Koolik Group Realty Proudly Supports the Spanish River Football Booster Club

Elliot Koolik of Koolik Group Realty is a proud sponsor of the Spanish River High School football booster club in Boca Raton, Florida.  Click here for more info on the Shark football family.

News Update from Koolik Group Realty

What's up Boca?

The residential real estate market has been picking up as sales in Boca Raton area are up from last year.

With only 2 weeks left to go to finish off the 2010 year, we highly expect to surpass the 2009 year-to-date total. We look forward to bringing the current momentum into the New Year!

Be sure to check out our blog in January for a great series brought to you by NMB Custom Homes & Renovations: "11 Reasons to Build a New Home in 2011."

Last month's Boca Raton Executive Club meeting featured innovator, entrepreneur & philanthropist, John Ferber who sold his company to AOL/Time Warner in 2004 for $496 million dollars.

Executive Club member, Joanie Shagrin from SendOutCards.com remarked : "I found John Ferber's presentation on the internet, enreprenuership and the path to success so interesting. His point about allowing yourself to take risks that may lead to failure in order to reach success is so valuable. Selling his company for $500 million didn't happen overnight and didn't happen without previous stumbling blocks. Networking with the members at EC has been truly valuable to my business growth."

This month we are honored and excited to annouce that Warren Struhl will be our guest speaker for the Wednesday, January 5th, 2011 meeting in the Ballroom at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida.

The team at Koolik Group Realty would like to say thank you and wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and happy New Year!

Boca Raton, Florida - A Lifestyle Destination

Boca Raton is truly a diverse yet cozy city; it has a lot to offer anyone; from young children to the elderly snow birds who come down each winter. The parks, the historic buildings, Florida's beaches, "A" rated schools, universities and plenty of shopping and restaurants, Boca Raton is rich in arts and culture and a great place to live and raise a family.

Anyone looking to buy a home in Boca Raton will surely benefit from the wide array of properties whether oceanfront, Intracoastal or within in a gated or country club community, the options are endless. With its palm tree lined streets, picturesque fountains and Mediterranean style architecture, Boca Raton has certainly become a lifestyle destination to both residents and tourists alike.

Boca Raton realtor, Elliot Koolik from Koolik Group Realty is optimistic about the current market; "We have a great inventory of properties and a good number of local and foreign buyers looking to invest in the lifestyle our area offers."

South Florida, in particular, is a popular dwelling for a large number of gated communities that offer first class, resort-style living. Residences in the greater Boca Raton area suggest opulence, luxury and often have the newest amenities available. By delivering countless options even to the most discerning buyer, one can choose a property; as well as, a lifestyle that suits one's needs.

It is not surprising that South Florida is such a popular place to live the resort lifestyle; highly sought after year-round weather conditions and the beauty of the land and accessibility to the ocean appeal to many. Membership within these many country club communities has expanded to include much more than simply golfing. There are camps for kids, well equipped gyms, 5-star restaurants, lagoon-style pools, luxurious spas and relaxing salons. Water sports and boating opportunities are also easily accessible when living in a Boca Raton gated and country club community.

"It is exactly this exclusive lifestyle that makes for a solid investment. Property values stay high and the resale value is even higher as renovations within these communities allow the home to appreciate value steadily." remarked Koolik.

Boca Raton Realtor & Triathlete Conquers The Florida Ironman For Woodfield Cancer Research Unit

On November 6th 2010, Elliot Koolik, Woodfield Country Club resident and Boca Raton realtor at Koolik Group Realty in Boca Raton and triathlete competed in the Florida Ironman in Panama City, Florida. In just one day, athletes set out to race in a competition that is comprised of: 140.6 miles: 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and a 26.2 mile run. The Ironman is arguably the greatest test of physical strength and endurance a triathlete could attempt. But it takes a lot more than just stamina to compete in this race. It takes focus, passion and discipline.

Koolik, one of the top producing Boca Raton realtors can be seen showing homes during the day and training in Woodfield Country Club for the Ironman in the early hours of the morning. "Although these have been challenging times in the real estate market, I strive to remain sensitive to peoples needs & situations while having a strong understanding of others expectations. I wanted to take this philosophy and the level of focus and discipline that I apply to real estate and challenge myself to accomplish my goals to become an Ironman."

In the process of preparing himself both mentally and physically for this challenge, Koolik wanted to take his focus, discipline and commitment and apply it a cause that he is passionate about. In just four months, Koolik raised $8,592.60 for the Papanicolaou Corps for Cancer Research which will benefit the local Woodfield Cancer Research Unit. Elliot and his wife Wendy, have been passionate about the Woodfield Cancer Research Unit since the beginning and hope that they can continue raising awareness and funds for cancer research.

Koolik would often get up at 4:00 a.m. to swim, bike or run in his community; Woodfield Country Club. He maintains that his drive to be a top agent and provide the best service is also what drives him to commit to daily trainings, regardless of how grueling. Koolik placed 1896 out of a total of 2800 competitors; however, in his age range, he placed at 342nd place.

Jennifer Lublin, who recently bought a home in Woodfield Country Club agrees that it is Koolik's non-stop dedication to his client's needs that sets him apart from the rest. "In my experience, working with a seasoned real estate professional - whether it be on the listing or buying side - makes the process smoother. Elliot and his team went above and beyond to make sure I was happy with my purchase while being patient and understanding."

To learn more about Boca Raton realtor Elliot Koolik and Koolik Group Realty, click here. 

Gorgeous Custom Courtyard Home $1,295,000

Reduced by $100k!

Just off the cul-de-sac, this custom courtyard home features four bedrooms, four bathrooms and three car garage on a sprawling golf course in the Landings subdivision at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida.

Click here for more information.

John Ferber to Present at December 1st Meeting at Woodfield Country Club

Please join us for the upcoming Boca Raton Executive Club meeting on Wednesday, December 1st at 12-noon. The meeting will take place at the Ballroom at Woodfield Country Club and will feature John Ferber, online marketing futurist, innovator, entrepreneur and philanthropist.

Click here for more info..

To RSVP, please email Michelle at MClubb@Koolik.com.

Boca Raton Executive Club

Last month's Boca Raton Executive Club meeting featured FAU Men's B-Ball Head Coach and Woodfield Country Club resident: Coach Mike Jarvis. Coach Jarvis gave a riveting presentation on character, preserving a legacy and the lessons he has learned along the way. It was an inspirational presentation - to say the least.

The Boca Raton Executive Club, one of the top networking groups that meet in Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, is excited to announce its guest speaker for the December 1st meeting: John Ferber. The Boca Raton Executive Club meets the first Wednesday of each month at 12:00 noon at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida.

“We are excited to have such a young successful entrepreneur join us as our guest speaker,” said Boca Raton real estate agent and founder of the networking group, Elliot Koolik.

John Ferber is widely known as an online marketing futurist and innovator. These days, he is a dedicated philanthropist and entrepreneur.

As a pioneer of the digital world, Ferber co-developed the world’s first interactive multiple player video game called “HoverRace.” He also developed a software product called “ClickTracker,” which laid the foundation to tracking and measuring sales on the internet.

John and his brother Scott were co-founders of Advertising.com, which was acquired by Time Warner and its subsidiary AOL in 2004 for $496 million dollars. Advertising.com is one of the world’s largest interactive marketing services companies. Under John’s direction as Chief Product Officer, Advertising.com’s products and technologies set the trend for the industry. Advertising.com has been considered the prototype for online marketing, winning numerous awards such as ClickZ’s “Best Optimization Technology” (2002) and “Best Advertising Network” (2004).

To Read More, click here..

Koolik Group Realty Newsletter

Click here for the latest news update from Koolik Group Realty and get your free coupon!

Feel free to forward this on and browse our properties for sale in the greater Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach areas at www.Koolik.com.

Boca Raton Real Estate Agent Optimistic About Homes For Sale in Palm Beach County, Florida

Elliot Koolik, leading real estate agent of Koolik Group Realty announced today that he is confident that the local housing market is picking back up. Koolik specializes in gated country club communities and luxury condominiums in the greater Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach areas.

Since the beginning of June 2010, recent home sales for the Boca Raton real estate agent have increased. Koolik has sold twelve properties representing the selling side, while he represented the buyer for an additional three properties, totaling fifteen properties sold since early June of this year. Most buyers have been interested in Palm Beach County, Florida homes for sale.

In October, Koolik had two transactions pending on homes for sale in Palm Beach County, Florida; one of those properties is located in Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton and was only on the market for nineteen days before the seller's accepted an offer. The other is located in nearby Woodfield Hunt Club and went under contract in just six days of being on the market.

The seller was in the process of relocating and therefore was pleasantly surprised when receiving the offer. "We knew that in today's market, it would take a bit of sacrificing to sell our home quickly; however, when we received an offer within 12% of the asking price, we could not have been happier." added the seller, Lewis Fogel.

"People are realizing that now is the time to buy; this market is extremely value driven as consumers want to know that they are getting the biggest bang for their buck and when they feel confident, they are not afraid to make an offer" added Koolik.

Upcoming Executive Club Meeting with Motivational Speaker, TV Analyst, & FAU Men’s Basketball Head Coach: Mike Jarvis

Click below to read more about Mike Jarvis:
Nov. 2nd - Upcoming Executive Club Meeting via #constantcontact

About the Boca Raton Executive Club:
The Boca Raton Executive Club has been designed as an influential networking group and was founded by Elliot Koolik of Koolik Group Realty in 2001. The concept behind the Club is to network with successful professionals from Woodfield Country Club along with many other high level executives in the greater Boca Raton area.

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 2nd followed by a meeting on Wednesday, December 1st at 12 - noon in the Ballroom at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida. Each month, the club features a dynamic guest speaker while a buffet luncheon is served for the cost of $19.00, minus gratuity.

Each Executive Club candidate will be considered and is subject to approval by the membership committee and applications will be considered on a first come, first serve basis. Executive Club members receive maximum exposure and a chance to develop new business contacts within Boca Raton, Woodfield Country Club; as well as, the surrounding area.

Within the Club, we take great pride in the fact that all members work towards helping one another. One of the most important attributes of the club is its referral system. As business professionals, we realize that word of mouth is one of the strongest and greatest methods of reaching large groups of people. As we like to say, a referral is the greatest compliment we can receive.

To hear more about our guest speaker and to network with local professionals in the greater Boca Raton area, please contact Elliot Koolik at (561) 843-0918 or Jason Solodkin for more info (954) 873-1001.

To ensure a spot for the November 2nd and December 1st event, please email Michelle Clubb at MClubb@Koolik.com.

New Episode of What's Up Woodfield?

In this 5th episode of What's Up Woodfield? -- I have the great pleasure to interview fellow Woodfield Country Club resident in Boca Raton, Florida who has helped bring tremendous attention to the oil spill disaster in the Gulf.

Meet Dr. R. Mack Harrell; singer, songwriter, endocrinologist and WCC neighbor, who composed a poignant song titled "Oil and Water" which was selected as one of the top 5 songs in the USA Today song contest this past August.

To download "Oil and Water" or to hear more of Mack's incredible music, click here.

Boca Raton Real Estate Agent Launches Free Guide with Local Area & School Information

Whether new to the Boca Raton and Delray Beach area or just looking to explore the surrounding neighborhoods; look no further than Koolik Group Realty’s new Boca Raton Area Real Estate Guide. The guide showcases a variety of sought after homes for sale in Boca Raton in golf and tennis country club communities and luxury condominiums, such as Woodfield Country Club, Long Lake Estates, Boca Grove, and Mizner Grand in the Boca Raton area, in addition to Grande Orchid and Saturnia Isles in the Delray Beach area. The guide is available to download at http://www.koolik.com/ or click here!

Looking to move within Boca Raton but apprehensive about staying in a particular school district? Koolik Group Realty’s guide offers a comprehensive look into the Palm Beach County school district. The guide provides information and links to boundary maps, zoning, ratings, calendars, and test scores to help choose the right elementary, middle, or high school.

Boca Raton real estate agent and owner of Koolik Group Realty, Elliot Koolik, states that “the objective of this guide is to provide residents and visitors alike with a myriad of information including links, maps, a directory of golf courses and popular local attractions. We hope that this guide will serve as a one stop shop to further explore and get to know our area”

Pink Ribbon Luncheon at Woodfield Country Club

Let’s support the South Florida Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and stand up to cancer together by attending the 5th annual Pink Ribbon luncheon at Woodfield Country Club on Wednesday, October 20th from 10:00 am till 1:00 pm.

President of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Elizabeth Thompson, will be the guest speaker presenting on the topic: “What’s New in Breast Cancer Research.”

Susan G. Komen for the Cure is a global breast cancer organization that was founded to save lives and end breast cancer forever by empowering people, ensuring quality care for all and energizing science to find the cures. Diverse fundraisers such as “Race for the Cure,” and the “Annual Pink Ribbon Luncheon” help raise money for the South Florida Affiliate which serves Palm Beach, Martin and St. Lucie Counties. Up to 75% of money raised, stays in the community, while 25% goes for research, education, and legislation.

“The objective of the Pink Ribbon Luncheon is to and always will be education; after all, breast cancer knows no age or ethnicity, it attacks indiscriminately.” states Fern Duberman, Event Chairman and President of Special Effects Interiors, Inc.

Join honorary chairs, Lisa and Bob Marton for this fundraising event by registering now at http://www.komensouthflorida.org/ or call 561-514-3020. Alternatively, you can reach Fern Duberman at 561-445-3172

2010 Pink Ribbon Luncheon at Woodfield Country Club

Wednesday, October 20th, 2010 10 am

at Woodfield Country Club

3650 Club Place

Boca Raton, Florida

33496

To purchase tickets - click here to BUY ONLINE.

Think Pink Rocks Concert in Mizner Park, Boca Raton, FL this Saturday, October 9th, 2010

At this time, 1 in every 8 American women is affected with breast cancer in their lifetime. This weekend there is an amazing concert that will not only bring great music to residents of the surrounding Boca Raton, FL area, but will also help bring forth additional awareness to this disease that affects so many women.

The concert is the 3rd Annual Think Pink Rocks Concert. It will be held this Saturday, October 9th starting at 7pm at Mizner Park in Boca Raton, Florida. The intention of the concert is to raise awareness for breast cancer. The line up of artists is remarkable and for only $40, you will be able to watch and listen to some incredible musical performances and you’ll also be able to help raise funds for many breast cancer charities.

As a son whose father has battled cancer and won the fight, I know the significance of making sure people understand that cancer affects anyone regardless of their race, color, financial status or religion. Although my family has not been touched personally by breast cancer, I know that breast cancer has touched and will touch many lives - including many of my friends.

Click here to continue and read more.





Building or Renovating - Why You Should Hire a General Contractor

Your home is your biggest investment. Whether you want to build a new home or renovate your current home, trying to decide if you should hire a general contractor or if you can do it yourself can often be difficult. Will it cost me more money? What about timing? Can I do this myself?

A general contractor should always be on the list of must haves. Many people believe that if they do the leg work themselves and hire the subcontractor(s) directly that they will save money. This is not always true. Often, a subcontractor will give a GC a lower price for the same contracted work since they know what job conditions to expect. They can assume that the scheduling will be organized and they can complete their scope of work in the most efficient manner. They also have ongoing relationships with your GC and are more apt to “throw something in” if there are minor changes as well as coming back for warranty work. In addition, your GC has access to multiple subcontractors for every item and can easily, quickly and competitively out bid your project, giving you the opportunity to save a lot of money.

We have all heard the horror stories of projects that seem simple but ultimately drag on for many months or even years. When you hire a GC, the experience in the industry can save you a tremendous amount of time. He/she knows how long each subcontractor will need to complete their work and who can be scheduled to work simultaneously. He/she knows how to schedule inspections properly and build rapport with inspectors to be sure that all work is being done to local building codes and passes inspection in a timely manner. Subcontractors will respond more quickly to a GC that gives him repeated work and will complete their job and return for warranty work as contracted.

Your GC is an expert in his/her field much like a doctor or lawyer is an expert in theirs. You would never consider doing your own medical procedures, nor should you assume you know how to supervise a plumber or electrician. Is the contractor using the correct materials? Is the job being done according to local building codes? Do you really need that “upgrade” or should that be included standard? In addition to those important issues, your GC will make sure subcontractors have the proper licenses and insurance, supply lien releases and permit all of the work so you will have no problems in the future.

Selecting an experienced GC like Ian Koolik of NMB Custom Homes and Renovations in Boca Raton, Florida will save you money, move your project along quickly, and make sure that you are thrilled with the end result. He will make your project seamless and easy. Ian is a licensed General Contractor, serving Florida for over 18 years. He specializes in custom residential projects in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach. His personal service, attention to detail and strong work ethic will make him the winning addition to your team.

To contact Ian Koolik of NMB Custom Homes and Renovations, LLC, email him at Ian@Koolik.com or call him directly at (561)-883-1576.

Fran Drescher goes Pink At the 7th Annual Go Pink Luncheon

You’ll be amazed and ultimately inspired by actress and cancer survivor Fran Drescher, best known as the lovable “Miss Fine” on the ‘90s hit series The Nanny. In 2000, Fran was diagnosed with cancer. Because it was caught early, surgery was successful and she has been cancer free ever since. Since then, Fran authored a NY Times bestseller, Cancer Schmancer, about her experiences as a cancer patient. Today, she is an outspoken advocate for cancer awareness and early detection as well as patient knowledge and empowerment.

The Go Pink Luncheon is South Florida’s premier event for women’s health education and wellness. With amazing speakers, a scrumptious luncheon, and the fabulous Mercedes Benz of Delray Pink Daisy Pick Raffle, this year’s event promises to be another sell-out.

The Luncheon benefits Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation’s Go Pink Challenge, a fundraising initiative that raises awareness and funds in support of the Institute for Women’s Health & Wellness and the Lynn Cancer Institute.

Join Keynote Speaker, Fran Drescher and Guest Speaker, Louise Morrell, MD and the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer – at this not-to-be-missed women’s health event right here in our own community!

This 7th Annual Go Pink Luncheon will occur on Thursday, October 28th, 2010 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Boca Raton Resort & Club located at 501 E Camino Real in Boca Raton, Florida. Tickets are available for purchase at $125 per person.

For sponsorship and ticket information, please contact Kimberly Read at the Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation at 561.995.5168 or kread@brrh.com

Koolik Group Realty Continues Seeing an Increase in International Buyers

The Florida Association of Realtors recently conducted a survey about realtors and their personal experiences with international buyers. The survey was conducted between the months of July and August and a total number of 936 responses were received. It turns out that approximately two in every three Florida realtors have conducted at least one international transaction within the past year. According to FloridaRealtors.org “One in five [realtors] worked with two international clients, and 18 percent [are] working with three or more.”

Western Europe and the United Kingdom account for a 29% share of these foreign buyers while Latin America, including Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America accounted for 16%. Although the Orlando-Kissimmee area accounts for 19% of homes bought by international buyers, the Ft-Lauderdale – Miami area is close behind with 17% of the buyers choosing to live in our area.

At Koolik Group Realty, this does not come as a shock. "International homeowners and investors are seeing the US real estate market as a great place to invest in, especially with the weak US dollar. Our office has been showing real estate properties to a wide array of individuals whether from Latin America, England or Germany," said Elliot Koolik, CEO of Koolik Group Realty. "Our realtors are helping people find primary homes, secondary homes; as well as, vacation homes.”

To read more highlights of this report, please click here.

Palm Beach County Residents have until September 16th, 2010 to Challenge the Proposed Tax Assessment

How do you know if you should challenge your assessment?

Look up your property’s proposed value & tax at: http://www.co.palm-beach.fl.us/papa/aspx/GeneralSearch/GeneralSearch.aspx

As you scroll to the bottom of your detailed property page, you will see that Palm Beach County has listed your property's proposed 2010 Appraised Value & Taxes.

If you feel that the value is not reflective of what your home value was around January 1st, 2010, then you may want to challenge the assessment.

To challenge the assessment:

1. Fill out for DR-486 by visiting: http://www.co.palm-beach.fl.us/papa/Forms/dr486fillable.pdf or you can fill out an online from at*: https://myvab.mypalmbeachclerk.com/2010/ .

2. Mail the form with a $15 non-refundable filing fee per parcel to: County Governmental Center Value Adjustment Board / 301 N Olive, Room 203 / West Palm Beach, FL 33401.

If you want to file in person, you can deliver your form & check to room 104 on the first floor. If you have questions, please call the VAB at (561)-355-6289.

*PLEASE NOTE: If you fill out the form online – the $15 payment must still be mailed. If payment does not reach the VAB by September 16th, your application will be considered null & void. (Koolik Group Realty is not offering legal advice.)

Koolik Continues the Adopt-A-Highway Program

Elliot Koolik of Koolik Group Realty recently announced that he will continue to work with Florida’s Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Adopt-A-Highway program.

The program allows any group or organization to adopt a two mile section of right-of-way along a state road or interchanges on Interstate-95 to collect litter helping to drastically reduce the cost of litter removal. Koolik has been supporting the Adopt-A-Highway program for over 14 years, adopting two different sections of roadway in Boca Raton, Florida to make sure that the surrounding area is well taken care of and litter-free for generations to come.

25% Of Golf Course Homes For Sale in Palm Beach County Are Located In Boca Raton, Florida

Golf course homes have always been desirable, especially in the many country club communities found in South Palm Beach County, Florida such as Woodfield Country Club, St. Andrews Country Club and Mizner Country Club in Boca Raton.

According to Realtor, Elliot Koolik, “The first half of the year has seen an overall increase in homes for sale in comparison to the first half of 2009. However, in reviewing the popularity of golf course homes in Palm Beach County and in comparing that with Boca Raton; it is astonishing that roughly 25 % of all golf course homes for sale in Palm Beach County are located in Boca Raton, Florida.”

To find that perfect golf course home, contact an agent at Koolik Group Realty or feel free to fill out a “Contact Us” form online and we will be sure to contact you.

Elliot Koolik of Koolik Group Realty will be competing at the Ironman Florida 2010 while simultaneously raising funds for the Papanicolaou Corps for Cancer Research, Inc.

When Boca Raton realtor and resident Elliot Koolik is not taking clients to view homes for sale in Boca Raton, Florida, he is working diligently to bring awareness to the Papanicolaou Corps For Cancer Research, Inc. When this tri-athlete steps up to the starting line at the Ironman Florida on November 6th for the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile run he will not be competing just for himself, he will also be raising money for the Papanicolaou Corps for Cancer Research, Inc which will also benefit Boca Raton’s local unit: Woodfield Cancer Research. Koolik has been extremely passionate about the Woodfield Cancer Research Unit since its inception and will be racing to meet his fundraising goal of $10,000. Click here to read more.

Boca Raton: # 5 Popular Vacation Destination & 2nd Homeowners Paradise

At Koolik Group Realty, we have continued to see an increase of out of state buyers and foreign individuals looking to own a second residence or vacation home in Boca Raton, Florida. According to this recent article published on http://www.rismedia.com/, Boca Raton is becoming a very popular vacation hotspot! Click on the following link: http://bit.ly/BocaTop5 to read more and see why Boca Raton is at the number 5 spot on the “emerging travel hotspots” list!

South Palm Beach County Hurricane Preparation Tips & Links

As hurricane season is just a few weeks away, Floridians are cautioned to get ready for the worst; as it has been reported that this year will be one of the most active storm seasons on record.

Below are a few ideas that could help minimize damages and conserve your efforts:

First and foremost, check your insurance policies to see if you have flood insurance as flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance. If you would like to see if you qualify for the National Flood Insurance Program, call 1888-CALL-FLOOD ext. 445.

Second, secure your home by making sure that you have impact resistant garage doors and windows or even hurricane shutters. If you have none of the above, contact a contractor to help in reinforcing the doors and windows.

Third, make sure to hurricane-proof your surroundings. Have a good look at the trees around your home. Do the trunks or major limbs look damaged or diseased? Are your trees leaning in a certain direction? Keep a close eye on this, as trees can often cause considerable damage to homes and cars. Make sure to also secure your outdoor belongings such as: trash bins, grills, toys, potted plants and yes, even garden gnomes.

Fourth, put together an emergency plan, not only for your family but also for your pets. Know where your important papers and prescription medications are located. Have the latter in waterproof containers or a watertight bag. Animals should have their leashes, carriers and papers readily available, as well.

It is also imperative to have a disaster supply kit on hand. Stock up on plenty of water; it has been recommended to stock at least 1 gallon of water, per person, per day, for the duration of 3-7 days. If possible, also arrange to have 3-7 days worth of food (for animals and people) available, such as non-perishable packaged or canned food and juices.

Last, but not least, remember to also pack your day to day essentials. Grab a can opener, cooking tools, paper plates, plastic utensils, blankets, pillows, seasonal clothing, a first aid kit, toiletries and hygiene items; as well as, flashlights with extra batteries, a back up cell phone charger/battery, cash, pet care items, a tool kit and a vehicle with a full tank of gas, just in case you need to evacuate at a minutes notice.

If history is set to repeat itself, then it is important that Floridians hope for the best, yet prepare for the worst.

Links for Further Information:

Ways To Hurricane Proof Your Home:

http://www.hurricaneproof.com/index.php 

Storm Tracking:

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

Weather Channel Tropical Update:

http://www.weather.com/newscenter/tropical/

Palm Beach County Shelters:

http://www.pbcgov.com/publicsafety/emergencymanagement/shelters.htm

Florida Shelters:
https://floridanss.communityos.org/cms/openshelters

Florida Hurricane News & Information Center Facebook Fan Page:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=115075108521188&ref=ts

The Results are in: Boca Raton has been voted the # 2 City for Startup Businesses by Bloomberg Businessweek.

Our lovely city has been dubbed "Silicon Beach" as we hold on to our geeky past of being ultra tech-savvy individuals (thanks to IBM). With our population estimated around 74,000; almost half of that population holds a Bachelors Degree and for every 10,000 people that live here, Bloomberg states that there are 15 patents held per 10,000. Not bad, eh?

(http://images.businessweek.com/ss/10/04/0422_top_ten_startup_cities/3.htm).

The Expanded and Extended Homebuyer Tax Credit for Current and New Home Owners

First time home buyers are currently in a great position, not only are they able to take advantage of the higher homestead exemptions, and lower interest rates but also the new tax law to benefit real estate called the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The first time home buyer tax credit as enacted in November 2009 extends the credit until April 30, 2010. It states that as long as the purchaser has a written binding contract to purchase a home by April 30, 2010, the purchaser will have until July 1, 2010 to close. With the expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit toward the end of 2009, “Florida ranked third nationally in the number of people filing for the tax credit (105,608), trailing only California (160,325) and Texas (131,411)” according to the Associated Press.


These numbers are sure to have risen since then as the extended homeowner tax credit also expanded the credit to grant up to $6,500 to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010. The tax credit will equal up to 10 per cent of the home purchase price up to $6500. Buyers may even construct a new home as a principal residence on a lot that has already been purchased to qualify for the credit. In this case, the date of purchase is calculated as the first day of move in.

Although the tax credit was constructed to give every one a piece of the American dream, limitations have been set. Tax law for real estate requires that the cost of the home purchased may not be priced above $800,000 to qualify for this. Note that the credit does not apply to those wishing to buy a home from ancestors or from lineal descendents. Individuals who are claimed as dependents or are under the age of 18 also do not qualify for the expanded tax credit.

The current homeowner definition for eligibility states that one must have used the home sold as a principal residence for five of the previous eight years for buyers to meet the criteria as long-time residents. If the home purchased is sold or those individuals move out of the residence within three years of the purchase date, the IRS will likely ask for the credit back. The tax credit is sure to stimulate the market and encourage spending for those who have done their due diligence. With that in mind, is it fair to say that those who do not take advantage of this extended homeowners tax credit opportunity and this market; may regret it in later years?

Starbucks Now Uses Iphone App to Accept Payments

Great news for all you Starbucks drinkers out there - - Now you can use the Starbucks iphone application to pay for your coffee at more than 1000 Target locations throughout the United States.


When I searched to see if any Target stores around Boca Raton, Florida are participating in this new feature, it seems that most of them in our area of South Palm Beach County, FL are accepting this new form of payment.

I'm sure that consumers and coffee retailers can agree that this new application is very significant. While the Starbucks Card Mobile application seemed like a great idea (who doesn’t love the thought of having their iPhone scanned to pay for coffee?), in the past it could only be used at 16 retail stores in Seattle, Washington and Silicon Valley in Northern California. Now that over 1000 additional Starbucks inside Target stores have been added to the functionality of the application, this alternative payment option has definitely raised the status of the company.

I think this is a great example of pushing technology to the next level. Hopefully other retailers will jump on the bandwagon in this upcoming year. If you have an iPhone, I highly recommend driving to your nearest Target and taking a test drive of this new feature. To see a list of local Targets in the Boca Raton, Florida area, check out the site.

Expanded mortgage aid program should cut foreclosures

WASHINGTON – March 29, 2010 – The Obama administration’s revamped mortgage program may help more borrowers keep their homes, but economists say it could also delay foreclosures that can’t be prevented.

The program requires lenders to reduce mortgage payments for three to six months for unemployed homeowners. It also encourages mortgage servicers to consider reducing principal for borrowers who stay current on their loans.

In addition, some homeowners who owe more than their homes are worth may be able to refinance into loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration. The changes are designed to offer help to more borrowers than are getting aid under the existing program. But unemployed homeowners, for example, could still find themselves facing foreclosure if they remain unemployed when their forbearance period runs out.

“In six months, the lender will still have a non-performing loan and the borrower will still have a loan they can’t pay,” says Sylvia Alayon, vice president of operations for the Consumer Mortgage Audit Center, which does audits for lenders. “Foreclosures are still going to rise.”

Mark Zandi at Moody’s Economy.com estimates that the changes could spare between 1 million and 1.5 million homeowners from foreclosure. Other economists agree that the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) delays some foreclosures, but that’s not necessarily a bad policy.

“What policymakers are doing is telling lenders they have to look at every loan through the lens of HAMP, and all that does is buy us time,” say Ajay Rajadhyaksha, head of U.S. fixed income strategy at Barclays Capital. “It’s probably the right policy perspective ... the price drop is less.”


Copyright © 2010 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co. Inc., Stephanie Armour. All rights reserved.
Edited by Koolik Group Realty