Lakeland Florida Living

Lakeland FL Sandpiper Golf & Country Club 55+ Community – April 2012 Real Estate Market Update

2012-05-17T18:56:36Z

Lakeland FL Sandpiper Homes – April 2012 Real Estate Market Update

Sandpiper Golf & Country Club, an active 55+ community, is located in North Lakeland with easy access to I-4, top medical facilities, shopping a dining. The homes were built in the late 80’s through the late 90’s and contain approximately 1200 single homes and villas from over 900 – 2,000 square feet. Homes have 2 or 3 bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, and offer a variety of floor plans and upgrades, such as enclosed patio, flooring, kitchen, appliances, etc. They are mostly used as vacation homes for our Snow Birds as their winter resident; however year around living shows an active lifestyle in this community, such as golfing, swimming, social gatherings, walking, exercising, dining and much more.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club real estate market for April 2012:

In the 55+ age restricted Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community there were four homes sold in April 2012 while 18 homes are currently for sale. Although prices continue to slide for this 55+ adult community, it has very few distressed properties.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Lakeland FL Homes for Sale:

Active Listings: 18 – Declining Inventory

Average list price: $126,371

Median list price: $124,900

Pending Listings: 11 – Increased

Average list price: $119,782

Median list price: $122,000

4 Homes were sold in the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community in April 2012 with an average sales price of $109,875, compared to 4 homes sold the previous year for an average sales price of $130,250 a decline of 16%

5990 Swallow Dr. – 3b/2b – 1,914 sq.ft Sold: $155,000 – traditional sale

5977 Grouse Dr – 2b/2b – 1,301 sq.ft. Sold: $97,000 – traditional sale

6087 Swallow Dr.. – 2b/2b – 1,606 sq.ft. Sold:$125,000 – traditional sale

6072 Kittiwake Dr – 2b/2b – 1,155 sq.ft. Sold: $62,500 – REO/Bank Owned

On occasion I will bring to you a statistics about Sandpiper Homes Housing Inventory and how long it will take to absorb it’s current inventory. While the Sandpiper inventory is shrinking, we are still in a buyer’s market which may leveling into a more balanced market as we have less than 7 months of supply.

If you are interested in selling your Sandpiper Golf & Country Club home and would like to know what your home might sell for, give me a call at (863) 619-6918. Also, if you are interested more about homes for sale in the over 55+ Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community, again call or email me at petra[at]petranorris.com.

Beautiful Mute Swan Nesting In Lakeland FL Lake Morton

2012-05-17T16:55:28Z

Beautiful Mute Swan Nesting In Lakeland FL Lake Morton

Swans are one of the most visible features of Lakeland’s most visible lakes, such as Lake Morton, Lake Mirror, Lake Hollingsworth and Lake Wire. Lakeland has become a representation of swans as they appear everywhere in town, such as in store windows, library counters, promotional literature, logos, banners and on City of Lakeland’s symbol. This is another reason why I love to live in Lakeland.

While sighting of swans were as early as 1923 from lake front residents who purchased the swans as pets, however by 1954 the last swans became prey to alligators, people and dogs. Today, most Lakeland residents know the history of the swans swimming ever so eloquently since 1957 due to the efforts of Lakeland resident Mrs. Robert Pickardt who wrote Queen Elizabeth of England and inquired about purchasing a pair of swans from the Thames River. The Queen would donate a pair providing Lakeland residents would pay for capturing and shipping the royal flock. Needless to say, money was raised and since February 1957 their descendants continue to beautify Lake Morton and other lakes downtown Lakeland FL.

The City of Lakeland has done an outstanding job taking care and protecting these beautiful swans. Spring is the time where the swans begin to build their nest to lay their eggs – a lovely site to see when you walk around Lake Morton. Recently, thieves stole about 40 swan eggs and their motivation is money as the eggs are worth about $150.00 and a cygnet about $300, according to Ledger’s report.

I want to share this Quote I read today by James Thomson

“The stately-sailing swan Gives out his snowy plumage to the gale; And, arching proud his neck, with oary feet Bears forward fierce, and guards his osier isle, Protective of his young.”

Successful Lakeland FL Short Sale Closing With Bank Of America

2012-05-17T13:49:21Z

Recently we had another successful Lakeland FL short sale closing with Bank of America, where the sellers finally walked away free and clear with a little cash to get on with their lives. A Bank of America HAFA short sale which included a Florida Incentive payment for a successfully closed transaction on April 27, 2012 on a single family home in Lakeland FL.

The home has 3 bedrooms/2baths with about 1,689 living square feet. It was purchased in December 2007 for $169,500.

It was sold for $118,500. A decline in market value of 30% within 5 years.

Liens:

1st mortgage balance of $156,000 with Bank of America

Hardship:

Curtailment of Income

I was contacted in October and shortly thereafter receiving all pertinent documents I marketed the property for $129,000 online in November. All required documents including HAFA application were sent through Equator for Bank of America and received an approval in February.

Seller received full waiver of deficiency as well as HAFA and Florida Incentive pay totaling $7,800, buyer received 3% closing cost assistance on USDA loan and closing took place on April 27, 2012 - It took 171 days from listing to closing.

Don’t be foreclosed! Do your research when selecting a Lakeland FL short sale agent to work with. I have experience closing Lakeland FL short sales on both sides of the transaction as a listing agent and buyer’s agent I bring you comprehensive insight and understanding throughout the short sale process.

Short Sale! South Lakeland FL Home for Sale – No Deed Restrictions!

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Neighborhood

$118,500

Single Family Home

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 1,689 sqft
Lot: 13,500 sqft

Location

6411 Calusa Drive
Lakeland, FL 33813
USA

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

Petra Norris

CDV TransAtlantic, Inc. Real Estate Brokerage
(863) 619-6918
pnorris500@gmail.com
http://www.petranorris.com

Listed by: CDV TransAtlantic, Inc Real Estate Brokerage

Our recent listings

Lake Wales FL Homes for Sale – 55+ Twin Fountains Community
Silver Lakes Home in Lakeland FL for Sale

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

Things To Do – Mayfaire By The Lake – Lakeland Fl – Mother’s Day Weekend

2012-05-10T11:36:23Z

Things To Do – Lakeland FL Mayfaire By The Lake – Mother’s Day Weekend 2012

What was once a very small event, Lakeland’s Mayfaire By The Lake has grown in one of the premier events on the shores of the gorgeous Lake Morton. It is indeed a treat for art and music lovers, a true family event that has something for everyone.

With over 155 artists showcasing their crafts, such as jeweleries, paintings, abstract, pottery, and much more I’m sure there is something for everyone.
Children’s tent for kids of all abilities to use their imagination on creating and painting
Free shuttle service will help you get around Lake Morton and the Polk Museum of Art
Food and beverage vendors will be situated around Lake Morton to quench your thirst or still your hunger of your favorite food such as funnel cakes, smoothies, brats and much more
Kids Zone has rock climbing and bounce houses
Live entertainment of local musings from all kinds of genre as well as dance groups on the front lawn of the Lakeland Public Library

Best of all – Admission to the Mayfaire By-The-Lake and the Mayfaire Saturday Night/Festival of Arts and Athlets on Saturday is FREE!

The Mayfaire Saturday Night/Festival of Arts & Athletes is Saturday May 12, 2012 from 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. will have the Mayfaire 5k classic race at Lake Mirror as well as fireworks display. So bring your lawn chair relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset over Lake Mirror.

I have attended many Mayfaires By-The-Lake, which attracts about 65,000 visitors from all around the world, and have purchased art pieces I fell in love with. If you are looking for a gift for your beloved Mother, there are gorgeous art pieces for sale that I’m sure you will cherish for many years to come. It is truly a great time to enjoy Mother’s Day with family and friends.

Lakeland FL Mayfaire By-The-Lake is one of the reason why Lakeland is a family oriented city.

Preparing Your Lakeland Florida Home for Sale for Open House

2012-05-09T01:19:53Z

Preparing Your Lakeland Florida Home for Sale for Open House

Holding an open house for your Lakeland Florida home for sale can be nerve wracking – even if you have the very best agent with you.

Use distinctive décor to make your house easy to spot.

A lot of time could be wasted if you don’t work on making your Lakeland Florida house easy to spot for buyers – especially those who aren’t locals. Using streamers and balloons is always a good idea, but don’t stop there. Be a little creative so that your advertising materials can serve as décor as well. There are, for instance, many cute accessories which you can use to secure balloons and streamers in place.

Prepare lots of parking space.

Park all your cars somewhere else – but not in your street either since those may be used by visiting
homebuyer as well. If possible, ask permission from your neighbors so that potential buyers may also
park their cars in front your neighbors’ homes when you run out of parking space.

Take advantage of natural lighting.

Natural light is more forgiving than artificial lighting. It can bring your entire Lakeland Florida home to life, lending charm to old rooms and adding warmth to new or bare rooms. While you don’t have to take down your windows’ curtains or blinds, just make sure they are open and allowing the sunlight in by the time your visitors start arriving.

Aim for a light and flowery scent.

Instead of using artificial air fresheners, furnish all the rooms in your Lakeland Florida house with
fresh flowers instead. Be sure not to go overboard, though, as this could make the scent of flowers
overpowering and, consequently, unbecoming. If you plan to serve homemade refreshments, make sure that they don’t contain any spices or ingredients with rather strong scents. The delicious scent of freshly baked bread and pastries is, however, unbeatable and always welcome!

Play instrumental music in the background.

Background is the operative word here. The music is meant to serve as part of your home’s background and improve the atmosphere inside your house in Lakeland Florida. It shouldn’t be loud enough to make conversations difficult to maintain. Avoid songs with vocals; they’re an unnecessary distraction.

Serve bite-sized snacks and keep things healthy.

This way, people won’t have to be clustered around the refreshments table. They can enjoy your food and drinks while exploring the rest of your house. Remember to have waste baskets available in all areas.

Get your family to help entertain homebuyers.

People who have lived with you in your Lakeland Florida home for sale are also the best ones to share
amusing anecdotes and wonderful stories about your house. The happy memories you and your loved ones can share about the place are the key to transforming your house into a home in your buyers’ eyes.

Protect Your Privacy When Selling Your Home in Lakeland Florida

2012-05-07T22:47:40Z

Protect Your Privacy When Selling Your Home in Lakeland Florida

When you have a house in Lakeland Florida for sale, it’s easy to find yourself swept away by the millions of things you have to do and prepare for open houses, moving out, and other related activities. In such cases, many homeowners fail to remember that their private lives may suddenly become an open book when visitors start dropping by to inspect their homes.

Put away all photos and personal mementos in the house.

Start with all the pictures, diplomas, and certificates hanging on the walls of your home in Lakeland Florida. Framed pictures, awards and trophies, and souvenirs with your names on it should also be
packed away.

Check each and every drawer for personal items you may have accidentally left behind.

One of the reasons why homeowners are usually advised to reduce the amount of furniture in homes
for sale is to ensure that their privacy isn’t unintentionally invaded as well. Drawers in your living room may still contain important and classified documents.

Buyers have all the right to check the contents of drawers, cupboards, and cabinets. The use of locks is to be avoided at all costs because it reminds homebuyers that the house isn’t theirs, and that’s not the message you want to get across.

Forward all subscribed mail to another address.

If you don’t have a new house in Lakeland Florida to move into yet, you can have all mail forwarded to your parents’ place or a friend’s house for the meantime. Be sure, however, to check the mailbox every day. It may seem snoopy, but a buyer’s still well within his or her rights to inspect your home’s mailbox.

Change all the security codes you are using at home.

Even if you are not leaving the security system to the future owner of your Lakeland Florida house for sale, interested buyers would still typically want to know more about what you do to keep your home safe and secure. For this, you may have to occasionally demonstrate how your security system works, which would consequently require the use of your security code.

Park your vehicles somewhere else.

The most observant individuals can draw a lot of information about you and your loved ones just by
knowing what vehicles you drive. It’s best to play it safe and park your cars somewhere else whenever
you have visitors dropping by. For unexpected visits, use car covers to keep them out of sight – and
hopefully out of mind as well.

Get rid of all reminders, schedules, and sticky notes in your house.

All these to-do notes and reminders can reveal precious information about your personal lives. If you remember to check every nook and cranny of your Lakeland Florida home for them, then you have nothing to worry about.

Successful Lakeland FL Short Sale Closing – 506 Buckshot Lane – Sold!

2012-05-04T16:20:28Z

Successful Lakeland FL Short Sale Closing – 506 Buckshot Lane – Sold!

Another successful short sale closing with Bank of America. When it comes to selling short sales in Lakeland, there are times when buyers walk. Having a short sale specialist on your side when the tough gets going is a must have because not all short sales are smooth transactions. Staying informed about changes, communications between sellers, buyers, lenders, etc. is a must. Listing and selling short sales is not for everyone, do your research before selecting your next Lakeland short sale agent.

Short Sale – Lakeland FL Homes for Sale – Hunters Crossing

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Neighborhood

$130,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

4 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 2,557 sqft
Lot: 9,542 sqft

Location

506 Buckshot Lane
Lakeland, FL 33809
USA

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

Petra Norris

CDV TransAtlantic, Inc. Real Estate Brokerage
(863) 619-6918
pnorris500@gmail.com
http://www.petranorris.com

Listed by: CDV Transatlantic, Inc. Real Estate Brokerage

Our recent listings

Lake Wales FL Homes for Sale – 55+ Twin Fountains Community
Silver Lakes Home in Lakeland FL for Sale

Subscribe to our listing feed

Nearby properties for sale

Lakeland FL Carillon Lakes Housing Market See Normal Inventory

2012-04-24T22:17:08Z

Lakeland FL Carillon Lakes Homes for Sale | Market Report for March 2012

Carillon Lakes in Lakeland Florida was developed over ten years ago and it is a deed restricted community. There are a variety of homes and condominiums situated throughout this lovely neighborhood that was developed in the early 2000. This community provides plenty of activities for its residents as well as for children. The community’s monthly calendar is filled with entertainment like, water aerobics, book buffs, game night, investment clubs and much, much more. The appearance of this community shows pride with manicured lawns and walkways throughout the community and its surrounding lakes.

The Carillon Lakes Community in Lakeland FL offer low monthly home owners association fee provide 24 hr gated manned security, lawn mowing in open area on the properties, usage of tennis court, basket ball courts, swimming pool, fitness center, planned activities and much, much more.

Market Snapshot for the Carillon Lakes Community

For the first time since the housing collapse of 2007, I’m beginning to see a normalization of the real estate market when it comes to inventory supply. Currently the real estate market in this particular community has an inventory supply of about 6 months, which means that is a normal market. Normal market is considered to have about 5-6 months of inventory supply. However, home prices for this community seems to be still declining by about 5% from the previous year.

Carillon Lakes in Lakeland FL has currently a 5 homes for sale that offer great contemporary architectural style built single family homes from 1638 – 2787 square feet of living space ranging from $103,950 – $195,000. There are also currently 9 homes under contract which 6 are short sales, 2 bank-owned and one traditional.

Carillon Lakes Homes for sale in Lakeland FL:

1 homes – Bank-owned/REO – average list price: $103,950

1 homes – Short Sales – average list price: $169,900

3 homes – Traditional – average list price: $181,600

1 Carillon Lake Home was sold in March 2012 with a price of $125,000. Same time last year 3 homes were sold with an average price of $147,833.

If you are considering selling your Carillon Lakes, I would be happy to provide you with a comparable market analysis. All you have to do is call my office at (863) 619-6918. If you are interested in buying a Carillon Lakes home, I would be happy to assist you and provide you with a detailed list of homes that are currently for sale.

March 2012 Sandpiper Real Estate Market Snapshot – Lakeland FL

2012-04-24T15:43:14Z

Lakeland FL Sandpiper Golf Homes – March 2012 Real Estate Market Update

90’s and contain approximately 1200 single homes and villas from over 900 – 2,000 square feet. Homes have 2 or 3 bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, and offer a variety of floor plans and upgrades, such as enclosed patio, flooring, kitchen, appliances, etc. They are mostly used as vacation homes for our Snow Birds as their winter resident; however year around living shows an active lifestyle in this community, such as golfing, swimming, social gatherings, walking, exercising, dining and much more.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club real estate market for March 2012:

In the 55+ age restricted Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community there were four homes sold in March 2012 while 19 homes are currently for sale. Although prices continue to slide for this 55+ adult community, it has very few distressed properties.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Lakeland FL Homes for Sale:

Active Listings: 19 – Declining Inventory

Average list price: $123,300

Median list price: $119,900

Pending Listings: 9 – Increased

Average list price: $106,444

Median list price: $104,900

4 Homes were sold in the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community in March 2012 with an average sales price of $108,375, compared to 2 homes sold the previous year for an average sales price of $140,000 a decline of 23%

6228 Egret Drive – 2b/2b – 1,330 sq.ft Sold: $102,000 – traditional sale

6224 Egret Drive – 3b/2b – 1,697 sq.ft. Sold: $112,500 – traditional sale

1160 Parakeet Trl. – 2b/2b – 1,296 sq.ft. Sold:$89,000 – bank-owned/REO

5801 Sandpipers Dr – 3b/2b – 1,355 sq.ft. Sold: $130,000 traditional sale

If you are interested in selling your Sandpiper Golf & Country Club home and would like to know what your home might sell for, give me a call at (863) 619-6918. Also, if you are interested more about homes for sale in the over 55+ Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community, again call or email me at petra[at]petranorris.com.

Things To Do In Lakeland FL – Annual Lakeland Swan Derby – Free Family Event – April 27, 2012

2012-04-19T15:31:11Z

Things To Do In Lakeland FL – Annual Lakeland Swan Derby – Free Family Event – April 27, 2012

There is always great things to do in Lakeland Florida, wether it is attend First Fridays, Farmer’s Market, spend time at Common Ground or take part at the annual Lakeland Swan Derby at beautiful Lake Mirror. This is happening just a week before the Kentucky Derby, Swan Derby, a great free family event is about to happen on Friday, April 27 starting at 5:30 downtown Lakeland.

The Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine, a vital charity in the Lakeland Community will receive its proceeds from the Lakeland Swan Derby to help the less fortunate with their medical needs. To make it a true family event, organizers have arranged for corn hole toss, bouncy house, balloon artists and a small fishing pond. Concessions and scrumptious food from Fred’s Southern Kitchen is available – so make it a fun family event.

Just like the well known “Kentucky Derby” with all the famous hats and parade, the annual Lakeland Swan Derby is in essence the same, only this Derby features ten beautifully crafted paddle boats that look like swans. The Jockeys compete in a race with the purity of sports entertainment on Lake Mirror in a hometown setting.

There are total of three races:

Race 1 – Maiden Handicap @ 6:15 PM

Race 2 – Celebrity Dash @ 6:45 PM

Race 3 – The Lakeland Derby @ 7:30 PM

The Lakeland Swan Derby is truly a must attend that is fun filled event with live entertainment and fireworks after the sun sets over beautiful Lake Mirror, as all of the other Lakeland FL Events and Attractions that are on the menu throughout the year. Closing out this free family event will be a beautiful fireworks display at 9:30 pm.