Randy Huartson:: Randy The Realtor® :: Sarasota Real Estate:: Lakewood Ranch Homes
Search Lakewood Ranch Country Club real estate listings, homes for sale, and realtors in Lakewood Ranch Country Club - Lakewood Ranch, Florida.
- Randy the Realtor
- Sarasota -Lakewood Ranch - Longboat Key, Florida, United States
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Thursday, September 16, 2010
FIVE STAR Best in Client Satisfaction Award
Friday, September 10, 2010
Take a Moment to Reflect this Weekend
I hope that you will take a moment today to reflect on the things that are most important in your life and remember that through tragedy we have the opportunity to rise even stronger and become a stonger community,country and world.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Real Estate News for the Sarasota - Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch
Florida: a mix of different personalities: http://property.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/property/overseas/article7043180.ece
BUILDERS BOUNCE BACK:
http://www.bradenton.com/2010/03/01/2093253/builders-bounce-back.html
Good Time to Buy a Home - Video - FoxBusiness.com:
http://video.foxbusiness.com/v/3965326/good-time-to-buy-a-home?playlist_id=87185
The Silver Lining in Today’s Cloudy Market:
http://kcmblog.com/2010/02/22/the-silver-lining-in-today’s-cloudy-market/
Homeownership: Still the American Dream:
http://kcmblog.com/2010/02/09/homeownership-still-the-american-dream/
Sarasota is Top Place For Boomers To Retire:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/35259928?slide=7
Sarasota - #1 City to buy Real Estate according to Barbara Corcoran on NBC's Today Show: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/33191501#33191501
If these links do not show as active just cut and paste into your browser.....
Monday, February 15, 2010
Here is a tool for investors buying property
Friday, January 1, 2010
Happy New Year!
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Some Answers about Tainted Chinese Drywall
Most consumers believe that if there is no odor then there is no Chinese drywall. not true. The degree of smell varies greatly in each home, as does each person's ability to detect the odor. The strength of the smell also depends on the quantity of drywall was used in the home and the quality of paint and primer. Homeowners have reported no smell, but their home clearly has Chinese drywall. In short, do not rely on smell alone.
The strongest indicator of Chinese drywall is black corrosion of copper and porous metal surfaces, including electrical wiring. Check the interior and exterior of the HVAC unit (air conditioner) and look at the copper lines and coils. The majority of homes with Chinese drywall have had air conditioning problems, specifically premature replacement of the evaporator coil. You should also check the interior wall electrical receptacles and switches to see if the ground wires are blackened. In a new home.
Friday, October 30, 2009
First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Gets Senate and Obama Approval
It looks like good news for home buyers. The $8,000 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit EXTENSION has received Senate and President Obama informal approval over the last couple of days. Although the signatures to seal the deal appear all but certain it still has yet to be passed. This week Senators struck an agreement to not only push back the measure's deadline but to expand; allowing current homeowners and other buyers to claim the tax credit as well. A provision for a $6,500 tax break for homebuyers who have lived in their prior residences for at least five years may be added. Income limits for couples and individuals to qualify for the tax credits will also likely be increased, opening up the door for even more people to take advantage of the tax break(s). The plan calls for an extension of the credit until April and that buyer(s) must have a sales contract on a house by April 30, 2010 to be eligible yet gives them an additional 60 days to actually close on the property. We’ll keep you posted when it becomes official…and until then…keep looking for your new dream home!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Breast Cancer 5K Walk for Sarasota/Manatee Counties
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Sarasota as the top market to buy a home RIGHT NOW!
If you are sitting on the fence about buying a home in Sarasota? Real Estate prices in Sarasota have stabilized and are starting to trend upward. On Thursday morning, October 8, Barbara Corcoran, the Today Show's real estate expert, targeted Sarasota as the top market to buy a home RIGHT NOW. Click on the link (on the Jim Soda Blog) to find out more: http://www.jimsoda.com/blog/archives/2009/10/sarasota-number-one-in-the-nation.html
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Did you Know...Green?
For more information you can visit:
http://www.scgov.net/greenbusiness/successstories.asp
Friday, October 9, 2009
What's the latest news on extending the $8,000 Tax Credit for First Time Homebuyers
I have also enclosed this FAQ link that may answer other questions you or a friend may have regarding the $8,000 Tax Credit. Specifically, see question #19 on the following FAQ link. This addresses the question of obtaining the credit prior to filing 2009 tax returns.
http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/2009/faq.php
I hope this is of value to you . As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Randy the Realtor's Rules for a Successful Short Sale Closing
1. Short sales are here to stay for the foreseeable future
2. Buyer must be committed for the long haul (90 plus days)
3. Buyer’s offer must be based on current sold comps to match lender BPO (Broker Price Opinion)
4. Seller must have a lender negotiator/mitigator in-place
5. Seller’s Realtor or negotiator has to be a relentless pain calling the lender
6. Property should have only one loan or if two, both with the same lender
And some facts….While the market is showing signs of improvement, it's important to note that there have been over 11,000 listings entered in the Mid-Florida Regional MLS that indicate a potential short sale since January 1, 2009. Only 315 have been reported as sold transactions during that same period. If you have any questions about short sales or are looking to buy or sell real estate in the Sarasota/Bradenton area please give me a call at 941.586.9635.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Sarasota's 25th Annual Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix
Saturday – June 27
Festival Kickoff PartyLocation: Sarasota Municipal AuditoriumTicket Price: $100 per person / Tables of 10 availableTime: 7:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m.Live Entertainment by the Greg Billings BandSilent & Live Auction - Casual Dress – Includes Dinner and Open Bar
Sunday – June 28
Festival Car Show and ExpoLocation: Ellenton Suds Sports Grill at Ellenton Ice and Sports ComplexDetails
Thursday – July 2
“The Friendliest Catch”Fishing Tournament for the Physically & Mentally ChallengedLocation: Sarasota Outboard ClubTime: 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. (Lunch and Awards Included For Participants)Festival Parade of Boats Location: Main Street in Downtown Sarasota (Begins at U.S. 301 to Gulfstream Avenue)Start Time: 7:00 p.m. Downtown Block Party Location: Lemon Avenue / Downtown Sarasota Time: 8:00 p.m. – MidnightEnjoy live entertainment, great food, and vendors
Friday – July 3
Powerboats By The Bay Location: Centennial Park on 10th StreetTime: 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Free Admission – No Coolers AllowedSee Powerboats on display, meet special guests, enjoy great food, vendors, and live entertainmentMotorcycle “Grand Prix Souvenir Ride”Start Location: VFW Post 3233 – 124 S. Tuttle AvenueTime: Registration: 9:00 a.m. – First Bike Out 9:30 a.m. – Last Bike Out 10:30 a.m.$10 Registration Fee per person – Ride Ends at Powerboats By the BayFood and beverage will be available for purchasePeople’s Choice Bike ShowLocation: Centennial Park on 10th Street Time: Noon until 2:30 p.m.$ 15 Registration Fee – Trophies for 1st Place at 3:00 p.m.Bike Show ClassesBest Stock Harley-Davidson TouringBest Custom Harley-Davidson TouringBest Stock Harley-Davison CruiserBest Custom Harley-Davidson CruiserBest Vintage (Pre 1984)Best Metric TouringBest Metric CruiserBest Custom (Chopper Class)Note: Stock or Custom is decided by amount of chrome, paint and modifications“Meet & Greet Who’s In The Drivers Seat” Location: The Boathouse (Located directly behind the Hyatt Regency on the Water)Time: 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. $5 Adults – Children 12 and Under FreeObtain autographs and photos with participating race teams and Capt. Keith Colburn & Crew of Discovery Channel’s “Deadliest Catch”World’s Largest Offshore PartyLocation: Hyatt Sarasota BallroomTime: 8:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m.Ticket Price: $15 ppLive Music by “My Friend Scott” - Cash Bar & Food – Dress is Casual
Saturday – July 4
Powerboats By The Bay Location: Centennial Park on 10th StreetTime: 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Free Admission – No Coolers AllowedSee Powerboats on display, meet special guests, enjoy great food, vendors, and live entertainmentBayfront Fireworks Spectacular!!! Location: Best viewing along the Sarasota Bayfront near Island ParkTime: 9:00 p.m.Please consider bringing a cash donation or a new infant/children’s item for The Florida Center
Sunday – July 5
Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Boat RaceLocation: Off Lido Beach (Between New Pass and Big Pass)Time: 2 Heats at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. (Subject to Change)Live “Flag to Flag” Coverage on radio and televisionRace Awards CeremonyLocation: Hyatt Sarasota BallroomTime: 5:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. – Free AdmissionCelebrate with winning race teams!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Celebrate Sarasota Earth Day 2009 with a Green Commitment
1. Buy a programmable thermostat and reduce your energy consumption by planning your energy needs.
2. Avoid buying plastic bottled water. Try to reuse everything, especially plastics…and recycle.
3. Reduce your water use. Make sure you have low-flow faucets, shower heads, and toilets.
4. Buy locally made food products and locally produced services. Healthy food, environment and economy. Try a local Farmers Market.
5. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs. By using energy-efficient light bulbs you will save energy and money.
6. Turn off lights and electronics when you leave the room. Unplug your cell phone charger from the wall when not using it. Turn off energy strips and surge protectors when not in use (especially overnight).
7. Recycle your paper, plastics and other items that your local waste pick-up will take.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Thought for the Day
"The only thing you take with you when you die is the love you gave away".
Mother Theresa
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Fun thing to do In the Sarasota/Bradenton Area: Ringling College of Art and Design unvails its newest emerging artists!
Event Location:
Ringling College of Art and Design
Ulla Searing Student Center Exhibition Hall 2700 North Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34234
941.359.7505
Corner of U.S. 41 N./Tamiami Trail & Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Sponsors: Sarasota & Venice Realtor Associations
March 27, 2009
2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Chelsea Center
2506 Gulf Gate Drive
Sarasota, FL 34231
Free! Public Invited!
Exhibitors will showcase
• Indoor air and water quality
• Green home construction
• Solar products
• Water conservation techniques
• Florida-friendly landscaping
• Green home cleaning products
• Natural pest control
• Energy efficient products
Please call me at #941.586.9635 if you have Questions or would like to participate.
Real Estate Term You Should Know
Covenants, conditions and restrictions. The basic rules establishing the rights and obligations of owners (and their successors in interest) of real property within a subdivision or other tract of land in relation to other owners within the same subdivision or tract in relation to an association of owners organized for the purpose of operating and maintaining property commonly owned by the individual owners.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Merry Christmas from The Jim Soda Group!
Hello Friends!
I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving and have now recovered from over-eating It's now time to shift gears, and we talk to so many people that are discouraged by the news, stock market and other media that we thought it was a good time to take a moment for a good laugh (at our expense). Click on the link below, and then create one yourself and pass it along; laughter is contagious!!
http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/FrGWzFlyqJroFl6h2dfT
On a serious note, if you need any assistance in your home selling / buying process in the Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch area, or simply would like someone to bounce ideas off of, we are here for you. Don't hesitate to give someone on the team a call.
Enjoy the season, those around you and make sure you take time to laugh!!!
Happy Holidays!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Founding Member of NAR's Green REsource Council?
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Real Estate Term You Should Know
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Price Reduction: 5762 New York Ave, Sarasota, Florida 34231
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Jim Soda's Birthday photos...
Thursday, September 25, 2008
About Area Neighborhoods: Indian Beach
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Real Estate Term You Should Know
Any claim, interest, or right in property possessed by another that may diminish the true owner's rights or value in the estate. Examples include mortgages, easements, or restrictions of any kind. A claim, lien, or charge on property.
Monday, September 22, 2008
New Listing: 1064 N. TAMIAMI TRL # 1335, SARASOTA Florida 34236
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Join the Sarasota Coastal Clean Up Day This Saturday!
The group will gather initially at Bay Front Park, which fronts on U.S. 41 near Selby Gardens. Meet by the southern archway entrance to Bay Front Park and then the group will break into smaller groups to pick up marine trash at Bay Front Park & Marina, Bird Key Park, John Ringling Causeway Parks, and Ken Thompson Park. Please consider coming and volunteering. See you there.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Placed Into Government Conservatorship
MAKING SENSE OF THE STORY
· Under the conservatorship, the FHFA has the authority to take up to an 80 percent stake in the companies, and will review both GSEs’ financial condition quarterly. The federal government also may inject capital into Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, if needed. Both GSEs will be allowed to increase their mortgage funding over the next year and a half, and their stock will continue to trade, with stockholders retaining all rights in the stock’s financial worth. However, the plan does call for a 10 percent reduction per year to GSEs’ portfolios, beginning in 2010, until they have been reduced to $250 billion.
· Although the conservatorship has resulted in lower interest rates for consumers, and restored investor confidence, the Treasury and the new CEOs will change the mission and role of GSEs. Without GSEs, mortgage capital eventually will be less predictable and more expensive. This may result in adjustable-rate mortgages becoming the standard loan for home buyers, as well as higher down payment requirements, and the possible disappearance of the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage.
· Most industry professionals support a structure that maintains GSEs in their current countercyclical roles and is urging lawmakers to support continued government involvement in supporting the institutional secondary market. As a result of these concerns, Realtors and others in real estate will be asking Congress to enact legislation to ensure GSEs continue to fulfill their congressional mission of supplying an affordable and stable flow of capital for home loans.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Real Estate Term You Should Know
Down payment made by the purchaser of real estate as evidence of good faith. A deposit or partial payment
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Fun thing to do In the Sarasota/Bradenton Area: Art Not For Sale?
Monday, August 25, 2008
New Listing: 8309 SAILING LOOP, LAKEWOOD RANCH FL. 34202
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
A Simply Green Idea :) Tankless Hot Water Heaters
Storage tank-type water heaters raise and maintain the water temperature to the temperature setting on the tank (usually between 120° -140° F (49° -60° C). Even if no hot water is drawn from the tank (and cold water enters the tank), the heater will operate periodically to maintain the water temperature.
This is due to "standby losses": the heat conducted and radiated from the walls of the tank—and in gas-fired water heaters—through the flue pipe. These standby losses represent 10% to 20% of a household’s annual water heating costs.
Tankless units are common in Japan and Europe. They began appearing in the United States about 30 years ago. Unlike "conventional" storage tank water heaters, tankless water heaters heat water only as it is used, or on demand. A tankless hot water heater has a heating device that is activated by the flow of water when a hot water valve is opened. Once activated, the heater delivers a constant supply of hot water. The output, however, limits the rate of the heated water flow. So consider this option whether you are building or replacing an existing unit.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Real Estate Term You Should Know
The right of a landowner with regard to water rights such as a stream crossing that is adjoining his or her property.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
New Listing: 7516 Abbey Glen, Lakewood Ranch, Florida 34202
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Citizens for Sox Announces Public Meeting
Thursday, July 24, 2008
About Area Neighborhoods: St. Armands
Friday, July 18, 2008
Did You Know?
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
New Listing: 1723 7th Street,SARASOTA, Florida 34236
Monday, June 30, 2008
Did You Know?
Friday, June 27, 2008
About Area Neighborhoods: Longboat Key
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Prudential listings go to Cyberhomes, Google Base, Oodle
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Welcome Mary Beth Hudson and Gregory Hudson
"We are so pleased to be able to join Prudential Palms, continuing our real estate careers with such a high quality Sarasota company," Mary Beth Hudson remarked. "Both Greg and I, as well as our former Avalar sales associates, realize the strength a brand such as Prudential brings. Their marketing programs and international connections, as well as their technological support and infrastructure, is unsurpassed by any company that we have been affiliated with in our 12 years in the real estate business. We are very excited about all the opportunities this affiliation brings."
Monday, June 23, 2008
Our neighbors; the Atlantic Tarpon
Friday, June 20, 2008
Did You Know?
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Fun thing to do In the Sarasota/Bradenton Area
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Real Estate Term You Should Know
A legal proceeding to enforce a lien on such as a mortgage or deed of trust. The process by which secured property is seized and sold to satisfy a debt. A mortgage or involuntary lien must be sold by a court-ordered sale; a sale under a deed of trust may be either by court action or through a private trustee's sale.