Omaha Real Estate Blog

Oregon REALTOR® David Somerville Says Beaverton Will Continue To Attract Portland Commuters To The Area

2012-02-15T11:38:00.001-08:00

PORTLAND, Ore. - Portland REALTOR® David Somerville says the Beaverton suburb of Portland will continue to attract commuters in 2012 due to lifestyle and real estate values.

With Beaverton homes for sale currently ranging from $130,000 to $4.5 million, there are plenty of choices available for would-be Beaverton residents, and all within less than fiftenn minutes of Downtown Portland.

Somerville says the convenient access to Portland with Beaverton's location off of Highway 26 (Sunset Highway) is one of the features that appeals to so many buyers, but the wide variety of homes in every price range also helps.

"The Portland real estate market broadly includes several outlying communities such as Beaverton, and commuters especially love it. It's less than 8 miles from the center of Portland, and you can buy a lot of house for the money in Beaverton."

He says Beaverton real estate values are particularly plentiful in the $250,000 to $400,000 price range, with an abundance of bank owned homes on the market affecting inventory levels.

"Buyers can currently get a lot for their money in Hillsboro. In the Portland MLS right now, I can find 2700 s.f. homes under $250,000."

Somerville says there may never have been a better time to get into the market for Beaverton homes.

"With the job market in Portland relatively stable and interest rates extremely low, it's hard to think of a better opportunity for first time home buyers or anyone wanting to buy a home to check out what's available."

About David Somerville

David Somerville is a full time REALTOR® with an extensive knowledge of the entire Portland Oregon metro area. His knowledge of local neighborhoods proves valuable to Portland real estate buyers and sellers alike, whether they are in the Downtown area, or suburbs such as Hillsboro, West Linn, Beaverton, Tigard, and Lake Oswego real estate.

David Somerville
5 Centerpointe Dr. Suite 150
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
503-789-7633
http://www.maxwellsinclair.com
dave@maxwellsinclair.com

Lee and Associates Closes $12 Million Industrial Transaction

2012-02-10T15:48:00.001-08:00

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. - Lee & Associates, one of the largest national commercial real estate providers with regional expertise, has closed a $12 million sale consisting of two industrial buildings located at 11161 Slater and 17375 Mount Herrmann in Fountain Valley, Calif. With both properties totaling 113,857 square feet, the transaction amount is one of the largest in Orange County this year.

Senior Vice Presidents and Principals Pat Lacey and Jim Snyder of Lee Newport Beach represented the seller, PPII, LLC, a private real estate owner based in Orange County. The buyer and existing tenant in both buildings, Seven Pacific, represented itself.

Seven Pacific, which will continue to occupy the two large industrial buildings, uses the properties for mechanical engineering, design, manufacturing and vehicle integration.

About Lee & Associates

Celebrating 32 years of leadership excellence in commercial real estate, Lee & Associates is the largest broker-owned firm in the nation, with 45 locations across the nation including California, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. With a roster of more than 600 expert brokers, Lee & Associates provides a wide range of specialized commercial real estate services. Additional information is available at www.lee-associates.com

About Press Release Distribution

Distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on 25 Greenwich Road Smithtown NY see Smithtown Real Estate.

Damaged Credit The Norm For Home Buyers Says Albuquerque NM Real Estate Agent Joe Maez

2012-02-07T12:37:00.001-08:00

Albuquerque, NM - Less than perfect credit is the norm for home buyers rebuilding their lives in the aftermath of the mortgage credit crisis, according to Albuquerque REALTOR® Joe Maez.

Maez says that it's increasingly rare for buyers to come to him looking to buy their dream piece of Albuquerque real estate with perfect credit.

"Most buyers today have been scarred by the craziness that has gone on in the mortgage industry in recent years, and in some ways, it's the new normal."

He says he regularly sees buyers turning their finances around to be able to buy a home again after a short sale, foreclosure, or just a period of unemployment that led to negative credit profiles. Those who are buying homes, he says, are working hard to fix past money issues with better savings plans.

"I encourage my clients to start early correcting past credit report errors, and most of all, make every credit payment on time consistently. With some time and distance between past negative items and current ability to pay, most people will be able to buy a home again in no time."

Maez coaches buyers who want to qualify for a home loan to pay down any credit accounts to below at least 50% of the credit limit. He says this is a key ratio that lenders look at, along with other factors such as income and on-time payments.

He says even former short sellers can buy again in as little as two years, depending on circumstances.

"If you're looking for any type of Albuquerque real estate in the area, including Corrales, Los Lunas, or Rio Rancho real estate, please give me a call."

About Joe Maez REALTOR®

Joe Maez is a proven real estate professional who knows how to do things right. Every day he is out there working to make the home-buying or -selling process easier for his clients. Regardless of which way the market has gone, Maez's sales have gone up every year. He says, “If you really do a good job, you’ll always have clients,” and his track record proves it.

Joe, who has personally sold more than 500 homes in Rio Rancho and Albuquerque, has unique and extensive knowledge of the local markets. He works regularly in the Albuquerque New Mexico market, covering Rio Rancho, Corrales, and Los Lunas Real Estate.

For more information, contact:

Joe Maez REALTOR®
Keller Williams Realty Westside
8100 Wyoming Blvd NE
M4 #234
Albuquerque, NM 87113
505-401-5775
joemaez@gmail.com

Historically Low Interest Rates Means Portland Real Estate is More Affordable For First Time Buyers

2012-02-06T11:47:00.001-08:00

PORTLAND, Ore. – Continued easing from the Federal Reserve is driving historically low interest rates for Portland OR real estate buyers says local REALTOR® David Somerville.

According to Somerville, the Fed's attempts to revitalize the economy with low interest rates should be seen as a gift for anyone wanting to buy a home right now, because low interest rates significantly lower the cost and risk of buying a home.

"I know from experience that some buyers won't decide to purchase Portland real estate until interest rates start to rise again. By that time, prices are likely to have already started to rise as well."

He says that means buyers who wait too long may get neither the lowest rates nor the lowest prices.

"I've never seen the national average for interest rates this low at only 3.85%. Someone who buys a $200,000 home can have a mortgage payment of less than $1000. You can buy a lot for $200,000!"

Somerville sees more first time homebuyers and investors entering the market for Portland homes for sale as a result of lower interest rates.

"This is a great time to get into a new home, in my opinion. No matter what the Fed does in the future, I think we'll look back on this period as a great opportunity for buyers."

About David Somerville

David Somerville is a full time REALTOR® with an extensive knowledge of the entire Portland Oregon metro area. His knowledge of local neighborhoods proves valuable to Portland real estate buyers and sellers alike, whether they are in the Downtown area, or suburbs such as Lake Oswego real estate, Hillsboro real estate, West Linn, Beaverton, and Tigard.

David Somerville
5 Centerpointe Dr. Suite 150
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
503-789-7633
http://www.maxwellsinclair.com
dave@maxwellsinclair.com

Key West Real Estate Market Report Issued By Local REALTOR® Sean Farrer

2012-02-02T15:30:00.001-08:00

KEY WEST, Fla. - Key West, Florida real estate agent Sean Farrer issued a real estate market report for the area based on recent sold statistics and trends he has observed in the market.

Farrer says that sales in 2012 are already starting off well.

"With our peak season already here, last month saw a total of 48 Key West real estate properties sold. Those were comprised of 25 single family homes, 22 condos, and a commercial property."

He says that contingent and pending transactions for December 2011 totaled 121 transactions, with a total of 438 active listings.

"The number of listings on the market is slightly lower than it would normally be, due to a shortage of inventory in certain price levels of the Key West Real Estate market."

Farrer says that with interest rates remaining below 4% for a fixed 30 year mortgage, the Key West area is seeing more home buyers, with a lot of FHA loans since the 3.5% down makes the down payment more affordable to first time home buyers.

"Many folks from out of town are very surprised at how affordable it is to live in Key West. We have a lot of snow birds come here for their cold season back home because our comfortably warm climate, but a good many of them decide to stay year round once they get used to the relaxed island lifestyle."

About Sean Farrer

Sean Farrer is an expert in the local Key West real estate market, covering Key West, Old Town Key West, Key Haven, Stock Island, Boca Chica Key Homes, Big Coppitt Key Homes, Bay Point, Sugarloaf Key, Cudjoe Key, Ramrod Key, Summerland Key, Little Torch Key and Big Pine Key.

Originally from South Africa, Farrer moved to the Florida Keys over 13 years ago. He enjoys helping folks who are looking for a dream home and an island lifestyle to find both in the beautiful Key West area. With previous careers in management and IT services, he is very organized with a dedication to customer service that shows in his work with Key West real estate buyers and sellers.

A buyer's time spent with Sean looking for Key West homes will be fun and productive, and he provides a wealth of insight on the best neighborhoods for price and lifestyle, regardless of age or income bracket. Farrer is an expert at helping out of town visitors buy a second home in Key West.

Sean Farrer
1201 #101 White St
Key West, FL 33040
305-924-0700
http://key-west-real-estate.net

2012 Orlando Real Estate Market To Be Active Says Orlando Florida Real Estate Firm

2012-02-02T13:29:00.001-08:00

Orlando, FL - While global financial markets continue to express uncertainty, one Florida real estate firm says the 2012 Orlando market is almost certain to be an active one.

Jonathan de Jesus of Dominium Realty Group specializes in Orlando real estate, and says that market in the upcoming year is bound to be busy for local agents.

"We are likely to see a steady flow of bank owned homes and Orlando foreclosures come on the market, and although that could continue to pressure prices for sellers, it will continue to present buying opportunities for buyers."

He says that Orlando short sales are likely to continue to be a popular way for sellers to get their home sold when they owe more than their house is worth. These will also provide good opportunities for buyers to get pre-foreclosure homes before they go offline to linger in bankers' files for months during the foreclosure process.

With new home construction likely to continue to be at a standstill, the existing Orlando area housing market is going to be the strongest real estate sales category in 2012.

"The nice benefit of buying in Orlando real estate market is that Disney World will always be a magnet for world tourism. This brings a certain amount of price stability that other markets just don't have."

"Of course, the warm weather year-round certainly doesn't hurt!"

About Dominium Realty

Dominium Realty Group is a leader in residential real estate brokerage services in Florida with expertise helping U.S. and international clients navigate the Orlando real estate market. Through its experienced team of real estate professionals and their commitment to exceed their clients’ expectations, Dominium is able to confidently deliver solutions to meet the needs of any real estate client.

Included in the company's extensive array of specialized offerings are Dominium's expert property management services. With licensed specialists working close with investors, clients get the most effective property management possible for their real estate portfolios. Dominium agents are experts in the Orando market, including Downtown Orlando homes, Windermere Homes, Dr. Phillips Real Estate, Maitland, Winter Park, Lake Mary Real Estate, Baldwin Park, Metro West, Longwood, South Orlando, Kissimmee, Winter Springs, Oviedo, Lake Nona, Waterford Lakes, Altamonte Springs, Mount Dora, Sanford, Apopka, Winter Garden, and Ocoee.

For more information, please contact:

Jonathan De Jesus
Dominium Realty Group
6236 Kingspointe Parkway #10
Orlando, Fl 32819
407-588-7828
http://www.florida-real-estate.pro

Cold Winter in Northern States Yields Hot Orlando Real Estate Market Says Agent Jonathan de Jesus

2012-01-31T13:53:00.001-08:00

ORLANDO, Fla - The Orlando home market isn't nearly as cold as the weather up north according to Orlando real estate agent Jonathan de Jesus of Dominium Realty Group.

De Jesus says that although the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has adjusted the home sale statistics downward for the last five years, the market is not as bad as the headlines sometimes indicate.

"There are still plenty of homes being bought and sold, particularly in a market like here in Orlando where we have plenty of warm weather and international tourism to keep things interesting."

He says that part of what's keeping the Orlando real estate market hotter than other parts of the country is simply the year-round nice weather, but he says the proximity to Disney World is a big help.

"We definitely have an advantage here in Orlando, because Walt Disney World is a big attraction for tourists around the world. Many come here, fall in love with it, and immediately notice the real estate bargains available."

He says that the weak U.S. dollar in relation to the Euro helps as well, because it keeps the prices lower for international buyers.

"With the current exchange rates, European buyers can get as much as a 23% discount on Orlando property, even with the weakening Euro. In fact, a wise European investor may actually protect their Euro cash by investing it in dollar denominated real estate assets right here in Orlando."

About Dominium Realty

Included in the company's extensive array of specialized offerings are Dominium's expert property management services. With licensed specialists working close with investors, clients get the most effective property management possible for their real estate portfolios. Dominium agents are experts in the Orando market, including Downtown Orlando homes, Windermere Homes, Dr. Phillips, Maitland, Winter Park, Lake Mary, Baldwin Park, Metro West, Longwood, South Orlando, Kissimmee, Winter Springs, Oviedo, Lake Nona, Waterford Lakes, Altamonte Springs, Mount Dora, Sanford, Apopka, Winter Garden, and Ocoee.

Jonathan De Jesus
Dominium Realty Group
6236 Kingspointe Parkway #10
Orlando, Fl 32819
407-588-7828
http://www.florida-real-estate.pro/

Foreclosure Inventory To Bring Out Bargain Hunters Says Meridian Real Estate Agent John Espinosa

2012-01-31T11:10:00.001-08:00

MERIDIAN, Ida. - Meridian REALTOR® John Espinosa sees foreclosure inventory of bank owned homes likely continuing to bring out bargain hunters through 2012, bringing with it exceptional prices.

Depending on what economic policies the federal government adopts, Espinosa says Idaho real estate buyers will likely see continued low interest rates through this election year as an attempt by Washington policy-makers to stimulate the economy.

"The combination of low rates and the steady drip of bank owned homes into the market means continued low prices for buyers who are ready to dip their feet in the market again."

He says some buyers have been gun-shy about re-entering the real estate market, whether it's for Meridian real estate, which maintains relatively higher demand than many other Treasure Valley cities, or Eagle real estate, where expensive estates from the boom years are going for pennies on the dollar now.

But he says buyers shouldn't rely on the headlines to tell them when to buy.

"Buying a home is a very personal decision, and families should base it on their own circumstances. Growing families still need to move into bigger homes. Empty nesters still want to downsize, no matter what the market looks like."

Espinosa also says he's seeing plenty of trading up as low prices have brought more desirable neighborhoods into reach of the average buyer.

"The key is to engage with the market and watch for those bargains. Anyone can do that for free on my website www.MeridianIDHomes.com and get access to the entire database of Idaho MLS listings.

About John Espinosa

John Espinosa is an Idaho real estate agent specializing in the Treasure Valley. Covering Boise to Parma and everything in between, John is an expert on Boise, Nampa, Caldwell, Eagle, Kuna, Star, Middleton, and Meridian real estate.

John Espinosa
RE/MAX Advantage
5680 E Franklin Rd, Suite 100
Nampa ID 83687
208-484-7837
http://www.meridianidhomes.com
john@espirealestate.com

San Jose Property Management Company Helps Accidental Landlords Become Intentional Investors

2012-01-23T14:42:00.001-08:00

SAN JOSE, Calif. - While Jerry Garrity of Silicon Valley's First Statewide Realty works with a long list of properties for seasoned Bay Area investors who use his San Jose property management services, he also has a growing portfolio of another abundant asset type: properties whose owners had trouble selling them.

He says this growing phenomenon is a result of the real estate market not cooperating with the original plans of many homeowners. His advice, rather than accept an undesirable price, is to think differently.

"I've found that many people who have had trouble selling their home for their preferred price can turn a negative into a positive and actually use their circumstance to nudge themselves into real estate investing."

"Often, investing in real estate is something they've been wanting to do for years, and just didn't know how to go about it. We show them how."

Garrity says that he's been able to teach these new clients what his more seasoned investors already know – that there is wisdom in owning real estate in any market.

"Home prices go up and down, and our property management firm has weathered five recessions in the last 20 years. What new investors need to know is that price fluctuation is less important than cash flow."

He says that most homeowners only read the headlines and end up buying when prices are going up and selling when prices are going down. Smart investors, on the other hand, buy when prices are going down, not to flip the homes, but to produce a steady stream of cash flow.

"When I'm able to find a way to make the numbers work for new clients, it's exciting to see the light bulbs go off. It's certainly a rewarding part of what I do, because I've been able to help frustrated sellers become very knowledgeable real estate investors."

About First Statewide Realty

Jerry Garrity's First Statewide Realty is a seasoned expert in property management whose expertise has been featured in the Wall Street Journal and other publications. His professional property management San Jose company specializes in managing single family homes, condominiums, townhouses and other investment property in the greater San Jose metropolitan area. His Cupertino property management firm has been in business for over 21 years, and is a member of the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors, Silicon Valley Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors, California Association of Realtors, Tri-County Apartment Association and National Association of Residential Property Managers.

Jerry Garrity
First Statewide Realty
20045 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Suite 2-D
Cupertino, CA 95014
Tel: 408-253-1000
Lic#: 01036982

Lee and Associates Completes Office Lease in Downtown Riverside

2011-12-27T12:16:00.001-08:00

RIVERSIDE, Calif. - Lee & Associates, one of the largest national commercial real estate providers with regional expertise, has completed a 10-year lease for the Citrus Tower located at 3390 University Avenue. The 35,000-square-foot office lease represents approximately 25 percent of the building, which is currently under construction and set to be completed in April 2012. Rich Erickson, Dave Mudge and Tom Pierik, senior vice presidents of the Lee & Associates Riverside office, represented the landlord, Regional Properties, Inc.

The six-story, domed Citrus Tower is the only office building under construction in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Located in the heart of Downtown Riverside, the building offers incredible visibility and high quality office space.

Aaron Wright and Andy Lustgarten of Studley, Inc. represented the tenant, Best Best & Krieger, LLP, one of Riverside’s oldest law firms with more than 200 attorneys in eight offices in California and one office in Washington, D.C. The new office at Citrus Tower will be only a few blocks away from its original office at Eighth Street and Main.

"This will be one of Downtown Riverside’s prime office spaces," said Erickson. "Despite the challenging local economy, the building has and will attract the highest quality tenants in the marketplace, as evidenced by Best Best & Krieger."

About Lee & Associates

Celebrating more than 32 years of leadership excellence in commercial real estate, Lee & Associates is the largest broker-owned firm in the nation, with 45 locations across the nation including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. With a roster of nearly 700 expert brokers, Lee & Associates provides a wide range of specialized commercial real estate services. Additional information is available at www.lee-associates.com.

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on Key West Real Estate Investing, see the Key West real estate website of Sean Farrer, REALTOR®.

Southern California Property Managers Find Cost Savings For Owners With Synthetic Grass Lawns

2011-12-22T14:46:00.001-08:00

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – With real estate investors snapping up bargains on income property due to weak housing prices, a company specializing in synthetic lawn installation is getting the message out to property management companies that their clients can improve their cash flow each month in many cases by installing synthetic grass in place of water-hogging and upkeep-intensive sod.

Scot Wozniak of San Diego Lawns, Inc., says he can help property managers run the numbers to see if their properties under management can benefit from converting their real grass lawns to great-looking synthetic lawns.

"Owners have been very interested in our product, because it looks and feels very much like real grass, yet it can save a considerable amount of money each month on the water bill and on landscape maintenance."

He says that on a cash basis, owner typically can recoup their investment in a few years, but if the project is financed, the water savings and elimination of lawn maintenance can offset the payments on installation.

"In a market like this where investors needs to squeeze every little bit of cash flow out of their investment property, property management companies would do well to suggest this option to their clients."

While Wozniak says that a synthetic lawn installation is a very real way to increase the long term investment returns on a property, he also notes that there are other benefits.

"Synthetic lawns are very environmentally friendly and much safer for children and for those with allergies. It eliminates harsh chemicals like weed killers and fertilizers, and saves a lot of money each year because artificial turf looks great year-round without the chemical treatments."

About San Diego Lawns, Inc.

Scot Wozniak of San Diego Lawns, Inc. has been installing synthetic lawns in the San Diego area for years with an impressive record of customer satisfaction. He provides free cost estimates and cost savings projects based on reduced water usage and lawn maintenance costs. San Diego Lawns, Inc. serves the entire San Diego metro area, including Chula Vista, La Mesa, El Cajon, Del Cerro, Del Mar, La Jolla, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Escondido, Poway, Scripps Ranch, Rancho Sante Fe, Coronado, National City, Bonita, Imperial Beach, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Point Loma Leucadia, Oceanside, and Spring Valley.

Scot Wozniak
President
San Diego Lawns, Inc.
1035 Surrey Dr
Bonita CA 91902
619-495-0722
http://www.sandiegolawns.com/
scot@sdlawns.com

Idaho Real Estate Agent Don Wixom Says Meridian Real Estate Market Has Fewest Vacancies

2011-12-22T03:52:00.001-08:00

MERIDIAN, Ida. - Don Wixom, broker/owner of RE/MAX Advantage in Nampa, Idaho, says that Meridian market continues to maintain the lowest vacancy rates for pre-existing homes in the Treasure Valley. He says this is a testament to Meridian's strength as a place to buy, and is due to a number of factors affecting the Idaho real estate market.

Wixom says that some of the more popular subdivisions in many price ranges are in Meridian, making Meridian more attractive to a wider set of buyers.

"Meridian subdivisions tend to be newer than those in other parts of the Treasure Valley. Schools are great, and amenities like shopping and freeway access are great as well."

He says that the benefits Meridian has going for it mean buyers will pay a little more to live there, but property values have also been much more stable in Meridian than elsewhere.

"Meridian real estate offers a level of safety for home buyers that other areas don't always have, simply because it's more in demand."

Wixom said he's helped many out-of-state buyers purchase homes in Meridian, whether it's someone who is relocating due to a job transfer in the Boise area, or someone fleeing a bigger state like California for a better quality of life.

"Meridian's proximity to Boise real estate, along with its small town feel, are two of the biggest things going for the city. It definitely attracts local and out of town buyers to the area."

"With the current market conditions, it's not hard to find good deals, including Meridian short sales, foreclosures, and traditional home sales."

Vacant Treasure Valley Pre-Existing Home Inventory

Nampa: 37%
Caldwell: 32%
Meridian: 21%
Boise: 34%
Kuna: 32%

###

About Don Wixom

Don Wixom specializes in representing his clients in the purchase and sale of Idaho real estate, including residential, commercial and investment properties, covering Boise real estate as well as Nampa, Meridian, Eagle, Caldwell, Star, and Kuna. Since becoming licensed in 1996, he has averaged selling 70 homes each year.

Don’s clients have come to rely in his experience to get their homes sold and to give the best guidance in purchasing a home. Though Don has hundreds of hours in education in all aspects of real estate, he specializes in residential properties. Whether it is single-family homes or multi-family investment properties, this is where his expertise and negotiation skills are most often put to use.

Don Wixom
RE/MAX Advantage
5680 E Franklin Rd, Suite 100
Nampa ID 83687
http://www.sellidaho.com
(208) 880-5039

Key West Real Estate Agent Sean Farrer Says Tourism Brings in Home Buyers Looking For Discounts

2011-12-21T11:14:00.001-08:00

KEY WEST, Fla. - Florida real estate agent Sean Farrer says that tourism to Key West brings a steady source of home buyers as vacationers are enticed by great home prices to consider calling the island their home. Farrer says that his clients frequently got the idea to buy Key West real estate while vacationing in its year-round warm climate.

"The northern states and Canada get some pretty cold winters, and folks come here to warm up. In the process, they discover that Key West is a really nice place to live."

He says that before their holiday is over, vacationers are often asking him to look at Key West real estate listings.

"Prices are incredible right now--better than they have been in a decade or more because of all the bank owned homes on the market."

Farrer says that not only are there a high number of Key West foreclosures that translate to real estate discounts for buyers, but tourists can get all kinds of discounts from local businesses.

"One of the popular programs for tourists to get Key West hotels cheap as well as discounts on activities like parasailing, snorkeling, and Key West scuba diving, is Gold Card Key West."

About Sean Farrer

Originally from South Africa, Sean Farrer moved to the Florida Keys over 13 years ago. He enjoys helping folks looking for a dream home and an island lifestyle find both in the beautiful Key West area. With previous careers in management and IT services, Sean is very organized with a dedication to customer service that shows in his work with Key West real estate buyers and sellers.

Your time spent with Sean looking for your dream home will be fun and productive, and he’ll provide a wealth of insight for you on the best neighborhoods to match your lifestyle, no matter your age or income bracket.

About Gold Card Key West

The Gold Card Key West program has been offering steep discounts to Key West visitors on activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, Dry Tortugas tours, kayak rentals, parasailing, and many other activities. The card has numerous participating businesses, including many restaurants for discounted dining while on the island.

Sean Farrer
1201 #101 White St
Key West, FL 33040
305-924-0700
http://key-west-real-estate.net
http://www.goldcardkeywest.com

Praxius Technology Provides Real Estate Social Media Marketing Training For Agents and Loan Officers

2011-12-20T14:16:00.001-08:00

Amherst, NH - Praxius Technology, a leading real estate marketing technology company based in New Hampshire, is launching extensive real estate social media marketing training for agents and loan officers who collaborate using the company's Lender Agent Collaborative platform.

Fred Doleac, President of Praxius Technology and Virtual Homes Real Estate, says the free training resources are designed to coach agents and lenders alike on how to build their social media profile, an increasingly important focus of online marketing in the relationship-driven real estate industry.

"Our extensive video training modules cover everything from mortgage marketing and SEO to social media marketing on Twitter and Facebook. They are offered for free as part of our Lender Agent Collaborative real estate website platform, which allows lenders to build long term, profitable relationships with real estate agents."

Doleac says that in the past, lenders could focus almost exclusively on the refinance market to grow and maintain their business. With persistently low interest rates, refinancing has slowed significantly, forcing lenders to widen their network of real estate agents to get more referral business.

"The Lender Agent Collaborative platform essentially gives lenders a RESPA compliant way to help local agents get more buyer real estate leads, and in the process, build their own referral business."

He says an essential key to building real estate buyer referrals for lenders is widening both the lenders' and agents' social networks.

"The power of social media is that it's all about relationships. We are teaching our clients how to leverage social media to build profitable relationships."

About Praxius

Praxius Technology is a leading real estate technology company with core competency in real estate website development, lead generation, and RESPA compliant lender/agent collaboration. Praxius is a division of Virtual Homes Real Estate, an independent New England real estate company with agents in 4 states.

Schedule a Webinar

Contact Praxius

Fred Doleac
Praxius Technology
55 Ponemah Road
Amherst, NH 03031
603-732-1800 or 800-856-2479
603-732-1817 Direct
Fax toll free - 888-884-0543

http://praxiustech.com/
http://praxiustechnology.com
http://virtualhomes.com

Lee and Associates Closes $6.2 Million Ontario Industrial Transaction

2011-12-20T14:11:00.001-08:00

ONTARIO, Calif. — Lee & Associates, the nation’s largest broker-owned commercial brokerage firm, has closed a $6.2 million sale of an industrial building at 4200 Mission Blvd. in Ontario, Calif.

Principals Jedd Zaun and Bill Garrett of Lee Newport Beach represented the seller, JW Irvine L.P. in the 99,534-square-foot industrial building transaction. The buyer, Sample Real Estate, LLC, was represented by Steve Bellitti and Josh Hayes of Colliers International.

"We started marketing this building last year and we received multiple offers," said Zaun, noting that the buyer opted for a lease, with an option to purchase. "And while buyers are still looking for good deals, we were able to sell this property at a ‘solid price,’ which was great."

The building will be the new corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility for American Sample Company, Inc., a national supplier of sample products to the decorative fabric, hospitality, and contract fabric trade.

About Lee & Associates

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in Portland real estate and other news topics. For more real estate information, see Property Management San Jose and Downtown Resource Group

Lee and Associates Completes 36-Month Industrial Lease on Behalf of Investment Building Group

2011-12-20T13:27:00.001-08:00

SAN BERNARDINO, Calf. - Lee & Associates, one of the largest national commercial real estate providers with regional expertise, has completed a 36-month lease for a 141,200 square-foot industrial space located at 1050 Orange Show Road, San Bernardino, Calf.

Herrick Johnson, senior vice president of the Lee & Associates Riverside office represented the landlord, Investment Building Group. The tenant, Grant & Bowman, who relocated their business from the City of Ontario, was represented by Jeff Smith, senior vice president of the Lee & Associates Ontario office.

About Lee & Associates

Celebrating more than 32 years of leadership excellence in commercial real estate, Lee & Associates is the largest broker-owned firm in the nation, with 44 locations across the nation including Arizona, California, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. With a roster of nearly 700 expert brokers, Lee & Associates provides a wide range of specialized commercial real estate services. Additional information is available at www.lee-associates.com.

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on real estate, see Key West real estate and Portland real estate.

Jerry Garrity of First Statewide Realty Property Management in San Jose Offers Executive Relocation Tips

2011-12-16T15:36:00.001-08:00

SAN JOSE, Calif. - Jerry Garrity of First Statewide Realty, who was recently interviewed for a Wall Street Journal article for his expertise in San Jose Property Management, is offering executive relocation tips to companies relocating employees to the Silicon Valley.

Garrity says the experience of two decades in real estate spanning five recessions gives him some measure of wisdom he shares with clients, whether individual investors or companies using his services for executive relocation.

"Often, companies who are relocating an employee think they are saving money by managing the details of the move internally, such as scouting for rental properties, arranging rental contracts, coordinating moving companies, etc. Inevitably, they end up wasting valuable time and money in the process."

He says that one of his first pieces of advice is that time is money, and having employees try to learn the ins and outs of real estate management consumes a lot of both.

"I highly recommend hiring an experienced property management company like First Statewide Realty to take care of the details of an employee relocation. We do this every day. There's no learning curve, we took care of that 20 years ago."

Garrity also says advises companies to view executive relocation services as an investment in their employee's productivity.

"When an employee arrives in a new home amidst the chaos of a move that wasn't well planned, it's our experience that work productivity suffers dramatically. Employees are a valuable human resource, and wasting their time and energy by imposing unnecessary stress on their home life just doesn't make sense."

Garrity says he's available to provide a full range of expert advice on taking the hassles out of employee relocation to companies.

"When an employee is being transferred to a new city, they are already dealing with enough upheaval in their life without adding extra burdens by having them deal with relocation details. We'll take the burden of dealing with their move off of their hands and give them a much easier transition."

About First Statewide Realty

Jerry Garrity is a seasoned expert in property management whose expertise has been featured in the Wall Street Journal and other publications. His professional Property Management San Jose company First Statewide Realty specializes in managing single family homes, condominiums, townhouses and other investment property in the greater San Jose metropolitan area. His Cupertino property management firm has been in business for over 21 years, and is a member of the Santa Clara County Association of Realtors, Silicon Valley Association of Realtors, National Association of Realtors, California Association of Realtors, Tri-County Apartment Association and National Association of Residential Property Managers.

Jerry Garrity
First Statewide Realty
20045 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Suite 2-D
Cupertino, CA 95014
Tel: 408-253-1000
Lic#: 01036982
Email: investments@firststatewiderealty.com
http://www.firststatewiderealty.com

Keystone Pacific Property Management Awarded Villa Vallerto Association Management Contract

2011-12-15T10:15:00.001-08:00

IRVINE, Calif. - Keystone Pacific Property Management, a leading community association management company providing management services to community associations throughout Southern California, has been selected tomanage Villa Vallerto, a 118 condominium community located in Tustin, California. Keystone Pacific will be assisting the board of directors with the daily management operations of the community.

"We are very excited to be managing Villa Vallerto," said Denise Bergstrom, vice president of association management of Keystone Pacific Property Management." With over 29 years of experience, we have conducted a smooth transition, which is key to ensure the association stays on the right track."

Built in 1973, Villa Vallerto offers an entry way, a pool, tot lot, laundry facilities, as well as manicured common area landscape. Keystone Pacific assumed professional management on December 1, 2011 and Brooks Paine, a certified community association manager, has been assigned as the manager for Villa Vallerto.

About Keystone Pacific Property Management

A leader in the community association management industry for more than 29 years, Keystone Pacific Property Management specializes exclusively in the management of common interest developments in Southern California. Currently, the firm manages over 40,000 units in master-planned, condominium, townhome, single-family home, mixed-use and commercial common interest developments. Keystone Pacific’s clients receive the best care and resources as the firm is committed to providing superior community association services. Keystone Pacific is one of the few local property management firms to have earned the Accredited Management Organization (AMO) designation from the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) and the Accredited Certified Management Firms (ACMF) in Southern California, certified through the California Association of Community Managers (CACM®). Headquartered inIrvine, Calif., Keystone Pacific also maintains offices in Rancho Santa Margarita and Temecula, Calif.

For more information, please contact Keystone Pacific at 1-877-KPPM-INC (577-6462) or visit www.keystonepacific.com.

About Press Release Distribution Associates

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on artificial turf, see this article on using Artificial Turf to save money. See also Property Management San Jose.

Lee and Associates Opens First Office in Florida

2011-12-14T02:23:00.001-08:00

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Lee & Associates, one of the largest full-service commercial real estate firms in the country, has taken an important step in bolstering its Southeast presence with the opening of its first office in Florida, Lee & Associates Naples/Ft. Myers. The office is headed by Bob Johnston, Jerry Messonnier and Richard B. Clarke, who before joining Lee were the founders of one of Southwest Florida's top commercial brokerage firms, Grubb & Ellis/1st Commercial, LLC. The trio represents 70 years of commercial brokerage experience and an in-depth connection with Florida commercial real estate.

"With the addition of the Naples/Ft. Myers office, Lee caps 2011 with a banner year of a methodical and opportunistic strategy of nationwide expansion,"" said Edward Indvik, CEO of Lee & Associates. "We have a clear objective of focusing on exceptional talent and location, which speaks to the value we place on the Naples/Ft. Myers area and Jerry, Richard and Bob. Our plans for strategic expansion, which include the other major markets in Florida and the southeast and northeast, is on course and will continue through 2012 and beyond. I expect us to have announcements on several additional locations in the first quarter 2012 alone."

Lee & Associates Naples/Ft. Myers, which becomes the firm's 45th office nationwide, is located at 7950 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Ft. Myers. Nine brokers fill its roster and represent the industrial, office, retail and investment markets. The announcement comes one month after Lee opened a New York City location, which followed other significant new office openings in Atlanta, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Kan. and Greenville, S.C.

"While Florida, like the rest of the country, has been struggling with the economic downturn, beginning this year, commercial real estate has started to pick up momentum as more property becomes affordable," said Messonnier. "As a result, with our expertise in this region and the Lee & Associates national network, it's the perfect opportunity and match as we continue to grow in the Florida market."

Indeed, some key factors that are making the Southwest Florida market more attractive are low corporate taxes; proximity to major markets such as Tampa and Miami; extensive transportation infrastructure, including an expanding international airport; numerous educational institutions -- two universities and various two- and four-year colleges; the recent upswing in commercial activity in the Southwest Florida market along with the ongoing influx of major and small businesses to the area.

Overall, Florida, which has a GDP of $744 billion, is ranked as the fourth largest state economy in the United States. And according to a 2011 survey by Chief Executive Magazine, which polled 500 CEOs on a wide range of criteria, from taxation and regulation to workforce quality and living environment, Florida was ranked third in the nation as the best place for business.

In addition to Johnston, Messonnier and Clarke, other key figures in the Naples/Ft. Myers office include: Derek Bornhorst and Bob White, industrial specialists; Chuck Smith and Carols Acosta, retail specialists; Charles Jans, office specialist.

In 2008, Johnston and Messonnier, who led the southwest Florida industrial team at another national firm, were one of the top teams in the region's industrial market, left to form their own entity, Grubb & Ellis/1st Commercial LLC. The pair continues to dominate the industrial market with a 65 percent market share.

Before beginning his career in commercial brokerage, Messonnier spent 20 years in the commercial banking industry and was owner of his own real estate investment firm.

With 25 years of commercial real estate experience, Clarke specializes in property acquisitions and dispositions for national development and brokerage companies, asset management, development, construction and leasing. Prior, Clarke was Vice President of development for Opus South Corp. in Fla., working with private clients, lenders, asset managers and hedge funds.

Johnston, who has more than 20 years experience in selling and leasing industrial property, began his career in Southern California where he became familiar with the Lee & Associates business model whereby the office is controlled by the brokers, not corporate managers. "We are extremely excited about moving forward as we join with Lee & Associates, which shares the same values and goals we have," Johnston said.

About Lee & Associates

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on Key West Florida, see Key West real estate

Oregon Agent David Somerville Says Study Indicates Now May Be Ideal Time to Buy Portland Real Estate

2011-12-09T16:02:00.001-08:00

PORTLAND, Ore. - Portland REALTOR® David Somerville says recent housing stats released by S&P and Case/Shiller indicate that continued lower real estate prices in most markets nationwide along with sub-4% interest rates may mean buyers are getting more unprecedented opportunities to buy low. The nationwide study showed housing prices eased slightly in September on a year over year basis, meaning buyers are able to get more home now for less money.

Somerville says the benefit for Portland real estate buyers is compounded by the fact that interest rates on the 30 year fixed mortgage remain below 4%.

"This is truly an amazing time in the market for buyers who can get past the doom and gloom headlines. I believe many homeowners won't see prices this low again in their lifetime."

He says the market may not be good for everyone, though.

"Speculative money has left the market in a big way, but that's mostly a good thing for those who intend to own their home for years. House flippers and other short term speculators could get hurt, but if you want to buy a home and live in it for a long time, this market is a godsend."

Somerville says that in no other time in history have first time home buyers been able to get such low prices combined with low mortgage payments.

"Because of the speculative housing excesses that led to a peak in Portland home prices around 2006 and 2007, the banks still have a notable amount of foreclosures on their books. While the media like to see the negatives in this, it's actually a good thing for the right kind of buyer, especially on luxury Portland real estate and waterfront properties."

Asked what kind of buyer is the right kind of buyer, Somerville says "motivated ones."

"There are a lot of potential buyers held back by doom and gloom headlines. Those who can see the silver lining beyond the headlines are a step ahead, in my opinion."

About David Somerville

As resident of Portland for two decades, an owner of several Portland area investment properties, and 10 years a REALTOR¬Æ, Dave Somerville understands Portland real estatefrom the inside out. He has the ability to see a property‚Äôs potential, beyond its current condition and gives the buyer a vision of how a house could fit into their dreams through minor cosmetic changes or remodels. Dave covers all Portland area towns and suburbs, including Beaverton real estate, Hillsboro real estate, Lake Oswego real estate, West Linn real estate, and The Pearl District.

David Somerville
5 Centerpointe Dr. Suite 150
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
503-789-7633
http://www.maxwellsinclair.com

New York Veteran Joel Herskowitz Joins Lee & Associates NYC

2011-11-22T02:02:00.001-08:00

NEW YORK, N.Y. - Joel Herskowitz, whose legacy in New York City commercial real estate brokerage spans 27 years, has joined the newly formed Lee & Associates NYC LLC. Herskowitz, the former president and CEO of Grubb & Ellis New York Inc., takes on the title of COO, and whose duties also include broker recruitment, which the Manhattan office has made one of its top priorities.

“Joel is a legend in this city and his knowledge and experience will be crucial as we move forward in developing this office,” said James Wacht, president of Lee & Associates NYC. “The transactions will be there, but what we need to do now is find those brokers with the experience, knowledge and attitude to mold this office into a top brokerage firm. That’s what Joel will provide – a strategy for recruitment and retention.”

On November 1, Sierra Realty Corp., one of New York City’s prominent full-service brokerage firms, partnered with Lee & Associates to become Lee & Associates NYC LLC. With this union, the firm joins a national roster of 700 brokers throughout the U.S. including offices in Los Angeles, Chicago, St. Louis, Detroit, San Diego, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Dallas/Fort Worth and Atlanta. In addition to Wacht and Herskowitz, Peter Braus rounds up the executive team as executive VP and managing principal. Herskowitz will work with Wacht and Braus to recruit new brokers, manage the brokerage side of the business, and help facilitate the flow of referral business among the various Lee offices.

Wacht called Herskowitz’s resume a testament of his know-how and his hands-on approach in developing sales teams, recruitment, training and employee retention, sales and motivation techniques and team building. “Mr. Herskowitz knows what he’s doing. And the fact that he’s part of our team gives us a tremendous leg up on this front,” Wacht said.

From 2001-2006, Herskowitz was president and CEO of Grubb & Ellis New York Inc. In 2004, Grubb & Ellis recognized him as one of the three top executives on the national front for outstanding achievements, including earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT), recruiting, retention, and return on revenues. In addition, he received a special award for being responsible for a 67 percent increase in annual revenue from 2003 to 2004. Before joining G&E, Herskowitz, known for his leasing expertise, was executive managing director of Newmark & Company, where he managed the firm’s national brokerage division. Herskowitz also spent time with Cushman & Wakefield and Cohen Brothers Realty Corp., where he held the title of vice president of leasing.

“My passion has always been to lead, build and inspire, and I’m fortunate to be getting the opportunity with Lee NYC,” said Herskowitz, who is also a managing partner with the firm. “This office has made clear its established goals. I have every intention of meeting those goals and then surpassing them.”

Edward Indvik, CEO of Lee & Associates, called Herskowitz’s role in the New York office crucial. “There’s no doubt of the respect and expertise Joel brings to our firm. We are extremely privileged to have someone like him on our team,” he said.

Herskowitz is currently a member of The Real Estate Board of New York and had served on The Commercial Board of Directors of The Real Estate Board of New York and Real Estate Board of New York’s Board of Governors.

About Lee & Associates

News Distribution Information

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate media. Get more information on Ben Ganje REALTOR reviews from Downtown Resource Group.

Lee and Associates Closes on $3.94 Million Industrial Sale in Ontario

2011-11-21T23:02:00.001-08:00

ONTARIO, Calif. – Lee & Associates, the nation’s largest broker-owned commercial brokerage firm, has transacted the $3.94 million sale of the Class A Philadelphia Place Business Park located at 2810 Philadelphia St., in Ontario, Calif.

Jeff Smith and John Seoane of Lee & Associates’ Ontario office represented the seller, Lampson Beach Properties, which sold the property based on determinations of market conditions and the opportunity to affect a 1031 exchange for a property that had been of interest. The buyer, Summit Machine, will occupy the property for their own operations.

“When we started marketing the property there were a total of five buildings available for sale and 14 buildings for lease in the 40,000 to 50,000-square-foot range,” said Seoane. “This illustrates how demand for purchase far exceeds demand for lease, which contributed to the seller’s confidence in achieving a premium compared to recent sales.”

The 45,907-square-foot property, built in 2000, is considered a class “A,” newer product for its size range. “The limited supply of these types of properties and the correlated rise in prices allowed the seller to get very close to their asking price of $4 million,” added Smith.

About Lee & Associates

Celebrating more than 32 years of leadership excellence in commercial real estate, Lee & Associates is the largest broker-owned firm in the nation, with 44 locations across the nation including Arizona, California, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Texas and Wisconsin. With a roster of nearly 700 expert brokers, Lee & Associates provides a wide range of specialized commercial real estate services. Additional information is available at www.lee-associates.com.

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate media. Get more information on Ben Ganje REALTOR® reviews from Downtown Resource Group.

Lee and Associates Closes $20 Million Plus Office Transaction

2011-11-21T12:44:00.001-08:00

LONG BEACH, Calif. — In one of the largest transactions in Long Beach this year, Lee & Associates, one of the nation's leading commercial real estate providers, has closed a sales transaction of more than $20 million for the Park Tower, a 119,287-square-foot office building located at 5150 Pacific Coast Highway in Long Beach, Calif. The sale price of the off-market transaction could not be disclosed.

George Thomson of Lee & Associates Orange represented the buyer, an affiliate of New York-based private equity firm Investcorp International, Inc. George Thomson and Marshal Vogt also played a key role in raising Park Tower's occupancy rate from 38 percent to 96 percent in only 18 months preceding the sale.

Thomson and Vogt have more than 30 years of combined office brokerage experience and service both the Long Beach and Orange County areas.

About Lee & Associates

Celebrating more than 32 years of leadership excellence in commercial real estate, Lee & Associates is the largest broker-owned firm in the nation, with 44 locations across the nation including Arizona, California, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Texas and Wisconsin. With a roster of nearly 700 expert brokers, Lee & Associates provides a wide range of specialized commercial real estate services. Additional information is available at www.lee-associates.com.

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on 20 Ballad Circle, Holbrook, NY and 20 Skipper Dr, West Islip, NY, see Boston Real Estate.

Mountain Real Estate Capital Acquires $84 Million Loan Portfolio from First Federal S&L

2011-11-15T12:25:00.001-08:00

CHARLESTON, S.C. - Mountain Real Estate Capital (MREC) (www.mountainrecapital.com) announces the acquisition of a loan portfolio from First Federal Savings and Loan Association ("First Federal") in Charleston, S.C. An affiliate of Sandler O'Neill acted as exclusive financial advisor to First Federal in the asset sale which closed October 27, 2011. The portfolio is made up of 148 performing and non-performing loans totaling $84 million in loan balance. The loans are secured primarily by residential development properties in the Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head and Kiawah Island areas of South Carolina.

"First Federal is the 28th bank we have acquired assets from since 2010, and we hope to acquire several more portfolios before the year ends," observes Peter Fioretti, MREC’s CEO. Since 2010, MREC has purchase assets in 10 states and has committed $270 million to acquire bank notes and REO, encompassing over 12,000 lots/homes and 9,000 acres with projected sales exceeding $1.2 billion. "Our in-house underwriting and asset management teams are composed mostly of former GMAC REO professionals whose group we acquired in 2009. This allows us to quickly assess these A&D portfolios and gives us and advantage over less experienced opportunity funds."

Mountain Real Estate Capital is the equity investment arm of the Mountain Real Estate Group, founded in 1993 by its CEO, Peter Fioretti. Other affiliates include its lending group, Mountain Funding, and its management group, Mountain Asset Management. MREC is focused on three types of investments:

Acquisition of bank REO and NPL portfolios
Joint ventures with national and regional homebuilders to develop and sell residential lots and houses
Acquisition of opportunistic assets for its own account or in partnership with developers

MREC is headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., where its bank portfolio underwriting team is headed by Keith Alexander. Its homebuilder joint venture and asset management groups are based in Minneapolis, and its national origination team has additional offices in Atlanta, Los Angeles, Richmond, and Newport Beach.

"Being headquartered in nearby Charlotte will facilitate our effort to work closely with our borrowers. This will also present a great opportunity for us to team up with the developer and builder relationships we have cultivated in the Carolina markets to jointly develop assets we come to own," states MREC’s chief investment officer, Arthur Nevid. "We have successfully purchased assets from banks throughout North Carolina and Georgia, so this new portfolio located throughout South Carolina will neatly fit into our asset management footprint."

About Mountain Real Estate Group

Since 1993, The Mountain Real Estate Group has been a leading private capital source for real estate developers, builders and operators seeking to enhance value in their existing projects or to take advantage of new opportunities. In the current environment, developers and builders have been teaming up with Mountain Real Estate Capital nationally to capitalize on the opportunities currently available, either through the restructure of their existing equity or debt arrangements or the joint purchase of a newly identified distressed opportunity. Mountain’s equity fund is organized to invest up to $1 billion in these types of opportunities. For more information, visit www.mountainregroup.com.

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on Key West Real Estate, see Luxury Florida Homes.

EXIT Realty Continues Support of Habitat for Humanity with Quarter Million Dollar Pledge

2011-11-15T02:58:00.001-08:00

Mississauga, ON – At its 13th annual convention held recently in Nashville, EXIT Realty Corp. International continued its corporate sponsorship of Habitat for Humanity pledging a further $250,000 bringing the total pledges to-date to $2.25 million.

"We're so proud to be associated with an organization like Habitat for Humanity," said EXIT Realty Founder and CEO, Steve Morris. "Habitat's philosophy of providing a hand up, rather than a hand out, is right in line with our corporate philosophy."

A portion of every transaction fee collected by EXIT Realty Corp. International is earmarked for Habitat and to-date, the company has sponsored 17 home builds across the continent. The most recent build was in Nashville just prior to the kick off of the convention.

EXIT Realty partnered with Nashville homeowner, Stella Johnson, a 22-year-old single mother of three children. She will finish her sociology degree next year and works full-time after her job was eliminated following the devastating 2010 floods. Moving her children to a safer neighborhood was paramount in Johnson's decision to apply to Nashville Area Habitat for Humanity, which requires homeowner families to invest 200 hours of sweat equity, which includes classroom instruction and helping build their own and other homes.

"This has definitely been the best experience of my life - it's very life-changing for me and my children," said Johnson. "I'm very appreciative of EXIT Realty for giving me the opportunity of homeownership that I probably never would have had. The neighborhood is beautiful compared to where I live now. Moving will give me a fresh start and the opportunity to start my kids off on the right track. It's a good change that I need right now."

Along with the dedication ceremony for Johnson's home being held this month, EXIT Realty is also dedicating a home in partnership with Salt Lake Valley Habitat for Humanity in Salt Lake City, Utah.

"Habitat for Humanity makes the dream of homeownership come true with so many wonderful families like Stella's," said Morris. "EXIT Realty is privileged to be a part of it."

About EXIT Realty: EXIT is a proven real estate business model that supplies single-level residual income - for agents, security, stability and direction; for agents' families, security in the form of beneficiary and retirement residuals. EXIT’s MIND-SET Training Systems offer the industry’s best hands-on, interactive sales training. State-of-the-art technology, including the Digital Marketing Strategy, gives agents the edge in a competitive marketplace. A portion of every transaction fee collected by EXIT International is applied to its charitable fund. To-date, $2.25 Million has been pledged to Habitat for Humanity. For more information, please visit www.exitrealty.com.

About Press Release Distribution

This release is distributed in part by Press Release Distribution Associates, specializing in real estate press releases. For information on Downtown Resource Group, see Carlyle Minneapolis.