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        <title>Cape Coral Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/international-buyers/</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-properties-most-sought-after-by-international-buyers.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-properties-most-sought-after-by-international-buyers.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Cape Coral Properties Most Sought After by International Buyers</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
 


Cape Coral Properties
Most Sought After by International Buyers


According to
the latest Trulia.com statistics, Florida remains the hottest spot for savvy
international investors, and Cape Coral properties come in as the number one
choice for buyers. 


Who's Buying Cape Coral? 


According to
the Lee County Visitor Bureau, there are a large number of repeat visitors
coming to Lee County from Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria and
Switzerland. All together, close to 500,000 international visitors arrived here
last year, and this year is expected to be no different. International visitors
aren't just here for a family vacation either. Here are the statistics on who's
buying Cape Coral:


According to
the Florida Association of Realtors early 2011 survey:




51%
of foreign buyers purchased single family homes


37%
invested in condos


Over
80% of foreign investors paid cash for their Cape Coral property 




Why Are International Investors
Buying Cape Coral Properties?


Florida, and
especially Cape Coral, is a point of interest with investors. What makes our
area so sought after with international buyers? The drop in property prices is
certainly one shining factor that makes Cape Coral so attractive, but when
speaking directly to investors, they see the Cape Coral housing market as a way
to purchase security for the future. 


Cape Coral,
with over 400 miles of navigable waterways, a community and family environment,
and no real impoverished neighborhoods, is the perfect place for investors of
all types. For those coming to live permanently with their families or retire,
Cape Coral offers safe neighborhoods, top schools, and plenty of community
activities. Those interested in starting a business will benefit greatly by
relocating to the area. Florida ranks as one of the top 5 business friendly
states in the nation and number 1 among southern states. 


Foreign
investors see these statistics, along with the fact that foreclosure rates have
diminished and home sales are on the rise. When this happens, an increase in
home values will follow, which means that our Cape Coral housing market is set
to change from a buyer's market to a sellers. When will this happen? Economists
predictions are seeing this taking place anywhere between 12 - 24 months. 


Bottom line
here? It just makes good sense to purchase Cape Coral property. When you
consider housing prices, our tropical climate, the availability of waterfront
and luxury homes, and our business friendly environment, you've got the perfect
combination. It doesn't get any better than Cape Coral, Florida. 


Whether you
are a visitor to the area looking for an investment property or a seller who'd
like to make your home available to international buyers, give us a call today.
We are experienced and knowledgeable when it comes to international sales.
There's no better time than now. 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 19 Jun 2011 09:14:51 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/now-is-the-time-to-buy-cape-coral-waterfront-property.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/now-is-the-time-to-buy-cape-coral-waterfront-property.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Now is the Time to Buy Cape Coral Waterfront Property</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 

 

There's good news on the horizon for Lee County's housing market. Foreclosure numbers are currently the lowest in three years. With just over 800 foreclosures for the month of May, this is a sign of things to come. Property values have continued to hold at rock bottom prices, but they won't stay that way for long. If you've been waiting for the ideal time to buy, don't wait any longer. Cape Coral waterfront homes can still be scooped up for under $200,000 but with less foreclosures flooding the market, it is a sign of the stabilizing economic climate. Clearly, things are getting better. Southwest Florida's real estate experts predict the positive trend to continue. Foreclosure numbers are dropping and housing prices are beginning to climb. Last month, the median price was up 7 percent from last year. Sales were also up, almost 10 percent, due to the excellent pricing that have hung on through the first half of 2010. The number of distressed homes are fewer, that's for certain, but there are still excellent deals to be found. It's not unusual to find a three bedroom, two bath pool home in Cape Coral that is at or just above $120,000.What does that mean for the property investor? Pretty simple. It means, "Buy Now." With the way things are cycling, investors will not have to hold onto their properties for very long before they have equity in their property. And that's very good news. If you buy now, you'll be able to rent out your property for quite a nice profit, or hang onto it for a vacation or second home. Cape Coral waterfront property owners enjoy the very best of paradise. Pool homes, waterfront property with private docks for your watercraft, beautiful golf courses, marinas, shopping, breathtaking sunsets, neighborhood events, community parks, and nearby restaurants. Cape Coral has it all, and right now it's all within reach financially. Realistically, there hasn't been a better time to buy Lee County Florida real estate. For those thinking about retiring to the sunshine state, this is an opportunity that you won't want to miss. Whether it's a Cape Coral waterfront property you are looking for, a pool home, or a luxury golf course property, give us a call at Sporleder Realty and we will walk you through your purchase. We have been selling Cape Coral for years and have all of the neighborhood and canal information that you need. Now is the time to purchase your slice of paradise. This time next month, you could be relaxing on your dock watching the manatees play.  ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 12 Jul 2010 20:37:19 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-fort-myers-sanibel-captiva-protected-from-the-bp-oil-spill.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-fort-myers-sanibel-captiva-protected-from-the-bp-oil-spill.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Sanibel &amp; Captiva Protected from the BP Oil Spill</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 


 


Investors, home owners, tourists, and anyone
considering purchasing property during this excellent market can rest easy. Recent
projections by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) verify
the statements of Kristie Anders, a local expert, that there is a minimal
likelihood of oil from the BP oil spill that will impact the waters and beaches
of Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Pine Island, and Sanibel in Southwest Florida.



Less Than 1% Chance that Lee County Property Will Be
Affected



In a recently released technical report,
NOAA stated that the likelihood of oil affecting the area in any way is less
than one percent. At this point, the oil has already degraded to scattered tar
balls instead of a large surface oil slick and has lost much of its destructive
power. 



The NOAA report took all things into
consideration, including data involving historical ocean and wind currents,
along with other natural factors. Furthermore, the loop current in the Gulf
follows the edge of the West Florida Continental Shelf about 150 miles
offshore. This loop current serves as a guard against any impact from the BP
spill.



These are not just educated
speculations or predictions. The NOAA's projections are based on a model which
compiled information obtained from 500 possible different scenarios, including
hurricane, severe storms, and other natural occurances. Details of NOAA's
findings can be found on their website.
Even with all of these scenarios, probability is less than one percent.



Cape Coral Waterfront Property



So, you've followed all the updates and
you've got the BP oil spill information. If you live in the Cape Coral area,
you can rest assured that your slice of paradise is well protected. For the
rest of the world, what does this information really mean? 



There's no time like now to invest in
Cape Coral waterfront property. Properties are hot, prices are lower than ever,
and our little slice of heaven has nowhere to go in value but up. 



This is traditionally the cycle when
investors make their money on property. It's time to buy low and enjoy your
investment. 



Just a few years ago, property values
skyrocketed to the 200-500 thousand dollar range for a median priced home.
Unless a buyer had a hefty down payment, mortgage payments averaged between
$1500-$2000 per month. There really wasn't any foreseeable way to make money
this way. If an investor was to use the property as a rental, the most an
average property could rent for was about $1200 per month. 



Now, with investment homes as low as
$60,000 asking price and mortgages averaging $500 per month after a 5% down
payment, cashing in on rental property alone is well worth the investment.
Average rental prices in the area are staying around $1,000 per month. That's a
nice monthly profit margin for a rental investment. 



Give our offices a call, or check out
our property search feature on our home page. We will be happy to answer any
questions you have. There is no time like now to invest. 


 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:49:41 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/foreign-investors-are-buying-the-american-dream-in-sw-florida.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/foreign-investors-are-buying-the-american-dream-in-sw-florida.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Foreign Investors are Buying the American Dream in SW Florida</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 







The credit crunch has taken its toll on many
families across America, preventing certain individuals from investing in
Florida property during a time when prices have reached an all time low.  But what about foreign investors, especially
those coming from the U.K? The British pound has remained very strong against the
dollar - with one pound currently worth $1.65. So, what does this mean as far
as foreign investment prospects go? 


According to the Association of Foreign
Investors in Real Estate, over 50% agree that the United States provides the
best opportunity for capital appreciation. This figure has risen steadily from
26% in 2007 and 37% in 2008. The majority of foreign investors in real estate
have plans to boost their United States investments in 2010. 


In areas that were hard hit, such as
Southwest Florida - Cape Coral waterfront property, has dropped to the most
appealing prices of the past decade. The current problems will be extremely beneficial
for those who invest now. Markets such as the Lee County area have experienced
an increase of new and seasoned real estate investors, and these numbers are
expected to increase.  Right now, there
is a sizeable oversupply of properties and excellent deals to be had. As a foreign
investor, you can definitely walk away with a lot of investment property for your
pound. 


Tips for the foreign investor to consider
when investing in Florida Real Estate include the following:


Weigh
the potential rewards against the risks.



One of the most appealing qualities for Florida
investors is its unique rental market, which pulls in visitors all year long.
Florida enjoys over 300 days of sunshine with an average temperature of 70+
degrees. Over 75 million people visit the Sunshine State each year. These are
important figures to look at if you plan on producing an immediate positive
cash flow by using your investment as a vacation rental. 


Cape Coral waterfront property, especially
homes located on saltwater canals with easy boating access to the Gulf of
Mexico have the potential to bring in nice returns when rented out seasonally
to fishing enthusiasts, boaters, and retirees who like to spend their winters
in Florida's tropical climate. 


Count on having a
sizable down payment. Financing is not as
loose as it once was. Twenty percent is the least deposit you should count on
in order to secure financing. With prices so low, a full cash purchase should
also be considered. 

Location - Florida waterfront property will recover quickly.
Projections show a turn-around by the fourth quarter of 2010. Right now is an
ideal time to target prime property in Cape Coral, where there are over 400
miles of beautiful canals and excellent economic projections. 

To learn more about investing in the Cape Coral real estate market, please contact
DavidSproleder.com 

  ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Sun, 24 Jan 2010 12:48:40 -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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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-homes-median-price-and-inventory.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/cape-coral-homes-median-price-and-inventory.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Cape Coral Homes Median Price and Inventory</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[   ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:17:18 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/buying-real-estate-in-swfl-a-guide-for-canadians.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/buying-real-estate-in-swfl-a-guide-for-canadians.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>Buying Real Estate in SWFL: A Guide for Canadians</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
As I mentioned in my post, &quot;The Canadian Invasion: Why Canucks are Flocking to Lee County,&quot; Canadians are accounting for a large number of real estate buyers in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and surrounding communities. Because of this, I wanted to provide a bit of information to Canadians and other international buyers who are looking for property in the Lee County area. Please note: the information below is just a general guide; for specific questions and buying advice, please contact me online or call (239) 410-5821. I'll be happy to help you assist you.

Q) How long can I stay in the U.S.?

A) Generally speaking, most Canadians can stay for up to six months in a year. Any longer than that, and you risk losing your provincial health coverage. Lengthier stays also make things a bit more complicated at tax time. 

Q) Is there any difference between getting a U.S. based mortgage and going through a Canadian company?

A) Yes, there are differences. Because you're not a U.S. citizen, lenders will require somewhere between 25 and 50% down payment on a property, and you'll also need enough liquid reserves in a U.S. bank account to cover closing costs, taxes, insurance, and 12 months' worth of principal and interest. The bank could also require you to have up to 6 months' worth of mortgage payments on hand as well. Another difference is that U.S. mortgages are often for 15 or 30-year terms. 

Canadians may opt to go through a Canadian lender for their mortgage, or they can go through RBC, which is the U.S. division of Toronto's Royal Bank Financial Group. RBC only requires a 25% down payment on a home. 

Q) Can I rent out my SWFL home while I'm back in Canada? 

A) Yes, you can. Renting out is a popular option for many international buyers. For one thing, renting out means that the house will be regularly maintained, and will be much more secure than if left vacant. You also have the added bonus of making income from your property when you're not using it. Note however, that if you rent out your SWFL home, you'll need to file a U.S. income tax return. 

Q) Do I have to pay property taxes on my Cape Coral home? 

A) Yes, you will have to pay property tax on your home in Florida, which is about 10% of the home's assessed value. 

Q) Where can I find out about other tax implications?

A) The Canada Revenue Agency has an informative guide for Canadians Going Down South. The IRS also has a slew of information for non-U.S. residents. 

Canadians need to know quite a bit before purchasing real estate in Southwest Florida. I'll be happy to guide you through not only the technical aspects of buying out-of-country, but I can also provide insight into which areas will garner a solid investment, and which properties will best suit your needs. 

Read about foreclosures in Cape Coral Real Estate 
 ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:29:10 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/the-canadian-invasion-why-canucks-are-flocking-to-lee-county.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.davidsporleder.com/blog/the-canadian-invasion-why-canucks-are-flocking-to-lee-county.html</link>
            <author>mray@davidsporleder.com (Mary Ray)</author>
            <title>The Canadian Invasion: Why Canucks are Flocking to Lee County</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ Southwest Florida has always been a hot spot among Canadian &quot;snowbirds,' looking for a warm locale to spend their winters. The beaches here are incredible, the people are friendly, and the lifestyle can't be beat. The National Association of REALTORS recently conducted a survey and discovered that Canadians represented a whopping 27% of all buyers in the state of Florida. This has been due in large part to favorable exchange rates, but as SWFL home prices continue to sit at record lows, the number of Canadians scooping up Lee County real estate is expected to rise even more. With properties in Fort Myers and Lehigh Acres selling for as low as $50,000, Canadian buyers know a deal when they see one. Many Americans have been unable to take advantage of rock bottom real estate prices in places like Lehigh Acres because of the economic downturn. Canadians on the other hand, are in a good position to buy right now, as their economy has taken much less of a hit than ours has. This influx of Canadian buyers has helped to offset the damage caused by the record number of foreclosure filings in Lee County, as well as infuse local communities with optimistic new faces who are happily fulfilling their dreams of owning SWFL real estate. To all our Canadian buyers, we say 'welcome home'!  ]]> </description>
            <pubDate>Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:28:17 -0500</pubDate>
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