Clearwater Florida Homes Condos Real Estate

Frequently Asked Questions About the $8,000. Federal Tax Credit

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 17:19:15 -0600

This is a great post that answers most the questions people have about the new tax credit.....

Via Debe Maxwell 704.491.3310 Charlotte NC Real Estate (Helen Adams Realty):

Congress Approved the $8,000 Tax Credit For Homebuyers. Here are answers to frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions About the $8,000. Federal Tax Credit

Q:

A:
How much is the tax credit?

The tax credit would be $8,000 or 10% of the purchase price, whichever is less.

Q:

A:
Who is eligible?

Similar to the $7,500 tax credit included in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, the $8,000 tax credit (included in the 2009 economic stimulus plan) is available for the purchase of the primary residence by first-time homebuyers.

Q:

A:
If this is for first-time homebuyers, how do I know if I am eligible for the tax credit?

According to the IRS, any taxpayer who has not owned a home during the 3 years prior to the date of purchase can qualify for the credit.

Q:

A:
Do I have to repay the $8,000.?

No. Unlike the previous $7,500 tax credit, the $8,000. does not have to be repaid UNLESS, the home is sold within three years of purchase; at that time, the credit will be reversed.

Q:

A:
Are there any income limitations on the tax credit?

Yes. The tax credit is strictly for individuals with adjusted gross income of under $75,000 or $150,000 for joint filers.

Now that you're qualified for the Tax Credit, let's go shopping for Charlotte NC homes for sale today!

About the author:

Debe Maxwell is a Charlotte Residential Real Estate Broker, Certified Neighborhood & Relocation Specialist, ABR & e-PRO who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Charlotte NC Metro Area. If you're relocating to or from any other area of the country, Debe connects you with any member of her team of relocation professionals in your destination or exit city of choice. The destination service is of no cost to you! The Maxwell House Group's quality service guarantee puts this team far ahead of the competition; providing unsurpassed customer service is their #1 priority! Debe Maxwell -- Helen Adams Realty -- 704.491.3310

Copyright© 2009 By Debe Maxwell, All Rights Reserved...**$8,000 Federal Tax Credit FAQ **

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is strictly an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

Wells Fargo now owns Baywalk in downtown St Petersburg

Sat, 21 Feb 2009 17:40:08 -0600

We keep seeing the fallout of this economy - thanks for the update from Sharon Simms...

Via Sharon Simms St Pete FL - CRS CIPS CLHMS RSPS (ALVA International, Inc.):

This afternoon Wells Fargo foreclosed on Baywalk retail complex in downtown St. Petersburg. Other developers had expressed interest, but none placed a winning bid today.

Baywalk was a critical part in the redevelopment of St. Petersburg, and hopefully will again be a popular and successful destination. We enjoy Gratzzi's Italian restaurant, which is one of the original tenants. Chico's is another early tenant, as is Muvico. The existing businesses and restaurants will continue operating.

It's expected that Wells Fargo Bank will redevelop and improve the property prior to placing it actively for sale.

Clearwater Beach Florida 33767 | Not All is Jolley for our Beach Trolley

Sun, 26 Aug 2007 16:41:20 -0500

Sand Key - Clearwater Beach - Island Estates - 33767 Update

One of Clearwater Beaches moving landmarks is the Jolley Trolley's - these open aired Trolleys are a Fun and Economical way to get around on Clearwater Beach, Sand Key and Island Estates. This is a great service for Clearwater beach condo and home owners from Sand Key to Island Estates as well as the local tourists.

The Jolley Trolley had 2 routes covering Clearwater Beach, Sand Key, Island Estates and Downtown Clearwater. Recent budget cuts by the City of Clearwater in mid-July have forced this non-profit organization to cut their services down to 2 trolley's and only one route. Currently there was only limited use of the Route between downtown Clearwater and the Beaches so they have decided to stop this route for now. This should allow them to continue to operate with the 35% less funding next year from the City of Clearwater. As the Clearwater Downtown revitalization continues they hope to add the Downtown route again as the demand for going downtown rises.

The good news is the Jolley Trolley is still a great bargain - The cost to ride the Trolley is still only $1.25 - in fact you can stay on as long as you want for that price. For the young (those 4-10) and the young at heart (those 65 and over)- you ride for less than half that price at just $.60 a trip. Babies and Toddlers under the age of 3 are FREE.

So don't worry about having a cocktail at a local restaurant or finding parking at various locations - just hop the Trolley and enjoy the ride! The typical round trip from North Clearwater Beach (Starting at the Regatta Beach Club) and going to Sand Key (to Ultimar) averages 35 minutes. You can catch the trolley at the posted signs located on almost every other block or just flag them down if you see them coming - if they can stop safely they will.

Clearwater Beach Real Estate

Are you looking to buy a Gulf Beach Home or Condo? Here's what some of our past clients have to say about how we helped them....

******************* CLICK ON PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE CLIENT VIDEO TESTIMONIALS ******************

Buyers tell us that selecting a Clearwater Beach Real Estate Agent, especially online or from a distance, can be a challenge. Some of our past clients agreed to share their experiences and tell you why they think you should work with us.

Click on the photos below and meet some of our clients and now friends...we'd love to be YOUR choice too!

NFL Super Bowl in Tampa Florida in 2009 - Book your Homes, Condos, Hotel rooms now

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 08:36:46 -0500

Tampa Bay Florida - Today I was reading one of my favorite Tampa Bay blogs and was reminded that this year's Super Bowl is only 149 days away and will be held right here in Tampa Bay. Our community has hosted the Super Bowl before and boy does this town enjoy the festivities. If you want to find out more about this year's Super Bowl or opportunities to volunteer or get involved then visit the Tampa Bay Superbowl website.

It's amazing what local homes, beach condos and vacation rentals of all kinds will go for during that weekend. If you are planning to be here don't put off making your reservations. While Jack and I don't handle rentals you can call Patty Belloise at 727-410-1936 who does (just in case you're looking for a great local contact).

Now if you are someone who has decided that "now is the time to buy" Tampa Bay real estate - we CAN help you with this. :)

Regardless of what your plans are here are some pictures of our Bucs Stadium, which I had the privledge of touring with Leadership Pinellas last year - I'll give you a sneak peek into our stadium.

Call us Today at (727) 710-8036 to hear more about how we can help you!

Copyright © 2008 Jack and Cyndee Haydon, Clearwater REALTORS and your Clearwater Real Estate Consultants specializing in Tampa Bay Real Estate and may not be copied, reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed or published.

Clearwater Real Estate | Florida Roof Prices Explode at Midnight - Hold on to your Trusses

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 09:50:44 -0500

Clearwater, FL Homes Find New Roof Codes Break the Bank

Beware....Monday October 1,2007 - Clearwater Florida homeowners will see roof prices for their homes sky rocket. Anyone putting a new roof on a Clearwater home or condo (association) may have to break open your piggy bank to pay for your new roof since new Florida House Bill 7057 goes into effect tomorrow.

The bill had great intentions and was designed to make Clearwater Florida homes safer and more secure in hurricanes. The end result is that all homes getting new roofs after October 1^st.now need added materials, reinforcement and labor which will add anywhere from 15% to 50% to the cost of a new roof for your Clearwater home. Most agree it will be closer to 30% on average.

I met with local expert, Matt Cetta, Owner and CEO of Metro Roofing and asked him to give our readers the straight scoop on these new law changes that were just passed focusing on Hurricane Mitigation retro-fitting of roofs in Florida.

Matt Cetta, who is also Certified with the My Safe Florida Program, explained the effects of the new law on home owners are that,

"Homes assessed under $300,000 they will be required to have their new roof re-nailed to new code requirements and use a new waterproofing membrane which may increase the price of replacing their roof by an additional 15-30%.
Homes that are assessed for $300,000 and greater will now require extra gable braces and truss straps which will increase the cost to replace these roofs by 30-50%."

Also Matt reminds us "that if you've had a recent quote, realize that the new cost will be higher by maybe 50%."

My Complete Interview with Matt Cetta, Owners of Metro Roofing

Metro Roofing - Clearwater-Beach, FL 33767 - Roofing Company Video

If you have any additional questions feel free to call Matt Cetta of Metro Roofing at (727)-787-7663 or email him at metro1@tampabay.rr.com

Matt has graciously offered the readers of Sandbars to Sunsets a free Video Roof Inspection so just call Matt and let him know you read his offer here. We highly recommend Matt and his team of roofing professionals.

Clearwater Florida Real Estate

Are you looking to buy a Clearwater Beach Condo or Clearwater Home? Here's what some of our past clients have to say about how we helped them....

************ CLICK ON PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE CLIENT VIDEO TESTIMONIALS ************

Buyers tell us that selecting a Clearwater Beach Real Estate Agent,especially online or from a distance, can be a challenge. Some of our past clients agreed to share their experiences and tell you why they think you should work with us.

Click on the photos below and meet some of our clients and now friends...we'd love to be YOUR choice too!

Clearwater Pool Homes for Sale | Buying a Backyard Paradise or Money Pit?

Sat, 07 Jul 2007 06:47:41 -0500

Clearwater Real Estate | Pool Homes -Backyard Paradise of Unpleasant Surprises?

We live in a wonderful part of Florida and there's nothing better than a cool dip in a backyard pool on a hot summer day. Can't you just picture floating in the pool, relaxing, rejuvenating. This is how it should be...

Now let me tell you what can happen if you don't do your homework when you're buying that Lovely Tampa Bay Pool Home.

Jack and I spend the majority of our time working with Tampa bay Homebuyers and are big advocates and believers in Home Inspections. I am a member of the Tampa Bay Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) which allows me to be a resource to my clients through my relationships with some of the areas most accomplished remodeling professionals. In a state known sometimes for fly-by-night tradesman - referrals to the best remodeling contractors and professionals in the area has proven invaluable.

In this case, Mark Thomas and his team of professionals at Skinee-Dip Pools & Spas, the largest Tampa Bay area Pool Remodelers and Pool Contractors in the 5 county Tampa Bay area inspected this pool and boy are our Home Buyers lucky they did! They know Tampa Bay pools since they've built over 3,000 since 1971 and do over 1000 pool remodels each year. These are the kind of expert resources we bring to our clients...

Now this is what the pool looked like - Looks inviting doesn't it. Our homebuyers were already imagining their pool parties and having the grandkids over - if they had stopped here they would have purchased a $15,000+ problem!

Hold on not so fast - take off those rose colored glasses ....remember all Inspections are for the Home buyer - If you are a Home or Condo buyer - Please take advantage of them or be ready for unpleasant "surprises" later and possible very costly surprises too.

Here's what we found when we took a closer look at this pool....

How happy would you be to learn about all this AFTER you bought your home?

If you have a Realtor dedicated to Tampa Bay Home Buyers, like us, they'll negotiate on your behalf like it they would for their own family.

How happy would you be to learn about all this AFTER you bought your home?

If you have a Realtor dedicated to Tampa Bay Home Buyers, like us, they'll negotiate on your behalf like it they would for their own family.

Are you looking to buy a Tampa Bay Home or Condo? Are you working with a Realtor who will really be YOUR advocate as the Home or Condo Buyer and always put YOUR best interests above selling any one home or condo? If not maybe you should reconsider your choice - we believe Buyers like you deserve more! - in this case it would have been @ $15,000 mistake - OUCH!!. Here's what some of our past clients have to say about how we helped them....

********************** CLICK ON PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE CLIENT VIDEO TESTIMONIALS ********************

Buyers tell us that selecting a Clearwater Realtor, especially online or from a distance, can be a challenge.

Our past clients kindly agreed to share their experiences and tell you why they think you should work with us.

Click on the photos below and meet some of our clients and now friends...we'd love to be YOUR choice too!

Cyndee and Jack Haydon, Realtors ~ Proudly helping Buyers of Pool Homes and Condos in the Tampa Bay Area.

* All information copyrighted 2007 Cyndee and Jack Haydon, Sand Bars to Sunsets of Tampa Bay - We cover it all!

Clearwater Florida Home Mold Expert Shares Video Tip on Getting Rid of Mold in Your Home

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:16:37 -0500

Clearwater FL Real Estate Ask the Expert Series

Most of us would love to submit and have questions asked by a local real estate expert, mortgage expert, home insurance expert, carpet cleaning expert, mold remediation expert and more. The great thing about a Clearwater Community blog like ours is that we can help you get your questions answered and put you in touch with some of the most reputable, honest people serving Pinellas County.

Today I was speaking with Matt Jerabek, Owner of Mr. Dry Out and is our Clearwater Florida Mold Remediation Expert. He is the leading Water Extraction and Structural Dryout for homes and condos in Pinellas County ~ Pasco County and even parts of Hillsboorough County. You might be wondering when you might need his services - here are a few of the times I've seen him save the day when:

a pipe bursts and you have a flood of water inside your home you need to act fast before mold can start,
a hose bursts or leaks on your washing machine and you have water flowing everywhere you need dryed out and extracted,
you have an Air Conditioning unit that backs up and these are sometimes the worst surprises because you may not realize it happened until you stumble across the moldy mess
then the one I hate the most - a sewage backup problem - while the plumber with handle the blockage or stoppage - it's Matt's team is going to be the one you'd call to clean up the mess.

I have seen him work his magic and when clients of mine had a luxury condo and had an unexpected Air Conditioner water leak just days before the condo was scheduled to be sold and the day the appraisal was to take place – Matt came in and quickly and efficiently extracted all the water and ensure there was no mold started as a result.

In a state like FLorida where Home Sellers and Home buyers can sue over issues that affect the material value of a property makes mold an issue you can’t afford to mess around with – you need an expert like Matt Jerabek and the Mr Dry Out Team

Mr Dry Out gives Clearwater Home Owners Easy Tip

Matt takes a consultative approach to his business and today he agreed to share a simple tip for our Clearwater Home Owners who may find a small amount of mold around their windows or in their bathrooms. I was surprised that my first thought on what to do was exactly what Mr Dry Out said was the worse thing I could do for my home– oops.

So in FLorida – our homes are subject to lots of humidity and it’s easy to see mold starting – so what do you do and why? Listen to Matt Jerabek’s simple home solution in the video below….

Clearwater's Mold and Water Extraction Expert, Matt Jerabek - MrDryOut.com shares Easy Tip

Real Estate Video by - Cyndee Haydon Cleawater FLorida Real Estate Expert

Clearwater Beach Real Estate

Are you looking to buy a Clearwater Florida Home or Clearwater Condo? Here's what some of our past clients have to say about how we helped them....

************ CLICK ON PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE CLIENT VIDEO TESTIMONIALS ************

Buyers tell us that selecting a Clearwater Beach Real Estate Agent,especially online or from a distance, can be a challenge. Some of our past clients agreed to share their experiences and tell you why they think you should work with us.

Click on the photos below and meet some of our clients and now friends...we'd love to be YOUR choice too!

We can provide you with complimentary information on Relocations ~ Waterfront Homes for Sale, Town homes Condos & Villas ~ Beach House of Your Dreams ~ Clearwater Vacation Homes ~ Clearwater Second Homes ~ Florida Investment Property in Pinellas County ~ Luxury Homes ~ Luxury Condos for Sale in the Tampa Bay resort areas ~ Condos for Boaters ~ Homes for Boaters ~ Boat Ramps ~ Boating ~ Golf Course Homes ~ Diving ~ Freshwater Fishing ~ Saltwater Fishing ~ Latest Home Insurance info ~ Latest Property Taxes Info ~ 1031 Exchange ~ Real Estate Market Reports ~ Resort Properties ~ Condos on the Beach ~ Beach Bargains ~ Foreclosures ~ Pool Homes ~ Homes on the Intercoastal Waterways ~

*The above information and images are Copyright © 2007 Jack and Cyndee Haydon, Clearwater Beach Real Estate Consultants and may not be copied, reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed or published. All rights reserved. Plagiarism will be detected and is punishable by law.

Clearwater Florida - a Great Place to call Home or Home for a week!

Sun, 11 Mar 2007 17:25:53 -0500

learwater Florida - Sportstown USA

About Clearwater Florida - Our Home Town

Jack and I love living in Clearwater Florida. Some of us are lucky enough to have it be our home and others find it's a great place to visit and better yet, own a vacation home or condo here!

Clearwater Florida is a dynamic city located in the middle of Pinellas County. Clearwater is also the county seat for Pinellas County and is the smallest of the 3 cities that make up what is often referred to as the Tampa Bay area which encompasses Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa (and all the smaller cities in Hillsborough and Pinellas County).

It has a population of around 100,000 and has a variety of great options in homes and condos in all price ranges from $100,000 to multi-million dollar luxury estates - many of which are on our beaches or open waters.

You can live on our inter-coastal, on golf courses, in a neighborhood with state-of-the-art recreation centers or have the white sand of the Gulf of Mexico at your back door - what's your pleasure?

Clearwater Beach Florida which is part of Clearwater, was recognized at the Best City Beach on the Gulf of Mexico. Clearwater is also home to the Philadelphia Phillies spring training camp.

Looking to Buy a Clearwater Home?

If you want to buy a house in the Clearwater Florida area- we've made it fast and easy for you to search all the Clearwater homes for sale . Search just like a Clearwater Realtors and see all the properties being sold by all Clearwater Real Estate agents.

Enjoy our fully customizable search of complete Clearwater MLS (multiple listing service) of single family homes, condos, villas and townhomes. We specialize in helping you buy a Clearwater real estate bargain (foreclosures, short sales, REO or bank owned properties).

Do You Need Sell Your Clearwater Home Now?
The first thing Clearwater home sellers need to know in this real estate market is "What's my home worth right now?". Our experience shows it all depends on where YOU live. Please ask for a FREE Comparable Market Analysis Report on your home so you can see what homes are actually selling for now in your neighborhood! No obligation, of course.

Home sellers today are finding that Tampa Bay homes are now selling for what they were back in 2004. If you bought your property in the last 5 years or utilized your home's equity you may owe more on your home than it will appraise for which means selling for what you owe in todays market almost impossible. We will work to get a Clearwater short sale approved if you need to sell your home and find yourself saying I'm upside down on my mortgage and I owe more than my house is worth. Realize it's important that you act now, be proactive and get professional advice now so you're not chasing the market down or on a sinking ship!

Call us to schedule a FREE private real estate consultation to fully understand your home selling options (no pressure no hassles - guaranteed). Many home sellers are now understanding that a short sale is the option they've been looking for.
We have helped many families sell their Clearwater homes , quickly and painlessly even in this difficult Tampa Bay real estate market. One of our happy home sellers even dubbed us the painless Realtors. In fact, we may already have a buyer for your property because we understand that over 84% of home buyers today are finding their next house on the internet which is why when you use our Wise Home Selling Plan we make sure they are seeing your home first.
Whether you are buying or selling a home in Clearwater / St Petersburg / Tampa Bay - Call us now and let us know what you need help with today! - 727-710-8036.

Clearwater Real Estate Agent Testimonials

**************** CLICK ON PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE & HEAR CLIENT VIDEO TESTIMONIALS ***************

Buyers tell us that selecting the BEST Clearwater Real Estate Agent, especially online or from a distance, can be a challenge. Some of our past clients agreed to share their experiences and tell you why they think you should work with us.

Click on the photos below and meet some of our clients and now friends...we'd love to be YOUR choice too!

Your one stop source for all Clearwater Homes for Sale | Clearwater Beach Condos for Sale| Villas | Townhomes | Condo Hotels for sale by all Real estate companies!

Relocations ~ Waterfront Homes, Townhomes Condos & Villas ~ Beach House of Your Dreams ~ Find the Perfect Florida Lifestyle in Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay area ~ Clearwater Real Estate ~ Clearwater Beach Real Estate ~ 33767 ~ 33764 ~ 33765 ~ 33756

*The above information and images are Copyright © 2007 Cyndee & Jack Haydon and may not be copied, reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed or published. All rights reserved. Plagiarism will be detected and is punishable by law.

Palm Harbor Florida - Wall Springs Park - A Great Place to Spend a Day

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 23:17:13 -0500

Pinellas County Parks, Green Space and Fun Things to Do

Palm Harbor Florida - Recently my family along with some friends took our kids to Wall Springs Park for the day. It's a great place to hike, bike, fish, bird watch, relax and just have a great time. This is one of Pinellas County's best kept secrets just of Alt 19 before you get to Tarpon Springs. It extends out to the coast through the thick mangroves that offer a real look at Natural Florida.

The Park is also located along the Pinellas Trail. I took quite a few pictures to give you a sneek peak at this special place - however there's nothing like seeing it in person. Pinellas County acquired Wall Springs in 1988 with the initial purchase of 63 acres which included the Spring and surrounding area - Here's an up-close look at Wall Springs Park.

Wall Springs Park - Quite a Local History

In 1927 the Wall family sold it to the Davis family that changed the name from Wall Springs to Health Springs - where they marketed and extolled the health benefits of these waters. Mr. Harry Davis also spread the myth that Spanish explorer Ponce De Leon discovered this spring.

Mr. Davis eventually sold the property to the Cullen family of Palm Harbor in 1949. The Cullen family changed the name back to Wall Springs and operated it as a commercial recreational facility. They added many amenities like horseshoes, volleyball, hiking paths, picnic shelters and more.

Back in the 1950's this Spring was the site of a freshwater beach where tourists enjoyed lounging and bathing in these pristine waters.

Eventually in 1966 the Cullen family closed the facility due to high insurance premiums and liabilities. which left the door open for Pinellas County to acquire Wall Springs in 1988.

August 20, 2005 the park was officially opened to the public through the use of Penny for Pinellas taxes - after developing fishing piers, observation decks, playground and restrooms for visitors to enjoy this piece of Pinellas Paradise.

If you are looking for information on buying Pinellas County Real Estate give me a call at (727) 710-8035 - It's a great place to live with lots of green space and great things to do.

Credit Market Update For The Week - Bond Market Dislocates

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 17:54:24 -0500

Clearwater Florida I know we're all a little dizzy from the Stock Market plunge this week - so are you wondering what caused this to happen?

Here's an excellent article by Matt Heaton on why it happened and what we might see next.

Via Matt Heaton:

Sorry, I didn't get a chance to do updates during the week, things were moving so fast that I barely had the time to keep on top of them myself. Pretty much everybody is fixated on the "crash" in the stock markets with major US indexes plunging about 17% on the week, but equity markets are just a symptom, it's important to look at the cause.

The deterioration in the credit markets on a daily basis was simply stunning, and resulted in a near lock down of both intrabank lending and financial commercial paper markets by the end of the week.

Bond market dislocates

We saw what is referred to as a dislocation in the bond market early this week, and these types of dislocations, historically without fail have lead to stock market crashes. Basically we had money fleeing long term US treasury bonds, causing their price to plummet and thus the yield to increase. This happened at the same time the opposite occurred in short term US treasury bonds as people flocked to safety, and at times in the week even drove the yield on 13 week treasuries negative (yes it is possible).

There is a very strong correlation between equities (stocks) and bonds, as money moves out of stocks it typically moves into bonds and vice versa. So if stock prices are going up, bond prices are going down. We saw this correlation totally destroyed this week, as stocks were crashing, long bond prices were plummeting (yields increasing). This indicates capital (probably foreign capital) fleeing long term US treasuries. Chart below of the ten year treasury yield and second the DOW during the week. Yes, this is VERY bad.

What caused the dislocation?

Simply put it was CAUSED by the $700B bailout and the FED's buying of the commercial paper early this week. The reason is simple supply and demand economics. It was something many people saw coming and I mentioned was one of the reasons I was so adamant the bailout had to be stopped. The bailout means the US Treasury has to issue significantly more long term US Treasuries to fund it at the same time the demand for them is staying essentially flat or possibly even decreasing. Increased supply with flat demand means prices of long term treasuries are going way down and yields (interest rates) are going way up. It's not rocket science. Even though the treasuries have yet to issued the bond market is beginning the process of pricing it in.

The more we try to bail things out the higher we will force long term interest rates, ultimately extending and deepening the real economic pain. If the stock market had not crashed at the same time forcing money into bonds to hide, we would have seen an absolute explosion in long term rates this week.

What does it mean?

As a real estate agent or loan officer the implications will probably scare the you know what out of you. Rates are almost certainly going much higher over the next few months, and I think there is a probability of a 1930's style bond market collapse being triggered. If this type of bond market collapse does occur, we're not talking a 1 or 2% increase in rates, I'm talking at minimum double where they are now and in the space of a year. Yes, I know it that seems improbable, but it's happened before under similar circumstances.

Below is a chart of the 1930's bond market collapse, and we are almost matching the event chain and timing perfectly (we're finishing the flight to quality stage). While i hope history does not repeat, our policy makers seem dead set on following the exact same ill fated path and the bailout may have pushed us across the event horizon.

* Lower bond prices mean higher yield/interest rates.

Credit market indicators

I mentioned above many indicators of stress in the credit markets went through unbelievable deterioration on a daily basis during the week. One of the main ones I watch is the TED spread which is the spread between 3 month treasury yields and 3 month LIBOR rates. The higher it goes the more stress. This is because short term treasury yields drop in times of fear because they are considered the safest place to stash money while LIBOR will increase as banks become more fearful of lending.

The long term average spread is about 30 basis points and anything over 200 basis points is crisis mode. We started the week at 382 basis points and continuously ramped to finish at 464 basis points.

As indicated by TED spread LIBOR rates continued to explode during the week. Overnight LIBOR rates ramped to well over 4% as banks became fearful of lending to each other, until collapsing on Friday due to coordinated central bank action. But 3 month LIBOR continued on it's ramp and is now close to double what is was a couple months ago. LIBOR rates are extremely important because there is over $300T in worldwide debt that is in someway tied to these rates. So they go up, borrowing costs for banks and businesses go way up, and almost every business is reliant on credit to some degree.

From a banking perspective banks often borrow at LIBOR and lend at a rate tied to the the FED's target rate. So the increasing spreads and other effects on the yield curve are absolutely destroying the ability of the banks and other financial institutions ability to make money.

Other significant events

* Iceland's banking and financial system collapses during the week forcing them into official bankruptcy on Friday

* Hungary's bond market collapses

* Japan's main banks began firewalling themselves off from other world banks and refusing to lend

* World equity markets plunged, in most cases worse than US's, with trading suspended indefinitely by several of them including Russia

* G7 meetings going on this weekend and everybody is scrambling for a solution

Stock market stuff

Even though I'm a very active trader myself I generally avoid talking about stock markets on my blog here at ActiveRain. I try to keep it to credit markets that have a direct impact on rates and loan availability and thus the real estate industry. The stock plunge we've seen in the last couple weeks has certainly been pretty devastating, for comparison here's the 2000 dot com crash on a monthly chart vs. our current one.

For many reasons both technical and fundamental I think we are very overdue to a violent snap back rally in this bear market, possibly starting this week, but we probably have a long ways to go still before we put in an ultimate bottom. So be safe...

Negative Equity Fixed for Home Owners with American Home Ownership Resurgence Plan?

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:53:25 -0500

Well if you were like me sitting in my house watching the Presidential debates last night you were probably surprised (ok I thought I would fall out of my seat) to hear John McCain drop a bomb...a substantial new program for homeowners. I was sitting there wondering:

How many bailouts can our economy handle?
What are the details of this plan?

I heard New's pundits say the plan would cost $300 Billion dollars (Does anyone else remember when that was considered A LOT like of money?

Is anyone else getting numb and having a hard time keeping up with all the blank checks being written...$700 Billion here, oh I mean $850 Billion after pork...now $300 Billion more ).

Part of me thought, "I've gotta get a money printing machine like the Government has - if only our personal budgets worked that way". Now I'd definitely love to see our Pinellas Real Estate home prices stabilize, however, I seriously worry about the "unintended consequences" when the government start "managing our real estate market". This plan is targeted at home sellers facing foreclosure and those who own homes that are now worth less than they owe, hence the negative equity position. If you're not sure what your neighborhood values are doing - Get today's Pinellas Real Estate Market Report , a FREE service that gives you real time results based on the Pinellas Suncoast MLS today and see graphs and info for YOUR actually Pinellas County neighborhood.

John McCain's proposal for Home Sellers Facing Foreclosure

McCain's says the plan's goal is to keep families in their homes, avoid foreclosures, save failing neighborhoods, stabilize the housing market and attack the roots of our financial crisis. (We'd all like to see the housing market stablized)

Who benefits from new Home Mortgage Plan?

America’s families are bearing a heavy burden from falling housing prices, mortgage delinquencies, foreclosures, and a weak economy. (The assumption is because the had the wrong mortgage)

How will the Home Mortgage Plan work?

For those that cannot make payments, mortgages must be re-structured to put losses on the books and put homeowners in manageable mortgages.
Lenders in these cases must recognize the loss that they’ve already suffered.
The McCain Resurgence Plan would purchase mortgages directly from homeowners and mortgage servicers, and replace them with manageable, fixed-rate home mortgages that will keep families in their homes.
By purchasing the existing, failing home mortgages the McCain resurgence plan will eliminate uncertainty over defaults, support the value of mortgage-backed derivatives and alleviate risks that are freezing financial markets.

Who qualifies for American Home Ownership Resurgence Plan?

The McCain resurgence plan would be available to mortgage holders that:

Live in the home (primary residence only)
Can prove their creditworthiness at the time of the original loan (no falsifications and provided a down payment).

What kind of new mortgage would home owners get?

An FHA-guaranteed fixed-rate mortgage at terms manageable for the homeowner. (I'd love to know what this means in practice not theory)

What will this Home Owner Mortgage Plan Cost Taxpayers?

The direct cost of this plan would be roughly $300 billion because the purchase of mortgages would relieve homeowners of “negative equity” in some homes.
Funds will come from Congress recent financial market stabilization bill;

Their believe is that this plan could be implemented quickly as a result of the authorities provided in the stabilization bill, the recent housing bill, and the U.S. government's conservatorship of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. It may be necessary for Congress to raise the overall borrowing limit of FHA loans.

So I'm curious - do you think this plan is a good thing or a bad thing?

Clearwater Auto Accident Attorneys | Simple Tips Can Change your Life after Car Crash

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:10:51 -0500

Clearwater Auto Accident - Motorcycle Crash - Now What do you Do?

Clearwater FLorida - One of the great parts about living in Pinellas County and the Clearwater area for 18 years is you really get to know a lot of business people and service providers in both a personal and professional way. I have personally unfortunately been in more than one Clearwater car accident in the last few years (none my fault in case you were wondering) and unfortunately there are lots of things I didn't know until I was (1) injured in an auto accident and (2) hand bad auto accident care and advice! However whether you're in a car crash, truck accident or suffer from a motorcycle injury - you need this info because I can tell you that if you or a loved one is in injured in one of these kinds of traffic accidents it's not overreacting in my humble opinion to contact a caring, experienced Clearwater Auto Accident Attorney to be YOUR advocate!! Like most crisis - it's always helpful if you've done your research and have a plan BEFORE you have to ask, "Who's the best Pinellas County Auto Injury Attorney?" when you're still in shock!

Clearwater Resident Thankful for Helpful Personal Injury Lawyer

I have found that St Peterburg - Clearwater personal injury attorney David Neville, who has been helping people injured, often through no fault of their own, in Pinellas County for years makes a bad experience have the best possible outcome. In my experience, he does a great job and really cares about each client and their family (which is first and foremost for us). I was actually in a Clearwater car accident a few years ago and David was my attorney and when friends and neighbors I know are in a car crash I immediately recommended Clearwater Auto Injury attorney, David Neville to them.

Well while anyone who's been through a car accident knows, recovery is often a long process and you're dealing with the emotional recovery, as well as, your physical injuries (some of which we will live with forever) need to be taken care of. My friends still thanks me for recommending an experienced skilled auto injury lawyer to them after being in Pinellas County car accidents. David was able to negotiate a favorable settlement for me and othes and while money doesn't heal all - it definitely helps you get the care you need and get back on your feet after you go through something I wouldn't wish on anyone.

Most of us don't have reasons to see any kind of lawyers or attorneys very often and I have to admit I always feel a little intimidated (like being called into the principals office even if it's not your fault). While it's normal to feel a little nervous - I know if you're like me, you'll appreciate David Neville's warm smile and his relaxed style as he works to listen and understand your personal situation which really puts me at ease (while being a pitbull when working FOR me). Being comfortable really talking to my attorney...who is my advocate was really important in my experience. There can be "no dumb questions" and I always want a skilled personal injury attorney who listens to me and my needs and my desires.

Clearwater Car Crash, Fender Benders & Truck Accidents - Info I hope you never have to use!

When I was in my first car crash several years ago (a car ran a red light and side swiped me in an intersection where I did a 180 degree turn and totaled my car I actually was able by some blessing to walk away - many people aren't so lucky) I thought it was no big deal physically - even though I knew my car was totalled.

Luckily I did know enough to see a doctor immediately for a check up regardless of how I felt. I come from a family that believes if you aren't bleeding or throwing up you're fine (Can anyone else relate?) - well based on that criteria I was fine...only I wasn't. Unfortunately I went to my primary care physician for a check up and he refered me to what I would say is the "puppy mills" for people who have been personally injured in a car accident.

I did some things right - I had seen a doctor and followed his advice on the next step - however I made the mistake of not getting an experienced Pinellas County personal injury attorney working as my advocate and looking out for me from the beginning. Thankfully a friend referred me to one of the best accident injury lawyers in Clearwater - St Petersburg while I was still having appointments in the "puppy mill" process.

I think I was like most people in car accidents, I'm not someone looking to sue anyone and I also didn't want to spend money talking to a lawyer - even if I did want to get their opinion. I didn't know that they get paid like I get paid as a realtor - ultimately if we can achieve a successful outcome we get paid. I'm so glad I know a better now.

The result - the experience that followed was like night and day. I was ultimately able to get the care and injury rehabilitation that I needed. I have to say that I also learned Clearwater's best chiropractor makes all the difference (but that's a story for another post)

While I am not an attorney or lawyer and am not giving legal advice here just sharing my personal experiences (Please call David Neville, Attorney in Law at or your own personal injury attorney if you have questions) here's what I've learned from mine along the way ...

6 Things To Do Immediately when in a Car Accident in Pinellas County

If possible, photograph all damage to you, the car, the others involved in all cars as well and anything else that makes sense.

Always call the local police, no matter how minor you believe the crash to be and make sure they

Get a copy of the Drivers' Exchange Information Form from police

Get all the insurance documentation regarding your own car and/or the car you were riding in

Seek legal advice as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are preserved

It is essential to have a medical evaluation at the first sign of injury following a collision.

So while I hope you, your family or friends never needs this information - if you do at least you'll know where to turn for the help you need.

If you want more info or to get a FREE consultation call David Neville, Attorney on his cell phone at 727-481-3072 - he's available when you need him!

His office is located at: 6251 Park Boulevard Suite 9 Pinellas Park, FL 33781

P.S. Tell him Cyndee told you to call -

Clearwater Homes for Sale in Morningside Estates - 2255 Habersham Dr

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 06:52:54 -0500

Clearwater Homes for Sale in Morningside

Clearwater Florida - Check out this 2 bedroom one and half bath ranch home in Morningside Estates. Great home for first time homebuyers or our winter residents

Cyndee and Jack Haydon | Belloise Realty | 727-710-8036

2255 Habersham Drive, Clearwater, FL

Clearwater home in Morningside Estates under $180000

2BR/1.5BA Single Family House

offered at $179,999

Year Built	1964
Sq Footage	1,297
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	7,500 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Come home to this well maintained 2-bedroom home in popular Morningside Estates. This home features an airconditioned florida room, living-dining room combination and an eat-in kitchen floor plan with large rooms, bathroom with updated sinks and vanity, .5 bath in garage, fresh paint, newer interior doors, kitchen pantry and washer and dryer. Owner measured the home and reports the square footage is 1,297 with the florida room. You'll love the neighborhood with the park featuring racquetball, playground, basketball court, tennis courts, and swimming pool. You are close to Plumb Elementary, Oak Grove Middle School and Clearwater High School, with an easy commute to Tampa, and St Petersburg.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Family room
Living room	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Attic	Washer
Dryer	Laundry area - garage	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Swimming pool(s)	Tennis court(s)	Lake
Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Racquetball courts

Basketball courts

Volleyball courts

Sidewalks throughout

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Cyndee and Jack Haydon

Belloise Realty

727-710-8036

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Aug 20, 2008, 2:37am PDT

Real Estate in Clearwater

Are you looking to buy Clearwater Pool Homes, Pinellas County Luxury Properties? Clearwater Florida real estate? Did you know you can search all the homes for sale in the Tampa Bay MLS now with no pressure at your leisure or feel free to call us today at (727) 710-8036 to answer any of your questions. Here's what some of our past clients have to say about how we helped them....** CLICK ON PHOTOS BELOW TO SEE CLIENT VIDEO TESTIMONIALS **

Pinellas County Home Buyers tell us that selecting a Pinellas County Real Estate Agent especially online or from a distance, can be a challenge. Some of our past clients agreed to share their experiences and tell you why they think you should work with us.Click on the photos below and meet some of our clients and now friends...we'd love to be YOUR choice too!

*The above information and images are Copyright © 2008 Cyndee and Jack Haydon, Clearwater Realtors your Pinellas County Real Estate resource and may not be copied, reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed or published. All rights reserved. Plagiarism will be detected and is punishable by law.

Burning Down the House

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:21:58 -0500

Local Tampa Mortgage expert, Dave Presnell shares his thoughts on the recent takeover of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. It's still too early to know what the fall out will be but I have no doubt it's going to be significant and probably be like unpleasant medicine to swallow when we finally have to address the issues.

I am letting buyers interested in Clearwater Real Estate - now is the time to get serious. Rates dropped on this news and rules stayed the same in the short term - many believe next year both will be less attractive and we already have some of the best prices we've seen in years.

If you'd like to discuss buying property further just give me a call at (727) 710-8035 or if you have Tampa Bay mortgage questions I highly recommend you give Dave at his office number 813-514-4993 or his cell phone number 813-690-0591

Via Dave Presnell:

Consider this:

Your neighbor, a heavy smoker, falls asleep while holding a lit cigarette and his house catches fire. He smells the smoke, realizes his life and property are in danger and calls the fire department. You hear the commotion outside, walk down your driveway and learn what's going on.

Do you get angry at the fire department for responding to an obvious crisis caused completely by your neighbor's carelessness? Do you insist that the firefighters leave immediately and let your neighbor's home burn to the ground? Do you insist the tobacco company that made the cigarettes, the truck driver who delivered them to the convenience store where your neighbor bought the cigarettes, or the clerk there who took his money come put out the fire instead?

No, of course not. You may be upset with your neighbor for his carelessness, but you realize that allowing his house to burn puts yours at risk from burning embers. Doing nothing could well lead to your own home burning down, too.

Metaphorically speaking, thousands of U.S. taxpayers are enraged today that the federal government is stepping in to put their neighbor's house fire out.

Over the weekend, the government announced that it is placing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mack into receivership- in effect, taking them over. Already TV news commentators are fanning angry taxpayer's flames by saying it will ultimately cost them untold billions and billions of dollars. Taxpayers are angry, they say, because they will have to bear the cost of other people's greed and poor decision making that led to the housing and credit slump we currently are experiencing.

While they may rightfully be enraged about the causes of the current problems, to vent their anger at the government for this and other recent actions makes about as much sense as yelling at the fire department for responding to a fire. Ultimately, doing nothing will cost taxpayers far more than "putting out the fire" will. I understand their frustration at having to foot the bill (hey, I'm a taxpayer, too!). However, I also understand how the market works. Without some assurance to investors in these securities that they will get paid, interest rates will rise, mortgage financing will become harder and harder to obtain, and the housing market will continue to languish. Home values would drop or stagnate for an even longer period of time which ultimately could cost taxpayers more. Most people don't see that though because the talking heads on TV will play up the fact that taxpayers are footing the bill for (fill in the blank- buyers, realtors, mortgage lenders, whomever your favorite villain du jour is) greed and bad decision making.

This fire was caused by poor decision making on the part of a lot of people- buyers, realtors, mortgage lenders, investment houses and investors on Wall Street, just to name a few. Just as with a house fire, the first and immediate action is to put the fire out. Then investigate the cause and take corrective (and preventative) action. Don't tell the fire department to pack up and leave.

Big View = Big Windows = Big Problems

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 10:27:34 -0500

This article was written by a good California Realtor friend of mine and I thought my readers would enjoy it because it made me think of the oceanfront views people want when buying Clearwater Beach real estate.

Jeff points out some things people don't think about. While that western sunset is beautiful it's important to know that there are some other things to plan for!

The additional cost for most Clearwater Beach condos and homes is that you need to plan to protect those views with hurricane panels or storm protection of some kind. It's obvious at this time of year with all the hurricane activity we're seeing.

Florida actually has a law that will now require all high risk properties to be protected to get insurance by 2011. I have a local expert planning to share more with us in the near future so stay tuned for more on that topic.

In the mean time - this is a great start when planning to buy your Clearwater beach property. (Feel free to Search all Clearwater beach condos for sale now)

Via Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate:

Many buyers in the San Diego area are hoping for big views when purchasing a home.

Nothing wrong with that...and there are lots of great views to enjoy here in paradise. The ocean or San Diego Bay, the mountains, panorama, city lights, golf courses and lagoons are some of the things that folks want to look at outside big windows in their homes. And will pay for that opportunity.

There's a price for that.

Two prices, in fact.

One, view homes generally cost more. You can't easily put a price tag on it, but typically comparable homes with views versus those without will enjoy a bigger price tag. How much depends on the view and what someone is willing to pay. Ocean views seem to be the priciest, and the closer you are to that beautiful blue sea the more costly. Could be a few hundred thousand dollars or more for a terrific ocean view versus none. Ocean frontage view can add millions.

Coupled with this is a desire for big windows. After all, a great view doesn't do you much good if you can't enjoy it through expansive glass, which in turn adds more interior light and a feeling of spaciousness. Homes with views are often built with large windows for this reason, or owners remodel to bring as much of the view indoors as possible, to meld the indoors and outdoors in true Southern California fashion. Understandably, floor to ceiling windows and glass doors are popular with those who have dramatic views. Some sliding doors can even disappear into the wall to truly bring that great view right into the house.

The second price, however, for some view homes is the sun. And, more accurately, sun damage. This is especially true of our western-facing homes which have, as one would hope, fabulous sunset views over the ocean. Easterly facing homes, however, can get some pretty intense sunlight, too.

The impact of the sun on these homes can be dramatic:

increased heat in the afternoons, thus driving up the costs of cooling

significant bright light which can require the use of some short of curtains or shades in order to enjoy the space in the afternoons (which negate the view);

harmful UV rays which can discolor, and damage, flooring, carpet, furniture and artwork.

Technology has improved significantly in recent years with respect to glass, with options that allow one to reduce the glare, heat and sun damage. Curtains and shades have been available for ages, but new systems allow for motorized systems (shades, screens and drapes) that can respond to the amount of light itself (for both interior and exterior installation). Solar screens these days can block a large percentage of the ultraviolet rays and the glare but allow outstanding visibility of the scenery.

On the horizon? Manufactured glass (solar glass) that can generate electricity and still allow a significant portion of light through.

Some of these observations about large windows and sun might be rather obvious, and one would hope that folks who are buying these views might give it some thought, and prepare themselves to spend the money to protect their furnishings and art work, and deal with the heat and light issues they will inherit. I suspect many do not give it much consideration, or even think about it. They should.

And there is, of course, the opposite perspective -

if you have fabulous views out through huge windows, don't the folks outside have equally good views in?

My daughter shared a terrific article with me from the Wall Street Journal on this subject, which I just now read after writing this. I invite you to take a look. There are some valid points about big windows to consider. And a bit of humor. Quite frankly, though, I find it hard to feel sorry for the poor grad student in the $1.5 million dollar apartment whose $20K sofas were damaged by the sun, among other things resulting from her fab views. Not too bright (pun intended).

Views can be wonderful, but they come with a cost. Think about it.

Q: A:	How much is the tax credit? The tax credit would be $8,000 or 10% of the purchase price, whichever is less.
Q: A:	Who is eligible? Similar to the $7,500 tax credit included in the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, the $8,000 tax credit (included in the 2009 economic stimulus plan) is available for the purchase of the primary residence by first-time homebuyers.
Q: A:	If this is for first-time homebuyers, how do I know if I am eligible for the tax credit? According to the IRS, any taxpayer who has not owned a home during the 3 years prior to the date of purchase can qualify for the credit.
Q: A:	Do I have to repay the $8,000.? No. Unlike the previous $7,500 tax credit, the $8,000. does not have to be repaid UNLESS, the home is sold within three years of purchase; at that time, the credit will be reversed.
Q: A:	Are there any income limitations on the tax credit? Yes. The tax credit is strictly for individuals with adjusted gross income of under $75,000 or $150,000 for joint filers.