Lakeland Florida Living

2011 Lakeland Florida Overall Housing Market Review – A Roller Coaster Ride

2012-01-31T12:13:33Z

2011 Lakeland Florida Overall Housing Market Review – A Roller Coaster Ride

Every month I have watched, researched and written about the Lakeland FL Housing Market to see how we would compare to the same month in 2010 and even prior years. Folks asking me how is the housing market, is it getting any better? Are the prices going up? When will the prices go up?

We started out historically slow in 2011 compared to 2010, but that was done artificially due to the first time homebuyers tax credit which ended officially in April 2010 but if you had a binding contract, closing must have taken place by July 1, 2010. The roller coaster started to climb with rises in between until we took a dive in June as the Lakeland FL housing market hit a midyear low. By August we outperformed average sales price compared to the previous year and it looked for a moment that our local housing market had bottomed out. December ended in the bottom four when it comes to overall average sales price, although overall average sales prices were down, the number of transaction rose and that is the only good news I have.

Here are the Lakeland FL housing market numbers:

In Lakeland FL, a total of 2434 residential properties were sold at an average price of $107,863 in 2011.
In Lakeland FL, a total of 2305 residential properties were sold at an average price of $116,220 in 2010.
Overall average prices were down 7%. Overall transactions (number of sales) was up by 6%.

While these are not horrific declines, they do speak to the angst that continues to dominate the housing market. Moreover, with the new wave of foreclosures coming into the Lakeland FL housing market they do point to 2012 that we may continue the roller coaster ride with up and down prices.

The good news is that the number of transactions improved despite the reduction of foreclosures due to the fraudulent or robo-signing documents that halted the foreclosure process for months resulting foreclosure sales were taken somewhat out of the equation.

How come 2011 Lakeland home prices sucked so badly? Our pipeline with homes under contract (pending) at 538 that includes 323 short sales most of them will not close next month, if at all and that is exactly what happened in 2011. Short sales that weren’t approved or mortgages that didn’t get commitment or clear to close, the pending numbers do not represent a fast approaching housing recovery. Moreover, until we see lenders doing their part to accommodate the seller’s delinquent loans approving them in a timely manner, the housing recovery will remain flat.

The bad news is the Lakeland Florida housing market remains flat. And that will most likely be the new normal market for the foreseeable future.

Prices will remain low due to the distressed housing market. Buyers are more savvy, they don’t want to spend more than they can afford. They want instant equity and with foreclosures and short sales selling at deep discounts, the traditional seller has no other choice than to adjust their listing price if they want or need to sell. In addition, buyers have their own struggles with the lender to commit loaning money to them.

I suspect the roller coaster ride will continue throughout 2012 in Lakeland Florida with up and down prices and up and down sales.

Lakeland FL Carillon Lakes Homes for Sale | Market Report for December 2011

2012-01-22T02:00:33Z

Lakeland FL Carillon Lakes Homes for Sale | Market Report for December 2011

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.

A short distance to major employers such as Publix Supermarkets corporate office and GEICO Insurance as well as shopping at the Lakeside Village, Target and many restaurants situated along Harden Boulevard makes Carillon Lakes in Lakeland Florida a convenient location.Carillon Lakes in Lakeland FL is conveniently located minutes from Polk Parkway and Interstate 4, Carillon Lakes is a 24hr man-gated community situated southwest Lakeland, Florida and has almost 650 homeowners according to their newsletter. Carillon Lakes community has a lot to offer for families and retirees such as swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball court, fitness center, playground and a club house at the Town Center which can be rented for family gatherings such as birthday parties and other social gatherings.

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.

Carillon Lakes in Lakeland FL has currently a 7 homes for sale that offer great contemporary architectural style built single family homes and condominiums from 1756 – 2331 square feet of living space ranging from $95,000 – $189,900. There are also currently 8 homes under contract which are short sales.

Carillon Lakes Homes for sale in Lakeland FL:

2 homes – Bank-owned/REO – average list price: $118,225

3 homes – Short Sales – average list price: $131,000

2 homes – Traditional – average list price: $184,900

2 Carillon Lake Homes were sold in December 2011 and both were sold for $160,000 each. Same month last year 4 homes were sold with an average price of $133,500. Sales price in Carillon Lakes are still trending downwards with an average of 2 1/2 sales per months.

3057 Bellflower Way – 3 bedrooms/2baths; 2,160 sq.ft. – sold for $160,000 – Traditional Sale

3078 Bellflower Way – 4 bedrooms/3baths; 2,510 sq.ft. – sold for $160,000 – Traditional Sale

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.

Lakeland Florida 16th Annual Pigfest – Jan 27 – 28′ 2012

2012-01-21T03:21:13Z

Lakeland Florida 16^th Annual Pigfest - Tiger Town Sport Complex - January 27-28 2012

Where can you get the best barbecue around this time of the year? Lakeland Florida’s Annual Pigfest is the place to be. Not just best barbecue, best entertainment, and best playground for kids, best for all kinds of food. Best part, it is free!

Since 1997 Lakeland Florida has been the host to an annual barbeque competition sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society. The competition involves people of all ages, men and women. For more information on the history of the Pigfest, read my blog from last year’s event, by clicking the link right here.

This year gates open at 5:30pm on Friday, January 27, 2012 to enjoy an evening of music, food, and games. On Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 10:00 am is when the real competition begins. Competitors from all over the country will flock to Lakeland Florida to compete in four different categories including Ribs, Chicken, Pork, and Brisket.

There will also be a Kids-Q where children will compete on their own grills. The Kids-Q was started in 2004 when competitors came to the realization they did not want the art of Barbeque to disappear after they were no longer here so they have brought the kids into the mix by giving them a fun way to participate in the competition. And these kids are phenomenal cooks. Not to mention what a great family event! Read more about things to do with kids in and around Lakeland Florida.

Friday’s entertainment at Center Stage is to include nightriders at 6:00 pm and Soul 2 Earth from 7:00 pm-10:00 pm. But don’t forget about the Backyard ‘Party Stage’ which will feature Cross Traxx and Vertical Circus. While Saturday Center Stage will include Pushin Eighties from 10:00 am- 1:15 pm followed by Brush Creek from 1:45 pm- 5:00 pm. And the Backyard ‘Party Stage’ will play host to The Sweeney Family Band, Madison Mckenzie, Cross Traxx, and Ace Jackson & The Jump Kings Performing throughout the day. LEGOLAND Florida will once again sponsor the Children’s corner and is said to include bounce houses and many other fun surprises.

The great things about this competition are the benefits it brings to Lakeland and its non-for profit organizations. While the event is free to attend, if you would like to enjoy any of the delicious food and drinks, and believe me you will, you will need to purchase ‘Pigbucks’ at the front gate or at any of the other various locations throughout the venue. All the proceeds from sales of “Pigbucks” goes toward non-for profit organizations in the Lakeland area to include the Junior League and Girls, Inc., just to name a couple. Since its inception in 1997 the Pigfest has given over $650,000 dollars back to our wonderful community. Both of these organizations have a focus on bettering those in our community through education. It is through education that people in our community can better themselves and then reach out to others in need.

I hope you are able to make it out to the 16^th Annual Pigfest at Tiger Town Sports Complex on Friday and Saturday January 27-28, 2012. Come partake in the fun filled events and concerts. And bring an empty stomach to taste the world-class food being prepared at this event. Because of events like this is the reason why I love living in Lakeland Florida.

Lakeland FL Sandpiper Golf Homes For Sale – December 2011 Home Prices

2012-01-20T19:30:05Z

Lakeland FL Sandpiper Golf Homes For Sale – December 2011 Real Estate Market Update

Lakeland Fl Sandpiper Golf Home prices for the past twelve months shows that sellers realize to sell their homes quickly, they must price them competitively to achieve their goal. Pricing homes competitively shows in the pending activity because 6 out of 7 homes are listed for under $120,000 with two of the listings are Lakeland foreclosures and one short sale.

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

In the 55+ age restricted Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community there were three homes sold in December 2011 while 28 homes are currently for sale. Although prices have dropped for this 55+ adult community, it has very few distressed properties.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Lakeland FL Homes for Sale:

Active Listings: 28

Average list price: $124,435

Median list price: $122,400

Pending Listings: 7

Average list price: $102,357

Median list price: $97,000

2 Homes were sold in the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community in December 2011.

6039 Kittiwake Drive – 2b/2b – 1125 sq.ft Sold: $87,000

574 Eagle Run – 2b/2b – 1196 sq.ft. Sold: $118,000

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..

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.

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale – 6116 Laurel Oak Drive

2012-01-17T02:03:30Z

Southwest Lakeland FL Homes for Sale – 6116 Laurel Oak Drive

Looking for a rural setting in southwest Lakeland, FL 33811! Bring your RV and your boat, this well maintained Lakeland Florida home has room for it all. This home is nestled in a great location where you find no cookie cutter homes and no deed restrictions. It is away from the hustle and bustle but close to the Interstate, shopping and dining facilities. No banks involved to stall the negotiations, just you and the seller. A lot of home and property for a great price of $175,000.00

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale – Southwest – Oakview Estates

Overview
Maps
Photos
Features
Description

Video
Neighborhood

$175,000

Single Family Home

Main Features

3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Interior: 2,176 sqft
Lot: 0.79 acre(s)

Location

6116 Laurel Oak Drive
Lakeland, FL 33811
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

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Living In Lakeland Florida

2012-01-13T17:09:02Z

Living in Lakeland Florida

When it comes to moving to and living in Lakeland Florida, especially for parents of school age children, a move is a difficult decision to make. Parents are mostly concerned about schools, activities, and neighborhoods just to name a few. Having raised two daughters of my own, I’ve heard them say, “Lakeland is boring”. I’ll bet children say that in every town. For the most part kids growing up here, they always think there is not much to do but what I have come to learn is when compared to other locations I have visited there is plenty of choices in and around Lakeland, FL.

It wasn’t until I had the chance to see other cities around the country that I realized with all Lakeland, FL has to offer our kids can literally do anything they set their mind to. We have an array of theme parks to entertain any age group for a few days. We have free parks around the area to take our kids to and still not visit the same park twice in one week because each park comes with its own amenities. Our children have a choice to where they want to learn and focus their education. Many of these things don’t exist in other cities, states, or even countries unless you have the money to afford it, which makes living in Lakeland Florida a top spot.

One of the tough choices parents make when moving to a new area is where to live since every parent wants the best for the child so therefore one very common question is what is the best school district to live in. Here in Lakeland just like every other Florida city we have our zoned public schools all of which have their own attributes, which others may not demonstrate. However if you decide to move to an area because you love the house but do not want your child to attend the zoned school for one reason or another you have the option to enroll your child in one of the other types of schools Lakeland has to offer. Private schools, Montessori schools, Charter schools, and Magnet schools, Lakeland has them all. Schools where your child can gain more of a focus on the Math and Sciences or schools, which allow your child to gain experience in the Arts and everything in between. If it is the sports you want your child to be involved with we have nationally recognized sports teams also.

If you are afraid your child will be bored during the weekends or over breaks there are numerous parks for entertainment for them. There are Parks for children of all ages. The best part about each of these parks is they are free to visit and they foster kids in their education and social skills. Not to mention the ample opportunity for shopping in and around Lakeland. We have one of the nicest outdoor malls in the area with great restaurants and a movie theater that boasts the newest releases from Hollywood. With being only thirty-minute drive to the next big city it allows you to enjoy the amenities of those cities without the headache of traffic every single day. Orlando and Tampa offer some great activities to the Central Florida area but when it is time to unwind it is nice to know you can come back to Lakeland and escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

Lakeland FL is a great place to live and a wonderful city to raise a family. With the ample education opportunities, the city fosters the ability to develop into a well-rounded individual who cares about the well being of others. The people in Lakeland are the type of people who not only care about themselves but the development of others since it is our future generations that will continue help our wonderful city grow.

Are you thinking about moving to Lakeland Florida and looking for a home to raise your children, then please click on the search for Lakeland homes picture right here below. It’s free and no registration required.

Lakeland FL Homes Just Listed – December 16 through December 31′ 2011

2012-01-05T19:39:22Z

Lakeland FL Homes Just Listed – December 16 through December 31, 2011

Update for the Lakeland FL Homes for Sale! Newly listed homes for the second half of December. A total of 84 Lakeland FL homes were just listed with area Realtors® at an average sales price of $118,261. There are currently 1300 homes for sale in Lakeland FL (January 5, 2012) and 492 homes are under currently contract (pending).

The types of homes and average prices for sale in Lakeland, Florida according to the Multiple Listing Services (MLS) are as follows:

7 duplex units with an average sales price of $52,557

9 manufactured/mobile homes listed with an average sales price of $36,700

6 villas/townhomes listed with a sales price of $84,580

62 single family homes with an average sales price of $140,778

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - Just Listed! The priciest home listed for this time period is a 1980 Single Family pool home, featuring 4 bedrooms 4 baths with over 3,500 square feet of living space. This single family home is located on Lake Howard in the Lone Palm Golf Club community, it is being offered at $750,000. On the contrary, the cheapest Lakeland house for sale – a 1984 bank-owned mobile home listed for this time period featuring 3bedroom/2bath on Davis Road, it is being offered at $9,900 – this mobile home is of no value.

All data for this report was obtained from the Mid-Florida Regional MLS, it is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This report does not include “For Sale By Owner”.

Lakeland FL Homes for Sale – take a look at the breakdown by zip code:

33801 – 08 with an average sales price of $40,113

33803 – 06 with an average sales price of $124,867

33805 – 10 with an average sales price of $134,477

33809 – 11 with an average sales price of $99,236

33810 – 18 with an average sales price of $101,022

33811 – 05 with an average sales price of $143,728

33812 – 05 with an average sales price of $182,880

33813 – 15 with an average sales price of $134,279

33815 – 06 with an average sales price of $160,300

Update on Lakeland FL Foreclosures and Short Sales:

A total of 450 Lakeland homes are currently actively being marketed that are facing foreclosure or are listed as short sales. There were 47 Lakeland FL houses newly listed in the distressed category as Bank Owned and Short Sale with an average price of $90,934 which equals to $49.91 per square foot. There are currently 371 distressed homes under contract awaiting closing, the majority of these homes are Lakeland FL Short Sales.

Check out this interactive map of Lakeland FL Homes for Sale - I’m sure you will find great deals and best of all, you can move the map in any direction you want to move it to – all over the United States.

Lakeland FL Short Sale and Foreclosure Market Report – November 2011

2011-12-30T19:35:52Z

For the month of November, the Lakeland real estate market of short sales and bank-owned (REO) properties has decreased. There were a total of only 92 distressed homes sold that were in some kind of distress, compared to the 98 homes the previous month and 74 home the previous year.

Current inventory for Lakeland FL foreclosures as of 12/30/11 is at 85, while 51 homes currently are under contract and awaiting closing.

What are the price ranges, buyers and investors are most interested?

Lakeland Foreclosures Market Report

$49,999 or under – 25 homes

$50,000 – $99,999 – 14 homes

$100,000 – $149,999 – 10 homes

$150,000 – $199,999 – 1 homes

$200,000 – $249,999 – 1 home

Current inventory for Lakeland Short Sales as of 12/30/11 is at 359 homes, while 330 homes are under contract and waiting to close.

Lakeland Short Sales Market Report

$49,999 or under – 7 homes

$50,000 – $99,999 – 20 homes

$100,000 – $149,999 – 10 homes

$150,000 – $199,999 – 3 homes

$250,000 – $299,999 – 1 home

The Graph below compares sold homes in all categories – Traditional Sales (None Distressed), Lakeland Foreclosures (REO) and Lakeland Short Sales

Average days to Closing for bank-owned properties are 82 days

Average days to Closing for other distressed properties are 280 days.

41 Lakeland FL Short Sale properties sold – average soldprice$96,700 – median sold price $91,000.

51 Lakeland FL Foreclosures (REO) sold – average sold price $67,530 – median sold price $56,000

Low Lakeland Florida foreclosure inventory may be the answer for you if you are contemplating short sales and your family and friends telling you that buyers only work the foreclosures. Don’t be fooled, putting your home on the market as a short sale may be your best option now as buyers are frustrated in the bidding war against investors. Buyers are willing to look at buying Lakeland short sales.

Don’t let time be against you. Don’t be foreclosed. Call your Lakeland FL Short Sale Agent – Petra Norris at (863) 619-6918 and find out about our options.

Lakeland FL Existing Overall Home Prices – November 2011

2011-12-30T15:20:48Z

Lakeland FL Existing Overall Home Prices – November 2011

Average overall Lakeland existing home prices dropped to $109,606 in November from the previous month. Overall median home prices for existing homes in Lakeland Florida also decreased from the previous month as well as from the previous year. While the inventory of Lakeland foreclosures is down, distressed properties continue to be a major contributor in determining market values for Lakeland FL homes, November market share of distressed homes was 51% which is an indication that buyers are more willing to stick with short sales as banks are willing to approve short sales in a shorter time frame.

Lakeland Homes sold in November: 181 previous month:189 – previous year November 10: 135 sold

November – average sales price $109,606

Previous month: $115,266 (-4.91%) – previous year November 10: $120,461 (-4.31%)

November – median sales price $95,000

Previous month: $105,000 (-9.52%) – previous year November 10: $102,000 (-6.86%)

The graph below represents average and median home prices in Lakeland for various categories. When our media provides us with a real estate market reports, generally these reports outline only Single Family Homes and Condominiums. Lakeland Florida has a variety of homes, such as manufactured homes, town-homes, villas and duplex units.

What are the various average prices in each Lakeland zip code?

Take a look at my spreadsheet below. I’ve separated the report by zip code instead of school zones; it gives you a more accurate report in my opinion. The data and graphs for this report were obtained from the Mid-Florida Regional MLS, it is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This report does not include “For Sale By Owner”. The numbers highlighted in pink represents the zip codes where average sold prices have exceeded.

Distressed properties in Lakeland, Florida

For the month of November, Lakeland’s real estate market of distressed homes had a market share of 51%. There were a total of 92 homes sold in November, according to Mid-Florida Regional MLS.

Check back soon for November’s detailed Lakeland Florida real estate report that highlights bank-owned properties (REOs) and Lakeland Short Sales.

If you are interested in a specific area or neighborhood, feel free to contact me at petra[at]petranorris.com or click the search button below.

Lakeland FL Sandpiper 55+ Community Market Report – November 2011

2011-12-26T20:28:39Z

Lakeland FL Sandpiper 55+ Community Market Report – November 2011

Sandpiper Golf & Country Club Home prices for the past twelve months shows that sellers realize to sell their homes, they must price them competitively to achieve a balanced market. Within the past 12-month the real estate market continues to show that this 55+ community is a buyer’s market even though home prices have increased for the past three months.

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

In the 55+ age restricted Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community there were three homes sold in November 2011 while 30 homes are currently for sale. Although prices have dropped for this 55+ adult community, it has very few distressed properties.

A snapshot of the Sandpiper Lakeland FL Homes for Sale:

Active Listings: 30

Average list price: $120,700

Median list price: $122,400

Pending Listings: 4

Average list price: $113,425

Median list price: $111,950

3 Homes were sold in the Sandpiper Golf & Country Club community in November 2011.

6152 Magpie Drive – 3 bedrooms/2baths SFH – 1531 sq.ft. Sold $124,000

733 Eagle Run – 2 bedrooms/2baths SFH – 1261 sq.ft. Sold $115,000

5814 Mallard Drive – 3 bedrooms/2baths SFH – 1770 sq.ft. Sold $150,000

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 55+ community, such as golfing, swimming, social gatherings, walking, exercising, dining and much more..

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.