I would agree with Educated Consumer's comments regarding prices and values. You can find West Palm Century Village units for $10-15K; these are distress sales and REOs. My unit has lost some $22K in value in only 2 years, to give you an idea. Most CV residents own their units free and clear and may have bought them years ago at very low prices. They are NOT losing money if they sell at current market values. CV is a full service community, with one of the best security systems in the state of Florida, 12 swimming pools, a $8 million clubhouse and a NEW fitness center, 365 days a year internal and external courtesy bus service, an on-site medical building and pharmacy, golf course, tennis courts, Broadway shows and free first run movies. No other condo community comes close regardless of how luxurious the accommodations. It is less than 10 minutes to all major shopping centers and 20 minutes to CityPlace.

For retirees who want to keep their housing and other costs low, you can't beat CV, West Palm Beach. For more details, check the last U.S. Census report. Be aware that over 20% of CV residents are over the age of 70, with many in their 80s and 90s.

If you ask questions hereon and they're answered by realtors, then you're going to get their "spin" on it. The condo market in PBG and the rest of FL continues collapsing. It was built up like the rest of the market because they were giving loans to nearly anyone who asked for one. Nevertheless, if you are educated about the market you can find decent deals. However, you have to do a lot of homework first. Listening to any realtor isn't homwork. You need to look at recent comps and also check what the same units were selling for back in '03. Comparing anything to what they sold for in '04, '05 and '06 is like commiting financial suicide.

Hi Helen -
Condos aren't "collapsing". Actually, buyers can get some great deals right now. And, if you're buying to live it in (rather than rent it or "flip"), it's a great time to buy.
There are Century Villages in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton and Deerfield Beach. WIth all of these choices, I'm sure you'll be able to find something you like at a good price.
Best of luck , Eileen

Helen,

Good morning!

Sure, I would love to help find you a great investment here that you can afford for your retirement. There are some great buys here and it's my job to help you locate a good one!

I am a Realtor living and working in West Palm for a family business. Having relocated from NY (Long Island - Suffolk County) ourselves several years ago, I know what it's like and would be happy to help with any additional info you may need.

Please feel free to visit our website for more info about our family company.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,

Jolie Lindholm
Red Reef Realty Inc. http://www.redreefrealty.com
http://jolielindholm1.point2agent.com
561.756.2363 (cell)