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Welcome to SanCap One Source Realty News! |
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Whew! This past month was sure exciting...and historical, if nothing else. We can all hope that we will see some positive changes in the housing markets around the country and in our own backyards. Although the Island market has not been, to the same extent, through what the "other side of the causeway" has, in terms of foreclosures and short sales, it has been nonetheless impacted. We are currently dealing with financing and insurance changes, where the rules change almost on a daily basis. But we continue to move along....
Last month we had the chance to attend the National Association of Realtors "national" Convention which was held in Orlando at the Orange County Convention Center. All I can say is it was HUGE!!! The expo alone took a day and a half to see everything! It was a great opportunity to network (both nationally and internationally) and learn about the latest and greatest in technology and real estate marketing. What a great opportunity..and in our own backyard. We will be employing many new ideas we came home with, to help you buy or sell your next property.
Oh, did I mention we also had one of our biggest closings ever last month? I think the photo says it all...
Realtors Robert Coscia & Sandy Ramseth of SanCap One Source Realty |
| Island News! |
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Running Out for F.I.S.H.
You are most likely wondering what the title to this article is about...
Maybe boating, fishing, how 'bout dinner ?
Here on on the Islands, FISH has a more important meaning than the aforementioned. Why? Because F.I.S.H. is an acronym for Friends In Service Here, a non-profit Island community organization that donates their time, money, food, medical services, and supplies to the needy at no charge. F.I.S.H. operates using volunteers and donations, and is always looking to keep the coffers full.
We are partially excited to try and help this group as we have recently been asked to help organize a half marathon (13.1 miles) on Sanibel! As far as we know, it has never been done before on the islands.
Half marathons typically draw large crowds of runners and walkers. The one we did in Sonoma County in October had 1,500 participants and it was their inaugural one! Each participant will pay (tax deductible?) entry fees to participate.
What better way to help others that can not help themselves but to have able bodied people walk, run, or jog to help those that cannot. This project is in the infancy stages and we are looking for volunteers to give their time, energy, and ideas to help make this a reality.
Just think what fun it would be to view the dolphins as one crosses the new causeway, enjoy the landscaping and quaint homes along the beach drive, how exciting to see all the wildlife as one enters Ding Darling, and in the end, wind the day up at an after the race party at 'Tween Waters.
Please e-mail us with your thoughts or ideas on what we hope will be a great event.
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| Real Estate Tip of the Month |
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Tips for Remodelers
This month will be dedicated to the home remodeler. Home remodeling, you might ask...I though this column was for buyers and sellers. Well, home remodeling is important for many homes that need updating or a bit of sprucing up and/or repairs prior to putting it on the market. In today's market, with such a large inventory, buyers are not only looking for great deals, but ones that are READY to move into without the hassle of doing the work themselves. It is to easy for them to say "next" and move onto one in better condition. So here are some tips for hiring a remodeling contractor.
12 Tips for Hiring a Remodeling Contractor
1. Get at least three written estimates from licensed contractors.
2. Get references and call to check on the work. If possible, go by and visit earlier jobs.
3. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau for complaints or get a recommendation from the local Builders Association.
4. Be sure that the contract states exactly what is to be done and how change orders will be handled. Take time to read your contract carefully. Then read it again.
5. Make as small a down payment as possible so you won't lose a lot if the contractor fails to complete the job.
6. Be sure that the contractor has the necessary permits, licenses, liability insurance, and workman's compensation or you may be liable.
7. Be sure that the contract states when the work will be started, completed and what recourse you have if it isn't. Also remember that in many instances you can cancel a contract within three business days of signing it.
8. Ask if the contractor's workers will do the entire job or whether subcontractors will do parts. If subcontractors are involved, get copies of licenses and liability insurance policies.
9. Get the contractor to indemnify you if work does not meet local building codes, regulations, or if an accident occurs on the job site.
10. Be sure that the contract specifies the contractor will clean up during and after the job, and be responsible for any damage.
11. Guarantee that materials used meet your specifications and local code.
12. Don't make the final payment until you're satisfied with the work.
This is only a portion of what to look out for and should not be construed as legal advice. Should you have any additional questions, consult an attorney. |
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Finally, as this year is quickly coming to an end, we would like to thank each and every one of you for your business, friendship, and support throughout this past year. We are truly blessed to be able to send this newsletter out to all of you, as it is YOU, who keeps us going, even when the going gets tough.
We are looking forward to the coming year and the all the changes it may bring, and will continue to be there for you in whatever capacity you may need us.
Have the Happiest of Holiday Season and a Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
See you next month!
Robert Coscia & Sandy Ramseth
SanCap One Source Realty
"See what 30 Years of Island Living can do for YOU!"
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ISLAND HAPPENINGS
Luminary Festival
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The 24th Annual Luminary Festival put on by our very own local Chamber of Commerce this
Friday, December 5th, on Sanibel and Saturday December 6th, on Captiva.
What a fun night, where locals and visitors will have 3 miles of beautifully lit-up storefronts and restaurants all decked out and ready for folks to stroll in and out of.
Most, if not all, Chamber member businesses take part in this annual holiday celebration.
There will be live music and even a live nativity scene. And, of course, as this party officially kicks off our holiday season, it just wouldn't be the same without Santa, so he'll be there to for some great Kodak Moments!
This is definitely an event for the whole family to enjoy together. It starts right at dusk (around 5:30pm) and goes until 9:00pm"ish". |
| Amazing $$ Reduction!! |
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SANIBEL COTTAGES Luxurious Deluxe Villa. Own a slice of paradise. Gulf views, 1st floor, 2/2, w/spa, tennis, pool & more. Week 40; 1st week in Oct. Fri. to Fri. Offered NOW at $10,000 (was $14K) |
| Broker's Choice |
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Here are some Condo and House properties that the Broker, Robert Coscia, thinks are worth considering. Take a look; they may not be what you are looking for, but then again...after all they are the "Broker's Choice". |
695 Tarpon Bay Rd.
Suite 14
Sanibel, FL 33957
239.472.3334 Direct
www.RealTeamSells.com
info@RealTeamSells.com
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