When many were sleeping, the Space Shuttle Discovery lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center at 11:59PM last night.
The shuttle had tried 3 times earlier in the week to liftoff, but with some tropical storm remnants and a problem with a fuel valve caused delays. But, the 4th time was the charm.
This launch marcks one of the last seven missions that will fly, before the program retires in the next 2 years. There are hopes that the program could be extended until 2015.
The seven member crew headed to the International Space Station will be leaving an engineer up in space, with other members already at the Space Station. And they will be dropping off needed supplies.
It is a 2 week mission, where the 13 astronauts will work together unloading the Discovery's precious cargo.
We took these pictures in our driveway, where we typically view the launches. I was a bit disappointed that they didn't turn out better than they did. The night launches are hard to catch on film at the distance we are from the launch site.
Sandy Shores REALTOR®, Melbourne/Palm Bay FL Real Estate
Brevard County Real Estate & Investing
I also buy, sell, rent, own and manage Investment Property.
I take pictures as I enjoy sharing them with others. If you would like to use any of my photos, please ask. I am usually happy to accomodate the request, however I would like mention that I took the photo.
Sandy Shores REALTOR®, Melbourne/Palm Bay FL Real Estate
Brevard County Real Estate & Investing
I also buy, sell, rent, own and manage Investment Property.
Well, I opened my mailbox today, and there they were, the dreaded "Trim", Truth in Millage Notices of Proposed Property Taxes. No one really knew how the declining values in 2008 and 2009 were going to affect our taxes. We were all hoping for a decrease in taxes to fall in line with the decrease in property values, but for many that may not be the case, as this means less revenue than previous years to the taxing authorities.
On my primary residence, the market value dropped by over $30,000, although the assessed value increased by $100. So, my taxes are proposed to increase this year by $150 to $200. This is allowed based on a 1995 ruling stating that even if a property value does not increase or if it decreases, as long as the assessed value on a homesteaded (owner occupied) property is less than the market value, assessed value can be increased by a maximum of 3% per year, under the Florida Save our Homes program.
On non homesteaded properties, there has now been a 10% cap placed on assessed values. This means that owners of second homes, investment or rental properties will not see more than a 10% increase of their assessed value on their property each year. In my case, based on the proposed bills I have received on my rentals so far, my taxes have dropped anywhere from $90 to $350 per property. This is not surprising because my taxes at the peak of the market in 2005 nearly doubled on some of my rentals over a two year period of time (this was before the 10% cap was in place). So, taxes had no where to go but down.
For owner occupied properties, I have a pretty good idea that there are going to be many disgruntled homeowners that anticipated their taxes to drop with the drop in market values. However, they will instead see increases.
If you have any questions regarding your proposed tax bills contact the Brevard County Tax Collectors Office at:
321-255-4440 in Melbourne
321-952-4574 in Palm Bay
321-690-6880 in Viera
321-264-6700 in Titusville
Sandy Shores REALTOR®, Melbourne/Palm Bay FL Real Estate
Brevard County Real Estate & Investing
I also buy, sell, rent, own and manage Investment Property.
I take pictures as I enjoy sharing them with others. If you would like to use any of my photos, please ask. I am usually happy to accomodate the request, however I would like mention that I took the photo.
Sandy Shores REALTOR®, Melbourne/Palm Bay FL Real Estate
Brevard County Real Estate & Investing
I also buy, sell, rent, own and manage Investment Property.
When people sign a lease to rent a property of mine, I always remind them to get renter's insurance. I explain that my insurance policy covers the building itself, the applicances and liability issues that may arise. However, my policy does not cover their belongings in the event of fire, theft, and natural disasters.
Renters insurance typically covers your belongings in the event of:
fire or lightning strikes or smoke
wind or hail storms
explosion
theft
vandalism or theft
damage from vehicles or aircraft
riot or terrorism
falling objects
faulty plumbing, air conditioners, heating
These items may vary depending on what part of the country you are in.
Floods are usually not covered in a renters policy. This requires a separate flood policy. Also, in hurricane regions you may need an additional rider to cover wind damage.
Many tenants that move into a property tell me that they don't have enough things to lose should something happen. Well, not so fast, if you have a fire and you lost everything, how would you manage without insurance to help you cover the cost of buying everything from the start? So many people think that it will never happen to them. Well, unfortunately it does and it's too late then.
A renters policy with contents coverage and liability can cost anywhere from $180 a year to $250. Now that's cheap to replace everything that you have, should you have a catastrophe.
So before you say "no" to that renter's policy, talk to someone that has suffered a loss, and see what their feelings are on the subject. It's $20 a month for the peace of mind it can bring. I know two different families that lost everything they owned in two different fires, (they were not both my tenants) and neither had any insurance. They both have insurance now and always will.
NOTE: In checking on policies, be sure to talk to your insurance agent and find out whether they are quoting the policy with actual cash value or replacement coverage on your items. Actual cash value allows you the amount the item was worth on the day of the loss. The items value has been depreciated over time.
Replacement coverage pays what it costs to replace the item today. Find out which is best for you.
On every lease my tenants sign there are three different places in which I remind them to get renters insurance, and it is explained in detail. They are required to sign off in all 3 places.
This article is authored by
Sandy Shores REALTOR®, Melbourne/Palm Bay FL Real Estate
Brevard County Real Estate & Investing
I also buy, sell, rent, own and manage Investment Property.
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Full time professional serving your buying, selling & investing needs on Florida's Space Coast. I can assist with your short sale or relocation. I buy, sell, rent, own & manage investment properties.
Hi, I'm Sandy Shores...I am a Full Time REALTOR® since 1996. I have lived in the Lake Washington area of North Melbourne since 1975 and I love it here! I specialize in Residential, Investment Property and Relocations. I can help with your Short Sale, too. I work with buyers, sellers, and investors.
My broker has been in the business for nearly 50 years specializing in Residential, Commercial and Investment Property. He has been a wealth of knowledge for me. He owns and always has owned investment property of his own.
I began purchasing single family rental homes over 13 years ago and have continued to buy 1 to 2 properties per year since then. I believe that there is no better place to put your investment dollars than in real estate. But, remember, in real estate you don't get rich quick over night. You accumulate wealth over time, and real estate has it's ups and downs.
The real estate market is cyclical. We have seen the Brevard County, Florida Real Estate market come full circle. Currently, we are experiencing a market correction. Our property values went up by 180% in a 5 year period of time! Investors lost money in the Tech Stock Market Bubble. Many shifted to real estate. In 2005 homes were selling in Brevard for over inflated prices. Buyers were optimistic that the market would continue up. House flippers were buying and reselling for a quick profit. It couldn't last. New owners got their tax bills based on new assessed values.They didn't expect such a blow. We were then visited by a couple of hurricanes, sending insurance rates soaring. Then, owners interest only, 100% financed, negative amortization, adjustable rate mortgages readjusted upward ...that was the final straw. Owners had to sell. The market became saturated with houses for sale, thus it began on the decline. We are currently experiencing a market correction. Today, the buying opportunities are plentiful! Sellers that purchased 5 or more years ago, are still in a position to sell for more than they purchased their homes for. Interest rates are low and short sales and foreclosures are putting downward pressure on home prices. Many homes are becoming more affordable. These deals are being scooped up first. There are home buying opportunities available today.
The Buyer...
Buying a home is probably the largest purchase you will make in your lifetime! Having lived in Florida since 1968 and in Melbourne since 1975, I know the area and understand the market. The first step is in securing a reputable REALTOR®. I can guide you through the buying process. The next step is choosing a reputable local lender in the area in which you are buying. You should compare 3 written good faith estimates to see which lender can provide with the most affordable costs and best rate (without any hidden fees)! The lender can review financing programs to find which mortgage loan is best for you. Once you have a pre approval letter in hand, I am able to assist in showing you affordable, homes, in a good area, that suit both your wants and your needs.
It's important that you not overpay for the home. Are you buying it to live in it? How long will you live there? Will it be a second home? Is it an investment property? What are your investing goals? Will you be able to sell for the price you are paying today? Always consider resale, when buying. Upon choosing the right house, I will assist you in the maze of paperwork. I follow up on financing, inspections, survey, homeowners insurance, title work, repairs, etc, to be sure the contract successfully gets to closing.
The Seller...
My job is to professionally market your largest asset, your home, for sale. For some, this is an emotional experience. Your home holds your memories. I bought and sold my own home in 2001. I handled every aspect of the transaction, for both me as the seller, and the buyer of my house, as for me as the buyer and for the seller of the home I was buying. I understand the emotions tied to the transaction, having gone through it myself.
I understand the current market conditions, nationally, as well as localty. Is the market going up or down? This will affect pricing on your home. What are interest rates doing?
The house must be in "show" condition. If there are items that need attention, they must be addressed before it goes up for sale. It is important that we don't overprice the home for the current market.
The home must be properly advertised, accentuating it's positive features. With my marketing plan the goal is to create urgency to potential buyers. I will present various financing options to a new buyer to make the home affordable and easy to "get in".
My job is to net you the best possible price in the least amount of time, with the least amount of headaches and hassles. I must attract the REALTOR community and every approved buyer to your home! Once the contract has been negotiated and signed with a pre approved buyer, it is my responsibility to see to it that every aspect of it is completed to close the sale; from inspections, to title work, insurance and follow up. Then, I will stay in touch with you to keep you abreast of current market conditions.
Today, location and condition are important in getting a home sold, however, price is the most important factor in getting a home sold!
Sandy, Thank you so much for all of your help from start to finish, and making my dreams come true. You are a credit to your profession. You and your family are welcome at my home anytime!
- Cheers, Tony Ward, England
...Through perseverance, knowledge of the Real Estate Market and knowing our personal needs, Sandy was able to sell our property within thirty days. Her services and professionalism were a credit to the Real Estate profession. It was a joy to us because the property sold due to her knowledge of market conditions and her expertise. -Danny & Diane Sicilia, Melbourne
Sandy Shores is one of the finest real estate agents that I've had the pleasure to be associated with in my 45 years in the business. Sandy is far above the competition in knowledge and ability. And best of all, she has a true concern for the customers she comes in contact with. Sandy is 100% committed.
-Willard "Bill" Mallery, Palm Bay, Florida
Sandy's persistence and detailed market appreciation enabled out house to sell within one month of her hiring...Sandy's extreme job knowledge make difficult questions easily answered...Hiring Sandy Shores ensures you get the best Realtor for the job!
-C.E. Booton, Retired Major USAF 23 years, Navarre FL
Every time I hear of someone who is interested in buying a new home, I immediately begin singing my praises of you. You went far beyond the call of duty. I also rave about how you helped me, with a new business. work through more than a few major problems with the mortgage lender. I really thought it was not going to happen, but thanks to you any your hard work and diligence I am now sitting in my very own new home!
Sandy, you impressed me with your professionalism and even after the closing I could rely on you to help with some of the challenges of owning my first home. You really take the time to help, listen and suggest possible solutions. There are very few people who go out of their way for people the way you do. For professionalism you get an A+, for customer service, A+, and for knowledge in your field A+. If I ever sell this home or buy another, I want you as my Realtor. Thank you for everything! - Kathi Belger, Melbourne
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