Full Golf Membership Included!

New To The Market!

 

Naples Florida ~ Bundled Golf

Move right into this immaculate single family home and start to enjoy the ultimate bundled golf lifestyle right away! There's nothing to do but bring your suitcase! Turnkey furnished, right down to the electronics and artwork! The home has been meticulously maintained by the original owner, and offers 3 spacious bedrooms plus a den and 3 full baths plus a 1/2 bath. The Manchester III floorplan is one of the most popular plans in the Rutenberg portfolio!

 

 

Professionally decorated in soft neutrals, the home offers both a formal living and dining room, as well as a casual room and breakfast nook. The kitchen is bright & cheerful and opens to the outdoors with a large pass-thru window! The kitchen also features an island, pantry and lots of storage! Most of the home open up to the large screened porch and sparkling heated below ground pool! The lanai is perfect for entertaining and al fresco dining!

Situated on the 3rd fairway, the views are spectacular! You are just minutes to all the downtown Naples amenities, restaurants, galleries, and of course, the beach! If you are hard to please, then this is a home you need to consider!

 

Call The Harris-Peppe Team today for details about this superb offering. 1-239-370-0574 Aggressively priced at $599,900. to encourage offers. We look forward to hearing from you soon, and we hope to earn your future Naples Real Estate business.

 

Make it a GREAT day,

 

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 

 

 

 

 

#Naplesrealestate #harrispeppeteam #NaplesFlorida

There's Something For Everyone In Naples Florida!

One of Naples Best Values!

 

 

Verona Walk ~ Naples Florida

Immaculately maintained 3 bedroom and 3 full baths, rarely lived in townhome, located in the award winning neighborhood of Verona Walk! Named "Community of the Year" for the entire State of Florida, this amenity rich neighborhood has it all! Features include 24/7 manned gatehouse, over 20 miles of jogging and bike trails, a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness facility, children's play area, lighted tennis courts, bocce ball, basketball and pickleball! Additionally, the Town Center has a restaurant, a bank, post office, travel agency, gas station, car wash, library, ballroom, card rooms, computer center and a full-time activities director! It's a great place to live!

 

This is the Florida lifestyle you've been dreaming about!

 

The home itself boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, each with their own bath and walk-in closets! The open design gourmet kitchen has granite &stainless appliances and a breakfast bar that opens to the Great Room! Two private balconies overlook the tranquil lake, and the back lanai is so private and it's screened with access directly from your own private 2- car garage!

 

What more could you ask for? Low fees? Yes! For less than $3,500 in HOA fees annually you can enjoy all the amenities Verona Walk offers! Did you say pets? Yes, pets are allowed! No approval needed and big doggies are welcome!

 

Call Sam Wells at The Harris-Peppe Team today to get details on this wonderful opportunity. 1-239-404-4889 [direct]. ~ Asking only $309,000. Once you see this super buy you'll understand why we think it's one of the very best values in Naples Florida!

 

"There's something for everyone in Naples Florida!"

 

Thank you, and make it a great day,

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

#NaplesRealEstate #NaplesFlorida

There's Something For Everyone In Naples Florida!

One of Naples Best Values!

 

 

Verona Walk ~ Naples Florida

Immaculately maintained 3 bedroom and 3 full baths, rarely lived in townhome, located in the award winning neighborhood of Verona Walk! Named "Community of the Year" for the entire State of Florida, this amenity rich neighborhood has it all! Features include 24/7 manned gatehouse, over 20 miles of jogging and bike trails, a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness facility, children's play area, lighted tennis courts, bocce ball, basketball and pickleball! Additionally, the Town Center has a restaurant, a bank, post office, travel agency, gas station, car wash, library, ballroom, card rooms, computer center and a full-time activities director! It's a great place to live!

 

This is the Florida lifestyle you've been dreaming about!

 

The home itself boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, each with their own bath and walk-in closets! The open design gourmet kitchen has granite &stainless appliances and a breakfast bar that opens to the Great Room! Two private balconies overlook the tranquil lake, and the back lanai is so private and it's screened with access directly from your own private 2- car garage!

 

What more could you ask for? Low fees? Yes! For less than $3,500 in HOA fees annually you can enjoy all the amenities Verona Walk offers! Did you say pets? Yes, pets are allowed! No approval needed and big doggies are welcome!

 

Call Sam Wells at The Harris-Peppe Team today to get details on this wonderful opportunity. 1-239-404-4889 [direct]. ~ Asking only $309,000. Once you see this super buy you'll understand why we think it's one of the very best values in Naples Florida!

 

"There's something for everyone in Naples Florida!"

 

Thank you, and make it a great day,

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

#NaplesRealEstate #NaplesFlorida

What is One of the Oldest Real Estate websites in Naples Florida?

THE HISTORY OF NaplesRealEstate.com

 

 

 NaplesRealEstate.com is one of the oldest domain names in the industry. Originally developed in 1997, it has become one of the most widely used websites for gathering real estate related information in Southwest Florida.  Nearly 20 years ago, when Chip & Michele purchased this site, they knew that the Internet would have a revolutionary impact on the way consumers would conduct business.  Their forward thinking proved most successful.  Today approximately 60% of their buyer-controlled sales come from leads generated directly from this site.  This is an unprecedented statistic. 

 

NaplesRealEstate.com is not just a real estate website; in addition to doing complete real estate searches for Naples and the entire State of Florida, you can also link directly to many other popular and useful local websites.  You can link to government sites, private and public schools, airport arrivals and departures, movie theater schedules, shopping, restaurants, marinas and golf courses, just to name a few.  Because of these popular links, many of Chip & Michele’s customers and friends have made NaplesRealEstate.com a favorite, referring to it regularly. According to The National Association of Realtors, 92% of buyers begin their real estate searches online.  Few real estate companies can boast about their success online like The Harris-Peppe Team.

 

Over the years, The Harris-Peppe Team has kept pace with the changes and continue to maintain their Google 1^st page ranking through various search engine optimization and engagement of social media and blogging. NaplesRealEstate.com paves the way, and today you are encouraged to register and make NaplesRealEstate.com one of your favorites, too!

 

We are currently updating and redeveloping our website for the first time in 12 years. We welcome any suggestions you may have to improve its user friendliness and content! Click here to learn more about NaplesRealEstate.com and please follow us on Facebook and our other social media sites.

Thank you, and make it a GREAT day,

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 

 

What is the Best New Listing in Old Naples?

Three Short Blocks to the Beach!

 

What is the best new listing in Old Naples you ask? Well, let me tell you about this charming first floor, end-unit, 2 bedroom garden apartment located just 3 short blocks to the pristine beaches of the Gulf-of-Mexico. The wonderful downtown attractions on Naples main street, 5th Avenue South, are at your back door! You are only 1 block from the shops and galleries, the world-class restaurants, live theater, parks and so much more! The vacation starts here! This is the address you've been waiting to find, with all the bells and whistles already in place. Recently updated, the kitchen and two baths are top-of-the-line, with finishes that you would normally find in much more expensive Naples condos! We would be happy to send you additional information, a color brochure or a virtual tour of the property! Email me at blogger@naplesrealestate.com

 

 

Other luxury appointments include: impact glass, tiles floors that resemble wood, granite, stainless appliances, new fans and lighting, and custom window treatment. The home comes turnkey furnished, so all you have to do is show up to start living the Naples dream!

 

Both bedrooms are spacious and light & bright and feature walk-in closets!

 

 

This Naples condo also features a private washer/dryer, additional outside storage unit and assigned parking. You really cannot beat the value, and if you are looking to lease the property, the investment factor can't be overlooked. Similar condos in the complex have commanded $5,000. per month during season.

 

If you would like to preview this wonderful new listing, please call The Harris-Peppe Team with The Coldwell Banker Previews office today! 1-239-370-0574

 

We look forward to hearing from you soon, and hope to earn your future Naples Real Estate business.

 

Sincerely,

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 

 

 

 

On This Memorial Day...

"I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers" ~ Ephesians 1:16

"On this Memorial Day"...The Harris Peppe Team at NaplesRealEstate.com would like to invite you to join us as we honor the brave men and women who have given their lives so selflessly over many generations which allows us the privilege to live in a country committed to freedom. It is our deepest prayer that we live a life worthy of their sacrifice.

As you go about the activities of this weekend; celebrating with a picnic, a family reunion, or a backyard barbecue, I only ask that you will take the time to honor all those who served, especially those who have given their lives so that we can all pursue a life of happiness and free choices. A prayer of gratitude to all those who stand guard today...wherever you are in the world, please come home soon, safe and sound.

 

Let us also not forget to offer up a prayer to those who have lost a loved one...the families who mourn their lost heroes must be comforted by our nation's commitment to freedom! Amen.

 

 

"Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price,

bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe,

to assure the survival and success of liberty."

 

                                           ~John F. Kennedy

 

 

Thank you, and God Bless America,


The Naples Real Estate Blogger

Naples Florida New Listing

Welcome Home to Collier's Reserve

The Harris-Peppe Team has been selected to market this spectacular residence situated on nearly a half-acre homesite with expansive views of pristine lakes and the beautiful Arthur Hills golf course.

Collier's Reserve offers the perfect country club lifestyle in a natural setting; The Cocohatchee River meanders through the community and provides a lovely setting for kayakers and nature enthusiasts. Fitness buffs can find a yoga class, use the Har-Tru tennis courts or the lap pool, and the state-of-the-art fitness center is one of the best in Naples! Your dining choices include the elegant Cocohatchee Room, located in the plantation-style clubhouse, or the more relaxed atmosphere of the Boathouse restaurant with a casual menu and peaceful river views.

 

The many luxury finishes of this special home include polished Jerusalem tile, custom woodworking, rich faux ceilings, impact glass and spacious walls for displaying large art.  

 

 

The gourmet kitchen features a pasta pot faucet,

6 burner gas stove, a waterfall backsplash and a huge island.

 

 

 

The Great Room has a wetbar and custom high-end built-in electronics, pocket sliders leading out to the enormous screened lanai which boasts a summer kitchen, a fireplace, and a  heated pool and spa; this home is wonderful for entertaining!

 

The elegant 1st floor master suite has a luxurious bath, large closets and a separate sitting room. The gentleman's den is covered in warm grass cloth, book shelves plus a wet bar and fridge! The 2nd floor has easy access with an elevator that opens to a gathering room, perfect for a family or visiting guests. Both bedrooms upstairs have a private bath and walk-in closets; a second floor porch with breathtaking views and a Juliet balcony that adds to the architectural details of this fabulous Naples property.  Offered at $1,675,000. Please call 1-239-370-0574 for a private showing and club membership details.

 

Thank you and make it a GREAT day,

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

  

Congratulations Coldwell Banker 5th Avenue South in Naples Florida

It's Official!

Congratulations Naples Coldwell Banker Previews Office!

 



The Coldwell Banker 5th Avenue South office, led by managing broker Nancy MacDonald, became the very first real estate firm in SW Florida to become a Blue Zones Project today! More than half the sales agents and the entire staff along with Dr. Allen Weiss, CEO of the Naples Community Hospital Healthcare Systems attended the ribbon cutting [click on photo below to enlarge photo]. I blogged about the Blue Zones Story last year [see blog post below].  My family has embraced the philosophy: To make healthier choices in order to live longer happier lives.  I've talked about it with my friends and co-workers, and together we made the commitment to become a Blue Zones Project; the very first business on 5th Avenue South to achieve this designation!  I am so proud of my colleagues for embracing this with all their hearts and souls! Becoming a Blue Zones Project seemed like the perfect fit for our real estate office, after all, we are Coldwell Banker...We lead the nation in everything related to homeownership. What better than to embrace a concept that helps us live longer, healthier lives. We don't sell houses, we sell homes, we sell lifestyles, and we are so blessed to sell in beautiful Naples Florida, recently recognized as the "Happiest & Healthiest place to live in America"! #GoBlue #ThisIsHome #HomeRocks #ColdwellBanker

 

 

 

Thank you for reading about this worthwhile mission. Here is my post from last year explaining the Blue Zones Story in more detail:

 

Thursday, October 29, 2015

What is Blue Zones?

 

We are on a mission to help people Live Longer, Better Lives!

 

The Blue Zones Story

 

What is a "Blue Zone"? Well, if you are living in Naples Florida, you will soon be hearing this term a lot. By definition, Blue Zones is a concept used to identify a demographic and or geographic area of the world where people live measurably longer lives. There are five regions in the world where residents live longer, healthier lives; they are: Sardinia Italy, The islands of Okinawa Japan, Loma Linda California, the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica, and Icaria Greece. In a study conducted in 2009 it was found that 1 out of 3 people on the island of Icaria live well into their 90's and have about a 20% lower rate of cancer, 50% lower rates of heart disease, and virtually no dementia!

In 2004, Dan Buettner teamed up with National Geographic and the world's best longevity researchers to identify pockets around the world where people live longer, better lives. In these Blue Zones people reach the age of 100 at rates 10 times greater than the United States. After identifying these zones, the team of scientists scrutinized the lifestyle characteristics and found all Blue Zones residents shared nine specific characteristics. These are referred to as: Power 9. Dan's book, The Blue Zones, has been a big hit, and its success has prompted many to ask, 'How can we in prove the health and longevity of the United States'? You can watch a short YouTube video by clicking on this link here: Blue Zones

These are the  Power 9 'secrets' to a long, healthy life:

1. Move Naturally: Take the stairs rather than the elevator, stand rather than sit, park far away from the store entrance. Contrary to common thinking, those who exercise do not actually live healthier lives, but those who 'move naturally' do.

2. Purpose: Knowing your sense of purpose is worth up to 7 years of extra life expectancy! Can you sum up your life's purpose in one or two sentences if asked?

3. Down Shift: Stress leads to chronic illness and inflammation and is associated with most major age-related diseases.

4. The 80% Rule: Most of us over eat. This rule suggests you stop eating when you feel no more than 80% full!

5. Plant Slant: Always favor plant-based foods over meats.

6. Wine: Yes, you heard it right! Having one or two glasses of wine in the evening, preferably with a companion, has health benefits.

7. A Sense of Belonging: It is confirmed, people who attend a faith-based service 4 times per month add many years to their lives.

8. Loved One First: Centenarians keep aging parents and grandparents nearby, are in a committed loving relationship, and invest emotionally in their children. 

9. The Right Tribe: The world's longest-living people chose or were born into social circles that support healthy behaviors.

 

Now, imagine if we [Naples Florida] could make small, incremental changes to the way we live and in doing so dramatically improve the well-being of our entire community---Well, we can, and we are! I suggest you log onto the Blue Zones website. You will be excited to read that Naples Florida is currently a Blue Zones project. I recently took The True Happiness Test, also offered on this website. Links are also available to printable versions of the "Check Lists", and great recipes, and sources to help you become more involved.

I am so excited and proud to be living in a town like Naples Florida that is committed to helping its citizens lead longer, better lives! For more information on the local Blue Zones project and to read our community assessment, visit Collier County Blue Zones . 

Please contact me directly if you would like me to send you the Blue Zones Personal Checklist. 1-239-250-4370

Thank you, and make it a great day,

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 

Pelican Bay....Naturally!

Naples Florida New Listing!

Welcome home to this fabulous coach home in Pelican Bay

 

The Harris-Peppe Team presents our newest listing in Naples Florida!

 

Impeccably maintained and extremely private first floor end unit, this beautiful residence includes 3 very spacious bedrooms and 2 luxurious baths.  Its many features include a 2-car garage and an over sized great room which open to the 26' lanai with built-in grill. The welcoming courtyard greets you with a magnificent arbor laden with flowering bushes and tropical foliage.

 

This is what true Naples living is all about!

The open concept great room has a kitchen pass-thru and a very spacious dining area with wonderful ceiling details!

 

The Pointe is a gated luxury enclave boasting lovely architectural details and a spectacular pool, spa and clubhouse! 

 

The Pointe is within very close proximity to all the wonderful Pelican Bay amenities including 42 acres of parks, boardwalks to the beach, 3 beachfront restaurants, tennis, fitness center and miles of walking paths! This is the only golf community located directly on the Gulf of Mexico in all of SW Florida. There are over 500 acres of preserved mangroves, and the balance of residences and nature is evident throughout the community. Call us today to preview this very special home, or click here to view the virtual tour: Pointe at Pelican Bay Naples Florida 1-239-370-0574

 

Thank you and make it a GREAT day!

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 

 

*click on photos to enlarge

4 Bedroom Pool Home!

This Week's Featured Home in Naples Florida!



Wonderful opportunity to buy a 4 bedroom home located in one of the most established and well-kept neighborhoods in Naples. Very close to downtown and convenient to everything; shopping, restaurants, golf and the beach! Situated on a quiet street in Lakewood Country Club. 

 

The peaceful backyard is private and lush with tropical plants, and the pool deck is spacious and ready for year-round enjoyment. Access to the lanai from the living room and master suite through large sliding doors open up the living space from inside to the outdoors perfectly.

 

The cheerful kitchen was redone with white cabinets and opens to the casual dining room. There are so many nice features about this home; you really have to see it to appreciate the value. Aggressively priced to encourage offers at only $339,900. Call today for your private tour of this fabulous single family residence! 1-239-370-0574

 

 

Thank you and make it a GREAT day!

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

Naples Waterfront Best Buy!

Naples Florida Direct Gulf Access

Front Row Seats to the Best Show in Town!



Night View of Naples Bay

Beautifully updated, this contemporary villa boasts 2 spacious BRs plus a den, 2 full baths, a deeded boat dock and a private garage!  The wide open floor plan takes full advantage of the natural light and offers views on three sides...you'll feel like you are living in a tree house! The private end unit condo has patios, terraces and decks overlooking the lush tropical gardens and offers views of the boats and breathtaking Naples Bay! The villa also features impact glass plus clear storm shutters on all Anderson windows. The liberal pet policy even allows tenants to have a pet!  You are a short stroll to the Naples Bay Resort where Elective Memberships are available with only a $500. initiation fee and monthly dues starting at just $333. The resort-style pools include a lap pool, a lazy river and an adult only pool! The membership also offers tennis, a world-class spa and a magnificent fitness facility! Call now for complete details about what we believe to be  Naples Florida's Best Waterfront Value!

Picture Perfect Great Room

Exotic Granite and Stainless appliances

Romantic Master Suite

Private Patios and Tropical Gardens

Please call any member of The Harris-Peppe Team for your opportunity to preview this wonderful villa!  Few people get to say they live on Naples Bay...maybe this dream home can be yours! Aggressively priced to encourage offers at $625,000! 1-239-370-0574

"Selling beautiful homes to wonderful people in paradise since 1981!"

Thank you, and make it a GREAT day,

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

Naples Real Estate Activity

The 2016 Season Indicating Stability in the Market

According to our data, combined with information released in a recent article from The Naples Area Board of Realtors, we are seeing a stabilization in the local real estate market. Several factors are used to determine a "balanced" market; a market with equal "fairness" to both buyers and sellers. Typical of a balanced market is an equal number of homes and condos for sale in any geographic area compared to how many have sold in that same area over the past 12 months. Today's total residential inventory in Naples equates to approximately a 6.2 month absorption rate across the board [some areas are higher, some are lower]. Current total inventory has risen approximately 13% year-over-year, the highest numbers of listings we've seen since April 2013. Many sellers are beginning to put their properties on the market, because it's the first time in a long time they can actually see themselves making a profit...giving buyers a better selection than they've had in years. And although pending sales are down when compared to January 2015, many people are forgetting to take into consideration the rise in inventory in all the new construction communities, which are selling like hotcakes! Likely, there are as many if not more sales,  just not re-sales as calculated by the multiple listing system.

 

Here is an overall market summary:

• Every price range showed a double digit increase in inventory except the under $300,000 segment.
• The 500,000- $1 million segment experienced the highest increase at 26%, typical of upward pressure prices.
• pending sales decreased January 2015 vs. January 2016 23%, again likely due to the increase in sales in the new construction home communities.
• pending sales in condominiums in Naples in the $1 million- $2 million range increased significantly, 14%.
• Closed sales for the calendar year ending January 2016 decreased 1%
• Median closed sale prices for the calendar year ending January 2016 increased 13%
• Average days on the market year over year decreased 14%

We are optimistically planning on March and April being two excellent months. Many buyers we have worked with are already planning their return trips to Naples later this spring to make purchases. We have also found many of the buyers we are working with deciding on new construction communities rather than buying resale, older homes in the established neighborhoods. Additionally, we have found quite a few foreign owners deciding to sell, adding to the increase in inventory. Our internet inquiries are up year-over-year 23%. All indications of a great season!

For information about a particular neighborhood, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. 1-239-370-0574

Thank you, and make it a GREAT day!

The Naples Real Estate Blogger


*data derived from the Naples MLS and the NABOR Press Release 2/19/16

New Listing in Naples Florida

Walk to The Beach Plus a Separate Guest House!

 

Come see why we believe this lushly landscaped retreat is one of the finest residences in the charming beachside community of Coquina Sands. Perfectly situated on .6 acres, this captivating home features an expansive 40' pool, over-sized patio and entertaining area, beautiful gardens as well as a private 1 bedroom guesthouse. The home boasts 3 spacious bedrooms, a gourmet cook's dream kitchen, 18' soaring ceilings and wonderful wall space for all your art.  Best of all, this contemporary masterpiece is just a short stroll to the sugar sand beaches at Lowdermilk Park and just minutes to all the downtown Naples fine shoppes and restaurants. Offered at $3,850,000. call today to see why this is one of Naples best luxury homes for the price and location!  

 



A Serene Zen Retreat

 

For more information about this property, or to obtain other condo and home listings in the Coquina Sands area, please contact the resident specialist; The Harris-Peppe Team's Gina Fischer. She has made this community her home for nearly 30 years. She will share with you her knowledge and love for the area as well as arrange a private showing of this remarkable home! Call her today at 1-239-564-5475

 

Thank you, and make it a great day!

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 

This is Why I sell Real Estate...

It's About The People Who Touch Your Heart

 

The story of The Green Robe [quoted below] was written several years ago...I am re-posting it today because I just listed Joy's home...I sold Joy and her husband their home in 1992. Joy passed away suddenly over a year ago and I've stayed in touch with her husband, as I always kept in touch with her...When I got to their home the other day to go over the paperwork with him, he had a nice stack of notes, cards and papers on his desk neatly bound together. He said, "Do you know what this stack of papers is? This is our Michele pile..." Over the years they kept every note and card and letter I had sent to them--I couldn't believe it...and so, ask me why I sell real estate? It is all about the relationships I've made along the way...it's about touching people's hearts...some of the greatest friendships in my life have come from this calling...

"Over 20 years ago I sold a home in Naples to a wonderful couple...Joy was a teacher....we clicked immediately. We've stayed in touch over the years...Sometimes nothing more than just a few of my 'staying in touch' marketing postcards, the annual Christmas card or an occasional personal note to let her know I was thinking of her. When we did have an opportunity to reconnect, it was always like no time had gone by since our last encounter. I've sold over 1,000 homes in the past 30 years...to a lot of wonderful couples, but Joy and her husband's purchase was one that always stands out in my mind--it was such an enjoyable transaction! One of the most delightful aspects of the sale was meeting "Dottie", Joy's mom, who already lived in a condo in Naples. Keep in mind, this was over 20 years ago, and so to this real estate gal who was then in her mid-30's, and who has never been one to even try to guess a woman's age, I simply suspected Dottie was at least old enough to collect social security. She was deeply caring and so happy to be involved in the process--She wanted to see the homes Joy and her husband had narrowed down to, and be part of the excitement that her daughter and son-in-law were experiencing buying their first Naples home! She was even at the closing!

Recently Joy called me--we had not spoken in years. She left a sweet message, but before I returned the call I did something I don't think I've ever done before--I search the local paper's obituaries online...It was there that I found what I sadly suspected was the reason for Joy's phone call, her beautiful mom had passed away. Joy wanted me to know that her mom had told her a long time ago, "someday when something happens to me I don't want anyone else but Michele to sell my condo."

~Later that week I met Joy at her mom's home--she had already gone through much of Dottie's things...Together we walked through the bright and cheerful apartment, and I could just feel Dottie's spirit. I made a few suggestions on what needed to be done before we put it on the market, and I told her not to worry, I would get back in there myself and have the place staged...A few more things ended up in boxes, some knick-knacks, books, and some clothes that were headed to the local shelter...Almost all the personal things save this one lovely green silk robe hanging in the closet. It didn't look like it had ever been worn--Joy confirmed that it hadn't and when she saw how I admired it, she asked me if I wanted it. She and her husband had bought it for Dottie--'guess she felt it wasn't practical'--made me remember when my grandma died and all the pretty robes and pajamas that my mom had given her over the years were still wrapped in tissue paper. "Of course I'll take it, are you sure? Oh my God Joy, it's beautiful!"

Well, yesterday was the closing. Some really nice people bought Dottie's little condo, which made us feel very good. It rained like crazy yesterday...Joy and I held back tears at the closing thinking that the rain drops were Dottie's happy tears...It was really awesome to tell the closing agent how far back we all go and how I came to get this listing...and I came away from that closing with an incredible feeling of contentment. It is good to be reminded sometimes that what we do each day has nothing at all to do with contracts or closings...It's about people who touch your heart...it's about a green silk robe, which by the way, I love to wear...Thank you Dottie!"


~Fast forward now to today...I still love that green robe...I still think of Dottie every time I wear it! My friend Joy was a lover of books...her husband told me to look through her books and pick any I wanted--I selected one named 'Comfort and Joy'...Yes, It is still about the people who touch your heart!

Thank you for letting me share...make it a great day,

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

FIRPTA Changes Effective Today

Important Update on New FIRPTA Changes!

On December 18, 2015, President Obama signed into law the 'Protecting Americans From Tax Hikes Act of 2015'. This act includes significant changes to several tax laws, in particular important modifications to the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act of 1980, better known as FIRPTA. These changes become effective, today, February 16th, 2016. Since approximately 25% of the real estate purchase in Florida involve a foreign buyer or seller, it is our effort to keep you apprised of these changes. As of today, all settlement agents are required to withhold 15% of the gross proceeds from any sale of real estate by foreign sellers.

 

Here is a summary:

1. Unless an exemption or reduced rate applies, the withholding amount has been increased from 10% to 15%.
2. If the property is NOT acquired as a residence, or the transaction exceeds $1 Million as a sales price, 15% of the gross proceeds MUST be withheld.
3. For properties being acquired by the buyer for use as a residence, and which are $1 Million or less, and for which the buyer signs a "Statement of Intent to Reside" the following rates apply: a) If the sales price is $300,000 or less. withholding is NOT required.  b) If the sales price is greater than $300,000 but not more than $1 Million 10% must be withheld. *please note the 10% withholding is based on the full amount of the gross proceeds.

There are 3 general ways of dealing with FIRPTA withholding:

1. Have the 15% withheld and file a non-resident income tax return for a refund in the year of the sale.
2. File an application for a reduced rate of withholding from the IRS on or before the date of closing. This is also known as a "Withholding Certificate". The seller then is required to file a non-resident income tax return the following year.
3. The buyer can choose to sign a "Statement with an Intent to Reside" on properties $1 Million or less which triggers one of the steps listed above in #3. *Please note that under the current law, the buyer assumes the risk, as they are referred to as the 'withholding agent'.  It is then mandatory and required that the seller file a non-resident income tax return and pay any tax due. [This could incur penalties for underpayment if applied.]

If you're not confused yet, you're one of the few who isn't. Better yet, I suggest you contact a professional in U.S International Tax Services. We at The Harris Peppe Team recommend Roberge Poskus International. You can go right to their website for additional information by clicking here: Roberge Poskus International.

 

We welcome your comments and feedback. Do you believe we will see any negative fallout from this new law? What are the positives and negatives in your opinion? Remember to call a real estate professional when considering a purchase or sale. With well over 80 years combined experience in the Naples Real Estate market, The Harris Peppe Team, members of The Coldwell Banker Previews International real estate company, is the largest full service real estate company in the world.

Local knowledge, Global connections. Call us today 1-239-370-0574

 

Thank you, and make it a GREAT day,

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 

 

Coldwell Banker CARES Foundation

Together We Can Make A Difference!

 



 

Many years ago, Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, the leading real estate company in Florida, established The Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES Foundation to provide charitable contributions and fund raising initiatives to a wide array of non-profit organizations in the communities and neighborhoods we serve. The mission of CARES is to give back to our local communities by providing charitable contributions and volunteer support. We are hoping this will strengthen and reinforce Coldwell Banker's commitment to creating a lasting source of unity, hope and vision in Florida.

We know Florida’s quality of life depends upon the generous donations of those who live and work here. We contribute our time, talents and resources to help build a brighter future for all our citizens who call Florida home. Coldwell Banker sales associates throughout the United States support the CARES Foundation by donating a percentage from every closing! Even our employees and managers contribute through payroll deductions and numerous fundraising events.

Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES has chosen Ronald McDonald House Charities as its statewide initiative in support of families whose children are hospitalized. Our next fund raising initiative is an Art Auction being held in Fort Myers. [click on link for info about Marlin Fine Auctions] ~Featuring art in all media and price ranges, admission is only $10 per person and includes a complimentary glass of wine. Please call Tracie Hurley for additional information: 1-239-220-8151

Coldwell Banker offices across Florida are also very active with Habitat for Humanity and have sponsored the construction of dozens of homes in our local communities, with additional home sponsorships in progress. On Coldwell Banker's 100 year anniversary in 2006, as a company we committed to building 100 Habitat Homes across the country, a goal we more than exceeded! Coldwell Banker is proud to participate in Habitat for Humanity’s universally praised mission - to build simple, decent and affordable homes in partnership with deserving families without regard to race, ethnic background or religion. What better partnership, than the largest and most successful real estate company in the world joining forces with a charity that builds homes for those who otherwise might not ever be able to obtain the American Dream of home ownership!

Through our pledges, donations and fundraising events, we are excited and proud to give back to the communities where we work and live. Coldwell Banker CARES has contributed nearly $2 Million to various charitable organizations since 2001! For a list of some of the dozens of charities that we have given to in South West Florida over the years, please contact me directly at blogger@naplesrealestate.com 

 

Together we CAN make a difference!

 

Thank you,

 

 

The Naples Real Estate Blogger

 

 *Contributions may also be sent directly to Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES, 5951 Cattleridge Ave., Sarasota, FL 34232.