CLEARWATER FLORIDA CONDO RENTALS

Florida Vacation Rentals

2008-07-14T16:27:00.000+05:30

Florida is a vacationer's paradise with its ample sunshine, miles of beaches, and abundance of attractions that can satisfy the appetite of every age group. No matter which Florida destination you have in mind for your next trip, you can soak in all the beauty and have easy access to all the best activities and amusements when you stay in a vacation rental that is right for you.

With its miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean, it is quite possible that you will be staying along the shores in a bustling and exciting city. Whether you choose the Emerald Coast in a city like Destin or the Atlantic Ocean in stunning West Palm Beach, you can find a home or condo rental that sits directly on the water and has some of the most breathtaking views imaginable. Relaxation awaits when you step onto your private deck or balcony and listen to the sound of the waves crashing ashore and slowly forget all the stress you have left behind.

Views of the water are one thing, but having the soft sand directly behind your accommodations is more convenient than you ever imagined. Heading out for a day at the beach is no longer filled with everyone rushing around, throwing stuff into a giant beach bag and then lugging the monstrosity towards the water as the kids run around you. All you need to do is step out the back door and therein lies the sand, waiting for you to sun on its soft body and build sandcastles near the shore. You can make as many trips as you need back into the house, meaning you no longer need to pack for an entire day and you won't miss out on any of the fun since your supplies are a shore stroll away.

As the most popular destination in Florida, you can find numerous home and condo rentals in the Orlando/Disney area. Enjoy the best in family accommodations in a spacious home filled to the brim with amenities such as a private pool and plenty of beach towels while staying only minutes from the Disney World theme parks. You can come home and relax under the dwindling Florida sun after a long day of enjoying rides and attractions while the kids burn off the last of their energy by swimming and jumping in and out of the pool.

If you are looking for a private retreat where you can escape to surroundings unlike any other, the Florida Keys have you covered. Enjoy a Key Largo vacation rental that is covered with towering trees and radiant flowers as you listen to the sweet song of the birds overhead and soak in the sweet smell of the nearby flora. This is a secret tropical haven for anyone who wants to get back to nature without missing out on any of the Keys fun since a private dock sits in the backyard, begging you to come forward and experience some of the best onshore fishing available.

For those visiting a Florida destination such as Miami Beach for the cultural allure, you can choose to stay slightly off the beaten path by opting for a rental that is not in the touristy parts but rather integrates you into the lively, cultural atmosphere. With rentals available in a variety of neighborhoods, you are sure to find one that makes it easy to enjoy the sights and sounds you are drawn to. Forget about being forced to stay in a hotel that is situated in an area that does not interest you since you can choose accommodations that allow you to experience the community in a manner tailored to your needs.

Florida vacation rentals are located throughout the Sunshine State so you can enjoy all the comforts and conveniences of home no matter which area draws you in with its attractions and amusements. Whether you will be spending the majority of your vacation on the beach or in the city, there is a centrally located vacation home or condo rental that will make it easy to experience everything you want to see and do. Begin your search for the perfect rental today and dive into a more exciting and relaxing Florida adventure than you could have ever imagined.

source:http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/florida-vacation-rentals-58553.html

Looking for a Florida Waterfront Home?

2008-04-04T10:13:00.000+05:30

When you’re looking for a waterfront home, what is it that you’re really looking for?

Some people, it seems, are looking for bragging rights. When they buy a waterfront home, it’s all about inviting family and friends over, about hosting dinner parties and encouraging their guests to check out the yard - including the dune walkover to the beach.

Others are looking for relaxation when they seek out a Florida waterfront home. For them, it’s about falling asleep the the sound of crashing waves. It’s about waking up with a cup of coffee and the newspaper while sitting on the balcony and watching the sun rise over the Atlantic.

Still others are looking for a great family home, a place where they will be able to learn about one another, a chance to spend time talking, laughing and enjoying quality family time.

So, which is it for you? Are you looking for a waterfront home that will give you a place with the kids, a spot to relax, bragging rights or a combination of all three?

Resource: www.seasideviews.com

Florida Keys House Boat Rentalsict

2008-03-05T11:56:00.000+05:30

Houseboat vacations are best enjoyed with the family. Vacationing is simply the best way to relax and get together in a paradise such as the Florida Keys. You can take charge of your own houseboat and travel around the gorgeous islands at an affordable price.

Houseboats are an excellent choice for those who love the outdoors like campers and boaters. They are like RVs able to float on water, and what is nice about them is that you can decide where you want to secure your boat. You can have a barbeque every day, or if you prefer to go and out to a restaurant, smaller boats are available for easy access to other local dining places.

In the Keys, on a houseboat you can enjoy fishing, swimming and diving from the deck. If you don’t feel like exploring, well you can just relax, sit back, and enjoy the Florida Keys sun. Houseboats have a capacity for 6 to 10 people, so there is no need to worry if you have a big group sharing in the fun. Kids can also enjoy sleeping underneath a blanket of stars.

Experienced instructors will assist and guide you before you set out on the waters. They will teach you the basic in operating your boat like how to start and stop, how to steer and also when and how to anchor. By the time they are finish, you will feel confident and assured that you are will be able to set out on your own without any hassle.

Maps as well as marked buoys are also handed out. So you can easily chart your way. You will also find boat safety gear mandated by the U.S. Coast Guard in every boat.

There is no other vacation place that will provide you with a greater experience. You will see nature in a whole new light. You will be able to see wild life supplying aquatic vegetation, or a dolphin slowly swimming through the clear waters of the Florida Keys.

House Boat Rentals provides detailed information on House Boat Rentals, Lake Powell House Boat Rentals, Lake Cumberland House Boat Rentals, Florida Keys House Boat Rentals and more. House Boat Rentals is affiliated with Hilton Head Condo Rentals.

resource:ezine articles.com

New heights of luxury in Century City

2008-02-09T16:39:00.000+05:30

A garden-ringed condo tower is proposed for one of the Westside's most coveted parcels.

Plans for a 45-story, wisp-thin tower of ultra-luxury condominiums between Beverly Hills High School and the Los Angeles Country Club are set to be unveiled today. Developers say it would be one of the most expensive residential buildings in the West.

The $400-million tower along one of the area's toniest corridors would be the first building in California designed by renowned Paris architect Jean Nouvel, known for his daring designs. He is proposing a narrow glass structure with sweeping views through the building and extensive greenery ringing each floor.

The developer predicts the project will attract European and Asian globe-trotters as well as local empty-nesters ready to move from sprawling Westside mansions to roomy condominiums complete with concierge services, a private club, first-run movie screenings and valet parking.

Even at a time of economic uncertainty -- when Southern California employers are trimming payrolls, stock prices are falling and home values are dropping -- the demand for luxury housing continues nearly unabated in the Westside. And with it has come more traffic and growing homeowner resentment about construction and congestion.

Prices have not been set for the proposed condos at 10000 Santa Monica Blvd. But units in the ultra-luxury Century tower being built in nearby Century City are being offered at a range of $3.2 million to $30 million, and the Nouvel condos are expected to be even more pricey.

Two top-drawer projects are also being planned around the intersection of Santa Monica and Wilshire boulevards in Beverly Hills. Last year, British developers paid $500 million for the former Robinson-May department store at the site, where a 252-unit condo and retail complex designed by prominent architect Richard Meier has been proposed.

"How much high-end product can the market bear in such a close proximity?" asked real estate broker Gary Weiss of Madison Partners, who called the planned Nouvel building "extraordinarily ambitious."

Nouvel's developer, SunCal Cos., said it was undeterred by slumping home sales in Southern California and hoped to break ground in 2009. The company said it expected to start seeking formal city approvals next week.

"What we are really doing is addressing an underserved component of the market," said Frank Faye, chief operating officer of SunCal. "We are confident we would be able to sell these units today and we will be able to sell them quite rapidly once they're made available."

Considered one of the most desirable locations for development in the country, the vacant lot was the object of a high-profile bidding war in 2006 when Irvine home builder SunCal finally topped New York developer Donald Trump with a $110.2-million offer for just 2.4 acres.

Ever since, the site has been eyed with curiosity and suspicion in an area where homeowners have already expressed alarm about the rapid pace of development. "The truth is that people are happy in their neighborhood and they don't want to see it change," said Kevin Hughes, president of the Cheviot Hills Homeowners' Assn.

Plans call for 177 units, with two to six condominiums per floor. Elevators would serve every condo directly so there would be no corridors between units. "Each residence is designed as a home in the sky surrounded by an abundance of plants and flowers but with no visual limits to the spectacular views of the city, mountains and ocean," Nouvel said.

In Los Angeles, "we have to build buildings especially for this climate," he said. "From the boulevard, it will look like a vertical garden."

City Councilman Jack Weiss, who represents Century City, said he supported Nouvel's concept. "We have never had someone of this caliber designing something residential on the Westside," he said.

"My public-policy goal has been to make Century City a world-class residential destination," Weiss said. "That creates benefits because people can live near where they work and traffic is generated at off-peak hours."

But some neighborhood residents are skeptical about how beneficial ultra-luxury housing would be.

"To make Century City truly livable you need housing for people who work there who aren't presidents of their companies," said Barbara Broide, president of the Westwood South of Santa Monica Boulevard Homeowners Assn. "That's what we need to take car trips off the street."

The mayor of Beverly Hills echoes Broide's concern about how the building might add to congestion. "It will not be easy to digest for Beverly Hills people who are already getting a lot of traffic that is not Beverly Hills traffic."

Faye, the developer, however, said that the residential tower would generate less traffic than the office building that used to occupy the site. The previous owner demolished the building that once housed several tenants, including Jimmy's restaurant.

Faye also said he thought the Nouvel building would be set apart from rivals both in price and amenities.

But competition lurks with many other pricey units coming to market.

Westfield, the owner of Century City's shopping center, plans to build 262 upscale condos or apartments to complement its recent $170-million makeover of the mall.

And Century City landlord JMB Realty Corp. plans to build 483 units on Constellation Boulevard.

Owners of the Beverly Hilton Hotel also plan to add upmarket condos as part of a major upgrade and expansion on the property. Other high-end condos overlooking the Los Angeles Country Club and at the Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills are being built.

The Nouvel design of SunCal's planned tower is intentionally ambitious, Faye said. "This is an exciting opportunity," he said. "The worst thing we could do is under-deliver."

Source : http://www.latimes.com/

Condos eyed for Brentwood Bay Lodge

2008-02-06T15:43:00.000+05:30

Brentwood Bay Lodge wants to add six condominiums to its luxury hotel, following a trend that is becoming the norm in new hotels.

The plan to build the six units goes to public hearing at Central Saanich council chambers on Wednesday.

Owner Dan Behune sees it as a way to have larger units available at the five-star hotel, and provide buyers with a chance at a waterfront vacation home.

"It's a win-win situation for people looking for vacation properties and the hotel, so we can have larger, more luxurious units," Behune said.

The development would need a rezoning to change the property at 7164 Brentwood Dr. to a special new hotel/residential zone on the 1,250-square-metre lot with its 23 metres of waterfront.

Behune and architect Ron Lea envision a three-storey, six-unit residential villa, next door to the Brentwood Bay Lodge but separate from it. It would have two units on each floor of about 1,825 square feet each, with two bedrooms and a den.

The architectural style, colours, materials and finishes would match those on the lodge, including resawn cedar and heavy fir beams.

The public boardwalk along the foreshore by the lodge would also extend in front of the new building.

Behune also wants to extend the existing dock to create four larger boat slips to accommodate larger yachts coming into the inlet.

Strata hotel units allow the owners to use the property when they want, and to put it into the general hotel pool for rental when they're not there.

"We see people buying these units as being from Alberta or Ontario, looking at this as their second or third home," Behune said.

Prices of the units haven't been determined yet, he said, although they would be west-facing waterfront, which isn't likely to be inexpensive.

Studies show that people tend to use their vacation homes an average of eight weeks a year. It makes good sense to buy a place that can provide some income by being in a hotel pool, Behune said. And when owners are there, they have access to all the hotel amenities and services.

Kevin Walker, owner of the Oak Bay Beach Hotel site, said construction costs are so high for full-service hotels that more and more are moving toward a mixed model of hotel rooms, residential or strata hotel units.

Plans for the Oak Bay Beach Hotel include 20 strata units, three of which have been sold, Walker said

Construction work on the Beach Drive site has not started yet.

Walker said he'll have an announcement Feb. 12 on the "go-forward plan" for the development.

Asked about speculation that he has partnered up with a major hotelier, Walker said, "I can't comment on that now, but there will be clarity on Feb. 12."

Source : http://www.canada.com/

Fire at a Clearwater condo

2008-02-06T15:42:00.000+05:30

One firefighter suffered minor injuries during a fire at the Imperial Cove Condos on Monday morning.

Investigators say the call came in at about 8:15 a.m. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy flames coming from a condo unit, but they were able to bring it under control within 15 minutes.

Two neighboring units also sustained smoke and water damage. A firefighter was transported to the hospital for minor injuries.

A lesson in reading the fine print

2008-01-28T17:11:00.000+05:30

A contract error may keep condo buyers from moving into the Water's Edge. The condo towers are one of the Bay Area's most luxurious projects. Owners are in line for a full refund.

Federal law requires HUD to be provided with a property report detailing the project. Lawyers for the project felt that the language in the original contract did not have enough clarity. 109 of the 153 units have been sold since going on sale in 2005. Owners can still move in approximately eight months from now at a discount or get paid to walk away.

The error came as a shock to city officials who were hoping that the project would help revitalize downtown Clearwater.

There are three condo projects set to open in downtown Clearwater in 2008 and 2009.
"Surprise obviously that the law firm had made a mistake on the contract and then obviously some dismay but um... the more that I've thought about it and talked to other individuals I think that maybe we'll squeeze out some of the speculators and hopefully get permanent residents faster than we normally would," said Frank Hibbard the mayor of Clearwater.

Source : http://www.tampabays10.com/

Florida's Existing Home Sales Slower in December 2007

2008-01-28T17:10:00.000+05:30

Sales of existing homes and
condominiums in Florida continued to reflect the impact of a sluggish
economy and mortgage financing issues in December. Statewide, sales of
existing single-family homes totaled 8,828 last month while 12,758 homes
sold in December 2006 for a decrease of 31 percent in the year-to-year
comparison, according to the Florida Association of Realtors(R) (FAR).

But some industry analysts see signs that the housing market may be
starting to turn around, with increasing stability in the mortgage sector.
National Association of Realtors(R) Senior Economist Lawrence Yun notes in
NAR's latest market outlook that consumers appear to be waiting for
"additional signs of market stabilization. There are more people with
financial capacity now than in 2005, but many are trying to market-time
their purchase" - which makes the exact timing of the housing recovery more
uncertain, he says. Still, Yun says that 2007 should be the fifth highest
year on record for existing-home sales.

Florida's median sales price for existing single-family homes last
month was $208,900; a year ago, it was $239,900 for a 13 percent decrease.
The median is the midpoint; half the homes sold for more, half for less. In
December 2002, the statewide median sales price for single-family homes was
$145,300, for an increase of 43.8 percent over the five-year-period,
according to FAR records.

The national median sales price for existing single-family homes in
November 2007 was $208,700, down 3.7 percent from a year ago, according to
NAR. In California, the statewide median resales price was $488,640 in
November; in Massachusetts, it was $330,000; in Maryland, it was $293,421;
and in New York, it was $215,000.

Sales of existing condominiums in Florida also decreased last month,
with a total of 2,693 condos sold statewide compared to 3,912 in December
2006 for a 31 percent decline, according to FAR. The statewide median sales
price for condos last month was $187,100, down 8 percent from December
2006's condo median price of $202,500. NAR reported the national median
existing condo price was $221,100 in November 2007.

Last month, interest rates for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged
6.10 percent, down from the average rate of 6.14 percent in December 2006,
according to Freddie Mac. FAR's sales figures reflect closings, which
typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written.

Among the state's larger markets, the West Palm Beach-Boca Raton
Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) reported 467 existing homes sold last
month compared to 607 homes sold a year ago for a 23 percent decrease. The
market's median sales price for homes was $337,900; it was $368,200 in
December 2006 for an 8 percent decrease. A total of 419 existing condos
changed hands in the MSA last month, down 18 percent from the 508 condos
sold the previous year. The existing condo median sales price in December
was $161,400; a year ago, it was $215,700 for a 25 percent decrease.

"Our area is a great place to live, with beautiful beaches, diverse
businesses and numerous cultural and leisure activities," says John Mike,
president of the Realtors Association of the Palm Beaches and a Realtor
associate with Prudential Florida WCI Realty. "In December, people are
ready to buy because they want to be able to take advantage of Florida's
homestead exemption for the year. As prices have adjusted to more realistic
levels from the highs at the peak of the boom years, it's opened up housing
opportunities for many more people. And with plentiful inventory, it means
that buyers are able to find exactly what they're looking for from a wide
range of options."

Among the state's smaller markets, the Gainesville MSA reported a total
of 179 homes sold in December compared to 237 homes a year ago for a 24
percent decrease. The existing home median sales price was $188,300; a year
ago, it was $194,200 for a 3 percent decrease. A total of 48 existing
condos sold in the MSA last month compared to 66 condos the previous
December for a 27 percent decrease. The market's existing condo median
price was $135,000; a year ago, it was $161,500 for a decrease of 16
percent.

J. Parrish, president of the Gainesville Alachua County Association of
Realtors and president of Coldwell Banker M.M. Parrish, Realtors, notes the
area's diverse business and employment opportunities continue to attract
new residents. "At the height of the real estate boom years, two to two and
a half years ago, the Gainesville area posted more realistic, sustainable
sales and price gain figures," he says. "Our colleges, the university
system, extensive healthcare industry and other governmental entities
really drive the local economy and provide a strong underlying economic
foundation."

Two charts showing statistics for Florida and its 20 MSAs are attached.
One chart compares the volume of existing, single-family home sales and
median sales prices price in December 2007 to December 2006 based on
Realtor transactions; the other compares the volume of existing,
condominium sales and median sales price December 2007 to December 2006
based on Realtor transactions.

The Florida Association of Realtors(R), the voice for real estate in
Florida, provides programs, services, continuing education, research and
legislative representation to its 150,000 members in 67
boards/associations.

Source : http://www.prnewswire.com/

Clearwater Beach Recreation Center may get makeover

2008-01-22T16:51:00.000+05:30

On Jan. 17, the City Council is expected to award a $600,000 contract to Oakhurst Construction of Seminole for the renovation of the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center, including the addition of 1,200 square feet of library space.

If everything goes as planned, the library will open in late April and the entire project will be finished by August.

“We’re going to have to phase it in,” Kevin Dunbar, the city’s director of parks and recreation, told the City Council at its Jan. 14 work session. “Our number one priority is to get the library in. The other things in the rec center will be secondary.”

Since the municipal auditorium building that housed it was torn down several years ago, the beach library has been in search of a permanent home. Suggestions have ranged from combining it with a firehouse to closing it. Until recently, it has occupied rented quarters in Pelican Walk.

“The Beach Library has moved out of Pelican Walk and is currently operating out of a temporary trailer in the parking lot west of the recreation center,” a staff memo to the council explained. “This is a priority project and staff is attempting to have the renovations completed as soon as possible in order to move the library from its temporary location to the recreation center no later than May 2008.”

The project was put out for bids and Oakhurst Construction was the lowest of the five qualified bidders. In addition to the construction of the new library area, whole sections of the existing structure will be gutted and refurbished, the fitness room will be upgraded and the kitchen and storage areas will be expanded.

“Twelve hundred square feet of library space will be added but the entire building, which is about 9,000 square feet, is going through various stages of renovation,” Dunbar said.

An additional $64,000 is expected to be allocated to upgrade the glazing in all the windows to bring them up to code and flood-proof them, and add additional windows to the multi-purpose room to take advantage of its waterfront views. Two features that should have been included in the original bid, but weren’t, were millwork for a front counter area in the library, and a separate air conditioning system for the library to protect its books from mildew.

Councilman George Cretekos said that he was told in October that a street sign, directing people to the combined recreation and library, would be ready in five weeks, but it’s still not up. Dunbar promised to look into the matter.

Mayor Frank Hibbard said that he hopes that library patrons will discover the beauty of the refurbished recreation center and rent it for weddings or other events.

“It’s about serving the beach and continuing to have a library out there,” said Hibbard.

Source : http://www.tbnweekly.com/

Name gives motel a Florida feel

2008-01-18T15:53:00.000+05:30

The city of Clearwater's first motel is celebrating the beginning of its 61st year.

Tucked between the Belleview Biltmore and Morton Plant Hospital on South Fort Harrison Avenue, Gangelhoff’s Summerside Inn, formerly known as “Gangelhoff’s Delux Motel,” is one of the few family-owned establishments in the city.

It is an old-time Florida motel with shuffleboard, pool and clean, well-kept rooms and it offers visitors a rich mix of friendly accommodations and local history.

The story goes that Fred and Hilda Gangelhoff left the bitter Minnesota cold in 1947 for sunny Clearwater. Daughter Lil Howard remembers the beginning.

“My parents had traveled in the west and they had seen new types of hotels for motorists called ‘motels.’ They noticed that there were no motels in Clearwater, just cottage courts. So they bought this property, moved out all the cottage courts that were here and moved the family – six children – down here.”

Howard said that the family spent their summers at their family owned resort in Minnesota, but the six young Gangelhoffs spent fall and winters at the Clearwater motel working around the property and attending South Ward Elementary and Clearwater High Schools.

“I’ve got lots of happy memories,” she says. “We had people coming from all over the country year after year. Once one of the golf pros from the Belleview Biltmore who was waiting for the hotel to open for the season was staying here. He lost his big diamond ring. Everyone looked all over for it, but I was the one who found it. He was very grateful. It was a big thing in my life,” she said.

Yvonne Silcox, a Gangelhoff granddaughter and her husband Joseph, are the new owners. She said they changed the name to give the old motel a new, fresh and modern sound.

“‘Summerside Inn’ sounds warm, friendly and Florida like,” she said.

Silcox notes that regulars still come every year to take advantage of the location, short distance to the beach, restaurants and shopping.

“Our typical customers are families and people from about 40 to 70 who are snow birds, visiting in the area or have someone at Morton Plant,” she said.

There are also new touches at Gangelhoff’s Summerside Inn. The owners have renovated the rooms and now have high speed Internet and cable. Other plans include a grill area around the pool and possibly a Jacuzzi. They are also considering the feasibility of shuttle service to the airport and to the hospital.

Silcox said that her children are following in the family tradition.

“We’re into the third generation. Just like my generation and their grandmother, our kids help out at the motel and attend local schools.”

Source : http://www.tbnweekly.com/

Strong Buyer’s Market Continues in Florida

2008-01-14T17:14:00.000+05:30

A recent report by the Florida Association of Realtors suggests that for the month of November 2007, Orlando saw a 35% decline in sales of single-family homes compared with November 2006, while condo sales plumeted by a massive 55%. Orlando condo sales were a meagre 125, down from 276 sold in November 2006 (already a bad year!). Condo VultureMedian condo prices fell 18% from $172 to $140.5

Statewide, sales dropped by 29% with a median sales price of $186,700, a drop of 9% from $204,500 in November 2006.

All of which suggests that the strong Florida buyer’s market is likely to continue at least into the first half of 2008. Something I’m noticing for 2008 that has the potential to drastically reduce inventory, is the trend for desperate developers to sell off their entire inventory at 50-60c on the $$ to investors who convert the conversions back to rental - and hold. Our business in this area grows daily and I expect it to have a serious impact on the number of condos available for sale by the end of 2008 - which will start to drive prices up again. 2008 could go down as the year of the Great Condo Sell-off. If you’ve been waiting around for rock bottom pricing - I’d start moving, because when the vulture-investors start grabbing condos by the bucket load, you know that’s exactly where we are.

Source : http://www.condometropolis.com/

Boca's Eden condo project may become homes for seniors

2008-01-07T14:55:00.000+05:30

Boca Raton - The much-troubled and partly built Boca Raton Eden condo project, once billed as a luxury development, may turn into homes for seniors and an assisted living facility.

Ceebraid-Signal Corp. teamed with Atlanta-based Parc Senior Communities to finish the project that's years behind schedule and has faced financial difficulties. They submitted a plan to City Hall on Dec. 21 showing that they want to change the four-building, 248-unit condo project into 193 senior residences and 82 assisted living units.

That has the residents who moved into the project's one finished building fuming.

"This is not what I spent a half-million dollars for," said Seid Bernard, who attended a city meeting Wednesday to review the developer's latest plans.

Adam Schlesinger, vice president of Ceebraid in West Palm Beach, declined to comment Wednesday.

Angry residents have turned to City Hall for help even though the city can't control what the builders do with the project as long as they follow city rules.

For the developers to build the assisted living facility, they need city approval for a rule change since it's not allowed under current zoning regulations. That may give the city some leverage in wringing added concessions from the developers.

In September, skeptical City Council members granted a two-year extension on Eden's building permits. They agreed to a third extension as long as the developers stick to a stringent schedule. So far Ceebraid and Parc have complied with the city's requests.

Bernard lives in the five-story building that stands next to three hulking, gray building skeletons that the developers boarded up on city orders. He said he would move if Ceebraid paid him today's market price for a downtown Boca Raton condo. The developers have offered those who closed on their units what they paid plus some money for closing costs.

Source : http://www.ccfj.net/

Condo crash burns big, sophisticated investor, too

2008-01-01T16:56:00.000+05:30

It's not just schoolteachers, bartenders and other real estate amateurs who got burned by the condo crash. Some big, seemingly sophisticated investors are taking hits, too.

Condo converter Tarragon Corp. (Nasdaq: TARR) of New York just unloaded the 311-unit Floresta Apartments at 400 Via Royale in Jupiter for a hefty 28 percent loss.

Tarragon bought the complex for $83.95 million in February 2006, just after the condo boom ended. It sold the apartments this month for $60.25 million, according to property records.

The buyer was TGM Associates, which paid Tarragon $71 million for an apartment complex in Abacoa in October.

Tarragon has been in the midst of a nationwide fire sale. It said last month that it expected to write off $350 million as a result of the falling values of its properties.

Shares in Tarragon have plunged from more than $20 in early 2006 to less than $2 now.

***

More evidence of a slowing commercial real estate market: An $80 million deal for Vista Business Park west of West Palm Beach has fallen through.

When owner Steve McCraney contacted institutional investors this summer about selling the 500,000-square-foot industrial complex and two smaller warehouse parks, the offering was expected to be a home run that would net $100 million, thanks to a white-hot industrial market. What a difference a few months make.

"We're back to a real market," McCraney said last week.

The winning bidder's financing recently fell through, and McCraney said he's talking to other bidders. Belvedere Business Park in Palm Beach County and Treasure Coast Commerce Center in Martin County no longer are part of the package.

McCraney described himself as "an ambivalent seller." After all, he bought the land cheap and enjoys high occupancy rates.

"If it doesn't sell, we're great with that," he said.

But with residential real estate faltering, brokers say potential bidders are taking a harder look at McCraney's tenants and realizing that many of their fortunes are tied to the housing market.

The housing slump "is affecting everybody," said Randall Greene of Palm Beach Gardens-based Catalfumo Construction and Development. "There's even a spillover into the Class A office market."

***

When German firm Biotest Pharmaceuticals paid $185 million for Nabi Biopharmaceuticals on Dec. 4, it also bought Nabi's real estate at Arvida Park of Commerce in Boca Raton.

Biotest paid Nabi $30.3 million for 23 acres at 5800 and 5900 Park of Commerce Blvd., according to property records. That price was part of the $185 million deal, Nabi told the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

***

Has Callery-Judge Grove's 3,500 acres in the middle of Palm Beach County escaped the plunge in property values? One appraiser thinks so.

Gyrodyne Co. of America (Nasdaq: GYRO), the St. James, N.Y., company that owns 10.93 percent of Callery-Judge Grove, said this month that an appraiser it hired valued the land at $205 million as of June 2007.

That's down only 0.36 percent from a 2006 estimate by the same company, Pinal Appraisal Services, Gyrodyne said.

Source : http://www.palmbeachpost.com/

Clearwater Beach to St. Petersburg Beach -- Homes and Condos for Sale

2007-12-24T16:32:00.000+05:30

Just west of Tampa in Pinellas County you will find Florida's West Coast Barrier Islands. These islands have some of the most electric communities to be found among beach communities world-wide. They include Clearwater Beach, Island Estates, Sand Key, Belleair Beach, Belleair Shores, Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores, Redington Shores, North Redington Beach, Madeira Beach, Treasure Island and St. Pete Beach.

These areas are blessed with sandy beaches and natural unspoiled landscapes with clear, sparkling Gulf waters, a subtropical climate, and an abundance of glorious Florida sunshine -- 365 days a year!

Pinellas County's barrier islands are accessed via causeways and bridges and each community has its own unique flavor. Because of the mix of many different cultures, foods, music, and entertainment, life on these islands varies from one island to the next. You can find everything from a relaxed escape from the usual rat race of everyday life, to the exhilarating hip-grinding beats of the live music being played at the clubs.

The island of Sand Key is just one of the many different communities you will find here. Sand Key is mostly a residential location of townhouses, homes, and luxury high rise condominiums. This island community does offer shopping and restaurants as well, housing two major hotels on its north end. This is a place to slow down and take the time to truly enjoy the simpler things in life. For the more adventurous, there is the Sand Key County Park, and nearby Clearwater Sailing center that provides for various recreational activities.

Clearwater Beach is another of Florida's Barrier Islands. Clearwater Beach is 4 miles of pristine sandy beach, and supplies visitors and residents with plenty of water and beach activities including parasailing, fishing, swimming, jet-skiing and volleyball to name just a few. Clearwater's infamous "Pier 60" has music, arts and crafts, and a daily celebration of the spectacular sunsets viewed from the pier. This community is alive with activity. They have hotels, shopping, and fine dining. Waterfront homes and condominiums are what residents can find for quality housing. A trolley is used to transport people between Clearwater beach and the mainland and also for trips to nearby Sand Key. You will find plenty of venues providing live music and you are only a short-trolley trip away from the city of Clearwater's many music and dance nightclubs.

Madeira Beach is yet another island community just off Florida's western coast. As a direct-entry point to the Gulf, you will find daily fishing, and cruising charters. This community has plenty of waterfront shops and fine dining restaurants. Residents are found living in various dwellings such as condos, apartments, and luxurious waterfront single-family homes.

Belleair Shores is a private community island with million-dollar waterfront homes. Access to this areas beach is restricted to use by residents only. There are no public access beaches in Belleair Shores. This is a community for those who desire to live in an area removed from the common everyday life found in other communities.

So if you're looking to relocate to the sunny Pinellas West Coast of Florida, and would like to move away from ordinary living, consider contacting a Tampa Bay area real estate agent to discuss the different island communities. Your real estate agent can arrange for you to tour the different Barrier Islands that populate Pinellas County Florida's West Coast, so that you can discover the community that offers the lifestyle and housing options that are right for you. Your real estate representative can assist you in finding the financing to buy your new property as well. These friendly, knowledgeable real estate agents are also a good resource for all of the information that you will need in order to make your transition to becoming a Florida resident a smooth as possible.

Source : http://ezinearticles.com/

Clearwater Offers a Beach for Every Mood

2007-12-19T17:34:00.000+05:30

Clearwater, Florida is home to sun-kissed beaches and sparkling blue waters that make up some of America’s best rated beaches. Surf shops, ice cream parlors, outdoor beach bars and more can be found along the beautiful shores of Clearwater. From energetic and activity filled to secluded and romantic there is a beach for you everyone in Clearwater.

With its wide, white sand shores and clear blue waters, Clearwater Beach has been consistently ranked as the best city beach on the Gulf by Conde Nast Travler and the Number 1 beach in the Gulf region by “Dr. Beach*.” Gulf Boulevard runs along the shoreline and separates Clearwater Beach from a wide variety of restaurants, shops and accommodations. Pier 60 is located on Clearwater Beach and is an entertainment hot spot offering live music, handmade souvenirs and kid-friendly entertainment.
Experience America’s Top Rated Beaches in Clearwater

Known as “Mad Beach” to locals, Madeira Beach provides plenty of aquatic fun with great fishing spots, sightseeing boats and even watching dolphins as they playfully swim. Treasure Island is a wide stretch of beach with soft tan sand and warm air filled with kites and the smell of sun tan lotion. Build a sand castle with the kids, splash around in the sparkling Gulf of Mexico and then walk up to a beach bar for a refreshing cocktail. Or visit John’s Pass Village, a unique shopping destination that separates Maderia Beach and Treasure Island.

For a laid back day of lounging, sipping drinks at outdoor bars and sampling fresh seafood at charming restaurants Sunset Beach is a favorite option. Pass-a-Grille Beach is another Clearwater beach that provides a relaxing atmosphere and is tucked away from the rest of the world. Lovebirds will want to enjoy romantic moments on Redington Shores Beach. Bring some friends and a fishing pole to Redington Shores Beach to enjoy the fishing pier that extends 1,021 feet into the Gulf of Mexico and stays open 24 hours a day.
Experience America’s Top Rated Beaches in Clearwater

To the north of Clearwater is Caladesi Island, one of the few completely natural islands along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Caladesi Island was ranked the Number 2 beach in the nation by Dr. Beach in 2006 and is a beach lover’s paradise. From swimmers and sunbathers to nature enthusiasts and those looking for romantic seclusion Caladesi Island provides soft white sands, fun activities and tranquility for all.

Located at the southern tip of St. Petersburg is Fort De Soto which was ranked by Dr. Beach as the nation’s Number 1 beach in 2005. This beautiful peninsula beach attracts locals from the Clearwater and St. Petersburg area as well as visitors from around the world. Fort De Soto has everything from paved bike trails, large picnic pavilions and a fishing pier to snack bars, campgrounds and a military fort that has been transformed into a museum.
Experience America’s Top Rated Beaches in Clearwater

For the ultimate beach retreat take a relaxing boat or ferry ride to Shell Key. Explore miles of undeveloped beaches while searching for unique shells and sand dollars. Be sure to bring your sunscreen and lots of water since shade on Shell Key is limited. Also bring your camera to snap shots of native and migratory birds that can be found nesting on this peaceful beach.

Miles of soft white sand and sparkling water make it easy to see why the beaches of Clearwater continue to be ranked as some of the best in Florida and in the nation. Endless water activities, building sand castles with the kids and enjoying romantic strolls along the coastline is what Clearwater, Florida is all about.
Experience America’s Top Rated Beaches in Clearwater

Source : http://www.bookit.com/

Home-Sale Numbers, Prices Continue Slide In Florida, Nation

2007-12-17T17:27:00.001+05:30

The number of existing single-family homes sold in October in the Tampa area fell 30 percent, compared with a year ago, and the median price took another beating, sliding 7 percent.

Despite the declines, there was a blip of good news.

The median sales price for existing homes in the Tampa metro area rose by 4 percent in October, compared with the previous month, according to data released Wednesday by the Florida Association of Realtors.

The median sales price in October for a single-family home was $209,000. That's up from $200,700 in September. The median is the point at which half the homes sold for more and half for less.

But home sellers shouldn't get too optimistic. Economists typically look at year over year comparisons to assess the real estate market, and the Bay area's October median price dropped 7 percent compared with October 2006 when the median price was $225,800. The yearlong drop is in keeping with the recent trend of falling home prices.

Still, it's refreshing to see a positive change, said Brenda Wade, a real estate agent with Signature Realty in Brandon. However, she warns not to read too much into the jump in the median sales price between September and October.

"Buyers may be spending the same amount of money, but they're getting a lot more home for their money," Wade said. She noted that some of her sellers have dropped prices by as much as tens of thousands.

Wednesday's home sales data comes on the heels of a report released Tuesday that showed Tampa leading the nation in yearlong price declines. The Standard & Poor's Case Shiller Home Price Index showed September prices dropped 11.1 percent, compared with the same month last year.

Mike Larson, an analyst with Weiss Research in Jupiter, said the increase in the median sales price in October may be mildly encouraging to sellers, but he doesn't expect a trend.

"I think it's just a little noise in the numbers," he said. "The bigger story is still intact."

Larson predicts housing prices in the Tampa area will fall 5 percent to 10 percent more before the price slide ends and the market starts to improve in late 2008.

The number of single-family home sales in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area dropped 30 percent to 1,700 in October, the Florida Realtors group said.

Wade said clients who purchased homes in 2004 or earlier generally are making money when they sell, but those who purchased in 2005 or later are having trouble getting any significant appreciation. Buyers who purchased in 2006 typically are losing money if they sell now, she said.

Statewide, Florida saw an 8 percent drop in median price to $222,100 and a 29 percent drop in the number of sales in October, compared with the same month last year.

In other Florida cities, the price and sales trends were similar:

•In Miami, home prices remained essentially flat year over year with a median price of $354,800. The number of sales fell 33 percent.

•In Orlando, prices dropped 11 percent to $238,500, and the number of sales fell 36 percent.

•In the Sarasota-Brandenton area, prices dropped 5 percent to a median of $263,900, and sales fell 17 percent.

Nationally, sales of existing homes fell for the eighth consecutive month in October, with median home prices falling by a record amount. Analysts blamed the worsening housing slump on the credit crunch that hit in August.

The National Association of Realtors reported that sales of existing single-family homes and condominiums dropped by 1.2 percent last month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.97 million units.

The median price of a home sold last month declined to $207,800, a drop of 5.1 percent from a year ago, the biggest year-over-year price decline on record.

Analysts blamed the October weakness on the fallout from a serious credit crunch that roiled financial markets. Banks and other lenders have tightened credit standards in response to soaring defaults, especially on subprime mortgages, loans provided to borrowers with weak credit histories.

Source : http://www2.tbo.com/

The Allure Of Clearwater Florida

2007-12-14T16:41:00.000+05:30

What immediately comes to mind when you begin thinking of Clearwater, Florida? Do you think about the crystal blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico? Do you think of time spent relaxing on the sand with your family, making a quick trip to Busch Gardens with the kids for a day of thrills? Do you consider a region that is so beautiful that it's the destination for many destination wedding, or do you think of travel to the Sandpearl Resort?

If you enjoy the time that you've spent at the Sandpearl Resort and are thinking about making Clearwater, Florida your home, why not consider the Sandpearl Residences? At the Sandpearl Residences, you'll find that you're able to take advantage of all of the area's natural beauty - clear blue water and white sand beaches - as well as the modern conveniences that you want to have in a home.

Of course, your convenience doesn't mean that your home at the Sandpearl Residences will have had a negative impact on the environment around you: the properties have been designed to be environmentally sound, eco-friendly and energy efficient. The new luxury homes available at the Sandpearl Residences were designed for those who wanted to enjoy the best of what the area has to offer - whether you choose to make a condo at the Sandpearl Residences your year round home or to have the property as a place where you can vacation, you'll know that there's nothing missing from the experience.

First, there are the views. Stretching in each direction, views from the
Sandpearl Residences include long stretches of white sand beach and blue water - reminding residents of the beauty of Clearwater and the allure of the community. Then, of course, there's the interior of each condominium home within the development - an interior that varies depending on your choices.

You'll find homes with three bedrooms and a wide-open floor plan if that's what you're looking for. If you're looking for a place that's a bit smaller, consider choosing a two bedroom home with an outside terrace or, if you would rather spend time on the beach than looking at the sand and sea, consider a two bedroom interior unit.

Regardless of you needs, regardless of what you want to find in your home, you'll discover that the Sandpearl Residences offer high ceilings, tinted and laminated glass, granite countertops throughout the kitchen and bath, control over the temperature, premium appliances and more. You'll also find that the developers will work with you to customize your home with various colors, finishes and materials.

In other words, you'll find that your home at the Sandpearl Residences is likely to be as unique as you are, while still offering all of the comforts and amenities that you would expect to find in a luxury condominium. Sit back and enjoy the beauty without having to travel far from home; when you live at the Sandpearl Residences, you're likely to find that you have access to everything you want - and it won't take long to understand why others dream of visiting Clearwater, Florida.

Source : http://vacationrentals.vrwd.com/

Buying Real Estate in Clearwater, Florida

2007-12-12T17:34:00.000+05:30

This is actually a very good time to buy real estate in Clearwater, Florida. Pricing has come down up to 25% with many properties.

There was the insane run up in prices from 2004-2006, but that run up has caused buyers to stay away from the market. Sure, there are still sales. But, the sales volume is down around 30%.

Buyers of real estate are always skiddish when they believe prices are going to drop even lower. That is understandable, but keep this in mind: when sellers find out that the bottom has been reached and prices are starting to rise again - they will not be very willing to take a bit hit on their price.

One major difference between buyng real estate in a buyer's market and buying stocks - you can always bid lower than the asking price. I have seen a seller with an asking price of 1 million, accept 790K. Real estate is really a market driven commodity.

In Clearwater, Florida it is no different. Now is an excellent time to grab a piece of Clearwater Beach. There are so many properties for sale - you can almost name your price.

Here is another real example: I know someone well that has a condo for sale in the luxury Belle Harbor on Clearwater Beach. The condo next to hers was purchased about 2 years ago for 1.4M. The view on that one was somewhat better, so he figured his was worth 1.2-1.3M. He started trying to sell it for about 1M about 1 year ago. Now he is down to 712K and will probably take less.

I hope you see that now is a much better time to buy real estate than stocks. The stock market is not likely to go up another 20% in the next year or two. Real estate really can be a good investment, if you buy low enough.

Source : http://www.articles-hub.com/

Fun Meets Inspiration in St. Petersburg/Clearwater

2007-12-11T15:22:00.000+05:30

What do jellyfish eat? Why are stingrays flat? After my 8-year-old nephew asked those and other questions that I couldn't answer, I came to a realization. If I was going to be his favorite aunt, I needed professional help – experts who could answer his questions, activities that challenged him and places he could be anything he wanted.

Fortunately, all of these things were in my grasp on Florida's Gulf Coast. The St. Petersburg/Clearwater area is famous for its calm, kid-safe Gulf waters (like you'll find around top-rated Fort De Soto Park) and for its fun family activities (like the nightly sunset festival at Clearwater Beach's Pier 60). But the area has much more to offer, too: attractions and activities that will entertain kids of all kinds, and stimulate and shape who they become.

Budding biologists
You've seen them on TV and in aquariums, but it doesn't compare to seeing dolphins surface beside your boat. Amateur biologists can accompany a pro on Clearwater Marine Aquarium's Sea Life Safari Nature Cruise and learn about marine life. Back at the aquarium, don't miss Winter the dolphin, who gained global fame after being rescued from a crab trap. She lost her tail but has managed – amazingly – to survive under the aquarium's care. The dolphin has received a prosthetic tail from a local prosthetics company, and the aquarium has developed a program that brings disabled children and amputees to visit the dolphin for inspiration.

If you can't get enough of dolphins, take a thrilling ride aboard the Dolphin Racer in St. Pete Beach or sail among the beloved mammals on a quiet luxury yacht cruise from Dolphin Landings on St. Pete Beach. Want your own boat? Kayak the sunny channels and shady mangrove tunnels of Fort De Soto Park and look for wildlife.

One of Florida's oldest residents, the American Alligator, prefers freshwater and you may likely spot one gliding across Lake Maggiore at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve in St. Petersburg. An interactive exhibit there teaches about the wildlife and vegetation you can see along the preserve's paths. For a colorful biology lesson, visit historic Sunken Gardens, where velvety wings fill the air inside the butterfly garden.

Adventurous explorers
Kids of all ages love ghost towns, and one with a beach is a recipe for hearty adventure and sweet relaxation. Wander the empty brick streets and let the kids climb ruins of the fort on Egmont Key, then hang out on its pristine beaches. The island at the mouth of Tampa Bay held a fort and town of 300 during the early 20th century. Today it crawls with box turtles and is still home to a working lighthouse. A ferry runs daily from Fort De Soto Park.

About the only thing that can compete with a ghost town is a ghost tale. By the light of a lantern, a hooded storyteller with Ghost Tours of St. Petersburg leads the intrepid through the shadows of St. Petersburg's supernatural history. Older kids are more likely to appreciate the history and not be too frightened. If you prefer the daylight, take the family on a fun-filled Segway tour of the St. Petersburg waterfront.

For other more scientific and cultural explorations, voyage on a sponge boat with the St. Nicholas' Boat Line in Tarpon Springs, or let the kids learn how to build a tree house (and climb to one) at Great Explorations, the Children's Museum adjacent to Sunken Gardens.

Future sports players
Whether they're aspiring athletes or simply sports fans, there are plenty of venues for kids to get their game on. Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Devil Rays, not only gives kids a chance to watch the baseball pros but also has things to amuse them if they get restless. Kids can take swings against computer images of Major League pitchers or touch the smooth skin of a live Manta Ray swimming in the Rays Touch Tank.

Kids awe as the nation's top volleyball players spike the ball on Clearwater Beach. The nets aren't just for pros. Bring your own ball and sunscreen for a family game.

For a little nostalgia and a break on the wallet, try the retro-style St. Pete Shuffle downtown. Listen to music, enjoy the warm weather and play that classic game of shuffleboard – all for free.

Playing pirate
There are pirates in these waters, and they might just be your kids – at least for a couple of hours. The crew on The Pirate Ship at John's Pass Village & Boardwalk and Capt. Memo's Pirate Cruise on Clearwater Beach indulge kids' swashbuckling fantasies as mom and dad relax to the backdrop of a Gulf cruise and possibly a sunset. Young pirates can get their faces painted, have water gun battles and hunt for treasure. Another pirate ship, The Treasure Seeker, offers air-conditioned cruises departing from The Pier in St. Petersburg.

And when the kids just want to relax and be kids, there's always the beach and the business of building sandcastles, collecting seashells and bobbing in the waves.

Source : http://www.visitflorida.com/

St. Petersburg/Clearwater Area Beaches

2007-12-08T16:27:00.000+05:30

This area has 35 miles of powder-white barrier island beaches on the Gulf of Mexico. From undeveloped, isolated island hideaways to wide, soft city beaches, you find exactly what you want in this slice of Florida. Area beaches have won many awards for everything from sand quality to environmental management. Whether you are in town for a quiet respite or can’t wait to catch some waves, you are in the right place.

Anclote Key State Park
A picturesque 1887 federal lighthouse standsstands lookout on the southern end of the island's four-mile beach while ospreys nest in the pines throughout the island. Six distinct biological communities provide habitat for dozens of species of birds including bald eagles. Anclote Key is an excellent swimming area and provides a perfect area for nature study. The island is accessible only by boat, but you can catch a ride from the sponge docks in Tarpon Springs.

Fred Howard Park
Located in north Pinellas County on the Gulf of Mexico, this 150-acre family park features a 1,000-foot public beach. A mile-long causeway connects the swimming area with the mainland. It’s a good spot to windsurfing or to watch others who are.

Sunset Beach
This small city-run park in Tarpon Springs features a quiet, sheltered waterway in the north end of Pinellas County. The light surf and constant breeze makes this a perfect area for windsurfing or sunset watching.

Honeymoon Island State Park
Both sandy and rocky shores line this state park. Wildlife is abundant, and two bird observation areas and nature trails offer plenty of opportunities to see osprey and other native Florida wildlife. Sunbathing, shelling, swimming, fishing and picnicking are

Caladesi Island State Park
Named by Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman (Dr. Beach) as the second best beach in the United States in 2006, Caladesi is a pristine island only accessible by boat. Enjoy the three-mile nature trail that winds through the island’s interior. Ferries depart hourly from nearby Honeymoon Island. Spend your day shelling, picnicking, swimming or scuba diving.

Clearwater Beach/Pier 60 Park
This wide beach of sugar-fine sand draws volleyball players, sun worshippers and swimmers. In other words, this is where the action is. Pier 60 Park features a recreation complex on Clearwater's expansive beach with covered playgrounds, fishing and concessions. Come visit Pier 60 for festivals, concerts, entertainment, and most of all, beautiful Gulf of Mexico sunsets.

Sand Key Park
With a half-mile of powder-white sand and gorgeous blue water, Sand Key Park is consistently rated among the top beaches in the Unites States. Hosting mostly families, the 90-acre park includes picnic shelters, restrooms and plenty of parking.

Bellaire Beach
This beach is the beginning of a narrow strip of gulf-side communities surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Intracoastal Waterway on the other. Belleair Beach offers several public beach access points along Gulf Boulevard. The largest site is at Morgan Street. The Belleair Causeway, a popular place to windsurf and kayak, connects Belleair Beach to the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area mainland.
Indian Rocks Beach
Indian Rocks Beach features wide, flat, white-sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico and is accessible by more than 20 beach access points along Gulf Boulevard. The public access park is conveniently located near several restaurants and shops.

Indian Shores
Indian Shores includes a fishing pier and access to the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary. The beachside sanctuary is the largest wild bird hospital in the United States and cares for more than 500 birds at a time. Public beach access is north of Park Boulevard. Tiki Gardens park is the most popular beach access point in the area and features ample parking, restrooms and showers.

Redington Shores, North Redington Beach and Redington Beach
Redington Shores, North Redington Beach and Redington Beach are relatively quiet neighborhood beaches known for three fishing piers. Public beach access points are available throughout the area.

Madeira Beach
A favorite among tourists and locals, this wide,sandy beach is packed on weekends with families and singles, both young and old. At the southern end is John's Pass Village. This cozy, turn-of-the-19th century fishing village is a world apart in rustic charm. There are several beach access points, the largest being at the County Park, which is a 1-½-acre site featuring 450 feet of beach, ample parking, restrooms and showers.

Treasure Island
This big, wide, community beach has abundant sea shells on its white shores, which are often jamming with sports, concerts and cooking and crafts shows. A playground and three public boat ramps are also on site. There are six public access points.

St. Pete Beach
Set on seven-mile Long Key, which also contains the community of Pass-a-Grille and the renowned Don Cesar Hotel, St. Pete Beach offers wide swaths of shelly sand and usually calm waters, making this a popular family hangout and is an ideal place for a long walk. Water sports abound on these five-miles of soft sand. Public access, restrooms and showers are available at Upham Beach.

Pass-a-Grille Beach
The first established town on Florida's West Coast barrier islands, Pass-A-Grille retains its historic charm. The area has no
tall buildings and the beach is wide. The two-block-wide peninsula features inns, stores and restaurants. There is parking along the beach, and showers and restrooms are located near the center of town.

Shell Key
This island features dynamic sand dunes and beaches. Shell Key remains one of the last pristine barrier islands in Florida, providing ideal habitat for more than 100 species of nesting, migrating and wintering seabirds and shorebirds. Its beach offers excellent shelling and sunbathing opportunities. Located near Tierra Verde just north of Ft. DeSoto Park, this island is accessible only by boat. You can catch a ride from St. Pete Beach.

Fort De Soto Park
Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, also known as Dr.Beach, ranked Fort De Soto Park the number one beach in the continental United States in 2005. A historic fort built during the Spanish-American War is located on Mullet Key, the largest of the five islands making up this unique area that features fishing piers, kayak rentals, rollerblading and biking trails, camping areas and 900 unspoiled acres including seven miles of wide, white-sand beaches.

Egmont Key
This 440-acre island wildlife refuge was once a camp for captured Seminoles and, later, a Civil War Navy Base. Accessible only by boat, this island is recognized by its 1858 lighthouse and the ruins of Fort Dade. Daily tours to the island are offered from Ft. DeSoto, St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island and John's Pass.

Source : http://www.visitflorida.com/

Clearwater Florida Vacation Condos| Ho! Ho! Ho! It Is Not Snowing on Clearwater Beach!

2007-12-07T16:55:00.000+05:30

Clearwater Florida Condo Buyers Planning on a White Christmas

For all our Snowbird and Cold Weather Friends we just wanted to say we’re dreaming of a white Christmas but “Ho! Ho! Ho! It’s Not Snowing on Clearwater Beach!” – just sugar white sand everyday!

Okay, all of you folks living up north you need to look at the picture below a friend just sent me and realize what your winter will look like

soon, and it’s not too late to pick up the phone and call us to buy your winter home in hot and sunny Clearwater, Florida.

So it’s your choice – another cold winter shoveling snow in Canada, New York, Michigan and other destinations north of here or get your request into Santa… “I want a warm tropical beach house or condo in Clearwater Beach, Sand Key or Island Estates Florida (I’m not picky) for Christmas this year”, a place where kids use shovels and buckets to build sand castles not to get out the front door.

There’s never been a better time to buy your piece of paradise. Did we mention it was 78 degrees here today and it’s December?

Update from our friend Elaine Reese, a leading REALTOR in Worthington Ohio – who shared it’s snowing in Ohio and the Murph, her dog, is NOT dreaming of a white Christmas – he’s ready for Spring Break!

If you have been following our blog articles, you will know we can get you in a condo bargain for under $150,000, so what are you waiting for?

Source : http://www.sandbarstosunsets.com/

Clearwater, Florida: "A Great Place to Live"

2007-12-06T17:03:00.000+05:30

The Clearwater Florida / Greater Tampa Bay region, including St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach, Tampa, Clearwater and Clearwater Beach, Dunedin and Tarpon Springs, is among the top 10 expanding real estate markets in the United States.

If you are planning to invest in real estate or move to a great year-round location, consider the Clearwater Florida area. The median sales price in the area rose 29 percent in the third quarter of 2005. Incredibly, it is still lower-priced than the majority of Florida coast property, so there is time to take advantage of investment opportunities.

Focus on redevelopment

As Clearwater moves into the new millennium, members of the community have united to focus on redevelopment. Dramatic changes are visible along key roadways, in neighborhoods, along the beach, and in the expanding downtown area.

Located in the center of Pinellas County, Clearwater offers unique opportunities to residents and businesses to redevelop historical buildings and rejuvenate an already dense area.

The Memorial Causeway, a scenic palm-lined highway, connects the city’s mainland with Clearwater Beach and its three miles of white sand beaches directly on the Gulf of Mexico.

Clearwater is the county seat of Pinellas County and one of the largest cities in the rapidly growing Tampa Bay metropolitan area.

Clearwater: Better place to live, work and play

By taking full advantage of Clearwater’s many strengths and resources, residents and visitors will find the city a better place to live, work and play.

Clearwater is a progressive city that is committed to enhancing residents' lives while preserving a heritage that is rich in culture and exquisite in landscape. Here you'll find everything you could expect from a tropical paradise - and much more.

The Clearwater area was named for its abundant fresh springs along the shore. Settled by colonists in the mid-1830s, it was not until the 1890s that Clearwater gained a reputation as a resort community. Today, fun 'n sun lovers still come from around the world, and although Clearwater is a great spot to get away, it's an even better place to live. Our community is friendly and socially responsive, and our City government is economically active and environmentally conscious.

Clearwater: Cost of living below national average

Pinellas County is the most economical place to live in Florida and the entire Southeast United States, according to the ACCRA Cost of Living Index.

The composite index for Florida cities shows the current Clearwater - St. Petersburg area cost of living is 6% Below the National Average. According to ACCRA, the area's cost of living is below the national average, with Clearwater - St. Petersburg reporting a 93.9% cost of living, 6% below the national average.

Factors included in measuring living costs are housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, health, and miscellaneous goods and services.

Source : http://www.highpointrealtycorp.com/

Clearwater Florida BEACH WALK

2007-12-05T11:50:00.000+05:30

...a winding beachside promenade with lush landscaping, artistic touches and clear views to Clearwater's award-winning beach and the water beyond, a place where bicyclists, rollerbladers and pedestrians all have safe and convenient access and where visitors and locals can socialize, dine, play games, or simply enjoy the spectacular sun and surf.
This is Beach Walk

Five years in development, Beach Walk is designed to revitalize the community that surrounds Clearwater's popular south beach destination, which has played host to generations of visitors from all over the world. Part of the city's "Beach by Design" plan, it has already played a vital role in attracting new hotel development to the beach in a time when many older hotels are being converted into condominiums, threatening our community's tourism industry.

The project will transform the look and feel of south Clearwater Beach and bring new vitality to the area, providing a setting that complements the beauty of the true destination: our pristine, white beaches.
Why Beach Walk

Tourism is Clearwater's number one industry, and the beach is at the center of the tourism. City and tourism officials recognized that, in order to meet the expectations of visitors in the new millennium, there was a need to improve the atmosphere surrounding our beautiful beaches. With more permanent residences going up on the beach, it was important, too, to preserve overnight accommodations for the millions of visitors who come back year after year.

Beach Walk is designed to bring visitors closer to the beach and provide an environment that will draw new hotel, retail, entertainment and restaurant business for out-of-town visitors, residents, and day trippers. Already, several new hotel projects are in development in part because of the improvements promised by Beach Walk.

Modern amenities and a true "beachside experience" is what Beach Walk is all about. It will set Clearwater apart as a destination for Tampa Bay, the region, and the world. In short, Beach Walk is the future of tourism in Clearwater.

Source : http://www.myclearwater.com/

Resources

2007-12-05T10:58:00.000+05:30

File Recovery
Outlook Repair
Company-List Business Directory
Computer Directory
Dating Directory
Hard Drive Recovery
Finance Directory
RAID Recovery
Used Dodge
List Nation
Internet Privacy
Internet Marketing
Shopping Directory
Software Directory
Bad Credit
Travel Catalog & Directory
Undelete
Free Web Hosting
Used Cars
Zip Code Database
Data Recovery
Mesothelioma
Automotive News

Clearwater Florida Real Estate

2007-12-03T09:53:00.000+05:30

Clearwater is the area's second-largest city covering much of the northern half of the Pinellas Peninsula including the barrier islands that make up Clearwater Beach. There are hundreds of clearwater real estate available Clearwater homes for sale. Clearwater is known for its miles of white sand beaches, accommodations, shopping, casual beach restaurants, breathtaking sunsets, and highly valuable Clearwater Florida real estate. Looking for Clearwater Homes? Search the MLS here. Find Clearwater subdivisions here.

Officially designated the Best City Beach in the Gulf region by the nation's foremost beach expert Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, Clearwater Beach features public parking and a host of facilities at Pier 60 Park. Pier 60 facilities include beach showers, concession stands, clean restrooms, volleyball nets on the beach and the largest beach playground in the area. Pier 60 also hosts a nightly Sunset Festival with live music, artisans and entertainment as the sun sets into the Gulf of Mexico.

The largest fishing fleet belongs to the Clearwater Municipal Marina housing around 50 commercial boats for diving, fishing, sailing, parasailing, sightseeing, dolphin watching and more. Clearwater is home to more than 250 hotels and motels including many Superior Small Lodging properties. It is also home to some of the countries finest corporations including Fortune 500 distributor of PC hardware and software Tech Data.

History of Clearwater
Long ago, Clearwater was the site of Fort Harrison where wounded soldiers healed after fighting Indians on the Florida frontier. The United States Army began the fort in 1841 during the Second Seminole War. The fort closed in less than six months and the area was opened to settlers. The city was incorporated in 1891 and now has a population of 101,830. There are plenty of affordable homes for sale in Clearwater, please contact us for more details.

Clearwater is the crown jewel of Pinellas County and one of the most popular vacation spots in Florida. This one fact makes Clearwater Florida Real Estate so valuable. With its world-renowned white sand beaches, abundant sunshine and world class recreation areas, Clearwater enjoys a reputation as a visitor’s paradise as well as a satisfying city in which to live and work. Clearwater combines the beauty of our tropical environment with festive activities and amenities. It is a safe and fun place that values cooperation, respect, and life long learning.

Incorporated in 1891, Clearwater experienced significant growth due to the Victorian interest in healthful living. The Florida climate brought many tourists to Clearwater via Henry B. Plant’s Orange Belt Railway and they happily settled into the area permanently. Since that time, Clearwater experienced the land boom of the 1920’s and the post-war population boom in the 1940’s and 1950’s. People from all around the United States live in Clearwater and move here everyday! It's a great place to live and to raise a family.

Source: http://www.lipplyrealestate.com

Clearwater Florida Real Estate: Outstanding Values, Exciting Living

2007-11-28T09:42:00.001+05:30

Clearwater is a great place to live. It is the second-largest city in the area, offering many enjoyable activities and is one of the most popular vacation spots in Florida. There’s so much to do and see, from the emerald blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico on Clearwater Beach to the great shopping and dining up and down Gulf to Bay Boulevard. Living in Clearwater will keep you hopping!

Spending the day or evening at Clearwater Beach is a wonderful way to pass the time. For dining and entertainment, I recommend stopping at Shepard’s. Day or night it’s one of the most popular spots on the beach. In the mood for a great grouper sandwich? You can’t beat Frenchy’s Saltwater Cafe. There are also a few dinner cruises along the Intercoastal waterway that are both relaxing and fun.

We also love spending time at Caladesi Island and Sand Key Beach parks, where we enjoy swimming, fishing, picnicking, canoeing and walking the nature trails. You can take a ferry boat to Caladesi Island where you can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the island without the sound of car motors and horns. Sand Key Beach offers a beautiful beach where you can delight in the balmy breezes and beautiful sunsets on the Gulf of Mexico.

Clearwater has many annual events that are free or low cost to the public. Each October we attend the Jazz Holiday weekend, where we can listen to popular Jazz musicians such as the popular Branford Marsalis and Koko Taylor while enjoying a beautiful sunset overlooking Clearwater Bay. The Jazz Holiday has brought in over 25,000 people and is one of the most popular events that we look forward to. In the spring we enjoy the many activities offered by the Fun N Sun Festival and enjoy their parade. Clearwater is also the winter home to the Philadelphia Phillies baseball team where we spend the day watching one of America's favorite pastimes.

We enjoy visits to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, where we see Sunset Sam, a dolphin world-renowned for his painting. The Aquarium is one of 8 facilities in the United States, and the only one on the west coast of Florida, authorized to rescue and rehabilitate marine mammals.

If you enjoy water sports or the outdoors, Clearwater property is for you. Homes in Clearwater range from being built back in the early 1900s to newer homes built in the 2005s. At any given time, there could be thousands of homes available, ranging in price from condos in the low $90Ks to exclusive waterfront homes well above $3M. Clearwater is also centrally located to Tampa and St. Petersburg and is only 90 minutes away from Disney World and Sea World in Orlando, Florida. Clearwater is a great place to call home or to buy real estate.

There are thousands of available Clearwater Florida homes for sale. Known for its miles of white sand beaches, accommodations, shopping, casual beach restaurants, breathtaking sunsets, and highly valuable real estate, Clearwater is a great place to live.

Source : http://ezinearticles.com/

Sand Key Condos | Complete List of All Sand Key Luxury Condominiums On the Beach

2007-11-24T17:19:00.000+05:30

Florida Luxury Condos List | Sand Key Florida Condominiums on the Beach.

Sand Key Florida - the southern most point of Clearwater Beach is one mile of luxury Sand Key condo after luxury Sand Key condo.

Many people don’t know that Sand Key is actually part of the City of Clearwater (and so is Clearwater Beach) and home to some of the most amazing waterfront luxury condos with the sugar white sand of the beach outside your door and the Gulf of Mexico breezes blowing in.

Enjoy truly magnificent Sandbars to Sunsets from any of these Sand Key Oceanfront Condo communities.

We have put together a complete list and are developing detailed information for you. If you would like to see any of these or get daily updates on all the condos for sale just request our Complimentary Market Report.
FLorida Luxury Real Estate | All Sand Key Condos on the Gulf of Mexico Beach

All are Gulf front ~ Ocean front ~ Beach Condos of Sand Key Florida Communities that are part of City of Clearwater | Clearwater Beach

The order of the list is from southern most point of Sand key to the northern most point before heading over to Clearwater Beach

* 1660 & 1600 Gulf Boulevard - Dan’s Island I & II - Condos on Sand Key
* 1586 - 1582 Gulf Boulevard - Cabana Clubs I & II Sand Key Condos on the beach
* 1560,1540,1520 Gulf Boulevard - Ultimar I, II & III Gulf front Sand Key condos
* 1480, 1460,1440,1420 Gulf Boulevard - South Beach I,II,III,IV Ocean front Sand Key condos
* 1390, 1380 Gulf Boulevard - Sand Key Clubs I & II Beach front Sand Key condos
* 1370 Gulf Boulevard - Bella Rosa of Sand Key Gulf front condos
* 1350 Gulf Boulevard - Utopia Gulf beach front Sand Key condos
* 1340, 1320 Gulf Boulevard - Cresent Beach Club One & Two condos on Sand Key, FL
* 1290 Gulf Boulevard - Lighthouse Towers Sand Key condos on the beach
* 1270 Gulf Boulevard - Harbor Light Towers Sand Key condos on the beach
* 1250,1230 Gulf Boulevard - Landmark Towers I & II Oceanfront condos Sand Key,FL
* 1200 Gulf Boulevard - Meridian - Sand Key Condos on the Gulf of Mexico
* 1180 Gulf Boulevard - The Grande of Sand Key Luxury Condos on the beach

Sand Key Condos on the beach | Clearwater Beach Florida 33767Proud to be selling Clearwater Beach Real Estate - waterfront tropical beach living at it’s finest.

Source : http://www.sandbarstosunsets.com/

Clearwater, Florida.: Scientology Stronghold

2007-11-23T16:46:00.000+05:30

Pinellas County Commissioner Susan Latvala was one of the first local politicians to warm up to Scientologists in the early 1990s and remains friendly with church officials.

"They've become part of the community because they reached out and made an effort," said Latvala, who got a $250 campaign donation from a Scientology-affiliated political action committee last year. "It's really changed in the last 10 or 12 years."

Said Harney: "We've done some growing up, we've gotten to know people, we're better understood. I think it is more understood that we are people from all walks of life."

With a new causeway to the beach rerouting tourists away from downtown, Clearwater leaders are desperately trying to figure out how to fill the many vacant storefronts and attract a mix of people to the city center.

Meanwhile, Scientology continues to spread out in Clearwater, turning a former assisted-living complex into an upscale hotel for visiting Scientologists, fixing up a run-down apartment complex to house more staff and opening a new parking garage.

Though many of its buildings are tax exempt, the church paid nearly $900,000 in taxes on its properties in the city last year. And a church consultant in 1999 estimated that Scientologists pump more than $80 million a year into the local economy.

Still, there is disagreement about whether Scientology's large presence has helped the redevelopment of downtown Clearwater or hampered it.

New condo buildings are rising on the harbor and a long-awaited streetscape facelift is in the works, but some people wonder if a diverse downtown culture is possible with a Scientology building on nearly every corner and church staffers on the streets every day.

"When you have a mystery, people stay away," said George Kelly, owner of the landmark Downtown Newsstand.

Not everyone agrees. Omar Alexander, 21, who sat sipping a frozen coffee drink at the downtown Starbucks recently, said he isn't bothered by the ever-present Scientologists and doesn't believe they keep other people away. Every Scientologist he knows is a good person, Alexander says.

"They're working hard, doing what they need to do," he says.

Source : http://abcnews.go.com/

Clearwater, Florida Real Estate: Tips for Purchasing Property

2007-11-22T10:54:00.000+05:30

The Tampa Bay Area consists of Tampa, Saint Petersburg, and Clearwater, Florida. Known for its fabulous beaches, low crime rate, and cultural activities. Clearwater, Florida is a wonderful retirement area, great place to raise a family, and is also the perfect location for any commercial business.

As seniors retire and begin to make plans for spending their golden years in comfort, Clearwater, Florida offers many benefits. There are many retirement communities located in Clearwater, and many are attracted to them due to the warm Florida climate, the fabulous golf courses, and resort style of living. Seniors looking to relocate will benefit from talking to a real estate agent to determine their various options. Waterfront property, golfing communities, and Clearwater, Florida real estate located with easy access to downtown are all important factors to discuss with your realtor.

The Tampa Bay Area continues to thrive and prosper. Buying Clearwater, Florida real estate allows you easy access to commute to work in both St. Petersburg and Tampa. There are many other local cities that are easily commutable such as Brandon, Largo, and Gulfport. Relocating to Clearwater, Florida doesn’t mean that your job is constricted to Clearwater. As the economy continues to grow in Tampa Bay, rest assured that with your Clearwater, Florida real estate purchase, you could grow and thrive in your career as well.

Pinellas County has a strong commitment to education and residents of Clearwater, Florida reap the benefits. Of all the cities in Florida, Clearwater boasts the lowest crime rate. This makes raising a family in Clearwater very desirable. Beaches, playgrounds, theaters, museums, and great schools all contribute to making Clearwater an excellent community for raising children.

If you are a new or first time buyer, there are some things that you should consider to ensure that your Clearwater, Florida real estate purchase is smooth and unhindered. One of the first things you should do is safeguard your credit. Before you plan on purchasing Clearwater, Florida real estate avoid spending large amounts of money on purchases. These include items such as expensive jewelry, furniture, boats, automobiles, etc. You need to be conscious of your income and be very wary of anything that may be a potential cause of debt. To qualify for your home loan you will need to ensure that your debt to income ratio is very low. Be wary of anything that can increase your debt to income ratio and hinder your new Clearwater, Florida real estate purchase.

You should remain faithful to you job before applying for a home loan or mortgage. Most lending institutions will need to see a two-year track record of stable employment for you to qualify for a home loan. If you are self-employed, you may face additional obstacles in proving that you have enough income to qualify. Changing jobs before you complete a home loan application can have very negative results. Remain faithful on your job and if you wish to be self-employed, wait until after you are a homeowner and have the stability needed to make that switch. By working with your realtor, safeguarding your credit, and taking necessary home ownership classes, new homeowners can realize their dreams of owning Clearwater, Florida real estate.

Source : http://www.clearwaterfloridarealestate.info/

ABOUT CLEARWATER AND ITS ISLAND BEACHES

2007-11-22T10:43:00.000+05:30

Our world-renown beaches, extensive recreational opportunities, nature-based attractions, and the availability of accommodations designed to fit every budget and taste, are all reasons why Clearwater and its island beaches are one of Florida's most popular vacation spots. Come put yourselves in our shoes!

Clearwater Beach is the Best City Beach on the Gulf of Mexico according to Dr. Stephen Leatherman ("Dr. Beach") , a Florida International University professor who has been ranking America’s beaches for over a decade. USATODAY.com readers have ranked Clearwater Beach in their Top 10 List of Best Beaches from Maine to Hawaii. Conde Nast Traveler has also recognized Clearwater Beach as the Best City Beach on the Gulf of Mexico and the Travel Channel has declared Clearwater is the Best Activity Beach in the United States. More

Caladesi Island State Park is currently ranked the fourth best beach, primarily for its water quality, rustic charm, clean beaches, on-site amenities and its emphasis on wildlife. Pinellas County is the only Florida destination which can say it has two of the top 10 beaches; in fact, Fort DeSoto Park is ranked the #1 Beach in the United States.

Clearwater is very proud to be designated a Blue Wave Beach. This certification program, overseen by the Clean Beaches Council, promotes beaches which are managed to protect their natural assets. This designation assists the public in identifying the nation's cleanest and safest beaches. Caladesi Island, Honeymoon Island and Sand Key Park beaches have also received the Blue Wave Designation.

Clearwater Beach is undergoing a dramatic renaissance, the most significant improvement to Clearwater's tourism economy in decades. Our Billion Dollar Beach includes over one billion dollars in private development, a mix of upscale hotel accommodations, residential condominiums and Beach Walk, the City of Clearwater's beautification program. Beach Walk will dramatically complement the beach's landscape - and the visitor experience - by adding green space and public areas with more amenities as well as improving pedestrian access. Several private projects are already underway, including four major hotel/condo properties. Phase One of Beach Walk construction began in January 2006 and will last approximately 12 months.

Source : http://www.clearwaterflorida.org/

Moving to Clearwater Florida | Did you know Clearwater Florida is More Affordable than Where You Live?

2007-11-21T11:37:00.001+05:30

Everyone knows that Clearwater Beach Florida is home to one of the top beaches in the world, that we have excellent weather here, and that we have year-round outdoor activities including golf, fishing, diving, boating, and tennis; just to name a few.

What you may not know is that we have plenty of Clearwater real estate housing bargains, and that it is cheaper to live in Clearwater, Florida for a lot of you living elsewhere in the USA?

Yes, that’s right most people will save money by moving to Clearwater,
Florida when compared to where they live today. For example:

* Housing in Clearwater, Florida is a 36% bargain over homes for sale in Sacramento, California;
* Clearwater Florida Real Estate is 72% cheaper than real estate in New York NY and the NJ Suburbs;
* and Homes for sale in Clearwater Florida are 52% cheaper than homes for sale in Alexandria, Virginia.

Source : http://www.sandbarstosunsets.com/

clearwater florida

2007-11-21T11:17:00.000+05:30

Clearwater Florida is a BIG town, and can not be easily characterized in a few short sentences. Politically, Clearwater includes the Gulf Beaches of Clearwater Beach and Sand Key, but these are a small portion of the city.

Clearwater stretches from Gulf to Bay and boosts several large shopping centers, office complexes and light manufacturing districts.

Residential neighborhoods run the gambit from small to large, and old to new. Estates, houses, condo's apartments, mobile home parks are all available.

Clearwater's Jazz Holiday, held in October each year, is one of Florida's premier jazz festivals. This free, four-day event is held at Clearwater's Coachman Park, where many other activities take place year round.

From family communities to retiree communities; shopping malls to antique and artist shops; and Home to Phillies Spring Training and The Clearwater Phillies; Clearwater is a Great place to live.

Source : http://florida.real-estate-guide.us/

Mold: A silent, dangerous threat to homes and health

2007-11-21T10:55:00.000+05:30

Clearwater, Florida – There are hundreds of thousands of dwellings in the Tampa Bay area. There are apartments, condos, townhouses and single family homes. And each and every one of them is a potential target of mold infestation.

Mold is caused by water intrusion from the roof, in your windows or through the walls of your house.

Wendy Clark lived in a building at the Vinings Apartment Complex in Clearwater. She says she moved in march of this year, and from day one she felt something was wrong.

“The place would have a really bad odor,” Wendy says. After just one month, she moved out because she was constantly getting sick.

Wendy says, “I’ve had several eye infections, breathing problems and anxiety because of this.”

In June of this year, we went in with our cameras and mold was all over her apartment. She had it in her sink, under the cabinets, under the air conditioning unit, in her clothes and in her shoes.

Wendy says she told management at the Vinings about the mold problem immediately, but she says they were slow to respond.

Wendy decided to pay for her apartment to be tested for mold. She hired Innovative Environmental solutions.

And in their report, the total spore count topped more than 117,000 per cubic meter. That is considered “abundant.” They also found an aspergillus count of 112,000, a cladosporium count of more than 3,000 and stachybotrys of 114 count.

It's important for you to understand some common types of mold. Aspergillus is a common mold linked to allergies and other diseases. And then there is cladosporium, which is easily made airborne and can cause respiratory infections, asthma and hay fever. But stachybotrys is the most toxic and dangerous of them all. This mold has the ability to produce what is called mycotoxins.

Dr. Richard Lipsey, a mold toxicologist says it can kill you. He says while cases of fatalities involving mold are rare, there is no ignoring the symptoms of people exposed to dangerous levels of mold.

“You will have upper respiratory, headaches, nausea and pains, like burning eyes, nose and throat, ” according to Dr. Lipsey.

Wendy's doctor referred her to a respiratory allergist because of her exposure to high levels of mold.

But her attorney says he's also concerned about how widespread the mold problem might be at her apartment complex.

“What I’m afraid of in this case of the Vinings, is it appears there’s a possibility it had infected other units.”

He says he does not know how many might be involved. Mr. Berman’s fears are not far fetched. Dr. Lipsey says mold can and will spread quickly.

We asked management at the Vinings about Wendy's case and if they were having mold problems with other tenants.

They sent Tampa Bay’s 10 News a fax saying, “moisture is an issue for every Florida resident. It's why we encourage our residents to control the humidity in their apartments.”

The fax goes on to say, “ensuring the health and safety of our residents and employees is our highest priority”.

Source : http://www.tampabays10.com/

When Choosing a Clearwater Condos or Home - Consider More Than Expense

2007-11-20T10:28:00.000+05:30

Choosing between Clearwater Condos and a Clearwater Home is a conflict that many couples face. Weighing the Clearwater Condos and Homes pros and cons is necessary to make an informed decision. Think of these points when you are in the midst of discussions. Don’t make your decision lightly. Read the following.
1. Maintenance vs. no maintenance. Do you have the energy and resources to keep up with the care a home requires? This is one of the main attractions of Clearwater Condos. If spraying your yard with insecticide, trimming your hedges and endlessly mowing grass are not your cup of tea…let someone else pay for your air-conditioner repair and consider a Clearwater Condos!
2. Are you more interested in convenience or privacy? A Clearwater Condos will offer you many conveniences in a common location. A Clearwater Home will afford you the privacy you may crave. Whichever you choose, consider this point carefully as you choose between a Clearwater Condos and home.
3. Space vs. Limited Space. Clearwater Condos are generally smaller that a Clearwater Home BUT NOT ALWAYS. This must be considered as you move. Downsizing may become necessary.
4. Expense- This is something to consider as you choose among Clearwater Condos and homes. You can often get MORE with your money from a Clearwater Condos than with a Clearwater Home! A simple solution too this dilemma is to list the amenities of both- complete lists for both the Clearwater Condos and the Clearwater home will give you the answer you need.
5. Explore all your options before you make your final decision. Don’t discount a Clearwater Condos right away. You may be surprised at what you find! Also, make sure you look at homes in your price range- consider them as well. You can gauge the value of each and be certain you’ve made the right choice!
6. Enjoy your home or condo in Clearwater. Remember no matter which choice you make Clearwater is still the most beautiful city on earth!

Source : http://www.clearwatercondos.net/

The Beautiful City of ClearwaterFlorida on Clearwater Beach, The World’s Best Home Site!

2007-11-20T10:26:00.000+05:30

When you are choosing among cities to live, Clearwater Florida is one that rises to the top of EVERY list. ClearwaterFlorida is one of the world’s most livable cities and here are just three of the many reasons why!
1. One of the best reasons is the beach! Clearwater Beach is a number one an international resort destination– one of the top ten beaches in the world! One of the few pure white sand beaches, Clearwater beach is beautiful and warm enough to swim most of the year. If you love the beach, you’ll love ClearwaterFlorida!
2. Another top reason to live in Clearwater Florida is the temperate climate. Located in western Central Florida, ClearwaterFlorida has sub-tropical (rather than tropical) temperatures. Clearwater Florida is a place for folks tired of shoveling snow, piling on coats and scraping windshields!
3. ClearwaterFlorida has some of the nicest residents on earth! Clearwater Florida has people who enjoy the beach, tend toward a positive viewpoint, love life and celebrate it! ClearwaterFlorida citizens come from all parts of the globe and that cultural richness is refreshing!

Source : http://www.clearwatercondos.net/

Clearwater FL Real Estate Information

2007-11-20T10:14:00.000+05:30

Many times Clearwater Real Estate buyers avoid using the services of a REALTOR under the mistaken belief that it costs them money - or that they will be able to negotiate a better deal directly with the seller or seller's real estate Broker. This can be an expensive mistake when buying a home. If you are negotiating directly with the seller or seller's real estate Broker, you may not be taking advantage of the best value available in the residential housing market today! You can have your own REALTOR, a Buyer Broker or Buyers Agent, who is committed to using the experience gained through hundreds of successful Clearwater real estate negotiations for your benefit at no charge to you!

The realty business is unique, where an agent with one day's experience and no home sales gets paid the same as real estate agents with several years experience and hundreds of successful sales. An experienced Realtor can help you avoid costly mistakes, find the best home value, and make your home buying or relocation experience an enjoyable, stress-free one!

When viewing homes for sale, it is important for homebuyers to know and understand for whom the agent helping with the house hunting is actually working. The agent may be working as a sub agent - representing the seller's best interests during negotiations - or as your agent representing your best interests during negotiations. If you are not sure who your agent is working for - ask for clarification. Realtors must fully explain agency. When negotiations commence, wouldn't you want to know whether information you divulge will be used for the seller's benefit - or your's?

The contract you sign to buy or sell a property is a complex and legally binding document. An improperly written contract can allow the purchaser or seller to void the sale, or cost you thousands of unnecessary dollars. Have an experienced Realtor who knows the "ins and outs" fully explain the contract you are about to sign to you, or have your lawyer review it before acceptance.

Source : http://www.epoweredprofessionals.com/

Favorite Clearwater Florida Condos | Chateau Belleair from $75,000 | 33764

2007-11-19T14:56:00.000+05:30

Clearwater Florida Condos Under $100,000Buyers often ask me, "Can I buy a condo in Clearwater Florida for Under $100,000?" Today the answer is YES!Well today there are still some great choices for living in Clearwater for under $100,000. There are options for both buyers looking to find their full time home and also for our seasonal buyers looking for hassle free condo living. Today we'll introduce you to one of the best condo buyswe know of in Clearwater: Chateau Belleair. Chateau Belleair is an extremely desirable, quaint, peaceful community of 114 condos with 14 larger garden units. It is centrally located in Clearwater Florida off Belcher and Belleair Road with the added benefit of having a totally private and tropical retreat feel. You can look forward to coming home nightly and relaxing in the large heated pool or the largest hot tub/spa I've ever seen or sit on your patio and enjoy the lush landscaping out your back door.

Source : http://www.topblogarea.com/

Clearwater - Tampa Florida Area

2007-11-19T14:40:00.000+05:30

Clearwater, often referred to as the jewel of the Suncoast, is a worldwide vacation destination. Tourists come from around the globe to enjoy the white, sugar sand beaches, gentle Gulf breezes and tropical-like climate this Tampa Bay area destination affords. Located on the most western portion of Pinellas County, the city is a favorite of those seeking an action-packed vacation or simply wanting a stress-free vacation away from the everyday bustle and grind. As a prime vacation destination, Clearwater largely relies upon tourism as a major source of revenue. Over the years a number of the smaller motels and hotels of yesteryear began to deteriorate and officials began looking at ways to revitalize the beachfront. This led to a vision of unprecedented proportion, one of which would not only provide a new, enhanced beachfront for the community, but also increase tourism. Clearwater officials teamed with developers and hammered out one of the most dramatic renovation plans the area ever experienced. Dubbed Beach Walk, the city's $30 million beach beautification program is transforming this slice of paradise into a haven for real estate investors and those seeking a luxurious, upscale waterfront lifestyle. Gone are the majority of rundown motels and hotels, replaced with more than $1 billion of private development consisting of five-star condominiums, resorts, vacation rentals and luxury town homes. Activities are endless. Fishing, swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, boating, water skiing, jet skiing, parasailing and more await the water sports enthusiast. Board one of the many cruise ships docked in Clearwater and enjoy majestic sunsets, dolphin watches, dinner cruises or casino gaming. The beaches, golf, shopping, the Clearwater Aquarium and an array of culinary dining experiences ranging from casual to black-tie await the landlubber. Pier 60 on Clearwater Beach provides anglers a most excellent saltwater fishing opportunity. Extending 1,076 ft. into the Gulf of Mexico, it is one of the best-equipped and most attractive piers in the state, staffed by expert employees. The Pier is a multipurpose facility functioning as a public observation point, fishing platform and serves to host the nightly Sunset Festival, a celebration of artisans, street performers, musicians and merchants offering hand-crafted wares. Sand Key, located just south of Clearwater Beach across Clearwater Pass is condo central. Affectionately dubbed "Condo Row" by locals for the continuous row of high-rise condominiums fronting the Gulf of Mexico, this barrier island community, similar to that of Clearwater Beach is less than a mile wide. The Western side of Sand Key faces the Gulf of Mexico and sport the majority of high-rise condos. The Eastern portion of this Clearwater enclave overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. Sand Key is home to a plethora of condominiums, vacation rentals, townhouses, beach houses, time shares and single-family homes providing for immaculate lodgings. Clearwater is known for its hospitality and love of the arts. The city takes great pride in sponsoring annual events such as the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Fun & Fun Festival, Clearwater Celebrates America (July 4) and more. The city is also home of the spring training facilities for the Philadelphia Phillies major league baseball team. Many major airlines fly directly to St. Petersburg-Clearwater-International Airport making for quick drive-times throughout the Tampa Bay area. An easily navigable Interstate system provides easy access to beaches and other major attractions such as Tampa's Bush Gardens and Disney World in nearby Orlando only 90 minutes away. Whether one's lodging preference consists of condominium vacation rentals or time shares, Clearwater provides an abundance of lodgings second to none. A large number of condos, vacation rentals, motels and hotels are found throughout the community with pricing and facilities designed to accommodate all budgets and lifestyles.

Source : http://tampa.condocompany.com/Clearwater/

Taylor Wimpey throws in Clearwater Beach towel

2007-11-17T11:24:00.000+05:30

Construction firm Taylor Wimpey is looking for white knight to rescue it from a disastrous $30m-plus investment on Florida's Gulf of Mexico coast.

The company has abandoned its efforts to develop any kind of property on 2.5 acres of edge-of-the-water prime real estate at Clearwater Beach and is looking for a buyer for the land.

The developer – which still operates as Taylor Woodrow in the US – bought the hurricane-damaged, 217-bedroom Adam's Mark Hotel in mid-2005 at a top-of-the-bubble price of $31.5m (£15.12m).

It demolished the hotel in order to develop the $180m Indigo Beach Residences and Suites, a project boasting 112 luxury condominiums and 78 condo-hotel suites.

However, in May the company said it was suspending its plans for that project because of the deteriorating property market in Florida. At the time TW said that move would knock £15.5m off this year's bottom line.

Now the company has decided that the Florida condo market is completely overbuilt – it is believed there are 800 condos on the market in the Clearwater Beach vicinity alone - and that a 230-bedroom timeshare resort would be a more profitable way to go.

TW is hoping to attract a buyer that specialises in that kind of development and to sweeten the deal the company has applied to Clearwater's city council to change the land use. TW is not saying how much it wants for the property.

"There is no market as a condominium," Robert Glantz, senior vice president of the company's US Tower Division told the St Petersburg Times. "Our choices were to hold or to sell. If we want to sell, we have to change it to something that is marketable."

Source : http://www.guardian.co.uk/

On Clearwater Beach, condo dreams dry up

2007-11-17T11:21:00.000+05:30

CLEARWATER - Not long ago, popular south Clearwater Beach was teeming with tourists staying at the Beach Towers, Days Inn, Spyglass, Holiday Inn Sunspree and the Adam's Mark.

But those hotels and others were knocked down or closed in recent years to make way for nine high-end condominium and hotel projects, valued at $1.4-billion. And more closures are expected.

The thinking was the beach community could absorb the loss of an estimated 1,100 rooms because the new units would attract more tourists, residents and money.

Somewhere amid the "condo boom," however, prices skyrocketed, the market softened, insurance rates escalated - and buyers vanished.

Developers delayed or changed projects. Some refunded deposits, downsized rooms or lowered prices. Nearly all have pushed back construction.

What was supposed to be a time of great optimism, of unprecedented construction on the famed beach, has given way to quiet and an uncertain future. It could be many years before the rooms - and the millions of dollars in business - return to the beach.

Real estate, financial and government experts say the delays - some of which have left rubble-filled spots where hotels once stood - could make the beach less accessible, shrink city business revenues and cripple the tourist industry.

"We might never make up for what we've lost," said David Little, a real estate agent and redevelopment chairman for the Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Source : http://www.sptimes.com/

Florida’s September 2007 Existing Condo Sales Report

2007-11-17T11:19:00.000+05:30

We now have stats on the sales of existing condominiums in Florida for the month of September. It has decreased in the month of September, with a total of 2,557 condos sold statewide compared to 4,032 in September 2006 for a 37 percent decline, according to FAR. The statewide median sales price for condos last month was $194,200, down 4 percent from September 2006’s condo median price of $202,800. NAR reported the national median existing condo price was $228,500 in August 2007.

Last month, interest rates for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.38 percent, according to Freddie Mac, which was lower than the average rate of 6.40 percent in September 2006. FAR’s sales figures reflect closings, which typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written.

Mirroring the national trend, turmoil in the mortgage market impacted Florida’s housing sector in September, despite continued low unemployment rates and other positive economic activity. Statewide, sales of existing single-family homes totaled 8,688 last month while 14,044 homes sold in September 2006 for a decrease of 38 percent in the year-to-year comparison, according to the Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR).

Housing industry analysts previously predicted that mortgage disruptions would affect home sales in September. The National Association of Realtors’® (NAR) latest market outlook expects conditions for the mortgage industry to improve in the coming months and that widening credit availability will help homebuyers. Keeping the current housing market in perspective, 2007 will be the fifth highest year on record for existing-home sales, says NAR Senior Economist Lawrence Yun. “Although sales are off from an unsustainable peak in 2005, there is a historically high level of home sales taking place this year,” he says. “One out of 16 American households is buying a home this year.”

Source : http://www.condoleaf.com/

Clearwater Real Estate

2007-11-16T17:07:00.001+05:30

Clearwater is located in Pinellas County, just south of Safety Harbor and west of Tampa. The city of Clearwater stretches over more than half of the Pinellas Peninsula as well as the barrier islands that make up Clearwater Beach. Here you will find detailed information on Clearwater homes for sale, including condos, villas, townhomes, waterfront property and vacant land.

Clearwater offers those in the real estate market many different properties which combine a tropical atmosphere with an array of different housing choices. Whether you are searching for a single family residence or a deluxe waterfront condo, you are sure to find what you desire in Clearwater. Whichever you choose, you can rest assured that you'll be owning property that will increase in value throughout the years. Find Clearwater Florida homes for sale, condos in Clearwater Florida, condominiums on the water in Clearwater Florida. Clearwater Florida single family homes including town homes in Clearwater Florida. Living in Clearwater Florida means living near the beach, within walking and a short driving distance to the beach.

Source : http://www.clearwaterfloridarealestatesite.com/

clearwater florida condo rentals

2007-11-16T10:22:00.000+05:30

The white beaches which look almost powdery, along with the clear blue waters make the name given to this place so apt. Clearwater is located to the west of the Tampa Bay area. All those who are interested in more than just shopping and relaxing on their vacation will find this place the ideal holiday destination. Clearwater allows you to spend your time parasailing, snorkeling, fishing, surfing and jet skiing.

Rooms or cottages at the luxury resort here are available for as low as $100 per night. Other kinds of accommodation facilities such as motels and hotels are available at cheaper rates.

Most people who have visited Clearwater have been nothing but very pleased with their holiday experience. While a few complain of the occasional hair in the food or the room that did not offer a decent view, most people cannot stop gushing about the courteous and amiable people and staff of Clearwater which is seen as a welcome relief from the snobbish and selfish crowd at other popular holiday destinations in Florida. Even those who complain cannot neglect the breathtaking sunset or the beautiful beaches of this exquisite place.

Some of the hotels and resorts offer you cottages or apartment suites which provide you with the luxury of a patio from where you can see the famous Pirate Ship coming and hear the music playing on board with tourists having a gala time. Most of the hotels are situated at close proximity to the beaches which let you take quiet lunch picnics by the sea and also allow you to walk back to your room quickly and easily.

Once you have found the perfect hotel or any other accommodation of your choice, you would want to return to this place again and yet again and once you become a frequent visitor you cannot help but hope to own your own private condo here some day.

Source : http://ezinearticles.com/