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        <title>Cape Coral Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/buying/</link>
        <description>Cape Coral real estate news and info, Fort Myers, Lehigh Acres and surrounding Southwest Florida communities. Search Cape Coral real estate property. Information for sellers and buyers of Cape Coral Real Estate. The latest on homes for sale in Cape C</description>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-home-buying-process.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-home-buying-process.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Cape Coral Home Buying Process</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Cape Coral Home Buying Process


Tip for Home
Buyers: The Number One Way to Lose the Home of Your Dreams


Whether you
are looking to purchase a Cape Coral property for your primary home, an
investment property, or to join the ever-growing group of snowbirds who enjoys
Southwest Florida as a winter retreat, you certainly don't want to lose your
dream home after you've put in an offer. 


Just picture
it. You decided on your price range, square footage, location, and compared at
least half a dozen Cape Coral properties. You finally found the one that
exactly fits your specifications, make an offer and...the home is sold right
out from under you. Wait, no...That's not the way the story is supposed to end,
is it? Unfortunately, there is one top reason why this occurs. Want to prevent
this scenario from happening to you? Keep reading...


Understanding the Cape Coral Home Buying Process...No,
REALLY Understanding


The home
buying process is pretty simple and straightforward, when you understand how it
all works together. Here's a breakdown of the steps, along with the reasons
"why" the steps are there. 


Gathering the Necessary Information
to Qualify for a Mortgage


Believe it
or not, this is the number one reason most potential buyers we have encountered
lately have lost the home they really wanted. It's not that they don't have the
finances, actually, that would be okay. So, you thought you could buy the home
and it turns out you can't really afford it. But instead, many home buyers and
investors who have the funds fail to take the time to gather the necessary information
and the seller ends up taking another offer. Frustrating? Yes, but completely
avoidable! Here's how:




Financing Your Cape Coral Home or Property - If you plan on financing your new
Cape Coral home, you'll need a letter of pre-approval. This is different than prequalification.
Prequalification just means your potential lender has taken your information
"at your word" and provided you with a rough estimate of your lending
capabilities. 




 


On the other hand, a preapproval letter means that you've actually applied
for the loan, all your credentials have checked out, and your funding is
secure. If you will be financing your home, a letter of preapproval is vital.
Why? It shows the seller you are serious about purchasing a home, so, when your
offer is on the table with other potential buyers and YOU have a letter of
preapproval, you have the upper hand. Your offer is much more likely to be
accepted. 




Cash Buyers - If you plan on paying cash for
your property, you will still need proof of funds. Just because you are aware of your net worth and
your available funds, doesn't mean a thing to the seller. You will need to
produce one of the following documents:




 


1.  Original bank statement


2.  Open equity line of credit


3.  Certified financial statement


4.  Online banking printout


5.  Copy of your money market
balance


 


Seems like a
pretty simple reason to lose your dream house, doesn't it? When you are busy
searching for a home, you may not always think of this part, especially if you
know you have the financing. Remember, in order to increase your bargaining and
negotiating power and to have the best chance of your offer being accepted,
give the seller peace of mind by providing proof of your finances or a
pre-approval letter. 


 


Additional perk?
You'll enjoy a faster closing period (which again, strengthens your buying
power). If you are ready to begin searching for your perfect Cape Coral
property, give us a call today. We'll be happy to assist you, and we'll make
sure your dream home doesn't get away!


 


 


 


 


 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 08 Aug 2011 11:45:54 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/first-time-home-buyer-confusion-buster.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/first-time-home-buyer-confusion-buster.html</link>
            <author>david@davidsporleder.com (David Sporleder)</author>
            <title>First Time Home Buyer Confusion Buster</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
First Time Home Buyer Confusion Buster!


If you are a first time home buyer  you've got two things on your mind right now.





First, you have the dream and the goal of owning
your own Cape Coral real estate. Maybe you're family is about to grow or
possibly you are just wanting to break out of the renter's rut. Renting can fit
a certain lifestyle for a while, but there comes a day when living in such
close quarters just isn't cutting it anymore. 


Second, you are wondering what you really need
to know about making that all important first purchase. Maybe you've never
followed the real estate market. Why would you? Now you are searching for
answers and feel like you are taking a crash course in home buying 101. 




If this sounds familiar, you've come to the right place. Are
there certain things you need to know? Of course, but they may not be what you
think. Many first time home buyers make the mistake of trying to understand
real estate values and spend a lot of unnecessary time looking for the hidden,
hot deals that might be out there, when they aren't even fully prepared to make
their first home purchase. Those things should be left in the hands of your
qualified real estate agent. Here is a list of the things you'll need to do before
you begin your search for that perfect Cape Coral property. 


First Time Home Buyer
Checklist




Get Your
Credit in Order - Pull up your credit report (it's free online) from both
major credit bureaus. Find out what your credit score is and check it for
inaccuracies. Your credit score will play a big part in your ability to secure
financing. 




 




Get Pre-approved
- Once you are certain your credit score is accurate, it's time to contact your
potential lender. Start with your bank. You'll want a letter of pre-approval.
This is completely different than getting pre-qualified. Pre-approval is a
guarantee that your lender will loan you a certain amount of money, just as
long as the Cape Coral property you are looking to purchase appraises higher
than the amount you are looking to borrow. 
Securing a pre-approval letter not only lets you know exactly what your
home budget is, but it also will put you in the front of the line when it comes
to bidding on a home. Often, a homeowner will accept a lower bid from a
potential buyer who has pre-approval from their lender just because it's a sure
thing. Another potential buyer may talk a good talk and offer a higher bid, but
without pre-approval, there's no way the homeowner can be sure their loan will
go through. Bottom line? Pre-approval gives you the upper hand.




 




Get Your
Finances in Order - The down payment and the closing costs are two expenses
you will be expected to come up with upfront. To be safe, expect your down
payment to be 10% of the entire  loan, so
a $100,000 Cape Coral property would need a $10,000 down payment. If you
qualify for certain loans, your down payment could be as low as 3.5%, but the
more you have tucked away, the more opportunities you will have.




 




Make Your
List -  Before looking for a home,
have a good idea of the size, the location, and the features you are looking
for in your ideal home. Divide these into two columns. The Must Have Column
could possibly include number of bedrooms, garage size, or proximity to
shopping or activities. The other column should list extras you are looking for
in your ideal home, but can live without. By committing a list to paper, you'll
apt to be more rational when you start looking at homes and won't become easily
confused. 




By doing these things before contacting  your real estate agent you will be a well
prepared, serious buyer, and you will be able to make a quality decision based
on cost, location, and features. You won't spend countless months window
shopping for a home that you aren't even sure you can afford. 


By bringing your list of specifications with you when you
meet with your real estate agent there will be no question as to the home that
is right for you. Your agent will be well equipped to find the perfect home at
the lowest possible price, and since you are pre-approved your agent will be
able to negotiate with confidence on great deals that have just hit the market.



If you are looking to purchase your first home, whether it
is a Cape Coral waterfront home or another Cape Coral property, give us a call
today. You'll be glad you did!
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 21 Apr 2011 21:38:54 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/florida-real-estate-the-truth-about-homeowner-warranties.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/florida-real-estate-the-truth-about-homeowner-warranties.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Florida Real Estate: The Truth About Homeowner Warranties</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


 


Purchasing a home in Cape Coral? Looking for piece of mind with that purchase? Read on... 


If you think of a home
warranty as a builders policy that only applies to new construction; think
again. Florida home warranties are often offered or requested as part of a Cape Coral home
purchase and can be used as a form of security when selling a home. 


A home warranty offered by a
reputable company promises to pay for the repair or replacement of appliances,
plumbing, air conditioning, and other things that can possibly go wrong with
your new home. Compared to the cost, which averages between 300 and 500 dollars
per year, a home warranty can be your best friend when your appliances begin to
break down. 


Florida is a bit different
than other parts of the nation. If you are running on well water, there is the
possibility of corrosion to your pipes, joints and elements that are exposed to
your well water. Copper pipes are especially vulnerable over the years when
exposed to Florida's elements. A home warranty can include all of your interior
plumbing and can even insure that your drywall is restored to a paintable
condition in the event of a pipe burst or extensive damage due to a leak.  For more information on the quality of your
drinking water, check the United
States Environmental Protection Agency website. 


Most of the time your
repairs won't be as dramatic or extensive as a burst pipe, but it's the little
things like a faulty dishwasher or a dying heating element on a water heater
that can add up to big bucks at unexpected times. With a home warranty in
place, if anything goes wrong with your covered appliances, all it takes is one
call to the main number to send a repair crew to your home; generally within 24
to 48 hours. The repair crew then decides whether to repair the appliance or to
replace it, for a deductible rate which is usually between 50 and 75 dollars.
That certainly beats the price of a brand new appliance and allows you to
better budget your finances, without having to allow for the replacement cost
of broken appliances. 


Although your home insurance
can be called upon to repair damage due to a hurricane or other catastrophes, a
solid home warranty in place can offer almost immediate service in the event of
an appliance repair or replacement. 


Warranties can be purchased
by either the buyer or the seller. If you are planning on selling your home in
the near future, a home warranty, sometimes referred to as a repair service
contract, can sometimes be the turning point of the deal.  Offering a warranty can set your home apart
from the competition and cause your home to be taken more seriously than others
near the same price point and location.  Buyers will feel more comfortable about buying
your home without the worry of hidden problems. Providing a home warranty can
even result in a higher purchase price. All in all, a home warranty is an
excellent selling tool that helps make it easier for a buyer to agree to a
price. 


If you are purchasing a home
in Cape Coral or Southwest Florida that does not come with a home warranty, you may want to
request one from the seller. If this is not an option, you may consider
purchasing one for yourself. Having a one year home warranty in place while
settling into your new home can come in handy if something breaks down when you
don't have a lot of extra cash on hand. 


For additional information
on home warranties, please contact our
offices to speak with a real estate agent. We will be more than happy to
assist you with your questions or concerns. 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2009 08:18:37 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/the-abcs-of-florida-homestead-exemption-and-save-our-homes.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/the-abcs-of-florida-homestead-exemption-and-save-our-homes.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>The ABC's of Florida Homestead Exemption and Save Our Homes</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


If you've recently purchased a home in Cape Coral or Southwest Florida and are
still in the process of familiarizing yourself with the ins and outs of home
ownership, here are some vital tips that you'll need to be aware of in order to
take advantage of what is available to you. 


Florida has two wonderful programs that can greatly benefit
a homeowner, just as long as you are aware of them, their deadlines for
applying, and make sure you have all of your qualifications and paperwork in
order. 


Florida Homestead Exemption


The state of Florida allows up to $50,000 homestead exemption to be
deducted from the assessed value of the home for qualified owners.  Applicants who qualify must file by March 1st
and have been residing in their home from January 1st of the filing year.
Qualifications include the following:


If you are applying for Florida homestead exemption, you must have a valid Florida Driver’s License and a
Florida vehicle license plate. If you own multiple vehicles, at least one
vehicle must be registered in Florida. 


You'll also need to provide proof of United States
citizenship, your Social Security Number and your Lee County Voter's
Registration Number. If you are a non-voter, you will be required to complete a
Declaration of Domicile. If you are not a United States citizen, you may still
be able to take advantage of the homestead exemption by providing a valid Permanent
Resident Alien Card. Temporary visas and work visas do not qualify. 


Proof of home ownership by presenting a copy of your Lee
County tax bill or recorded Deed is also required.  In order to qualify for the exemption, your
Lee County Florida home must also be your primary residence. 


What Else? 


If you qualify for the standard homestead exemption, you
also automatically qualify for the additional homestead exemption and the "Save
Our Homes" limitation. 


Save Our Homes is a constitutional benefit approved by the state
of Florida in 1992. This benefit places a 3 percent tax increase limitation on
annual assessments for properties that have been granted Homestead Exemption. The
way it works is pretty straightforward. The initial year's assessed value
becomes the base value for the 3 percent increase limitation. The following
year, the assessed value cannot rise more than 3 percent of the Consumer Price
Index. Exceptions include portions of the property that are rented, new
additions or construction, as well as any items that have been overlooked or
escaped taxation in error over the past years. 


If and when you sell your property, the assessed value
returns to fair market value for the year following the sale and that becomes
the base price for the new homestead applicant, should they qualify.  Save Our Homes base values cannot be
transferred from one homeowner to the next. 


What is Portability?


Although the Save Our Homes values or the Homestead
exemption cannot be transferred between owners, you can take it with you from
one home to the next. 


If you have already qualified for the Homestead Exemption in
the state of Florida and are relocating to a new Florida home, be sure to take
your benefits with you. 


The Florida Homestead Exemption "Save Our Homes"
benefit is now portable due to an amendment that was approved in 2008. 


How does Portability Work?


Because of the new amendment, you can now transfer some or
all of your previous home's Save Our Home benefits to your new property in an
amount up to $500,000. Certain rules apply, so it doesn't automatically mean
that the entire differential of your previous home will transfer over, but it
might. In order to get what is coming to you, simply complete a Transfer of
Homestead Assessment Difference form and submit it between January 1st and March
1st in order to take advantage of the transfer.  


You can read more about Florida Homestead Exemption Information and
the Save Our Homes program at the Lee County
Property Appraiser's Website.


Buying Cape Coral Real Estate, why get a home inspection? 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:40:22 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/buying-a-home-in-cape-coral-southwest-florida-a-home-inspection-is-vital.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/buying-a-home-in-cape-coral-southwest-florida-a-home-inspection-is-vital.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Buying a Home in Cape Coral / Southwest Florida? A Home Inspection is Vital</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


If you're in the market for a home in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, or Lehigh Acres, Florida, it is highly advised that you obtain a Florida home inspection by a licensed professional before signing on the dotted line.Florida, unlike the northern states or countries abroad, has its own set of issues that only a professional would know how to detect. Sure, it's great to be able to walk through a house and notice the slight spotting of water damage showing through the freshly painted ceiling, or discover a poorly insulated attic, but what about the issues that can't be easily detected with the naked eye?There are a host of items on a Florida home inspection checklist. Here is a list of a few of them:Chinese DrywallMany people aren't even sure what Chinese Drywall is, they've just heard the buzz about it being dangerous. If you are unclear about this tainted drywall, here's a brief description:In short, Chinese Drywall refers to drywall imported to the United States from China, from 2001 to 2007. The danger involves the gasses that are emitted from the drywall due to its method of production. Not only do these gasses produce a foul odor and pose a health concern, but they also damage property, including copper plumbing, electrical wiring, your air conditioner as well as other electronics and appliances.Your Florida home inspector has a special kit and knows exactly what to look for, since many homes may be a combination of contaminated and non-contaminated drywall. Once a home has received the proper inspections, it can then be certified as "Chinese Drywall Free."TermitesTermites are a pesky nuisance in the state of Florida. Since most homes are created from concrete block, structural damage is rare, but these wood boring insects can still affect the inner frame of your home. Older homes are more at risk, but any home should be inspected for termites.Mold Issues: Florida's weather is very conducive to the growth of bacteria and mold. Once a mold problem starts in a home, it can be difficult to get rid of, and can be the source of breathing problems and a list of other serious illnesses.Mold begins when there is moisture in an area of the house that has poor ventilation. Oftentimes, mold spores will then transfer to your return air vent and cause them to become dispersed throughout the home.Structural Damage and RoofingHome inspectors also check for structural damage and roofing problems. A roof replacement is a costly undertaking so purchasing a roof that is free from repairs and relatively new is the best choice.Water and PlumbingYour home inspector will not only check plumbing for leaks. He will also make sure the water supply and drainage systems are operating properly along with any pool pumps or heating elements. Did you stop to check if the hot water heater is operating properly or if it is rusted on the bottom of the tank? Your inspector will check all of those things.Heating and Air ConditioningThese are a couple more costly items to replace. Your air conditioning unit not only needs to work properly, but should also be the proper size to efficiently cool your home, while saving energy. Speaking of saving energy, the inspector will check the efficiency of your other appliances as well, to make sure they are working as they should.ElectricalProper installation of outlets, including GFI safety outlets in kitchen and bathrooms, is important to your family's safety. Many times, "weekend handymen" do repair work and create safety hazards that they aren't aware of.Why wait to discover repairs during the middle of a contract? If you are aware of problems on the front end of the deal, you can often include them as a stipulation along with your offer.As a Realtor, I always advise against foregoing a home inspection when looking to purchase a Southwest Florida / Cape Coral home. Do your due diligence. You'll be happy you did. For more information or to ask questions about home inspection in Lee County Florida, please contact us. We will be happy to assist you in any way that we can with your Cape Coral home purchase.


Being green in Cape Coral Real Estate 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:35:57 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/its-easy-being-green-in-southwest-florida.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/its-easy-being-green-in-southwest-florida.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>It's Easy Being Green in Southwest Florida</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


If you're concerned about energy conservation, recycling, pollution, and desire to live in a community that shares your concerns about the environment, you've come to the right place by choosing a home in Cape Coral. 


Here's some facts about Southwest Florida's roll in developing a greener tomorrow:


An Eco-Friendly Landscape


Florida Friendly Yards believes that environmental protection begins in your own backyard (literally) and will teach you the smart way to grow with Florida friendly landscaping techniques. Their website features a Florida-friendly plant database, which will teach you about plants that are native to the area which require very little irrigation, fertilizer or maintenance. By including these plants in your landscape you'll be conserving water as well as keeping the earth free from toxic fertilizers. 


Non-toxic, Biodegradable Products


Organic farming, pet products, and even cleaning your home has been made easy, with the help of Our Garden Patch, a local North Fort Myers business dedicated to providing non-toxic, biodegradable products that reaches every area of your life. From industrial cleaners to fertilizers, this company is helping to make Lee County a safe, eco-friendly place to live.  


Water Conservation


Cape Coral is a leader in wastewater recycling. The City of Cape Coral has become the benchmark for wastewater recycling. As of 2009, 100% of the city's wastewater has been treated, recycled and reused in a safe and efficient manner. The city has come close to this impressive percentage in the past, but 2009 is the first year that absolutely 100% of its water has been recycled.   


 Five years ago, Cape Coral launched a half-billion dollar water and sewage treatment plant expansion which protects nearby waterways and assures the city has a reliable source of water throughout the year. The city has been commended by the State of Florida's Department of Environmental Protection as a model for other communities.


 Energy Conservation


A solar powered Florida? Florida Power and Light has had these plans in the works for several years, but made a formal announcement in June of 2008. Three power plants, in South and Central Florida will represent the first commercial scale renewable energy to be installed in the state. These huge steps toward solar technology recently received the seal of approval from President Obama, when he visited Arcadia to commend John Gnecco, director of project development for Florida Power and Light. The steps made toward energy conservation are those that the entire nation intends to follow. 


Southwest Florida is not only a beautiful place to put down roots and invest in real estate, it is also the nation's leader in protecting the environment for generations to come. Invest in Lee County Florida--a smart choice. 


Cape Coral Real Estate  setting the pace 



 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 06:47:21 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/fort-myers-real-estate-update-setting-the-pace-for-florida.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/fort-myers-real-estate-update-setting-the-pace-for-florida.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Fort Myers Real Estate Update: Setting the Pace for Florida</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
“There is only one Fort Myers, and 90 million people are going to find out,” said its most famous former resident, Thomas Edison.


Located 15 miles inland from the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel Island, the city of Fort Myers is one of the few locations that has not yet become a tourist trap or a prime location for second-home investors. Quietly kept under the radar, this winter home of best friends, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, is likely to become a hot real estate area in the near future.


Anyone who has visited the Fort Myers area regards it as one of Florida's 'best kept secrets.' While other vacationers were busily crowding the beaches of Daytona and the Tampa Bay, Lee County has remained a safe, relaxing haven for the elite. The beaches of Sanibel and Captiva Islands have long been touted as the best shelling destinations in the world and have been a favored vacation spot for a long list of worldwide celebrities. Recently, Coastal Living magazine named Sanibel Island “the best United States shelling spot, and one of the best vacation destinations in the world.”


Part of the charm of Fort Myers, certainly involves the home town atmosphere mixed with the perfect blend of economic growth and technology. The streets of the McGregor Blvd area are lined with well kept yards, white picket fences, and welcoming neighbors. Banyan trees, hibiscus, rows of palm trees and beautiful oaks provide the same charm that first drew Thomas Edison to study the thousands of plants and wildlife of the area.


On the home buying front, the value of real estate located in the Edison home/McGregor Blvd area have remained strong, yet have dropped just enough to encourage young professional families to start scooping up properties, as they have decided to relocate to one of America's prime cities to raise a family. 


Nearby Cape Coral has experienced phenomenal growth over the past decade, and now is the perfect time to take advantage of the low cost of real estate. The Cape has been ranked as one of the fastest growing markets in the United States and has also been rated as one of the top places to live and to start a business, according to Money Magazine.


Geographically, Cape Coral is the 2nd largest city in the state of Florida, and is known as the city of canals, with over 400 miles of salt and freshwater canals winding through the city. Median home prices (even for waterfront homes) was just under $100,000, which makes the area an affordable choice for most families.


Just a few years ago, the area was highly construction and new home driven. Recent changes in the economy have put a stop to the surge of new home construction, but has conveniently left the area with a surplus of recently built homes.  


And the drop in home prices have allowed many individuals to buy a home who could never afford one before. If you are looking for the perfect place to relocate or invest, Lee County Florida should definitely be at the top of your list. Call the Sporleder-Ray Group today. We will help you find the perfect home to fit your lifestyle and your budget. 


Reasons to invest in Cape Coral Real Estate 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:57:45 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/home-buyer-credit-has-been-extended-through-the-first-half-of-2010.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/home-buyer-credit-has-been-extended-through-the-first-half-of-2010.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Home Buyer Credit has Been Extended through the First Half of 2010</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


According to recent reports from The
Wall Street Journal, Congress has approved an extension to the $8,000 tax
credit given to first-time home buyers. The extension, which originally caused
Americans to race toward a closing date of November 30, now gives Cape Coral home buyers
until June 30 of 2010 to close. Contracts must be entered into by April 30th,
so keep that date in mind when searching for a home during this holiday season.  


Additional perks to the bill includes the creation of a new $6,500
credit for existing property owners who sell their existing home and purchase
another during the same period of time. Both of these credits do include
certain income restrictions which put limits on their availability. 


Let's take a look at each credit separately to gain a full
understanding:


The $8,000 First-Time
Home Buyer Tax Credit


Eligible purchasers are limited to first-time home buyers
only. A first-time home buyer is defined by the IRS as an individual or couple
who has not owned a principal residence during the 3 year period prior to the
current purchase. 


The tax credit does not have to be repaid. 


The home-buyer credit is a maximum of $8,000. The credit is
equal to 10 percent of the home's purchase price. If you purchased your home
for $80,000 or above, you are eligible for the maximum credit. 


The tax credit only applies to homes purchased for $800,000
or less. 


Income limits: For homes purchased before November 6, 2009,
the income limits are $75,000 for those filing single and a combined income of
$150,000 for couples filing jointly. 


Income limits for the extension: For homes purchased during
the extension period, which runs from November 7, 2009 until April 30, 2010, single
taxpayer's income allowance has been increased to $125,000, and couples filing
jointly can now earn up to $225,000.


The $6,500 Tax Credit
for Repeat Home Buyers


Eligibility for the new $6,500 credit include the following
stipulations:


Home buyers must have owned and lived in their previous home
for five consecutive years. 


This tax credit is also equal to 10 percent of the home's
purchase price, with $6,500 being the maximum amount. If you purchase your home
for more than $65,000, you will qualify for the maximum amount.  The home purchased must be $800,000 or less. 


This new credit includes homes purchased between November 7,
2009 and April 30, 2010. 


Income limits: Single tax payers are allowed an income of up
to $125,000 and married couples must have a combined income of $225,000 or less
to qualify. 


Continue to stay informed of future home buyer information
by bookmarking our website. For a list of available Lee County properties,
check our up-to-date MLS listings or feel free to give us a call at 239-410-5821 (Mary) or  239-691-0157 (David). You can also fill out the form on our home page to let us know how we can help with your real estate needs. We will promptly respond. 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 07 Nov 2009 07:01:44 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/top-5-reasons-to-invest-in-lee-county-real-estate.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/top-5-reasons-to-invest-in-lee-county-real-estate.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Top 5 Reasons to Invest in Lee County Real Estate</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


 
The prices of Lee County and Cape Coral homes have never been better, but that's not the only reason to invest in Lee County, Florida real estate. As most individuals realize, in order to purchase a home that will prove to be a valuable investment, there are a number of things to take into consideration.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The ideal home purchase will have the perfect combination of beauty, low crime, a family friendly environment, the right price, and a strong projection for economic growth. The place that enjoys all of these qualities is none other than our own Lee County, Florida.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
1. Economic Growth  
According to CNN Money Magazine's 2009 list of Top Places to Live in the United States, Lee County Florida ranks as one of the top 25 counties experiencing steady and strong economic growth. 

Lee County has been hard at work bringing new corporations to the area with its affordable commercial property prices and tax incentives. Three major companies have recently made plans to expand, including Gartner Inc, NeoGenomics, and Paramount Transportation.&nbsp; The fact that companies are investing in Lee County shows that the job market is likely to enjoy a steady increase. 
2. Safe and Sound 
According to statistics provided by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in September of 2009, the city of Cape Coral is the fifth safest city in the state of Florida, and it just keeps getting better.This is definitely a source of pride for those who own homes in Cape Coral.&nbsp; 

Law enforcement reports for the first half of 2009 show an eleven percent decrease in overall crime. When considering a home purchase, crime rates play a huge factor. Lee County prides itself on being a safe place for all ages. 
3. Family Friendly 
Lee County has so much more to offer than swaying palm trees and white sandy beaches. There are numerous activities that make relocating to Southwest Florida a smart decision for your family. In fact, don't take my word for it. Here is a brief rundown of Lee County's prestigious awards:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Florida Monthly Magazine voted Caloosa Nature Center and Planetarium as Florida's best nature center. Lee County has also been noted as the best place to watch birds, and Sanibel Island won best shelling location for the fifth year in a row.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The Southeast Tourism Society has named the Fort Myers Beach Sandsculpting&nbsp; festival as one of its top 20 Events, while the Edison Festival of Light has been added to the elite list of the Top One Hundred Events in North America.

Besides all of the awards, don't forget Sun Splash, The Imaginarium, our numerous shopping centers, including Coconut Pointe and the Belle Tower Shoppes, not to mention nonstop canoeing, fishing, and other water sports available to tourists and residents alike. 
4. It's a Slice of Paradise 
With a year-round average temperature of 75 degrees, lush tropical landscape, beautiful scenery, fruit trees and endless waterways, Lee County is rivaled by very few locations in the area of beauty. It truly is a little slice of paradise. 
5. Home Prices Have Never Been Better 
According to the Florida Association of Realtors, the median price of a single family home in Lee County was just over $89,000 in September. &nbsp;This is a 37% decrease from just last year. Meanwhile, home sales are climbing and are expected to continue. If there was ever an ideal time to invest in Lee County real estate; this is it.

We here at the Sporleder-Ray love all that Southwest Florida has to offer. As longtime residents, we enjoy a slice of paradise every single day. If you are thinking of locating to Southwest Florida, please visit our Buyers section for valuable information and tools. You can begin searching Cape Coral MLS listings right away. Let us help you make one of the best decisions of your life. 

Cape Coral Real Estate 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:50:58 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-homes-for-sale.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-homes-for-sale.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Cape Coral Homes for Sale</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Cape Coral Homes for Sale. Paradise is Affordable


Perhaps you battle the winters on the cold, windy streets up north and are looking for a second home that lets you escape from the cold and snowy conditions.  If you have been dreaming of owning a home in Florida, there is no better time than now to look into the opportuntities that exist in the homes for sale in Cape Coral and surrounding communities.


Even if you've been living in a cave, you know that the economic conditions of the real estate industry have been nothing short of devastating. For the Cape Coral area, it has been some of the most difficult conditions for some homeowners, who have found it impossible to avoid foreclosure.  Although this may sound tragic, it is a buyers market for anyone who is looking at homes for sale in the Cape Coral area.


Whether you're looking for a get-away from the blizzard conditions that plague the northern states every winter or you want to make an investment in real estate on the southern coast of Florida to expand your investment portfolio, looking at Cape Coral Homes for Sale is the way to go.  Never before has there been an economic scenario quite as advantageous as the one that currently exists in this area.


Tropical winds, sandy beaches and some of the best southern Florida coastal weather is a part of the Cape Coral home scenario that owners enjoy all year around.  Fishing, boating and close proximity to Miami, Tampa, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale make Cape Coral the perfect location to buy homes for sale at price's that are sure to make your budget quite happy. Waterfront homes prices are some of the best ever.


The economic conditions are no reflection on the quality of homes for sale and the potential of Cape Coral, which was founded in 1960.  Families, entrepreneurs and other business capitalists alike are taking a close look at this city that ranks third safest in Florida, is easy to get around and has a wealth of large growth potential.


Although Cape Coral has been leading the nation in foreclosed properties, there is a definite upside to being in a real estate downturn.  More homes for sale have recently been listed in Cape Coral property market, making it a buyers's choice mecca of optons designed to suit any budget, any taste and any interest in purchasing homes for sale in this location.


If you have even thought about living off the coast of Florida, whether part time or as a permanent move to this sunny state, there has never been as opportune a time as now to get in on the low prices being made available in the homes for sale in the Cape Coral area.  There's no better way to get your feet wet that to take a look at some of the listings currently on the market. From Cape Coral waterfront homes to inland gated golfing communities, Cape Coral has it all.  


The real estate market in Cape Coral has dealt some harsh blows to many who have been negatively impacted by the recession, yet, it's the perfect time to make your dreams come true with a strategic move to this corner of paradise, with the strategic purchase of a Cape Coral home.


Buying homes in Cape Coral Real Estate 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sat, 31 Oct 2009 22:52:48 -0500</pubDate>
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