Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Star Real Estate Agent - Amelia Island

Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty is so proud to announce that one of our agents was named a Five Star Real Estate Agent for 2009! Each year, Florida Homebuyer Jacksonville magazine lists the top real estate agents in Northeast Florida and each year Prudential agents make the list. The agents are chosen by an independent survey completed by recent homebuyers and other industry experts to find the best in client satisfaction. The survey asks recent homebuyers to evaluate their real estate agent based on communication, customer service, integrity, finding the right home, negotiation, marketing the home, closing preparation, market knowledge and overall satisfaction. Less than 4 percent of more than 10,000 licensed agents in the Jacksonville area make the cut, so we want you to meet the best! Call John Holbrook 904-415-0171

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Concours d’Elegance

This years Concours d’Elegance is scheduled for March 12-14th 2010. In addition to an amazing collection of classic cars this year the Honoree will be Nascar legend Richard Petty!

The event will also celebrate the 40th anniversary of Porsche’s victory at the 24 hours of Daytona and Le mans and showcase a number of influential Porsche 917’s.


John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Waterman's Bluff Lots

Click here for Waterman's Bluff Lots

http://nas.ctimls.com/Report.asp?359NAS3;449346,449341,449339,449340,449338,451097,450866,450549

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Amelia Island Plantation Residential Properties

Amelia Island Plantation Residential Properties - Click Here

http://nas.ctimls.com/Report.asp?698NAS3;143599,149963,148322,149434,150290,150382,147962,150030,150009,150811,150874,147936,149609,147051,150249,143250,148986,148286,147797,148401,148456,149706,149410,151015,146714,150883,149529,150280,149547,148341,148808,150731,147798,141662,150641,149578

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Carolyn Lockhart Property Search

Dear Jacki,

Thank you for visiting the Prudential Chaplin Williams web site and for your interest in the Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee area. I am a full time agent with the company and would be happy to assist you in your search and help you locate the property that is right for you.

Please email or call at your convenience and provide me with information regarding your needs and timeframe for your property search. If you would like to provide specific criteria I will begin to search the MLS for a home or lot that matches your needs.

Also, if you are unfamiliar with the area and would like some general information I will be happy to send a packet with various publications, a map and any other specific areas of interest.

I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you with your search.

Carolyn Lockhart
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
(904) 557-3227
cwl64@bellsouth.net
www.ameliaislandduo.com (go to my website to search the local MLS!)

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, December 7, 2009

Jacksonville Housing Report

Jacksonville, FL – Traffic Up, but Signs of a Lull in Buying Emerge
(5,135 single-family permits in 2008, 18th largest market in the country)

Traffic increased, but buyers now lack urgency. Buyer traffic improved again in
November following the gains seen in October, as our traffic index improved to 45.5 from 36, indicating traffic levels essentially in-line with agents’ expectations for this time of year (a reading of 50 suggests traffic in-line with expectations). Agents said buyers remained active throughout the month following the extension of the tax credit, but that the traffic has not converted into sales as buyers lack urgency. “We have more calls but folks still are not buying,” according to one agent. Another noted, “Buyers are looking but with so much on the market, few actually buy.” Others commented that now that the tax credit has been extended through the spring selling season, buyers feel no sense of urgency to buy now
during the typically slow late fall/winter months and given the belief that home prices may fall further.

Prices remain under pressure despite lower inventory levels. Home prices continued
to fall in November, as our price index dropped to 14 from 29 in October, with any reading below 50 indicating lower home prices over the past 30 days. Prices remain under pressure as a result of the persistently high levels of foreclosures and short sales on the market, despite lower overall inventory levels. Our home listings index increased to 64 in November from 57 in October, with readings above 50 indicating lower inventory. However, foreclosures remain the key driver and will likely continue to pressure prices further in the coming months.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Mortgage Relief - IRS

Mortage Relief Info.
http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/0,,id=179414,00.html

Stephen E. Doss, CPA
DOSS|WEEKS
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
2338 South Eighth Street
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Tel: (904) 277-0009
Fax: (904) 277-0093

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, November 23, 2009

Florida Home Sales Report – 3rd Quarter 2009

Florida Sales Report – 3rd Quarter 2009
Single-Family, Existing Homes

Realtor Sales Median Sales Price
Statewide &Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) 3rd Qrtr.2009 3rd Qrtr.2008 %Chge 3rd Qr2009 3rd Qr2008 %Chge
STATEWIDE* (1) 44,345 33,311 33% $145,400 $185,600 -22
Nassau County 117 96 23% $190,000 $244,500 -22

Florida Sales Report – 3rd Quarter 2009
Existing Condominiums

Realtor Sales Median Sales Price
Statewide &Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) 3rd Qrtr.2009 3rd Qrtr.2008 %Chge 3rd Qrtr.2009 3rd Qrtr.2008 %Chge
STATEWIDE* (1) 14,797 9,488 56% $106,100 $160,100 -34
Nassau County 23 25 -8% $240,000 $390,000 -38


John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Amelia Island Plantation files for Bankruptcy

Amelia Island Plantation resort said it will continue to operate while it reorganizes under Chapter 11 bankruptcy, aided by an investment deal with residents of the island.

Amelia Island Co., which operates the Nassau County resort, filed for bankruptcy Friday in Florida’s Middle District of U.S. Bankruptcy Court. A judge immediately issued an order that will allow operations to continue while it reorganizes its finances.

The company said it would not have sufficient cash to meet its Nov. 20 payroll without access to a debtor-in-possession loan facility. It employs more than 825, down 275 positions from its staffing level prior to the recession.

Amelia Island Co. said it had signed an agreement with a group of of wealthy investors who own homes at the Plantation to provide it with $18 million to $20 million debtor-in-possession financing. The Red Leaf Investors, led by long-time resident Robert C. Smith, will provide funding as well as long-term strategic and asset management services in an effort to enhance operations and improve financial performance.

“This debt restructuring will pave the way to the profitable operation of our resort," Jack Healan, president of Amelia Island Plantation, said in a release. "They are providing immediate interim financing with the intent of becoming long-term equity partners in the Company, which we welcome."

Amelia Island Co. also disclosed in its court filings that it is working a deal with Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. to purchase the Amelia Inn, the conference center, spa and two golf courses, Ocean Links and Oak Marsh, for $43 million.

The Plantation has been struggling with slowing occupancy of its rental units and a stagnant leisure and business travel industry since at least October 2008, when it began to suffer from a significant negative cash flow. Revenues have fallen from $75 million in 2007 to an estimated $57 million this year. Profits have fallen from a $7 million profit in 2007 to a “substantial loss” in 2009, according to court documents.

The bankruptcy proceedings follow a failed $60 million investment effort earlier this year with Atlanta-based Redquartz Developments Atlanta, which would have injected much-needed funding for operations of the 1,350-acre resort.

The company estimated assets to be between $50 million and $100 million, equivalent to its estimated liabilities. The filing attached 23 pages of creditors.

“AIC anticipates that the severe decline in business meeting, vacation travel and the real estate brokerage business is not permanent and that its business will recover by 2011,” the company stated in court documents.

The Plantation includes a 249-room oceanside hotel, 49,000 square feet of meeting place, nine restaurants, 23 tennis courts and four award-wining 18-hole golf courses, among other amenities. Its 1,150 condos, 800 homes and 180 lots have an aggregate value of $1.95 billion, according to court documents.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Amelia Island Company

Amelia Island Co. in Chapter 11 bankruptcy

By Michael Parnell, News-Leader

Amelia Island Co. has filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. There will be “business as usual” at the Amelia Island Plantation resort while the company reorganizes and firms up its finances.

Amelia Island Co. announced Friday it has signed an agreement with a new investor group, Red Maple Investors, LLC (RMI), to help ensure the future of the 1,350-acre resort.

The investor group, all residents of the island, "delivers immediate interim financing and long-term financial planning and expertise while assuring the uninterrupted operation of the resort," a press release stated. As part of the agreement, the Amelia Island Co. will restructure its debt and liabilities in bankruptcy court.

"We're pleased that RMI truly believes in our vision for the future, as well as our commitment to a resort community that exists in harmony with nature," said Jack Healan, president of Amelia Island Plantation, in the press release. "The resources they bring to our relationship will provide the continued high-quality service of the resort that our leisure and conference guests have come to expect when they visit us and that our club members and property owners enjoy every day."

RMI is a group of high net-worth Amelia Island Plantation homeowners investing in Amelia Island Co. with the goal of building a financially healthy company. The group was formed and is led by 19-year resident Robert C. Smith.

"Our investors believe in the potential for the long-term success of Amelia Island Plantation and are pleased to be able to provide the needed financial and strategic support to accomplish this in a professional and thoughtful way. All of us in RMI want to protect this little paradise we have come to love. And we are willing to put up our own money to assure its success far into the future," said Smith in the press release.

"This debt restructuring will pave the way to the profitable operation of our resort. They are providing immediate interim financing with the intent of becoming long-term equity partners in the company, which we welcome," said Healan. "We have a great group of people in RMI, and we look forward to the opportunity to deliver an even stronger customer experience as well as providing stable employment to our staff."

One of the RMI investors is John A. Griswold, president of Harbor Hotel Investors, LLC. Griswold has more than 30 years' experience in the ownership, operation and management of hotels and resorts.

There will be no "interruption" in Plantation management, employees were told, though changes are coming. The News-Leader has learned that longtime Amelia Island Co. vice presidents Norman Bray, who is retiring, and Richard Goldman, who has resigned, will be leaving before year's end. Goldman will become director of the Convention and Visitors Bureau in St. Augustine.

Employees were told in an e-mail distributed Friday that "the signing of the local investors and the restructuring of our debt in Chapter 11 is a very good thing for the company, our customers and our employees. It means business as usual. ..."

Employees were told there would be "adequate financing to sustain operations at current levels, including maintaining facilities and amenities like golf courses, tennis courts, restaurants, spa and shops.
"Staffing will be maintained commensurate with business levels.
"AIP remains an AAA 4-Diamond, independent resort."

Chapter 11 protection "will affect how much vendors and other creditors are paid on past invoices and debt. ... Those vendors who continue to do business with the Plantation will be paid on a current basis," the company wrote employees.

There have been numerous job terminations this fall, and remaining employees have had their pay cut 40 percent after mandatory furloughs.

Amelia Island Co. owns all of the resort and recreational facilities and amenities on Amelia Island Plantation, including the Amelia Island Club. Both are affected by the bankruptcy filing.

The Amelia Island Plantation Community Association is the homeowners' association under Florida law that owns, manages and maintains roads, common areas and provides for security, landscaping, drainage and the like. That association is funded by property owner assessments and is not directly impacted by the filing.

Plantation residents have been invited to informal coffees all next week at which representatives of the company and new investors group will explain the consequences of the changes.

A proposed merger with the Atlanta subsidiary of an Irish development company fell apart earlier this year as the economy soured. Redquartz Developments Atlanta, a real estate investment company affiliated with Redquartz Developments, Ltd., of Dublin, signed a memorandum of understanding in January that could have led to $60 million in improvements at the Plantation.

The deal was to give Redquartz Developments Atlanta 51 percent of equity in Amelia Island Co., giving it majority control. The Cooper family, which has owned the company since 1978, would have retained the remaining 49 percent.

The plan was to upgrade and expand the Plantation's infrastructure and increase the number of international visitors. There are plans to build new hotels and other amenities and to modernize current facilities, most of them dating back several decades, but they have not been implemented for lack of financing.

Richard L. Cooper, an Ohio businessman who died last year at 82, purchased the Plantation property from the Sea Pines Co., in 1978. Sea Pines Co., which developed Hilton Head Island, S.C., originally bought 3,000 acres on the south end of the island that was proposed for a strip mine but ultimately ran into financial difficulties in redeveloping it.

Healan was an accountant with Sea Pines Co., and he and Bray, also with Sea Pines, have been part of Plantation management for more than three decades. The company is now owned by the Cooper family trust.

Chapter 11 is the chapter of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code that permits reorganization and is not intended to lead to liquidation. While the company would not pay most of its debts at full value, its primary debtor is more likely to be repaid.

That is an arm of Prudential Financial Services Inc., which holds liens on much of the Plantation property and its buildings. Under the debtor-in-possession, or DIP, financing provided by law for companies in Chapter 11, Prudential's security is senior to other debts, equities or securities issued by the company and will be repaid first.

Prudential Financial Services Inc., headquartered in Newark, N.J., is a worldwide company with businesses in life insurance, annuities, retirement services, mutual funds, investment management and real estate services. Its brand symbol is the rock, inspired by the Rock of Gibraltar.

Story created Nov 13, 2009 - 13:16:30 PST.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Banked Owned Property Amelia Island

208 17th Street
Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034
Well maintained home on nice lot at a great price. Wood floors are in great shape. Good sized master bedroom. This property is approved for HomePath Renovation Mortgage financing.

Price $99,900. Call me for a showing.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Amelia National

Limited time Reduced fees at Amelia National Golf Course in Fernandina Beach.

Original Initiation Fee $45,000.00
Special promotion Initiation Fee $15,000
Annual Dues $5600.00
Annual F & B minimum $900.00
18 Hole cart Fee $24.00

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Home Sales

Existing homes sales in the Jacksonville metro area rose 28 percent in the third quarter of 2009, while existing condominium sales rose 53 percent, according to the Florida Association of Realtors.

During the third quarter, 3,377 single family homes were sold in Northeast Florida along with 435 condos. The median price for single family sales dropped 17 percent to $150,600 and the median price for condos dropped 22 percent to $114,600. Neither the single family home or the condo information included data from the Amelia Island-Nassau County Association of Realtors.

All of Florida’s metropolitan statistical areas reported increased sales of existing homes in the third quarter compared with the same period last year.

Statewide existing home sales rose 33 percent during the third quarter to 44,345. It was the fifth consecutive quarter that Florida has seen higher existing year-over-year homes. Statewide existing condo sales rose 56 percent to 14,797. The median price for existing homes dropped 22 percent to $145,400 and the median price for existing condos dropped 34 percent to $106,100.

Still, according to Tim Becker, the director of the University of Florida’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies, Florida isn’t out of the woods yet.

“Most economists think the recession is over, but people are afraid to spend money as unemployment keeps going up, which creates problems for every sector of the real estate market,” Becker said.

According to UF’s quarterly survey, respondents expressed increasing optimism about their own business outlook and predicted greater opportunities for future investment.

“Everybody thinks that Florida will rebound because we have so much going for us - the sun shines every day and there are a lot of advantages to living here,” Becker said. “Foreign investors see that too and believe their prospects are good for long-term investments.”

John Holbrook - Realtor
904-415-0171
Amelia Island, Florida 32034

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Self Storage on Amelia Island

Need a self storage facility on Amelia Island? Try Amelia Island Self Storage located at 2641 Bailey Road in Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034. The web site is www.ameliaislandselfstorage.com

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty

Just went Pending!
97129 Blackbeard's Way in Pirate's Wood. Home, lot and deep water dock. List price $509,000. Agent John Rogers with Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty. Looking for deep water property? Many more options are available. Send me an email for a complete list: holbrook66@msn.com

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Manucy Road Auction

Rowell Auctioneers will be selling 4 lots in an absolute auction this month on Manucy Road in Amelia Island this month. Information can be found at www.rowellauctions.com

Please call me for more information.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Summer Beach Enclave Auction

Rowell Auctioneers will be holding an absolute auction for 8 townhouses in Summer Beach on Amelia Island. These units are in the Enclave. They range in size from 3 to 4 bedrooms. Information can be found at www.rowellauctions.com

Please call me for additional information.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Amelia Park Auction

Amelia Park Auction for four vacant lots in the coastal district will be done be Rowell Auctioneers of Georgia. Information can be found at www.rowellauctions.com

Please call me for information regarding these properties.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, November 9, 2009

Jacksonville Market

Jacksonville, FL – Traffic Bounces Back as Buyers
Look to Beat Credit Deadline

(5,135 single-family permits in 2008, 18th largest market in the country)
Traffic rebounded modestly in October. Buyer traffic improved in October after dropping in September, as our traffic index increased to 36 from 27, although any reading below 50 still suggests traffic below agents’ expectations for this time of year. Agents who saw better sequential traffic trends attributed it to a last minute rush from buyers looking to get into homes before the tax credit deadline, while short sales and bank-owned homes remained popular among buyers. On the other side, some agents noted continued caution based on the overall weak economy and the expectation that the overhang of vacant homes being held by banks will continue to weigh on the market. In addition, there was little activity at the high end and buyers expect high end prices to fall further in the coming
months.

Prices fall, but lower inventory a positive. Home prices continued to fall in October, as our price index fell to 29 from 36 in September, with any reading below 50 indicating lower home prices over the past 30 days. Agents noted continued pressure from short sales and foreclosures, while an expected decline in high end pricing could lead to further downside. On a positive note, agents noted sequentially lower inventories in October after an increase last month. Our home listings index improved to 57 in October from 36 in September, with readings above 50indicating lower inventory. Foreclosures will remain the key.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Alan Vanderheiden - Local Bank Rates

alan.van@regions.com

November 5, 2009,

FNMA 30 Year Fixed: 4.875%
FNMA 15 Year Fixed: 4.25%

USDA / FHA / VA: 5.00%

Hello Friends,

I hope that you are doing well.

Rates continue be hold at near historical levels and will do so for the next few months.

In October, 190,000 jobs were lost….higher than the 175,000 expected raising the unemployment rate to 10.2%. This number has an emotional factor….folks feel different when unemployment numbers top 10% and consumer confidence may take a hit. This is the highest level since 1983. Some economists tell us the “real” unemployment number is closer to 17% which includes workers that have not searched for work in the past 4 weeks as well as those seeking full time work that have taken part time jobs.

In addition the average work week was 33 hours last month. This symbolizes that manufacturing is trying to keep plants open by cutting hours instead of laying off workers. Productivity is still below expectations.

As most of you have seen, the $8,000 Tax Credit has passed Congress and The President will sign today or tomorrow. A new feature of this bill is that current homeowners – those that have owned a home 5 of the past 8 years – will get a $6,500 tax credit for purchasing a new home. Contracts need to be signed by April 30 and closed by June 30.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Amelia Island Lodging

Amelia Island visitors relax in Victorian splendor

By Robert Tolf Special to the Sun-Sentinel

When you next head north, plan to break the trip with an excursion to Amelia Island, named by a Georgia governor to honor the daughter of his sovereign, King George II. Its main settlement, Fernandina Beach, claims to be the second-oldest city in the country, after St. Augustine.

Amelia Island has flown the flags of eight different occupying powers: French, Spanish, British, American, both the Confederacy and the Union, Mexican and the Green Cross of Florida, run up the pole by a colorful, conquering Scot whose minuscule force of half a hundred was too small to out-bluff the Spanish. The Mexican banner was raised by a ragtag crew of filibusters who invaded a settlement characterized by President Monroe as a "festering fleshpot," with bars and bordellos and a busy port, terminus of Florida's first cross-state railway. The depot now serves as Chamber of Commerce and welcome center. It's the place to pick up your walking tour map of the 30-block center of town (on the National Register of Historic Places).

In the welcome center you can also pick up information on where to find the best shrimp in a town where the modern shrimping industry was invented (and where, the first weekend in May, there's a popular Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival). You can also pick up information on another island specialty -- the dozen or so bed-and-breakfasts that will ease you into aappreciation of the rich Victorian heritage.

Here are some of my favorites -- all of which have private baths, temperature control and other modern conveniences (inquire about children, pets and whether smoking is permitted):

Bailey House (28 South St.; 904-261-5390; 800-251-5390): The first of many magnificent mansions in town that were converted to B&Bs, this three-story Queen Anne is in the Historic District. It was built in 1895 for the agent of a local shipping company, who no doubt used local boat builders and ships' carpenters to carve the railings and the imposing mantelpiece emblazoned with the words "Hearth Hall, Welcome All." Of the 10 antique-furnished rooms, my favorite is the upstairs Rose Room with its distinctive bay window framed by a large turret, beautifully carved mahogany king-size bed, and a white tile bath with pedestal sink and clawfoot tub. The full breakfast is served in the formal dining room and the rates range from $99 to $150.

Amelia Island Williams House (103 S. Ninth St.; 800- 414-9257): This 1856 antebellum jewel was transformed into a B&B in 1994 by a pair who furnished the rooms -- framed by two floors of wraparound porch shaded by giant oaks -- with a world-class collection of antiques and artifacts, many from China. The drama begins in the oversize entry hall with its sweeping mahogany staircase graced by a giant crystal chandelier and caressed by stained-glass windows. Three of the eight guest rooms have working fireplaces and hand-carved mantels, and some have Jacuzzis. My favorite, the blue Chinese Room, is all cherry facing a large bay window where you can sit and marvel at the tranquillity. The full breakfast is served on antique china and sterling silver while you sit on Chippendale chairs. Rates range from $145 to $225.

Elizabeth Pointe Lodge (98 S. Fletcher Ave.; 800-772-3359): This seaside nugget of Nantucket, with its shake shingles, Dutch pitched roofs, gables and paned windows, would be at home in Cape Cod (where the Atlantic is not quite so inviting). A dozen of the 25 guest rooms have Jacuzzis and others have king-size marble tubs. All are only a few steps from the beach. The bountiful breakfasts are served buffet style, and the inn provides mini lunches. Rates are $125 to $235.

The Fairbanks House (227 S. Seventh St.; 800-261-4838): Traditionally known as "Fairbanks' Folly," this imposing two-story Italianate villa is overloaded with bays and balconies, decorative chimneys and eyebrow dormers, columned piazzas and Palladian windows, gables and porches, and a Renaissance tower with hip roof. There are 11 fireplaces and 16 rooms. The mansion, now on the National Register, was designed by the same architect who did the city's splendid St. Peter's Episcopal Church. Fairbanks was a native New Yorker -- but a major in the Confederate Army -- and a historian, newspaper editor, textbook author and then citrus grower, prospering to the point where he could afford this unique escape, which has a dozen accommodations in the main house and cottages. Full breakfasts are served on the porch overlooking the gardens or in the handsome high-ceilinged dining room. Evening social hour is a perfect time to sit in front of the fireplace, with its special tiles depicting various scenes from Aesop's Fables and Shakespeare. Rates range from $150 to $250 and there is no smoking, in the buildings or on the grounds.

Florida House Inn (20 & 22 S. Third St.; 800-258-3301): This 15-room memory bank bills itself as "the oldest continually operating inn in the state." The B&B its first guest three years before the War Between the States. Built by the Florida Railroad a few blocks from the depot/welcome center, it housed such dignitaries as the Rockefellers, President Grant and the Carnegies, who were building their own mansions across the water on Cumberland Island. But the most important visitors in recent years have been the Warners, Bob and Karen, who arrived in 1991 to do a complete makeover, modernizing the rooms and opening a cozy pub and an informal restaurant, where bountiful breakfasts are served as well as other meals -- all boardinghouse style. Rates range from $70 to $160.
Copyright © 2009, South Florida Sun-Sentinel

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, November 2, 2009

Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure

While many say that a short sale is less damaging to one’s credit than is a foreclosure, documenting that claim is another story. This writer has looked hard, but can’t find any verification from Fair Issac (the developer of the FICO scoring system) or any of the major credit providers. That is probably no surprise, because their systems are proprietary. Nonetheless, one wonders what might be the source of the claim.

On the other hand, people who apparently should know deny that there is any difference. Greta Guest of the Free Press (Freep.com) quotes John Ulzheimer, president of consumer education for Atlanta-based Credit.com. Ulzheimer spent seven years at Fair Issac. “The credit bureau sees those all as equal,” Ulzheimer said. “They are all essentially in the eyes of FICO a major delinquency.” Elizabeth Razzi wrote in the Washington Post (July 20, 2008), “A foreclosure and short sale inflict equal damage to your FICO score, according to Fair Issac…” though she provides no specific citation.

Moving on from the credit score issue, there is the question of being again eligible to buy. More precisely, it is a question of when, in the future, the defaulting borrower could get a loan that would be purchased by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. The issue is dealt with in Fannie Mae Announcement 08-16, released June 25, 2008.

When it comes to foreclosures and deeds in lieu of foreclosure, the policy distinguishes between events that were precipitated by extenuating circumstances (e.g. job loss, major illness) and those that were not (e.g. financial mismanagement). If you’ve had a foreclosure without extenuating circumstances, you can’t purchase with a Fannie Mae – backed loan for five years. However, if there were extenuating circumstances, it drops to three years. Suppose you chose the deed in lieu of foreclosure option. If there were no extenuating circumstances, the period would be four years, but with such circumstances, it drops to two. Fannie Mae doesn’t draw the distinction when it comes to short sales: the period is two years, the same as doing a deed in lieu with extenuating circumstances.

Posted from an article that I found.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

The Taste of Amelia Island

The 18th annual "The Taste of Amelia Island", a culinary fair to benefit the Nassau County Volunteer Center, will be held on Friday, November 6, 2009 at the Amelia Island Plantation Ballroom. The theme of this year's event is "Ring in the Holiday Season!" Twenty restaurants and wine purveyors will highlight their excellent cuisines and fine wines. Cocktails will be served from 6:30pm to 7pm and Taste itself will be from 7pm to 9pm. Semi-formal attire is required and convenient parking will be available.

The event will feature music, dancing and a silent auction. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at various locations on Amelia Island. For ticket information, please call 904-261-2771 or e-mail ncvcfb@aol.com. The Nassau County Volunteer Center will soon include a "PayPal" option for ticket purchase on its website www.volunteernassau.org

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Ritz Carlton - Amelia Island

On Thursday, November 19, the Ritz-Carlton at Amelia Island will host the 19th annual Beaujolais Nouveau Festival. Guests will celebrate the arrival of the wine, and have the opportunity to sample similar food items during the gala - which will be the first event held in our new Talbot Ballroom. The price is $89 per person and reservations can be made by calling (904) 277-1028. On The Morning Show Wednesday, Chef Brian McHugh will prepared a seared blue fin tuna with apple and horseradish.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Gators & Dogs

Florida - Georgia Weekend on Amelia Island
Enjoy the football game, experience Halloween on the Island and view some property while you are in town. Search for local listings at www.nassaumls.net and the call your local Realtor - John Holbrook 904-415-0171.
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty

Friday, October 23, 2009

Residence Inn - Amelia Island

I attended the grand opening of the Residence Inn on Sadler Rd in Fernandina beach last night. The Amelia Island Chamber of Commerce preformed the ribbon cutting. The event offered live music, plenty of incredible food and a tour of the rooms. The rooms were top notch with plenty of extra space. For information on the hotel go to their web site www.residenceinnameliaisland.com

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Search the local MLS

Search for homes and condos in Fernandina Beach, Yulee and Amelia Island. Great site to see properties at the Amelia Island Plantation, Summer Beach, North Hampton, Marsh Lakes, Amelia National, Flora Park, Amelia Park, Plantation Point, Harrison Cove, The Landings, RiverPlace and More!Search possibilities include new construction, resales, foreclosures and bank owned property.

www.nassaumls.net

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Bank Owned Properties - Fernandina Beach

We continue to see good buys in the bank owned or REO (real estate owned) catergory of properties in the Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach Area. Deals of the week include:
1) An approx. 3000 sq ft home in gated neighborhood for $299,000.
2) Starter home on Island for $68,000. Needs some TLC but incredible price.
3) Just Sold - 2 vacant lots at American Beach for $40,000 each.

Call or email me for a full list of properties!

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Conde Nest Rating

Amelia Island Florida has been named the #4 North American island in the 2009 Conde Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards. This is the third consecutive year Amelia Island has been ranked in the awards' Top 10 island destinations, finishing this year ahead of Hilton Head, S.C. and Sanibel, Fla. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, a 444-room beachfront, Amelia Island resort, was also named in the awards, voted #17 among Top U.S. Mainland Resorts.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, October 19, 2009

FIVE STAR: Best in Client Satisfaction Real Estate Agent Program

John Holobrook has received the 5 Star Best in Client Satisfaction Award!

This award is only given to the top 7% of Realtors who meet the selection criteria in Northeast Florida. This is the second time that Mr. Holbrook has received the award.

For each major metro market, the ratings are based on surveys sent annually to approximately 20,000 recent homebuyers and subscribers of leading city publications, and data from mortgage and title companies. Agents also receive a credential review to verify that their license is current and their record is clear of disciplinary action. Finally, agents are reviewed by a local blue ribbon panel of industry experts.

See www.fivestarprofessional.com for more info

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

FHA Cash for Keys

FHA lenders offer cash for keys


WASHINGTON – Oct. 13, 2009 – The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is giving struggling borrowers an opportunity to deed their property over to the lender in exchange for up to $2,000.

Under the Cash for Keys program, borrowers with FHA-backed loans who agree to a deed-in-lieu-of-foreclosure do not have to repay the mortgage.

To qualify, owners must face long-term financial hardship, put the house on the market at a fair price for at least 90 days, face no additional claims or liens other than the first mortgage on the house, and leave the property clean and in good condition.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Amelia Island Plantation Home


Street Scene

Sreeet Scene

View of Pool Area

View from Master Bedroom

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Caravan Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty

John's Jottings

Todays carvan was 3 properties. First property was a 3 bedroom/3 bath unit at Ketch Courtyard. Located on the Ocean and near the Surf Restaurant. Available for short term rental, great balcony with ocean views, nicely decorated interior. Priced in the low $500's. Second stop was a home on Fletcher with a wonderful backyard. It was listed by John Rogers and had a pool and hot tub as well as a separate guest studio. Third stop was Oak Bluff off Citrona. Single family home with pool, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, open floor plan, centrally located on Amelia Island.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Preserve America

FERNANDINA BEACH, FL, OCTOBER 12, 2009: The City of Fernandina Beach has officially been designated a “Preserve America” community. Preserve America is a federal program designed to encourage and support community efforts to highlight and protect cultural and natural heritage. As a Preserve America community, Fernandina Beach is eligible for grant opportunities, and will be featured on the program’s website and in National Park Service heritage tourism publications.

First Lady Michelle Obama sent a letter of designation to Mayor Susan Steger on October 7, 2009, and a formal presentation to the City Commission will be announced upon receipt of the designation certificate. Fernandina Beach is the 18th community in Florida to receive this special designation.

For more information about Preserve America, please visit the Preserve America website at www.preserveamerica.gov or contact the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation at 202-606-8503.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, October 12, 2009

High End Foreclosures

New data suggest that foreclosures are rising in more expensive housing markets.

About 30% of foreclosures in June involved homes in the top third of local housing values, up from 16% when the foreclosure crisis began three years ago, according to new data from real-estate Web site Zillow.com. The bottom one-third of housing markets, by home value, now account for 35% of foreclosures, down from 55% in 2006.

The report shows that foreclosures, after declining earlier this year, began to accelerate in the late spring and that more expensive homes have more recently accounted for a growing share of all foreclosures. "The slope of that curve in recent months is much sharper than it was recently," said Stan Humphries, chief economist for Zillow. Rising foreclosures among more-expensive homes could create added pressure for a housing market that has shown signs of stabilizing in recent months as sales of lower-priced homes pick up.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Mortgage Rates

October 8, 2009, 2009

FNMA 30 Year Fixed: 4.625% FNMA 15 Year Fixed: 4.125%
USDA / FHA / VA: 5.00%

Hello Friends, I hope that you are doing well.

Have you seen rates today? WOW!! These are the best rates we’ve seen since early spring and match historical lows. Combined with the very competitive prices we are seeing on homes this is the best time to buy a home in the past 20 years.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Jacksonville Market update

Jacksonville, FL – Demand Fades Further as Buyers See Fewer Opportunities
(5,135 single-family permits in 2008, 18th largest market in the country)
Traffic shows further signs of deterioration as first-time buyer demand slows. Buyer
traffic worsened again in September as our traffic index slipped to 27 from 30 in August, marking a worrisome pullback to levels well below agents’ expectations over the past two months after our index reached 54 in July (any reading below 50 suggests traffic below agents’ expectations). Agents cited a variety of concerns, but the primary ones were continued concerns over the weak job market and economy, a lack of quality low-priced inventory, and perhaps most importantly an apparent slowdown in first-time buyer demand.

While some agents disagreed and noted traffic is still good on low end homes, others said buyers became less interested in September as they became more concerned that if they bought a home now they would still have trouble meeting the November 30th closing deadline to receive the tax credit. We anticipate hearing more of these anecdotes in October as the closing timeframe becomes even more compressed. Prices fall further on weaker demand. Home prices remained under pressure in September, likely as a result of the weak demand, although fewer agents noted declining prices relative to last month as our price index improved to 36 from 20 in August (readings below 50 point to lower home prices over the past 30 days). In addition, agents noted higher inventories this month after indicating declining inventory over the prior two months. Our home listings index fell to 36 from 60, with readings below 50 indicating rising inventory.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Search for Homes on Amelia Island

Click here to Search the Local MLS

www.nassaumls.net

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Builder Incentives

Builders cut back on incentives

WASHINGTON – Oct. 6, 2009 – Home builders are cutting back on the freebies they’ve been tacking on new homes for the last couple of years to woo buyers.

The reason is simple: Demand is almost back in sync with supply. According to Jeffrey Laverty, analyst with research firm Oscar Gruss & Son, new-home inventory has declined from 12.4 months in January to 7.3 in August, close to the six-month mark considered standard.

While eliminating incentives like free cars and free pools, some builders are continuing to offer to pay points on mortgages and discounts on upgrades – “Incentives that make sense,” says Laura VanVelthoven, Hovnanian’s corporate vice president of marketing and sales.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Spring 2010 Golf Coference

NewswireToday - /newswire/ - San Diego, CA, United States, 10/05/2009 - “We are thrilled with the response and the continued commitment from our core attendees — golf course owners, developers and management company executives".

The Golf Inc. Conference, which recently wrapped up its three-day fall event at the La Quinta Resort, once again earned high marks from attendees.

A survey of those taking part in the conference showed that more than 96 percent of those attending said they would recommend future conferences to their peers and colleagues.

“We are thrilled with the response and the continued commitment from our core attendees — golf course owners, developers and management company executives,” said Jack Crittenden, president of Golf Inc. “Our attendance numbers were down, as expected because of the economy. But, quality stayed very high and the attendee survey shows attendees were very pleased overall.”

More than 350 people registered for the Sept. 14-16 event. Of those attending, 92 percent rated the conference as “good” or better.

The Spring 2010 Golf Inc. Conference (golfincmagazine.com) will be held April 12-14 at Amelia Island Plantation in Amelia Island, Fla. This will be the second Golf Inc. Conference at the resort, with the 2007 event receiving rave reviews from attendees and exhibitors.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, October 5, 2009

Amelia Chamber Event



Pictures from the Chamber Event at the Golf Club of Amelia Island and hosted by Nitelights.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Fernandina Real Estate Reports

Looking for a statistical report on market conditions and pricing in the Fernandina Beach, Florida area over the last 30 days? Just send me an email and I will send you out a copy of everything in the MLS that has sold, been listed or under contract. You custom pick the report and I will email it out to you.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Addison Inn

Places to Stay - Addison Inn - Amelia Island!

Listed below are some Best of BedandBreakfast.com Award winners. For a complete list of winners, including regional, Canadian and international awards, visit http://ping.fm/vLEFp and click on the WINNERS 2009-2010 badge on the left. The Best of BedandBreakfast.com Award winners are not ranked numerically and are listed alphabetically by state or country within each category. Theme categories reflect prevalent comments from each winner's reviews.

Top 10 Overall in the United States

The J. Patrick House, Cambria, CA
Napa Old World Inn, Napa, CA
Addison on Amelia, Fernandina Beach, FL
Americus Garden Inn, Americus, GA
The Queen Anne B&B, Natchitoches, LA
Sobotta Manor Bed and Breakfast, Mount Airy, NC
Pilot Knob B&B, Pilot Mountain, NC
Barn Inn, Millersburg, OH
Inn Above Onion Creek, Kyle, TX
Rabbit Hill Inn, Lower Waterford, VT

John Holbrook - Realtor
Amelia Island, FL 32034
904-415-0171

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Jacksonville Real Estate

Bank-Owned, Short Sales Bolster Gains

While Jacksonville home sales have been back on the rise this year, new data suggests that almost 50 percent were bank-owned foreclosure sales or short sales, in which the properties were sold for less than their owners owed on their mortgages. Jacksonville-based Lender Processing Services Inc. released data earlier this month showing the impact of bank-owned sales - commonly referred to as real-estate owned or REO sales - on overall sales in each state. Florida's percentage was 35 percent, in line with Duval County, which was 37 percent.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Micah's Fundraiser

Hello Everyone,

Most of you have heard by now (but in case you haven't) Chili's Restaurant in Yulee is hosting a Family Fun Night for Micah's Place which will be heldon Tuesday, October 6th from 5 - 10 p.m. Chili's will donate 10% ofpurchases made between those hours to Micah's Place, so it is a very nicefundraising opportunity for us. More importantly, it gives us theopportunity to bring awareness to the community that October is DomesticViolence Awareness Month (DVAM). We will have tables set up with lots ofinformation about our services, and staff and volunteers will be there togreet our guests and answer questions. The Fernandina Pirates will bejoining us with their pirate ship float, and we will also have clowns toentertain the children with balloons, face art and giveaways. In order to receive the 10% donation, a special coupon must be presentedwhen paying your bill, and our workers will be there to make sure everypatron receives one. Please join us to show your support of Micah's Placeand the families you are helping to support. And please share thisinvitation with family, friends and neighbors. This is a very simple way tohelp those who need our services, and it is sure to be a truly enjoyabletime for all. If you have any questions, please let me know. Thank you in advance foryour generous support. We look forward to seeing you there!

Ruth Zellers Human Resources / Volunteer Coordinator
Micah's Place, Inc.904-491-6364

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Sounds on Center Jazz Concert

Friday, October 2nd 2009 6:00-9:00pm

Sounds on Centre presented by the Historic Fernandina Business Association will cap the 2009 event series with a special three-hour New Orleans style Second Line Jazz and Dixieland Street Celebration. The musical entertainment will feature world renowned jazz musician/drummer, Les DeMerle and a 6 piece, All-Star cast including Bonnie Eisele. In addition, TGIF, a 7-piece Dixieland band will perform with DeMerle and his all stars.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Lofton Creek Dock Solution Sought

Looking at marshfront or tridal creek homes? Keep this mind. The state Department of Environmental Protection has agreed to suspend penalties until June 2010 for non-compliant docks in an aquatic preserve in the Lofton Creek area in the hope that a legislative fix can be achieved in the 2010 session.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

95352 Douglas Rd

I will be showing this home today. Needs some work but is priced at $119,900. Great for a handy man who is looking for a location close to the Amelia River and public boat ramp. Currently bank owned and being sold "as is". Call me about this home and other bank owned or REO properties in the Yulee area.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, September 28, 2009

Click Here for Real Estate Search

Property search for Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee.
www.nassaumls.net

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

JP Morgan & Chase

Trying to get a deal done at North Hampton involving a property that is held by Chase & JP Morgan. Communication has taken several months and they are now telling me that the property will be moved to the REO department if a contract for $310,000 is not in hand October 5th, 2009. For more details on this great buy call me:

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Salt - Amelia Island Ritz Carlton

9/24: Salt Signature Wine Dinner at Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island
written by craig 23 September 2009
Salt, the grill at the Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island will be hosting an evening with wine specialists, who will share their knowledge on Spanish wines while Chef de Cuisine Richard Gras prepares a four-course menu to compliment. Dinner is at 6pm, and tickets are $115 per person, plus taxes and gratuity. Call 904-277-1028 for reservations.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Amelia Island Jazz Festival

Amelia Island Jazz Festival

Amelia Island Jazz Festival 20090
Les DeMerle Amelia Island Jazz Festival is scheduled from October 2 – 11, 2009 in Fernandina Beach, Florida. This is one of the most popular festivals in Fernandina Beach, and this year’s festival promises to be one of the best ever.

The festival kicks off early this year with a free concert outdoors. Les deMerle All-Star Band will perform at the Sound of Centre already on Friday October 2nd. This is the last and final Sound on Centre for the season, so let’s hope for beautiful weather.

Then on Saturday, October 3rd, “Street.Runnin’ Wild,” with Amelia Island Jazz Festival Scholarship winner Jawren Walton performs at the Palace Saloon.

The second free concert will feature the U.S. Navy Big Band Southeast at Amelia Park on Sunday, October 4.

Grammy Award-winning saxophonist, David Sanborn is scheduled to appear as the headliner in the festival. Sanborn will perform October 9th and 10th with Les DeMerle’s All-Star band and vocalist Bonnie Eisele. This concert takes place at the brand new 1,000-seat auditorium at First Baptist Church on Eighth Street.

One of last year’s most popular evenings, Latin Night with Impacto Latino, will return on Thursday, October 8, and then on Sunday, October 11, there is a New Orleans Jazz Brunch at the Beech Street Grill

John Holbrook - Amelia Island Realtor
904-415-0171

Amelia Island Beach Erosion

Amelia Island Beach Erosion

Because of federal and state budget shortfalls, an $11 million Duval County beach restoration project that had been planned for next year has been cancelled.

Now the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which oversees restoration of the area's beaches every five years, is seeking funding for 2011, said agency spokesman Barry Vorse.

The program is intended keep beaches at a sufficient width and elevation to reduce storm damage to oceanfront buildings and other structures, and to sustain tourism.

Meanwhile, no beach renourishment project is planned for Ponte Vedra Beach, Vorse said.

However, a replenishment study has begun for projects in Vilano Beach, Anastasia Island and Summer Haven, and public hearings will be scheduled in late 2010 to discuss them, he said. In addition, beach renourishment is planned next year around the St. Augustine fishing pier to replenish sand that has washed away since a 2005 restoration.

Vorse said Jacksonville's beaches are in "better than average shape" based on an assessment done in June and July, especially since it's at the end of the latest five-year restoration cycle.

That's due to the lack of storm damage since the last project in 2005, when contractors widened the beach from the Mayport jetties south to the St. Johns County line with about 700,000 cubic yards of soft, white sand from an offshore site. That project cost about $6.5 million and included some "sacrificial sand" added as a protective buffer until the next beach restoration project.

But hurricane season doesn't end until Nov. 30, and northeast winter storms sometimes cause more beach erosion than hurricanes.

The 2010 project was expected to cost roughly $11 million, according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which shares the cost with the corps and Jacksonville. The corps was to contribute about $6.8 million and Florida and Jacksonville were each supposed to give about $2 million.

Jacksonville has set aside its share of the contribution, which it's required to do by ordinance, said Tom Heal, an engineer in the city's Public Works Department who handles beach renourishment.

"We were positioning ourselves to do it again in 2010," Heal said.

But he learned in a meeting with corps officials last month that the federal funding wasn't available.

He was also upbeat about the beach's profile, saying wave action has swept some of the 2005 sand to a sandbar just offshore.

"That sand is still there and still functioning to protect the shore," he said.

The expanse of beach hasn't eroded, although it may appear that way because the sand dunes have grown taller and wider and expanded eastward, he said.

"The water line is pretty much where it was before," Heal said.

The subject came up in a conference Friday at Amelia Island hosted by the Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association, where Al Pantano, commander of the corps' Jacksonville district, explained how the shore protection program reduces storm damage and the need for federal relief money following a significant storm.

On average, for every $1 of tax money spent on federally restored beaches, $4 is saved in reduced damages to homes, businesses and the government, Pantano said. In addition, he said, the government earns about $320 in tax revenues for every $1 spent on beach nourishment.

John Holbrook - Realtor
904-415-0171

Amelia Island Plantation Golf Course

Amelia Island Plantation Golf Course

We learned the news within a week's time and the golf community here, loaded with good people, has lost two of the best. Of course one will still be around and we hope one comes back in the future. But for now, it's our loss, ranging from local events to the richest tournament in golf.

Henry Hughes announced his retirement from the PGA Tour, after 25 years of service that included Tour business affairs, marketing, Championship Management and the operation of The Players Championship and the Senior Players. Also, Robert Dugger will be moving back to his native Fort Worth, Texas, after nine years as director of golf at the Amelia Island Plantation. Dugger also served as the head pro at the TPC Sawgrass.

Hughes helped run The Players in two eras, in the 1980s when it became the Tour's marquee event and in the past couple of years, assisting in the transition of the event to May. Hughes was always a steady hand and a cool head, and the good news is that he and his wife Patty will maintain a home in Ponte Vedra after he retires next July.

The circumstances involving Dugger are a little tougher, and have everything to do with the economy. His position at AIP was eliminated, with the pros at the four courses there answering now to the general manager of the property. He embodied all that goes into the makeup of a good club professional -- including integrity.

I'm always going to remember the day in the Cup Matches when his opponent, Alan Henderson, was lining up a 50-foot putt at the 18th green at Timuquana, and Dugger quietly reminded Henderson's caddie that it might be a good idea if he tended the flagstick. Henderson made the putt to win the match and give the Amateurs a half-point victory. As I wrote at the time, Henderson won heroically and Dugger lost honorably.

We know we'll see Henry Hughes around town after he retires. Here's hoping Robert Dugger finds a way to get back here another day.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Amelia Business Network

Yesterday's Amelia Business Network meeting offered a full 90 minutes of action. Topic of the day was successful sales people and traits that define them. As a group we found the importance of being truthful, knowing the benefits of your product, treating customers with excitement and making them feel important. Negatives included: putting the sale ahead of the client, not returning messages, poor follow up, bad support staff and rushing your delivery.

We also spoke about the importance of recording our group referrals and keeping business within the community. Club 14 Fitness was a new guest and spoke about their gym/facility on Amelia Island and Cross Fit training programs.

Lunch was provided by the new chefs at Wicked Davy's Saloon in downtown Fernandina Beach. The Chocolate Chip cookies were incredible!

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Amelia Business Network

Yesterday's Amelia Business Network meeting offered a full 90 minutes of action. Topic of the day was successful sales people and traits that define them. As a group we found the importance of being truthful, knowing the benJohn Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, September 21, 2009

Blog Listing

blog search directory

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Top Ten Blog Award

Blog directory

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, Florida
Cell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Local Property Search

Homes, Condos and vacant lots In Fernandina beach, Yulee & Amelia Island!

www.nassaumls.net

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Florida 904-415-0171

Intracoastal Wine Shop

Looking for a great date spot where you can enjoy a bottle of wine in downtown Fernandina Beach? Michele and I recently went to the Intracoastal Wine Shop in historic Downtown Fernandina Beach. They have a wide selection of whites, reds and champagnes. We selected a California cabernet to test out and it was wonderful. The owners are very helpful and prices are fantastic.

John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island Florida 904-415-0171

The Green Turtle



The Green Turtle in downtown Fernandina Beach is a great spot to stop and have a beer or glass of wine. You can relax on the wrap around porch and enjoy yourself. The staff is friendly and the bar food is delicious. Music on the weekends and plenty of local flair. Let me know if you're in town and we'll have a drink!

John Holbrook - Realtor 904-415-0171

Friday, September 18, 2009

Amelia Walk

Woodside Homes is the main builder at Amelia Walk which is located just south of A1A on the Amelia Concourse in Fernandina Beach. The first phase of homes has 141 homesites within the neighborhoods of Laurel Park, Cherry Creek, Champlain and Berryessa. Future neighborhoods will offer an additional 608 sites, including some with marsh views alonf Lofton Creek.

Amelia Walk features an impressive Resident's Club which will have enough space for community wide functions, a zero entry swimming pool, covered pavillion, tennis courts, fitness and entertainment rooms, playground, recreational fields and pedestrian trails.

The homes of Amelia Walk encompass a low country feel. Lush, beautiful landscaping of Magnolia trees and live Oaks surround the public areas and line the main street of Majestic Walk Blvd. Prices start around $200k and offer a great per square foot value.

Call me for a community tour and full pricing.

John Holbrook - Realtor 904-415-0171. www.nassaumls.net

Kings Bay

PCS <br />America - Your Number One Military Relocation Network
Click here to visit PCS America


John Holbrook - Realtor
Search the local MLS - CLICK HERE
Amelia island, Yulee, Fernandina Beach - Florida, 32034
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Amelia Green Condominiums

Amelia Green is a small private enclave of 41 condominium townhouses in the heart of Amelia Island, Florida. It's 3/4 mile to the beach, 3 miles to downtown, and a short stroll to the post office, YMCA and shopping.

Amelia Green is the creation of Finlay Properties. Amelia Green offers upscale amenities, attached garages, 10 foot ceilings, fireplaces, granite and travertine finishes and more.

The units are 1700 to 2066 square feet plus attached private garage and patio. Variety of floor plans from 2 bedroom, 2.5 baths and loft to 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and loft. Master bedrooms are on the first floor. Exterior maitenance is provided by the association.

Contact John Holbrook - Realtor for information 904-415-0171

Greetings from Amelia Island



Hello,

Nassau County Florida, more specifically Fernandina Beach and Amelia Island have quickly become a featured stop for people who are looking to relocate to Northeast Florida. If you are searching for a home, condo or vacant lot in the area, here are a couple of quick reference sites that I refer clients to who are looking for additional information.

Nassau County MLS – Search all MLS properties on one site.
www.nassaumls.net

Read the Community Paper on-line.
www.fbnewsleader.com

Current events and activities presented by the Chamber of Commerce.
www.islandchamber.com

If I can be of any more assistance (area maps, real estate listings, local knowledge etc.) please let me know and thanks for visiting our web site.

John Holbrook - Realtor, Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty Email: holbrook66@msn.com
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee, Hilliard & Callahan Cell 904-415-0171

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Florida Real Estate

TODAY'S TOP STORIES
Fla. homeowners don't need State Farm
The state insurance commissioner says that smaller insurers have sufficient capacity to take on most of the orphan policies.


Developers prepare for Hometown Democracy
Builders are trying to change local comprehensive plans now in case voters approve Amendment 4 in 2010.


IRS to ease commercial mortgage refinancing
New rules would allow certain types of loans to be refinanced without triggering tax penalties for investors.


Bernanke says recession 'very likely over'
But the Fed chair warned a weak economy will linger, and the unemployment rate, now at 9.7%, will keep rising.


Credit crunch deters international homebuyers
NAR's 2009 study finds a decline in interest for U.S. properties thanks to the credit crunch and a worldwide recession.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Real Estate Blogs

http://www.real-estate-blogs.com

http://www.real-estate-blogs.com

Real Estate Blogs Directory
- Directory of real estate blogs and blogs of industries affiliated with and
serving the real estate industry.

Succesful Short Sales

10 Steps to a Successful Short Sale

1) Have a name and contact number at your mortgager.
2) Provide your bank with a proven hardship letter.
3) Make regular downward price adjustments to your list price.
4) Get any offer!
5) Submit offer, listing agreement, listing history and HUD statement.
6) Bank performs a Broker Price Opinion to determine value.
7) Confirm that there is a debt forgiveness with no judgements.
8) Be ready to wait, must have patience.
9) Keep the buyer fully informed.
10) Work with a qualified closing agent and title company.

Provided by John Holbrook - Realtor
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee Florida 32034
904-415-0171
holbrook66@msn.com
www.nassaumls.net

Monday, September 14, 2009

Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty

UF economist: Real estate recovery has begun

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Sept. 14, 2009 – Speaking to real estate executives on Friday, UF research economist David Denslow predicts even better times soon as the baby boomers retire.

The comments came during the University of Florida Center for Real Estate Studies’ annual Real Estate Trends and Strategies Conference. In addition to Realtors and property managers, attendees included bankers, investors and other industry professionals.

According to Denslow, the U.S. is headed for a rebound, in part, because other nations invested in relatively-secure U.S. treasuries. However, he also issued a warning: That won’t happen the next time unless the U.S. gets a handle on the national debt.

Search the Amelia Island MLS www.nassaumls.net

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Property Highlights Fernandina Beach

John's Jottings - I was able to view about 8 homes on Saturday morning in the $200,000 to $300,000 price range in the Fernandina Beach area. We started our tour on the south end of Amelia Island and saw a home on Persimmon Circle. It had a small rear yard but was close to the beach. There were 2 fireplaces and an open livingroom. Stop #2 was Caymen Circle. A really nice home with 14 foot ceilings and black granite counter tops in the kitchen. The property was on almost an acre with a small pond in the rear portion of the property. The entrance Caymen circle is off Nassauville Road (CR 107) next to the new boys and girls Club facility. Stop #3 was Theron Court off Barnwell Road (head north from the Lowe's on A1A). The house was on a nice corner lot and had good curb appeal. It looked like it was custom built and had some unique design approaches. Stop #4 was in Spanish Oaks, a small neighborhood off Barnwell with public water and septic. I had been in this home several months ago and it definately looked better than before. New carpets and fresh paint make quite a difference. Stop #5 was North Hampton. The Eastport home is in great shape and has 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. Located on the golf course and featuring a large screened lania. It was the top pick of the day. Stop #6 was Amelia National. The home on Sunflower had lots to offer and the community clubhouse and pool were great benefits. There are multiple short sales in this community and some interesting value priced homes. The home we say was an American Home product and in fantastic shape. The tour ended at stop #7 in Flora Park. A large residential community built by Seda Homes with limited amenities but good value.

If you would like a personal tour, please call me anytime. John Holbrook - Realtor
904-415-0171

Amelia Island Plantation Home

Drove by the Marsh Creek site at the Amelia Island Plantation on Friday and saw some good progress. The lot has been cleared and the footers are in. Dave Turner's guys were working on laying the plumbing pipes. The slab for the foundation should be put in next week. The lot is on the west side of the Plantation property and around the corner from the golf course club house. There is a body of water on the rear of the lot and great existing underbrush for landscaping. The house is an upscale low country design with screened rear lania and pool. The architect is Randy Rice and the builder is Brylen Homes. Sales agent was John Holbrook fromPrudential Chaplin Williams Realty.

Search Amelia Island Plantations homes www.nassaumls.net

Friday, September 11, 2009

August Numbers Real Estate Sales - Nassau County

Nassau County approx. total MLS active listings are 1962 units.

August 2009 MLS sales are 42 units (32 residential, 6 condos, 4 vacant lots).

Average list price is $321k and average sale price was $290k with a total sales number of 9.3 million.

Eye catchers are a relatively new home in Hickory Village for $155,000 and a home on the Amelia Island Plantation for $1.1 million.

Email me for an expanded activity report. holbrook66@msn.com
www.nassaumls.net

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Jacksonville Report

Jacksonville, FL – Traffic Slips on Employment
Concerns, But First Time Buyers Are Active.

(5,135 single-family permits in 2008, 18th largest market in the country)

Traffic off slightly, but potentially a seasonal issue. Buyer traffic worsened in August, with traffic falling below the agents’ expectations for this time of year, with our traffic index dropping to 30 from 54 in July (any reading below 50 suggests traffic below agents’ expectations). Agents who saw weaker-than-expected traffic noted buyer concerns about the economy and trouble with lending. For those seeing better traffic levels, there was consistent mention of the affordability resulting from the low prices and mortgage rates. These buyers are looking for bargains and attempting to take advantage of the first-time buyer tax credit.

We also heard “pent-up demand” mentioned by many agents, as some buyers seem to have the view that it is once again safe to purchase a home. Because of the lingering concern, though, buyers are looking for deals and are cautious about making a purchase unless they are convinced of the bargain. We expect that the tax credit for first time homebuyers will lead to more traffic in September, as buyers must soon put homes into contract in order to close by November 30th.

Search the local MLS

Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach and Yulee property Search.

Click here to start your search

John Holbrook - Realtor
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
904-415-0171

Amelia Lakes Short Sale

Under contract and awaiting bank approval. 1 bedroom unit with great view of the lake at Amelia Lakes in Fernandina Beach. Community pool, volleyball court, workout room, tennis courts, car cleaning station and more.

John Holbrook - Realtor
www.nassaumls.net

Richmond American - Woodbridge

Just placed a home under contract in the Village I & II section of Woodbridge. Approx. 1700 square feet of living space on a pond with 4 bedrooms and 2 baths for $168,000. Great incentive package offered by the builder. Contact John Holbrook - Realtor to see this community. 904-415-0171

Bargains in Amelia National

Amelia National

Golf course community in Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034. Just showed three house in this community last night and there are bargains to be had. Good amount of short sale inventory. Prices from $235,000 to $350,000 will buy a almost new home with 2500 to 3200 square feet of living space.

Email me for a detailed list holbrook66@msn.com
John Holbrook - Realtor 904-415-0171

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Ritz Carlton Amelia Island

Two special offers received by email -

Spa treatments - two 25-minute treatments for $100

Resort Reconnect package - starting at $249/ night including breakfast and a $40 resort credit.

Come on down for a trip and we'll look at some Real Estate at the same time. John Holbrook - Realtor 904-415-0171. www.nassaumls.net

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Micah's Place

Micah's Place
904.491.6364 www.micahsplace.org


A new cookbook is coming: A Savory Place, culinary favorites of Amelia Island. This fund raiser for Micah's Place includes 170 recipes and is also a picture book with photographs by acclaimed photographer Max Hertweck. Advanced sales now: $24.95 online at www.micahsplace.org.

Looking forward to trying out some recipes. John Holbrook - Realtor

Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Amelia Island Jazz Festival

2009 Amelia Island Jazz Festival

The 2009 Les DeMerle Amelia Island Jazz Festival kicks off October 4 with a free Jazz concert featuring a 19 piece United States Navy Big Band. Bring a blanket to cozy-up at Amelia Park Town Square and enjoy a Big Band blast in the warm Amelia air. Never one to sit out a good party, the Historic Palace Saloon is hosting a Latin Jazz concert on October 8 at 7 p.m., where guests will dance to a sizzling salsa band. On Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10, the legendary David Sanborn and the famous Dynamic Les DeMerle Band will perform in the headline concert at the First Baptist Church. Attendees of the concert are invited to attend a Jazz Jam session following the performance, featuring a jazz trio at the Church’s Hall. The music festival concludes on Sunday with a Dixieland Jazz Brunch at the Beech Street Grill in downtown Fernandina.

Tickets and a full schedule of events are available at www.ameliaislandjazzfestival.com

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Short Sale - Pirate's Wood, Yulee Florida

97106 Cutlass Way.
All the things on your wish list. Gleaming wood lamintae floors, stainless steel appliances, bitcher block island in kitchen, tray ceilings, crown molding, custom closet built ins, jetted master tub, split floor plan, designer light fixtures, large fenced back yard, community boat launch, great location.

Priced at $249,900. MLS 49687. Call John Holbrook - Realtor 904-415-0171 to view or go to www.nassaumls.net and type in MLS number.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Banks Rates Amelia Island

From the Desk of Alan Vanderhieden - Regions Bank, Amelia Island.

August 28, 2009

FNMA 30 Year Fixed: 5.00%
FNMA 15 Year Fixed: 4.375%
USDA / FHA / VA: 5.00%

Hello Friends,

I hope that you are doing well.

As you can see, rates continue to be strong and as far as I can see, there in nothing yet on the horizon to change this trend.

Jobless claims yesterday came in @ 570,000….a bit higher than expected. After a couple months of better than expected claims it seems we may be turning in the other direction. A healthy job market is one of the important elements to the economic recovery and it’s not happening yet.

The first time homebuyer market continues to be hot. Here are just a few of the products that I am using for these customers.

FHA. 96.5% financing. Competitive rates. Down payment and closing costs can come from a gift. Seller can pay up to 6% closing costs. Condos allowed.

VA. 100% financing allowed. Competitive rates. No monthly mortgage insurance. Seller can pay up to 6% in closing costs.

USDA. (Rural Housing) 100% financing allowed. No limit to seller paid closing cost (have to be reasonable however) Competitive rates. No monthly mortgage insurance. We do have income limits based on family size.

Flex 97. This is a Fannie Mae product. 97% financing. Fannie Mae rates. Seller paid closing costs. This does have monthly mortgage insurance.

Thanks to Alan - John Holbrook, Realtor Amelia Island

Short Sale North Hampton


Great chance to get a short sale at North hampton in Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034.

Currently listed at $340,000 and looking at all offers.

John Holbrook - Realtor
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
904-415-0171

Amelia Island Plantation

8/28/09
There are 130 active MLS listings at the Amelia Island Plantation. MLS listings are offered by co-operating brokers. They include condos, homes and vacant lots.
Here is a link to the full list. Just click area #6 when you get to the map.

www.nassaumls.net

Thanks,
John Holbrook - Realtor
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
904-415-0171

Thursday, August 27, 2009

ICI Scratch and Save Promotion

The ICI Scratch and Play Promotion is in full swing and I have tickets! Call me for a personal tour of one of the remaining inventory homes at North Hampton. Prizes include weekend getaways, kitchen packages, and keep an eye out for the $100,000 grand savings prize on a new home.

John Holbrook 904-415-0171 Realtor Amelia Island & Fernandina Beach Florida.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Amelia Business Network - We had our monthly meeting this afternoon at the Golf Club of Amelia Island. Thanks to our hosts for providing a great meal and beautiful setting. Our guest speaker spoke about the upcoming Iron Man triathalon on Amelia Island. They are looking for contestants as well as volunteers for the event which takes place at Main Beach on Amelia Island. Find info at www.islandchamber.com

I wanted to highlight some interesting networking partners who were at the meeting today. Red Bones Bakery specializes in healthy dog treats and is located on 8th Street. They just celebrated their 10th anniversary. I often stop in to pick up unique dog treats and custom gift items for friends with dogs. Their annual dog parade takes place in December and usually has a great turn out of furry friend.

Another interesting story at the meeting was that Laurel and Hardy once stayed at The Florida House Inn on 4th Street in downtown Fernandina Beach. The Amelia Island Film Festival will celebrate this fact by incorporating it into their fall event, comedy shorts and dinner at the Florida House Inn.

Thanks to all those who attended.
John Holbrook - Realtor

John Holbrook

John's Jottings - Saw 7 properties on caravan this morning. Some of the highlights included homes in Blackrock Hammock, North Hampton, Amelia Walk, Meadowfield Bluff, Amelia National and Amelia Lakes. Market seems to be increasingly affected by short sales and preforeclosures as two of the homes represented that category.

Some-one recently told me that 42% of homes in Northeast Florida are upside down. I find this statistic surprising but realize that most anything that was purchased in the last 4 years would fall into that catergory.

I have shown several properties on the Amelia Island Plantation this past week and am always pleased by the high standards that the grounds crew and landscapers keep.

I am constantly searching all of Nassau County for the best values and bank owned properties so email me to get on the inside email list at holbrook66@msn.com

Thanks for reading and stay posted. John Holbrook - Realtor 904-415-0171
City favors parking over bicycles on Atlantic Ave.

By Angela Daughtry, News-Leader



Fernandina Beach Commissioners agreed Tuesday that parking spaces should not be removed along Atlantic Avenue for a proposed island bicycle trail.

Instead, the street should be designated a "shared-road segment" of the trail for both bicycles and cars, commissioners told representatives of the Florida Department of Transportation and Amelia Island Trail team.

Mayor Susan Steger said the consensus to keep parking on Atlantic Avenue "in no way reflects that the trail system doesn't need our support," but she said at least one house on Atlantic would have "serious problems" if there was no parking on the street.

The Amelia Island Trail is being created to provide pedestrian-friendly modes of transportation on the island. Phase I of the project uses existing roads and sidewalks, trails, the Fort Clinch State Park trail system and a ferry service to provide 48.6 miles of paths in 2010-11.

Planners have designated $2.5 million in federal funding to provide at least five miles of off-road trails and other improvements in 2014 to link the trail from the south end of the island to the city marina downtown.

It would course along South Fletcher Avenue, requiring the removal of some mailboxes on that street, and continue east along Atlantic Avenue to downtown.

Thanks - John Holbrook - Realtor www.nassaumls.net

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Amelia Island Florida - John Holbrook will be in North hampton today showing the remaining three ICI Homes and preparing for their scratch and save promotion. It's a great chance to get some extra discounts on already reduced inventory. John is a Realtor with Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty.

These homes start at $300,000 and include the membership to the North Hampton Golf Course. Other community activities include the tennis courts, basketball court and Lofton Creek Outpost.

Call 904-415-0171 for information. Thanks

Friday, August 21, 2009

SOURCE: Amelia Island Convention & Visitor's Bureau
Aug 20, 2009 08:30 ETMilitary Gets Special "Seaside Salute" on Florida's Amelia Island
Savings of up to 40 Percent for Military Personnel
Highlighted Links


Seaside Salute

Amelia IslandAMELIA ISLAND, FL--(Marketwire - August 20, 2009) - Active duty, reserve and retired members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families can now take advantage of savings of up to 40 percent through a special Seaside Salute* on Amelia Island Florida. Voted one of the Top 10 North American Islands in Conde Nast Traveler's "Reader's Choice Awards" for two consecutive years, Amelia Island is an ideal location for a welcome home celebration, Florida beach vacation or family getaway. Thirteen of the island's award-winning accommodations are offering an arsenal of military special offers and discounts. Specific details are listed at http://ping.fm/Dd5yh Participating properties include:


-- The Addison on Amelia Island (14-room boutique inn) - 15 percent off
for Active Duty Military
-- Amelia Hotel at the Beach (family-owned, oceanview hotel) - $69 rate
-- Amelia Island Plantation (1,350-acre beach resort) - $119 rate
-- The Amelia Island Williams House (southern Victorian inn) - 10 percent
off
-- Beachside Motel Inn (the island's only oceanfront motel) - 10 percent
off
-- Comfort Suites - Only steps from Main Beach - $79 rate
-- Elizabeth Point Lodge (one of 50 great beach resorts by Travel +
Leisure) - 15 percent off
-- Hampton Inn Amelia Island (one block from the beach) - $89 rate
-- Hampton Inn & Suites Amelia Island (Fernandina Beach historic harbor-
front hotel) - $84 rate
-- The Hoyt House (1905 bed and breakfast) - 10 percent off; 15 percent
off for Vietnam Veterans
-- Residence Inn Amelia Island (area's newest hotel) - $79 rate for one-
bedroom suite
-- The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island (AAA Four-Diamond luxury resort) -
$129 rate
-- Summer Beach Resort (condominium accommodations with resort amenities) -
20 percent off
Offering an irresistible mix of quiet beaches, natural beauty, championship golf, and unique history, Amelia is unlike any other Florida destination. The island is also home to Fernandina Beach, FL, once a vibrant Victorian seaport village, and now a charming downtown district of eclectic shops, attractions, and eateries.

-Amelia Island Convention & Visitor's Bureau-

* Advance reservations are required. Military ID must be presented at time of check-in. Some blackout dates or other restrictions may apply. Rates shown do not include applicable taxes. Offer may not be combined with any other offer, promotion, or package. Check with individual property for specific terms and conditions.

PS Visit your Realtor while in town. John Holbrook 904-415-0171 Prudential Chqaplin Williams Realty

Thursday, August 20, 2009