FLORIDA HOMES SALES GOOD NEWS FOR YEAR END

As 2008 comes to a close, the Florida Association of Realtors reported that existing home sales in Florida rose for the third month in a row in November. Fort Lauderdale enjoyed a 26 percent increase over the number of homes sold during November of 2007. Mind you, the median home sales price fell 34 percent, but home sales did continue to rise. Fort Lauderdale’s condo sales for November 2008 grew 3 percent from sales in 2007. Again, prices dipped 30 percent, but sales did rise. As sellers take a more objective view on pricing their homes, hopefully, the upward sales trend will continue!

Meanwhile, the South Florida Business Journal reported that, according to the US Census Bureau, Florida ranked No. 6 in the nation in sheer numbers for growth. Despite the fact that home sales slid nationwide in November, mortgage applications are up 48 percent as interest rates become lower.

I am glad to hear this slow but steady good news for the year end. I see these signs of positive activity in our see-saw economy as indicators towards recovery. I am excited about the aggressive approach I am taking with my marketing plan for 2009. I am holding firm to the belief that professionalism, dedication and an optimistic attitude will bring positive results to my business. I see this challenging economy as opportunity to test my skills. To date, I am still enjoying success with sales and closings through my continuing efforts. Who of you are testing your skills against our demanding market and getting positive results? Do you have any tips or suggestions? I would enjoy hearing how you are doing.

I wish every success to all my colleagues in the Real Estate industry for 2009.

Happy New Year!

Julie Jones