Say, “Hello,” to Dallas, a Yellow Labrador who lives in the Las Olas Beach Club. 

For those of you who are immediately concerned about the welfare and quality of Dallas’s life, it would be my pleasure to dispel any illusions.

Dallas is quite at home at the Las Olas Beach Club.  Her friends in the community enjoy exchanging pleasantries when meeting in the elevator or passing in the sophisticated lobby areas. It is just another day in the life of this privileged penthouse pup!

        Apart from walking with her master on the west side of A1A with an excellent view of the iconic wave wall on Fort Lauderdale Beach, or cruising the dog beach at Sunrise Boulevard and A1A, Dallas likes to visit the H2O Restaurant, a dog-friendly establishment which is located on the beach level of the Las Olas Beach Club.  Dallas recommends breakfast, lunch or dinner!   

       If Dallas doesn’t feel like ocean breezes in her fur, she trots over to the Las Olas City Marina and inspects the beautiful vessels docked just across the street. In fact, she can see the marina from her penthouse and some of her neighbors who dock their yachts there.

        On those occasions when Dallas doesn’t feel like leaving her resort-style community, she tours the private dog run just off the lobby where she can catch up with her canine pals.

        Dallas’s luxurious penthouse residence is offered for sale at $4.495M (web ref: F102875). Visit via my Luxury Broker Preview at www.luxuryrealestateftl.com.  See for yourself the expansive terrace features of this stunning offering. (I have posted a few photos below.) I am also offering #2705, a decorator-ready penthouse (web ref: F941653) for $2.795M. The Las Olas Beach Club is a genuinely pet-friendly building which is unusual in the ultra-luxury market place.

        After all, Dallas wants you to know that it truly is a dog’s life at Las Olas Beach Club! For those of you interested in knowing more about pet-friendly luxury condominiums please contact me at 954.328.3665 or by email: julie@premierestateproperties.com.

L'Hermitage offers dedicated dog walks.

The condominium sales season is upon us here in sunny Fort Lauderdale. As a luxury real estate broker, many of my out-of-state and international buyers plan to purchase a vacation or retirement home, or simply downsize from their single family residence. Opportunities for buyers in 2010 are enormous! Not only high inventory and low interest rates exist, but an exciting range of available condominium communities make this an excellent time to buy.

Transitioning to a condominium often represents a new, more carefree lifestyle. However, as a pet owner, you can save a lot of time and potential disappointment by undertaking some basic due-diligence during your new home search.

•If you are working with a real estate professional, immediately tell your agent about your pet, including breed and weight.  Identify if you have more than one pet, as well.  You will want to know in advance which condominium communities possess strict rules and regulations with regard to the number and size of domestic animals welcome.  Some breeds are not welcome in certain communities.

•The selection of communities open to you may be reduced as a pet owner. I, personally, have two wonderful Shih Tzus. When searching for a condominium, my choice was restricted because I needed a community which allows two dogs! The small, boutique waterfront condominium I finally chose meets all my personal criteria and is exceedingly pet friendly--worth the time it took to find.

•Your new condominium will have rules regarding pets, such as dogs on leashes or in carriers, and no pets permitted around pool or recreation areas.  Some of the larger communities, such as the Las Olas Beach Club, The Harborage and L’Hermitage, have specially designated and secure dog walks, a wonderful amenity.

•Some communities have service elevators specifically for your four-legged pal to help make internal building traffic comfortable and easy.

•Another excellent compromise may be to choose a townhouse whereby you still have use of your own, private backyard. There are some fabulous options currently available in the luxury townhouse market.

Overall, if you are changing your lifestyle and it includes a pet, do not be deterred! I, and my dedicated buyer specialists, have detailed knowledge of the best pet friendly options. As a passionate animal lover, it is important to me that the buyers I assist find a match which will make a happy home for them and their valuable family member! 

For more information please visit www.luxuryrealestateftl.com or call me at 954.328.3665. 

Las Olas Beach Club Terrace - - Perfect to share with larger dogs.

My colleague, Annette Reeve, who is the Director at Mayfair International Realty in London has been quoted on several Internet posts regarding the UK's view on how desirable and available real estate in the US. market may be quick to be sold.

Click, read on, and feel optimisitc if you are selling property now---especially in desirable South Florida!

http://www.safestore.co.uk/industry_news/19582375/desirable_us_property_will_be_snapped_up_quickly.aspx

http://www.insureandgo.com/press/Desirable_US_property_wont_be_available_long_13587.html

http://www.axiafx.com/news/property-in-florida-could-drive-foreign-currency-exchange-19583506

Fort Lauderdale luxury real estate sales for 2009 have produced my best year—ever! I do not make this statement to toot my own horn, as they say, but to reinforce the fact to my colleagues and to Sellers and Buyers that optimism ruled in what the rest of the world described as a declining real estate market. 

Granted, I worked double-time for this accomplishment, but I chose never to invest a single thought towards the negative hype about a faltering economy. I stuck to my marketing plan. I continued extensive advertising of my superb luxury waterfront listings with patience and persistence while maintaining a positive attitude and working with my clients to achieve their optimum goals. My choice of attitude paid off: 

At year-end 2009, I was awarded Premier Estate Properties’ top producing broker award across the entire company. I and my team closed over $37million in luxury real estate over the course of the year.

I am proud of this excellent accomplishment in the face of all the dooming media hype. Once more, 2010 is off to an excellent start for me with a $2million closed sale this month and two properties pending sale. 2429 Del Lago in Harbor Beach is offered at $6,995M and 2408 North Atlantic Beach is offered at $2,495M. You might like to know that both contracts were negotiated during the holidays!

Some might say I have a “Polly Anna” approach to selling luxury real estate, but I must say my constructive optimism and willingness to think “outside the box” achieved convincing results.

I wish everyone a Happy New Year, and may a positive attitude prevail!

Once again, our colleague, Nick Churton, in our London Mayfair Office has sent us an update for the real estate market in England.  Read on, my friends, and enjoy!

Central London Leads Market Recovery in UK

Since the beginning of 2009 the Central London property market has confounded just about every one involved with it.  The weak pound has attracted overseas buyers who have been absent for some years.  Buyers from France and Italy have been particularly notable.

But buyers are being choosy.  Locations such as Mayfair, Belgravia, Kensington and Knightsbridge have been especially popular but only the best property examples are generating special interest.  Condition is very important, as is interior finish.  Good is no longer good enough.  Exceptional finish is now the accepted norm if a house or apartment is going to get a top price.  This is the international effect: expectations are high and this is certainly having an influence on how London homeowners modernise and improve their homes.

Well-appointed properties in the best locations should continue to sell well - in many cases at pre 2007 levels. This activity in prime Central London will, no doubt, ripple out most quickly to the South East of England and prime centres such as Oxford, Cambridge, Winchester, Bath and York.

Whilst the stock of property for sale remains extremely limited prices will be forced upwards.  But this could change rapidly during 2010 if sellers are encouraged to come to the market through rising prices – thus reversing the trend and creating a second dip in property values.

However if the supply of property remains relatively low because of continued rock bottom interest rates and the fear of rising unemployment, there is unlikely to be a repeat of the bargain prices of late 2008/early 2009.  Also, any weakening of the pound against the dollar or euro will see further interest from abroad that will positively affect supply and demand for house sellers.

The UK general election before June may also have an influence on the market.  The UK government will want to do its utmost to improve the public mood, and we can expect that there will be further pressure on the banks to increase the residential lending necessary to stimulate the housing market.

Central and southwest London are expected to lead the way in the house-price recovery into 2010. With low levels of stock and growing confidence and demand, buyers will be forced to broaden their search to find value.  Areas that have been lagging in the recovery will benefit from this effect and there will be a direct impact on prices as family movers push up house prices in metropolitan suburbs and major towns.   City centres, burdened with an over supply of apartments will take longer to recover but as the buy-to-let market gathers pace these areas will also begin to show signs of improvement.

 Julie Jones has found a way to virtually never miss a showing!  Julie Jones with Premier Estate Properties in Fort Lauderdale Florida has introduced a way for potential buyers both nationally and internationally to truly preview listings, any time and any place, at their convenience with Julie’s Luxury Broker Previews.

These detailed and comprehensive on-line video tours enable potential buyers to “step inside” Julie’s luxury inventory.  Through the eyes of the camera Julie introduces the buyer to the main areas of the residence and offers a real sense of the property’s flow, floor plan and luxury amenities.   Stand on the balcony and take in the views, check out the gourmet kitchen, visit all the main areas of the residence from the privacy of your home or office!  Family members can visit together (regardless of their location), children can pick their bedrooms, board of directors can endorse a purchase, interior designers plan for their clients, boat captains can check the dockage and co-operating brokers can preview on behalf of their buyer.  A potential buyer can call from the yard sign and obtain an instant virtual showing of the property. This feature maximizes use of both the buyer’s and seller’s valuable time and increases visits to the residence.

Obviously, nothing compares to actually visiting these exciting luxury offerings but the tours created by IBI Designs Inc. and Time Capsule Films certainly encourage the buyer to take the time or make the journey to Fort Lauderdale.  In a time when video sells, Julie feels that the Luxury Broker Previews provide additional exposure and build excitement for the residence, with a welcoming introduction for the buyer.   With over 80% of home buyers originating their search on the Internet, Julie hopes that this will be a useful service for both sellers and buyers of Fort Lauderdale’s finest luxury real estate.

The Luxury Broker Previews last an average of four minutes so the potential buyer can really take the time and imagine living in the residence!

 Those buyers who have already visited the property can re-visit without any pressure or time restraints.  Also, the tour is useful as buyers start to narrow down their choices or differentiate between luxury residences under consideration.  In such busy times, Julie has found that potential buyers feel enormous pressure to absorb all of the details of a luxury property.  Often, they are on a tight time-table and feel overwhelmed when trying to take in all of the elements.  The purchase of luxury real estate is an important decision and Julie aims to make it as easy and enjoyable for everyone involved.
 
 Julie opens the door to three luxury properties:

2623 Delmar Place on Seven Isles - $7.495M: http://luxuryrealestateftl.com/flash_tour.asp?Mls=F1004413

Las Olas Beach Club – PH2605 - $4.995M: http://luxuryrealestateftl.com/flash_tour.asp?Mls=F1028758

142 Royal Palm Drive on Las Olas Isles - $4.695M: http://luxuryrealestateftl.com/flash_tour.asp?Mls=F969654

Please do not hesitate to contact Julie for further information via telephone 954-328-3665 or email Julie@premierestateproperties.com.  The Luxury Broker Previews can also be accessed beneath their respective listings on www.luxuryrealestateftl.com. 

Julie to the Internet Media World . . . are you there?  I am writing today to request audience feedback.  As an avid blogger during 2009, my platform discussed the good, the bad and the ugly of luxury waterfront and oceanfront real estate markets in Fort Lauderdale.  I also offered strategies in navigating through today’s economic challenges, the pros of Green building and renovations.  I enjoyed introducing historical points of interest around Fort Lauderdale as well as tourism attractions (including where to find the most delicious and most expensive Margarita in this tropical paradise).  I reported what draws folks to city living and what fosters neighborhood loyalty, as well as retirement possibilities regarding real estate investments.   (Visit www.luxuryrealestateftl.com to view my Blogs.)

 Now, what I would like to hear are your thoughts and comments.  Please tell me what topics you would like me to investigate in my Fort Lauderdale blogging adventures for 2010.  I will answer any and every luxury real estate question, as well as search out local facts and fun in Fort Lauderdale that peak your interest.
 
Feel free to comment here or email me at julie@premierestateproperties.com and I will personally respond to your request or comment.

I look forward to blogging for you in 2010!

Julie

Whether one of our own Fort Lauderdale citizens celebrating Thanksgiving in our tropical paradise or a welcome visitor from a colder clime, I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving Day!  Holidays are always a terrific reason to make time for local fun.  Whether to entertain each other, the kids, or out of town guests, here are a few favorite Fort Lauderdale outings to consider this weekend:

1. BONNET HOUSE MUSEUM AND GARDENS
Rated number one of the top 90 “to do” spots in Fort Lauderdale, Bonnet House is an historic 1921 plantation-style home amid tropical gardens and ponds. The home of famed artist, Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Evelyn, the Bonnet House ocean-side grounds and estate are open to the public.  Contact education@bonnethouse.org for more information.  Address: 900 North Birch Road Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304  Tel: 954-563-5393.

2. SAWGRASS RECREATION PARK
This is an exciting airboat tour in the Everglades.  Rumor has it that reservations should be made early in the day for a better chance to see alligators.  Be sure to ask about the free, annual one year pass for Florida residents. Address: U.S. 27 north of I-595 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33329. Tel: 954-389-0202.

3. SPIRIT OF LAUDERDALE CATAMARAN
Quoted by one tourist as “heaven on the water,” this day cruise is a “must do” for water lovers.  The crew is known for their safety, knowledge of the area and love of the sea.  Visit http://www.tropicalsailing.com/spiritoflauderdale for more information.  Address:  801 Seabreeze Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. Tel:  954-579-8181.

4. BROWARD CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS
The beautiful Performing Arts Center in downtown Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of musical and theater productions, including touring Broadway shows.  Visit BoxOffice@browardcenter.org to find what’s playing this weekend.

5. HUGH TAYLOR BIRCH STATE PARK
Just a stone’s throw from Bonnet House, this ocean-side, 180-acre park was once the home of the man who gave his daughter the grounds for Bonnet House in the 1920’s.  Straddling both the Intracoastal and the ocean, this wonderful park offers picnicking, camping, biking, swimming and canoeing and a chance to tour the home of the generous man who donated his lovely estate to Florida. Visit http://www.floridastateparks.org/hughtaylorbirch/ for more information.  Address: 3109 East Sunrise Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 Tel: 954-564-4521.

6. MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE AND IMAX 3D THEATER
Meant for kids of all ages, this interactive science museum makes learning fun. Features include a Discovery Center for younger children, a planetarium with powerful telescopes and an IMAX Theater that shows daily science-related films on its giant, 3-D screen. For more information, visit information@mods.net.  Address: 401 Southwest Second Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 Tel: 954-467-6637.
 
7. LAS OLAS BOULEVARD
This lively, trend-setting downtown boulevard is perfect to stroll, shop excellent boutiques, dine on local cuisine, relax at a sidewalk café or take a gondola ride through the Venice of America.

These are only a smattering of fun Fort Lauderdale choices, of course, after you’ve been for a swim in our turquoise ocean! 

Happy Thanksgiving one and all!

Julie
www.luxuryrealestateftl.com

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show kicked off the main selling season for real estate here in South Florida.  As temperatures start to drop in the Northern States and overseas, potential buyer’s attention turns to the Sunshine State.  Low prices and high inventory are a major attraction this year.   As November sets in and the holiday season approaches, here is the latest news from the trenches of the luxury real estate market.

 THE GOOD

 • The Fed again pledges to hold rates at record-lows for an extended period, signaling that the weak economy remains dependent on government assistance to grow. Most analysts do not think that the Fed will begin to boost rates again until next spring or summer
.
• The Central Bank hopes low rates will encourage consumers and businesses to boost spending and invigorate the economy.  The Fed signaled that it can continue to hold rates because inflation is all but nonexistent.

•  The economy began growing again last quarter for the first time in more than a year.  However, much of that growth was from Government support spending on homes and cars.

•  The Florida Realtors statistics show sales of existing single family homes rose 33% in the third quarter of 2009 versus 2008--marking the fifth consecutive quarter that Florida has seen higher existing year-to-year sales.  Statewide sales of existing condominiums in the third quarter rose 56% versus 2008, marking the fourth consecutive quarter.

•  The general view is that Florida will rebound because the sun shines every day and there are lots of advantages to living here.  Foreign investors see this too and believe that prospects are good for long term investments.  This month Julie has seen buyers from Russia, Canada and Europe.

•  The first-time buyer tax credit has been extended which favors the under $1M market.  However, any boost to buyer confidence will impact on the sales of luxury real estate over time.

•   Investors are very slowly and cautiously returning to Florida, they are looking for the ultimate bargains and always make low offers, often with equally low deposits.  However, Julie welcomes the activity on her inventory and encourages all buyers to counter offers which have to “start somewhere”.

•  The quality of buyers has improved since the summer time. Buyers are more serious and are coming back for a second look (often resurfacing after cooling off for many months).  The Internet provides such a wealth of knowledge that these buyers are very well educated as to market values and opportunities.

•  Julie is talking to a number of buyers who are considering listing in the New Year after all of the holiday activities.

•  Social media continues to grow in popularity with Zillow, Trulia, Inman and the new Blockshopper program providing additional exposure for Julie’s listings and widening the Internet “net” both nationally and internationally.

•  Brian Radeer has joined Julie’s team as a buyer specialist and brings extensive experience of the oceanfront condominium market, in particular.

•  Julie and the team has $8M in pending sales for November and looks forward to a strong end to 2009.

 THE BAD

 •  Fed Chairman, Ben Bernanke, cautions that rising joblessness and tight credit for many people and companies could restrain the rebound in the months ahead, with economic activity likely to remain weak for a time.

•  As with all past economic rebounds, the recovery will not stop the unemployment rate from rising.  The jobless rate could rise as high as 10.5% before declining.  The delicate balance between boosting interest rates and removing government support too soon could damage the recovery. On the other hand, maintaining low rates and keeping support for too long could fuel inflation.

•  The Fed continues to caution that the tepid recovery has begun but gains are small or scattered.  Predictions for Florida are that the holiday outlook is weak with home sales rebounding at a slower pace.  Although layoffs eased, firms are waiting for a surge in sales before hiring.

 THE UGLY

 •  South Florida buyers are increasingly leery about Chinese Drywall.  An extreme example is ruling out entire communities or residences built within the past seven years.  As many as 100,000 homes in the US, including 36,000 in Florida could have the imported wallboard which is thought to corrode wiring, cooper pipes, appliances and give off the “rotten egg” odor.  In the worst case, homeowners report nosebleeds and respiratory problems. However, this is denied by State and Federal officials who have yet to make this link.

•  Under Florida law, sellers and their real estate agents must disclose any known material defect or condition which would affect the value of a property.  To this end the Florida Association of Realtors has added a disclosure form for Chinese drywall, but there is no state law requiring the use of this document.

•  Massive amounts of foreclosures continue to clog the county’s civil courts. To put this in perspective 135,000 foreclosures could be filed in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe this year compared to 17,500 in 2006.

The overall message is this ‘THERE IS ONLY ONE WAY TO ENTICE THE BUYER …. THAT IS WITH PRICE’.   Julie will be contacting all of the sellers that she works with to encourage them to continue price adjustments in order to maximize the opportunity of a sale this season.   As always Julie and her team welcomes comments and questions on any aspect of the luxury real estate market in Fort Lauderdale.