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Market Update - 2011 Wrap Up

Central Florida Home Talk — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:56:26 GMT

Orlando Area Real Estate Market Began the Recovery in 2011

Here are the numbers for the Greater Orlando Market:

Sales Prices increased 9.5% over 2011
Inventory declined 1/3
Sales Remain steady
Inventory of homes down to 5.2 months

Florida Real Estate Looking up
Speaking in Orlando in December, Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors®, said many Florida markets are showing sharp drops in inventories of homes for sale – a sign that demand is picking up and prices are stabilizing. “That’s a major change from just a year ago,” he said. “Buyers have stepped back into the Florida market.” Adding to that sentiment, “Our state is in a mini-recovery,” said Florida Realtors® Chief Economist Dr. John Tuccillo at the state association’s 2012 Real Estate and Economic Forecast Conference in Orlando. “Sales are trending up, listing inventories are falling, the supply of lender-related properties has stabilized, and we are seeing multiple offers on homes in some local markets.”

National Mortgage Rates Dropped in 2011
Jan. 13, 2012 – Fixed mortgage rates fell once again to a record low, offering a great opportunity for those who can afford to buy or refinance homes. But due to tough lending standards, few are able to take advantage of the historic rates. Freddie Mac said Thursday the average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage fell to 3.89 percent.

Looking Ahead to 2012
There is still a large shadow inventory of foreclosed homes and delinquent homes that have not made it to the market. Banks have slowed down the release of these homes, which has helped to stabilize markets, but also continues to exert a downward pressure. Many expect the banks to release the foreclosed homes slowly. But there are plenty of investors wanting to absorb the foreclosed homes. So it is hoped that banks will begin releasing foreclosed properties again. The downward pressure will not go away until vacant and abandoned homes are put in responsible ownership.

Current lending standards are more stringent than ever. Making home buying very hard for first time homebuyers. This limits the sales volume, unnecessarily. It was very easy lending that lead to the economic downturn. But now the pedulum has swung too far the other way. Current lending practices are squeezing the flow of sales. Plus, high-end buyers are reluctant to pay the high premiums that banks are charging for larger mortgages, restricting the high end source of homebuyers as well.

The two buying demographics that have picked up in Central Florida are baby boomers and international buyers. Cash-rich individuals in these two groups are enjoying the affordable home prices. But the aging baby boomers are looking for homes where they can age in place with master bedrooms downstairs. Two story homes and townhomes are not as suitable for this demographic.

In summary, the banks and their policies are expected to exert the strongest influence on the residential real estate market in 2012, with overall expected slow, continual improvement in the housing sector. And all of the recent forecasts have a huge caveat that we do not know what will happen in Europe.

How's The Real Estate Market? Sept 2011

Central Florida Home Talk — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 03:14:30 GMT

FAQs
Everyone wonders "How low are prices", "Are homes selling", "Are prices going up?". Here are answers to some of the most often asked questions about the Central Florida real estate market.

Q: Are home prices still dropping? Are they moving up yet?

A: After holding at the bottom for almost a year, prices have started moving up. The median sale price in August 2011 was up 15% from one year earlier. But it is not so simple. There are short sales, bank owned, and regular/traditional sales. Well the downside is that the median sale price for regular sales is down 6.6% since last august.

Q: Are any homes selling?

A:Activity is quite brisk. I think people have realized that this is a great time to buy real estate. Even Ali Barshi on CNN is recommending buying. In the greater Orlando area over 2,000 homes sold in the month of August. While this number is down a little from August a year ago (8%) the supply of homes is significantly lower than the previous year, 39% lower.

Q: How is the supply vs demand?

A: A balanced market is considered to be 6 months of inventory. At the current rate of sales the inventory is only 4.29 months. So inventory is getting low, making this a seller's market. And with less than half of the sales being regular sales, there is even more buying demand for regular sales that are priced competitively.

Q: Are there any other forces at work on home prices besides supply and demand.

A: Definitely. Over half of the sales are distressed properties. These are often in poor condition and involve more risk, so they sell for a lower price. Also, appraisers are often so conservative in their appraisals that they limit the value that can be loaned in a mortgage, even when the buyer and seller are satisfied with the price.

Q: What surprises have you seen recently?

A: I was surprised that in Lake county the number of homes sold was up 17% over last year. I think the word is getting out about the quality of life, beautiful lakes, and good prices in Lake county.

Q: What is the median price of a home in the Orlando area these days?

A: For August 2011 it was $115,000. If you divide the market into segments you can see the downward pressure that distressed homes are putting on the market. The median price for bank-owned homes sold was only $81,750; for short sales it was $96,950; and for regular/traditional sales it was $155,000.

Q: What about my house, what is it worth?

A: I need to see your home and perform a comparitive market analysis (CMA) in order to determine its value. There are websites that just pop out a number, which may be close to the real value, but it may not be. Also you can look at what the property appraiser has appraised it at. But those do not necessarily reflect today's market on your particular neighborhood. I have found both of these sources to be varying in their degree of skew. In a CMA I actually study recent sales, and have often seen inside of the homes, then I make adjustments for differences from your home. But a good general guideline is that home prices today are approximating prices in 2003.

Hope this answers most of your questions about the Central Florida real estate market.

Sincerely,

Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant
Avalar Real Estate Services
407-267-3268
www.HomesCentralFL.com
Lorraine@HomesCentralFL.com

Top Golf Resorts in Central Florida

Central Florida Home Talk — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 03:35:00 GMT

"If there is a dominant theme this year,
it's that there's more excellent golf than ever."

                                                                                                                        -Conde Nast Traveler, April 2011

Central Florida scored big in the 2011 Conde Nast Traveler's Top 20 Florida Golf Resorts with 9 resorts making the prestigious list. The elite resorts were rated based on evaluations by readers.

Walt Disney World Resorts dominated the competition, capturing 5 spots. True to character, Disney demonstrated expertise in creativity and service. Each of these Disney courses earned a perfect score in either course design and access, or Golf Staff and Services:
#5 -   Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
#10 - Wilderness Lodge
#14 - Boardwalk Inn
#17 - Polynesian Resort
#18 - Beach Club Resort

The remaining top golf resorts combine magnificent golf courses with an array of resort services for the non-golfer.
#9 -     Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
            Greg Norman designed 18-hole course to appreciate and preserve the magnificent ecosystem.
#12 -   Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
            Has four Jack Nicklaus Signature Design courses.
#16 - JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes
           This is the same resort as above, Ritz-Carlton.
#20 - Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate
           Two 18-hole courses designed by Greg Norman, one international links style the other american style.

For assistance in purchasing a fine home, villa, or other property in golf mecca, AKA Central Florida, contact Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant and Realtor. You can be assured of confidentiality, integrity and expertise.

Enjoy the links,

Lorraine Burch
Lorraine@HomesCentralFL.com
www.HomesCentralFL.com

For a delicious Valentine's Dinner in Central Florida try Tamboras

Central Florida Home Talk — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 04:20:00 GMT

Are you Looking for a Delicious, Romantic Restaurant in Central Florida near Windermere, Florida

Para la cena de San Valentín deliciosa venido a Tamboras Resauran en Ocoee, Florida

We just had a dinner fabulosa at the Latin Fusion restaurant in Ocoee, just down the road from Windermere.

After dropping our child off for a party int Keene's Pointe in Windermere we headed up Maguire Rd into Ocoee. At the intersection of Old Winter Garden Rd we turned right and then a quick left into the parking lot of Tamburas Grill Cafe. As soon as we entered, the fabulous smells of latin fusion beckoned us.

The friendly waitress offfered complimentary wine tasting of Argentinian Malbec, California Pinot Noir, and Spanish Tempranillo. We opted for the Tempranillo wine from Spain. It was wonderful.

For appetizers we had the grilled cilantro shrimp, and house salad. The grilled shrimp were maravillosa and the mixed spring lettuce topped with chopped onion and tomato was fresh and tasty.

Our entres were Salmon with pineapple and guava sauce + yellow rice with pinto beans + sweeet fried plantains (maduros), and latin stir fry steak + yucca + maduros. They were both yummy with light sauces. We were too full to try the tempting deserts.

I highly recommend this restaurant for a delicious, romantic latin dinner.

Winner Of The 2009 Foodie Award
Critics Choice - Best Latin American Food by Orlando Sentinal
Visit their website at www.TamborasGrill.com

by Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant
www.HomesCentralFL.com

Windermere “Dream Home” is an Affordable Green Home with Great Classic Style

Central Florida Home Talk — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 02:19:00 GMT

Central Florida is becoming a haven for green living. The latest addition to our cache of green homes is “KB Home Green House: an Idea Home Created with Martha Stewart” at Lake Burden in Windermere, Florida. Unveiled in January 2011, this dream home is stylish, affordable, and livable. It brings the green revolution to the masses, with an interior size designed to fit the average homebuyer at 2,667 square feet. I can actually imagine myself living in this house. Previous green homes have been large, luxurious and expensive, and… out of reach for most homebuyers.

KB Homes and Martha Stewart demonstrate that a GREEN home can be stylish, affordable, and extremely livable at the new “green dream home” in Windermere.

Classic Style:
Martha Stewart has impeccable taste and style and this home reflects the elegance and class that is her signature style. You have to get past the mediocre street view of this home to see the beauty. The front door is rather hidden, which reminds me of a face with the eyes covered by long bangs. Like Martha Stewart you should look beyond the first impression.

Classic lines, painted baseboards, crown molding, wood paneling, and high level of trim evoke a level of sophistication reminiscent of the elegant homes of my childhood stomping grounds in New England. But, unlike the old homes of New England, this one has an open feel achieved with long site lines, and partial walls. I am seeing a high demand for homes with a formal dining room, an office, a bright and open great-room replacing the formal living. That is exactly what this home delivers, the look that today’s homebuyers are asking for.

The kitchen is a dream for the gourmet cook! There are cabinets galore for all those special cooking tools and serving platters. It’s perfect for making my homemade preserves, cooking a roast, and baking some homemade bread. I have a compost bucket in my kitchen, and it is always in the way, taking up precious room on the counter. KB/MS cut a hole in the countertop to make the stainless steel compost bucket recessed, hence a cleaner looking countertop. For fresh seasoning there is a raised herb garden outside the kitchen. This home is a good thing!

Since the kitchen is open to the great room, everyone can be in the kitchen (as they always are) and simultaneously enjoy the living room. The kitchen has a huge island (7 ½ x 4 ½ ft) and a separate large kitchen table. Just past the table is the beautiful living area with fireplace focalpoint. So from the kitchen you can enjoy views of the fireplace as well as the back yard.

The back wall of this greatroom opens to the large lanai, with another fireplace and 2 more sitting areas giving this home the entertaining space of much larger homes. I love the layout!

Affordable:
Priced at $380,000 this is well above the average selling price for a house this size, BUT the additional cost was used to take it the next level. It is a NET ZERO home! That means that it generates electricity, selling it back to the power utility. The income from the power generated is expected to equal the amount used, so that over a year the TOTAL POWER BILL SHOULD BE ZERO! Wow! Sorry about all the caps. This concept just gets me going. I love the idea of paying a big $0 for electricity. That works out to a savings of $250-$350 per month.

GREEN:
How did they get to NET ZERO?
-The envelope: cement block walls with ¾ in rigid insulation, sprayed foam on the roof deck insulates the attic, cool roof tile reflects a larger amount of solar energy
-19.5 SEER Energy efficient 2 ton A/C, energy recovery ventilator ventilator in attic
-solar hot water panels on roof
-photovoltaic solar cells on roof for production of electricity
-LED can and pendant lights
-light tunnel in laundry provides natural daylight
-control system for lighting, recepticles, and temperature, plus vacancy sensors shut of lighting in unoccupied rooms

Photovoltaic panels on roof produce electricity

What makes it green? There are so many factors. Most of us only think about energy efficiency, but there are also health and environmental aspects. Man-made Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are of concern for health reasons. So a primary goal of green homes is reduction of VOCs. Tile and wood flooring is much better, in this regard, than carpet. The home is tastefully painted with Martha Stewart paints with low VOCs.

Other Green:
-Reduced construction waste: pre-engineered trusses, floors, panelized wall systems reduce waste lumber at site. Waste from jobsite was recycled.
-On demand hot water recirculation system, low-flow faucets, dual-flush toilets, rainwater collection system augments irrigation, irrigation system measures soil moisture to determine actual need for water
-Computer in kitchen monitors water, electric, and gas usage and suggests techniques for lowering usage.

Other cool features include Electric plug for your electric car in the garage. A central vacuum system vented to outside removes 100% of dirt, dust mites, pollen, dander and other allergens from the house.

Electricity, water, and gas usage are monitored by a computer in the kitchen. A visual realtime monitoring system is an effective way to modify behavior. Most of the construction techniques that result in energy efficiency are undetectable to a homebuyer. The monitoring system helps to visualize the benefits of living in a green home.

Livable:
It seems like they thought of everything. An emergency generator provides power if a storm interrupts service from the utility provider. In Florida you typically don’t find mud-rooms. Yet if you garden or have kids, where do you put those dirty shoes and store backpacks? KB/MS combines a laundry with mudroom, just enough room for Florida. (We don’t have all those heavy coats and boots like y’all up north.) Custom closets help to put everything in its place. I feel at home in this house. Its organized, functional, comfortable, beautiful, green and budget-conscious. Is it time for tea?

Lorraine and Betty Burch relaxing on the lanai.

Lorraine Burch
Lakefront Homes Consultant
www.HomesCentralFL.com

Looking for a winter home in Florida

Central Florida Home Talk — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 05:27:00 GMT

You are not alone. Beginning in December, when the weather gets cold in most of the northern Hemisphere, many people turn to Florida with longing in their hearts. They call me. I consult with them, determinining their needs, and help them buy their dream winter home in Central Florida.

Why Central Florida?

OK. Why do you want to spend the winter in Florida? To get away from the snow and ice, so you can enjoy being active outside, instead of cooped up in the house for months, right? Even though the temperature can drop to around freezing for a few hours at night, cold spells usually linger for only a day or two before the temperature returns to a comfortable range. And I have never seen snow on the ground in Central Florida. Winter is a great time for playing golf on our beautiful golf courses . Other winter sports that are popular are tennis, walking, and bicycle riding . Swimming is not a big sport for winter residents since the water is pretty cold November – May. Come back in the summer for watersports.

Keenes Pointe Golf Course

You have health and nutrition needs right? There are numerous Hospitals and Specialist Doctors in the Greater Orlando Area. Orlando Magazine ranks top doctors every year. If you enjoy fresh fruit then look for strawberries, grapefruit, oranges, and tangerines ripening December to March. The grocery stores here are incredible with lots of specialty items and fantastic produce. Fresh Market and Whole Foods in the Dr. Phillips area are worth a visit, for the ultimate in grocery shopping.

Entertainment is, of course, our claim to fame. The big names in town are Walt Disney World , Universal Studios , and Sea World . But did you know that you can see traveling Broadway shows and more at Bob Carr Performing Arts Center in Orlando. The Magic, our professional basketball team is now competing in the new Arena, which is also utilized for major music events. Catch spring training baseball with the Atlanta Braves at Disney/ESPN Wide World of Sports. Many concerts are also held at The House of Blues at Disney’s Lake Buena Vista.

Let’s say you just want some peace and quiet with a nice view. It sounds like you want a lakefront home in Central Florida where you can put your feet up, read a book, sip a hot coffee or a nice cold beverage, and watch a great egret fish for his dinner as the sun sets, brushing peach and crimson across the sky, reflecting in the water like a Winslow Homer painting.

Clermont Chain of Lakes

What about shopping and restaurants? We got you covered. Winter Garden has Winter Garden Village at Fowler’s Grove Mall, Clermont has lots of shops and restaurants and a Movie Theater. The old section of Winter Garden has unique restaurants and a small theater with live entertainment, the Garden Theater. International Drive has the Outlet Mall. East of Windermere is the Mall at Millenia with “high fashion” and an IKEA store nearby! Sand Lake Road has Restaurant Row, with delectable food. If I tried to make a list of all of the shopping and dining available it would just go on and on.

    Oops! I forgot fishing. Lots of lakes, many are great for fishing. Just bring your boat. Oh and we have a Bass Pro Shops too!!!!

    The beach? It is only a little over an hour by car to get to east or west coast. East coast has the waves. West coast is calmer. Enjoy a day at the beach and then come home to Central Florida. When hurricanes come to visit, they are the strongest at impact on the coast. So homes at the beach suffer from the most destructive winds. When you are at the beach please notice that all of the hurricane evacuation routes take you to Central Florida. We have plenty of hotel rooms available for evacuation of people from the coast.

    Is there anything I missed? I am sure, there is so much that our area has to offer. Just let me know if there is anything specific that you are looking for in a place to buy a winter home in Florida. In the meantime, curl up by the fire, look out the window at the snow and ice, and dream of your future winter home in Central Florida. It will make you feel warmer!

Warm Wishes,

Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant
Because Home is More than Just a House
www.HomesCentralFL.com
www.LakefrontHomes-CentralFL.com

Keenes Pointe Market Report - Sept 2010

Central Florida Home Talk — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 03:03:00 GMT

Are you wondering how home sales are going in Keenes Pointe, Windermere, Florida?
The high security makes it challenging for those who are not currently living in the neighborhood, yet are interested in buying a home there. They can not drive by to see if they like the exterior and setting. If you are a neighbor and have seen the “for sale” signs, when a sign disappears you may wonder what has happened. Did it sell or did they give up trying?

Well, I can tell you that ....
Home sales in Keenes Pointe are definitely up this year over 2009!

To date 59 homes have sold this year.
In the month of August there were 8 sales with purchase prices ranging from $590,000 to $2.6 million.

Looking at the year so far, the price ranges with the most real buyers have been in the $300,000 - 599,000 price range (30 buyers) followed by the $1.00 – 1.499M price range (14 buyers).

If you are looking for more specific sales prices just give me a call at 407-267-3268 or toll free at 888-242-3939.

Thinking of selling your home in Keenes Pointe?
Then you will want to learn how my marketing plan can benefit you. I am thankful to be one of the top selling agents in the area* and I would be happy to help you sell or buy a home in Keenes Pointe.

Best wishes,

Lorraine Burch, www.CentralFLHomes.com
Because Home is More Than Just a House!
Lorraine@HomesCentralFL.com

*Lorraine Burch has sold more residential volume than 99.7% of all other agents with sales in Windermere and Winter Garden, FL for the last 9 months through Aug 2010, based on MLS data.

Market Update September 2010

Central Florida Home Talk — Sat, 25 Sep 2010 12:19:00 GMT

Home Sales Strong: Summer Frenzy becoming a Fall Harvest

To date this year home sales are up 31% over 2009! June 2010 saw a large spike in sales, prior to school starting. (The line graph below shows number of sales for the past year.) During the past year prices hovered with minimal fluctuation at some of the most affordable prices in 12 years. (See bars on graph below for prices).These low prices combine with low interest rates to make it a buyer’s market. The inventory remains in the 6-7 month range. Potential buyers have stepped out of the sidelines and into the game.

Can you sell your home in this market?

691 homeowners in the greater Orlando area sold their home in September (not short sale, not bank owned). That represents 28% of home sales. You can too.

No doubt, some buyers are looking to scoop up a rock bottom price from a foreclosure. But many buyers are getting fed up with the short sale waiting game and are now seeking move-in ready homes. This makes traditional sales attractive, as long as the price differential from distressed sales is not too great, and the home is in good condition.

For your home to sell in this market it needs to be in top condition and marketed by a real estate agent who provides superior quality and maximum exposure. With a September absorbtion rate of 14.7, meaning 14.7% of all the homes for sale actually sold in the month of September, pricing is extremely important. Price your home to sell, as one of the top 3 best priced homes out of 20 comparable homes.

Is Your Remodeling Project Overrated?

Central Florida Home Talk — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 03:09:00 GMT

Thinking of remodeling your home?
Are you wondering how to avoid overspending or doing the wrong home improvement projects?

As a local real estate agent in Central Florida, I keep an eye out for tips and trends in the market, including renovation projects. So I want to share with you the results of a recent report by MSN real estate identifying 8 overrated projects, why they are overrated, what people really want, along with my comments.

Whirlpool bath
    Why? People don’t really use them. They take too much water, are noisy and hard to keep hot.
    What they really want? Walk in shower.
    I see that walk-in showers are very popular. It seems like most people just don't  soak in a tub these days.

New Family Room Addition
    Why? Not cost effective, recoups only 65% of value.
    What they really want? A Change of usage in existing space, like converting dining room to an office.
    Square footage of homes had been increasing up until the plunge in home prices around 2007. So most newer homes
    have a large footprint. These homeowners can reallocate space wisely, to do more with what they already have.

Upscale Kitchens
    Why? Is a kitchen upgrade really worth $150,000 to you? Even if it only recoups 63% of the cost when you sell?
    What they really want? European kitchens are becoming more modern, streamlined, not so ornate.
    OK we are not Europe, we have a lot more space in this country and enjoy it. But I think that everyone
    is much more aware of the cost vs benefit, so a bit more frugality still can yield a magnificent kitchen.

Marble and Porous Counters
    Why? Scratches, burns, and stains easily.
    What they really want? Granite and man-made quartz are less fussy.
    This is really about a counter that will have a long lifespan without being baby-ed.

Deck Outside Master Bedroom
    Why? No one uses it.
    What they really want? Maybe a coffee maker in the bedroom would entice people out on that deck in the morning.
    Common living areas are more practical and get the most usage.

Elaborate Home Theater
    Why? A single purpose room is underutilized space.
    What they really want? A large Flat screen TV and incredible sound system in the family room.
    For resale, a more flexible room is more marketable.

Hot Tub
    Why? Upkeep and energy usage make it less attractive.
    What they really want? In Florida the spa that is part of the pool system replaces the stand alone hot tub.
    We really did not have many hot tubs with Florida homes. Maybe an ice tub would be more appropriate for our climate?
    I think the pool/spa takes the place of the whirlpool tub and the hot tub.

Overly Complicated Home Automation System
    Why? It can become obsolete, needing expensive maintenance, and hard to learn.
    What they really want? A simple automation system.
    Will the new home buyers ever be able to figure out your system. If not, it does not add value to the home.

These are just some ideas about overrated remodeling projects. Certainly if you are able to get enough enjoyment out of your project to say that it is worthwhile, than you have justified your expense. But when it comes to reselling your home, remember that no projects will recoup their full cost. So if you plan to sell your home in a few years, it is best to consider the resale value before proceeding.

If you have any questions for your Central Florida Realtor, send them to me.

Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant
Avalar Real Estate Services
www.HomesCentralFL.com
www.LakefrontHomes-CentralFL.com

Market Update July 2010

Central Florida Home Talk — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:24:00 GMT

Strong Homebuyer Demand in Central Florida

The news is out:
It is a great time to buy a home in Central Florida!

Homebuyers have jumped in to the real estate market.

Number of sales (Jan - June, 2010) up 38% over same time period last year.
Over past six months median home price rose each month (Jan 2010: median $102,000, June 2010: median $116,000)

Distressed sales, bank owned and short sales, are keeping prices low

2/3 of the sales were distressed sales
current inventory of 5.75 months is below balanced market, moving towards sellers market

As long as the distressed sales dominate the market home prices will remain low. Regular sales do sell at a higher price point than distressed homes. In June 2010 the median prices were:

$175,000 for a "normal" sale
$115,526 for a short sale
$77,500 for a bank owned

WINDERMERE, WINTER GARDEN, AND CLERMONT MARKET UPDATE
June 2010 market statistics

                                # Homes Sold        Median Square Footage            Median Sale Price                Median Sale Price/sf

Windermere                76                                        2,842                                    $286,480                                        113

Winter Garden            91                                        2,136                                    $170,000                                         75

Clermont                     84                                        2,070                                    $168,500                                         77

Brought to you by,
Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant
Avalar Real Estate Services
www.HomesCentralFL.com

Take Action Now to Stop the Oil Spill

Central Florida Home Talk — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 03:39:00 GMT

Dear Friends,

I ask you to please contact President Obama at http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact and your other government representatives to take action now. Honestly this is a huge disaster that the President needs to use executive power to address.

Another economic disaster is looming with this oil spill. Damaged marine systems and beaches could result in beach houses not being rented, mortgages not being paid, and more foreclosures. The economy including restaurants, fishermen, and coastal towns are at stake.

Please encourage President Obama to:

Put as many skimmers as possible in the Gulf to skim up the oil, temporarily removing regulations that limit the number and origin of skimmers.
Stop the use of dispersants that push the oil under the surface. The oil needs to be at the surface for skimmers to pull from the ocean.
Take charge of the disaster. Don't leave it in the hands of the polluter.
Put instruments at the source of oil to accurately measure the flow of oil.
Take outside input and develop a plan to stop the flow of oil
Ask businesses for solutions
Hire people needed to get the job done and put them to work

Thanks for your help.

Sincerely,

Lorraine Burch, REALTOR, GREEN
www.HomesCentralFL.com

I love my new Ford Fusion Hybrid

Central Florida Home Talk — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 03:28:00 GMT

My new Ford Fusion Hybrid car is so fun to drive!!!! I can barely see the gas gauge go down. I have not even filled it up yet. It just keeps going and going. And ... I love to watch the leaves on the digital dashboard grow as I drive, plus ...it handles real well.

I have joined the Hybrid Drivers Circle. Those who can monitor and adjust their driving habits to maximize their fuel efficiency. How long does it take to become a zen master hybrid driver? What is the highest average mpg the skilled fusion hybrid driver can expect to achieve? I have much to ponder.

GREEN REALTOR in her GREEN CAR
This is the perfect car for showing homes to home buyers. It is very safe to drive. Which is great because driving and talking about homes and neighborhoods, is more challenging than just driving by myself. My Ford Fusion Hybrid has a warning light for cars in my blind spot, and a camera to see behind the car for backing up. When someone wants to buy a home, they don't want to have to worry about the safety of the car that they are driving in. Also environmentally conscious buyers will appreciate not putting as much carbon into the atmosphere. It is almost like getting carbon credits while buying a home!

I mostly help people buy and sell homes in Winter Garden, Windermere, and Clermont. So my driving is predominantly in town, on minor roads. Today I have achieved an average of 32 mpg. The average keeps creeping up. It is supposed to get 41 mpg in the city. I would love that. 32 mpg is much better than my last Realtor car, a Toyota Highlander.

I feel better about driving all around town preparing homes for sale. The marketing of a home can mean a lot of short trips to pick up supplies and take photos. My carbon footprint for selling a home is also shrinking.

One drawback is that this car will not pull our boat. It is not recommended for hybrids. But since I am not the captain of our boat, that is not a big issue. So showing lakefront homes by car in my hybrid is no problem. By boat, we need to schedule with the captain anyway.

My next goal is showing homes by bicycle on the West Orange Bike Trail. Righ now it is too hot outside for bike riding. That will be my cooler weather mode of travel for eco-homebuyers.

Your GREEN REALTOR in Central Florida,

Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Specialist
www.HomesCentralFL.com

Copyright 2011 Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant, Avalar Real Estate Services.

Oil Spill in Gulf of Mexico

Central Florida Home Talk — Thu, 06 May 2010 17:13:00 GMT

I am deeply saddened by the ongoing oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. I think that all fishermen probably feel a sinking feeling in their stomach, like I do, when they think of the ongoing devastation.

And one of the worst aspects of this tragedy is that the oil continues to spill. The well is flowing oil directly into the ocean. If you are a praying person, please take a moment out of the day to pray for a successful and speedy capping of the well.

Latest Updates:
I received a message from Florida Senator LeMieux expressing his concern about the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. The Web site for citizens to receive up-to-date information on the event is http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/site/2931/ Check out the map with expected trajectory of the oil spill.

Report any suspected wildlife damage to 866-557-1401.

From the Ocean Conservancy:
"At least 5,000 barrels — that's 210,000 gallons — of oil are estimated to be leaking from BP's Deepwater Horizon oil platform every day, causing severe damage to wildlife and fish populations, and to the many communities that depend on healthy fisheries and tourism in the Gulf of Mexico. Both as the leader of an ocean conservation organization and as someone who grew up on the Gulf, I'm simply heartbroken."
Their website is www.oceanconservancy.org

Put a Lid on Oil Drilling off Atlantic Coastline!
The Obama administration has proposed opening vast expanses of water along the Atlantic coastline, the eastern Gulf of Mexico and the north coast of Alaska to drilling. Please contact your representatives in Washington and ask them to not allow drilling along the Atlantic Coastline. The atlantic coastline of the US is a treasure that is should not be compromised. Map of Proposed New Drilling Areas (NY Times)

Thanks for your help.

Copyright 2011 Lorraine Burch, Lakefront Homes Consultant, Avalar Real Estate Services.

Welcome to Central Florida Home Talk

Central Florida Home Talk — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 20:05:56 GMT

Welcome to Central Florida Home Talk by Lorraine Burch, dedicated to serving the needs of home buyers, home sellers, and residents of Windermere, Winter Garden, and Clermont, Florida.

This blog covers topics like: Central Florida neighborhoods, home keeping, Central Florida real estate updates, restaurant recommendations, golf courses, lakefront living, Florida real estate practices, Green properties, green remodeling, entertainment, waterfront issues, and local excursions.

As a local realtor in Central Florida, I serve the real estate needs of Windermere, Winter Garden, and Clermont, Florida. My office, Avalar Real Estate Services offers a complete range of real estate services. So don’t hesistate to ask questions. I am here to provide honest answers.

Sincerely,

Lorraine Burch

www.HomesCentralFL.com