Market Report for Tallahassee, FL Real Estate Sales

Tallahassee Real Estate Sales for the year 2011 were down, however the GOOD NEWS is that September Sales were UP 8%. Personally, this was the most productive year in the past three years. Marketing efforts both of listings and my efforts to acquire Tallahassee home buyers are paying off. Our real estate sales team and concierge staff has grown to three Realtors and an assistant to help our customers experience seamless real estate transactions. Meet the Tallahassee Real Estate Sales Team. Search for Tallahassee area homes for sale. Let us know how we can help you purchase or sell your Tallahassee area home.

What do your neighborhood sales look like? Ask us for a neighborhood sales report. Looking for homes for sale in a particular Tallahassee neighborhood, Check AREA INFO neighborhoods we have identified, or structure your own neighborhood, zip code or city search in our Property Organizer. Have new listing alerts sent to you immediately!

Compiled via Tallahassee Board of Realtors MLS (Multiple Listing Service) data as of October 26, 2011.

Education is a requirement set for the in the REALTOR Code of Ethics. Higher ethical standards for members of the National Association of Realtors involve dealing with the public, with fellow Realtors, and for setting the bar higher for Realtors as individuals. There are many educational events you may hear Realtors today discussing. Last fall I attended 2010 National Association of Realtors Conference in New Orleans. In the winter I attended the NAR Mid-Winter Business Meeting, This spring the XPlode Technology conference and this summer will be at the Gainesville and Orlando REBarCamp events and the Florida Realtors Annual Conference in August.

These events aren’t just for fun, although we try to make the most of it. These are necessary educational meetings that showcase hot marketing topics, marketing products and trending technology business building tools that are necessary to conduct the daily business of real estate sales.

The day before the NAR Conference, I attended the Real Estate BarCamp in New Orleans. Open to 200 or so agents who registered weeks before the conference, the “un-conference” was standing room only. Agents and technology leaders gathered to create a schedule of various classes that spawned creative discussions on topics such as Realtor Property Resource program development, mobile phone applications, Google Tools, Geo-tagging and blogging strategies. People may wonder what a Realtor would need with this type of knowledge. Believe it or not, Realtors don’t just ride people around in their cars.

Real estate is a consumer demand profession. Real estate brokerages are re-defining their business models with the  demand that consumers place on them. Finding the happy medium between consumer demand and Realtor schedules is a constant challenge. Brokers struggle to support the needs of their agents and agents are constantly learning the most effective ways to serve their customers. (more…)

The City of Tallahassee owns it’s utility company, currently an adversarial and contentious point of discussion. It’s an item that is coming up again and again, among many other items in the political candidate interviews and forums leading to the August 2010 primary

The high cost of  in Tallahassee has certainly affected the ability for buyers to purchase homes. High utility rates in Tallahassee must be considered when purchasing homes. Working within a buyers budget and making sure home-buyers know the utility history of a property should be part of the research done prior to making an offer. It is part of the due diligence that Realtors incorporate into their responsibilities to their customers. For now, the City of Tallahassee has offered rebates for energy efficient home improvements. If you have an old appliance, check with the City and see if you qualify for a rebate before you make a purchase!  If you are doing home improvements, call me for a list of licensed contractors who can help you make improvements that are legal, permitted and in proper compliance with local building codes and neighborhood restrictions.

Tallahassee offers huge rebates for heat pump water heaters

Aug 5, 2010 3:11 PM, BY ROBERT P. MADER Of CONTRACTOR’s staff

TALLAHASSEE, FLA. — Imagine being able to offer customers a heat pump water heater for little more than the price of your labor. That’s what contractors here are doing since the city-owned utility doubled its energy efficiency rebates through Sept. 30, 2010. The City of Tallahassee Utilities is offering a $1,200 rebate until the end of September to consumers who replace a standard electric water heater with a heat pump water heater. The units must be Energy Star rated, so water heaters such as Rheem’s HP-50 and HP-40 and GE’s GeoSpring water heater will comply. Moreover, the water heaters qualify for a federal energy tax credit of up to $480, so the equipment itself is essentially free to the homeowner.

Rheem is heavily promoting the incentives to its dealers. With an estimated retail price of $1,599 for its heat pump water heater, the combination of Tallahassee utility incentives and the federal tax credits, which run through Dec. 31, means the homeowner will make $81 on the equipment.

Laura Butler, Rheem Water Heating marketing communications manager, pointed out that the estimated labor costs of approximately $300-$700 also qualify for a federal energy rebate, bringing the installed cost down to about $490. Moreover, because the equipment is more efficient, the heat pump water heater will have an operating cost of approximately $270 a year, $317 a year less than a standard electric water heater. The heat pump water heater also carries a 10-year warranty.

“This is a great opportunity for Tallahassee homeowners to lower their water heating bills while installing an Energy Star-certified hybrid water heater at an exceptionally affordable price through the various federal and local incentives — but without making any sacrifices in comfort and convenience for their families,” said Peter Reynolds, Rheem Water Heating general manager.

To see the entire article

Here’s a list of great homes that have been on the market for a while, that are bridesmaids, not brides.  For whatever reason, they are either over-improved, on too big of a lot, not big enough of a lot, kitchen too small, not enough bedrooms, not enough baths,  and on and on!  These Tallahassee, FL homes are priced to sell, ready for immediate occupancy, remodeled, immaculate, and incredible deals in the Tallahassee real estate market!

It only takes one home-buyer so who do you know.. these homes are priced to sell.. and just need ONE buyer.

4103 Cornish Drive:  We gutted this home, rebuilt it from the inside out. From floors to ceilings, kitchen to heating and air, exterior walls to roof. Even new landscaping and grading of yard.  It’s the most affordable of the single-family home listings in Northeast Tallahassee. A single-family home, rebuilt,. for $129,000.

7103 Atascadero Dr.  An immaculate custom built home on .75 acre hilltop lot overlooking treetops of a preserve in Northeast Tallahassee, Florida. Immaculate, one-owner, ready for occupancy! Gated community of Walden Place, all homes built 2005-2008. Minimum sq. footage is 2000 sq. ft ranging to 3500 sq.ft. All brick homes. Luxury interiors.  $329,000 for this gorgeous home.

2252 Ten Oaks Drive:  Looking for a family that LOVES nature..and wants to feel like they are on vacation every day!  Unique, custom-built – Ultra-Log construction on 4 acres in Killearn Lakes, Tallahassee, FL. Detached workshop with loft makes it a true retreat! Energy efficient and magnificent interior!  $299,500 ~ Ready for occupancy now!

Are you looking for a home bargain in Tallahassee? Contact Debbie today!

Happy last day of 2009. For many, this is a year they’d like to forget… for others it’s a year to remember.  What ever your reflections of 2009 may be, I wish you health, happiness, and success in 2010! I decided to highlight a few things about real estate,. and a few things about my life in general this year. Good bad or ugly, these are the things that influenced my life this year.

Wishing you success in 2010

In the real estate industry there have been lots of changes, not all for the good, but these were HOT topics of discussion, success and challenges of 2009:

• Tax Credits: The most tweeted about, discussed and rediscussed issue of 2009 in real estate. It is what helped first time home-buyers acquire homes in 2008 and what sustained many down-turned market area, including mine!
• Tax Credit Extensions: maybe redundant.. but deserves two slots in the top 10. Again, this extension and the credit for current homeowners was pivotal in 2009 for many home-buyers and the trickle effect of sales and tax rebate money was felt in many areas including Realtor commissions, home repairs, supplies, furniture sales, etc. Give people money, they will spend it.
• Social Media Marketing Infusion into real estate marketing plans. Facebook and Twitter, LinkedIn, Zillow, Trulia, blogging and sometimes public flogging..it certainly has emerged into a part of every forward thinking, insightful, and creative marketing professional. Here’s Mashables “10 of the Best Social Media Tools for Entrepreneurs”. Like it or not, technology is going to grow… and fast.
• Video: In my opinion video has opened the doors again for marketing, for communications, for sales and service. It’s a two way portal to the future and to every aspect of business and our lives. Look for more video Emails, Marketing, Postings, Documentation than ever before in 2010 as well!
• Foreclosures:  If you can see, hear and have picked up a paper or magazine,you know the dilemma our nation has faced with the number of home foreclosures on the books. What you may not know, is how it has affected our markets… If you really want to know, ask someone who has a home for sale right now. Homes sold below market value simply because of overstock supplies have devastated equity nest eggs of those who have attempted to sell their homes in less than 7 years.  Short term investments have lost money, just as the stock market and other investments.  I agree with this article that Foreclosures in 2009 will top 2008. We can only hope that  re-addressing ways to counsel those who have suffered losses and repair credit issues for those affected will be a focus of 2010 so that they can purchase again in good faith and with a renewed spirit and ability to own a home in the future. Seven years can seem like an eternity.
• Short Sales: There have been more short sales classes in my area and in my State than any other continuing education classes. As difficult as banks have been in handling these issues, some Realtors have been equally as difficult. Either they are uneducated.. or the rules keep changing. It’s really a little of both. However, you would think we have a duty as Realtors to “consult” with customers. Really? Who forgot that from real estate 101 anyway?  for most Realtors who are sticking by their industry and who have a sense of the core of their industry, this is not new,.. it is simply an adjustment to business as usual. Sometimes we work harder than others, it’s just that simple. I’m amazed at those who say, “I won’t work with short sales.” That’s a bit elitist if you ask me. Get out there and let’s deal with this so we can all move on.
• Politics and the real estate industry. How about politics and every facet of our lives. All I can say on this.. is GET INVOLVED.  If you want to say anything to me at all about politics, tell me first that you have told someone, preferably and elected or appointed official, about it first. Otherwise, you are part of the problem.

On a lighter note, there were a few really funny things that made me smile, and laugh, a lot in 2009!

• Sometimes you just have to take a break.. and YouTube certainly provides a few laughs. Several funny videos came to mind,.. or my mind at least, as you may not see the humor. Nothing cures a bad day like humor, and in most cases you have to laugh to keep from crying.. but these were particularly inspiring…. JK Wedding Entrance Dance, Bacon Is Good For Me!, and Susan Boyle’s success story.  Lessons:  Dance like there is no tomorrow, have your bags packed just in case things don’t work out,.. and never judge a book by it’s cover.
• Then there are the moments that inspire.. funny, most seem to come from children. The latest.. I have worked with customers for 7 years.. before this young man who is now 5 was born. So, when we finally see each other and begin our home search a priceless moment arrives. I hug mom first at our greeting, .. then little man,.. and he looks at me and says,..”What about him?”, pointing to dad…of course.. a hug for dad too!
• Of course, there are the moments that you have to laugh at yourself. I could probably write a book on dumb Realtor mishaps, but nothing takes the cake this year like the day I was previewing, alone, a house for a customer. Rule #1 always check locks before you let a door slam behind you. As I entered a second story porch, with no exit, the door slams behind me only to lock me out of the house. Oh, I am smart, I have a key, but the key doesn’t work for that lock. Thank God I have my phone,.. and I can call another Realtor who can come to my rescue!  There are others I am ashamed to put to print, at least until I retire and need money for a comedy film or book.

A few really great things that happened, of course, center around the people I have met throughout the year. Not all are in person yet, but all have made a difference in my career and in my personal life.

• The “Twitterqueens” Twitter of all things opened the door that was partially cracked open for me early in 2009. In my quest for like-minded professionals I stumbled upon @HeyAmaretto and @LesleyLambert early in the year, and the adventures unfolded from there. We spoke many times on a personal basis, and many more times on twitter. I have learned from them, we have walked through some storms together, and we keep the lines of communication open for ourselves and others that are truly growing their businesses and social networks. My days and evenings usually involve a few shout outs to the ladies and gents of the Twitterqueens and often a few toasts for things unspoken.
• REBarCamps: I attended my first this year in Miami in September 2009. After following many of the speakers and social media presenters for months, I was able to make it to Miami for a day of networking and learning that brought all that I had been trying to accomplish together for me.  My connections to these folks have gotten deeper, and my understanding broadened as a result.
• Ultimately,  My website re-design and re-focus of my business and the scope of community that I was trying to accomplish all rolled together after this meeting and is on it’s way to being a great resource and a lot of fun for those looking not only for real estate in Tallahassee, but who want to know more about our community. It’s a work in progress, but it is my life. If you want to know about the Tallahassee, FL and surrounding area, give me a shout.
• And lastly..Cancer.  Just the word makes me shake. This year, in May I celebrated my 7th year remission from breast cancer with people from my Board of Realtors at the Tallahassee Relay for Life.  I walked beside survivors and I walked hand in had with my dear friend David,  facing a struggle which took his life in September. By far, the most honorable, yet hardest task of my life to date, was speaking at his service. My father fought liver cancer this year and won his battle.. my Board President fought lymphoma and is winning his battle thusfar, and yet many more are still suffering. This is the one constant in life that we just can’t seem to shake.. the loss of those we love.. the battle with cancer. All we can do is fight, give..continue to research and come up with treatment that prolongs our time with those we love. If you gave towards this cause, I thank you,.. if you continue to give, I thank you.. and if you promise to give in 2010, you will receive thanks tenfold.  If you remember nothing else about my ramblings today, remember this.. life is precious, it is to be sucked up, invested in our bodies, minds and spirits and those gifts are meant to be shared with others. Let none of us forget what we owe each other, what we owe this thing called life.

Happy 2010 Everyone!

From Debbie Kirkland… @FloridaSunSales

Do I Qualify For The Tax Credit?

I’ve received calls this week about the extended tax credit from several current home-owners. This Tax credit was extended to a brief window in 2010. Now, not only is there a ta credit for first time buyers, but long term homeowners who want to sell and move as well.

If you or someone you know someone you know are considering  a move in 2010, DO NOT miss this tax savings!  Things will most likely be very different in 2010 as our government re-considers tax credits and the ability to keep offering these credits. Do not assume they will last. There will be an end, and there is no proposal at present or predicted to continue these tax credits.

Call Debbie Kirkland, your Realtor and Real Estate Professional if you have questions on selling your home or purchasing before April 30, 2010.  Debbie Kirkland, Realtor  850-212-0440

The rules are below:

For a link to this IRS Publication Click Here

IRS Special Edition Tax Tip 2009-13

If you are in the market for a new home, you may still be able to claim the First-Time Homebuyer Credit. Congress recently passed The Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act Of 2009, extending the First-Time Homebuyer Credit and expanding who qualifies.

Here are the top 10 things the IRS wants you to know about the expanded credit and the qualifications you must meet in order to qualify for it.

1. You must buy – or enter into a binding contract to buy a principal residence – on or before April 30, 2010.
2. If you enter into a binding contract by April 30, 2010 you must close on the home on or before June 30, 2010.
3. For qualifying purchases in 2010, you will have the option of claiming the credit on either your 2009 or 2010 return.
4. A long-time resident of the same home can now qualify for a reduced credit. You can qualify for the credit if you’ve lived in the same principal residence for any five-consecutive year period during the eight-year period that ended on the date the new home is purchased and the settlement date is after November 6, 2009.
5. The maximum credit for long-time residents is $6,500. However, married individuals filing separately are limited to $3,250.
6. People with higher incomes can now qualify for the credit. The new law raises the income limits for homes purchased after November 6, 2009. The full credit is available to taxpayers with modified adjusted gross incomes up to $125,000, or $225,000 for joint filers.
7. The IRS will issue a December 2009 revision of Form 5405 to claim this credit. The December 2009 form must be used for homes purchased after November 6, 2009 – whether the credit is claimed for 2008 or for 2009 – and for all home purchases that are claimed on 2009 returns.
8. No credit is available if the purchase price of the home exceeds $800,000.
9. The purchaser must be at least 18 years old on the date of purchase. For a married couple, only one spouse must meet this age requirement.
10. A dependent is not eligible to claim the credit.

For more information about the expanded First-Time Homebuyer Credit, visit IRS.gov/recovery.

Links:

First-Time Homebuyer Credit

IR-2009-108, First-Time Homebuyer Credit Extended to April 30, 2010; Some Current Homeowners Now Also Qualify

YouTube Videos:

Recovery: New Homebuyer Credit – November 2009