Websites linked to increase in moving scams

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – June 21, 2013 – Complaints are rising over a scam where moving companies provide low-ball estimates to customers and, once the truck is loaded, inflate fees and holding customers’ possessions hostage until they pay more.

These scammers sometimes even threaten to auction off belongings unless the people moving come up with more money to pay them.

While a scam could happen with any move, Florida has laws to protect people who must relocate. However, Florida law applies only to those moves that begin and end within the state – intrastate moves. An interstate move – one that begins and ends in different states – has fewer legal protections.

How can clients avoid being duped? Consumer Reports suggests collecting estimates from at least three companies, and being cautious about companies that don’t provide an address or licensing information. It also recommends using a mover with a marked truck who puts everything in writing. Avoid companies that require large upfront deposits, Consumer Reports warns, and check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against companies.

Recently, New Jersey officials uncovered 25 unlicensed moving companies with listings on sites such as Craigslist and Angie’s List accused of duping customers with a moving scam.

Those who feel they’ve been scammed should contact their state attorney general, consumer protection agency, or licensing agency. Consumers should contact police if they feel a mover is illegally holding their possessions.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration oversees interstate moves between two states. Their website allows consumers to search registered movers and has instructions on how to submit complaints.

For an overview of state law applicable to moving, visit the Florida Division of Consumer Services.  It offers an overview of the law, tips for moving and a way to submit complaints.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=293081

http://www.teampetel.com/

Fla.’s housing market continues momentum in May 2013

ORLANDO, Fla. – June 20, 2013 – Florida’s housing market continued its upswing in May, with higher closed sales, more pending sales, rising median prices, more new listings and a lower inventory of homes for sale, according to the latest housing data released by Florida Realtors®.

“Home sales continue to increase, it’s taking less time for sales to close, and median sales prices are on the rise,” said 2013 Florida Realtors President Dean Asher, broker-owner with Don Asher & Associates Inc. in Orlando. “This is the 17th month in a row that we’ve seen the statewide median sales prices increase year-over-year for both single-family homes and for townhome-condo properties.

“Sellers are seeing this momentum in Florida’s housing sector and it’s prompting many to decide now is the time to list their property for sale. Statewide, new listings for single-family homes increased 10.2 percent in May, while new townhome-condo listings rose 7.1 percent.”

Statewide closed sales of existing single-family homes totaled 22,375 in May, up 18.7 percent compared to the year-ago figure, according to data from Florida Realtors Industry Data and Analysis department in partnership with local Realtor boards/associations. Closed sales typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written.

Meanwhile, pending sales – contracts that are signed but not yet completed or closed – for existing single-family homes last month rose 30.8 percent over the previous May. The statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes last month was $171,000, up 15.9 percent from the previous year.

According to the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), the national median sales price for existing single-family homes in April 2013 was $193,300, up 11 percent from the previous year. In California, the statewide median sales price for single-family existing homes in April was $402,760; in Massachusetts, it was $315,000; in Maryland, it was $258,093; and in New York, it was $218,875.

The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less. Housing industry analysts note that sales of foreclosures and other distressed properties downwardly distort the median price because they generally sell at a discount relative to traditional homes.

Looking at Florida’s year-to-year comparison for sales of townhouse-condos, a total of 11,201 units sold statewide last month, up 11.5 percent compared to May 2012. Meanwhile, pending sales for townhouse-condos last month increased 18.3 percent compared to the year-ago figure. The statewide median for townhouse-condo properties was $128,000, up 13 percent over the previous year. NAR reported that the national median existing condo price in April 2013 was $189,500.

The inventory for single-family homes stood at a 5-months’ supply in May; inventory for townhouse-condos was at a 5.4-months’ supply, according to Florida Realtors.

“The numbers continue to move in the right direction,” said Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. John Tuccillo. “We remain concerned about the rise in the percentage of sales accounted for by all cash buyers. These numbers understate the true condition of the market in that a great many sales are conducted directly with the financial institution holding the property, and thus do not appear in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

“But those crying doom-and-gloom who read this growth in investor activity as the sign of a new bubble are far off-base and simply don't understand the texture of the current market.”

According to Freddie Mac, the interest rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.54 percent in May 2013, down from the 3.80 percent average recorded during the same month a year earlier.

To see the full statewide housing activity report, go to Florida Realtors website Research & Statistics page and click on the Research page; then look under Current Market Reports and get the statewide May reports. Or go toFlorida Realtors Media Center and download the May 2013 data report PDFs under Market Data.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=292994

http://www.teampetel.com/

Tropical Storm Andrea drenches the island, but no damage reported

By McKenzie Cassidy

Tropical Storm Andrea brought a week’s worth of gloom and rain to the islands, but didn’t inflict any significant damage.

Kathleen Rooker, administrator with the Captiva Erosion prevention district, said there was some sand loss due to the storm. The district begins its beach nourishment project this summer to preserve the beaches from tropical storms and hurricanes.

The Sanibel City Manager’s Office reported no damage to the city even though a tornado watch was declared on June 6. City officials are currently monitoring the amount of rain fall in the Kissimmee Basin which flows into Lake Okeechobee, because it will eventually reach the estuaries of Southwest Florida.

According to WINK-TV meteorologist Katie Walls, the rainy season officially started on May 26, which is about average for Southwest Florida.

“The rainy season is determined when we have three consecutive days of dewpoints over 70 degrees and the afternoon stormy pattern set up,” Walls said.

Walls said the rain bands associated with Andrea could’ve produced waterspouts of small tornadoes, with 2 to 4 inches of rain expected, and the possibility of flooding.

So while Andrea isn’t expect to pack as historic wallop on the areas, don’t get too jaded or complacent, Walls said.

“Do go sightseeing, because if they’re in the wrong place at the wrong time, you never know,” Walls said, “Unfortunately, most of the deaths office because they’re sightseeing and they want to play in the waves.”

Sanibel-Captiva Islander (June 19, 2013)

Rate on 30-year mortgage falls to 3.93%

WASHINGTON – June 21, 2013 – U.S. mortgage rates fell for the first time in seven weeks, keeping the average on the 30-year fixed loan just under 4 percent. But rates are expected to surge next week, as markets respond to Chairman Ben Bernanke’s comments that the Federal Reserve will likely reduce its bond purchases later this year.

Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday that the rate on the 30-year loan eased to 3.93 percent last week. That’s down from 3.98 percent last week but is still the highest level since April 2012.

The rate on the 15-year mortgage fell to 3.04 percent from 3.10 percent. That’s the highest since May 2012.

Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country on Monday through Wednesday each week. Bernanke’s comments during a news conference Wednesday afternoon weren’t fully reflected in the latest rates.

Concern that the Fed will wind down its bond purchases has pushed mortgage rates higher in recent weeks. Mortgage rates are still low by historical standards, helping sustain the housing recovery that began last year. But a spike in long-term interest rates could drive them higher quickly.

The Fed has been buying $85 billion worth of Treasury and mortgage bonds a month since late last year. The purchases pushed long-term interest rates to historic lows, making mortgages and other consumer and business loans cheaper.

Mortgage rates are expected to rise because they tend to follow the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. The yield on the 10-year note climbed in early trading Thursday to 2.39 percent, its highest level in 15 months. That’s up from a low of 1.63 percent last month.

And the yield could go even higher based on Bernanke’s remarks that the Fed will begin tapering later this year and could end the program in the middle of next year, provided the economy shows continued strength.

The average mortgage rates do not include extra fees, known as points, which most borrowers must pay to get the lowest rates. One point equals 1 percent of the loan amount.

The average fee for 30-year mortgages rose to 0.8 point from 0.7 point. The fee for 15-year loans was unchanged at 0.7 point.

The average rate on a one-year adjustable-rate mortgage declined to 2.57 percent from 2.58 percent. The fee for one-year adjustable-rate loans was steady at 0.4 point.

The average rate on a five-year adjustable-rate mortgage was unchanged at 2.79 percent. The fee slipped to 0.5 point from 0.6 point.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=293085

http://www.teampetel.com/

Sanibel celebrates the life of Francis Bailey.

By McKenzie Cassidy

The community of Sanibel turned out by the hundreds for the Francis Bailey Celebration of Life on Sunday.

Bailey, one of the founding fathers of Sanibel, passed away on June 8 and his family organized a community celebration at the Bailey Homestead on Sunday so members of the community could pay their respects. Tents were set up on the grounds as well as hay bales for guests to sit on, and the family addressed the crowd from the main deck.

“While this could be a sad day, we don’t want it to be,” said Richard Johnson, Bailey’s son-in-law and general manager of Bailey’s General store. Johnson commented on Sunday’s weather, sunny and hot by saying Bailey would’ve won long sleeves and been very comfortable. “This is exactly what Francis would want.”

Porter Goss, former mayor of Sanibel who went on to serve as a U.S. congressman, and then director of the Central Intelligence Agency in 2004, said a few words about his old friend.

“Everybody loved Francis and Francis loved Sanibel,” said Goss. “Francis loved to show off Sanibel, even to get a Yankee like me and show me something good.”

Goss reminisced about times when Bailey would call him late at night to meet and catch the blooming of a rare flower or see something in Sanibel’s natural environment to show off. The two met in the late 1960’s, he said, and worked together for a lot of projects including the incorporation of Sanibel.

“He was certainly the go-to guy for any cause that came along,” said Goss, who also was part of the group that founded The Island Reporter.

Sanibel Councilmember Marty Harrity also discussed Bailey’s involvement in the community. He said Bailey’s accomplished so much for Sanibel like the establishment of the city government, the comprehensive land plan, the vegetation committee, the historical committee, and the city’s energy plan.

Harrity said that Bailey’s motto was “You must always do what’s best for our island.”

It was no coincidence that Bailey’s celebration was planned for Father’s Day because many island residents consider him the father of Sanibel.

“Since today is Father’s Day and we already have a mother of Sanibel, I would be very comfortable having Francis as the Father of Sanibel,” said Goss.

Members of the Bailey family also shared stories about their father’s life on the island, including Susan Bailey who wished him a happy Father’s Day.

“Happy Father’s Day, dad, and we all love you,” she said.

Johnson said Bailey’s General Store will continue to serve the community and evolve. He said one of the things Francis taught him was to make sure he always made himself part of the community.

Bailey’s grandchildren remembered him at the end of the celebration by reading some of his catchphrases, such as “Holy Catfish,” “We are off like a heard of turtles,” or “Ready like a radio.”

Island Reporter (June 19, 2013)

http://www.teampetel.com/

Is the 10% down mortgage making a comeback?

NEW YORK – June 21, 2013 – The 10 percent downpayment may be back. Reportedly, some lenders are offering 90 percent financing once again on all loan types.

RPM Mortgage, based in San Francisco, resumed its “piggyback” loans in the first quarter of this year. The company had put its piggyback loans on hiatus in late 2007 during the financial crisis. In a piggyback loan, one lender loans 80 percent, while a second lender loans enough to equal 20 percent of the purchase price when combined with the buyer’s downpayment. The tactic allows the buyer to avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI).

The last few years, lenders have tightened up their underwriting standards and raised their downpayment requirements, mostly by enforcing a minimum of 20 percent down. That has kept some buyers on the sidelines. But certain lenders say they’re starting to cautiously ease up as home prices rise and the market picks up.

However, Julian Hebron, vice president of RPM Mortgage, says to qualify for a 10 percent downpayment, applicants must still meet some high standards. For example, they must have a credit score above 700 and have monthly housing, car, student loan and credit card debt that is no higher than 45 percent of their earnings.

In some cases, lenders are reportedly allowing borrowers to come with downpayments as little as 5 percent, although those tend to come with private mortgage insurance on conforming loans that are less than $417,000 and reserved for the most credit-worthy borrowers, says mortgage lender Tom Gildea of Prospect Lending in Rockland County, N.Y.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=293077

http://www.teampetel.com/

5 ways sellers can prepare for a home inspection

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. – June 11, 2013 – David R. Leopold, owner of Pillar to Post Home Inspection in Fairfield County, Conn., says home sellers and their real estate professionals have an important role in preparing for a home inspection to ensure it goes smoothly.

Leopold offers up some of the following tips in a recent article in RISMedia:

1. Don’t hide what isn’t working: If an appliance isn’t working, leave a note that indicates what isn’t working and how you’re getting it fixed. Don’t try to conceal defects because it can make the inspector start to view you as dishonest and wonder what else you’re hiding.

2. Make things accessible: Ensure the location of the attic and crawlspace are identified and easy to access. Don’t make a home inspector move your belongings in order to do his or her job.

3. Check the light bulbs: If a light isn’t working, the inspector needs to determine if the fixture is inoperable. Save them time by making sure all light bulbs operate, including those in the crawlspace and attic and furnace.

4. Note septic systems: If you have a septic system in the yard, be sure to leave a sketch that includes its location. Without guidelines, home inspectors, buyers and real estate professionals may have to conduct a prolonged search for it, Leopold says.

5. Keep appliances clear: Don’t leave dirty laundry in the washing machine or dryer because the inspector will test the appliances, and he doesn’t want to pull out clothes in front of everybody. “Also, make sure your oven and stovetop are clear and clean, so we can easily test them without setting off the smoke alarm,” Leopold adds.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=292523

Six ways a home may turn off buyers

WASHINGTON — June 13, 2013 — A strengthening housing market is pushing the economy forward, but steady economic growth is still a ways off, according to Fannie Mae's midyear outlook.

Fiscal headwinds are expected to keep growth to below 2 percent for the first half of the year, with gradual strengthening in the second half of 2013 and into 2014. However, as fiscal drags wane, growth should continue to move in the positive direction amid an ongoing recovery in housing, rising household wealth, and expanded energy production.

"At the outset of the year, we forecasted that 2013 would witness sustainable but below-par growth as the economy begins its transition to more normal levels. Halfway through the year, our view is little changed," says Fannie Mae Chief Economist Doug Duncan. "We expect approximately 2.1 percent growth over the course of 2013, up from the anemic pace of 1.7 percent in 2012. This is consistent with the incremental improvement seen over the past few years but still below the economy's potential. Our forecast calls for growth to push past 2.5 percent in 2014, boosted largely by tailwinds from the strengthening housing market."

Housing was largely positive entering the spring/summer season, with various indicators such as home prices, home sales, and homebuilding activity showing signs of long-term improvement toward normal levels. Despite rising mortgage rates during the past month, which have affected refinance originations, affordability conditions remain high and should not present a significant obstacle to potential homebuyers.

Source http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=292641

Six ways a home may turn off buyers

Bankrate.com recently featured a list of the top ways buyers back away from a home listed for sale. Its list includes these items, among others:

1. Dirt: “The No. 1 biggest mistake is not getting the home in the best possible condition. That’s huge,” says Chad Goldwasser of Goldwasser Real Estate in Austin, Texas. “I won’t even represent sellers at this point unless they are fully aware of how important it is to get their home in the absolute best condition that they’ve ever had it in.” Goldwasser suggests also steam-cleaning tile and grout and carpets and replacing carpets if necessary.

2. Odors: “Odors are a big one, especially kitchen odors,” says Julie Dana, co-author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Staging Your Home to Sell. “I advise my clients not to cook fried food, fish, or greasy food while the house is on the market. ... Interestingly, next to the kitchen, the smelliest room in the house is actually the living room. That’s typically the room that has the most fabric, so that is where odors get absorbed.” She recommends having curtains and upholstery cleaned, particularly if someone in the home is a smoker, and taking steps to eliminate any pet odors.

3. Old fixtures: “You need to change out old fixtures in your house,” Goldwasser says, adding outdated ceiling fans and light fixtures should be replaced prior to listing a home. “New cabinet hardware and doorknobs will probably cost all of $400 or $500, but it makes a huge difference.”

4. Wallpaper: When buyers see wallpaper, they think of another thing to add to their to-do list, says Dana.  “Wallpaper is extremely personalized. You’ve spent hours looking over books to pick out the wallpaper you want,” she says. “What are the odds that the person walking in the door will also like that wallpaper that you picked out?”

5. Popcorn acoustic ceilings: These ceiling were popular in the 1960s and 1970s but now can date a home. Still, it can be a mess and costly to remove, so real estate professionals say sellers may need to be prepared to credit a buyer in certain markets if they decide to keep the popcorn ceiling when selling a home.

6. Too many personal items: Cluttered homes make it difficult for buyers to see past the home owner’s belongings and start envisioning themselves there. “Anything that makes your house scream ‘you’ is what you don’t want,” Dana says. “I tell all my clients that how we decorate to live and how we decorate to sell are different, and right now, we’re decorating to sell.”

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=292592

Google Glass real estate app enables house hunting on the go

SAN FRANCISCO – June 14, 2013 – Trulia has developed an app for Glass, Google's augmented-reality glasses that send users an alert when they are near an open house that matches criteria on their wish list.

The app is designed to display property listings right before the eyes of the wearer. The Trulia for Glass app will also let them know when they are close to an open house that matches their search criteria, even providing directions to the home. Additionally, it will let them contact the real estate agent and can read out a property description.

"The idea is to provide just enough fresh information that is personalized for me and relevant to my location," says Jeff McConathy of Trulia. "It's a very different experience than having your head buried in your phone while the world passes by." The app is slated for release in July.        

Source: http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=292733

U.S. rate on 30-year mortgage rises to 3.98%

WASHINGTON – June 14, 2013 -- Fixed U.S. mortgage rates rose for the sixth straight week, putting the average rate on the 30-year loan just shy of 4 percent.

Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday that the rate on the 30-year loan increased to 3.98 percent. That's up from 3.91 percent last week and the highest since April 2012. The average rate was last at 4 percent or higher in March 2012.
The rate on the 15-year loan advanced to 3.10 percent from 3.03 percent. That's also the highest since April 2012.

Concerns that the Federal Reserve will scale back its bond purchases have pushed rates higher. Still, mortgage rates remain low by historical standards.

Cheap mortgages have helped sustain a housing recovery that began last year, encouraging more Americans to buy homes or refinance existing loans.

Mortgage rates are rising because they tend to follow the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. The yield on the 10-year note climbed as high as 2.29 percent this week from a low of 1.63 percent last month. It has since declined to 2.20 percent in early trading Thursday.

The Fed's $85-billion-a-month in bond purchases have pushed down long-term interest rates. As speculation has grown that the Fed will slow those purchases, investors have driven rates up. That has decreased the value of bonds with lower yields.

Fed policymakers hold a two-day meeting next week that will be closely watched for signals that the Fed may soon slow the bond purchases.

To calculate average mortgage rates, Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country on Monday through Wednesday each week. The average doesn't include extra fees, known as points, which most borrowers must pay to get the lowest rates. One point equals 1 percent of the loan amount.

The average fee for 30-year mortgages was unchanged at 0.7 point. The fee for 15-year loans also was steady at 0.7 point.

The average rate on a one-year adjustable-rate mortgage held at 2.58 percent. The fee for one-year adjustable-rate loans was unchanged at 0.4 point.

The average rate on a five-year adjustable-rate mortgage rose to 2.79 percent from 2.74 percent. The fee edged up to 0.6 point from 0.5.

Source http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=292737

The Mohawk Project: The Sinking World

Just off the coast of Sanibel and Captiva, the third step in creating the art project of Andreas Franke has begun, currently accessible only to underwater enthusiasts.

Austrian-born artist Franke has been in the advertising business for more than 20 years. He has worked for brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Coco-Cola, Ford, General Electric, Gillette, Heineken, Nike, Visa and Wrigley’s. His still-life images and surreal effects are famous. In his photographs, every little detail is planned precisely; there is no space left for fortuity. Franke is a traveler. He travels the world and between the worlds. His job frequently leads him to several countries on several continents; so does his passion for scuba diving. In his pictures, Franke crosses the borders between fantasy and real life.

His first underwater art exhibit began with photographing the decks of the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg, sunk seven miles off the coast of Key West in 2009. After that project, he became absorbed in the haunting enchantment of the ship. Franke with surreal visitors: 1950s teens waiting in line for movie tickets on the ship’s upper deck and a workman looking up from his lunch pain while stead on a cross/beam. The completed pieces were encased between panes of Plexiglas, placed in stainless steel frames, sealed with silicone to reduce marine exposure and hung by enormous magnets along the ship. It was a subtle process with great care taken not to disturb the ecological balance of the marine life around and not to damage the Vandenberg. Undersea growth began to adhere to the work and it became a living piece of art.

After a second installation on the SS Stravronikita, Franke chose the USS Mohawk as his third underwater project. Between now and September 14, scuba divers have the opportunity to witness nature working putting the final touches on Franke’s creations. The best place to see art and nature working together is by viewing the images on location; the backdrop of the historic icon and the special lighting can only be found under water.

“With my photographs of sunken shipwrecks, I want to pull the spectators into unreal and strange worlds. Mystified scenes of the past play within a fictional space. Dreamworlds you can get lost in or that you can identify with. This creates a new and unexpected atmosphere. This work shows very much of myself, since I am always on the lookout for stunning themes to create new images never been seen before,” said Franke.

On Friday, October 4, the public (including land-lubbers) will have the opportunity to view The Sinking World at the Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers.

One year after it was sunk, the 165-foot World War II warship USS Mohawk is now a living reef, thriving with exotic marine life. Scuba divers can view Franke’s images underwater with Scubavice Dive Center, which makes weekly trips to the Mohawk. It is located at 12600 McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers. Call 481-4733 or go to www.scubavicedivers.com for a schedule of dive trips, to rent scuba equipment and/or to receive an Open Water certification in time to see Franke’s artwork in its natural environment.

Island Sun (June 14, 2013)

Visit the website for more information http://www.thesinkingworld.com/

Around The Islands With Anne

Sundial’s Three Restaurants Are Open To The Public With Gulf Views And Fresh Décor

By Anne Mitchell

The islands’ easy living season is now in full swing, with plenty of dining options featured at local restaurants and eateries. It’s a time for special deals and a chance for us locals to drop into our favorite places for impromptu meals with friends and family.

It’s also a time when restaurant managers are able to refurbish their dining rooms, add seasonal produce to their menus and offer summer specials.

With that in mind, I plan to feature our local dining establishments in the weeks and months ahead, so you can check in right here to find out what’s happening, where the specials, are, get the latest on local entertainment and generally hear the scoop about the Sanibel/Captiva dining scene, whether it’s fine or casual, take-out or frozen desserts.

One major item of interest is that Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, notably its restaurants and public areas, are beautifully refurbished and redesigned – and is now open to the public.

The lobby, bar and dining areas at Sundial are a sight to see with their smart and sleek décor that takes island style to a new level.

Diners can choose from Waterview with its panoramic view of the gulf, or the mare causal Turtles Café & Patio and Sea Breeze Café. I have experienced happy hour on the spacious patio overlooking the beach and have promised myself more of the same. And if you want to eat poolside, there’s Turtles Tiki Bar, with live music by island troubadour Danny Morgan from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Happy hour is twice daily, from 3 to 5 p.m. and Turtles and 5 to 7 p.m. in the Sea Breeze Café.

Sundial holds BBQ Blowouts all season long from 1 to 4 p.m. Every Saturday there’s a buffet with offerings including grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, mahi-mahi and pulled pork along with fresh salads, corn on the cob and baked beans, plus a selection of fresh fruits. Price is $19 for adults and $12 for children five years and older.

Sundial Resort is at 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel, phone 472-4151.

Speaking of makeovers, Thistle Lodge’s flagstone veranda also has a new look complete with comfy seating and a cozy style.

Resort manager Frolian “JR” Ramirez, Jr. said, “We asked Lubner Group to revitalize the space with an updated and relaxing look that would be appealing for social gatherings.  They did such a great job that the outside deck has now become a popular gathering spot for resort guests, with many taking photos of the area.”

Thistle Lodge is located at Casa Ybel Resort, 2255 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, phone 472-9200 or 472-3145.

Sanibel’s Island’s Il Cielo has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on the TripAdvisor website, and is extended to qualifying business worldwide. Only the top-performing 10 percent of businesses listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.

To qualify, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months. Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last 12 months.

Said Alison Copus, vice president of marketing for TripAdvisor for Business, “The Certificate of Excellence award provides top performing establishments around the world with recognition they deserve, based on feedback from those who matter most – their customers.”

Il Cielo is located at 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, phone 472-5555.

Meanwhile, folks are rocking and rolling – and a lot more – at Enchanted Ballroom on Sanibel.

Owners Susan Scott and David Flory, who opened the studio three months ago, said they have watched brides and grooms learn their first dance, singles shed those extra pounds and couples – though much laughter – decide who leads and who follows.

Scott says the most frequently asked question is “Do I need a partner?” That’s not necessary.

In the past month they have held a West Coast and a Rumba workshop, which involved focusing on one dance style for two hours. They performed at the Dance Festival at BIG ARTS and held Friday Night Dance Parties at the dance studio, along with a Night Out on the Town.

Last weekend, Scott and Flory completed in a national competition in Naples returning with the Top Competitor Award.

This month weekly group glasses are in full swing and there will be a Friday Night Dance Party on June 21 at 8 p.m.

Enchanted Ballroom is at 2496 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel, phone 579-0468.

Island Sun (June 14, 2013)

SANIBEL MOURNS LOSS OF FORMER MAYOR FRANCIS BAILEY

News Release – For Immediate Release
June 8, 2013
City of Sanibel, FL Contact: City Manager’s Office (239) 472-3700

SANIBEL MOURNS LOSS OF FORMER MAYOR FRANCIS BAILEY 
COMMUNITY’S LONGEST SERVING ELECTED OFFICIAL

Francis P. Bailey
Mayor
1979

Upon notification of the passing of former Mayor Francis P. Bailey Sanibel Mayor Kevin Ruane issued the following statement:

“Today’s passing of our former Mayor Francis Bailey marks the sun setting on the era of our community’s earliest days.”

Bailey, a lifelong resident of Sanibel, born April 25, 1921, served as Mayor in 1979. Additionally Bailey served on Sanibel City Council from 1974 through 1996 and then an additional term in 1999 making him the longest serving Councilmember and elected official in Sanibel’s history.

Bailey was elected to Sanibel’s first City Council following incorporation. This City Council organized our local government that is utilized today. They adopted the first budget for the City of Sanibel, hired the first City Manager and adopted the City seal and City flag. The first City Council also authorized borrowing of $250,000 repayable over 10 years to provide capital to commence City operation’s and established the first City Hall. While serving, Bailey was a member of the Council that adopted the City’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan as well as the Community’s zoning and building regulations. Bailey also served on the Council that established the City’s Historical and Vegetation Committees as well as the establishment of the City’s Emergency Preparedness Program.

Francis Bailey was the son of two of the Island’s pioneering families, the Baileys and the Matthews, dating back to 1899 when Bailey’s General Store was first opened by his father. Bailey’s General Store continues to serve residents and Island visitors to this date. After serving our country in World War II Francis Bailey has overseen the operation of Bailey’s General Store. Francis also served our community for many years as a volunteer firefighter and as an elected member of the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Board of Commissioners.

Flags on Sanibel municipal properties have been lowered in honor of the life and contributions of former Mayor Francis P. Bailey. The Bailey family is planning a community celebration of the life of Francis P. Bailey on Sunday, June 16, 2013. The details will be forthcoming.

Source http://www.mysanibel.com/Departments/City-Manager-s-Office/News/SANIBEL-MOURNS-LOSS-OF-FORMER-MAYOR-FRANCIS-BAILEY

John R. Wood Island Real Estate #1 in increased market share on the islands

From dates 5/15/12 vs 5/15/13

We are proud to announce that John R. Wood Island Real Estate’s 2013 Market Share has increased +5.37% from 2012

2012 – 12.71%

2013 – 18.08%

Increase = +5.37%

Our knowledgeable agents offer legendary service showing spectacular productivity.

Source: http://sanibelrealestatemarket.com/news/1223/John_R_Wood_Island_Real_Estate_1_in_increased_ma.cfm#blog

Tips on Disaster Giving

In the wake of the devastating tornadoes that ripped through Oklahoma and in north Texas recently, Better Business Bureau and BBB Wise Giving Alliance have issued tips to help donors make smart giving decisions and to avoid scams.

“After every natural disaster and manmade catastrophe, we see an outpouring of generosity, along with the inevitable scams and frauds,” said Art Taylor, preside and CEO of the BBB Wise Giving Alliance. “We urge donors to take the time to make sure their donations are going to legitimate charities that can do the most good for those in need.”

“BBB Oklahoma City is so grateful for the immediate response from people all across the country,” said Kitt Letcher, the brand new president and CEO of BBB of Central Oklahoma, who started in the position just yesterday. “We will be keeping a close eye on the situation in order to prevent, as much as possible, scams related to charity relief, as well as restoration and rebuilding services.”

BBB Wise Giving Alliance is offering the following tips to help donors decide where to direct donations to assist victims:

·         Be cautious when giving online. Be cautious about online giving, especially in response to unsolicited spam messages, and emails and social media posts that claim to link to a relief organization. If you want to give to a charity involved in relief efforts, go directly to the charity’s website. In response to hurricane Katrina, and Rita, and the Asian tsunamis, the FBI and others raised concerns about websites and new organizations that were created overnight, allegedly to help victims.

·         Rely on expert opinion when it comes to evaluating a charity. Be cautious when relying on third-party recommendations such as bloggers or other websites, as they may not have fully researched the relief organizations they list. They public can go to www.bbb.org/charity to research charities and verify that they are accredited by the BBB and meet the 20 Standards for Charity Accountability.

·         Be wary of claims that 100 percent of the donations will assist relief victims. Despite what an organization might claim, charities have fun raising and administrative costs. Even a credit card donation will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. If a charity claims 100 percent of collected funds will be assisting disaster victims, the truth is that the organization is still probably incurring fund raising and administrative costs, but those expenses will still be incurred.

·         Find out if the charity has an on-the-ground presence in the impacted areas. Unless the charity already has staff in the affected areas, it may be difficult to bring in new aid workers to provide assistance quickly. See if the charity’s website clearly describes what the charity can do to address immediate needs.

·         Find out if the charity is providing direct aid or raising money for other groups. Some charities may be raising money to pass along to relief organizations. If so, you may want to consider “avoiding the middleman” and giving directly to those that have a presence in the region. Or, at a minimum, check out the ultimate recipients of these donations to see whether they are equipped to provide aid effectively.

·         Gifts of clothing, food and other in-kind donations. In-kind drives for food and clothing, while well intentioned, may not necessarily be the quickest way to help those in need – unless the organization has the staff and infrastructure to distribute such aid properly. Ask the charity about its transportation and distribution plans. Be wary of those who are not experienced in disaster relief assistance.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander (June 5, 2013)

Survey: 1 in 3 buyers search for over a year

WASHINGTON – May 31, 2013 – A spring home selling survey conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Century 21 Real Estate found that 33 percent of people currently searching for a home have been on the hunt for more than a year – and that the vast majority are willing to negotiate with sellers and make compromises to find their next home.

The survey finds that home offers are being made, but not many accepted: 42 percent of those searching for homes have made an offer in the past six months, yet only 11 percent have had their offers accepted.

However, current homeowners are more than twice as likely to have an offer accepted than current renters (15 percent vs. 6 percent). However, renters are nearly three times as likely as homeowners to report that they made an offer but couldn’t agree on price (14 percent vs. 5 percent).

“The recovery has transformed the mindset of many buyers and sellers who grew accustomed to the buyers’ market we saw for years,” says Rick Davidson, president and CEO of Century 21.

Of the 85 percent of buyers willing to compromise to get a home:
• 51 percent would be flexible with the closing time
• 31 percent would compromise by purchasing the house as-is
• 29 percent would put more cash down
• 58 percent would compromise on a built-in pool
• 49 percent would compromise on a finished basement.
• 37 percent would compromise on an updated kitchen
• 37 percent would compromise on walk-in-closets
• 42 percent would compromise on the length of their work commute
• 36 percent would compromise on access to restaurants, shopping and general conveniences
• 35 percent would compromise on proximity to friends and family

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=291968

Rate on 30-year mortgage jumps to 3.81%

WASHINGTON – May 31, 2013 – Average U.S. rates on fixed mortgages jumped this week to their highest levels in a year, signaling slightly higher costs for homebuyers. But rates still remain low by historical standards.

Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday that the average rate for the 30-year loan rose to 3.81 percent, up from 3.59 percent last week. That’s still not far from the 3.31 percent rate reached in November, the lowest on records dating to 1971.

The average on the 15-year loan rose to 2.98 percent, up from 2.77 percent last week. The record low of 2.56 percent was reached in early May.

Mortgage rates are rising because they tend to follow the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. The yield rose to 2.17 percent on Tuesday, its highest level in 13 months. It has since fallen slightly to 2.11 percent in early trading Thursday. Still, that’s up from 1.63 percent at the start of the month.

Yields on the benchmark note are rising because investors are selling government bonds. That’s largely because minutes of the Federal Reserve’s last meeting showed several policymakers favored slowing the Fed’s bond purchases, perhaps as early as this summer.

The Fed’s $85-billion-a-month in Treasury and mortgage bond purchases have pushed down long-term interest rates. When it slows the bond purchases, interest rates are likely to tick up. That would decrease the value of bonds with lower yields.

Cheaper mortgages have helped boost home sales this year and strengthen the housing recovery.

Sales of previously occupied homes and newly built homes both rose in April. And a report Thursday showed the number of Americans who signed contracts to buy homes in April reached a three-year high, suggesting completed sales will increase again in the coming months. There is generally a one- to two-month lag between a signed contract and a completed sale.

To calculate average mortgage rates, Freddie Mac surveys lenders across the country on Monday through Wednesday each week. The average doesn’t include extra fees, known as points, which most borrowers must pay to get the lowest rates. One point equals 1 percent of the loan amount.

The average fee for 30-year mortgages edged up to 0.8 point from 0.7 point last week. The fee for 15-year loans was unchanged at 0.7.

The average rate on a one-year adjustable-rate mortgage slipped to 2.54 percent from 2.55 percent. The fee for one-year adjustable-rate loans rose to 0.5 point from 0.4.

The average rate on a five-year adjustable-rate mortgage increased to 2.66 percent from 2.63 percent. The fee held steady at 0.5.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=291952

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac extend loan programs

WASHINGTON – May 30, 2013 – The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has directed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to extend two programs that help troubled borrowers stay in their homes: the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) and the streamlined modification initiative. Both will now remain effective through 2015.

Earlier today, the U.S. Treasury and the Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that they’re also extending HAMP for non- Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans.

“One of FHFA’s priorities is to provide assistance to struggling borrowers who are at risk of losing their homes,” says FHFA Acting Director Edward J. DeMarco. “These extensions keep two valuable foreclosure prevention programs available to those who need them. The extensions also align the end date for three key assistance programs developed in response to the housing crisis.”

HAMP helps homeowners struggling to keep their loans current by lowering their monthly payments. The streamlined modification initiative, announced by FHFA on March 27, gives borrowers at least 90 days late another path to avoid foreclosure and lower their monthly payments without requiring financial or hardship documentation.

Since the first full quarter of 2008, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have completed more than 2.7 million foreclosure prevention actions. About half are permanent loan modifications, including more than 435,000 permanent HAMP modifications.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=291883

Fla. consumer confidence hits post-recession high

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – May 29, 2013 – Floridians’ consumer confidence rose another two points in May to 81 – a third straight month of increases for a post-recession high, according to a University of Florida (UF) survey.

“The last time confidence was this high was August of 2007 when it was 82, shortly before the Great Recession began,” says Chris McCarty, director of UF’s Survey Research Center in the Bureau of Economic and Business Research.

Three of the five components used to determine the Florida Consumer Sentiment Index increased. Respondents’ expectations that their personal finances will improve a year from now rose three points to 82. Meanwhile, their overall confidence in the nation’s economic conditions over the coming year increased two points to 81.

Floridian’s trust in the national economy over the next five years surged, rising eight points to 85.

The survey showed a decline in two components, however. Survey takers’ perception that they’re better off financially now than a year ago fell three points to 68. In addition, their confidence in the timing to buy a big consumer product right now, such as an automobile, fell one point to 89.

Overall, though, Floridians’ confidence shows an upward trend.

“(Last month’s) increase was largely due to increased confidence among respondents under age 60, who were optimistic about their personal finances and U.S. economic conditions,” McCarty says. But this month’s increase found that older Floridians are even more optimistic. Confidence among respondents 60 and older in the national economy over next five years increased 15 points to 88.

“As the headlines turn to news other than budget cuts and possible changes to Social Security, consumer confidence improves for Floridians,” McCarty says. “This is especially true for seniors.”

Meanwhile, positive statewide economic news also boosts confidence. The legislative session in Tallahassee recently ended with a budget increase for the first time in several years. April’s unemployment rate was 7.2 percent, a drop of three-tenths of a percent from March. Construction, retail trade and service sectors saw job increases. Home sale prices improved again by $5,000 to a median price of $165,000. Sales have been strong, and new home construction is under way in some areas of Florida.

The stock market also reached record highs in May.

So far, most Floridians have not experienced the negative effects of sequestration. However, this could change as wide-reaching cuts in services and jobs trickle into the economy, McCarty says.

That process may have already begun. Employment in leisure and hospitality is down from March, and Florida’s sales tax revenue in April was less than expected. McCarty suggested sequestration might have affected plans for vacations for workers in other states.

“Our expectation is that the effects of sequestration will be more fully realized as the summer progresses and confidence will likely stay the same or pull back slightly,” McCarty says. “For now, optimism among Floridians is growing.”

Conducted May 13-23, the study reflects the responses of 410 individuals, representing a demographic cross-section of Florida. The index used by UF researchers is benchmarked to 1966, which means a value of 100 represents the same level of confidence for that year. The lowest index possible is a 2; the highest is 150.

http://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=291839