Practically everyone in the country knows the real estate market meltdown and the events of the Great Recession caused many changes to go into effect. As a result of the housing crisis, lending has undergone a big transformation as new federal regulations and industry standards have gone or are going into effect. Banks took a...Read More

If you’re reading this, it’s highly likely you are attempting to sell your property or buy a home and have just learned the bank is ordering a second appraisal…that much is obvious. Now, you want to know why the mortgage lender is doing so and what it means to you–more precisely, the transaction. It’s got...Read More

The month of April is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. It’s an idea time of year to explore and experience many things which include everything from craft shows to the circus to the many tantalizing delights of Ribfest. Yes, it sure is one fine month to soak up the sun, and spend a...Read More

The housing market might be enjoying a slow and steady recovery, but the overall economy is putting an invisible strain on potential home buyers. While home values are rising, so are interest rates, jumping from 3.39 percent last year at this time to 4.48 percent currently. Combine these facts with stagnant wages across the country,...Read More

Spring is right around the corner and it’s a great time to get your home in order, especially if you’re going to sell it soon. A thorough deep cleaning will clear away a lot of dirt, debris, and worthless junk. It’s a wonderful way to fall in love with your home again, or make it...Read More

To most people, there’s really no difference between a condo and a townhouse. Aside from the fact that most townhomes are two story units, while condominium units are a single story, there’s seems to be little which separates one property type from another. The reason for this perception is both property types are attached units,...Read More

If you’re thinking about buying a home, now is a great time to do so. Economists and real estate experts expect interest rates will rise 1 to 1.25 basis points by the end of the year, as will inflation. In addition, the real estate market, while in full recovery, still has affordable prices. The problem...Read More

Though it might be a bit chilly outside for the next couple of weeks, it’s about to warm up in more ways than one. Looking into the next several months, there’s no shortage of things to experience right here on the west coast of the peninsula. Many events are scheduled to take place, and cater...Read More

If you love motorcycles, good music and having a great time, maybe you gathered, along with 40,000 other Sarasota-area residents, in downtown Sarasota for the 2014 Thunder on the Bay, held January 9 through 12. This year marked the 16th anniversary of the Sarasota Motorcycle Festival, and featured food, entertainment, casino-style gaming, and much more....Read More

Homeowners are routinely surprised by the amount of “stuff” they have; and, from time to time, host a yard sale and give things away to charity. That amount piles back up over many months, and when it comes time to sell their property, homeowners can be overwhelmed by having to pack up all their belongings...Read More