair or renovation.
Good first steps: Go to a Web site that lists foreclosed properties to get a better understanding of what’s available in your market. Some sites include, www.foreclosure.com, www.realtytrac.com/ and www.foreclosurefreesearch.com.
Reaching this market: Advertise yourself to buyers as a foreclosure specialist. Include links to foreclosure sites on your Web site.
Time frame to become marketable: You can start working with buyers almost immediately.
Longer-term goal: Generate repeat business with new owners who may list their home in the near future or seek to purchase other investment properties.
Tip from a pro: “This is a great opportunity to bring first-time buyers into the market. Prices are not giveaways, but they are often below the normal selling prices because the banks want to move the property.” – Eduardo J. San Roman, president and CEO, First Service Realty-GMAC Real Estate, Miami
New Home Sales

With excess inventory and a wait-and-see attitude on the part of buyers, Florida builders and developers need all the help they can get to find qualified buyers. The National Association of Home Builders estimates that 1.08 million new U.S. homes will be started in 2008. About 125,000 of those homes and condos will be in Florida, estimates Orlando economist Hank Fishkind, president, Fishkind & Associates. That’s in addition to a statewide inventory of several hundred thousand newly built residences that remain unsold. At the same time, many savvy buyers appreciate working with real estate professionals who can help them take advantage of builder incentives and special financing opportunities in Florida’s new subdivisions and multifamily communities.

Key benefit: Rather than work with an individual seller, you can represent a builder or developer offering multiple homes or condominiums who can construct more residences in the future.
Fundamentals for success: General knowledge of new construction. Familiarity with a builder’s models, subdivisions or condominium developments.
Good first steps: Start touring new home communities and condo developments. Introduce yourself to the sales team and register as a participating sales associate or broker. Post the new-home offerings on your Web site.
Reaching this market: Look for well-established builders and developers who stand behind their product. Visit their communities and sales centers. Build a personal relationship with the in-house sales team (large community), or directly with the developer or builder (smaller projects and individual spec homes).
Time frame to become marketable: One to two months to familiarize yourself with the sales team and community.
Longer-term goal: Eventually, you could work for the builder or developer full-time as a broker or sales manager.
Tip from a pro: “Most new community developers have generous co-op broker programs today. You should know these communities like the back of your hand, and include information about these opportunities on your Web site.” – Real estate analyst Lewis Goodkin, president, Goodkin Consulting, Miami
Property Management

Investing in Florida real estate is one thing. Managing it is another. Many who invest in apartment buildings, individual condo units, shopping centers, office buildings and other types of income-producing properties need someone else to manage their holdings. Many large public companies and real estate investment trusts (REITs) are also getting into the Florida market. Owners usually commission property management firms staffed by people with a solid background in real estate. For those who enjoy the sales process, becoming a leasing specialist can become a full-time career in the property management field. This is a field that pays a premium for communication skills and ability to produce results: owners expect to see a positive return on their investment, regardless of market conditions. And tenants can call with problems at any time of the day or night. On the plus side, property management, either in full-time salaried position or as a supplement to a sales career, can provide a steady flow of income. And being able to manage a property for an investor can extend the relationship beyond the immediate sale, opening the door to future transactions.

Key benefit: Steady income from providing an ongoing real estate service.
Fundamentals for success: Communication skills for dealing with owners and tenants. Financial skills and familiarity with spreadsheet applications. Relationships with service providers, such as janitors, landscapers, plumbers, painters and electricians. Ability to formulate and execute a yearlong management plan.
Good first steps: Talk with current property managers and educate yourself. Consider working for a larger firm for a year or so to learn the ropes. Study the local market to identify a good niche: residential apartments or commercial sectors. Learn more.
Reaching this market: Pinpoint buildings and facilities that may need hands-on professional management. Approach those owners with a presentation that highlights your experience, knowledge, expertise and abilities.
Time frame to become marketable: A few days, a month or a year or more depending on the size and scope of the property and the owner’s management needs.
Longer-term goal: Take property management courses through groups like the National Association of Residential Property Managers (www.narpm.org), earning designations like Residential Property Management Professional (RMP), Master Property Manager (MPM), Certified Support Specialist (CSS) and Certified Residential Management Company (CRMC).
Tip from a pro: “To be successful, you have to select one or more specific areas of the market (apartments, strip centers, industrial space, etc.) and immerse yourself in it.” – Susie Rice, vice chairman, RMC Property Group, Tampa
Luxury Homes

Luxury home sales have held up surprisingly well during Florida’s residential downturn. That’s because affluent buyers buy a luxury single-family home or condominium without worrying about daily changes in mortgage rates. Today, the pricing range of luxury homes varies around the state — anywhere from $500,000 or so up to $10 million or more. In most cases, these are waterfront, country club or golf-course single family homes, or high-rise condominiums with ocean, gulf, bay, or riverfront locations and views. In today’s Florida market, there appears to be relatively strong demand for luxury homes, according to several leading brokers. “It’s unusual to have more activity in the luxury market, which has a smaller overall pool of buyers,” says Ron Shuffield, president, Esslinger Wooten Maxwell (EWM) in Coral Gables. “However, the current tighter lending practices don’t usually impact buyers of luxury homes and condos.”

Key benefit: Residences with a higher sales price result in a larger commission check.
Fundamentals for success: Strong presentation skills. Marketing skills to connect with affluent sellers and buyers. Persistence, as luxury homes may take a year or more to sell.
Good first steps: Familiarize yourself with the local luxury market and identify a niche to serve. Consider joining a team of associates that is already focusing on high-end buyers and sellers.
Reaching this market: Join civic and charitable organizations that bring you face-to-face with affluent homeowners. Develop a presentation that highlights your ability to market luxury homes and condos effectively.
Time frame to become marketable: If you are already a successful sales professional, you could generate a luxury listing in just a few days. Otherwise it could take weeks, months or a yearlong campaign to break into your local high-end market.
Longer-term goal: Shift your sales career into the luxury market.
Tip from a pro: “A good sense of design and the ability to showcase a seller’s home are crucial elements for success in the luxury market.” - JoAnn Roberts, sales associate, Coldwell Banker, Pinecrest
Commercial Brokerage

Economists expect Florida’s commercial real estate market to outperform the residential sector in 2008, with active sales and leasing activity in the retail, office, industrial and hospitality markets. The hottest properties, analysts say, are likely to be warehouses and suburban shopping centers, which continue to be needed in local markets with strong population growth. That’s an important point for real estate associates seeking opportunities in the commercial sector. After all, it’s easier to break into the market by representing individual owners of smaller properties, such as neighborhood retail centers or industrial/office properties.
Key benefit: Increased long-term revenue and diversification, because of a strategic change in your business.
Fundamentals for success: Math and computer spreadsheet skills. Ability to analyze the financials (leases and company balance sheet) to build the investment business model, including commercial loan structures and tax issues. Thorough knowledge of a market area or product type.
Good first steps: Educate yourself by taking an introductory course from the CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) Institute. Join a local commercial board or society or Commercial Information Exchange (CIE). Join a commercial brokerage team or become an “apprentice” to a senior commercial broker. Learn more: http://chapters.ccim.com/florida.
Reaching this market: Build a new personal network and stay in touch regularly by using email, direct mail, phone calls and personal visits.
Time frame to become marketable: A minimum of six months to a year. You may be able to close on a lease or small commercial property within six months, but some types of transactions take one to two years to close.
Longer-term goal: Become a commercial sales or leasing specialist.
Tip from a pro: “When you start out, you should spend 100 percent of your time learning everything you can about a certain product type, such as retail shopping centers, or a geographic market.” - Cynthia C. Shelton, CCIM, CRE, director of investment sales, Colliers Arnold, Orlando
Young First-Time Buyers

A new wave of young homebuyers is entering the Florida market. A recent study by International Demographics found that there were 6.2 million adults age 18 to 35 with household incomes over $100,000 in 87 major metropolitan areas. In Florida, those potential buyers include recent college graduates just starting their careers.

Today’s lower sales prices, seller incentives and affordable mortgage rates make 2008 an ideal time to starter-home purchases. In many cases, monthly mortgage costs are comparable to rent payments.

While renting a home or apartment may make sense for a young professional who expects to move in the next year or two, home ownership continues to be an attractive long-term financial investment, In fact, a desire to own a home of their own and to establish a household is the most often cited reason for purchasing a home, according to NAR’s recent 2007 Profile of Homebuyers and Sellers, Florida Report. A job-related move, desire for a larger home, a change in family situation, desire for a home in a better area and a desire to be closer to family and friends are also high on the list of reasons for purchasing a home.

Key Benefit: First-time buyers appreciate a sales associate who walks them through the purchase process — and will remember that person when it’s time to sell in the future.
Fundamentals for success: Ability to connect with buyers in their 20s and 30s – in person, and via voice, text messages and online conversations
Good first steps: Familiarize yourself with the local starter-home market. Feature these lower-priced listings prominently on your Web site.
Reaching this market: Visit nearby apartment communities and market yourself as a specialist serving first-time buyers. Start compiling an online mailing list of potential buyers. Look for opportunities to participate in college alumni association events.
Time frame to become marketable: A few days or weeks.
Longer-term goal: Develop “clients for life” who continue working with you as they purchase larger homes and investment properties later in their careers.
Tip from a pro: “Many college graduates have substantial debts, so you have to be able to help them improve their credit history before applying for a mortgage. Sometimes it takes several months to guide them through the process until they are ready to buy.” - Nancy Pardo, sales associate, The Keyes Company, Boca Raton
Seniors

More than 78 million members of the Baby Boom generation (both (1946-1964) are beginning to reach their 60s. And just like their parents, a significant percentage want to retire to attractive communities in Florida where they can enjoy their favorite outdoor activities (boating, tennis, jogging, golf) and indoor pursuits (shopping, dining, cultural activities). And in many cases they want to “test the water” by buying a second home in Florida for family vacations or seasonal rentals. Realtors who cater to the diverse interests and financial requirements of the Boomers could build a loyal clientele that will continue to grow for the next decade. Florida also continues to attract older retirees — the members of the “G.I. generation” born prior to 1930. They may be looking to downsize from a larger home or move into a community that offers both independent senior living and assisted care. With both groups, an effective sales professional can build a business with strong revenue potential.

Key benefit: Specializing in one of Florida’s traditional demographic segments – and one that will be growing significantly in the next decade.
Fundamentals for success: Personality traits, including friendliness, patience and compassion. Ability to use traditional communication channels (hand-written notes, direct mail and the phone) as well as email and Web technology.
Good first steps: Learn all you can about local communities that cater to retirees and seniors, including golf-course and waterfront residences. Market yourself as a specialist in serving retirees, and be ready to show them an appealing Florida lifestyle -- not just a home.
Reaching this market: Cultivate out-of-state buyers through an advertising program that focuses on key U.S. states and regions. Participate in local community activities that attract retirees and seniors within your own market. Offer assistance to younger family members who may be helping a parent change residences.
Time frame to become marketable: A few days or weeks.
Longer-term goal: Building a loyal clientele that generates an ongoing flow of word-of-mouth personal referrals.
Tip from a pro: “Don't make the mistake of stereotyping ‘seniors’ into one category just because they're over 50. The needs and desires of one generation can be completely different from another.” - Karen Ashley, sales associate, Watson Realty, Jacksonville
Singles

From recent college graduates and young professionals to divorced parents and elderly widowers, singles at all age levels constitute a growing segment of the Florida market. Nationally, 51 percent of all U.S. adult women live without a spouse, and by 2010 Fannie Mae estimates that as many as 31 million single women will be homeowners — 28 percent of all U.S. households. A recent NAR study prepared for Florida found that single women purchased 1.5 million homes in 2006 — about one out of five residential sales. Among the factors that have contributed to this trend are increased wages and greater availability of financing for women. And while much of the demographic research has focused on single women, it’s important to note that single men purchased about 750,000 U.S. homes in 2006 — another growth segment. Because those lifestyle trends apply to Florida as well, real estate professionals who successfully focus on this market can expect grow their business for many years to come.

Key benefit: Specializing in a fast-growing demographic segment with high growth potential.
Fundamentals for success: Understanding the specific lifestyle needs and desires of single men and women, such as security and convenient access to social gathering points.
Good first steps: Talk to single friends, neighbors and business associates about their dream homes. Identify communities and neighborhoods that attract singles and get to know their amenities (outdoor cafes, fitness centers, parks, etc.)
Reaching this market: Go to places where singles like to meet and strike up conversations. Advertise your real estate services on websites that attract singles in your community.
Time frame to become marketable: A few weeks or months.
Longer-term goal: Create “clients for life” who refer their friends and family members — and remember your services when it comes time for them to buy a new home.
Tip from a pro: “Most singles, especially women, are looking for a secure, maintenance-free lifestyle. They want to spend their free time on recreational activities — not a fixer-upper.” – LaShawn Norden, sales associate, Watson Realty, Longwood

Price beats creativity

2008-08-19T09:52:00.001-04:00

Here at MRI Orlando, we'd agree with this piece. Buyers want value for money and see this sort of thing as a "gimmick" although offering your hand in marriage could be seen as going a little bit far!:

Sellers nationwide want something that makes their home stand out from the sea of listings, but those who try some creative marketing generally find that only one thing counts in today’s market – price.

Two essay contests in Colorado and Oregon failed to attract enough contestants, and the homes are once again listed in a traditional way. Many sellers include traditional perks, such as the furniture or a car, but some have gone much further. A 42-year-old single mother in South Florida offered herself in marriage to some lucky homebuyer; and a couple in Pennsylvania offered to will the house back, upon their death, to a buyer.

However, Ron Shuffield, president of Esslinger-Wooten-Maxwell Realtors Inc. in Miami, says all the unusual incentives are crazy. He says the motivation to buyers is the same: price. “Of course you want to draw attention to your property any way you can,” Shuffield says. “But free trips or cars, that’s costing somebody somewhere, and a buyer would rather have a reduced price and decide what to do with their money.”

Florida’s strong population growth boosts demand for housing

2008-08-18T17:47:00.001-04:00

Florida’s strong population growth boosts demand for housing

As one of the fastest growing states in the nation, Florida’s population is expected to increase by 325,000 in 2008, spurring demand for working-age and retirement housing.

“Florida remains a prime destination for workers seeking new jobs and for the growing wave of baby boomers,” said economist Hank Fishkind, president of Fishkind & Associates in Orlando. “However, a slower national economy means that 2008 growth will be somewhat below the levels seen during the recent boom years.”

Fishkind’s analysis of demographic data indicates Florida enjoyed a net population growth of 350,000 each year from 2000 to 2006. That includes about 203,000 people who moved to Florida from other states, about 107,000 migrants from foreign countries and about 47,000 from natural increase (total births minus total deaths).

“It’s important to note that this is net growth,” added Fishkind. “The actual number of people who move to Florida each year is far greater.”

On the domestic side, the strongest “sending” states are New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan and California. Among top foreign countries are Venezuela, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom and Canada.

“Florida has a long history of population growth regardless of the nation’s economic cycle,” said Nancy Riley, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Pinellas County and the 2007 president of the Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR). She added that Florida has been one of the top ten fastest growing states for seven decades in a row, exceeding the U.S. average by 100 percent since 1970.

In fact, the U.S. Census Bureau projects that in 2010 Florida will surpass New York and become the nation's third most populous state. By 2030, the Census Bureau projects the state’s population will reach 28.6 million, an increase of 12.7 million since 2000.

One reason for that growth is that the state’s highly diversified economy continues to attract jobs in tourism, technology, international trade and business services. That brings in individuals, couples and families in their 20s to 50s, primarily to Florida’s larger metropolitan areas.

In addition, Florida traditionally captures a large share of the domestic retiree market, ranging from highly affluent entrepreneurs and executives to moderate-income couples seeking a warm-weather destination with plenty of recreational opportunities.

According to the Census Bureau, there are 76 million baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964. If only 5 percent retire to Florida, that alone would add 3.8 million new residents.

International buyers provide a third stream of migration into Florida, including working-age professionals, retirees and affluent second-home buyers.

As Riley said, “The bottom line is that more than 900 people move to Florida every day. That provides a solid foundation for our state’s residential real estate market.”

The Florida Association of Realtors, the voice for real estate in Florida, provides programs, services, continuing education, research and legislative representation to its 125,000 members in 67 boards/associations. FAR's Media Center Web site is available at http://media.floridarealtors.org.

20 reasons to buy in Florida

2008-08-18T17:45:00.001-04:00

The upside of Florida real estate: 20 market positives

Let’s take a look at some of the opportunities and positive indicators for the future of Florida’s real estate market.

Long-term economic and demographic trends continue to favor Florida. By 2010 it has been forecast that Florida will be the third most populated state in the country. Florida’s population is expected to increase about 75 percent by 2030. Florida demonstrates a long history of strong growth. It has been one of the 10 fastest-growing states in the U.S. for each of the past seven decades, and often it has been in the top four, according to census data. Population growth will continue to provide a foundation for other economic growth such as new jobs and growing incomes. All of which is good for real estate.
People continue to move here. It’s estimated that 900 people move here every day. Based on recent trends, Stan Smith, director of UF Bureau of Economic and Business Research, said he expects Florida to add about 300,000 residents a year during the next two to three years unless there is a recession.
Five of the top 15 cities in the Milken Institute’s 2007 “Best Performing Cities” survey, which looks at sustainable economic growth, are in Florida, including the No. 1 city, Ocala. A total of 13 Florida cities are in the top 50.
Low unemployment. Almost 120,000 jobs were created in Florida in the year between August 2006 and August 2007. Florida’s unemployment rate has hovered at or under 4% for a long time; and was 4% in August 2007, according to the latest data available from the U.S. Department of Labor. That not only puts it well below the national unemployment average, it also is the lowest unemployment rate among all ten of the most populous states.
Jobs are plentiful, and that trend will continue. A recent study by Bizjournals called “Where the Jobs Are” found that 7 of the hottest 15 job markets are in Florida.
Let’s take a look at the weather. If you think the hurricanes we experienced are going to have long-term effects on the Florida real estate market, consider this tidbit from Fortune Magazine. It recently reported, “Economists and geographers who have studied how natural disasters affect real estate values have generally found there to be no lasting impact.” Example #1: When Hurricane Hugo hit Charleston, S. C., home values were actually higher one year later. Example #2: That same year, 1989, a huge earthquake made big news in San Francisco, and the same thing happened—house prices went up.
Grant Thrall, a professor of what’s called Economic Geography, explains this phenomenon this way—residents move away and home prices fall only when natural disasters start becoming regular occurrences in an area, not when they happen periodically. And while the hurricane seasons of 2004 and 2005 may still be fresh in our minds, the fact is, historically it was a fluke. Eight storms hit the Florida mainland in those two years. But if you look back at the 50 years prior, only six Category 3 or higher storms hit the Florida mainland in half a century.
Gov. Charlie Crist, state lawmakers and business groups are committed to finding real solutions to the escalating costs and shortage of property insurance in Florida, as well as much-needed property tax reform. Florida Realtors will continue working closely with lawmakers to help resolve these complicated issues and keep the state’s economy moving forward. For example, 2007 FAR President Nancy Riley sits on the governor’s property tax reform commission, and 2005 FAR President Frank Kowalski served on the governor’s insurance reform commission.
Interests rates currently are still low, on a par with interest rates in the 1960s. And thanks to the Fed’s recent rate cut, we’re already seeing lower rates on home equity and mortgage loans, including jumbo loans. The Fed’s action effectively increases the number of homebuyers able to make a purchase, which should increase demand, and also help support home prices. Home prices continue to stabilize, inventory is plentiful and homebuyers have lots of options.
Homeownership has value: Realtors believe… and research supports that belief … that homeownership provides a variety of benefits, tangible and intangible, to the community as well as the individual homeowner.
Studies show that home equity is still the largest single source of household wealth, both for the individual homeowner and for homeowners as a group. Home value is the most important single aspect for homeowners.
Owning a home leads to increased personal well-being. Research shows that people who own their own homes tend to show higher levels of personal esteem and life satisfaction, which in turn helps to make homeowners and their children more productive members of society.
Studies show that children raised in homes owned by their families are more likely to stay in school and more likely to graduate high school. They’re also shown to have a higher lifetime annual income.
People who own homes have a strong financial stake in what happens to their community and tend to become more involved in community and civic affairs. Studies show that homeowners also interact with their neighbors to gain wider influence over their neighborhoods and communities.
Homeowners join up to 41 percent more civic and/or nonprofessional organizations than renters, such as the PTA or Scouts; vote in local elections 15 percent more often; enhance their neighborhoods with gardens 12 percent more often; attend church about 10 percent more often; and have a 3 percent greater chance of being interested in public affairs.
2007 Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR) President Nancy Riley says, “Florida Realtors know buying a home is a very personal investment – an investment in a family’s future. Although research shows it is the largest single investment most families make and helps to provide security for the future, owning a home isn't just a financial investment. Ownership is about having a place to call home: a place where families build a future and become part of a community.”
Over the past five years, the average homeowner has seen an increase of 50 percent in value, according to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). Here in Florida, the statewide median home price has shown an increase of 52.5 percent from November 2002 to November 2007, according to FAR records. NAR housing industry analysts project that prices will rise about 2 percent next year, and in coming years, average home price appreciation should return to historical averages of around 6 percent.
Florida is a great place to live and work. According to Enterprise Florida Inc., the Sunshine State has one of the nation's strongest tourism industries; it is fourth in the nation in high-tech jobs; is the third largest exporter of high-tech goods and services; and is ranked as one of the best states in the nation to be an entrepreneur.
Orlando-based economist Dr. Hank Fishkind recently said in several media reports he believes that “the worst of the so-called housing crisis has probably been mitigated by the actions of the Fed. Recovery will take a while, but it has begun.” Another economist, Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist with the National Association of Realtors, predicts that the Florida housing market will get stronger in 2008 and will be booming again by 2010.
And let’s not forget the things that brought people to Florida in the first place, and will continue to attract them – beautiful beaches, fabulous weather and a friendly business climate, with no state income tax. It’s no wonder that Florida’s combination of temperate climate, outstanding recreational amenities and economic opportunity has consistently put us at the top of Harris Poll’s “most desirable places to live” survey.

Condo Sales improve in Quarter 2 of 2008

2008-08-18T17:43:00.001-04:00

Florida's Existing Home, Condo Sales Improve
in 2Q 2008 Compared to 1Q 2008

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 14, 2008 – During the second quarter of 2008, Florida Realtors® continued to report positive signs for the state’s housing sector, such as an increase in pending home sales (based on contracts signed but not closed) and a slower rate of expansion of inventory levels in some areas.

Sales of both existing single-family homes and existing condominiums improved in second quarter 2008 from the first quarter of the year, according to the latest housing statistics from the Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR). A total of 35,178 existing homes sold statewide in 2Q 2008, up 38.2 percent over 1Q 2008 when 25,443 homes sold. The statewide existing home median price in 2Q 2008 was $203,000, slightly higher than the $202,300 median price reported in 1Q 2008.

In the state’s existing condo market, a total of 11,343 units sold in 2Q 2008, a 32.2 percent increase over 1Q 2008 when 8,581 units changed hands. The statewide existing condo median price in 2Q 2008 was $181,100, an increase of 1.5 percent from 1Q 2008.

“Across the state, we’re seeing positive signs for Florida’s housing market,” says 2008 FAR President Chuck Bonfiglio. “Realtors are reporting heightened interest from buyers, more business activity and an increase in pending sales. Prices also appear to be reaching equilibrium in many areas, another encouraging sign that could boost the market’s momentum.”

Looking at the year-to-year quarterly comparison, a total of 35,178 single-family existing homes changed hands during the three-month period, a decrease of 6 percent compared to 37,407 homes sold during the same time a year earlier, according to FAR records. The statewide existing-home median sales price was $203,000 in the second quarter; a year ago, it was $241,200 for a decrease of 16 percent. In 2003, the second-quarter statewide median sales price was $154,700, which reflects an increase of 31.2 percent over the five-year period. The median is a typical market price where half the homes sold for more, half for less.

To gain insight into current trends in Florida’s real estate industry, the University of Florida’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies conducts a quarterly survey of industry executives, market research economists, real estate scholars and other experts. The second quarter 2008 survey found the long-term outlook for Florida remains positive. “As long as the United States economy has bright prospects and particularly as long as Florida has good prospects, it’s very hard I think to make a case for a long-term picture that’s negative,” said Wayne Archer, director of UF’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies. He added that the logical time for market cycles to change is likely the spring of 2009.

In a year-to-year quarterly comparison for condo sales, 11,343 units sold statewide for the quarter compared to 12,585 in 2Q 2007 for a 10 percent decrease. The statewide existing-condo median sales price was $181,100 for the three-month period; in 2Q 2007, it was $215,300 for a 16 percent decrease.

Continuing low mortgage rates remain another favorable influence on the housing sector. According to Freddie Mac, the national commitment rate for a 30-year conventional fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.09 percent in second quarter 2008; one year earlier, it averaged 6.37 percent.

The latest industry outlook from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) predicts improvements in existing home sales in the coming months, with broader gains seen by the fourth quarter as buyers take advantage of new provisions provided through the recently approved housing stimulus legislation. “With a tax credit now available to first-time homebuyers, increases in home sales could be sustained with the momentum carrying into 2009,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun.
Two charts showing statistics for Florida and its MSAs are attached. One chart compares the volume of existing, single-family home sales and median sales prices in the second quarter of 2008 to the second quarter of 2007, based on Realtor closed transactions from local Realtor boards/associations within the MSAs. The second chart compares the volume of existing condo sales and median sales prices in second quarter 2008 to second quarter 2007, based on Realtor closed transactions from local Realtor boards/associations within the MSAs.

Looking for a "green card" or to invest in an Orlando business?

2008-08-06T10:20:00.001-04:00

Friday, July 25, 2008
Foreigners invest locally in return for green card
Orlando Business Journal - by Dan Ping

Rob Sutton wants to attract foreign investors to fund an expansion of Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service will decide next month whether or not to name Central Florida as a major hub where local businesses can tap into a new source of foreign investment -- up to $10 billion annually.

It's all part of the EB-5 Immigrant Investor program, which allows foreign investors to eventually become permanent U.S. residents. It was created by Congress in 1991 to spur foreign investment and create new jobs in the U.S.

Until now, the program has gotten little attention. In fact, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service last year issued only 780 visas out of 10,000 set aside annually. Spokesman William Wright estimates the agency will issue 1,000 EB-5 visas this year.

But that may change as businesses search for capital during a time when the credit markets in the U.S. have tightened significantly.

Some interesting graphs on real estate for the last year

2008-08-06T10:12:00.001-04:00

Some "meat" for those people looking for statistics on house purchases here in Florida and the Orlando region.

Type of property purchased by country of origin:

Region of origin of foreign buyers:

Sale price of homes purchased:

Principal purpose for purchasing home:

The strong Euro:

Charity begins at home

2008-08-05T15:10:00.001-04:00

REALTORS® and Habitat Bring a Local Family Home
WASHINGTON, July 28, 2008

Martina Dunston of Orlando, Fla., will soon have a place of her own to call home thanks to the National Association of Realtors®. On Saturday, Realtors® raised the walls of Dunston’s new Habitat for Humanity home.

Dunston and her three children, James, 7; Amya, 4; and Destini, 18 months, were joined by leaders of NAR, the Florida Association of Realtors®, the Orlando Regional Realtor® Association and Habitat for Humanity Orlando at the wall raising ceremony. The Dunston family will receive the keys to their one story, three-bedroom home when it is dedicated during the 2008 REALTORS® Conference & Expo in Orlando, November 7-10.

“Realtors® build communities and are committed to helping families like Ms. Dunston and her children realize the dream of affordable homeownership,” said Mark Foreman, NAR vice-president and liaison to committees, who spoke at the ceremony. “We look forward to joining Habitat for Humanity in November and handing Ms. Dunston the keys to her new home.”

Martina Dunston has personally contributed more than 250 hours of sweat equity, building Habitat houses for other local families before construction of her own home began. In recent years, several other Habitat for Humanity houses have been built in Dunston’s new neighborhood.

For the past eight years NAR has worked together with Habitat for Humanity International to build a home in the host city for NAR’s annual conference. Realtors® have also contributed to Habitat for Humanity’s post-Katrina homebuilding efforts along the Gulf Coast and abroad.

The 2008 REALTORS® Conference & Expo will take place at the Orange County Convention Center. This year’s conference, with the theme “Destination Success – Full Speed Ahead,” will feature hundreds of conference sessions, more than 700 exhibitors, and tens of thousands of real estate professionals from the U.S. and 50 countries.

Habitat for Humanity Orlando is a not-for-profit, ecumenical, Christian organization dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income, hardworking families through the American Dream of homeownership. It is one of approximately 2,100 local affiliates of Habitat for Humanity International. Support from sponsors, donors and volunteers directly benefit the Central Florida community. To learn more about Habitat for Humanity Orlando or to make a donation, call 407/ 648-4567 or visit www.habitat-orlando.org.

Technology and real estate

2008-08-05T13:24:00.001-04:00

Watch our soon for exciting new ways to buy and sell real estate through MRI Overseas property:

Powerful mobile tools, voice-activated devices and a lot of video will better connect real estate professionals with their customers in coming years, predicted a panel of technology experts at NAR’s Midyear Meetings in May.

Most of the new technology will follow the mantra: “I think, I get,” said panel member J. Lennox Scott, chairman and CEO of John L. Scott Real Estate in Seattle.

Tune in to these 5 technology predictions

Many more mobiles

The real estate industry is already ahead of the curve when it comes to smart phone usage. Currently, 11 percent of the population in the United States has smart phones, while 28 percent in real estate own one. And within the next 12 to 24 months, another 30 percent of real estate pros are expected to buy some form of handheld device, said Errol Samuelson, president of Realtor.com. In surveys, real estate professionals say they use handhelds because the devices present a more professional image, enable them to be more responsive to buyers, and help them secure and serve clients. Samuelson predicted that in the next decade, more people will access the Internet via mobile devices than through their PCs. To spur this increased usage, Samuelson expects an explosion in smart phone application software, battery life, screen size, and easier interfaces such as touch screens.

Widespread video use

More than 141 million viewers watch 3.3 billion videos on You Tube a month, which is more than double the 65.6 million who subscribe to cable TV, Samuelson said. Yet real estate practitioners have been slow to adopt video in their business, despite the fact that 74 percent of consumers say they would be more inclined to list with a salesperson who puts a video of their home on the Web, said Samuelson..
Customized content

Consumers will be able to set more personalized parameters for the real estate information they want, creating more individualized and customized content as part of their real estate searches.

Voice command technology

No more looking down and hunting for information on your mobile devices while you’re driving. More technology will incorporate voice command options that let you call up information with just the sound of your voice, Scott said.

High-speed wireless networks

The recent emergence of 3G cellular networks gives mobile devices Web access at close to cable modem speeds. Some companies are even promising networks that will work at four times these speeds by 2010. Networks are also expanding their capacities so customers can connect at longer distances from towers.

More ads on mobile devices

Soon you’ll be able to promote your property listings and market your services more quickly than ever before, all over a mobile device.

SOURCES: REALTOR® magazine online, Melissa Dittmann Tracey

Who bought in Florida in 2007?

2008-08-05T13:16:00.001-04:00

Study: Single person, non-child families trend in 2007 Florida home sales

ORLANDO, Fla. – Jan. 8, 2008 – One in three Florida homebuyers is single, with 21 percent of 2007 home purchases made by single women and 12 percent by single men – just one finding from the newly-released Florida version of NAR’s “2007 Profile of Florida Homebuyers and Sellers.” Another highlight: Over two-thirds of Florida buyers (64 percent) had no children younger than 18.

The 2007 Profile of Florida Homebuyers and Sellers describes the characteristics and motivations of recent homebuyers and sellers in Florida to help real estate professionals track the changing demands of consumers in a dynamic market. Here’s a summary of the report’s findings:

Characteristics of homebuyers

• The median age of homebuyers was 43 years old. Among first-time buyers, the median age was 32.
• The 2006 median household income of homebuyers was $67,500 compared to $74,000 among homebuyers nationally.
• Sixty-four percent of homebuyers reported that there were no children under age 18 residing in the home.
• Fifty-nine percent of homebuyers were married couples, 21 percent single females, 12 percent single males, and 6 percent were unmarried couples.
• Eighteen percent of Florida homebuyers reported they were born outside the United States, compared to 9 percent nationally.
• First-time homebuyers accounted for 38 percent of homes purchased in 2007.
• Forty-nine percent of first-time homebuyers were between 25 and 34 years old.
• The median income of first-time homebuyers was $58400 compared to $58,600 among all first-time buyers nationally.
• Sixty-five percent of homebuyers between 18 and 24 purchased a home because of their desire to own a home of their own and establish a household.
• Thirty-eight percent of homebuyers reported using social networking Web sites, such as, MySpace, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Friendster. Among homebuyers aged 18 to 24, 76 percent reported using social networking sites.

Characteristics of homes purchased

• Twenty-seven percent of recent homebuyers purchased newly built homes.
• Fifty-eight percent of homes purchased were detached single-family homes.
• The typical homebuyer purchased a home 14 miles from their previous residence.
• The median price of homes purchased was $230,000 compared to $215,000 in the U.S.
• The typical buyer purchased a home that was 1,700 square feet in size.
• Recent homebuyers plan to live in their home a median of 10 years.

The home search process

• Twenty-five percent of recent buyers reported that their first step in the home-buying process was looking online for properties for sale. Eighteen percent of first-time buyers and 24 percent of repeat buyers reported their first step was to contact a real estate agent.
• Eighty percent of homebuyers used the Internet to search for homes.
• The typical homebuyer searched for a home for a median 8 weeks and saw a median 10 homes.
• Eighty-four percent of homebuyers used a real estate professional during their home search.
• Among homebuyers, the typical Internet searcher was 40 years old and visited a median 10 homes. The typical homebuyer that did not use the Internet to search for homes was 53 years old and saw a median 5 homes.
• Thirty-seven percent of homebuyers first learned about the home they purchased from a real estate professional; 19 percent first learned about the home they purchased through the Internet.
• Seventy-two percent of buyers viewed the Internet as a very useful tool in their home search.
• Real estate agents were viewed as a very useful information source by 67 percent of buyers, and as a somewhat useful information source by an additional 23 percent of buyers searching for a home.

Home buying and real estate professionals

• Seventy-one percent of homebuyers purchased their home through a real estate agent or broker.
• Buyers searched for a median of two weeks on their own before contacting an agent.
• A friend, family member, neighbor or relative referred 52 percent of first-time buyers to their agent.
• Ninety-eight percent of buyers ranked honesty and integrity as a “very important” factor when choosing a real estate professional to assist with a home purchase.
• When asked about their agent’s performance on those qualities considered important, 80 percent reported they were “very satisfied” with the honesty and integrity of their agent.
• Sixty-eight percent of recent buyers will definitely use their agent again, and an additional 19 percent will probably use the agent again or recommend to others.

Financing the home purchase

• Ninety percent of homebuyers financed their home purchase; 98 percent of first-time homebuyers financed the purchase of their home compared to 90 percent of repeat buyers.
• Savings were the chief source of the downpayment for most first-time homebuyers (69 percent).
• Fifty-three percent of repeat buyers used proceeds from the sale of their primary residence toward the downpayment; 46 percent relied on savings for a portion of the downpayment.
• Forty-seven percent of all buyers believe that their home purchase was a better financial investment than stocks, and an additional 30 percent of buyers feel their home purchase was at least as good an investment as stocks.

Home sellers and their selling experience

• The median age of home sellers was 48 years; they had a median income of $83900.
• Sixty-nine percent of home sellers were married and 61 percent had no children under 18 years old living at home.
• Fifty-one percent of home sellers traded up to a larger home when purchasing their next home.
• The typical home seller owned their home for 6 years.
• Fifty-three percent of recent home sellers reported that they undertook home improvement or remodeling projects within three months prior to putting their home on the market.
• The typical home was on the market for 10 weeks. 33 percent of home sellers did not reduce their asking price before their home sold.
• Recent sellers typically sold their homes for 96 percent of the listing price.
• Seventy-nine percent of sellers used an agent or broker to sell their home.
• Sixty-seven percent of all sellers were very satisfied with the selling process.

Home sellers and real estate professionals

• Fifty-nine percent of sellers contacted only one agent before selecting one to help assist in the sale of their home.
• When selecting a real estate professional, 36 percent of sellers received a recommendation from a friend, neighbor or relative.
• The reputation of the agent was the most important factor when choosing a real estate professional for 39 percent of recent sellers.
• Twenty-six percent of sellers used the same agent for their home purchase.
• For 37 percent of sellers, their most important expectation is that the real estate agent will help sell the home within a specific timeframe.
• Eighty-six percent of sellers reported that their home was listed or advertised on the Internet.
• Eighty-two percent of sellers used an agent that provided a broad range of services and managed most aspects of the sales transaction.
• Sixty-two percent of sellers reported they would definitely use the same real estate agent again.

For sale by owner (FSBO)

• Seventeen percent of sellers sold their home without the assistance of an agent compared with 12 percent of sellers nationally. Among all sellers, 3 percent were FSBO sellers who knew the buyer.
• Eighty percent of FSBO sellers sold a detached single-family home.
• For 19 percent of FSBO sellers, the most difficult task in selling their home was understanding and performing the necessary paperwork to complete the transaction, for 3 percent it was preparing the home for sale, and for 12 percent the most difficult task was getting the price right.

To download the complete report in PDF format, go to floridarealtors.org at: http://www.floridarealtors.org/LegislativeCenter/Research/index.cfm

Unsold housing stock falls

2008-08-04T11:09:00.001-04:00

A fall in inventory is a hopeful sign that the market is turning upwards.

Metro Orlando's inventory of new subdivision housing falls
Jerry W. Jackson | Sentinel Staff Writer
July 30, 2008

As people continued moving into new homes faster than builders were erecting them, Metro Orlando's inventory of new subdivision housing fell again during the second quarter, according to a closely watched survey released Tuesday.

The report by Metrostudy found 3,646 finished-but-vacant single-family homes in the four-county metro area, down from 5,560 last year at the same time.

The area's total inventory, which includes homes under construction and model units, was down 39 percent from a year earlier to 7,033, or a 7.1-month supply. A market is generally considered to be in balance when the pace of sales and the number of units available combine for a six-month supply.

New-home starts in Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Lake counties totaled 1,701 during the second quarter, down 46.3 percent from the same period a year ago. But the second-quarter total was 12 percent higher than the number of first-quarter starts, a sign that builders were anticipating an increase in demand, Metrostudy reported.

"New-home sales are picking up in a few areas, where there also is some growth in base pricing, although that increase has been slow after more than a year of price reductions," said Anthony Crocco, director of Texas-based Metrostudy's Central and North Florida division.

The number of new-home closings in the second quarter -- 2,215 -- was down 45.4 percent from a year earlier and also lower than the first quarter. Metrostudy doesn't count a new-home sale as complete until someone moves into the dwelling.

Avalon Park in east Orange County was the busiest subdivision in the metro region during the 12 months that ended June 30, with 208 new-home starts, , followed by Lakes of Mount Dora in Lake County (158), Berkshire Park in Orange (155), Sullivan Ranch in Lake (130) and Orlando's Baldwin Park (121).

A separate new-home market report, released this week by Charles Wayne Consulting Inc. of Maitland, provided additional evidence to suggest that a turnaround could be under way.

Jim Lewis, president of the real estate research company, said in his report, "It now appears that the worst of the housing construction slowdown may be behind us."

The Charles Wayne survey, conducted slightly differently from the Metrostudy survey, found a sharp rebound in single-family home starts in the Clermont/Groveland/Mascotte area of south Lake County, with 153 homes under way in 38 developments -- a 219 percent increase from the first quarter. Northeast Polk County, though officially outside the metro area, had the most new-home starts in the Orlando market during the period, with 285 units in 105 subdivisions, up 29 percent from the first quarter.

In all, 384 subdivisions reported building and marketing homes in 18 submarkets, and 12 of those 18 submarkets recorded an increase in home construction from the first quarter.

Lewis said it's too early to celebrate, however. Although the numbers are "a move in the right direction," they are building on very weak quarters from last year.

Jerry W. Jackson can be reached at jwjackson@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5721.

Foreign flights to Orlando on the up and up...

2008-08-04T11:05:00.001-04:00

We here at MRI are starting to notice the effects of this up-turn in people arriving in Orlando:

Tourism & Travel

Foreign flights to Orlando pick up slack at airport
Jason Garcia and Scott Powers | Sentinel Staff Writers
August 4, 2008
Overall passenger traffic may have slipped 3.3 percent at Orlando International Airport in June compared with a year earlier, but international travel continues to be a bright spot.

The airport's international traffic rose nearly 10 percent in June compared with the same month a year ago. And it was up more than 23 percent through the first half of the year. The growth has been fueled in large part by new service from Germany's Lufthansa and Ireland's Aer Lingus, as well as increased service from carriers such as British Airways and Copa Airlines.

Also helping is the weak U.S. dollar, which makes American vacations cheaper for foreign tourists.

The same forces are also driving big gains in international traffic across the country. The federal government reported last week that international travel to the U.S. as a whole jumped 14 percent in May compared with the same month in 2007. Travel to the U.S. was up 12 percent through the first five months of the year.

What's more, spending by international tourists has ballooned 22 percent so far this year -- to more than $57 billion.

Tennessee and the mountains...

2008-08-01T16:07:00.001-04:00

We've been marketing some stunning properties in Tennessee for some little while now but with the exchange rate being so good for European buyers, we're even more convinced that now is a great time to buy one of those luxury "log cabins" although that term really doesn't do justice to what these are!

Take a look at the pictures below to see what I mean:

and then there's a copy of the mail-shot we're sending out to our MRI clients shortly:

Email


Bargain Tennessee holiday homes! Come and see on a £149 trip... Dear XXXXXXXX Having helped people invest profitably in Florida for many years, we couldn't miss the chance to tell you about these luxury "vacation lodges" in up-and-coming Tennessee. We think this is the best US property investment for UK clients right now. Find out more today Brilliant value — With the strong pound, just £150k gets you a 2-bed, 2-bath unit, & 4-bed, 4-bath units are just £215k! Traditional outside, inside these are luxury modern homes with air con, fitted kitchens, movie & games rooms. They're on a beautiful woodland development with pool, gym room, clubhouse, mini-golf & more Popular holiday destination — 12 million people visit every year, and it is within a day's drive of 75% of the US population! As well as the Great Smoky Mountains, the area boasts world class family attractions including Dolly Parton's "Dollywood". Tennessee enjoys a near-tropical climate & is easy to reach from the UK Best chance of good returns — As the latest destination for family holidays, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is similar to Orlando 5 years ago. Prices here have yet to "bolt". Experts regard it as being seriously under-priced compared to similar locations. These are the perfect properties for renting to holidaymakers There are limited units at these prices, so fill in the form today. We'll give you more info and tell you about our 5-day viewing trips from the UK for only £149 per person. NOW is the time to grab a bargain stateside!

New World Estates is an internet marketing company working with carefully selected property developers & agents. Offer price only for couples in the UK. Full terms & conditions on request. Information provided in good faith & intended for guidance purposes.

Electricity....

2008-08-01T10:22:00.001-04:00

...not normally a problem in the USA - unlike the Marbella HQ where the demands of the staff, computers and air-conditioning units overwhelm the abilities of Sevillana to keep a constant or regular supply, so power outages and brown-outs are the norm there. The regular "beep, beep, beep" of the UPS' is a tune familiar to all.

However, yesterday, as well as a loud bang across the road from the office where the electricity company were working (with no apparent damage to life, limb or property), we also suffered a total shut-down at home along with the rest of the apartment block as the nearly 30-year old transformer outside blew - quite spectacularly, with molten metal sprayed all inside the casing.

3 vans, lights flashing, one crane, 5 engineers and 3 hours later, power was restored to cheers from the various onlookers.

A shot of the newly installed electrical box and the guys who got us back up and running - no Internet in the house for two hours!

And a warm welcome to...

2008-07-31T15:45:00.001-04:00

...the new blog from the Orlando HQ of MRI Overseas Property.