Jeannine de Alwis

Janice

Everyones circumstances are different.
Ask your friends and neighbors if they can recomend a Realtor they have personal experience wth (preferably not a friend or relative, as this could be tricky if you are not happy with their services!)
You might also want to consult your CPA as to whether you can hold on to both properties for another year with rents being adversely affected with the large inventory we currently hold.
Of course, the most important question is what equity do you have in your homes? A large number of sellers say they will lose money in comparison to what they could have got for their property a few years back, while in fact they do have equity in their property!
The advice to put both on the market was good.
You can contact me if you would like to have more info on the Southwest Florida Market. In fact, the Naples Daily News reported today that sales were up in Collier and that affects the whole area - including South Lee county. - Sat Jun 14 2008, 15:31

Hi M Bernhardt
Remember the golden rule of real estate is location, location, location....!
It seems from your question, that you must have found a great location, even though the house doesn't live up to the price!
One of the roles of the Real Estate Agent is to identify comparable properties in the area that have recently sold and give you a good basis to make a sensible offer.

Jeannine de Alwis, GRI
Coldwell Banker Residential R E
Naples, Fl

Cell. 239 298 6034
Email: alwis@ comcast.net - Thu May 22 2008, 16:10

Hi Colleen
It is usually best to contact a LOCAL agent in whatever area you are looking at.
Although it is true that as Realtors, we have access to a lot of information, this really is a hands-on business.
As professionals, we would normally refer business to colleagues who we know are knowledgeable about a particular area or community.
Also, it is better for the customer (YOU) to interview more than one agent.
Even on the phone you will be able to decide who you think you will work best with.
Of course, I am pretty sure that anyone of us would be pleased to help you!!!

Jeannine de Alwis, GRI
Coldwell Banker Residential R E
Naples
Cell: 239 298 6034
Email: alwis@comcast.net
Office: 239 263 3300 - Tue May 20 2008, 18:07

You have received some really good answers to your question about costs etc.
Beach and gulf access for boats is what will cause the price of your future home to go up.
There are numerous properties available at a very reasonable prices e.g. Naples Park (homes from the 1970's that have been remodelled etc.) with a pool is currently around $300,000 upwards..
This area is centrally located and a short drive to the beach.
Also not being a gated community, the fees associated with home ownership would be low.
There are numerous other areas, mostly gated communities which fit most of your criteria - except beachfront.
Don't forget that Naples is on the Gulf of Mexico and the beach is never far away!
Let me know if you need anymore info. - Fri May 16 2008, 10:35

Vista Palms is a fun community for the young-at-heart. Very reasonable (926.sq.ft.condo for $95,000)
with great neighbors, golf course views..and much more... - Fri May 16 2008, 10:10