I just came across this quote and it is very fitting at this time.  We have been having terrible rain storms and flooding in certain areas of Florida.  When you are used to sunny and cheerful most of the time, this kind of rainy weather can be quite depressing.  And, not to mention, make my hair crazy! Don't knock the weather; nine-tenths of the people couldn't start a conversation if it didn't change once in a while. Kin Hubbard Come on over and join Quotes of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow and share some of your favorites!   05/24/2009

The last couple of weeks have been a total blur.  My husband went out of town and I don't know how it happened, but, it seems I need him around to sleep.  It used to not be that way....I, at one time, loved having my big king size bed all to myself.  We have been together 8 years and whether it's one night or 2 weeks, I have a hard time relaxing and sleeping in our bed when he's gone.  Anyway, we have a friend who was doing the Gumball Rally 3000.  It started in California and ended a week later in Miami with many stops along the way.  My husband went along for the ride.  Throughout the journey he met a lot of participants in the rally.  Mind you, it cost quite a bit to enter and there was no big prize at the end for being the first to arrive at any of the destinations.  There were many... 05/12/2009

                 ORLANDO NEW CONTRUCTION in MOUNT DORA- Oakridge at Stoneybrook Hills                                     New homes priced from $224,990 - $351,990 You are sure to feel at home when you visit Lennar's Stoneybrook Hills Community.  Stoneybrook Hills is a gorgeous Resort Style Gated Community and is set upon the quiet, lush green hills of Mount Dora, FL. This community features beautiful oaks and winding streetscapes. GET HELP FINDING ORLANDO NEW CONSTRUCTION HOMES HERE SEARCH FOR ORLANDO NEW CONSTRUCTION HOMES HERE 05/04/2009

 2009 Mount Dora Blues and Wine Festival         ******3 Days of Great Music*******                                                                                                  **Rain or shine!  Bring your chairs and blankets** Lakeside Inn Sample Wines from the best vineyards--Saturday 4-7pm Performing Artists Friday Evening 5-7pm      'Welcome Party' 3-day ticket Only Invitation      T.Scott and DJ Chris Performing Artists Saturday 3-9pm      The Smokin' Torpedos      T.Scott TropRockers w/blues harmonica player      Greg "Fingers" Taylor      Apple Mary Blues      Miss Jacqueline Jones       Performing Artists Sunday 1-5pm      Beautiful Bobby Blackmon      Ruth King Blues      Rent Money Blues Band Jam 3 day tickets on sale/$48 * At the door Saturday $38 * Sunday $18 Call 1-866-... 04/28/2009

Well, the last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind.  If you have read any of my recent posts, you would know that my step-son, Terry II, has been home for a couple of weeks from Iraq.  We all got a big surprise when he showed up a week earlier than expected.  He has been all over the place visiting friends, family, and most importantly, his 2 week old baby girl in New York. (We are in Florida) The pictures of proud dad and baby daughter are priceless and I know it must have been so hard for him to get on the plane and leave her. Terry will be going back to Iraq for at least 6 more months and then there's a chance he will head to Afghanistan.  I am seeing nothing but determination on his young, 21 year old, face to return to the horrible place of uncertainty.  Terry has matured and gro... 04/25/2009

Hope everyone enjoys the day with family and friends.  I just recently posted about my step-son coming home from Iraq.  Well, he was supposed to be here next week, so we were shocked when the doorbell rang yesterday and there he stood. He surprised us all and now our Easter will be complete. Family and friends....what it is all about.         This was the banner my husband had made....we are so proud of him and all of his fellow soldiers.  I know my step-son will be counting the days until he has to go back, but, we are going to try to make his visit as special as we can .  04/12/2009

   It's been confirmed! The income limits in Lake County (and the entire Orlando area) for USDA Guaranteed Rural Development loans will go up to $70,750 for households from 1-4 persons and $92,400 for households from 5-8 persons. No false start anymore folks. We can start taking and processing applications immediately but cannot submit them to the USDA until 04/20. Folks don't take this lightly. I did my preliminary research on this change when it was first announced and discovered EVERY FHA deal I had done would have qualified for RD. Why is this a big deal? RD has no monthly private mortgage insurance and can save our customers an average of $50-$80 per month. Please communicate this to any buyers you had going FHA. In some cases it can mean the difference between qualifying or not, a... 04/10/2009

Don't miss out on this great event!   The Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards is holding a special two day event that will feature arts and crafts by local artisans, incredible live music , along with a selection of seafood, Lakeridge wines, beer and soft drinks.  You will not be disappointed. This Weekend !   19239 U.S.  Hwy 27 North Clermont, FL 34715 Tel:  352-394-8627 or  1-800-768-9463   Saturday, March 14th,     10 - 5 pm Sunday, March 15th,        11 - 5 pm  Parking is free, and there's plenty of seating available, but you're welcome to bring your own chairs and blankets. $2.00 donation will be accepted for outdoor activities to benefit the Autism Society of Greater Orlando. Weekend Live Music Schedule Saturday, 10 am - 1:30 pm - Groove Masters 2 pm - 5 pm - Tory Wynter   Sunday, 11 a... 03/12/2009

Mount Dora Residents and Visitors will enjoy the friendly atmosphere and great value from "Daisy A Day" Florist.  They are full service offering Gift Baskets, Custom Silk Arrangements and much more. Be sure to say hello from Ray and Karen when you stop in.  They are right on Donnellly Street in the heart of beautiful Mount Dora.     Hours Monday thru Friday 9:00AM to 5:00PM Saturday 8:00AM to NoonSunday ClosedBridal Consulations By AppointmentPlease contact usPhone: 352 383-4200 or 800 346-2723Fax: 352 383-4930E-mail: daisyaday@embarqmail.com If you are considering the purchase or sale of a home in the Mount Dora area be sure to contact the Lake County Home Pros.     Karen and Ray Levy 352-636-6579 www.lakecountyhomepros.com Coldwell Banker Camelot Realty Mount Dora, Florida 32757 Click... 03/12/2009

Just a little update on homes sales in Lake County, Florida.  I pulled some statistics from our MLS and here is what I found:          Since January 1, 2009 there have been 541 Residential home sales.                                Here is the breakdown of that number.   541 Residential homes 333 homes sold were priced up to $150,000 184 homes sold were priced between $151,000 - $300,000 24 homes sold were priced between $301,000 - $1,000,000   Now, I went back to last year with the same time frame.  From January 1, 2008 until March 11, 2008 . There were 477 Residential homes sold.                           Here is the breakdown of that number.    477 Residential homes 146 homes sold were priced up to $150,000 266 homes sold were priced between $151,000 - $300,000 62 homes sold were pri... 03/11/2009

MY OFFICE PUT 4 MILLION DOLLARS UNDER CONTRACT IN FEBRUARY.  WE ARE SEEING A NOTICEABLE INCREASE IN BUYER AND SELLER ACTIVITY. THIS WEEK KAREN AND I PUT TWO HOMES UNDER CONTRACT! ALSO, WE LISTED A COUPLE OF MILLION IN SPECIALTY WATERFRONT PROPERTIES. INTERNET ACTIVITY HAS ALSO EXPERIENCED A SHARP INCREASE. If you want to sell or buy a home and are looking for a winning team we wold be happy to provide you with our selling statistics.   Ray Levy CB camelot Realty Mount Dora, FL Have a great day! WWW.LAKECOUNTYHOMEPROS.com Click here for information on how you may qualify for $8000 when you buy your first home!   03/05/2009

Getting your home sold requires the coordination of skilled professionals.  We get results largely because of the skill, care and diligence of the entire team. What I've noticed about a lot of agents is that they try to be all things to all people and they mean well by attempting this.  What usually happens is the customer gets less than expected. Let's say you are facing foreclosure and you don't know what is the best course of action.  Typically we would suggest a trusted attorney that does nothing but help homeowners with these types of challenges. Alternatively you are purchasing a home at a deep discount and want to know what is your best interest rate.  We have three Lenders with at least 10 years of experience. Did you know one of our Lenders has 20 years experience with FHA and ... 03/05/2009

The Lake and Sumter Counties Home Builder's Association Parade of Homes kicks off this weekend, Saturday February 21 with great deals on new, never lived in homes for sale. The great incentives being offered by builders, coupled with the new $8000 tax credit for first time buyers makes it an excellent time to buy. Also remember if you want to have a home built to order, and want to be able to collect on your $8000 credit, you need to start construction within a few months so you can be closed by the November 30, 2009 deadline. Yu can get more information at the Lake/Sumter HBA website here. Look forward to seeing you there, and Happy Parading! Gerry Suarez, Jr. Your FHA Loan Pro! 02/18/2009

  This beautiful waterfront property, constructed of concrete block with high quality finishes, is nestled on a prestigious lake Gertrude a spring fed lake with dramatic, panoramic waterfront vistas, where a peaceful environment and privacy are afforded its owners. The Main House:  This beautiful home features a courtyard entry, from which one can enter the main house on the second level.    As you approach the front door and enter into the 22' living room of the home you will immediately capture a view of the lake through the French doors, which span the rear of the home.  Truly a beautiful vista!  The setting is so beautiful that the residents of the home design the floor plan were every room opens up to the lake view.  This main floor features the formal living and dinning room, whic... 01/29/2009

I Want to Lower My Payment Without Refinancing  I Want to Avoid Foreclosure?  According to RealtyTrac 1 in 54 homes will receive a foreclosure notice Over 50% of the homes financed will be worth less than owed Estimated 2.5 Million Distressed Sales in 2009 Frequently Asked Questions Q. Do you charge a fee in advance? A. NO.      Only applies to Lake County Homeowners A. Not in most cases.  See exclusions below. How can you do this? These are difficult times for our customers.  We don't want to charge a fee unless we can produce results for you. We are part of the local community Only applies to Lake County Homeowners in our service area. Q. This sounds too good to be true.  A. Lenders are under extreme political pressures.  Q. Do I have to miss a payment to qualify? A. No.  Struggling i... 01/24/2009

01/22/2009

  As we look back at 2008 and it's last month, real estate sales seemed to take a very predictable path. Once again there were about 200 single family homes sold (202 to be precise). Once again it was the $100- $140k price range that garnered most of the sales (57 units or 28.2%). The local market seems to be reaching an apparent equilibrium. More homes were sold in the $120-$140k range than any other month in 2008 (39 homes) but it appears these sales are freeing up some move up buyers because December also represented one of the highest months for sales in the $200-$250k range since May '08 (31 homes). These trends are interesting because they clearly show the market is regaining balance. Does this mean we are at the bottom of declining values? It would certainly indicate we are getti... 01/17/2009

Renninger's Antique Extravaganza This is a special opportunity to find a great bargain while visiting Mount Dora, FL Inside Opens at 8AM. Outside 10AM-5PM Friday, 8AM-5PM Saturday and Sunday. Friday $10, Saturday $6, Sunday $420651 US Highway 441, Mount Dora   An antique lover's dream! This event held at Renninger s Twin Markets, is one of the largest gatherings of antique dealers in the south with over 1500 dealers attending. For more information please call (352) 383-8393 or 800-522-3555. To learn more about our area visit: www.lakecountyhomepros.com   01/16/2009

NEW PRICE AT THE LAKES OF MOUNT DORA!!  LOCATION & LUXURY! This lovely custom Scarsborough model located on one of the most beautiful water view lots in the community is loaded w/luxury. From the time you enter the beautiful circular driveway w/pavers you will be impressed.  This custom home was built w/efficiency & quality in mind. This is more than just a 3/2 w/family room. This home is loaded w/upgrades such as the berber carpet & padding, tile, counter tops, ceiling fans, rounded corners and light fixtures just to name a few. The kitchen w/upgraded gold series appliances opens up to an extended family room w/custom blinds. There is also a FL room that you won't want to leave overlooking the water. Light & bright, this home is in an active waterfront community with pool, gorgeous clu... 01/15/2009

NEW FOUR BEDROOM HOME ON LAKE EUSTIS.  BEAUTIFUL HOME WITH OVER 2540 S.F.  SOLD SOLD SOLD... You will enjoy the beautiful colors of the sunsets and the twinkle of city lights off in the distance!   SPECTACULAR LAKE EUSTIS LAKEFRONT HOME! OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE AT COMPETITIVE RATES!! YOU WILL ENJOY THIS WONDERFUL HOME! NUMEROUS UPGRADES:STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, BERBER, TILE, VERANDA FRENCH DOORS, SECURITY SYSTEM & MUCH MORE! 4/3+DEN. Frameless shower enclosure, auto irrigation system, upgraded light fixtures, garage door opener, recessed can lighting in kitchen, tinted windows, picture window in family room, courtyard side entry garage with 12' bump, cultured marble counter tops in master, deluxe cove molding under upper cabinets, crown molding above kitchen cabinets. Price just re... 01/15/2009