Florida Real Estate, Tourism and Immigration News

Florida’s existing home sales remain level in July 2008

ORLANDO, Florida. – Aug. 25, 2008 – Single-family existing home sales rose in Florida for the first time in more than two years: While only six more homes sold in July 2008 than in July 2007, it could indicate stabilization in Florida’s housing sector, according to the latest housing statistics released by the Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR).

11,498 existing homes sold statewide last month

11,492 homes sold in July 2007

The last time statewide sales of existing homes outpaced the previous year’s sales figure was in the year-end 2005 report, according to FAR records, when sales were up 2 percent over year-end 2004.

Florida’s median sales price for existing homes last month was $193,600; a year ago, it was $238,900 for a 19 percent decrease.

But, looking back to July 2003, the statewide median sales price for single-family homes has increased 18 percent over the five-year-period, according to FAR records – at that time, the statewide existing-home median price was $164,000.

In a year-to-year comparison for condos, 3,375 units sold statewide compared to 3,641 in July 2007 for a 7 percent decline. The statewide existing-condo median sales price last month was $168,500; in July 2007 it was $194,100 for a 13 percent decrease.

More than half of Florida’s metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) reported increased sales of existing homes in July; seven MSAs also showed gains in condo sales. Realtors around the state reported increased business activity, including more telephone calls, more home showings and a rise in pending sales.

Read the full FAR article

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Walt Disney World named leading theme park in the world at the World Travel Awards this week.

Orange County Convention Center was amongst the winners also as well as Carnival Corp and Royal Caribbean – all local companies.

The awards were voted on by 167,000 travel agents and professionals in the industry sector online. This year the leading destination award goes to London – Orlando in 2006 held this title.

In the regional awards sector Orlando was listed as North America’s leading destination

Orlando is the City Beautiful right? Or is it Coral Gables? Not sure? Well neither are they!

Disagreement began when Coral Gables tried to federally trademark the slogan which would mean that Orlando would have to cease using the phrase.

Coral Gables argues that is has its gorgeous location nestled amongst a leafy setting whilst moments from the hustle and bustle of Miami proper whilst Orlando boasts that its famous Lake Eola park earns it the right to continue using the phrase.

Whilst both cities have been using the phrase for many years they both accepted the status quo which is what Orlando officials want to keep so that any city can use the slogan.

Check out the Orlando Sentinel article for the full story as well as a stunning view of Lake Eola park in beautiful Downtown Orlando.

Paul O’Leary of the British Homes Group, Orlando, Florida attended the 2007 Realty World Convention at the Peabody Hotel on International Drive in Orlando, Florida in April.

Paul accepted an award on behalf of the company, British Home Sales Florida, the Real Estate Divison of the British Homes Group. The award was a gold trophy for the highest number of closed units per agent.

The trophy was presented to Paul Gary Longobardo (Left), President, and COO. of REALTY WORLD, Paul O’Leary of British Homes Group (Center) and Andrew Cimerman, Chairman & CEO of REALTY WORLD. (Right).