Eddie Zahn

As a Realtor, my first inclination is to say that is a great time to buy. However, I have seen alot of people over the last 18 months get upside down on their house (some upwards of $100k). Most experts are indicating that it may be 3-5 years before the market turns around. Jacksonville is not as bad off as the rest of Florida. Between 2003-2005 most Florida metros saw price growths of 25-40% per year!!! In those same years, Jax saw price growth of 11-14% per year (much more moderate). The average sales price of a home in Jax is $189k versus $234k for the state. One can deduce that Jacksonville is set for solid growth when the market turns.
There are plenty of "great buys" out there - but be cautious and due diligence to research the developer or the pre-existing home. And absolutely have an inspection done prior to closing. A good Realtor will help you through the process. Best of luck!
Eddie Zahn
904-463-7637
eddie.zahn@prudentialnetworkrealty.com - Thu May 22 2008, 21:15

The first step is definitely finding which side of town you would like to live. Take into consideration where you work and play. As you find your interest area, start talking to a lender. It is a good idea to use a reputable lender as this will save you much grief down the line. Ask the lender for a pre approval letter so you will know which price points to start looking at. Then connect with a Realtor to start the home buying process. Feel free to contact me anytime for more information.
Eddie Zahn
904-463-7637
eddie.zahn@prudentialnetworkrealty.com - Thu May 22 2008, 20:47

This is an "unanswerable" question. Honestly, no one can say what the future will hold - we can only speculate. As we have all found out over the last 18 months, speculation can lead into alot of trouble. I will say, however, that buyers are starting to get a little fired up now. This week, the Fed has cut yet another 1/4 point down to 2%. The past 4-6 weeks has seen an inrease in sales. Developers are starting to unload properties as many have lowered prices to the bank minimums. These stats are motivating and show a more positive outlook of the market that the media normally hides. With all that being said, my opinion is BUY NOW - SELL LATER!!!!
By the way, 32246 is a great area as the Town Center is growing and UNF is expanding.
Feel free to contact me anytime at eddie.zahn@prudentialnetworkrealty.com for any more info. - Thu May 15 2008, 22:31

I am a Broker Associate with Prudential Network Realty. All of my listings are featured on Trulia as well as numerous other prominent real estate web sites. Prudential Network Realty believes in having a very strong web presence as 87% of homebuyers start their new home search online, WOW!!! Contact me at eddie.zahn@prudentialnetworkrealty.com if you would like more information on listing your home. - Thu May 15 2008, 22:08

The are a few areas of Jacksonville that you may find larger parcels of land for agricultural purposes. The Northeast side of Jax ( N. of the Dames Point Bridge) holds some possibilities. There will be more opportunities as you look further away from the city. The surrounding counties of Nassau, Clay, & Baker have substantially lower price points per acre. If you would like more information on specific land listings contact me at eddie.zahn@prudentialnetworkrealty.com
Best of luck in your search. - Thu May 15 2008, 22:00