Wekiva Parkway (SR429 extension)

This could be worth attending .....

The Wekiva Parkway will connect SR417 to SR429 to complete the ring-road around Orlando. Find out more at www.wekivaparkway.com, courtesy of FDOT.

SCARY NEW SCAM

This is a new wire scam which has affected some realtors and transactions in Central Florida.  Whilst not affecting me personally, I wanted everyone to be aware and able to take the necessary precautions to prevent.

This is how it works - a hacker breaks into a realtor’s email account to find out about upcoming transactions, including Title company, amount of deposit, closing date, structure of closing payments etc.  They then send an email to the Buyer, posing as the title company or buyer’s agent requesting wiring of the necessary funds to close or for the deposit and the attached wire instructions direct the money to the hacker’s bank account.  Because the email appears to have come from a recognized source, the Buyer wires the funds without question.

In order to prevent this happening, many Title companies are providing password-protected wire instructions or not sending wire instructions via email. 

The best recommendation is for Buyers to call or their agent or title company (and only speak to someone they know in person, not an assistant or someone claiming to represent them) when they receive a request to wire funds. Then they can verify the validity of the request before sending the money.

New Stores in Sanford

Lots happening over the next few months ......

Wa-Wa is coming to Sanford! Will be on the site of the old Denny's restaurant, off I-4/SR 46, opposite iHOP.

Chick-Fil-A is taking over the BoJangles building, on the corner of Rinehart and SR46.

It is strongly rumored that a Golden Corral and Hapmton Inn will be built on the site of the old motel which borders the I-4 next to Cracker Barrel, off Hickman.

A new BBQ restaurant (Fuel) is being constructed in Downtown Sanford - corner of 2nd and Park Ave.

Finally, Floor and Décor will be coming to the outskirts of the Town Center Mall, taking over the premises where Bealls currently is.  Bealls will close at the end of April.

Design Ideas!

If you are thinking of remodeling your home, check out some of the design ideas in the new communities in this area! Love the outdoor space and kitchen in these CalAtlantic models (Johns Lake Pointe in Winter Garden).

Frosty Florida and Thursday news!

Yes, we had a frost this morning, with temperatures in the 30s!  However, it will warm up soon and we should be in the 70s by the weekend.

The Manatees are back in the Springs. Cold weather has forced them back into Blue Springs and other designated Manatee Refuge locations in Florida. It's a great opportunity to see them up close - you can walk along beside the river and look down on the crystal-clear water to see the manatees. Blue Springs is located off 17-92 in Orange City, just a short ride from Sanford and Lake Mary.
Blue Springs State Park

Interest rates dropped today, to 3.64% for a 30-yr loan or 2.76% for a 15-yr loan.  WOW!  

Bell Lake Forest

Just visited this community, which is located just outside the gates to Lake Forest on SR46.

Bell Lake Forest provides 1-3 bed units, furnished or unfurnished for long or short-term rental.  Great option if there is a gap between selling and buying, or if you are moving to the area and want to take some time to get familiar with the area before buying.

Check out the amenities - saltwater pool, BBQ grill areas, coffee lounge, business lounge, internet cafe with computers, game room including pool table, TV lounge, 24-hr gym.  All within walking distance of shops, restaurants.

Bell Lake Forest link

Lake Markham Landings update

New luxury home community being developed by Cal Atlantic (previously Standard Pacific – same company, new name) just off Markham Woods Rd in Seminole County includes:

·        Walking trails and conservation areas inside community gates.
·        40 oversized homesites including 6 lakefront sites.
·        Prime location, adjacent to Wekiva River and Seminole Trail.
·        2 furnished models on site, including 2015 Parade of Homes winning floorplan.

Construction has begun and pricing starts in mid $800s.

 
EXCITING NEWS!
·        Builder is introducing a new floorplan with 4474 sq ft, 2 story home, Master on First (Main) Floor with prices starting in high $800s.
·        Community will include a viewing/fishing dock on Lake Markham.

Contact me today for more info! 

Happy New Year

Wishing everyone a very healthy, happy and prosperous New Year! To past, current and future customers and colleagues.  I am going to keep this blog updated with real estate happenings, news and views.