Brett Slattery's Real Estate & News Blog

David Morris Column - Saving on Homeowners Insurance

2011-12-26T19:29:00.000-05:00

Homeowners insurance is a big cost to home ownership. Some insurance companies, frankly, gouge customers knowing many customers do not use all the resources available to them to find the best rates. Sun columnist David Morris addresses this in his column today. Learn how he saved a homeowner over $1,800 by telling her where to shop. Way to go, Dave! Click here to read Dave's column.

An Ode to Odie

2010-09-01T21:26:00.002-04:00

This is my wife, Deb, and her father Odie. Today the Englewood Sun ran a Tribute I wrote to Odie, focusing on the love and courage Odie demonstrated during his final days. Click here to read.

A Newspaper by the people and for the People - Mike Billington column.

2010-08-07T14:10:00.002-04:00

Mike Billington is the Editor and a columnist for The Englewood Sun. He wrote a great column today that explains why the Sun Newspapers are recognized as the country's top community newspapers. This is quite a feat given that many major newspapers have folded in recent years while The Sun newspapers have increased circulation. Mike is a seasoned reporter who has covered everything from wars zones to dinners with top leaders around the world. Mike summed up in a few words why The Sun remains strong. "It's a newspaper by the people and for the people". I can certainly testify to that. The Sun regularly publishes my photos and columns, giving me an incredible venue to share my creative and analytical works with the community. As Mike points out, The Sun's open door, which encourages readers like myself to share in creating the content, leaves no doubt that The Sun is "our" newspaper. To get an insight into the attitude that causes a newspaper to grow while most shrink, click here.

Money for nothing? This program has it all.

2010-08-06T20:09:00.006-04:00

There is a little known program that can save homebuyers about $31,000. It is sponsored by participating Florida counties, include Charlotte County. Particpating banks such as Bank of America have agreed to waive most closing costs. The program provides an interest free, 30 year fixed loan. You do not have to pay it back for 30 years unless you sell home or convert it to a non-primary residence. No payments and no interest for 30 years. Wow. This amazing program is the subject of my business column, published yesterday in all editions of The Sun newspapers. Click Here.

One on One with the Legends of Rock and Roll

2010-06-23T16:34:00.002-04:00

Today, the Sun newspapers published a story about my adventures and one on one experiences with the greatest rock and roll legends of my day. It was a dream come true, getting to meet my recording heroes. This included everything from an on stage appearance with Neil Diamond to walking the streets of Downtown San Diego unnoticed with The Righteous Brothers. Click here.

How to Identify a Coral Snake

2010-06-23T13:42:00.000-04:00

The Sun newspapers ran a photo of a coral snake, and correctly stated they are poisonous. Unfortunately, they ran the wrong photo. In the following weeks, they ran numerous letters-to-the-editor in which readers corrected them. Many readers suggested rhymes meant to identify coral snakes by the alignment of their colors. Rhymes like "red on black, okay Jack", "yellow on red, you a dead fellow", etc.

They were difficult to remember. So I sent my own letter to the editor that included a story I made up to remember coral snakes have red colors touching yellow colors. Here's the story (letter to the editor).

How do delinquincies affect credit scores?

2010-04-24T19:55:00.003-04:00

Click Here for the answer. Click your browser's "BACK" button to return here.

Spring time and backyard battlefields as birds protect their nests.

2010-04-23T13:22:00.002-04:00

With so much wildlife in Rotonda West, it's not surprising to see birds doing battle as they protect their nests. The Sun Newspapers ran a story on this subject this morning. Click here to read the story. As a sidelight, the Sun newspapers publish about 200-300 of my wildlife photos a year. Wildlife photography is my hobby. I've had customers ask me, upon seeing the photos in newspapers and magazines if I abandoned the real estate business for photograhy. The fact is most of my photos, like the ones published with this story, have been taken in own backyard. As you notice, the newspapers are kind enough to identify me as "Realtor Brett Slattery" so that the public knows I am still fully engaged as a Realtor. In fact, last year my production was over $2,000,000. This year I completed the education and state finals to become a broker and open my own brokerage - Brett Slattery Realty.

Will fences around Rotonda West impede the flow of Wildlife?

2010-04-23T12:56:00.000-04:00

Will fences around Rotonda West impede the flow of Wildlife? No, according to this morning's Sun Newspaper article by Dana Sanchez.
That's good news for those of us who love the fascinating parade of everyday wildlife shows here in Rotonda West. Click here for the story. For more wildlife photos, most of which I took from my own backyard, go to: http://www.brettslattery.com/photos_weekly.htm .

New lead based paint rules

2010-04-18T18:59:00.000-04:00

If you are a contractor working on a home built before 1978, you are subject to rules that require you to be certified if you will be removing more than 20 square feet of lead based paint. The penalties are steep, and extend to homeowners who hire non-certified contractors and painters. Click here to read more.

Short Sales - Herald Tribune Expose

2010-04-18T18:48:00.001-04:00

Short sales are the most challenging aspect of today's market. The Herald-Tribune ran a very informative story this morning explaining why some banks drag out short sales or even undermine short sales when they themselves approved the short sale. Click here to read the story.

Just Before the Bubble Burst

2010-02-12T16:14:00.000-05:00

It's been nearly 5 years since the real estate bubble burst in this region of Southwest Florida. If it were to happen again, would you know precisely the right time to sell? In other words, was there some magic number, some leading indicator, that tipped us off that the bubble was about to burst in the immediate future? Such a leading indicator could be a valuable tool for those investors and property owners striving to "time the market". And if there was such an indicator that successfully predicted the bubble's pop, wouldn't it have the same potential for identifying the bottom of the cycle, as well as the top? I recently researched this and discovered that yes indeed, this leading indicator does exist. Just before the bubble burst in October 2005, this indicator was shouting "sell" to anyone listening. Unfortunately, few if any were watching this magic number as our collective attention remained fixated on the median sales prices. The Sun Newspapers published the results of my research in todays papers. Click here to read the story.

Need a Last Minute Halloween Costume - for $5 - Ask Deb

2008-10-30T22:02:00.006-04:00

My wife, Deb, and I accepted an invitation to a Halloween Costume Contest/Party. Deb created costumes for both of us for less than $5 each. And, her design won us a "best couples" trophy and a standing ovation from all the guests who voted for us. I know a lot of us less artistic folks haven't a clue how artistic people like her do this. So I asked her to write a column on this, which I passed on The Sun this morning . Here's what Deb wrote.

Need a last minute Halloween costume?

Once again, my husband and I were invited to the yearly “Halloween party” that we look forward to each year. There will be children running in the streets laughing from house to house, trucks pulling hay-lined trailers filled with ghouls and goblins jumping out every 25 yards to yell out “trick or treat” and candy filling up bags and pumpkins.

My husband Brett and I spent a lot of time trying to come up with our costumes this year. We like to be unique and due to the economical times, we did not want to spend a lot of money on something to wear for a one night party. I came up with the perfect idea.

Mimes! White and black face makeup, red and black lipstick, black hats, white gloves and red scarves along with white and black clothing would be all we needed.

I found two perfect black hats to fit the costume. We both had black shirts and pants.

One quick trip to Wal-Mart a few hours before the party and we had everything we needed. Now here is the exciting news. Both of our costumes cost fewer than ten dollars!

Tube of white face paint - $1.00
Tube of black face paint - $1.00
Black lipstick - $2.00
Red lipstick - $.97
Women’s white gloves - $1.40
Men’s white gloves - $.99
Two large red bandana’s - $1.88

Total: $9.24

Everyone at the party loved our costumes. Every year the host and hostess give awards for the funniest, scariest, sexiest, best female, best male, best couple, etc. For the first time we won trophies. The best couple award went to us hands down with the crowd applauding loudly.

It’s not too late for your Halloween costume. Whether you use this idea or come up with your own creation for under ten dollars, you just may have the best costume on the block.

“Happy Halloween”
Deborah Slattery is the office manager at Forster, Davis, Roberts & Boeller in Englewood.

How Overpriced is the Average Home

2008-09-26T21:25:00.004-04:00

Two years ago the Sun published the results of a study I did demonstrating that the average home then was overpriced by 22%. Using sophisticaled new tools in our new MLS system, I ran the same study again, but used different methodology. Using a paradigm shift that may Realtors are making towards pricing homes in terms of square footage, I fount that homes are currently overpriced by 22%, exactly the same figure I arrived at two years ago. This demonstrates that most sellers are "chasing the market down". It was also interesting to note that the longer a home stays on the market, the more likely it is that the home is overpriced. I reported these findings in my morning column, published in the Suncoast Media Newspapers. Click here to read the column.

Foreign Flavor - Canadians and Brits continue to discover Florida.

2008-06-20T15:11:00.004-04:00

The sun newspapers ran a story today on the influx of foreign nationals taking advantage of bargains in our local real estate market. The reporter pointed out something that is often overlooked regarding our community. It's one of few places where you can enjoy the Florida lifestyle in a small town setting. A primary reason I moved to Florida in 1994 was to escape the rat-race and big city gridlock. Finding Charlotte County has been a highlight of my life because it gave my family and I the lifestyle we did not think existed anymore. Click here to read Sun Newspapers lead story. Pictured on the left is a visitor to my backyard yesterday evening.

Hurricane Proof Your PC

2008-06-07T18:12:00.002-04:00

It's hurricane season. Hurricane Charly blew away and destroyed thousands of PC's on 08/14/2004. Many businesses were virtually destroyed because they had no secure backup of their computer systems. New technology and plunging prices for on-line backup services and portable hard drives mean that you can quickly create a DNA map of your PC. You can tuck this map away and use it to re-create an exact clone of your PC, complete with all your programs and data exactly as they were, in just a few minutes on any other PC. I explain the importance and ease of creating this map in today's business column published in the Sun newspapers. Click Here to read the column.

The Truth About Smokers

2008-06-07T17:57:00.002-04:00

Smokers know they are generally banished from public places. I'm a non-smoker married to a smoker. I 've accompanied my wife into airport smoker lounges a few times and was quite surprised at some good very positive qualities these outcasts share. I chronicled them in a article that has been published in the Sun newspapers this weekend. Think smokers are bad people? Click here to read my column titled "The Truth About Smokers".

The Rise and Fall of Charlotte County's Real Estate Bubble

2008-05-14T10:21:00.004-04:00

I recently completed a study of 200,000 sales transactions in Charlotte County over the past 25 years to better understand the real estate bubble that we recently experienced. The Sun newspapers devoted a full page to publishing the results in today's editions. I initiated the study to develop software that would accurately identify the emergence of the next bubble in it's early stages. In the process, I discovered that there are tools used on Wall Street that would have done exactly this had we applied them to real estate data. I also discuss lessons we can learn from the bubble to better profit from the aftermath of this bubble, and future bubbles. Click here to read the analysis in today's Sun newspapers.

Housing prices in line with income.

2008-05-05T09:29:00.002-04:00

David Dunn-Rankin published a very insightful article 04/27/08. It focuses on the fact that, nationally, the median home price has historically been 3 times the median income. Our area has now reached that level, indicating that the air is out of the bubble. Click here to read David's article. This week, I will be publishing the results of a comprehensive study I have completed to ascertain what lessons we can learn from the recent bubble.

The Bright Side of a Down Real Esate Market

2008-04-26T14:49:00.002-04:00

When the real estate market was surging, many buyers complained they were now priced out of the market. That has certainly changed, as those families with median incomes are once again able to realize the dream of home ownership. Click here to read more.

Owls Flying the Nighttime Skies over Rotonda West

2008-03-28T20:44:00.001-04:00

I snapped this picture of a great horned owl perched on my neighbor's Oakland Hills Home tonight. These beautiful birds are frequent nighttime visitors to Rotonda West. I've enjoyed watching them two at a time in my backyard. Where else? Click the picture for full size, hi-res.

Is the Media Fueling the Real Estate Downturn?

2008-03-13T19:09:00.004-04:00

The media has taken a lot of heat for fueling the real estate turndown. However, the media owes it to it's readership to report the facts, good and bad, so we can make intelligent decisions. I discussed this issue this morning in my morning business column. Click here to read the column.

Jumbo Rates Falling

2008-02-22T11:27:00.002-05:00

Jumbo loans are loans exceeding $417,000. While 30 year fixed rates on non-jumbo loans have hovered around 6% for the past year, jumbo rates hit double digits following the sub-prime meltdown. This makes it difficult to finance a home requiring a mortgage over $417,000. Fortunately, the spread between jumbo and non-jumbo rates has falling to about 1%. This is a big improvement, as jumbo rates hover at 7% instead of 11% and higher. Click here for more info.

High Resolution Photo Galleries at BrettSlattery.com

2008-02-12T22:18:00.005-05:00

Hi All,

I have been taking lots of high resolution photos lately to showcase The Cape Haze Peninsula. In fact, I took the picture to your left Monday morning from my own back yard on the Cape Haze Peninsula. Speaking of wildlife, if you haven't been to my web site in the past few days, it would be worth your while. As you scroll down my home page, you'll see photo galleries that are frequently published within hours of the photo shoots. Please visit frequently, as my web site is sometimes updated daily. Click Here for BrettSlattery.com . You'll see high resolution copies of the eagle above, and other photos shot within the same few seconds.

Amendment 1 Passes - Limited Time for 2007 Sellers to Recapture Gold Mine

2008-02-03T21:43:00.000-05:00

Portability of the Save our Homes beneift went into effect with the passage of Amendment 1 on 01/29/08. This can worth about up to an approximate maximum tax bill savings of $6,500. That's recurring tax savings that compounds every year!!! It's a gold mine. But in order to qualify, you need to know about it, and you need to file the proper paper work. I reported on this in today's analysis, published in the Sun newspapers. To read the story, click here. If you, or anyone you know, sold a homesteaded home in 2007, it is very important that they know about this huge benefit.

Amendment 1 Tax Reform Passes by 64%.

2008-01-30T19:49:00.000-05:00

In the first of many expected steps towards reducing property tax, Florida voters overwhelmingly voted for a bill yesterday that will reduce property taxes and give homesteaders "portability". That means they can transfer their accrued "save our homes" benefit from one home to another. I anticipate that this will have a dramatic effect on our real estate market as 24% of all Charlotte County homeowners will no longer lose their reduced assessments if they buy a replacement home in Florida. The bill also increases the homestead exemption, eliminates tangibles tax for most businesses, and provides a cap on assessment increases for businesses and mobile home owners. Most lawmakers, and locals, agree the next urgent step is to implement relief for all non-homesteaders, including snowbirds. To read the story, click here. Picture: Fellow Realtor Kelley-Ann Ayers and I preparing to hit the airwaves Saturday to discuss the property tax reform amendment that was passed by 64% of the voters the following Tuesday.

Stump Pass Marina

2008-01-29T17:23:00.001-05:00

Our area is a photographer's paradise. This Sunday, Deb and I took pictures of Stump Pass Marina, located at the end of Maryland St in Grove City. We took nearly 1600 photos using high speed Nikons. It was a typically, gorgeous winter day in Florida. There is a popular commercial with depicting Carribean like waters, a deserted beach, and aqua marine waters. We are very fortunately on the Cape Haze Peninsula to have the same rare amenities within minutes of our homes. I posted some pictures and will leave them up for a week or two. Click here to view. Click the picture above to enlarge.

Free Prescriptions Available at Publix

2008-01-29T17:15:00.001-05:00

Publix began offering free prescriptions for about a dozen popular anti-biotics this fall. According to Nick Pappas, pharmacy manager of Publix at Merchants Crossing, the company filled it's one millionth free prescription last week. While visiting the pharmacy, it occured to me the grocery store is a great spot for photographing vivid colors. Pictured at right: Nick Pappas and customer Deb Slattery (I know her). Click the photo to enlarge.

Charlotte home sales revive

2008-01-25T11:49:00.000-05:00

December 2007 Charlotte County home sales were up significantly from the previous 2 months, according to a report released yesterday by the Florida Association of Realtors. Although the median prices continued down, the increase in sales volume is encouraging because December has statistically been the slowest month of the year for the past 2 decades. The slump in prices presents a great opportunity not only for buyers, but especially for those who are "trading across", such as to up-size or down-size. Click here for the complete story. (Pictured: gorgeous golf-front/lake-front home).

Unraveling the Mysteries of Tax Reform

2008-01-22T09:49:00.000-05:00

On January 29th, Florida will vote on Amendment 1 for tax reform. This morning, the Sun Newspapers published my analysis of this tax reform amendment. I opposed the super exemption because I felt it was unfair to snowbirds. And, although Amendment 1 falls short of the relief due snowbirds, it will have positive benefits for all property owners by heating up Florida's economy. It is also the first amendment that offers snowbirds some relief, with the understanding property tax reform is a process rather than a one time event. My analysis is available on page one of the business sections in today's Englewood Sun, Charlotte Sun, North Port Sun, and Desoto Sun. Or, click here to read on-line, E-edition edition (turn off your pop-up blocker if it doesn't display within a few seconds).

Cool Stop Signs

2008-01-21T19:59:00.000-05:00

I was driving through North Port the other day when I noticed they are using solar powered stop and caution signs. LED lights, powered by solar cells, emit a very bright, flashing light making it nearly impossible for motorists to miss them. Click the picture to enlarge. Have you ever run a stop sign inadvertantly? The problem is you are unlikely to know when you run them. I think these clever signs are going to save some lives.

Nocturnal Virtual Tours

2008-01-21T11:59:00.000-05:00

I am a strong believer in creating high impact virtual tours for all my listings because I've seen the power they have in hooking buyers. Most buyers begin their searches on the internet and focus on those listings having virtual tours. The better the tour, the more time buyers spend looking at your home. I have placed properties under contract where the buyer's only exposure to the property has been a virtual tour with high resolution photos. Last Saturday, I created the first nocturnal, virtual tour. I noticed that a home I have listed is exceptionally warm and inviting at night. Here's the link. I was even able to snap a few photos of a bald eagle that landed just beyond the back yard lake.

What Makes Florida Special

2008-01-21T11:43:00.000-05:00

It's no coincidence that Florida is usually the warmest state in the Continental US. The northern edge of Florida is south of the latitude that marks California's southern border. In other words, we are closer to the equator. That is a priceless amenity that will always set Florida apart. This evening, as New York shivered in one degree weather, we enjoyed weather bordering 70 degrees. This will increase demand for the Florida lifestyle as the boomers continue to mature and heating costs continue to rise. This evening, we had gusty, off-shore winds at the beach, which create tubular waves ideal for surfing (I know these things, having grown up on the beaches of San Diego). Florida consistently ranks high for having the most beautiful beaches in the country. If you have any doubts, click here to see some high resolution photos of Englewood Beach I snapped yesterday.

Spectacular Day at Englewood Beach

2008-01-08T09:13:00.000-05:00

My wife and I gave ourselves matching Nikons for Christmas. We have made photography our joint hobby. Sunday evening, we went to Englewood Beach where we captured some spectacular shots of the wildlife and sunset. But even more captivating was a remote controlled, F-15 model jet thrilling the beachgoers with an exciting acrobatic show. I asked the pilot if I could take some pictures for the newspaper, when I discovered a very heart warming story which was published in today's Sun newspapers. To view pictures which demonstrate why Englewood Beach is such a local treasure, click here. To read the newspaper story published today explaining the story behind many of the pictures, click here.

Handy Tips and Numbers for Local Residents

2007-12-31T16:06:00.001-05:00

Dave Morris writes a consumer help column for the Sun newspapers, and published a collection of helpful information in today's newspapers. The only glitch- check with your cell phone carrier before calling 800-free-411. One carrier tacked on a charge of over a buck when I called it. To read Dave's column, Click Here.

Sun Newspapers Rate Real Estate Market Number 1 story in 2007.

2007-12-31T15:53:00.000-05:00

The real estate market has made daily headlines this year. The Suncoast Media group rated it the top story of 2008. I was pleased to see the story by business editor Bob Fliss demonstrated that there are silver linings in this market, and quoted my own recent experiences with some pleasant clients. Click here to read the story.

Borrowers rate satisfaction with lenders

2007-12-18T19:16:00.000-05:00

J.D. Power and Associates’ 2007 Primary Mortgage Origination Study rated customer satisfaction with the USA's top lenders. Here are the results. 1000 is a perfect score. Here's a summary of the study, and the results....
“While it’s true that borrowers with weaker credit and those seeking larger ‘jumbo’ loans experience longer approval times and requests for more documentation, satisfaction has remained steady among the 75 percent of mainstream borrowers with good credit applying for moderately sized loans,” says Tim Ryan, senior director of the mortgage practice at J.D. Power. The study concluded that consumers were more satisfied when they worked directly with the lender rather than through a broker. It also found that customers who demand clear communication from their lender are more likely to get it. And customers who supply required documentation upon application have a smoother loan process. The overall mortgage lender satisfaction ranking was based on a 1,000-point scale:
Wachovia, 827
SunTrust Mortgage, 818
Bank of America, 760
National City Mortgage, 759
CitiMortgage/Citibank, 753
Chase, 752Industry Average, 750Wells Fargo, 749
Countrywide Home Loans, 745
GMAC Mortgage, 744A
BN AMRO Mortgage, 740
American Home Mortgage Corp., 736
WaMu, 733
First Franklin, 595
Source: J.D. Power and Associates (12/12/2007)© Copyright 2007 INFORMATION, INC. Bethesda, MD (301) 215-4688

Marco Rubio Interview Available

2007-12-09T15:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, my friend and colleague Kelley-Ann Ayers, and I conducted a live interview with Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio on the subject of property tax reform. Marco Rubio has been a unifying force in bringing the Florida House of Representatives, citizens, and various grassroots organizations together for the purpose of drastically reducing, and ultimately eliminating, property taxes in Florida. The Speaker has lent his support to the Cut Property Taxes Now Coalition (click the link to sign a petition to cut property taxes). Mr Rubio was a great subject, as he was very direct in answering our questions. He told me his timetable for completely eliminating property taxes in Florida remains at 4 to 6 years. He also explained why the legislature is unable to resolve the problems, and why only a citizen's initiative will accomplish this. Kelley and I have accepted his invitation for our next interview next month. If you would like to help us dramatically reduce, and eliminate, property taxes for all property owners, including snowbirds, please be sure to click on the mentioned link to sign the petition (if you are a registered voter). To listen to the interview, click here.

Cut Property Taxes Now

2007-12-07T14:22:00.000-05:00

Tommorrow Kelley-Ann Ayers and I will interview Speaker of the House, Marco Rubio. Rubio is the catalyst likely to bring true property tax reform to Florida. Through the "Cut Property Taxes Now" coalition, Kelley, myself, Rubio, and over 100,000 other Floridians are making significant progress in reducing property taxes to ALL taxpayers, including snowbirds and business owners. This new proposal would keep the Save Our Homes benefit, and also protect snowbirds by limiting property taxes for EVERYONE to 1.35% of the properties value. This is a stepping stone toward the ultimate goal of abolishing property taxes which is another priority of Speaker Marco Rubio. If you are a registered voter and would like to sign the petition, or learn more, click here. To read the above announcement from Todays Suncoast Newspapers, click on the story above, or click here for a text version.

Marco Rubio, Kelley-Ann Ayers, and Brett Slattery Live 12/08/07

2007-12-04T23:32:00.000-05:00

Rep. Marco Rubio, Speaker of the House and leading advocate for property tax reform, will join Realtors Kelley-Ann Ayers and Brett Slattery for a live interview during Kelley’ s weekly “Sale Pending” show. The show airs at 1:00 pm, Saturday, 12/08/07, on WENG-1530 am. Rubio, Ayers, and Slattery will focus on a citizens’ initiative to abolish Florida property taxes. To listen globally live via streaming audo on 12/08/07 at 1:06 pm (US Eastern Time Zone), click on this WENG link at that time, then click on the Listen Now link.

Living the year round vacation.

2007-11-28T13:37:00.000-05:00

Those of us in the real estate profession are keen to visitors and second home owners who come to our area from around the world to enjoy our first class weather, beaches, fishing, boating, scenery, golfing and wildlife. After living here for 14 years, I still marvel at the amenities we could easily take for granted - amenities usually available only to those enjoying distant vacations. Here's an interesting feature story published in the Sun-Sentinel on the subject of vacationing in Charlotte County. It's titled "Escaping to Charlotte Harbor's white beaches". By the way, I did not take the picture on the left in the Carribean. I took it on a desserted beach on Manasota Key that is only about 25 minutes from my Rotonda West home. Click the picture to enlarge.

New golf course in Pine Valley Set to Open.

2007-11-27T21:53:00.000-05:00

Want to get in on the first rounds of golf on the beautiful new golf course in Pine Valley? According to a blurb on WENG-1530 am, the new course is set to open within days. For information, call 941-698-0918. Want to check out the view that homeowners are priviledged to enjoy of these beautiful new fairways? Click here for high resolution photos and videos. If you are interested in a home worthy of the affluent lifestyle for under $480,000, call me. By the way, the infinity pool you see on the left with the panoramic view is included with this sprawling home boasting 2 complete master suites overlooking the panoramic vistas.

Now find rentals at BrettSlattery.com

2007-11-16T20:45:00.000-05:00

About once a month, I hear "How do I find something to rent in Rotonda"? To simplify the answer, I've linked real-time, rental information directly to my web site at http://www.brettslattery.com/. That gives you a single-click, no log-on(!) gateway to real time rental information inclusive of all MLS rentals. I've also listed a few other rental villas I have visited and found to be quite attractive. To check it out, go to Brett Slattery.com, then click on Rentals. By the way, the picture on the left is what you see when you click on the new rental feature at BrettSlattery.com. Click here to go there now.

Rotonda West Hires New Manager

2007-11-15T09:18:00.000-05:00

The RWA has hired a new manager, Jay Lyons. Jay is a a Rotonda West resident, and is known locally as a respected real estate broker. Click here to read the story.

Pay property taxes now. Save 4%

2007-11-08T08:41:00.000-05:00

Charlotte County property owners can save 4% by paying their property taxes right away. Sun columnist Dave Morris talks about the ins and outs of this in his morning column. Click here to read it. Dave frequently offers great tips for locals, and does an outstanding job of going to bat for consumers. You can read his past columns by clicking here. (Pictured on right: Dave Morris, photo (c) Copyright 2007 Suncoast Media).

Area Home Depot Opens Today - Positioned for next boom.

2007-11-08T08:14:00.000-05:00

Earlier this year, Ace Hardware opened a new store next to Jams (near the post office) on Placida Rd. Today, a new Home Depot will open on SR776 very close to Duffy's Golf Course. This will be a major convenience to residents of Cape Haze, Rotonda West, and Englewood. On most days, the store will open at 6:00 am and remain open until 9:00 pm. Many national chains have been expanding into our area in recent years in anticipation of a population boom in our area. My Dad was a very successfull business pioneer. He built liquor stores in sleepy areas that were likely to experience high growth. He would grow the business over 2 or 3 years, then reap rich profits by selling them to buyers appreciated the very rapid appreciation in sales, fueled by unexpected population growth. His secret? Dad knew the national chains spent a fortune on demographic studies that predicted population growth. He watched them like a hawk, and built his liquor stores in close proximity to theirs. Home Depot, Office Depot, Target, Super Walmart, and Walgreens are among the national chains that are in the race to establish a strong prescence in our area. This is very positive for our area and the implications for long term appreciation in property values. For more info, and store hours, click here.

It's the season for beautiful weather in Rotonda West

2007-11-06T19:54:00.000-05:00

As snow starts falling up North and frost begins to blanket Europe, the weather in Cape Haze and Rotonda West is taking a turn towards absolute perfection. Highs are in the 80's with night lows dipping down to the high 60's (F). I've lived here 14 years, yet continue to marvel at the gorgeous weather and daily wildlife shows from my own backyard. Pictured on the right is the lanai where I read my newspapers over early morning coffee. The hawk (circled in red on the right picture) has been a regular morning visitor this week (click picture to enlarge). Rotonda West is interlaced with 32 miles of freshwater canals, which serves as a major wildlife attraction both on the ground and above. All of Rotonda West is an designated bird sanctuary, which attracts migrations from as far away as South America, Wisconsin, and New York. Click here to see a video I shot last February of tree swallows taking off at sunrise as they fly over my backyard.

New Tax Reform Amendment to be on Jan 29th ballot.

2007-10-30T22:31:00.000-04:00

The legislature yesterday agreed to place a new tax reform amendment on the 01/29/08 ballot. This is a milestone in that it is the first amendment that will offer some protection to snowbirds and other non-homesteaders. I'll be publishing a complete analysis next. Click here for details.

Could Rotonda West's canals supply drinking water?

2007-10-27T10:18:00.000-04:00

North Port has 84 miles canals compared to 32 miles in Rotonda West. An experiment is under way in North Port to study the feasibility of tapping the canals for drinking water. Many Rotonda West residents already draw irrigation water from the Rotonda canals, preserving county water. Could this same water be used to supplement our drinking water someday? Click here for story.

Rotonda manager fires back at Rotonda Board

2007-10-23T11:14:00.000-04:00

Julie Pittman and the Rotonda West Associtiation's board of directors recently departed ways under very unfavorable circumstances. In today's Englewood Sun, she explains why and offers a concerning view from the inside. To read the news report, click here.

Urgent to all US cell phone users

2007-10-19T19:24:00.000-04:00

All US cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies tomorrow and you will start to receive sale calls. YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS. To prevent this, call the following number from your cell phone: 888-382-1222. It is the National DO NOT CALL list. It will only take a minute of your time. It blocks your number for five (5) years. You must call from the cell phone number you want to have blocked. You cannot call from a different phone number. You can also register on the web at donotcall.gov .

Brett Slattery Unveils New WebSite

2007-10-17T18:13:00.000-04:00

If you haven't been to BrettSlattery.com this week, please check it out. I just rebuilt it from scratch. Using the new search feature, you can now view all active listings in any area or category with just one click. The Why Brett section includes some very out-of-the-box services I employ to market my listings. You will see how I use planes, tower trucks, professional photography, and symbiotic relationships with the media to market my clients' properties. The results speak for themselves. For example, I am the only Florida licensed real estate agent who has sold a home in Palm Point since 2005. Just southeast of Palm Point sits the prestigious community of Windard Cape Haze. In that community, I have participated in over 25% of all 2007 home sales as either the listing agent, the selling agent, but usually both. Click here to see why. By the way, if you want me to include a custom search link for you on BrettSlattery.com, just give me a call. It only takes me a few minutes to create your own, private, real-time, single-click link to view every property matching your criteria. technology. By the way, the pictures you see are also available in high resolution on the Photos section of BrettSlattery.com.

Rotonda West Manager Resigns

2007-10-17T10:31:00.000-04:00

The Rotonda West Association announced the resignation of RWA manager Julie Pittman today. Click here for more. Julie's successor will be the 4th manager in two years.

Loonie and Euro to Increase Sales

2007-10-13T10:11:00.000-04:00

The media has been giving a lot of attention to the increasing value of the Euro and Loonie. The increased value is expected to increase both real estate and retail sales as the snowbirds return. For more, see today's Englewood Sun and Herald-Tribune.

Thought this was impossible? Here's the Video.

2007-10-12T22:39:00.000-04:00

If I told you this could be done, you probably wouldn't believe me. For example, do you think it's possible for a guy on a dirt bike to ride straight up the vertical side of large bolders? Or ride across the bolders by jumping the bike from one to another? Click here for amazing video. Thank you Jack & Debbie of Rotonda West.

House passes bill to eliminate "phantom" tax on foreclosures.

2007-10-09T08:44:00.000-04:00

The House passed a bill today that will offer tax relief for owners of forclosed properties. Under current US tax law, the amount "forgiven" by lenders in a foreclosure is taxed as ordinary income. This is referred to as a "phantom tax" that has been widely criticized as defaults increase across the country. To make up for the income shortage, the break on long term captial gains on 2nd homes used as primary homes will be reduced proportionately to the percentage of time the home was actually used as a second home. Click here for more.

Snowbirds Returning Early

2007-10-05T11:06:00.000-04:00

Judging from traffic and the assortment of out-of-state license plates, it's apparent that the snowbirds are coming down early and planning on staying longer. The Canadian loonie was worth $.62 in January of 2002 compared with the dollar. Today it is worth $1.00, which is parity. The Euro is strong as well, increasing the attractiveness and buying power of the snowbirds. Vistors are also taking advantage of the declining dollar to save up to $10,000 on car purchases. Click here to read more. By the way, I took the picture on the left in May on Manasota Beach. It's no wonder our area is such a popular international destination.

If I Did It, Why I Did It

2007-10-02T09:03:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been driving down the road trying to ignore a gnat that's zig zagging across the inside of your window shield? For years, I've dealt with this by flicking the back of my finger at them. It recently occured to me that anyone watching this from their own car, not seeing the bug, would have a very misleading impression of what I was doing. I addressed this in a column published 09/21/07.

Christmas Parade Coming to Rotonda

2007-10-02T08:50:00.000-04:00

The Rotonda West Association is joining the Rotonda Elks Club and other volunteers to host a Christmas Parade on 12/02/07. Parts of Rotonda Circle will be closed or the event. The parade will originate at the Elks Club on Rotonda Bl East, turn onto Rotonda Circle, and culminate at the Oakland Hills Marina. A meeting will be held at the Rotonda West Community Center on 10/15/07 at 7 P.M. for interested volunteers. If you can't wait until December to experience Christmas, drop into our area's Walmart or Sam's Club where Christmas decorations already fill the shelves as Christmas carols fill the air.

Super Exemption Pulled Off Ballot

2007-09-25T08:58:00.000-04:00

A Florida judge has pulled the super exemption from the 01/29/08 ballot because it's description is misleading. The description claims that the current tax exemptions, such as the "save our homes" exemption, would be preserved under the new tax system. In fact, it would only be preserved for those taking advantage of it as of 12/31/07. To read my analysis of the super exemption, click here, then here. The super exemption is widely misunderstood, even by the legislatures who crafted it. The super exemption offers the most immediate gratification to homesteaders with sub-$200,000 homes. However, it offers no collectively tax relief since the tax breaks would be funded by imposing progressively higher assessments as the home rises in value. Hardest hit would have been non-homesteaders who would have had to make up the difference. Meaningful tax reform mandates a system whereby relief is given to all property owners, including vacant lot owners, second home owners, commercial owners, and other non-homesteaders. This is healthy development since it will provide impetus to the legislatures to create true tax reform.

Euro and Loonie Rise Against Dollar

2007-09-22T13:31:00.000-04:00

The Canadian Loonie and Euro continued to advance against the dollar this week, with the Loonie reaching parity to the US Dollar (one dollar equals one loonie). This trend continues to increase the affordability of US real estate to foriegn markets. Click here to read more.

I'm Building a Brand New Web Site from scratch this week!

2007-09-10T19:27:00.000-04:00

Hi All. I am building a new web site from scratch so that we can both benefit from brand new technology. I've included a search page where you can search for the homes you want with a single click? For example, if you want to look at homes with pools in the Broadmoor section of Rotonda West, all you click is a single button! All you have to do is scroll down to "Broadmoor", and click the "pool" button. I'm also including some stunning photos of Cape Haze. I took them myself to demonstrate the beauty of Cape Haze. My web site is http://www.brettslattery.com/ . Come take a look. I'm including videos, too.

Please join me on the radio early Saturday afternoon.

2007-08-31T20:47:00.000-04:00

Talk show host Kelley-Ann Ayers has invited me to be a repeat guest on her "Sale Pending" radio show tommoring afternoon at 1:00 pm (US Eastern Time). Kelley's show focuses on the Southwest Florida real estate market. We will be covering a lot of breaking news in a short time. The show will be broadcast live from the Pioneer Days Celebration in Englewood, FL. Kelley's show will be streamed live by WENG-1530 AM. Listen by clicking on http://www.1530weng.com/ then click "Listen Now". We'd love to answer any questions you have. The number is (941) 460-1430. (The number may not be operational since tomorrow's show will be broadcast remotely.
An encore presentation will be broadcast on Sunday, at 9:00 am (use the same links). To watch the video of the last show, click here.

Jumbo Loans, New Roof Codes, Market Bottom, and the Cape Haze Bridge

2007-08-31T12:12:00.000-04:00

There were a lot of interesting articles effecting the real estate market, and Cape Haze today. Click on the links for the full story.

Hank Fishkind believes the Florida real estate market has hit bottom.
If you need a new roof in Florida, you may want to do it by Oct 1st since new codes could add 50% to the cost. The legislature will be asked to postpone this.
The Beruit building and the Cape Haze Bridge, due or demolition and replacement respectively, may supply the concrete and materials need to create a new artificial reef in the gulf.
The interest rates for jumbo loans, those over $417,000, have jumped in recent weeks. While the 30 year fixed rate is at 6.57, rates on jumbo loans have risen to 7.46.

Property Tax Appeal Ordeal

2007-08-29T20:46:00.000-04:00

Many Sarasota property owners are receiving trim notices from the county stating that their properties have been appreciating this year. That's quite a shocker, given the national and real estate trend lines. An associate of mine went to the Sarasota County Appraiser's office to pick up a petition to appeal the increase in appraised value. She was treated poorly, to say the least. I was, too, when I was stonewalled in my quest for information that is normally available to taxpayers. I described our experiences with the Sarasota Property Appraiser in today's column. Click here to read the report.

Abolish Property Taxes

2007-08-18T12:00:00.001-04:00

I have come to the conclusion that real estate taxes are fundamentally unfair. They are based on false assumptions and they impose the funding of municipal services on a select group of the population although the entire population uses these services. I explore the tip of the iceburg in my column this morning.
To read the column, click here.

Property Appraisers Under Fire

2007-08-16T11:51:00.000-04:00

Most Florida counties use a "mass appraisal system" to value properties for tax purposes. This creates inaccuracies that have led me to believe that property taxes should be abolished because they are fundamentally unfair. Don't blame it on the county tax appraisers. They simply are not given the resources needed to make fair appraisals. In Charlotte County, for example, we have small staff of about 70 who are expected to fairly appraise over 210,000 properties. Although I have not yet run this year's analysis, it would appear that Charlotte County's appraiser is doing a much better job than his counterparts in surrounding counties. A report from the Herald-Tribune today discusses a street that serves as the border between 2 counties. The tax appraised value of the properties fluctuate wildly, depending on which side of the street they are on. In Manatee County, even though the real estate market has gone through a downturn, property owners are being told their properties have increased in value during the period, obligating them to higher taxes. Click here for the full report.

Hurricane Charley

2007-08-14T17:25:00.000-04:00

Three years ago, hurricane Charley hit Charlotte County. One of the the "poster" pictures for this storm was the destruction of the Auto Zone in Port Charlotte. But few people realize there is video depicting Charley sending the storefront down the road in large bits and pieces. To view the video, click here. Advance the time bar to about 3 minutes to bypass the less exciting video. When time permits, I will post videos I took as Charley hit Cape Haze. By the way, I have been researching our local home builders. I am extremely impressed with one company's ability to build a category 5 resistant home for slightly more than it cost to build a convention home. A bathroom doubles as a "safe room" which is a literal bunker. If you plan on building, please call me. The home could potentially save you up to 60% discount on your homeowner's insurance.

Exciting Speaking Engagement

2007-08-08T19:43:00.000-04:00

Although I am not "politicaly active", I am very flattered that the Republican Party of Charlotte County has invited me to be the guest speaker at their monthly dinner meeting next week. This is in response to newspaper articles I have published in the Suncoast Media newspapers and radio interviews I have granted exploring the hidden pros and cons of tax reform. The organizers have also invited state representatives and lawmakers to attend in order to "clarify issues which may arise" during my presentation (click here or the picture for more details). If you plan on attending, please jot down any questions you may have regarding this complex issue. To read my analysis of the super exemption, click here for installment 1; click here for installment 2; or click here for more on Save our Homes.

Charlotte County Considers Scrub Jay Relief

2007-08-07T23:25:00.000-04:00

Charlotte County is considering Scrub Jay Relief for property owners by creating a Scrub Jay Habitat. This is very good news for the 21,886 properties in Charlotte County that are affected by the presence of scrub jays (the news stories only reference vacant lots, but should have included homes). To read the story in the Sun, click here. To read coverage from the Herald-Tribune, click here. My last published analysis showed that the prescence of a scub jay can reduce a vacant lot's value by about 50%. It is possible that this program could reduce the lot's by a mere $2,000 instead. This would also be very beneficial to the scrub jays, since their survival rate is higher within large preserves rather than scattered clusters of land.

The Five Stages of Real Estate Grief

2007-08-01T14:48:00.000-04:00

Lang Capasso interviewed my friend and fellow Realtor, Kristin Conti, for his column this morning. Kristin talks about the five stages of grief that many sellers endure in today's market. Lang and Kristin are right on. These stages can be eliminated by pricing your home correctly. I'll give you an example. Last year I sold my second home in Palm Point. My neighbor commented that I priced it too low; that I should hold out for more money. I sold the home in 72 days. It is the only home that has sold in that neighborhood since 2004. It was priced to sell and it did. By pricing it correctly, I have since saved about $49,000 in carrying charges. Lang and Kristin offer great insights into why most homes are overpriced today. To read Lang's column, click here.

Florida Windows

2007-07-31T12:56:00.000-04:00

I had never seen an awning window until I moved to Florida from San Diego. I was surprised how different and diverse window styles are here compared to other parts of the country. If you want to see something amusing, point to a window and ask a group of people "what kind of window is that"? If you're not sure of the difference between a jalouise window and a louvered window, click here for a cool web site that lists the various window types common in Florida. The windows shown in the picture are part of the Loza Home. It is a luxury home, listed at $318,000 that is sprawled over 1/2 acre on the Cape Haze Penninsula. It includes an indoor sauna, bidet, a massive used-brick fireplace with an embedded living-room bar-b-que, and a lot more surprises. Click here for pictures and videos.

Bargains Galore - David Dunn-Rankin Column

2007-07-30T21:06:00.000-04:00

A growing number of my fellow agents who are active in the front trenches of today's real estate marekt are convinced that the current real estate market is rife with bargains? In past posts, I have alluded to the fact that new and nearly/new homes are selling below their construction costs. When you can buy a brand new home that is priced under today's lot replacement costs plus the cost to construct it is less than the asking price, that's a bargain. David Dunn-Rankin offered some great insights into our current real estate market this morning. Click here to read his analysis (picture (c) Copyright 2007 Suncoast Media Group).

Hank Fishkind says Florida real estate market already hit bottom.

2007-07-27T13:44:00.000-04:00

Economist Hank Fishkind is probably the most respected real estate analyst in Florida. He believes that "outside of Miami’s condominium market, the state’s housing markets hit bottom months ago and are now on a slow return to normalcy." I find it interesting that an increasing number of analysts on shows such as CNBC are discussing the shape of "the recovery". One analysts yesterday believes the recovery will be a "V" shape bounce of the bottom as pent-up demand is unleashed upon the market's perception that the bottom has occurred. One thing is for sure. Real estate is local. This pertains to more than geographical boundaries. For example, Hank points to the growing glut of condos in Miami, while noting that the overall picture for Florida is quite positive based on a strong economy, positive growth in population, and especially the growth of jobs in Florida. To Read more, click here.

Time to Buy

2007-07-23T15:34:00.000-04:00

Real estate has proved to be one of the most profitable, if not the most profitable, investment over time. For centuries, it has moved steadily upwards. Of course, there are cycles within the long term upwards march. Historically, real estate experiences cyclical down swings, but most are followed by a new cyclical upturn that surpases the highs of the previous top. David Dunn-Rankin addresses that in his column today, focusing on North Port. Click here to read his column. There are some very encouraging signs that the bottom may be near. The inventory of single family homes is slowly decreasing as building permits have practically dried up. One sign I find encouraging is that new homes are coming onto the market that are listed lower than their construction costs.

Last Call for Save our Homes?

2007-07-19T18:49:00.000-04:00

According the Charlotte County records, there is a home in Cape Haze that is valued at over $1,000,000. However, the owner only pays property taxes on $126,887. Why? The owner enjoys "save our homes" protection, which caps the appreciation at 3% per year. This is a virtual gold mine. If the Super Exemption passes on 08/29/08, only those who have qualfied for save our homes protection before the end of this year can elect to be grandfathered in. In other words, this may be the last chance to capitalize on the "save our homes" protection. To read my column on this subject in today's Sun newspapers, click here.

Rick Barry's research on the proposed "super exemption"

2007-07-10T19:56:00.000-04:00

Rick Barry wrote an excellent feature story in the Pelican Press this week that I think you should be aware of. It is based on his research of the super exemption. Alan Cole is a senior partner in the Miami-Ft. Lauderdale firm of Weiss Serota Helfman Pastoriza Cole & Boniske. The firms attorneys represent 12 municipalities, and are special counsel to 40 others. The firm has determined that the proposed "super exemption" violtates the Florida State Constitution. Click here to read Rick's feature story.

Murdock Village Moves Forward

2007-07-08T13:53:00.000-04:00

Kit Kitson & Partners and Charlotte County have come to a verbal agreement to develop Murdock Village. This mixed use project, including 2475 new homes, will be located near the Town Center Mall which is located near the intersection of 41 and SR-776. Click here for the details.

Rotonda West - Manager search and law suite

2007-07-03T15:06:00.000-04:00

The Rotonda West Association continues it's search for a new manager after firing the previous manager months ago. Curiously, the former manager was fired after cashing a CD in order to meet the association's payroll and other operating expenses. The manager's departure shocked many in the community. He was hired on the basis of his stellar reputation in the community, his extensive experience in the field, and an educational background that includes a masters in business. He has field suit. Many believe the motive for his firing was political. Click here to read the opinion of our local newspaper on this subject. To read today' newspaper story on this unfolding event, click here.

Live on WENG Radio - Behind the Scenes Video

2007-07-01T21:09:00.000-04:00

I was flattered that talk show host Kelley-Ann Ayers invited me back a 2nd week for a guest appearance on her live, radio real estate show - "Sale Pending". I routinely tune in to Kelley's "market report", so I found it very exciting that she invited me to interact with her live during her early afternoon Saturday broadcast from the WENG studios. To view streaming video of our on-air discussion concerning the proposed "super exemption" tax reform and how it would affect you, click here. To view video of the weekly 'market report", click here. Thanks again Kelley-Ann for inviting me to appear on your show.

The Great Two Minute Fix

2007-06-28T08:02:00.000-04:00

Like other Realtors, I am heavily dependent on electronic devices to facilitate my job. I've had 4 devices fail recently. It occured to me that I fixed every one using the same procedure, which took less then 2 minutes. This realization is saving me lots of time. I now implement this procedure before calling technical support or reading trouble shooting manuals. I explore this further in today's column. Click here if you've hit some bumps keeping your electronic devices up and running.

More on the Proposed Super Exemption

2007-06-25T17:42:00.001-04:00

Tax reform and the proposed super exemption will be a hot topic into Jan 2008. In today's Sun Newspapers, I elaborated on more "unintended" consequences of this reform. Please click on the picture of the colum to the left to read the full text. As a sidebar, local Realtor and talk show host Kelley-Ann Ayers and I will be exploring the impacts of property tax reform on her "Sale Pending" show this Saturday & Sunday. To hear us live via web broadcast come back here at 1:06 pm US Esatern time on (US) Saturday, 06/30/07 and click on WENG-1530. Then click "Listen Now". If you have any questions for Kelley & I, please call us during the show at (941) -460-1530. If you are calling from the UK, our country code is 011.

Live on WENG 1530 am

2007-06-23T15:43:00.000-04:00

Property taxes are a hot issue in Florida. Realtors around the state are posing some tough questions to unravel the mysteries of the proposed "super exemption". I want to thank local Realtor Erick Phelps of Corin Bay Real Estate for drawing attention to my coverage in the Sun newspapers. I also want to thank Kelly-Ann Ayers, also of Keller Williams, for inviting me as a guest on her weekly radio show this morning. We discussed different facets of the proposed tax reform, and will be doing so again next Saturday. To hear a rebroadcast of the show on 06/24/07 at 9:00 am, click on WENG-1530 am, then click on "Listen Live". By the way, it's I appreciate the opportunity to work with other Realtors who are advocating for the public on this complex issue. Although it's a competitive field, as one old-timer told me, "the pie is big enough for everyone". Pictured above is Realtor and talk show host Kelly-Ann Ayers posing a question as we dissect the proposed tax reform.

Older and Wiser

2007-06-21T11:15:00.000-04:00

Charlotte County has more senior citizens per capita than any other county in the US. That is one reason for our "laid back" lifestyle. It slows things down to a more relaxing pace. New residents adjust to this knowing that "older is wiser". Here's another fact: Replacing a discharged air bag can easily costs over $1,000. You have 2 choices when you move here. You can either slow down and enjoy the pace, or you can swim against the tide in an effort to speed things up. But before you try that, you better click here so see the consequences.

Classic European American Luxury Home

2007-06-18T18:46:00.000-04:00

The media in New York and the UK produced reports a few months ago indicating the Florida Real Estate Market is overpriced. That was very misleading because they treated Florida as if we are one big neighborhood. Real Estate is local. There is a vast difference between the real markets of Miami and Rotonda West, for example. If you think the Florida real estate market is overpriced, click here to see what $318,000 buys. Be sure to check out the video that depicts a beautiful Florida sunset from the backyard. By the way, I am very particular about the homes I list. If a home is not worthy of it's own web site, I don't list it. To see more homes that qualify for the royal treatment, please visit my web site.

The Dark Side of Property Tax Reform

2007-06-18T18:11:00.000-04:00

The legislature made meaningful progress on property tax reform last week by passing a law limiting the increases counties can impose on property owners. We are moving in the right direction. The voters will determine if step 2 is implemented on 01/29/2008. They will vote on the "super exemption". I created a computer model to see if there are any flaws with this proposal. I published the results in the Sun newspapers on 06/18/07. Although the proposal appears to provide relief, my computer model indicates the real effect will be to convert our property tax system from a linear tax system to a "progressive" tax system. That means your taxes increase disportionately as your property's value increases. Under one scenario, your property taxes would be 4 times higher than your neighbor's if your home is worth just twice as much. And worse, the proposal does nothing to help snowbirds and non-homesteaded property owners. Meaningful tax reform needs to provide equal tax relief for everyone. On the bright side, I believe the public is beginning to understand this. To read my analysis of the "super exemption" proposal, click here. By the way, when I speak in terms of doubling or tripling taxes, please keep in mind that I am referring to the unintended consequence where by some property tax owners would pay double or triple taxes on their property values compared to others in lower tiers.

More about the Song in Today's Column

2007-06-14T15:43:00.000-04:00

I appreciate hearing from my readers. In response to today's business column, I received quite a few emails asking where they can hear the song I referenced in the column. I thought you might like a brief history first. In 1970, I was working at a liquor store. I would sit on a low chair behind the counter where I would make up songs. I can't sing, so I would just think up words while creating new songs. Customers approaching the counter with their purchases were surprised to see me behind the counter and frequently commented they thought the music was the radio. I got a wild idea. I taught the lyrics to my friend, Lori, and we recorded the song. Lori sang and I played a 12 string, Guild F212 guitar using heavy gauage strings and metal finger picks. We stamped out 100 45 rpm records and sent them to radio stations and record companies. Within a few weeks, the four top stations in San Diego were giving the song heavy air time. Record companies that contacted me lost interest when they discovered I was unable to promote my songs on tour due to stage fright, tone deafness, and a terrible memory for remembering chords and lyrics. I recorded a 2nd song that also received heavy air time. It hit the airwaves about 20 minutes after we dropped off a tape at the first radio station. I feel very fortunate to have experienced the thrill of turning the radio dial and hearing my songs played. The song I referenced is "Lady of Nature". Since receiving the Google Alert, I have contacted the collector who re-published it and gave him more background which he has added to his site. His web site is dynamic, so there may be different songs featured. Try clicking here, then click on "Lady of Nature" to hear it. In case that doesn't work, you can download or play it by clicking here. If you have broadband, it'll take about 20 seconds to download.

How to Monitor the World

2007-06-14T14:48:00.000-04:00

Several months ago I wrote a column that refered to stock market analyst, Bob Brinker. The same day, I was contacted by the president of his fan club. I was surprised to learn he had never heard of the newspapers where I am published. A little digging revealed he is notified by Google Alerts anytime a new reference was made to Bob Brinker on the web. Google alerts is a free service that lets you place up to 150 people, places, or things on your watch list. I now use it primarily to alert me whenever my name pops up on the web and to monitor neighborhoods where I sell real estate. Click here to read today's column relaying the power of Google Alerts. In today's column, I referenced an exciting Google Alert notifying me that a 45 rpm that I recorded in 1970 had been purchased at a garage sale in San Diego and is now being re-circulated on the web on a collector's website. I received quite a few inquiries from readers asking about the song and wanting to know where they can hear it. Thank you. I'll upload it this afternoon and then post a separate entry where you can listen.

Latest on Property Tax Reform

2007-06-09T14:22:00.000-04:00

Legislatures are working around the clock to draft property tax reform. They are moving quickly, as everyone agrees this is an important issue. Click here for the latest.

Why knock down the walls?

2007-06-08T21:00:00.000-04:00

Today's architectural designs call for wide open spaces inside the home. This is a recent, and rather radical change from the centuries-old tradition of designing homes as compartmentalized rooms. I've noticed a trend towards modernizing existing homes by knocking down, or remodeling, walls that divide. I recently placed a home under contract. The home next door has the same floor plan. The couple who own that home, Ned and Anna, have done an outstanding job of remodeling a dividing wall to merge the living room and kitchen into what we now refer to as a "great room". I thank them for allowing me to share the results with you. I created a web site to show you how they radically modernized their home by converting a wall into a very inviting, kitchen island. Click here to see for yourself. Thank you Ned and Anna.

Rotonda West to get 2 new lakes.

2007-06-08T19:51:00.000-04:00

The headlines read "Rotonda West residents lose a development war against dirt mines". However, I see this as a win/win. Rotonda Golf Partners LLC are creating 2 new lakes for the new Pine Valley Golf Course. Rotonda Golf Partners have been an outstanding partner and neighbor to the citizens of Rotonda West. As a former director and VP of the Rotonda West Association, I witnessed the sincere, behind-the-scenes efforts the golf course developers have taken to be a good neighbor. In the short term, there will be noise as the dirt is hauled off. But in return, 2 large lakes will be created to insure the courses have a viable, and economically friendly, source of water to maintain the lush golf courses that add so much value and character to Rotonda West properties. If I owned property adjacent to the new lakes, I would be begging the developers to bring the lakes as close to my property as possible. Many property owners in Rotonda West are graced with stunning views of lush green fairways and sparkling blue water. If you have any doubts about the value a golf course lake brings to a property, click on the picture. I have this gorgeous home under contract, so it is no longer available. This home also enjoys the benefits of a golf course, lake view. By the way, this course was also developed by Rotonda Golf Partners LLC. Click on the picture to enlarge it. To read the news story, click here.

Englewood Home Depot recommended for approval

2007-06-08T19:45:00.000-04:00

A few months ago, Cape Haze got it's own Ace Hardware on Placida Road. Construction on a new Home Depot near Duffy's Golf Course on SR-776 could begin within a few weeks. Click here for more info.

Tax Reform Moving Ahead

2007-06-04T17:21:00.000-04:00

Property tax reform is moving ahead at full speed. The latest proposal favored by both the house and senate, calls for giving homeowners a "super exemption", rather than the $25,000 exemption. The proposal would force county governments to reduce property taxes in proportion to the increases imposed in recent years. Click here for more details.

Construction on 2 new Cape Haze bridges coming soon.

2007-06-01T12:05:00.000-04:00

Construction on the new Cape Haze Drive bridge (near Publix) is expected to begin this fall. A second new bridge designed to eliminate the hairpin turn near the Fishery Restaurant near the Boca Grande Causway should begin next month. Click here for more details.

Analysts turning optimistic on Florida's Real Estate Recovery

2007-06-01T11:49:00.000-04:00

While no one has a crystal ball, the number of respected analysts who believe the real estate market has already seen the worst is. Analysts sharing this optimism include Henry Fishkind and National Association of Realtors' top economist Lawrence Yun. Yun believes "because of Florida's growth, geography and demographics, the Sunshine State is likely to recover faster than the broader market and that the Sarasota-Manatee market might be among the first in the state to rebound." To read what each has to say, click on their links.

Brett & Deb Married Saturday

2007-05-27T20:27:00.000-04:00

Deb & I were married Saturday morning in a small, private ceremony on Manasota Key. We kept it very small and simple so we could enjoy our wedding day relaxing and having fun. Thank you to our friends who brought their cameras. Click Here for video.
Click Here pictures.

Real Estate - Champagne Time

2007-05-23T12:51:00.000-04:00

In most of the US, home prices are down from the peak. While the media bemoans this, there is a silver lining for those who know how to capitalize on this. For example, the 25% rollback in single family home prices presents a golden opportunity for trading up. The decline gives you more leverage to position yourself for the next run-up. And, positions you to enjoy a lower "save our homes basis" that can save you thousands of dollars year after year. I explore some of the dynamics behind these opportunities in my morning business column (which the paper misprinted in the sports section). To read the column, click here.

Pine Valley Golf Course desires to create it's own water source!

2007-05-17T20:52:00.000-04:00

The developers of the Pine Valley Golf Course have applied for a permit to create 2 large lakes near the intersection of Rotonda Circle and Tee View Rd. Some Rotonda residents are concerned about noise and road deterioration. A full dump truck applies as much wear on a road as 9,600 vehicles. On the other hand, the golf course, which adds value to the neighborhood, will be able to create it's own water source. I wonder if the opposition would subside if the excavation could be completed in months rather than years. From my experience as a homeowner's association vice president and director, the operators of the golf courses have been exceptionally conscientious when it comes to being a good neighbor. Click here for more.

Charlotte County rejects Cape Haze condos

2007-05-17T07:41:00.000-04:00

Cape Haze homeowners persuaded the county commissioners to reject a proposal to allow the building of 290 condos on the land formally known as the Wildflower Golf Course. Click here for the story.

Wild Life Shows from my own back yard.

2007-05-15T22:30:00.000-04:00

I love Cape Haze. It's like living in the Discovery Channel. Cape Haze is a magnet that draws migratory species that routinely fly over a 1,000 miles just to get here. For us, traveling that far by plane is an effort. Imagine having to fly that far twice a year with your own wings? Wow! Birds are amazing. Every week I spend at least an hour filming wildlife shows from my backyard in Cape Haze. Tuesday, near dusk, a great horned owl came swooping into my backyard. I was alerted by the sqawking of 3 mockingbirds. The owl flew next door to my neighbors 40' majestic pine and perched on top. The mockingbirds, who have nests scattered throughout my backyward and the adjacent wildlife preserves, went into defensive mode. They took turns diving on the owl to deliver a sharp peck. How do you think the great horned owl, which many acknowledge to be the fiercest bird in the sky, reacted to this. I filmed it to share with you. Turn up your computer speakers so you can hear the mockingbirds sqwaking. Then... Click here for the video.