GayRealEstate USA: Florida

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June 11, 2008

Rentals Increase

By Jeff Adolph

Home Price Rises

The current real estate market in places like Southern California, Florida, and Las Vegas is representing a favorable opportunity for those that are renting.

With so many homes on the market and many of these being vacant, and not selling as quickly as anticipated many home owners are electing to rent to cover their mortgage. and, this is presenting a win-win situation for those who are renting.

Firstly, with so many rentals on offer existing landlords are finding it difficult to raise rents. Secondly, rental prices are becoming more competitive with renters getting excellent deals and value leases. Thirdly, renters are also getting incentives in their leases so that they are encouraged to rent certain apartments over others.

Hessann Nadji, director of a real estate investment service in new York said, "What's different now is the degree of excess homes and condos being put on the rental market. The sheer volume is creating more competition for traditional rental markets. According to research data approximately 3.3 million homes and condos have come up for rent, and estimated increase of 6.1%, and this is attributed to a rise in condo developments, which developers are now finding hard to sell. For example - the number of homes for rent in Fort Lauderdale, Florida has risen by more than 11% to 10,000 units.

Ron Suffield, president of a Miami real estate firm said, "Our rental activity is about three times what it was three years ago. Today, for the first time ever for the firm, we're renting more properties than we are selling."

Main Story Source: CNN.com (2008) Renters Profit from Owner's Pain; available online at www.cnn.com

Picture Source: Microsoft Clipart Online

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June 11, 2008 in California, Florida, Nevada | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (1)

February 28, 2008

Around the Nation -- Residential Real Estate Update - Florida

By Jeff Adolph

State-by-state

Located in the southeastern region of the United States with a total population of 15,982,378 Florida is the 4th largest American state by population.

The economy of this state consists mainly of agricultural products and tourism with spectacular coastal stretches and a warm inviting climate.

There are no personal income taxes payable in Florida and property tax is based on fair market value, and assessed annually. Some homeowners in this region are also eligible for a $25,000 Homestead exemption depending on their circumstances.

F ort Lauderdale

Classed as an active sellers market this area is typically selling homes within 30 days, and houses are in limited supply. the median price for this region hovers between $280-$340,000 and prices are up by 10-15% compared to last year. Housing hot-spots are waterfront properties and town-homes in Victoria Park. Buyers are receiving multiple offers and family homes are selling quickly, with condos and town-homes hard to find.

Key West

The median price for homes in this region hovers around the $740,000 mark and prices are up by 15-20%. Key West and lower Florida Keys are considered hot spots with homes in limited supply. There is a strong demand for properties by baby boomer's and retirees. Typically, homes are on the market for 90 days and multiple offers are being submitted with buyers getting 95-100% of their asking price.

LGBT Real Estate Facts: There are 41,048 same-sex couples residing in the region, making it the 4th gayest state in the U.S.A. The gayest zip codes are 33305 & 33304 & 33312 Fort Lauderdale - Five Points, Sunrise and New River, 33139 South Beach, 33040 Key West, and 33138 Little Haiti/Miami Shores. -- gaydemographics.com

Main Story Source: House Hunt (2008) Real Estate Market Trends; available online at http://www.househunt.com

Picture Source: wikipedia.org and visitusa.com

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February 28, 2008 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

January 25, 2008

The Attraction of Warmer Weather

By Jeff Adolph

Investment Opportunities

Many of us living in colder climates begin to dream of warmer weather after a few weeks of snow, mittens and heavy jackets. This is usually the time of the year that many of us think of possibly relocating or buying a second home in a more inviting climate.

This is why so many LGBT gravitate to areas like Fort Lauderdale.

It's not only the attraction of warmer climate it's also the attraction a steady realty prices and sound investment that draw many to the region.

As local real estate broker, Tom Schon said, 'the South Florida region real estate, which had recently plateaued, has since appreciated by 1-4%, because of supply and demand. Every year, we have a couple of hundred thousand of people moving here, so there's always a plateau, great escalation and then a plateau again.'

Typically, most people buy and sell real estate every 10-12 years; however South Florida turns over real estate every 3-5 years.

The gay population in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami Beach is vast and small towns just outside of these locations like Wilton Manors are beginning to gentrify because of the LGBT community.

This is seeing a higher sense of community established and a rise in real estate prices. In fact, Wilton Manor has doubled in value in the last ten years.

The price rises in areas like Wilton Manors may mean that some within the LGBT community cannot afford to live here. If this is the case there are some excellent up and coming areas in the region that may be more affordable.

According to Schon, North of Sunrise Boulevard and west of Anders Avenue in Fort Lauderdale are definite options.

Real Estate Fact: The average selling price in this region is around $400,000, however there are lofts being built in the $200,000-$300,000 range. --www.gfn.com

Source: Epstein, A (2008) Looking South to Florida; available online at www.gfn.com

Image Source: www.gfn.com

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January 25, 2008 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

January 22, 2008

High Interest Displayed in Arts Development in Highly Populated Gay Area

By Jeff Adolph

Creative LGBT Developments

'Arts on Gaines', a newly proposed development in Tallahassee (pictured left), where artists could live,work and exhibit their creations has received high levels of interest in a recent survey.

According to Homeinsight.com, a real estate demographic site, Tallahassee and surrounding areas have a population of just under 244,000 people and it is said to have as high a gay population as Atlanta.

The development would not only revitalize Gaines Street but also offer mixed affordable housing for many artists, some of which are gay.

Local artist, Steve Fox (pictured left), who has been using his basement as an art studio for years, said he'd move into the development instantly if it was approved.

'A place like Arts on Gaines would be interesting because it would be a community', Fox said. 'Right now we're scattered all over the city and the country.'

The Council on Culture and Arts recently conducted a survey that 332 artists completed. Of all the artists surveyed 166 said that they'd be interested in 'relocating to the multipurpose arts facility and 222 said they'd 'rent a studio or workspace.'

Peggy Brady, the councils executive director said, 'The responses were incredible. It really solidifies what this group of citizens has been doing for the past three years working toward point.'

Many in the area feel that current events may see a 20-year discussion about turning Gaines Street into an Arts and Entertainment district come to fruition.

Regional Real Estate Fact -The median home price of this region hovers around $137,000 and homes in the area are expected to gain in price by 10% over a 2-5 year duration -- homeinsight.com

Source: Pecquet, J (2008) Survey Shows High Artist Interest in Arts on Gaines; available online at www.tallahassee.com

Image Source: Wikipedia and tallahassee.com

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January 22, 2008 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

December 18, 2007

Renters Beware

By Jeff Adolph

LGBT Rental

In next month's ballot there are some tax-cut inclusions that could very well excite us, but politicians that state that renters will see reduced rents are probably jumping the gun.

Gov. Charlie Crist is one such politician, saying recently that, 'I'm a renter too. And, I'm hoping the landlord will pass along the saving.'

Veteran real estate agent in St. Pete, who is a waterfront specialist, Sharon Simms found Crist's comment, 'amusing'.

'If anything, it may slow rent increase, but I don't expect it to decrease any rents.'

So if you're renting, don't hold your breath for a rental price decrease because it is highly unlikely to happen.

Source: Maxwell, S (2007) Beware Politicians Who Say They Expect Rent Cuts; available online at www.orlandosentinel.com

Image Source: www.cincystreet.com and www.search.worldres.com

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December 18, 2007 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

November 29, 2007

Tom Wolfe -- Pansy Punchline Controversy

By Jeff Adolph

Special Interest

Best-selling author Tome Wolfe delivered a speech to an invitation-only crowd in Miami early this year on 'Art and Real Estate' that caused quite a stir.

Wolfe, a Yale graduate and ex-reporter has dabbled in both non-fiction and fiction. His most controversial being his 1975 book on the American art world, 'The Painted World,' as he referred to the art world as more of an 'art village,' depicting it as a small network.

Wolfe's speech, which divulged the secret formula for urban renewal was equally as controversial.

In the invitation-only crowd sat several prominent gay men, while the best-selling author dressed in his trademark white suit recalled a story of himself and a West Virginian coal miner, who had an interest in art.

Wolfe recollected expressing his suprize when the coal miner, a tough, rugged type, told him of his hobby.

the man looked as if I had called him a pansy or a flaming lulu,' Wolf said.

The diverse crowd was not amused, and the remark was referred to by the Miami Herald as a little odd especially coming from A dandy like Wolfe.'

Source: Roth's, S (2007) Pansy Punch Line not the Write Stuff; available online at http://miamiherald

Image Source: www.tomwolfe.com and www.miamiherald.com

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November 29, 2007 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

September 14, 2007

Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Haven

By Jeff Adolph

Gay Vacations

Once known as a haven for students during the 60's - 80's, Greater Fort Lauderdale is becoming a haven for the sophisticated, the hip and the savvy with a multitude of gay and lesbian travelers flocking to the region.

With a wonderfully warm all-year round climate, a huge selection of attractions, excellent accommodation choice, fantastic gay nightlife and exquisite dining Greater Fort Lauderdale is becoming a haven for the LGBT community.

In fact, there are some 100 odd establishments including hotels, clubs and restaurants who boast about their gay-friendly qualities. Not to mention, three gay and lesbian publications or the Metropolitan Community Church who welcomes LGBT members.

The three most popular gay beaches in the area are the State Road A1A opposite NE 18 Street; Terramar Street at A1A; and Sebastian Street at A1A.

As Nick E. Grossman, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau said, 'It is a market that we have been very successful in attracting..., a large part of that success is due to the diverse tourism product that we offer. Our new Rainbow Vacation Planner puts everything in one place and makes it easy to choose a hotel or create a complete vacation itinerary.'

Ed Salvato, travel editor of PlanetOut Inc. said, 'the Greater Fort Lauderdale Rainbow Vacation Planner is an impressive resource for gay travelers and is a welcome step 'out' for a CVB to offer such a comprehensive gay guide.'

This years guide has been sent out to local and national gay businesses and organizations. However if you missed out and would like to receive your free copy call (800) 22-SUNNY or visit www.sunny.org/rainbow

Source and Images: PlanetOut.com (2007) Greater Fort Lauderdale Rolls Out the Rainbow Carpet; available online at http://www.naplesnews.com

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September 14, 2007 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

September 10, 2007

New LGBT Community Near Rehoboth Bay

By Jeff Adolph

New LGBT Developments

Rehoboth Bay and downtown Rehoboth look set to have a 32 villa complex devoted entirely to same-sex couples situated nearby.

The complex named 'The Villas at Harmon Bay' are the development of Kim Hamer, a real estate agent and his partner Ernie DeAngelis who have a desire to create a harmonious gay-centric community in a gay-friendly and inviting area.

As Hamer said, 'we're calling it, a diverse community of acceptance.' And, the complex will be marketed as the 'first GLBT community in Delaware.'

The villa's are a 'gated collection of one-and two-story single, detached Florida style houses' and will be priced from between $600,000 and $900,000 with an annual condominium fee of approximately $4,000 for ground and facility maintenance.

The facility will be built on Country Club Road across from the former Three Seasons Campground and it is anticipated it will draw a great deal of enthusiastic buyers.

Two of the 32 Villas are already spoken for with prospective buyers placing a $500 refundable deposit on the properties at a recent launch party.

'The nice thing about the Villas is that it's open to anybody,' said Hamer. With the interest so far being generated by many, not just those within the gay community.

For more information on the Villas at Harmon Bay please visit: http://villasatharmonbay.com/

Source: Pringle, B (2007) Gay-centric Community in the Works; available online at http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070906/DCP01/709060382/1058/DCP

Image Source: pbase.com and threeseasons.com

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September 10, 2007 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

September 06, 2007

Commercial Market Showing Signs of Softness

By Jeff Adolph

Commercial Developments

South West Florida's housing market collapse may begin to affect the strong commercial construction industry in the region.

This is attributed to the aftermath of a national credit crisis that will see lenders cut funding that is vital to new projects.

Brenda Talbert, executive director of the Collier Building Industry Association said, 'I'm starting to hear rumblings that they're taking projects of f the table.'

And yet, commercial development differs vastly to that of residential in terms of value and marketability.

Tom Tippett, a commercial real estate analyst at the Naples office of Integra Realty Resources said, ' 'It seems like everyone's waiting for the shoe to drop. But when you look at the economic mechanics of a lot of the (commercial development) deals that have been proposed, a lot of them still work.'

The most profound impact is that lenders are feeling the crunch with so many loan defaults in the residential market, which is making lending criteria and sorting through projects according to risk.

Barry Klein, a commercial developer up North and part-time Naples resident who is active with the International Council of Shopping Centers said, 'A lot of people who had money to lend for commercial are sitting on the sidelines.'

Most projects that are underway now like the Collier County 3.3 million square feet of commercial space which is under construction are a general reaction to the building landscape that unfolded 2 or 3 years ago when the residential was hot.

With the residential market now in a cold spell and lenders bracing themselves for a storm , developers are either tabling projects or amalgamating resources to protect jobs and their own best interests.

Source: Edwards, G (2007) Solid Commercial Market Showing First Sign of Softness in Region; available online at http://www.naplesnews.com

Image Source: Microsoft Clipart

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September 06, 2007 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

August 30, 2007

Gay Doctors in Orlando are Rare

By Jeff Adolph

Special Interest

Orlando is a city that has a rather profound gay population and yet when it comes to finding a gay doctor here it seems they are few and far between.

Jordan a 39 year-old real estate agent discovered this for himself after moving from South Carolina. 'I just wanted a gay doctor for obvious reasons. It's easier if the doctor is like you.'

However, Jordan was unable to locate one gay doctor in the Orlando area and his friends were unable to recommend anyone either. Upon delving further Jordan discovered that many of his friends were visiting straight doctors and hiding their sexuality from them; a move that Jordan views as un-healthy.

Jordan eventually tracked down a practitioner advertising in the Watermark, a local newspaper only because he refused to give up.

Gay Orlando ranks in the top 10 nationwide with an estimated population of 80,000 LGBT, so why are there so few gay doctors?

According to Chistopher Blackwell, assistant professor in the College of Nursing UCF, this is because there is a fear of ostracism within the medical profession.

As Blackwell said, 'we still live in a society where homophobia and heterosexism exist. Those physicians are dealing with the same stigmas as any LGBT person, and they are having to deal with the professional ramifications as well.'

And yet, a large part of being treated by a medical professional is being open about your lifestyle, especially when this can play an important role in early detection of ailments that you may be more susceptible to.

It took Jordan 14 years of perseverance to find a doctor he could connected with on an equal level in Orlando, hopefully for those LGBT who do not disclose their sexuality to their medical practitioner they too will find someone of a similar nature in the near future.

Source: Kurnerth, J (2007) doctor's Catering to Gays are Rare; available online at http://www.orlandosentinel.com

Image Source: Microsoft Clipart

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August 30, 2007 in Florida | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

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June 11, 2008

Rentals Increase

February 28, 2008

Around the Nation -- Residential Real Estate Update - Florida

January 25, 2008

The Attraction of Warmer Weather

January 22, 2008

High Interest Displayed in Arts Development in Highly Populated Gay Area

December 18, 2007

Renters Beware

November 29, 2007

Tom Wolfe -- Pansy Punchline Controversy

September 14, 2007

Greater Fort Lauderdale LGBT Haven

September 10, 2007

New LGBT Community Near Rehoboth Bay

September 06, 2007

Commercial Market Showing Signs of Softness

August 30, 2007

Gay Doctors in Orlando are Rare

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