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Destin, FL Real Estate News

By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
I am sitting at our local Keller Williams office today in Destin.  Jean Floyd is our local chapter District Vice President for the Women's Council of Realtors and she gathered about 25 women together today to go over our goals for 2009.  In attendance is our State V.P. for the Women's Council of Realtors Nan Harper.  This is such an enthusiastic group and so much fun.  We just broke for lunch provided by our local Wells Fargo Affliate, Ann Buroker and Lorena Spillar.  If you are a woman and have not yet joined the Women's Council of Realtors in your area, please do so today.  You will be glad that you did.  There is a lot of love being shared today and the bonding is wonderful.  These are the future movers and shakers in our community. I served as the local Chapter President last year a...
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
Today was the annual awards banquet for the Emerald Coast of Realtors.  A good friend of mine Jean Floyd who is a Realtor for Keller Williams was named Realtor of the Year.  I was so happy for Jean.  What an honor.  Jean always does so much to give back. Jean receives the highest honor and largest trophy.  We give away Dolphins and Sea Turtles.  The award is actually very heavy.  Also is last year's winner Harry Milsaps, and last year's President for ECAR Cliff Chaplin. Other winners and friends of mine are in this photo.  I expect to be in one of these photos next year.  This year I am the South Walton Director for ECAR newly elected. Dolphin Awards are given out yearly. What does your Board do?
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
Yesterday was my birthday and I wanted to share with you some terrific friends who treated me to lunch and wine.  I had a flight of wines at Chan's Wine World located in Destin.  Best in flight was a 2006 Rustenberg Brampton Cabernet Sauvignon.  Cassis, blackberries, cherries, cigar box and spice characteristics.  Yummy. Here are good friends who know me well, Bobbie Celano from Trustmark Bank and Vicki Hoover from H&S Title and Escrow in Destin, FL. Santa Rosa Beach FL Homes For Sale Are you looking to buy one of the beautiful Santa Rosa Beach FL Waterfront Properties? If you need any help, allow us to be your guide. Our real estate services cover Santa Rosa Beach and the surrounding communities, as well as the Rosemary Beach Florida Real Estate area. Our team of agents work hard so yo...
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By Wendy Rulnick, "It's Wendy... It's Sold!"
(Rulnick Realty, Inc.)
Wendy Rulnick, Destin Florida real estate broker, was recently interviewed by Kiplinger Personal Finance magazine.  In the February 2009 edition, Kiplinger describes foreclosure avoidance and short sales.  Some of Rulnick's Destin real estate clients, who recently participated in a short sale, had their story told.  The homeowners plight unfolded from buying at the top of the Emerald Coast real estate market to their mortgage interest rate hike and personal job loss.  Rulnick helped the sellers complete a short sale on their home, which cancelled about $100,000 in mortgage debt.  The Kiplinger article stresses "Short sales are best conducted by an experienced real estate agent who can negotiate the obstacles imposed by lenders or investors."  Rulnick provided much of the information re...
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By Wendy Rulnick, "It's Wendy... It's Sold!"
(Rulnick Realty, Inc.)
Destin Florida Real Estate - 2008 Market Summary The Destin Florida real estate market had a rocky road in 2008.  There are some glimmers of hope, but continued signs of price declines.  In summary: 1.  In Destin, the "% Sold/List" (Sold to List Price Ratio) dropped from 90% to an average of 84% by the end of the year.  The ratio bounced around a lot during the last 12 months, but the drop to 84% may or may not be part of a trend.  We'll look at this in coming months. 2. The average sale price for Destin real estate dropped from $520,000 to $406,000 in the past year. Again, this figure may not necessarily be a trend, as the average sold price was as high as $637,000 in June. 3.  The median sale price dropped in Destin from $350,000 to $263,000.  Note the "median" statistic may be more i...
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By Wendy Rulnick, "It's Wendy... It's Sold!"
(Rulnick Realty, Inc.)
When I wrote "When is a Contract NOT a Contract?" it stirred up over 40 comments and some controversy.  The crux of the matter is that many Destin Florida listing agents are accepting more than one "primary" contract on a Short Sale listing.  There is a prevalent belief in the Emerald Coast real estate market and others, that a contract is "not" a contract despite being signed by both buyer and seller, until the bank approves the price and short sale. Thus, the thinking goes, the Short Sale seller is not truly obligated to the buyer who wrote the offer, and can simply sign multiple contracts with parity.  Because of this misconception, many buyer's agents also think release and cancellations are not needed when buyers "walk" prior to bank approval.  Also, the practice of accepting more...
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By Casey Joiner, Scenic Sotheby's International Realty
(Scenic Sotheby's International Realty www.caseyjoiner.com)
Great selection of music starts when "Blast from the Past" hits the stage @ 7.  Mustang Sally then hits the stage @ 9 to bring in the New Year.  There will also be a fireworks show.  The events start @7 and last until the New Year @ 12.  All festivities and fireworks will be located in the Village of Baytowne Wharf.  Get there early and expect to take the Tram Shuttle service to the Village from one of the parking lots by the entrance.  See you there!
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By Casey Joiner, Scenic Sotheby's International Realty
(Scenic Sotheby's International Realty www.caseyjoiner.com)
Please take the time to enjoy a concert under the stars every Wednesday night at The Village of Baytowne Wharf located in Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort.  The music selection varies from week to week but the venue stays the same.  The seating is on the center lawn of the village.  So bring a blanket or chair and enjoy an outdoor event with the family.  Every Wednesday from 6pm-8pm.
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
The retailers in Destin expect record crowds today at the malls.  Destin Commons and also The Silver Sands Outlet Factory Mall in Destin are expected to be even busier today than before Christmas.  With prices with 50-70% off almost everywhere, those gift cards will go further this year than in year's past. Personally, I will be on the golf course today.  It is 74 out right now with a high of 81 today and clear skies.  I couldn't have ordered better weather and can't wait to try out my new Taylor #5 rescue club that I got for Christmas. I hope that all of you have had a wonderful holiday break and will have a wonderful weekend. Warmly yours, Kelly Santa Rosa Beach FL Homes For Sale Are you looking to buy one of the beautiful Santa Rosa Beach FL Waterfront Properties? If you need any hel...
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By Casey Joiner, Scenic Sotheby's International Realty
(Scenic Sotheby's International Realty www.caseyjoiner.com)
Saturday December 20th  10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Open house at 3511 Arrowhead Point in Sandestin's prestigious Burnt Pine.  This Custom Home was a 2007 Parade of Homes Winner. This open floor plan was designed especially for entertaining or welcoming the family for that yearly reunion.  From the 10' Cedar entry door to teh top of the line appliances and chef's dream kitchen, you will fall in love!  Complete outdoor living with heated pool/spa, fireplace, and kitchen.  This lakefront home even has spectacular views of the golf course!  This home is the perfect example of "Less is More." Builder warranty. View other homes at www.compassrealtyfl.com
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By Jeanne Fillingame
(Fillingame & Associates)
Prices are hitting all time lows right now! Our market is full of short sale opportunities....that is the morgage holders/lenders are willing to take less then they are owed just to avoid the foreclosure process. It's a slow process so you must be patient for an answer. I recently closed a short sale that took 5 months to complete but well worth the wait...bank took $100,000 less than the mortgage and it's my understanding they forgave the debt shortfall for the owner. He saved his credit. If you don't want to wait, a search for anxious sellers may be the better way to find that great buy. Sellers may even agree to sell at auction to produce a quicker sale. Limited buyer pool makes it a great time to bid and win a great property at a great price. High inventory is driving the prices dow...
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
There are 5 Comedy Movies out right now.  We could all use a good laugh now and then.  Comedy is good for the soul. Take time to view one or more of these recommended funny movies over the holidays. Four Christmases PG-13 When their plans for an exotic vacation fall apart, unmarried couple Brad (Vince Vaughn) and Kate (Reese Witherspoon) must spend Christmas Day trudging back and forth to a quartet of family get-togethers. While Brad counts the hours till he can escape the onslaught of crazy relatives, Kate begins to wonder about her own choices and ponders whether her family members are so crazy after all. When their plans for an exotic vacation fall apart, unmarried couple Brad (Vince Vaughn) and Kate (Reese Witherspoon) must spend Christmas Day trudging back and forth to a quartet of...
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
Due to the economic slowdown in Destin and lack of the area's visitors several area restaurants have closed their doors.  Most notable was Criolla's on Hwy. 30A.  Oh how I loved that restaurant.  I remember a wonderful mean there with my mother who was here on vacation many years ago and it was the best meal and service that I had ever experienced.  It quickly became a favorite, but chef and owner Johnny Earles closed his doors and opened up a real estate office instead.  I will miss Criolla's which found National fame along the Gulf Coast.  Now chef Tim Crehan has closed his doors to the Beach Walk Restaurant, Copper Grill and Bluz Grill and Bar.  There were 100 employees let go from the closing of these three restaurants.  Tim hopes to reopen next year when business and visitors retur...
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
This is where you will not find me this weekend in Destin at the Redneck Christmas Celebration.  The celebration features cow patty bingo, a mullet toss, and redneck fishing contests.  Prizes include a can of sardines, a golden frying pan, and a bag of pork rinds. A parade this afternoon features about 100 floats.  I prefer to stay in today and watch football.  Have a nice Sunday. Santa Rosa Beach FL Homes For Sale Are you looking to buy one of the beautiful Santa Rosa Beach FL Waterfront Properties? If you need any help, allow us to be your guide. Our real estate services cover Santa Rosa Beach and the surrounding communities, as well as the Rosemary Beach Florida Real Estate area. Our team of agents work hard so you don't have to, and we would be happy to help you find your dream home...
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By Clayton Bonjean, Broker | Owner | MBA
(Mainsail Realty Company)
Destin Florida Foreclosures | Short Sales | REO | Bank Owned   Search Foreclosures and Short Sales in Destin, Hwy 30A, Sandestin, Santa Rosa Beach, WaterColor, Rosemary Beach Florida and surrounding areas by clicking the link below. DESTIN FLORIDA FORECLOSURE SEARCH - CLICK HERE   This article contains useful information about Short Sales, Foreclosures, and REO "Bank Owned" properties.  WHY ATTEMPT A SHORT SALE?  A short sale is an attempt for a borrower (seller) to avoid a foreclosure by selling the property for less than the amount of the loan.  The borrower (seller) will request that the bank forgive the deficiency and it is less damaging to their credit score than a foreclosure.  The bank is often open to this because it can cost them less money in the long run than the foreclosure ...
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
Today is my last day as the 2008 President for the local chapter of the Women's Council of Realtors here in Destin, FL.  It has been a great ride with many people to thank along the way.  We have had an incredible year with fantastic speakers, education, and meeting new friends in the business.  We have used each other for support through deaths in our families or announcements of new babies on their way.  We support each other when any of our members lose a job and assist them in finding new ones.  All of this through this little organization called the Women's Council of Realtors.  It is the most supportive group of Realtors and Affliates one could ever associate with in the business.  It has been my pleasure to have served during this past year as the President.  Here is a photo of t...
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
Today is my last day as the 2008 President for the local chapter of the Women's Council of Realtors here in Destin, FL.  It has been a great ride with many people to thank along the way.  We have had an incredible year with fantastic speakers, education, and meeting new friends in the business.  We have used each other for support through deaths in our families or announcements of new babies on their way.  We support each other when any of our members lose a job and assist them in finding new ones.  All of this through this little organization called the Women's Council of Realtors.  It is the most supportive group of Realtors and Affliates one could ever associate with in the business.  It has been my pleasure to have served during this past year as the President.  Here is a photo of t...
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By Kelly Klein, "Doing Great Things Today to Improve Tomorrow"
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Pen Fed Realty)
Are these people nuts?  Not sure what you did last evening, but here in Destin, FL shoppers were lined up before midnight just waiting to get into the stores for the mad rush for shopping.  I prefer to miss all of that and shop online.  What did you do?  Were you in the madness? I drove by the Silver Sands Factory Outlet today on my way to lunch and there was not a parking space to be found.  Looks like the economy at least here in Destin is flourishing. Hope you had a nice holiday! Kelly
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By Josh McLean
(Clay and Company,LLC)
Five Star Beach Properties' hand-picked beach side properties are a significant step up in luxury accommodations. At Five Star Beach Properties we strive to give you the best in convenience, location, and we consider personal service to be our hallmark. There is no office to check into, you simply proceed directly to your property and let your vacation begin. Our staff will meet you at the door and gladly answer any questions you have. We will gladly make any arrangements for you before you even arrive to the area. Looking for dinner recommendations and arrangements? Would you like groceries there when you arrive? Maybe a spa treatment or fishing excursion? If you can imagine it, Five Star Beach Properties will take care of it for you. Come enjoy the most beautiful beaches in the countr...
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