(OPENPRESS) Dec. 8, 2006 -- Ft.Lauderdale, FL -- Real estate has taken a down-turn, but through an innovative process BridgePoint Ventures, LLC has created a way for both real estate developers and real estate purchasers to mitigate the risk in a challenging marketplace."Unfortunately, real estate does not avoid supply and demand laws, and many will be hurt as a result of this downturn -- specifically the world of new development," explained Eric Jafari of BridgePoint Ventures, LLC."
A group of some of the nation's most successful real estate purchasers, CEOs and entrepreneurs have collaborated to develop an opportunity to capitalize on the softening of the market. By providing new development projects with the provisions needed to endure the current market softening, BridgePoint is able to provide its financial partners with potential double-digit profits without ever having their capital accessed by the developer," said Jafari.
To read more Click Title
Monday, December 11, 2006
Vertical Ownership: Innovative Solution for Real Estate Purchase
(OPENPRESS) Dec. 8, 2006 -- Ft.Lauderdale, Fl -- The average consumer now has the opportunity to purchase their dream home or investment property and be provided the opportunity for insulation from the softening of the market.
"Vertical ownership" provides end users the ability to purchase real estate and be guaranteed the best pricing of their respective model, and a mechanism that provides a safety net against declining real estate values, according to Eric Jafari, of Vertical Realty Advisors, LLC.
"Although millions of Americans want to purchase a new primary or secondary residence, they fear that their purchase will turn out to be an unwise financial decision due to the currently unstable real estate market," explained Jafari.
"Vertical Realty Advisors, LLC has developed a mechanism that provides consumers a contractual guarantee of the lowest unit price prior to closing in any given development project. Buyers can purchase a home in exclusive developments and participate in a pricing program that guarantees a dollar-for-dollar price adjustment in the event real estate values drop," he added.
To read more Click Title
"Vertical ownership" provides end users the ability to purchase real estate and be guaranteed the best pricing of their respective model, and a mechanism that provides a safety net against declining real estate values, according to Eric Jafari, of Vertical Realty Advisors, LLC.
"Although millions of Americans want to purchase a new primary or secondary residence, they fear that their purchase will turn out to be an unwise financial decision due to the currently unstable real estate market," explained Jafari.
"Vertical Realty Advisors, LLC has developed a mechanism that provides consumers a contractual guarantee of the lowest unit price prior to closing in any given development project. Buyers can purchase a home in exclusive developments and participate in a pricing program that guarantees a dollar-for-dollar price adjustment in the event real estate values drop," he added.
To read more Click Title
Latest Home Prices - 148 Markets
Latest home prices: 148 markets
Third-quarter prices are in. See how your hometown stacks up. (more)
Rank Market Growth
1. Salem, OR 24.7%
2. Elmira, NY 21.4%
3. Salt Lake City, UT 19.2%
4. Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC 16.9%
5. Gainesville, FL 15.9%
Click Title for Full Report
Third-quarter prices are in. See how your hometown stacks up. (more)
Rank Market Growth
1. Salem, OR 24.7%
2. Elmira, NY 21.4%
3. Salt Lake City, UT 19.2%
4. Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC 16.9%
5. Gainesville, FL 15.9%
Click Title for Full Report
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Condo conversions ease region's rental crunch
Angela Paradiso is a small real-estate investor who owns three condominium units: two in downtown Orlando and one in Altamonte Springs.
She has tenants in all three and charges "very competitive rents," she says, "because I want to keep them occupied."Paradiso is part of a shadow rental market that has sprung up in Central Florida among the tens of thousands of apartment-to-condo conversions that have flooded the local market during the past three years.
Click title to read rest of story.
She has tenants in all three and charges "very competitive rents," she says, "because I want to keep them occupied."Paradiso is part of a shadow rental market that has sprung up in Central Florida among the tens of thousands of apartment-to-condo conversions that have flooded the local market during the past three years.
Click title to read rest of story.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Forecasting Changes on the Housing Front
By Nancy Moffitt
Real Estate Professor Todd Sinai With Unconventional Wisdom on Cooling Home Prices
Todd Sinai is a master of understatement, describing his explosive research on the recent residential real estate downturn as little more than "a fairly fortuitous time to be undertaking this exercise."
Indeed. The Wharton real estate professor and two colleagues set off a torrent of media attention with their September 2005 op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, a piece that disputed widely held beliefs about recent sky-high housing prices.
Click title for rest of story.
Real Estate Professor Todd Sinai With Unconventional Wisdom on Cooling Home Prices
Todd Sinai is a master of understatement, describing his explosive research on the recent residential real estate downturn as little more than "a fairly fortuitous time to be undertaking this exercise."
Indeed. The Wharton real estate professor and two colleagues set off a torrent of media attention with their September 2005 op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, a piece that disputed widely held beliefs about recent sky-high housing prices.
Click title for rest of story.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Second Qtr Home Prices for 151 Markets
Metro home prices flat
Second-quarter home prices for 151 markets.
August 21 2006: 2:06 PM EDT
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Housing markets seem to have slid into a new phase, one of much slower price growth.
After several consecutive quarters of double-digit, year-over-year increases, the national market recorded a gain of just 3.7 percent in the second quarter, to $227,500.
It was the second consecutive quarter in which home prices failed to repeat the gains of an average of more than 10 percent annually from 2002 through 2005.
Regionally, only the Northeast continued to perform comparatively well - prices climbed there by 6.3 percent to $299,200. Midwestern prices fell by 2.0 percent to $167,400. The South gained 4.1 percent ($188,200) and the West rose 3.6 percent ($350,800).
Condo prices, down nationally by 0.3 percent, fell in the West by 6.7 percent to $272,200. The Northeast again led the market with condo prices there up by 4.9 percent to $257,800.
To see market trends click title
Second-quarter home prices for 151 markets.
August 21 2006: 2:06 PM EDT
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Housing markets seem to have slid into a new phase, one of much slower price growth.
After several consecutive quarters of double-digit, year-over-year increases, the national market recorded a gain of just 3.7 percent in the second quarter, to $227,500.
It was the second consecutive quarter in which home prices failed to repeat the gains of an average of more than 10 percent annually from 2002 through 2005.
Regionally, only the Northeast continued to perform comparatively well - prices climbed there by 6.3 percent to $299,200. Midwestern prices fell by 2.0 percent to $167,400. The South gained 4.1 percent ($188,200) and the West rose 3.6 percent ($350,800).
Condo prices, down nationally by 0.3 percent, fell in the West by 6.7 percent to $272,200. The Northeast again led the market with condo prices there up by 4.9 percent to $257,800.
To see market trends click title
Monday, November 06, 2006
NAR Bullish on Housing Market, Advises Consumers to Take Action Now while Conditions Still Favorable
RISMEDIA, November 6, 2006—In a full-page newspaper advertisement running in six of the nation's leading newspapers beginning today, the leadership of the National Association of Realtors(R) TO READ MORE CLICK TITLE.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Orlando Population Statistcs
A 2005 U.S. Census Estimates population count gave the city population was 213,233 (metropolitan area over 1.8 million).
The city is best known for the many tourist attractions in the area, particularly the nearby Walt Disney World Resort. Other area attractions include SeaWorld and Universal Orlando Resort.
Downtown Orlando has recently seen much redevelopment, with many more projects currently under construction or planned. Orlando sees an estimated 52 million tourists a year. Orlando is the 2nd largest city in the country for number of hotel rooms. It is a leader in medical care and research, especially at Orlando Regional Medical Center.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando,_Florida
The city is best known for the many tourist attractions in the area, particularly the nearby Walt Disney World Resort. Other area attractions include SeaWorld and Universal Orlando Resort.
Downtown Orlando has recently seen much redevelopment, with many more projects currently under construction or planned. Orlando sees an estimated 52 million tourists a year. Orlando is the 2nd largest city in the country for number of hotel rooms. It is a leader in medical care and research, especially at Orlando Regional Medical Center.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orlando,_Florida
Orlando Trends
The year 2006 has begun with a strong start for the Orlando Tourism Bureau, with a dedicated UK marketing campaign.
Targeting the mass consumer family audience, the Orlando Tourism Bureau has launched a national TV advertisement campaign showcasing the destination, which is currently on air through February. As in previous years, this has proven to be the most effective time for reaching prospective holidaymakers. In addition, the Orlando Tourism Bureau has updated its consumer literature – a comprehensive visitor guide full of advice and the latest news from the destination. Also a freestanding insert was inserted into the News Of The World and the Express earlier this month.
Targeting the mass consumer family audience, the Orlando Tourism Bureau has launched a national TV advertisement campaign showcasing the destination, which is currently on air through February. As in previous years, this has proven to be the most effective time for reaching prospective holidaymakers. In addition, the Orlando Tourism Bureau has updated its consumer literature – a comprehensive visitor guide full of advice and the latest news from the destination. Also a freestanding insert was inserted into the News Of The World and the Express earlier this month.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Real Estate Smarts Buy Low Rent High
To Redbrick Partners, slow real estate markets mean a fast path to profits by acquiring cheap homes and turning them into rental properties.
By Paul Sloan, Business 2.0 Magazine editor-at-large
October 26 2006: 10:56 AM EDT
By Paul Sloan, Business 2.0 Magazine editor-at-large
October 26 2006: 10:56 AM EDT
(Business 2.0 Magazine) -- Jonas Lee spends most days driving slowly through unfamiliar neighborhoods. He may look lost - constantly leaning out the window, craning his head in contorted ways - but don't be fooled. He's doing the most critical part of his job: scoping out homes for his Washington, D.C., investment firm, Redbrick Partners, to add to its growing stable of rental properties.
Lee is doing more drive-bys than ever these days. A handful of housing markets, such as southern Florida and certain neighborhoods of Washington, D.C., are wildly overbuilt. Prices are dropping. And developers who raced to build new houses and condos during the boom are likely to soon be begging for buyers. "There's going to be blood in the water," Lee says. "A big pileup."
To view more please click title
Bubble-Proof Markets
BOSTON
Population: 575,000
Median home price: $421,000
It's the intellectual character of Boston that has, more than anything else, enabled it to achieve its bubble-proof status. Boston has the greatest concentration of top universities and colleges in the country. It also boasts world-class cultural institutions, such as the Boston Fine Arts Museum and the Boston Ballet, and a deep sense of history that's reflected in its architecture and neighborhoods.And, more recently, a robust mutual fund industry has boosted the city's share of high-income individuals.
Click headline to read more
Population: 575,000
Median home price: $421,000
It's the intellectual character of Boston that has, more than anything else, enabled it to achieve its bubble-proof status. Boston has the greatest concentration of top universities and colleges in the country. It also boasts world-class cultural institutions, such as the Boston Fine Arts Museum and the Boston Ballet, and a deep sense of history that's reflected in its architecture and neighborhoods.And, more recently, a robust mutual fund industry has boosted the city's share of high-income individuals.
Click headline to read more
Top 10 Foreclosure Markets
Miami, FL
Median home price: $349,900
Portion of households in foreclosure: 0.37%
Change since January: 91.2%
A cooling economy, plus rises in property insurance premiums, energy prices and interest rates have made it tougher for home owners, especially for those who bought in at recent high prices.
To see other cities click title
Median home price: $349,900
Portion of households in foreclosure: 0.37%
Change since January: 91.2%
A cooling economy, plus rises in property insurance premiums, energy prices and interest rates have made it tougher for home owners, especially for those who bought in at recent high prices.
To see other cities click title
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Is housing out of the woods?
Planet Realtor > Florida > News > Daily
Is housing out of the woods?
WASHINGTON -- Oct. 24, 2006 -- Depending on whom you ask, the winds may already be shifting for the housing market. All year, economists have warned of a bursting housing bubble and its potential impact on economic growth. However, a recent stream of encouraging data has some prominent prognosticators changing their tune.
To read more click title.
Is housing out of the woods?
WASHINGTON -- Oct. 24, 2006 -- Depending on whom you ask, the winds may already be shifting for the housing market. All year, economists have warned of a bursting housing bubble and its potential impact on economic growth. However, a recent stream of encouraging data has some prominent prognosticators changing their tune.
To read more click title.
Two New Studies Look at Homebuying Patterns of Older Americans
Forty-two percent of survey respondents would prefer to retire in the South, 32 percent in the West, 15 percent in the Midwest, and 12 percent in the Northeast. "This tells us that the Sunbelt will remain a traditional draw for retirees," Lehreah said.
To read more please click title.
To read more please click title.
Top 10 Cities Where to Buy Now
1. Panama City, FL
72% Projected gain in home prices (5-year)
Median home price2006: $223,0002011: $383,000
Population2006: 166,0002011: 187,000
Per capita income2006: $31,0002011: $40,200
72% Projected gain in home prices (5-year)
Median home price2006: $223,0002011: $383,000
Population2006: 166,0002011: 187,000
Per capita income2006: $31,0002011: $40,200
A small city needs one of two things to jack up housing demand: more people or wealthier people. Unlike the rest of Florida, Panama City hasn't really attracted either, mainly because it's isolated on Florida's panhandle.The interstate highway system bypasses it, and the runway at the local airport isn't long enough to support anything beyond regional jets. But now Panama City is poised to host big airliners, more visitors - and a lot more buyers.State and local governments and a top regional developer, St. Joe Co., are planning to build a new airport by 2008 at a cost of more than $300 million. Locals expect the new facility to open up the region the way Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers helped drive a housing boom along Florida's southwestern coast in the 1980s."Panama City is an economy waiting to break out," says Steven Cochrane, chief regional economist for Moody's Economy.com. Other factors increasing demand: Property prices are still low by Florida standards, and the local market has already absorbed a price correction after peaking last year.Janet Roan, a Century 21 agent in Panama City, notes that two-bedroom beachfront condos are going for as little as $330,000 - down by more than $100,000 from 2005.CAUTION: Local politicians, notoriously cozy with builders, have green-lighted several master-plan communities for future development. If supply gets out of hand, prices will stall.
To see more please click title.
Monday, October 23, 2006
U.S. population now 300 million and growing
POSTED: 11:50 a.m. EDT, October 17, 2006
(CNN) -- The United States became a nation of 300 million people Tuesday morning, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates.
Fueled by an estimated net gain of one person every 11 seconds, America -- the world's third most populous country -- joined China and India with populations greater than 300 million.
The main reason is simple: Births outnumber deaths. According to the Census Bureau, a child is born every seven seconds, but a death occurs every 13 seconds.
But immigration also plays a role. The Census Bureau estimates that a migrant enters the country every 31 seconds.
America claimed 100 million people in 1915 but didn't reach 200 million until 1967. The 400 millionth person is likely to arrive in 2043, according to the Census Bureau.
To Read more please click title.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Grubb & Ellis Commercial Overview
According to Grubb & Ellis commercial real estate should fare well in the coming year, but there will be some mid-course adjustments necessary for tenants, landlords, buyers and sellers.
Click title to read rest of report
Click title to read rest of report
On the decline
Moody's Economy.com looks at the 100 largest markets and predicts their tops, their bottoms - and total price drops.
October 6 2006: 11:42 AM EDT
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The housing market will get worse before it gets better - that's the finding of an analysis by Moody's Economy.com.
In the survey of 379 metro areas, the study's authors project that nearly 20 areas eventually could experience a "crash," or a decline of more than 10 percent from peak to trough. The most hard-hit areas will be in California, the Southwest coast of Florida, and in Arizona and Nevada.
Nationwide, the study forecasts a 3.6 percent decline in the sales price of existing homes.
The table below shows only those markets among the 100 largest by population that are forecast to have declines. In an analysis that considered mortgage rates, the local job market and other factors, the study makes projections on when those markets would peak, when they would hit their worst point, and what the total decline would be.
To view markets predicted to decline click title
October 6 2006: 11:42 AM EDT
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The housing market will get worse before it gets better - that's the finding of an analysis by Moody's Economy.com.
In the survey of 379 metro areas, the study's authors project that nearly 20 areas eventually could experience a "crash," or a decline of more than 10 percent from peak to trough. The most hard-hit areas will be in California, the Southwest coast of Florida, and in Arizona and Nevada.
Nationwide, the study forecasts a 3.6 percent decline in the sales price of existing homes.
The table below shows only those markets among the 100 largest by population that are forecast to have declines. In an analysis that considered mortgage rates, the local job market and other factors, the study makes projections on when those markets would peak, when they would hit their worst point, and what the total decline would be.
To view markets predicted to decline click title
Friday, October 13, 2006
Existing home sales could start bouncing back in 6 months in South Florida
Existing home sales across South Florida could rebound in the next three to six months, but demand for new homes probably won't pick up until 2008, a real estate analyst said Wednesday."The Realtors will get happy before the builders," Brad Hunter told more than 400 people attending an Urban Land Institute conference at the Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach.
The Realtor Association of Greater Fort Lauderdale
BROWARD COUNTY HOME PRICES APPEAR TO BE STABILIZING ACCORDING TO THE REALTOR® ASSOCIATION OF GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE
Average/Median Prices for Single Family Homes and Condo-TownhomesFORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - (October 4, 2006) - The REALTOR® Association of Greater Fort Lauderdale (RAGFL) reports prices for existing single family homes and condo-townhomes in Broward County appear to be stabilizing. RAGFL's just-released September home sales survey reveals the average sales price of condominiums-townhomes across Broward County was $250,532 in September, up slightly more than $7,000, or 3%, from August's figure of $243,468. This figure is nearly even with the average price one year ago of $251,078 and just $3,000 under 2005's record high of $253,621. The median price of a condo-townhome was $205,000 last month, exactly the same as in August and September 2005
Click Title for More Information
Average/Median Prices for Single Family Homes and Condo-TownhomesFORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - (October 4, 2006) - The REALTOR® Association of Greater Fort Lauderdale (RAGFL) reports prices for existing single family homes and condo-townhomes in Broward County appear to be stabilizing. RAGFL's just-released September home sales survey reveals the average sales price of condominiums-townhomes across Broward County was $250,532 in September, up slightly more than $7,000, or 3%, from August's figure of $243,468. This figure is nearly even with the average price one year ago of $251,078 and just $3,000 under 2005's record high of $253,621. The median price of a condo-townhome was $205,000 last month, exactly the same as in August and September 2005
Click Title for More Information
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Shipping Container Houses are Coming
Could America's record balance of payments deficit with China be the solution to low cost housing?
Might it even be an unprecedented opportunity to be environmentally responsible?
America is buying so much merchandise from other countries, primarily China, and selling so little back to them that shipping containers are actually becoming an environmental hazard. Apparently, it is cheaper to manufacture new containers on the other side of the world than to transport them empty back to where they originated.
For more information please click title.
Might it even be an unprecedented opportunity to be environmentally responsible?
America is buying so much merchandise from other countries, primarily China, and selling so little back to them that shipping containers are actually becoming an environmental hazard. Apparently, it is cheaper to manufacture new containers on the other side of the world than to transport them empty back to where they originated.
For more information please click title.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Home Price Comparison State by State
What it costs to buy a typical four-bedroom home in 342 cities.
Click on title to see more.
Top 10 Most Expensive Places to Live
State/City/Metro
2006 Sale Price
CA Beverly Hills $1,800,000
CA Santa Monica $1,766,666
CA La Jolla $1,762,500
CA Santa Barbara $1,700,000
CA Palo Alto $1,652,042
CA Newport Beach $1,566,250
CA San Jose $1,410,662
CT Greenwich $1,403,750
CA San Mateo $1,366,139
CA San Francisco $1,363,750
Top 10 least expensive places to live
State City/Metro 2006 Sale Price
ND Minot $132,333
TX Killeen $140,310
TX Arlington $140,975
MI Grayling $144,250
KS Topeka $148,050
OH Canton $148,333
OK Tulsa $148,575
MT Billings $150,141
TX Fort Worth $151,250
MI Cadillac $151,530
Click on title to see more.
Top 10 Most Expensive Places to Live
State/City/Metro
2006 Sale Price
CA Beverly Hills $1,800,000
CA Santa Monica $1,766,666
CA La Jolla $1,762,500
CA Santa Barbara $1,700,000
CA Palo Alto $1,652,042
CA Newport Beach $1,566,250
CA San Jose $1,410,662
CT Greenwich $1,403,750
CA San Mateo $1,366,139
CA San Francisco $1,363,750
Top 10 least expensive places to live
State City/Metro 2006 Sale Price
ND Minot $132,333
TX Killeen $140,310
TX Arlington $140,975
MI Grayling $144,250
KS Topeka $148,050
OH Canton $148,333
OK Tulsa $148,575
MT Billings $150,141
TX Fort Worth $151,250
MI Cadillac $151,530
Biggest Housing Inventories in US
Last year the housing market was so strong that new listings were in short supply. Today, as demand sags, inventories are way up.
BusinessWeek.com examines 10 markets in the country that have recently shouldered the burden of a huge increase in housing supply and looks at how quickly they have reacted with price drops.
Click on title to read more.
BusinessWeek.com examines 10 markets in the country that have recently shouldered the burden of a huge increase in housing supply and looks at how quickly they have reacted with price drops.
Click on title to read more.
America's Most Affordable Housing Markets
There is probably nothing that drives the average homeowner crazier than thinking he could have bought his house for less. Click on the title to read the 50 most affordable housing markets.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Smart Growth
Fifty-five percent of households in a smart-growth study NAR commissioned in late 2004 say they prefer to live in what was described as a smart-growth community—public transit options, sidewalks, mixed-housing styles, among other things—rather than a traditional suburban setting far out from the metropolitan core.
To read more click title for link.
To read more click title for link.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Clearwater Florida Downtown Redevelopment
The Clearwater Centre LLC project joins several other planned or ongoing housing initiatives downtown, including a 157-unit condominium tower called Water's Edge, which is replacing Calvary Baptist Church; the 146-condo unit Station Square; and another project along Fort Harrison Avenue.
"We certainly feel it's very important ... and with all the revitalization and renewal projects going on ... we think in a couple years' time it will be a totally different place for people to come and see," said Beth Coleman, chamber president. "It's a very exciting time for downtown Clearwater." To view full article please click on title.
"We certainly feel it's very important ... and with all the revitalization and renewal projects going on ... we think in a couple years' time it will be a totally different place for people to come and see," said Beth Coleman, chamber president. "It's a very exciting time for downtown Clearwater." To view full article please click on title.
To view the redevelopment plan for Clearwater Beach please visit:
Bayfront area
Multiplex
Beachwalk Project
http://www.clearwater-fl.com/gov/depts/pwa/engin/projects/beachwalk/index.asp
Downtown Redevelopment
http://www.clearwater-fl.com/gov/depts/econ_devel/projects/downtown/index.asp
Thursday, September 21, 2006
West Bay Development Plans
West Bay is rapidly becoming one of the best economic development opportunities in Florida. There are 75,000 acres available for mixed-use planned communites. The plans for West Bay include:
- Recently approved international airport
- Commerical office and industrial space totaling approximately 4.4 million square feet
- Preservation of West Bay wetlands
- Marinas and other recreational areas
- Approximately 5,400 new residential units
For more information please click title
Panama City Beach
The Florida Panhandle better known as the "Redneck Riviera", is on the top of our list of places to watch. The current real estate market has slowed and is undergoing a correction. In the interim the infrastructure in this region is readying itself for increased population. Discover why we think this will be a hot spot in the near future.
- FAA Signs Off on New Panama City Airport - The Bay County International Airport in in Panama City will be situated on 4,000 acres donated by Port St. Joe Co., a large real estate company founded by the Du Pont family in the 1930's.
Article: http://www.cpnonline.com/cpn/regions/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003123739
- Port St. Joe formed by the DuPont family over 70 years ago owns roughly 800,000 acres of undeveloped land. The board hired Rummell better known for Walt Disney Co.'s head of real estate, research and development to create seaside cottages, cabins in the woods, and coastal enclaves.
Article: http://www.heraldsun.com/tools/printfriendly.cfm?StoryID=770292
- Panama Beach to invest in tram system for beachgoers - The city council moved forward with plans for a six million dollar land purchase to implement a tram service in two to three years. Beachgoers could pick up the tram to various beach points. Dedicated tram lanes will be provided along Front Beach Road to enhance mobility and pedestrian safety and provide convenient access from planned multimodal centers and other parking facilities to attractions, beach access and accommodations.
Article: http://www1.wsvn.com/news/articles/local/MI27839/
- Pier Park by the Simon Group is a mixed use shopping, dining, and entertainment
complex. The complex will be opened by Fall 2006. The piers renovation will begin soon.
Article: http://www.simon.com/mall/LeasingSheet/PierPark1204.pdf
- Front Beach Road redevelopment area
Monday, September 18, 2006
Florida Condo Conversions
Condo Conversions: A Driving Force in Florida's Residential Markets By Orlando Camps, Cornerstone Group
MAY 15, 2006 --
If I were 25 years old again and buying my first home, there’s no question about what I would choose: a one-bedroom condominium conversion residence. Then, I would move up to a two- or three-bedroom unit after marrying and starting a family. In a time of rapidly rising land and construction costs, condo conversions are the most effective solution to providing highly affordable workforce-oriented housing. In the nation’s hottest real estate markets—such as Southeast Florida, where new land for development is virtually unattainable—condo conversions are the only way to quickly increase the supply of for-sale housing. To read more visit:
http://www.multi-housingnews.com/multihousing/reports_analysis/feature_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1002502676
Condo Conversions Turn Into Reversions
Monday August 7, 3:15 pm ET
By Vinnee Tong, AP Business Writer
AP Centerpiece: Condo Conversions Turn Into Reversions, Tapping Demand From Renters
NEW YORK (AP) -- Even when it was clear in December that the condo market was slowing, Ted Charron went ahead and bought a two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo in Tampa, Fla., where some industry experts say the froth is especially frothy.
He did not buy the condo to turn it for a quick profit, however, but to the tap growing demand for rentals, a by-product of the condo conversions that have swept through metropolitan areas nationwide.
"It wasn't a flip, more of a long-term investment," said Charron, an information technology director who works in nearby St. Petersburg. "Because there are so many of these conversions, there's just not a lot of places to rent, so I think the demand for rentals is actually going to go up."
Growing demand for rentals stems from many factors. Buyers are finding the market less affordable, leading to fewer sales and a greater pool of renters. And conversion of condos took rental inventory off the market. Now that demand for condos has cooled, conversions are slowing and in some instances, condos revert back to rentals. To read more visit:
http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/060807/condo_reversions.html?.v=3
A Condo Conversion Success story in Orlando
For more information please visit:
http://www.floridahomeloan.com/2006/04/condo-coversion-success-story-in.html
MAY 15, 2006 --
If I were 25 years old again and buying my first home, there’s no question about what I would choose: a one-bedroom condominium conversion residence. Then, I would move up to a two- or three-bedroom unit after marrying and starting a family. In a time of rapidly rising land and construction costs, condo conversions are the most effective solution to providing highly affordable workforce-oriented housing. In the nation’s hottest real estate markets—such as Southeast Florida, where new land for development is virtually unattainable—condo conversions are the only way to quickly increase the supply of for-sale housing. To read more visit:
http://www.multi-housingnews.com/multihousing/reports_analysis/feature_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1002502676
Condo Conversions Turn Into Reversions
Monday August 7, 3:15 pm ET
By Vinnee Tong, AP Business Writer
AP Centerpiece: Condo Conversions Turn Into Reversions, Tapping Demand From Renters
NEW YORK (AP) -- Even when it was clear in December that the condo market was slowing, Ted Charron went ahead and bought a two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo in Tampa, Fla., where some industry experts say the froth is especially frothy.
He did not buy the condo to turn it for a quick profit, however, but to the tap growing demand for rentals, a by-product of the condo conversions that have swept through metropolitan areas nationwide.
"It wasn't a flip, more of a long-term investment," said Charron, an information technology director who works in nearby St. Petersburg. "Because there are so many of these conversions, there's just not a lot of places to rent, so I think the demand for rentals is actually going to go up."
Growing demand for rentals stems from many factors. Buyers are finding the market less affordable, leading to fewer sales and a greater pool of renters. And conversion of condos took rental inventory off the market. Now that demand for condos has cooled, conversions are slowing and in some instances, condos revert back to rentals. To read more visit:
http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/060807/condo_reversions.html?.v=3
A Condo Conversion Success story in Orlando
For more information please visit:
http://www.floridahomeloan.com/2006/04/condo-coversion-success-story-in.html
Friday, September 01, 2006
Second Home Hot Spots for more info click here
International Living (http://www.internationalliving.com/), a magazine devoted to finding the best bargains in international living, pegs these as the 10 global “hot spots” for Americans looking for vacation homes in other countries.
Buenos Aires, Argentina. The Argentine peso, after nearly a decade pegged to the U.S. dollar, has leaped from a low of 19 cents to around 34 cents. But bargains still abound. For investors willing to move quickly, the opportunities in this cosmopolitan city are promising.
Chiang Mai, Thailand. Chiang Mai, Thailand’s arts and crafts center, was founded in 1296. The land is a patchwork of misty hills, rice fields, and jungle, and the city’s surrounding province is home to numerous hill tribes. It’s possible to buy attractive two-bedroom homes for less than $50,000.
Costa Maya and Laguna Bacalar, Mexico. The Mexican government is committed to transforming Costa Maya into its next great tourist destination by installing millions of dollars worth of infrastructure, including new roads, telephone and electricity networks, houses for employees, marina and beach installations, and docks for cruise ships. Property prices are on the rise and may one day rival the prices in Acapulco and Cancún.
The Mayans called Laguna Bacalar the “Lake of Seven Colors” and believed it was a magical place. Today, the area is an undiscovered gem. But, as development continues in the Riviera Maya region, this lake will begin to receive attention.
Dubrovnik, Croatia. A former city-state that once rivaled Venice, Dubrovnik dates back more than 1,300 years and is considered by many to be “The Pearl of the Adriatic.” With Croatia seeking membership in the European Union, prices are likely to climb in the next several years.
La Ceiba, Honduras. La Ceiba, the third-largest city in Honduras, has grown along with its ecological tourism and agricultural industries. La Ceiba residents enjoy Carribean beaches, mountains, and rivers. Construction prices start at just $35 per square foot for a simple, wooden house.
Montenegro. This small country in southeastern Europe borders the Adriatic Sea between Albania, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. Prices are less than $75 a square foot, although Russian buyers have pushed up prices for oceanfront lots. In a good location near the shore, houses typically sell for $150 to $200 per square foot.
Pacific Coast of Nicaragua. Pacific Coast property in Nicaragua remains one of the world’s best bargains. This dramatic coastline has rugged shores, cliffs and rocks, crashing surf, hidden coves, and pinkish white sand. Residents enjoy beaches reminiscent of Costa Rica or southern California, but at one-quarter or one-tenth the cost, respectively.
Panama City and Volcán, Panama. Panama is typically categorized as a Third World country, but the infrastructure, diversity, and sophistication of the country, especially in Panama City—with a metropolitan population of more than 1 million—tell a different story. The turnover of the Panama Canal in 1999 brought a glut of first-class properties to the market.
Volcán, located in the Chiriquí province in the west, offers spring-like climate year-round, fresh mountain air, and beautiful scenery. Buyers will spend half as much to own here but will miss some of the amenities and infrastructure of nearby Boquete.
Monday, August 07, 2006
MICRO LIVING
"Intelligent Living Spaces"
Finally, a brainy design for urban living! Micro living apartments offer elegant, petite spaces where no nook or cranny is wasted. There's a drop-down bed with built in lighting, a luxurious relaxing area and a private enclosed balcony. They include integrated appliances; Siemens combo microwave/grill, fridge with freezer box, mini dishwasher and his and her closets. Storage is provided by modules you climb up to reach. A smart and cozy cocoon for 21st century living.
Visit the following websites:
Award winning website with moving 3D image of living space module
http://www.abito.co.uk/abito_website.html
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/dc_design_small_space/article/0,1793,HGTV_3382_2885938,00.html
http://www.rinf.com/columnists/news/micro-living-come-back-to-my-ipad
http://la.apartmenttherapy.com/la/inspiration/the-micro-compact-home-010335
Finally, a brainy design for urban living! Micro living apartments offer elegant, petite spaces where no nook or cranny is wasted. There's a drop-down bed with built in lighting, a luxurious relaxing area and a private enclosed balcony. They include integrated appliances; Siemens combo microwave/grill, fridge with freezer box, mini dishwasher and his and her closets. Storage is provided by modules you climb up to reach. A smart and cozy cocoon for 21st century living.
Visit the following websites:
Award winning website with moving 3D image of living space module
http://www.abito.co.uk/abito_website.html
http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/dc_design_small_space/article/0,1793,HGTV_3382_2885938,00.html
http://www.rinf.com/columnists/news/micro-living-come-back-to-my-ipad
http://la.apartmenttherapy.com/la/inspiration/the-micro-compact-home-010335
Friday, August 04, 2006
REAL ESTATE ONLINE PRESENCE
Our real estate company, Vertical Realty Advisors, LLC is diligently working on formats to upload properties in Google Base, Trulia and other notable sites to make its resales more searchable online for query returns based on customer input.
This will enable Vertical Realty Advisors to link the properties to its own web site to obtain increased traffic volume when web surfers would like more information on the property. Bringing the websurfer into our website will expose them to the vertical real estate concept and additional properties we have to offer. Many home shoppers are starting their house search on the web.
See recent article:
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15462/
This will enable Vertical Realty Advisors to link the properties to its own web site to obtain increased traffic volume when web surfers would like more information on the property. Bringing the websurfer into our website will expose them to the vertical real estate concept and additional properties we have to offer. Many home shoppers are starting their house search on the web.
See recent article:
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15462/
Thursday, August 03, 2006
CONDO HOTEL
The Condo Hotel is a relatively new trend that has re-emerged in the past couple of years.They are very popular in vacation getaway sites--often featuring tropical settings and man-made beachfront. By combining the consumer's desire to invest in Real Estate with the travel industry's appetite for exciting and exotic locales it is a win-win situation. By focusing on the luxury lifestyle, condo hotels saw their rebirth in boom cities such as Miami, Orlando and Las Vegas. Many new developments can now be found around the globe and often have five star names attached such as Trump, Hilton, Four Seasons, The Regent, and Ritz Carlton as operators. These locales are defined by luxury amenities which include spas, resort pools, fine dining, concierge and access to leisure sports such as golf and tennis. Basically condo hotels are a hybrid combining the best of two worlds. Buyers own a specific unit and pay attendant taxes, insurance and maintenance. Owners block out a period of time for personal use. When not in use, it is placed in the rental program run by the management company which handles renting, cleaning and maintenance. Revenue generated is shared and oftentimes used to offset the cost of ownership.
Currently there is not a single organization that oversees condo hotels. An organization called NACHO (National Association of Condo Hotel Owners) is committed to the long term satisfaction of condo hotel unit owners to enhance and improve the condo hotel business through standardized code of business ethics, including objective disclosures, and practice. The organization has compiled research and created a rating system for condo hotels similar to the hotel diamonds or stars.
Similarly, BridgePoint reviews the different condo hotel project document contents to ensure beneficial terms for the end user. The selected management company to operate the resort is a critical determination factor in considering the project.
To learn more about NACHO visit:
The difference a water theme park can make:
http://www.jeffcoy.com/documents/articles/Construction%20Report202006.pdf
Condo Hotel Market in Orlando
http://www.hotel-online.com/News/PR2006_2nd/Apr06_OrlandoCondos.html
What is a condo hotel?
http://www.hvsinternational.com/Content/1470.pdf
Vegas condo hotel market
http://ahlaradio.hsyndicate.com/news//4027656.html
OVERSEAS REAL ESTATE BOOM
With the growth of the cruise industry and travel overseas, many baby boomers and second home buyers are seeing their next real estate purchase overseas. BridgePoint has been tracking this trend and researching all the intracacies of conducting business in foreign locations .
Some points of interest:
Some points of interest:
- Over 4 million Americans live abroad.
- Many are residing in the Carribean, Mexico, Central America, and other exotic locations known for their beautiful beaches or mountainous terrains.
- Many properties can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of property in the United States
- Taxation of property can be far lower abroad
Starting this year, NAR (National Association of Realtors) and SIMA (Europe's largest second home / resort expo of world wide properties) will join forces at The REALTORS® expo in New Orleans to introduce international forums and developers. Together they will bring a showcase of international properties to the expo floor.
Bridgepoint will attend The REALTORS® expo to recruit and inform real estate agents on the details of the Bridgepoint solution and price protection. This will enable the company to partner with agents, developers, and global brokerage firms to market the end product.
To view more information on international real estate visit:
INDUSTRY NEWS
Our due diligence team stays up to date with the latest real estate industry news. Bridgepoint would like to share the most interesting news stories we come across each month. We will categorize the links so that you may choose your areas of interest.
Las Vegas
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13463457/
Orlando
http://www.orlandoedc.com/core/file.php?loc=/Documents/EDC%20Documents/Recent%20Articles/eWeek_061506.pdf
http://www.inc.com/magazine/20060501/boomtowns-large.html
Panama City
Read about Pier Park completion date 2007
http://www.ajc.com/travel/content/travel/beaches/stories/0521panamabeach.html
Atlanta
http://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/stories/2006/07/24/daily33.html?from_rss=1
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15482/
http://www.builderonline.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=26&articleID=346422
Market Trends
Baby Boomer Online Shopping
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15461/
Canadian Investment in American Real Estate
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15460/
Las Vegas
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13463457/
Orlando
http://www.orlandoedc.com/core/file.php?loc=/Documents/EDC%20Documents/Recent%20Articles/eWeek_061506.pdf
http://www.inc.com/magazine/20060501/boomtowns-large.html
Panama City
Read about Pier Park completion date 2007
http://www.ajc.com/travel/content/travel/beaches/stories/0521panamabeach.html
Atlanta
http://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/stories/2006/07/24/daily33.html?from_rss=1
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15482/
http://www.builderonline.com/industry-news.asp?sectionID=26&articleID=346422
Market Trends
Baby Boomer Online Shopping
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15461/
Canadian Investment in American Real Estate
http://www.rismedia.com/index.php/article/view/15460/
BREAKING GROUND
Welcome to our online Blog! To effectively keep you posted on real estate industry trends, we have created this blog to bring you the most current industry-related information in the preconstruction industry. Updates will be posted as we encounter noteworthy developments in Real Estate, Preconstruction, Condo Hotels, International Investing, Green Building, etc...
We would appreciate your comments and suggestions. There is a comment link below each topic for you to post your responses.
We would appreciate your comments and suggestions. There is a comment link below each topic for you to post your responses.
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