Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Jacksonville Homebuyer Magazine

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 


Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Housing Projections




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

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Jacksonville Area Real Estate Report

Jacksonville, FL – Prices Fall, and Deals Bring Some Buyers Back in the Door(3,320 single-family permits in 2009, 23rd largest market in the country)

Buyers tire of waiting, start to act on low rates and prices. Our buyer traffic index
rebounded to 25 in November from 9 in October, indicating modestly better traffic over the past 30 days. This still suggests demand remains weak (readings below 50 indicate traffic below agents’ expectations), but is at least a little encouraging that it is the highest reading since May. Agents said buyers are still fearful and lack confidence, and are taking a long time to act. However, several mentioned that some buyers are tired of waiting and ready to purchase. One agent who saw better traffic noted, “These buyers have been searching for quite some time.” Another commented that “low interest rates and price reductions” have brought buyers off of the sidelines. There was no mention of the foreclosure issues this month, but a speedy resolution would likely help sales as buyers remain focused on finding the best perceived value, which they typically see as foreclosures and short sales.
John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, FloridaCell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Monday, December 6, 2010

Housing Numbers

>> Market Update
INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE Last Thursday the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported Pending Home Sales for October UP 10.4% over the month before. This index is a measure of signed purchase contracts, which bodes well for Existing Home Sales a couple of months out. The NAR's chief economist commented, "It is welcoming to see a solid double-digit percentage gain, but activity needs to improve further to reach healthy, sustainable levels. The housing market clearly is in a recovery phase and will be uneven at times, but the improving job market and consequential boost to household formation will help the recovery process going into 2011."

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

National Foreclosure Stats

Foreclosure Inventory
The servicer has referred the loan to an attorney for foreclosure. Loans remain in foreclosure inventory from referral to sale.

Inventory is continuing to rise rather dramatically – up 7.1% since June – and up 5.2% from the same time last year. This is not good news as this inventory will be placed on the market in coming months at discounted prices. That will put downward pressure on all housing values. Inventories are 7.4 times historical averages and continuing to rise.

The two greatest percentage increases in foreclosure inventories since 2008 come from jumbo prime and prime mortgages.

The movement of foreclosed inventory to REO (foreclosed properties on the market) dropped dramatically in October. The monthly decrease could be explained by the moratorium put into effect by some banks because of the robo-signing challenge.

Foreclosure Starts
Any active loan that was not in foreclosure in the prior month that moves into foreclosure inventory in the current month.

There were 263, 251 foreclosures started last month. This is down 4.4% from the previous month but up 2.9% from last year’s numbers. The monthly decrease could be explained by the moratorium put into effect by some banks because of the robo-signing challenge.

Loans NOT Yet in Foreclosure
The percentage of loans not yet in foreclosure that has not had a payment made in over six months.

27.2% of loans 6 months behind are still NOT in foreclosure
21.1% of loans 12 months behind are still NOT in foreclosure
19.2% of loans 18 months behind are still NOT in foreclosure
18.3% of loans 24 months behind are still NOT in foreclosure

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

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

National Market Report

Market Update
INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE  Last week was short, but still managed to squeeze in two reports on our favorite topic. Wednesday's New Home Sales for October were down 8.1% from the month before, at an annual rate of 283,000. A slight upward move in these numbers had been forecast. The inventory of new homes edged up to 8.6 months, higher than the 6 month's supply level everyone would like to see.

But Tuesday, October Existing Home Sales came in with a way smaller decline – down just 2.2% from September
and in line with expectations. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported the annual sales rate at 4.43 million homes. Actual sales, year to date, are 4.15 million, down 2.9% from the same period a year ago. The NAR's chief economist feels that sales activity appears to be "off the bottom and attempting to settle into normal, sustainable levels." He expects steady improvement to levels "above 5 million by spring of next year." The median existing home price edged down a little to $170,500 and is down only 0.9% from a year ago. The months' supply of existing homes dipped to 10.5 from September's 10.6 reading, as inventories declined overall.

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com

Friday, November 19, 2010

Veteran Tax Credit

There Is Still a Tax Credit Available!

by Dean Hartman on November 18, 2010 · 6 comments

in For Buyers

As Veteran’s Day passed last week, I forgot to remind everyone to thank those who have served our country AND to remind everyone out there in the blogosphere that eligible Veterans are still able to take advantage of the Federal Tax Credits that expired for the rest of the population a few months back.
Yes, eligible First Time Home Buying Veterans only need to be in contract by April 30, 2011 and close by June 30, 2011 to receive the  up to $8000 tax credit on their income tax return.
And yes, eligible Repeat Home Buying Veterans can receive the up to $6500 credit.


John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com

 

Home Sale Figures

There is no doubt that demand for housing has slowed. The National Association of Realtor’s 3rd Quarter Existing Homes Sales Report showed that sales were down in all fifty states and the District of Columbia (3rd quarter vs. the 2nd quarter). The decline was in double digits in all but two states (Nevada and California). Those are the facts.
But let us not allow the facts to get in the way of the truth. The truth is that over 4 million homes will have sold in this country by the end of the year.
That averages out to be over 10,000 houses a day! Every day – 365 days a year!

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com

 


Village Lane in Marsh Lakes

4590 VILLAGE DRIVE
$279,000
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1886 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 1993
Lot size is 0.127 acres

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 


Oceanview on Fletcher

2193 FLETCHER AVENUE
$349,000
Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island, FL 32034
3 Bedrooms | 1 Baths | 1048 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 1941
Lot size is 0.19 acres

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 


Amelia Park Community

1885 GARDENIA STREET
$390,000
Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island, FL 32034
3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1824 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 2001
Lot size is 0.13 acres

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 


North Ocean Oaks - Fernandina Beach

2741 OCEAN OAKS DRIVE
$599,000
Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island, FL 32034
5 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | 2862 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 1998
Lot size is 0.5 acres

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 


Sandpiper - Oceanfront Amelia Island

95118 SANDPIPER LOOP
$625,000
Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island, FL 32034
2 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | 1218 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 1979
Lot size is 0.091 acres

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 

Riverplace on Amelia Island

95082 SPRING TIDE LANE
$795,000
Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island, FL 32034
4 Bedrooms | 4 Baths | 3558 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 2003
Lot size is 0.2 acres

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 


Amelia National Golf Home

95006 LANTANA COURT
$489,000
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
4 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | 3190 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 2006
Lot size is 0.43 acres

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com
 


Monday, November 15, 2010

Florida Real Estate Report

Moody’s hopeful on recovery, notes pent-up Fla. demand
PHOENIX – Nov. 15, 2010 – The pace of the national recovery is moderating and the lift spurred by nearly $800 billion in federal stimulus spending is fading, but there are several promising signs that growth will continue, including in Florida, a leading national fiscal analyst told reporters Friday morning.

Moody’s Analytics economist Chris Lafakis said the Federal Reserve will remain aggressive, with a quantitative easing plan that he equated to “basically flooding the global monetary system.” Lafakis predicted the strategy would lift asset prices, reduce corporate borrowing costs, and increase the willingness of consumers to spend.

Lafakis predicted substantial growth in Florida’s economy, mentioning that the Miami, Orlando and Tampa areas are expected to recover “quite significantly” due to a rebound in population growth and an increased willingness of people to travel to Florida for vacations. “The story of pent-up demand is true in no place more so than Florida,” he said.

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

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Mortgage Rates on Amelia Island

By Stephanie Armour, USA TODAY
Mortgage rates are hitting another record low just as home prices are firming in more parts of the country, two trends that could help boost the economy.
Potential recovery fuel:

•Rates on 30-year fixed loans averaged 4.17%, down from 4.24% a week ago, Freddie Mac reported Thursday. They've been below 5% since early May.

•Median home prices in the third quarter were up from last year's third period in 77 of 155 metro areas, the National Association of Realtors reports. In 2009's third quarter, only 30 areas showed year-over-year growth.

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

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

85586 Bostickwood Drive in North Hampton

85586 Bostickwood Drive in North Hampton. Priced at $319,000. Brylen built custom home that features a gourmet kitchen and custom woodwork. Located on a preservation lot and 10 minutes to the beaches of Amelia Island.

  Search the MLS at www.ameliaislandsearch.com

John Holbrook - REALTOR - Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee FL 32034
Great Resource for Local Information!
Phone: 904-415-0171 - Blog of Local Market Information
Email: holbrook66@msn.com Search for homes at www.ameliaislandsearch.com

 


Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Energy Savings for Homes in Fernandina Beach

Plan calls for improving home energy
WASHINGTON – Nov. 9, 2010 – U.S. homeowners will be able to get low-cost energy audits that rank a home’s efficiency on a scale of one to 10 and get federally insured loans for upgrades, under an Obama administration plan to be announced today.

With the new Home Energy Score, consumers will find out how their home compares with others and how much money they could save by adding insulation, sealing air leaks or doing other upgrades. Nine U.S. communities will test the score, similar to a miles-per-gallon label for cars, before it’s rolled out nationally next summer.

“Together, these programs will grow the home retrofit industry and help middle-class families save money and energy,” says Vice President Biden, who plans to unveil the initiative at a meeting of his Middle Class Task Force.

“This is the kind of program that could go viral,” says Jared Bernstein, executive director of the task force, noting there are tens of millions of old U.S. homes. He says it will take time, however, to get it going.

U.S. officials expect that the audits, to be done by trained contractors, will cost less than half of current private ones, which often exceed $350, because of their streamlined approach.

Consumers will be able to seek up to $25,000 in federally insured, PowerSaver loans at or below market rates. Financing will start early next year as part of a two-year pilot program.

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

North Hampton Home for Sale - Fernandina Beach



86511 EASTPORT DRIVE
$315,000
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
4 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | 2200 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 2002
Lot size is 0.24 acres
John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, FloridaCell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net
www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

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.ameliaislandsearch.com
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
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Yulee, Hilliard & Callahan
Cell 904-415-0171
Email holbrook66@msn.com

www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com
Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, & Yulee Florida
Search the local MLS at www.ameliaislandsearch.com

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

Monday, November 8, 2010

Jacksonville Housing Market

Price fall sharply and time to sell increases. Agents suggested that prices fell again in October, as our home price index fell to 9 from 22 in September (readings below 50 point to lower prices over the past month). This marks the lowest reading for Jacksonville since May ’09. Meanwhile, our home listings index fell to 32 from 44in September, suggestinghigher inventories over the past month (readings below 50 point to higher inventory levels).

In addition, our time to sell index fell to 18 from 22 in September, suggesting an increased time to sell over the past month (readings below 50 point to an increased time to sell).

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

Friday, November 5, 2010

95269 SHELL MIDDEN LANE, FERNANDINA BEACH

Listing provided by cooperating broker
95269 SHELL MIDDEN LANE
$1,300,000
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
3 Bedrooms | 4 Baths | 3461 Sq. Feet.
Year Built: 2007
Lot size is 0.97 acres

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

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Amelia Island Top 10

Amelia Island Voted as a Top 10 North American Island for Four Consecutive Years
AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. (November 3, 2010) – Amelia Island, Florida has been named the #5

North American island in the 2010 Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. This is the fourth consecutive year Amelia Island has been ranked in the awards’ Top 10 island destinations, finishing this year ahead of Hilton Head, S.C. and St. Simons, Ga. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, a 444-room Amelia Island resort, was also named in the awards, voted #24 among Top U.S. Mainland Resorts.

“We are excited to have Amelia Island included in the top 10 North American Islands for four consecutive years,” said Gil Langley, President of the Amelia Island Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We work diligently to make sure we meet visitors’ expectations and are thrilled the readers of Conde Nast Traveler are endorsing the destination.”

Readers in the survey evaluated their favorite island destinations on activities, atmosphere/ambience, beaches, friendliness, lodging, restaurants, and scenery. Out of a possible 100 points, Amelia Island, Fla. scored a 77.4. The top resorts category rated properties based on food/dining, location, overall design, rooms, service, activities and facilities.

The awards are based on the results of the Readers’ Choice Survey, in which more than 25,000 travelers voted this year. Winners will be published in the November issue.

-Amelia Island Convention & Visitors Bureau-

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

Omni Amelia Island Tennis

The 2nd Annual Men’s Pro-Tennis Championships at Omni Amelia Island Plantation will begin play this week. Watch the future men's tennis champions compete and get in the swing of things to prepare for a career on the professional tour. Competition and level of play is expected to be fierce.

Details: Ravenswood Winery Amelia Island Futures Championships, a $10,000 USTA Pro Circuit Men’s tennis event is scheduled for Friday November 12th through Sunday November 21st.

The Omni Amelia Island Plantation once again will serve as host courts for this tournament to be played at the Racquet Park on the Plantation off A1A.

Qualifying Matches are Friday, Nov 12th - Sunday, Nov 14th
Main Draw Matches are Monday, Nov 15th - Sunday, Nov 21st
Tickets are free from Friday, Nov 12 - Friday, Nov. 19

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

Amelia Island Retirement Home

Time is right to buy a retirement home
LOS ANGELES – Nov. 4, 2010 – Money Magazine is urging people a few years from retirement who plan to move when they quit work to consider buying now while home prices and mortgage rates are low.

Buyers who intend to use the place as a second home will pay the same rate as they would pay for a primary residence. If they intend to rent the property out until they retire and they need the rental income to qualify for the mortgage, lenders will consider that an investment property and charge a half to a full percentage point more.

Still, the idea remains “pretty compelling,” says Justin Krane, a certified financial planner in Los Angeles.

Source: Money Magazine, Sarah Max (11/02/2010)

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

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Amelia Island Economic Influences

UF: Election and unemployment add to fears for real estate
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Nov. 2, 2010 – Uncertainty persists in Florida’s real estate markets, aggravated by the state’s high jobless rate and fears about today’s election, a new University of Florida survey finds.

“While investment in real estate continues to flow into Florida, there is a tremendous amount of apprehension in the market due to government and economic forces,” says Timothy Becker, director of UF’s Bergstrom Center for Real Estate Studies, which issued its quarterly survey this week.

The survey is the most extensive of Florida professional real estate analysts and investors conducted on an ongoing basis. The total number of participants in the current survey is 266, who represent 13 urban regions of the state and up to 15 property types.

The state’s high unemployment continues to limit real estate growth, Becker says. The joblessness rate reached 11.9 percent in September compared with 9.6 percent nationally.

Most respondent concerns about the midterm election relate to the economy. “The results will affect Congress’ decision whether to extend the Bush-era tax cuts or let them expire, government spending and a host of other issues that currently prevent companies from hiring and expanding,” Becker says.


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

Search the mls at www.ameliaislandsearch.com

Monday, November 1, 2010

Amelia Island, Middle East Buyers

Florida is hot attraction for Middle East buyers
WASHINGTON – Nov. 1, 2010 – The National Association of Realtors (NAR) says Middle Eastern and African investors have spent almost $1 billion on properties in Florida in recent years.

Home price deterioration has made property purchases in Florida tourist areas more affordable to overseas property shoppers, with a median price of $219,400.

According to Fine and Country CEO Omer Ghani, “Low prices combined with the fact that Florida has historically had one of the highest in-migration rates among all the U.S. states and one of the highest population growth rates, makes it the most favored destination for foreign buyers.”

Tight credit and high unemployment rates mean investors have plenty of properties from which to choose.

Source: Gulf News (United Arab Emirates) (10/29/10) Nair, Manoj


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

Thursday, October 28, 2010

New Real Estate Search tool and website for looking at homes on Amelia Island.

www.ameliaislandsearch.com

John Holbrook - Realtor

New Amelia Island Property Search

New property search for real estate on Amelia Island.

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

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Solar Power on Amelia Island

Considering solar power today
What should you say to a homeowner who wishes to increase the eventual selling price on his or her home by installing a solar power system? The short answer is that we cannot accurately predict how much added value any addition to or remodel of a home will provide.

But there is a powerful incentive between now and 2016 for those who install a solar power system. Federal legislation has created a tax credit equal to 30% of the cost of the solar power system, with no ceiling on the resulting dollar amount.1 Your homeowner should be made aware of this and the fact that, even with this huge cost savings, a complete solar power system remains a substantial investment.


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

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Jacksonville Area Real Estate Report

Jacksonville, FL – Traffic Falls as Buyer Expect More
Pain Ahead
3,320 single-family permits in 2009, 23rd largest market in the country
Traffic dips further below expectations. Our buyer traffic index fell again in September,coming in at 11, down from 20 in August, pointing to traffic well below agents’ expectations(readings below 50). The marks the lowest reading for Jacksonville since September 2008,and is the fourth consecutive month of lower than expected traffic. Agents commented thatbuyers were worried that the market hasn’t yet stabilized. Concerns centered on rushing into a home, only to miss out on a better deal in the near-future, while also being locked into a large mortgage. One agent said, “Buyers are looking, but they are afraid of what they might get themselves into.” According to another, “My clients are being more and
more patient. They think better deals are out there, and they want to make sure they get the best one.” Meanwhile, one agent highlighted that investor demand has started to wane, as they are also thinking they may get better deals down the road.

An increased time to sell spells trouble for more price declines. Agents said prices
continued to fall in September, as our home price index came in at 22, unchanged from
August, suggesting lower prices over the past month (readings below 50 point to
sequentially lower prices). Meanwhile, inventory levels edged higher according to agents, as our home listings index came in at 44, just shy of a neutral reading of 50suggesting higher inventories over the past 30 days. We remain concerned over Jacksonville’s inventory, as we think there is additional risk from shadow foreclosure inventory held by banks. Our time to sell index came in at 22, down from 25 in August, and further from a neutral reading of 50, suggesting an increased time to sell over the past month (readings
below 50).

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

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Mortgage Rates Regions bank

From the desk of Alan Vanderheiden

Senior Mortgage Advisor

Regions Mortgage

1409 Sadler Road

Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

904-277-3232 (office) 904-335-0500 (cell) 904-277-2261 (fax)

alan.van@regions.com



September 28, 2010

FNMA 30 Year Fixed: 4.125%

FNMA 15 Year Fixed: 3.625%

USDA / FHA / VA: 4.25%


Hello Friends,

I usually don’t sell on mortgage rates. However, pricing is so attractive today I wanted to touch base with you all.

I heard that Washington declared the recession was over a couple of weeks ago. I don’t know about you but it sure doesn’t feel over. There is still a ways to go before I feel better about our industry and economy.

Several reasons rates continue to be low. In fact these rates I’ve published today are as low as I’ve ever seen. While the government continues to print money to stimulate the economy, inflation continues to stay on the horizon. We are still in a recession….just ask the 6 million people out of work. I believe pricing will remain low until we put folks back to work and they begin spending money. Then we’ll work our way out of the recession and inflation will come roaring in. Rates will move up quickly.

The housing market is about 30% of the economy. Stimulus money did a good job of giving our industry a boost in the spring but now this money is gone we are back to a declining housing market. Whatever Washington does in the future to give us another shot of money can only be a temporary solution. The real improvement in housing will come as people go back to work, are not fearful of losing jobs and have money to spend. Your guess is as good as mine how long this will take.

I am seeing more contracts for second homes and investment properties. Buyers that have money are seeing an opportunity to find real values in housing. The condo market seems to be improving and yes…..we have a program for non-warrantable condos.

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

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Tennis Anyone

Reprinted from the Jacksonville Paper
The $10,000 WOmen’s Tennis Championships beginS this weeK on Amelia Island
This USTA Pro Circuit event will be the first at the OMNI-Amelia Island Plantation
Amelia Island, FL – September 20, 2010 –
The 2010 Amelia Island $10,000 Women’s Tennis Championships, a USTA Pro Circuit event, begins this week at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation.

Sunday, September 26 – Monday, September 27: Qualifying Rounds
Tuesday, September 28 – Friday, October 1: Main Draw
Saturday, October 2: Singles Semi-finals and Doubles finals
Sunday, October 3: Singles Finals

“The women who will be playing here in September are at the top of their game, and we are looking forward to watching the next generation of great players. The USTA Pro Circuit events in the tennis world inspire community spirit like the best minor leagues of professional baseball,” said Kelly Gunterman, Director of Tennis at the OMNI Amelia Island Plantation and Tournament Director for the USTA Pro Circuit events.

Admission to the tournament will be free from Sunday through Friday. Saturday, October 2 and Sunday, October 3, the Fernandina Beach Rotary Club will sell the admission tickets ($10) onsite, to support their not-for-profit programs.

VIP tickets, which will include VIP tent and reserved seating for Friday, October 1- Sunday, October 3, are available for $75 per ticket. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Tennis Without Borders, helping students pursue life opportunities on and off the court.

Tennis Without Borders will also be accepting donations of used racquets (any size, any year, any style).

On Saturday, October 2, Brooks Rehabilitation will be onsite offering free orthopedic musculoskeletal screenings by a licensed physical therapist.

For tournament and ticket information, contact Kelly Gunterman at gunterman.kelly@aipfl.com, (802) 345-9842 or (904) 277-5145.


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

Monday, September 20, 2010

JD Power Ratings

Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services President Earl Lee at Summit Conference today unveiled a “microsite” through which sales professionals can share detailed information on the Network’s recent J.D. Power and Associates award for “Highest Overall Satisfaction for Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms.”


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

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Jacksonville Area Real Estate Report

Jacksonville, FL – Job Worries and Tight Lending
Limit Pool of Buyers
(3,320 single-family permits in 2009, 23rd largest market in the country)

Buyer traffic remains at depressed levels. Buyer traffic inched up in August, as our
traffic index improved to 20 from 18 in July, but remains at depressed levels well below agents’ expectations (any reading below 50 indicates traffic levels below expectations). Agents primarily cited the challenging jobs environment as well as difficulty getting buyers qualified for loans as the reasons for the weak traffic levels. One agent noted, “Lenders are too strict on financing still.” Another agreed, saying buyers were worried about, “getting loan approvals and job security.” A third agent also had similar comments, noting traffic was less than expected due to, “unemployment and job insecurity.” One agent who saw healthier traffic trends said “low prices” were the driving force.

Home prices fall further as inventories increase. Home prices continued to decline in August, as our home price index fell to 22 from 25 in July, with readings below 50indicating lower prices over the last 30 days. Weak demand and higher inventory levels contributed to the declines. Our home listings index dropped to 35 in August from 54 in July, indicating a further rise in inventories following temporary stabilization last month(readings below 50 point to higher inventory levels). In addition, our time to sell index (a leading indicator of home prices reflecting both demand and inventory trends) deteriorated further in August. Our index fell to 25 from 39 in July, with readings below 50 indicating a longer time needed to sell a home over the past 30 days. The rising inventory and longer time needed to sell a home point to further price declines in the coming months.

John Holbrook - Realtor
904-415-0171
Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty
Amelia Island, Florida 32034

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

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Omni Hotel - Amelia Island Plantation

Press Release.
TRT OMNI EMERGES SUCCESSFUL BIDDER
After four hours and 147 separate bids, TRT Omni was certified as the successful bidder in Monday's auction for Amelia Island Company with a bid of $67.1 MM. The back-up bidder was Starwood with a bid of $67.0 MM. Stalking horse Noble declined to increase its May bid of $47.4 MM. The successful bid must still be approved as part of Thursday's Confirmation Hearing in U.S. Federal Bankruptcy Court.

Bidding started at 3:00 pm in a completely full courtroom with Judge Paul Glenn conducting the auction. Bidding started at $48.5 MM.

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

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Omni Bid Amelia Island Plantation

Omni Hotel owner has winning bid for Amelia Island Plantation
Texas billionaire pays $67.1 million for the resort.
Posted: August 23, 2010 - 8:02pm

By Mark Basch
A company run by a Texas billionaire that owns the Omni Hotels chain won a bidding war Monday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court to buy the Amelia Island Plantation resort.

TRT Holdings Inc. had the winning bid of $67.1 million, more than $20 million higher than the original bid submitted for the property in May, to buy the resort. The bid is contingent on the Amelia Island Co.’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization plan getting approval at another court hearing on Thursday.

Irving, Texas-based TRT is run
John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, FloridaCell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.net

www.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Prudential Chaplin Williams Realty


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

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Recommended Restaurant in Fernandina Beach

LuLu's at the Thompson House
11 South 7th Street
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
904-432-8394

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

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Recommended Insurance in Fernandina Beach

Amelia Insurance Agency
Offering Insurance for over 50 years.
Telephone 904-261-3606
2384 Sadler Rd, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
www.ameliainsurance.com

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

Recommended Insurance in Fernandina Beach

Amelia Insurance Agency
Offering Insurance for over 50 years.
John Holbrook - Realtor Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach & Yulee, FloridaCell: 904-415-0171 Email: holbrook66@msn.com Web: www.nassaumls.netwww.johnholbrook.blogspot.com

Club Villa for Sale at Amelia Island Plantation


3019 Club Villas at AIP - $315,000
Oak Marsh Golf Course frontage.
2BD/2.5BA with vaulted ceilings.
Enjoy the Incredible sunset views.

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

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Office Building Fernandina Beach for Sale

905 South 8th Street - $248,000
Commercial office near downtown.
Freestanding building with parking.
Well maintained. Renter in place.
MLS 52852

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

3019 Club Villa at Amelia Island Plantation - $315,000


3019 Club Villas at AIP - $315,000
Oak Marsh Golf Course frontage.
2BD/2.5BA with vaulted ceilings.
Enjoy the Incredible sunset views
MLS 52795

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

Club Villa at AIP for Sale - $219,000


Offered by Carey Dresser at Prudential.

3003 Club Villa - $219,000
Lowest Priced Unit on the Plantation
West side of Amelia Island Plantation
Near the Golf Course and Intracoastal Waterway
2 Bedroom & 2.5 Bath
Remodeled with hard wood floors.
Picture is off the complex.

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

Amelia Island Plantation Bidders

Two more bidders emerge to buy Amelia Island Plantation
By Mark Basch The Florida Times-Union, Jacksonville
Publication: Florida Times-Union (Jacksonville)
Date: Friday, July 30 2010

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Two more investors have submitted bids to buy the resort to compete with Noble Investment Group, which submitted the initial bid for the property.

The resort's owner, the Amelia Island Co., filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization plan in May centered around a $45.9 million buyout bid for the resort by a fund associated with Noble. Atlanta-based Noble operates 50 hotels in 13 states and said that it intends to spend additional money to upgrade the Plantation's facilities, which include a 249-room oceanfront hotel, conference center, nine restaurants and four golf courses.

However, Noble's agreement to buy the resort is subject to other investors submitting higher bids. The bids were due by Thursday and while no details about them have been filed in court, two companies are offering more than $45.9 million, said Gardner Davis, special counsel for the Amelia Island Co. in the bankruptcy proceedings.

Davis said he couldn't reveal details about those bids, but he said the two companies are "top-flight hotel and hospitality investors" that are willing to spend additional money on the resort.

"All three bidders are committed to enhancing and expanding the operations of the Plantation," Davis said. "This points to a very bright future for the residents and employees of the Plantation."

The three bidders will have the opportunity to increase their bids at the auction on Aug. 23 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Jacksonville, with the highest bidder that day getting the property. A hearing to confirm the company's reorganization plan is scheduled for Aug. 26, which would allow Amelia Island Co. to emerge from bankruptcy.

Amelia Island Co. said in a court filing this week that it is "imperative" to confirm the plan "without delay."

"The company does not have sufficient funds to carry it through the slower winter months, and its going concern value will be lost if it were forced to shut its doors," the filing said.

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

Monday, August 9, 2010

North Hampton Home for Sale - Fernandina Beach


86511 Eastport Drive - $328,000
North Hampton Community
4BD/3BA on the golf course
Quality upgrades & single story.
MLS 52796

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