Bradenton, Sarasota, Manatee County, Sarasota County, Florida Real Estate Topics, Discussions, News & Humor

Manatee County, Real Estate, Homes for Sale! (Myakka City)

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:52:38 -0500

CLASSIC COUNTRY LIVING!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Description
Relocation, Community, Information, & Reports!
Neighborhood

$265,000 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 1,858 sqft
Lot: 5.95 acre(s)
Location

7032 108th Ave. E.
Parrish, FL 34219
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
http://www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

CLASSIC COUNTRY LIVING!
RIVERFRONT BEAUTY ON OVER AN ACRE!
COOPERATIVE SHORT SALE, MYAKKA CITY HOME WITH ACREAGE!
A MUST SEE!!
DON'T MISS THIS ONE!!

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COOPERATIVE SHORT SALE! MYAKKA CITY HOME WITH ACREAGE!

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:27:51 -0500

COOPERATIVE SHORT SALE, MYAKKA CITY HOME WITH ACREAGE!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Community, Relocation, for Any Neighborhood!, Information!
Neighborhood

$135,800 Single Family Home Main Features 2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 1,344 sqft
Lot: 12 sqft
Location

40825 State Road 64 East
Myakka City, FL 34251
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
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Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

COOPERATIVE SHORT SALE, BRADENTON HOME WITH ACREAGE!
A MUST SEE!!
RIVERFRONT BEAUTY ON OVER AN ACRE!
DON'T MISS THIS ONE!!
BEAUTY & TRANQUILITY IN FABULOUS COMMUNITY WITH WATER VIEW!

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Nearby properties for sale

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COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

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The Perfect BRADENTON Property! - 2 Bed 1 Bath Home

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:59:19 -0500

A MUST SEE!!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Description
Community, Relocation , Information!
Neighborhood

$74,500 Single Family Home Main Features 2 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Interior: 1,064 sqft
Lot: 0.26 acre(s)
Location

2612 22nd St. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
http://www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

A MUST SEE!!
RIVERFRONT BEAUTY ON OVER AN ACRE!
DON'T MISS THIS ONE!!
BEAUTY & TRANQUILITY IN FABULOUS COMMUNITY WITH WATER VIEW!
BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED, SITUATED ON LARGE LOT, GREAT LOCATION!

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

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Bradenton, Florida - SFR - Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource - REALTOR Designation - Certified Agent, Agents

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:59:04 -0500

(click the image above to find out more about the SFR REALTOR Certification/ Designation!)

Our team leader, Bob Serena, has completed the necessary education & training necessary to obtain his SFR REALTOR® Designation.

Not familiar with that acronym? What does that mean to you?

It simply means that Bob has taken the time, energy, & expense to further educate himself on how to provide home buyers (as well as home sellers) with the very best real estate service with respect to Foreclosures & Short Sales in the Bradenton, Sarasota, Manatee County, and Sarasota County, Florida areas.

REALTORS® who have earned the SFR (Short Sale, Foreclosure Resource) certification know how to help home buyers pursue short sale & foreclosure opportunities, and can assist home owners with issues relating to short sales and how to avoid foreclosure.

SFR Agents/REALTORS® know the most up to date and effective strategies and methods of negotiating with lenders, protecting buyers and sellers, & reducing the risks for their clients involved in short sale and foreclosure transactions.

CONTACT THE SERENA GROUP'S TEAM LEADER, BOB SERENA, BY PHONE, TEXT, OR EMAIL TODAY TO LEARN MORE OR TO PUT US TO WORK FOR YOU TODAY!

The Serena Group

Bob Serena ~ Direct: 941.928.1248

Email: info@TheSerenaGroup.com

VISIT OUR REAL ESTATE WEBSITE

↓

www.TheSerenaGroup.com

www.Bradenton-Florida-RealEstate.com

EMAIL US!

YOUR- BRADENTON, SARASOTA, MANATEE

COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

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GOLF COURSE- HOMES, PROPERTY, SPECIALISTS
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Real Estate, Market Update, Statistics, Information - January 2012

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:48:39 -0500

Welcome to the Latest Issue of The Serena Group Newsletter!

As a real estate professionals, we strive to keep in touch with our clients providing them with information that we hope they will find useful.

This newsletter is an opportunity to let you know about the state of the market & current trends. It may even touch on ways that you could enhance your home's value.

We hope the market data & articles will help you with understanding real estate today & help you with your real estate decisions. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Trends, Tips & Tricks

Average List Price in December

Single Family Homes $445,912 Condos/ Townhomes $306,154 Multi-family $324,944

Home Improvements and Which Ones to Do

Whether you plan to sell in the near future, or just want to improve the value of your home, here is one low cost improvement you should consider.

Paint the interior. If you haven't painted in 10 years or more, your ceiling is probably looking dull and the colors on your walls are out of style.

New home owners have a tendency to use the same color throughout most of their house. That color is usually white, or another neutral color. You can increase the value of your home by choosing more contemporary colors, oftentimes selecting more vibrant colors for at least a few rooms in your home. Freshly painted ceilings will brighten your home.

Current Average Days on Market in December

Single Family Homes 185 Condos/ Townhomes 218 Multi-family 296

Monthly Trivia articles

January

Many people choose the New Year as a reason to make positive changes to their lives. If you are making resolutions this month, make sure they are reasonable. Set yourself up for success, not failure.

Pope Gregory XIII established January as the first month of the year but January is named after Janus, the Roman god of doors, beginnings, sunrise and sunset. Janus had one face looking backwards and one looking forwards, an apt image for reflecting on the past year and yet still facing the upcoming year.
The birth flower for January is the Carnation or the Snowdrop. The modern birthstone is Garnet (strength, health, prosperity, and perseverance) and the traditional birthstone is Rose quartz (forgiveness and emotional balance).

(click the image at the left to find out more about the SFR Certification!)

Our team leader, Bob Serena, has completed the necessary education & training necessary to obtain his SFR REALTOR® Designation.

Not familiar with that acronym? What does that mean to you?

It simply means that Bob has taken the time, energy, & expense to further educate himself on how to provide home buyers (as well as home sellers) with the very best real estate service with respect to Foreclosures & Short Sales.

REALTORS® who have earned the SFR (Short Sale, Foreclosure Resource) certification know how to help home buyers pursue short sale & foreclosure opportunities, and can assist home owners with issues relating to short sales and how to avoid foreclosure.

SFR Agents/REALTORS® know the best ways & strategies to negotiate with lenders, protect buyers, & limit risk for their clients involved in short sale and foreclosure transactions.

CONTACT US BY PHONE, TEXT, OR EMAIL TODAY TO LEARN MORE!

The Serena Group

Bob Serena ~ Direct: 941.928.1248

Email: info@TheSerenaGroup.com

VISIT OUR REAL ESTATE WEBSITE

↓

www.TheSerenaGroup.com

www.Bradenton-Florida-RealEstate.com

EMAIL US!

YOUR- BRADENTON, SARASOTA, MANATEE

COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

FORECLOSURE HOMES & SHORT SALE PROFESSIONALS
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GOLF COURSE- HOMES, PROPERTY, SPECIALISTS
HERITAGE HARBOUR HOMES, REAL ESTATE, EXPERTS
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS, MARKETING PROFESSIONALS

Bradenton, Manatee County, Real Estate, Homes for Sale - THIS ONE WON'T LAST LONG!

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 10:30:41 -0500

BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED, SITUATED ON LARGE LOT, GREAT LOCATION!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Community Information, Relocation
Neighborhood

$109,000 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 1,416 sqft
Lot: 0.24 acre(s)
Location

2301 21st Ave. W.
Bradenton, FL 34205
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
http://www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

DON'T MISS THIS ONE!!
BEAUTY & TRANQUILITY IN FABULOUS COMMUNITY WITH WATER VIEW!
BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED, SITUATED ON LARGE LOT, GREAT LOCATION!
RIVERFRONT BEAUTY ON OVER AN ACRE!
1/1 CONDO IN GATED, 55+ BRADENTON COMMUNITY

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

www.Bradenton-Florida-RealEstate.com

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YOUR- BRADENTON, SARASOTA, MANATEE

COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

FORECLOSURE HOMES & SHORT SALE PROFESSIONALS
NEW CONSTRUCTION, NEW HOME- EXPERTS
GOLF COURSE- HOMES, PROPERTY, SPECIALISTS
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RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS, MARKETING PROFESSIONALS

Bradenton, Real Estate, Homes for Sale, Tidewater Preserve - CUSTOM TOUCHES, UPGRADES GALORE, & EXQUISITE WATER VIEWS!

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:21:51 -0500

BEAUTY & TRANQUILITY IN FABULOUS COMMUNITY WITH WATER VIEW!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Description
Real Estate, Relocation
Neighborhood

$312,500 Condominium Main Features 3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 2,332 sqft
Location

1115 RIVERSCAPE ST # 5D
Bradenton, FL 34208
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
http://www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

BEAUTY & TRANQUILITY IN FABULOUS COMMUNITY WITH WATER VIEW!
RIVERFRONT BEAUTY ON OVER AN ACRE!
1/1 CONDO IN GATED, 55+ BRADENTON COMMUNITY
Reduced by $15,000!! NOT A SHORT SALE, LOWEST PRICED POOL HOME IN HERITAGE HARBOUR'S POPULAR GATED GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY!
GORGEOUS HOME ON A PEACEFUL 9.7 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY!

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Nearby properties for sale

www.Bradenton-Florida-RealEstate.com

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COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

FORECLOSURE HOMES & SHORT SALE PROFESSIONALS
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GOLF COURSE- HOMES, PROPERTY, SPECIALISTS
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Stunning Custom Manatee County Pool Home on 1/2 Acre Lot in Great Community!

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 14:00:36 -0500

Stunning Custom Pool Home on 1/2 Acre Lot in Great Community!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Bradenton, Sarasota, Real Estate, Relocation, Information!
Neighborhood

$325,000 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms
3 Bathrooms
Interior: 2,671 sqft
Lot: 0.50 acre(s)
Location

315 167th Boulevard East
Bradenton, FL 34212
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
http://www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

GORGEOUS HOME ON A PEACEFUL 9.7 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY!
LOVELY WELL LOCATED GATED COMMUNITY!
Stunning Custom Pool Home on 1/2 Acre Lot in Great Community!
Condominium for $110,000 in Bradenton, FL
JUST BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH!

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Nearby properties for sale

www.Bradenton-Florida-RealEstate.com

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YOUR- BRADENTON, SARASOTA, MANATEE

COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

FORECLOSURE HOMES & SHORT SALE PROFESSIONALS
NEW CONSTRUCTION, NEW HOME- EXPERTS
GOLF COURSE- HOMES, PROPERTY, SPECIALISTS
HERITAGE HARBOUR HOMES, REAL ESTATE, EXPERTS
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS, MARKETING PROFESSIONALS

GORGEOUS HOME ON A PEACEFUL 9.7 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY!

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 15:07:39 -0500

GORGEOUS HOME ON A PEACEFUL 9.7 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Bradenton, Sarasota, Real Estate, Relocation, Information!
Neighborhood

$425,000 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1 Partial Bathroom
Interior: 2,458 sqft
Lot: 9.73 acre(s)
Location

Myakka City, FL 34251
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
http://www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

GORGEOUS HOME ON A PEACEFUL 9.7 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY!
Stunning Custom Pool Home on 1/2 Acre Lot in Great Community!
LOVELY WELL LOCATED GATED COMMUNITY!
Condominium for $110,000 in Bradenton, FL
JUST BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH!

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

www.Bradenton-Florida-RealEstate.com

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YOUR- BRADENTON, SARASOTA, MANATEE

COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

FORECLOSURE HOMES & SHORT SALE PROFESSIONALS
NEW CONSTRUCTION, NEW HOME- EXPERTS
GOLF COURSE- HOMES, PROPERTY, SPECIALISTS
HERITAGE HARBOUR HOMES, REAL ESTATE, EXPERTS
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS, MARKETING PROFESSIONALS

This Month in Real Estate, Real Estate News Update

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:08:41 -0500

December 2011 Market Update

One of the key drivers of homes sales, the employment rate, is beginning to show promising signs of a turnaround. The four-week average for jobless claims, as of November 19, was 394,250, a drop of 3,250 from the previous four weeks, and at the lowest levels since April. Consumer confidence also rose 15 points in the last month, and is now at its highest point since July of this year. Eric Green, Chief Market Economist at TD Securities Inc. said, "The trend remains very constructive. Jobless claims are back below 400,000, which seems to be the pivot point in terms of a strengthening labor market as opposed to a weakening one."

In addition to improving employment conditions, home affordability also improved as interest rates fell further, opening the door for more first-time home buyers who accounted for 34% of the sales in October, an increase from 32% last month and over last year. The western United States saw the greatest increase in home sales, which were up 4.4% month to month and up over 15% from last year.

A strengthening job market, along with encouraging signs from the housing sector, including a 10% jump in pending sales for October, are strong economic forces. While mortgage lending still remains a challenge, these forces may send a signal to banks to relax lending regulations and allow for a more rapid recovery.

Please sign up for your personalized custom Real Estate Market Data Report using the "MLS Market Snapshot" widget on the sidebar to the right of this article.

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HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL FROM THE SERENA GROUP!

nest Rte

Mortgage rates continue to push lower, dropping to 3.98% from 4.23% in October of 2010, offering historic affordability to today's home buyers. While mortgage lending conditions continue to be a challenge, more and more people are seeing the advantage of buying a home sooner rather than later. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said, "Home sales have been plodding along at a sub-par level while interest rates are hovering at record lows and there is a pent-up demand from buyers who normally would have entered the market in recent years. We hope this indicates more buyers are taking advantage of the excellent
affordability conditions."

Home Sale

Existing homes sales improved 1.4% in October, or to an annual pace of 4.97 million, a 13.5% increase from October of last year. Even more dramatic, was the jump in pending home sales, which surged in October by 10.4% from September, and were up 9.2% from October 2010. This jump in pending sales could lead to a strong fourth quarter as signs continue to point to a pent-up demand brought on by current lending conditions of mortgage providers.

Home Prices

The national median home price in the U.S. saw a small decline in October to $162,500, from $165,800 in September. This number can be affected by the sale of distressed properties, which typically sell at discounted prices. Distressed properties accounted for 28% of homes sales in October. Yet despite a drop in the median price from last September, the Federal Housing Finance Authority reported that seasonally adjusted prices rose 0.2% in the third quarter from the second quarter in 2011, which could be an early sign of appreciating home prices.

Inventory

By the end of October, the total number of homes on the market had fallen 2.2% to 3.33 million homes, which represents 8 months of inventory at the current sales pace. Since a record high of 4.58 million homes in July 2008, the inventory of homes for sale has been steadily declining. When homes sell faster than they come on the market, the market comes from its current favor toward buyers into balance or in favor of sellers. This can trigger an appreciation in home prices and lead the way to a stronger recovery.

Deciding to Buy

When first-time home buyers decide they are ready to buy, it is important for them to begin the process by carefully assessing their values, wants, and needs—both for the short and long term. This is a critical step since consultation sessions normally start with the buyers' values. Afterward, buyers can explore their wants and needs and, once defined, determine actual criteria.

A recent study shows how important the following home-buying factors were to buyers:

• List Price: 72%
• Location: 69%
• Neighborhood: 55%
• Floor Plan: 37%
• Square Footage: 28%
• Schools: 22%

By having the home-buying criteria in mind before walking into a consultation, buyers are off to a better start when meeting with their real estate agent. The consultation allows buyers to fill in any missing gaps within their values, wants, and needs.

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Brought to you by KW Research. For additional graphs and details, please see the This Month in Real Estate PowerPoint Report.
The opinions expressed in This Month in Real Estate are intended to supplement opinions on real estate expressed by local and national media, local real estate agents and other expert sources. You should not treat any opinion expressed on This Month in Real Estate as a specific inducement to make a particular investment or follow a particular strategy, but only as an expression of opinion. Keller Williams Realty, Inc., does not guarantee and is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of information, and provides said information without warranties of any kind. All information presented herein is intended and should be used for educational purposes only. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. All investments involve some degree of risk. Keller Williams Realty, Inc., will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on information contained in This Month in Real Estate.

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Bradenton, Heritage Harbour, Real Estate, and Homes for Sale

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:30:31 -0500

River Strand at Heritage Harbour, a gated Golf & County Club community, is nestled in the 2,500 acres of lush, tropical natural landscape...along the Manatee River. River Strand’s golf course, clubhouse, and health spa are reserved for homeowners and their guests If you purchase a home at River Strand, it will include a Golf & County Club Equity Membership. Arthur Hills designed the 27-hole River Strand championship golf course that winds through parts of the Manatee River. The Tuscan-style clubhouse features both casual as well as fine dining, an exclusive resort-style pool & luxurious health spa. Also a center of attention for the sports entusiast is a tennis center with 8 Har-Tru lighted courts and pro shop.

JUST BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description
Real Estate, Area, Relocation, Information!
Neighborhood

$260,000 Single Family Home Main Features 2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 1,738 sqft
Lot: 0.22 acre(s)
Location

611 River Crane Street
Bradenton, FL 34212
USA

To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below:

The Serena Group

Keller Williams Realty of Manatee
(941) 928-1248
info@TheSerenaGroup.com
http://www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Listed by: Keller Williams Realty of Manatee

Our recent listings

JUST BRING YOUR TOOTHBRUSH!
Condo with Gorgeous Golf Course & Lake Views Only Minutes to the Beach!
LOW MAINTENANCE BEAUTY IN GREAT WELL LOCATED GATED COMMUNITY!
YOU'LL NEVER GET BORED HERE! LOVELY, GATED, 55+ COMMUNITY!
NOT A SHORT SALE, LOWEST PRICED POOL HOME IN HERITAGE HARBOUR'S POPULAR GATED GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY!

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COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

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Giving Thanks With a Grateful Heart

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 10:36:38 -0500

Taking a moment to thank our clients, colleagues, and friends for all the

ways that they enrich our lives.

Each person possesses a special element and touches lives in a unique way.

For that gift, we thank you and wish you the happiest of Thanksgivings!

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COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

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Sarasota Florida - #1 Top Rebound City in the Nation

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:38:05 -0500

Barbara Corcoran and Al Roker discuss the 'Top Ten Rebound Cities' in the country on the "Today" show.

Sarasota Florida is number one!

For information about real estate in Florida, contact The Serena Group directly at: 941.928.1248.

We're Here For You!

If you're a real estate professional and need a referral exchange partner in the Bradenton, Sarasota, Manatee or Sarasota County areas of Florida...

Let's talk! We're here for you too :)

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

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COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

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Real Estate, Market, Report, Data, and Statistics - for November 2011

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 17:09:44 -0500

Real Estate, Market, Report, Data, and Statistics - for November 2011

November 2011 Market Update

While home sales in September were down slightly from a relatively strong month in August, they were up from a year ago, giving encouraging signs of a strengthening market and potential for stabilizing, if not appreciating, home prices. These signs include an increasing demand, shown by the number of people shopping for homes, and the decreasing inventory of homes for sale, in conjunction with some of the lowest levels of new housing construction since the 1960s when the Beatles first came to the United States.

Of the 3.48 million homes sold in September, 32% were first-time home buyers. With more and more people entering the market, the persisting obstacle for most is still the restrictive lending environment. In a plea to banks and policy makers, NAR President Ron Phipps said, "We need to remove the roadblocks to a housing recovery—not place more obstacles in the way of financially qualified buyers."

With an increasing demand and shrinking inventory, it is hoped that banks will begin to see the market potential and start to lend to otherwise creditworthy home shoppers, opening the road to a more rapid recovery. While consumer confidence still remains at all-time lows, retail spending increased 1.1% last month, a positive sign of growth fueled by the approaching holiday season, which could propel the U.S. into a promising new year.

This Month's Video

Mortgage rates were down again, from 4.35% in September of last year to 4.11% this September. While the Federal Reserve continues to put downward pressure on interest rates to spur sales, Congress's recent action to lower loan limits has further tightened lending among banks. This had the biggest impact in the Western states, which experienced an 8.8% drop in sales. This was mainly due to the concentration of more expensive properties in California, where buyers rushed to purchase properties in August before loans limits dropped on the October 1 deadline.

Hom Sales

4.91 million homes were sold in September, down 3.3% from a strong August in which 5.06 million homes were sold, but still 11.3% above September 2010. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, states, "affordability conditions have improved to historic highs and more creditworthy borrowers are trying to purchase homes, but the share of contract failures is double the level of September 2010. Even so, the volume of successful buyers is higher than a year ago and is remaining fairly stable—this speaks to an unfulfilled demand." If lending standards loosen, we can expect to see an increase in home sales.

Home Price

Home prices were down, with a 3.5% drop in September compared to a year ago. The national median price for homes in September was $165,400, with distressed properties, foreclosures, and short sales still accounting for 30% of sales. This is a great opportunity for those potential buyers still thinking about purchasing a home, especially as the housing industry begins to show increasing signs of stability.

Inventory

With stronger sales than a year ago, the amount of homes for sale was reduced to 3.48 million units, or an 8.5-month supply at the current sales volume. With the lowest new housing construction in almost fifty years, the inventory of homes on the market is projected to continue to decline, which is a positive sign that prices could begin to climb again.

Green YourHome Did you know that the housing and building industry accounts for nearly 40% of the world's energy and raw material consumption? Our ability to "green our homes" truly has the ability to change the world. The principles of green are really about understanding priorities for a well-lived life—living healthy, being smart with money, and acting more sustainably.

We typically spend more than 80% of our nonworking or commuting hours inside our homes. Because we spend so much of our lives inside, it only makes sense we make a healthy inside zone the first priority. Here are a few DIY tips from Green Your Home to get you started:

1. Cross-Ventilate. An average adult takes in more than 14,000 breaths—or about 3,000 gallons of air—a day! Surprisingly, you are more likely to breathe polluted air inside your home than outside—even in cities like Los Angeles, which aren't known for air quality. Opening one window won't cut it… you need cross-ventilation so the breeze actually blows though your home, taking the pollutions back out with it. Open a front door and a back door, or one window upstairs and one downstairs.

2. Lighten Up. Simply swapping out the five most commonly used incandescent bulbs for CFLs or LEDs in your home can save you $60 to $100 a year. Combined with well-designed artificial lighting, natural lighting is also a great way to boost efficiency.

3. Low Flow. American families use about 400 gallons of water a day, and 70% of that is used inside the home. The majority is used in the bathroom: the average person flushes the toilet 2,500 times a year. Transform your home's toilet from water-waster to water-miser for cheap. Place a brick or 2-liter plastic bottle filled with water into your toilet's tank. The volume of these objects means less water will be needed to fill your tank—you've just created your own low-flow toilet. Also, be sure and have a leaky or running toilet fixed by a plumbing professional immediately.

For more tips, buy your copy of Green Your Home now at www.kellerink.com/greenyourhome

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Real Estate as a specific inducement to make a particular investment or follow a particular strategy, but only as an expression of

opinion. Keller Williams Realty, Inc., does not guarantee and is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of information,

and provides said information without warranties of any kind. All information presented herein is intended and should be used for

educational purposes only. Nothing herein should be construed as investment advice. You should always conduct your own research

and due diligence and obtain professional advice before making any investment decision. All investments involve some degree of risk.

Keller Williams Realty, Inc., will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on information contained in This Month

in Real Estate.

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HARBOUR LITES - New Community Newsletter for Heritage Harbour in Bradenton, FL

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 19:02:15 -0500

October / November 2011

Harbour Lites

Brought to You by: Bob and Betty Serena
Your 'Heritage Harbour Neighbors & Real Estate Experts!

Bob & Betty Serena

Keller Williams Realty

4520 State Road 64 East
Bradenton FL 345208
Direct: 941.928.1248

info@TheSerenaGroup.com

www.TheSerenaGroup.com

Are You a First-Time Buyer?
Get Our Free Guide

Buying your first home is a big step and one that's likely to impact your financial future for years to come.

Make sure you make the right decision by asking for my free guide, "How First-Timers Can Make a Wise Buy."

Just call me or reply to this email and I'll send it right out to you.

Quick Quiz

Each month we'll give you a new question.

Just reply to this email for the answer.

What was the first name of the fictional detective Kojak?

Why Not Pass Me to a Friend?

If you've enjoyed this newsletter and found its information useful, please forward it to a neighbor, friend or co-worker by clicking this link.

Recipe: Singapore Noodles

Serves 6

400 grams rice noodles
2 teaspoons curry powder
1 teaspoon of sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 pound pork tenderloin, sliced into bite-size strips
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
¼ cup sliced scallions
3 tablespoons minced ginger
1 cup sliced celery
1 cup sliced carrots
2 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons soy sauce

Bring two quarts of salted water to a boil, remove from heat and add noodles. Soak for two minutes or until tender. Drain noodles and set aside.

Combine curry, sugar and ½ teaspoon salt and set aside.

Season pork strips with salt and pepper. Heat two tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet, then add pork and cook for three minutes or until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.

Heat remaining three tablespoons of oil in the same skillet and add scallions and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then add celery, carrots and curry mixture. Add noodles, pork, broth and soy sauce and simmer until combined and slightly thickened.

Ask the Agent

How can I make moving day go smoothly?

•   Have plenty of boxes, paper for wrapping, tape and "fragile" stickers.

•   Color-code your boxes. Do the same for the rooms in your new home. Then the movers can match them up.

•   Be a smart packer. Pack things together that go together.

•   Pack one box for each family member and name or number it. Include toys, bedding, clothes for the next day and anything else they'll need to feel at home in the new house.

•   Farm out the kids and pets so they're not underfoot.

•   Put together a cleaning kit for a quick cleanup of the old house. If you have a helper, ask him or her to vacuum each room as the movers clear it.

Heritage Harbour Market Snapshot!

Thanks for stopping by...
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Should You Make Those Repairs Before Selling Your Home?

Just how much should you invest in repairs to sell your home?

It comes down to how desperate you are to sell and what changes are needed.

Significant structural problems or major electrical or plumbing repairs must be disclosed to potential buyers. If you are unaware of these problems and they are discovered during the home inspection, they will have to be fixed at your expense or you'll have to hand over an equivalent amount to allow the buyers to fix them themselves.

So if you are aware of significant repairs that need to be made, why not avoid the hassles and fix them before the "for sale" sign goes up?
For less significant changes, you can make repairs. But be aware you won't necessarily recoup your investment. Don't overspend. Many an unwary homeowner has made changes that effectively price him or her out of the neighborhood, meaning it's become a good house in a poor neighborhood.

Buyers looking in the area may not be prepared to pay for state-of-the art windows or a slate roof. They may be impressed, however, by an uncluttered home with a fresh coat of paint.

Alternatively, you can decide not to make changes, betting that your proximity to transit or a deck with a hot tub will sell your house despite its flaws.

If this sounds good, be prepared to wait for a buyer who wants a fixer-upper.

And be aware that in its current condition, your house won't go for top dollar - even to do-it-yourselfers.

Serve Up Some Gratitude This Thanksgiving

Former President John Fitzgerald Kennedy once said, "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."

As we approach Thanksgiving, we may want to remember those words. As Kennedy implies, it's living in a grateful way that has meaning. Not in speaking the words of gratitude. Too many of us wait until Thanksgiving to remember the good things in our lives. But it needn't be a one-day wonder. The power that gratitude engenders can be a great force for good in this world. As such, it should become part of our daily lives in the same way as shaking hands with friends or hugging our kids.

Gratitude, according to the Tiny Buddha website at www.tinybuddha.com, is amazingly useful. It gives us a sense of satisfaction and completion, reminding us that we do have enough. But more important, it provides us with the building blocks to experience today and build tomorrow in a state of acceptance and harmony.

The idea that our thoughts and emotions create our life circumstances is enjoying a popular revival these days. It was perhaps best expressed in 1889 by Prentice Mulford in his book Thoughts Are Things. His philosophy is that positive thoughts, including gratitude, create positive events and circumstances.

This Thanksgiving, consider President Kennedy's words and act with gratitude all year long. Your life circumstances can only benefit.

Trying Turducken This Holiday?

If you're looking for something different to serve this Thanksgiving, perhaps a little turducken may be in order.

Turducken was popularized by NFL analyst and announcer John Madden during a nationally televised football game. It is a variation of a dish that was served by wenches in 18th-century England.

But now, the deboned chicken stuffed into a deboned duck stuffed into a deboned turkey with bread stuffing in between has achieved fame. It generated more than 700,000 results in a search on Google in September.

With plans for Thanksgiving celebrations now under way, it might soon double that.

For all the information flying around about turducken, not many people admit to liking it. But it is, many agree, a showy way to celebrate the holiday.

Perhaps turducken should enjoy fame while it can. A goose-based variation, called gooducken, may not be far behind. Gooducken, of course, is a goose stuffed with a duck, which, in turn, is stuffed with a chicken.

Wondering How Much Your Home is Worth?

How has the price of your Heritage Harbour home changed in today's market? How much are other homes in our neighborhood selling for?

If you're wondering what's happening to prices in our community, or you're thinking about selling your house,
The Serena Group will be able to help.

Just give Bob Serena a call at: 941.928.1248 for a no-fuss, professional evaluation.

We won't try to push you into listing with our team or waste your time.

We'll just give you the honest facts about your home and its value.

And maybe we'll also give you the "inside scoop" on what's happening in the housing market for our county!

Just call or email us to arrange an appointment. Alternatively, stop by at our office.

How to Bargain for a Lender-Owned Property

There are bargains to be had in today's depressed housing market. When buying a lender-owned property, though, you need to be especially savvy to come up with an offer that will satisfy the beneficiary bank or agency.

First, be aware that lenders are anxious to sell what is now a nonperforming asset. They also don't want to lose much on the deal. That means you'll have to submit a particularly well-thought-out offer on a real-estate-owned home. Following are strategies to consider:

Ask your buyers' agent to find out the bank's purchase price for the property. Offer an amount that is between the balance owed on the mortgage and the sale price.
A little research goes a long way. Your agent can look at sales of similar properties in the neighborhood over the past few months as a way of assessing the value of the property.
Consider the competition. Other potential buyers of your property will likely base their offers on active listings. Stay current with prices of advertised homes in the same neighborhood, add a few extra dollars and beat out your competitors.
Get preapproved by your lender of choice, but also get a preapproval letter from the lender's own company. This is a simple way to establish your credentials. A bank will be less inclined to trust a competitor’s approval than one from its own mortgage department.
Be prepared to do fix-ups yourself. Even if a real-estate-owned home is not sold "as is," don't ask the lender to make repairs in the initial offer. It likely will send your offer to the bottom of the pile.

Even if it is your dream home, don't get emotional. View your offer on a "bargain" home as a transaction. Save the self-congratulations for closing.

Have you had a chance to visit

Bennett Park?
We'd love to hear what you think?

Email us!

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This newsletter and any information contained herein are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial or medical advice. The publisher takes great efforts to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this newsletter. However, we will not be responsible at any time for any errors or omissions or any damages, howsoever caused, that result from its use. Seek competent professional advice and/or legal counsel with respect to any matter discussed or published in this newsletter. This newsletter is not intended to solicit properties currently for sale.

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The Serena Group - Keller Williams Realty
4520 State Road 64 East
Bradenton, Florida 34208
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www.Bradenton-Florida-RealEstate.com

EMAIL US!

YOUR- BRADENTON, SARASOTA, MANATEE

COUNTY, EAST MANATEE COUNTY, AND SARASOTA COUNTY ~

FORECLOSURE HOMES & SHORT SALE PROFESSIONALS
NEW CONSTRUCTION, NEW HOME- EXPERTS
GOLF COURSE- HOMES, PROPERTY, SPECIALISTS
HERITAGE HARBOUR HOMES, REAL ESTATE, EXPERTS
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS, MARKETING PROFESSIONALS

Bradenton, Sarasota, Manatee County, Sarasota County, Florida Real Estate Topics, Discussions, News & Humor

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Real Estate, Market Update, Statistics, Information - January 2012

Welcome to the Latest Issue of The Serena Group Newsletter!

Trends, Tips & Tricks

Manatee County in Florida Real Estate Sales Data

Average Listing Price (last 12 months)

Average List Price in December

Home Improvements and Which Ones to Do

Manatee County in Florida Real Estate Sales Data

Days on Market (last 12 months)

Current Average Days on Market in December

Monthly Trivia articles

January

Bradenton, Manatee County, Real Estate, Homes for Sale - THIS ONE WON'T LAST LONG!

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Bradenton, Real Estate, Homes for Sale, Tidewater Preserve - CUSTOM TOUCHES, UPGRADES GALORE, & EXQUISITE WATER VIEWS!

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Stunning Custom Manatee County Pool Home on 1/2 Acre Lot in Great Community!

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GORGEOUS HOME ON A PEACEFUL 9.7 ACRES OF NATURAL BEAUTY!

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This Month in Real Estate, Real Estate News Update

Bradenton, Heritage Harbour, Real Estate, and Homes for Sale

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Giving Thanks With a Grateful Heart

Sarasota Florida - #1 Top Rebound City in the Nation

Real Estate, Market, Report, Data, and Statistics - for November 2011

HARBOUR LITES - New Community Newsletter for Heritage Harbour in Bradenton, FL