Fourth of July Fireworks Celebrations in Orlando

Here’s a look at free fireworks displays in the Greater Orlando Central Florida area. Hope everyone has a safe and fun 4th of July!



RED, HOT & BOOM

What: outdoor concerts with Simple Plan, Kate Vonegele, etc.

When: July 3 – 4 - 11pm

Where: Cranes Roost Park

Altamonte Springs Drive

Altamonte Springs

Contact: 407-571-8180



FIREWORKS AT THE FOUNTAIN

What: entertainment, food & activities for children

When: July 4 – 4 - 10pm

Where: Lake Eola Park

101 N. Rosalind Ave

Orlando

Contact: 407-246-31040



FLASHBACK 4TH OF JULY

What: music by Michael Andrew and The Atomic Swing Band

When: July 4 – 5 - 11pm

Where: Celebration Town Center

610 Sycamore St.

Celebration

Contact: 407-566-4007



SANFORD’S FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

What: music by Orleans and friends

When: July 4 – 5:30 - 10:30pm

Where: Fort Mellon Park

East 1st St.

Sanford

Contact: 407-330-5697



HERBERT L. SHUMAN MEMORIAL POPS CONCERT

What: music by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra

When: July 4 – 8pm

Where: Riverfront Park

603 Brevard Ave.

Cocoa

Contact: 321-242-2024



KISSIMMEE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

What: music by Pocket Change & Glenn Cumming and the Session Hounds

When: July 5 – 5 - 9:30pm

Where: Lakefront Park

100 Lakeshore Blvd.

Kissimmee

Contact: 407-518-2501



AVALON PARK’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION

What: all day event of food, rides, entertainment, contests, etc.

When: July 4

Where: Founders Square

13001 Avalon Park Blvd.

Orlando

Contact: 407-658-6565



RED, WHITE & BOOM AT DAYTONA BEACH

What: music by Poco & Last Call

When: July 4 – 5 - 10pm

Where: Daytona Beach Bandshell

250 N. Atlantic Ave.

Daytona Beach

Contact: 386-671-3421



RED, WHITE & BOOM OVER NORTH BREVARD

What: music, food, entertainment, vintage aircraft show, etc.

When: July 4 – 5 - 8pm

Where: Space Coast Regional Airport

660 Rico Road

Titusville

Contact: 407-321-1941

What’s Happening in Central Florida - June 24, 2008

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.



ART



SUMMER FAMILY TOURS: QUEST OF BEAUTY – LOUIS COMFORT TIFFANY

What: for elementary school children and their parents or guardians

When: Tuesday’s in June and July – 45 min. tour

Where: Morse Museum of American Art

445 N. Park Ave.

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-645-5311 x 117



INFORMED VISIONS

What: art of Jamie Baldridge

When: through Aug 1

Where: Millenia Fine Art

555 Lake Destiny Drive

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-304-8100



THIRD THURSDAY’S

What: art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 6-9pm

Where: City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)

The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)

A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)

Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)

Cost: Free



THEATER



DIE MOMMIE DIE

What: comic melodrama by Charles Busch

When: July 11 through Aug 2

Where: Theatre Downtown

2113 N. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $18 adults; $15 seniors and students

Contact: 407-841-0083



MUSIC



TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS

What: the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

When: June 28 – 8pm

Where: OIA

1 Airport Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-825-2055



AUTHOR



THOMAS CAVANAGH

What: author of the Prodigal Son

When: July 11 – 7pm

Where: Barnes & Noble

2418 E. Colonial Drive

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-894-6024



ETC



NATIVE PLANTS

What: landscape restoration of the Genius Reserve in Winter Park

When: July 1 – 7pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-5233



ON-GOING



JUSTICE ILLUMINATED: THE ART OF ARTHUR SZYK

When: M-Th – 9am – 4pm

Fri – 9am – 1pm

Sun – 1pm – 4pm

Where: Holocaust Memorial Research and Education Center of CF

851 N. Maitland Ave.

Maitland

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-628-0555



OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

What’s Happening in Central Florida - June 17, 2008

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

THIRD THURSDAY’S

What: art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 6-9pm

Where: City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)

The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)

A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)

Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)

Cost: Free

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

THEATER

IT’S A GUY THING

What: musical cabaret

When: June 20 – 7:30pm

21^st – 2 & 7:30pm

22^nd – 2pm

Where: Winter Park Playhouse

711 B. Orange Ave.

Winter Park

Cost: $30 eves; 22 matinees; 28 seniors; 20 students

Contact: 407-645-0145

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR

What: Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Weber musical

When: June 20 – 8pm

21^st – 2 & 8 pm

22^nd – 1 & 6:30pm

Where: Carr Performing Arts Center

401 W. Livingston St

Orlando

Cost: $35 - 61

Contact: 407-849-2577

AUTHOR

THOMAS CAVANAGH

What: author of the Prodigal Son

When: July 11 – 7pm

Where: Barnes & Noble

2418 E. Colonial Drive

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-894-6024

ETC

GO DIEGO, GO LIVE: THE GREAT JAGUAR RESCUE

When: June 21 – 11am, 2 & 5pm;

June 22 – 2pm

Where: UCF Arena

50 N. Gemini Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: $14 - 35

Contact: 407-823-3070

CASINO NIGHT

What: benefits the Alzheimers Assn, Canine Companions & the

Employee & Student Volunteer Scholarship Fund

When: June 21 – 7-10pm

Where: The Heritage at Lake Forest

5433 W. SR 46

Sanford

Cost: $20

Contact: 407-322-2207

ALLISON’S TOURNAMENT OF HOPE

What: tourn, luncheon & auction to benefit the Greater Orlando

Children’s Miracle Network

When: June 21 – 7:30am

Where: Celebration Golf Club

701 Golf Park Drive

Celebrationi

Cost: $85

Contact: 407-346-4640

BABY LOVES DISCO

What: dance party for children and parents

When: June 22 – 2pm

Where: Club Firestone

578 N. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $12 or Free if you can’t walk

Contact: 407-872-0066

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

PLAN AHEAD

TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS

What: the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

When: June 28 – 8pm

Where: OIA

1 Airport Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-825-2055

Winter Springs, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Winter Springs, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008. Winter Springs is made up of the zip code 32708. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

There needs to be a disclaimer here. These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time. Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyper-local. What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall. Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door. It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.

Single-Family Homes

25 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $322,606 with 167 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $248,000.

The most expensive home sold for $999,999 and was on the market 378 days. It was a 5 bedroom, 4½ bath, 4-car garage 5860sf conservation lot home in an equestrian community with a screen enclosed pool & spa built in 2006 on .71 acre of land, with a slate fireplace, electric gate with security cameras, painted ceiling in foyer, in-law suite upstairs, master w/Jacuzzi, and a generator for possible outages. The HOA is $100/year.

The least expensive home sold for $126,000 after 139 days on the market. It was a bank-owned 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2- car garage 1305sf home built in 1973 on .19 acre of land with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $293,061 with 119 days on the market.

Condos, Townhomes & Villas

3 homes sold

The average sales price was $123,500 with 281 days on the market.

The median sales price was $123,500.

The most expensive condo sold for $164,000 and is new construction. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 1428sf townhome in a gated community with 42” cabinets, corian countertops, smooth top range, and crown moulding. The community offers a pool and playground with a maintenance fee of $290/month.

The least expensive sold for $83,000 and was on the market for 332 days. It was a bank owned fixer upper 2 bedroom, 1½ bath 1130sf townhome built in 1989 with fenced courtyard. The monthly maintenance fee is $203.

The average sales price a year earlier was $164,267 with 97 days on the market.

Winter Park, Seminole and Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Winter Park, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for May 2008. Winter Park is made up of the zip codes of 32789 & 32792. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

There needs to be a disclaimer here. These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time. Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyper-local. What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall. Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door. It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.

Single-Family Homes

40 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $564,626 with 140 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $276,250.

The most expensive home sold for $5.8M and was on the market for 89 days. It was a 6 bedroom, 7½ baths, lakefront home in 9040sf built in 1993 on 1.95 acres with a circular driveway and 2 garages that can house 6 cars, a boat house w/hoist and jet ski ramp, several fireplaces, aged heart of pine floors, 235’ lake frontage, verandas, etc. with no HOA. The home was listed as a 2-story Louisiana French Colonial.

The least expensive home sold for $124,000 after 113 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home in 754sf built in 1950 on .14 acre with no HOA and was being sold as-is.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $574,155 with 157 days on the market.

Condos, Townhomes & Villas

12 homes sold

The average sales price was $151,443 with 136 days on the market.

The median sales price was $167,495.

The most expensive sold for $300,000 after being on the market for 136 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in 1304sf built in 1981 with a fireplace in an elevator building and downtown Winter Park location. The community offers a pool and tennis courts monthly maintenance is $370.

The least expensive sold for $58,250 and was on the market for 112 days. It was a bank owned fixer upper 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in 1036sf built in 1974. The community offers a pool and tennis courts and a monthly maintenance is $327.

The average sales price a year earlier was $195,407 with 132 days on the market.

Sanford, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

(click images to enlarge)

The following are the market sales statistics for Sanford, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008. Sanford is made up of the zip codes of 32773 & 32771. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

There needs to be a disclaimer here. These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time. Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyper-local. What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall. Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door. It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.

Single-Family Homes

45 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $313,232 with 133 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $185,500.

The most expensive home sold for $1.225M and was new construction. It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath, 2-car garage home in 4321sf built in 2007 in a gated/manned community on .51 acre lot with an infinity-edge pool, spa, tile roof, bonus room, tile and wood floors, double-sided fireplace, etc. The community offers a swimming pool and tennis courts with an HOA of $2200/annually.

The least expensive home sold for $60,150 after 25 days on the market. It was a bank-owned 3 bedroom, 1½ bath, 1-car carport home with 1008sf built in 1971 on .23 acre with no HOA. The home was listed as a handyman special.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $256,683 with 124 days on the market.

Condos, Townhomes & Villas

12 homes sold.

The average sales price was $174,817 with 202 days on the market.

The median sales price was $163,000.

The most expensive sold for $245,000 after 185 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2-car garage townhome in 1914sf with corian countertops, stainless steel appliances, wood floors. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $151.

The least expensive sold for $134,830 and was new home construction. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath townhome in 1196sf. This gated community offers a pool with a maintenance of $410/quarterly.

The average sales price a year earlier was $178,896 with 97 days on the market.

Maitland, Seminole and Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Maitland, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for May 2008. Maitland is made up of the zip code 32751. For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

There needs to be a disclaimer here. These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time. Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyper-local. What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall. Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door. It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.

32751 - Single-Family Homes

11 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $339,264 with 99 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $281,000.

The most expensive home sold for $665,000 with 237 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3-car garage home in 3044sf built in 1996 in a gated community on .32 acre with heated pool, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, 2 fireplaces, paver pool deck and front porch. The community offers tennis courts with an HOA of $170 monthly.

The least expensive home sold for $150,000 after 115 days on the market and was a short sale. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car carport in 1170sf built in 1959 on .20 acre with new kitchen cabinets and countertops and no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $386,544 with 103 days on the market.

32751 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

2 homes sold with an average sales price was $262,450 with 377 days on the market.

The more expensive sold for $299 and was new construction. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2-car garage townhome in 1924sf with tile roof, paver driveway, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, marble vanity tops, 42” cabinets, crown moulding, etc. The community offers a pool and clubhouse with a monthly maintenance of $225.

The less expensive sold for $225,000 and was on the market for 221 days. It was a short sale 2 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage townhome in 1545sf built in 2005 in a gated community with a tile roof, granite countertops, tile, balcony off of master. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $309.

The average sales price a year earlier was $173,289 with 108 days on the market.

Longwood, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

(click images to enlarge)

The following are the market sales statistics for Longwood, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008. Longwood is made up of the zip codes of 32779 & 32750. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

There needs to be a disclaimer here. These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time. Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyper-local. What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall. Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door. It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.

Single-Family Homes

36 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $408,787 with 132 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $279,750.

The most expensive home sold for $1.087M and was on the market for 308 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 4 bath, 4045sf home built in 2004 on .59 acres in a gated manned golf community with a 4-car garage, a screen enclosed swimming pool & spa on a conservation lot with a fireplace, granite countertops, travertine, custom fish tank, cathedral ceilings, etc. The community offers a pool & playground, ball field, tennis courts, volleyball court, beach with a HOA of $573 quarterly.

The least expensive home sold for $182,000 after 206 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home with 1523sf built in 1974 on .18 acre with tile in all living areas, enclosed sunroom and screened patio with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $529,198 with 124 days on the market.

Condos, Townhomes & Villas

4 homes sold.

The average sales price was $157,500 with 228 days on the market.

The median sales price was $160,000.

The most expensive condo sold for $165,000 and was on the market for 379 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1-story, 1-car garage home with 1575sf built in 1984 with screened patio and fireplace, enclosed sunroom, new appliances, roof and exterior siding. The community offers a swimming pool with a monthly maintenance of $245 and an annual HOA of $232.

The least expensive sold for $145,000 and was on the market for 114. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1-car garage 1-story end unit townhome with 991sf built in 1980 in a golf community with fireplace, screened porch, new roof, a/c, carpet & appliances. The community offers a pool & playground with a monthly maintenance of $250 and an annual HOA of $232.

The average sales price a year earlier was $178,629 with 90 days on the market.

For information on Longwood and Seminole County real estate and Longwood and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Longwood and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Longwood and Seminole County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Apopka, Seminole & Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Apopka, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for May 2008. Apopka is made up of the zip codes of 32703 & 32712. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32703 - Single-Family Homes

22 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $190,669 with 168 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $182,284.

The most expensive home sold for $377,500 and was new construction built in 2006. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 2-car garage home in 3749sf home in a gated community with lake access and a community pool and an HOA of $1000 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $18,000 after 48 days on the market. It was a bank owned uninhabitable home built in 1957 on .11 acre with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $256,373 with 131 days on the market.

32703 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

1 sold for $190,000 and was on the market for 152 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 2-car garage townhome in a gated community with 1760sf built in 2001 with screened patio and jacuzzi. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $227.

The average sales price a year earlier was $159,200 with 133 days on the market.

32712 - Single Family Homes

32 homes sold

The average sales price was $251,341 with 152 days on the market.

The median sales price was $238,750.

The most expensive home sold for $445,000 after 403 days on the market. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3-car garage home with 3841sf built in 2005 in a gated community on .36 acre with a screen enclosed self cleaning pool with salt water system, granite countertops, 42” cabinets, stainless steel appliances, double ovens, media room, bonus room, 4-zone a/c. The community has a park and playground with an HOA of $200 quarterly.

The least expensive home sold for $91,000 with 348 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, 1-car detached garage in 880sf built in 1950 on .14 acre with a detached workshop and no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $307,414 with 123 days on the market.

32712 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

1 sold for $145,000 and was on the market for 82 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath 1-car garage townhome in a gated community with 1352sf built in 2006 with 42” cabinets, crown moulding, stainless steel appliances. The community offers a pool and recreation building with a monthly maintenance of $299.78.

The average sales price a year earlier was $216,500 with 153 days on the market.

Altamonte Springs, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

(click images for larger picture)

The following are the market sales statistics for Altamonte Springs, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008. Altamonte Springs is made up of the zip codes of 32701 & 32714. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

There needs to be a disclaimer here. These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time. Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyper-local. What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall. Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door. It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.

Single-Family Homes

21 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $382,738 with 135 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $191,000.

The most expensive home sold for $3.5M and was new construction. It was a 7 bedroom, 9½ bath, 3-car garage lakefront home in 7638sf in Altamonte Springs on .54 acres of land in a gated community with an infinite edge swimming pool and spa, circular staircase, 2 stone fireplaces, morning kitchen in master suite, elevator, wine cellar, etc. The community off a boat ramp with an HOA of $600/quarter and $200 monthly.

The least expensive home sold for $72,000 in 33 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath bank-owned home with 1-car garage in 1056sf built in 1974 located on .24 acre. The home was listed as a handyman special with a pool that needed to be completed. There is no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $325,238 with 100 days on the market.

Condos, Townhomes & Villas

16 homes sold

The average sales price was $120,538 with 175 days on the market.

The median sales price was $114,000.

The most expensive sold for $188,000 and was on the market for 163 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath, 1-car garage townhome in a gated community with 1520sf built in 2005 with lake view, upgraded appliances, fire sprinklers, interior laundry room. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $227.

The least expensive sold for $84,900 and was a condo conversion. It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo in 651sf built in 1971. The community has a pool, tennis courts, basketball court, picnic area & clubhouse with a monthly maintenance of $145.74.

The average sales price a year earlier was $141,450 with 147 days on the market.

What’s Happening in Central Florida - June 10, 2008

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

THEATER

POPCORN FLICKS

What: outdoor screening of Breakfast at Tiffany’s

When: June 12 – 8pm

Where: Central Park

Park Avenue

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-629-0054

MUSIC

OSCEOLA CENTER BIG BAND

When: June 14 – 2pm

Where: Osceola Center for the Arts

2411 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.

Kissimmee

Cost: $10

Contact: 407-846-6257

AUTHOR

JULIE COMPTON

What: author of Tell No Lies

When: June 14 – 1pm

Where: Urban Think Bookstore

625 E. Central Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-650-8004

DANCE

THE DANCER’S POINTE: CELEBRATE FLORIDA

When: June 14 – 2pm

Where: Carr Performing Arts Center

401 W. Livingston St.

Orlando

Cost: $13 & 17.50

Contact: 407-849-2577

ETC

SUMMER BLUES & BBQ

What: wine, food and entertainment

When: June 12 – 5-9pm

Where: City of Sanford

1^st St & Palmetto Ave.

Sanford

Cost: $5 Donation

Contact: 407-302-2586

UNDER A TUSCAN MOON

What: gala to benefit the Shriners Children’s Hospital

When: June 14 – 7:30pm

Where: Shriners Auditorium

2300 Pembrook Drive

Maitland

Cost: $50 – must be purchased before 6/10

Contact: 407-273-0776

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

PLAN AHEAD

CASINO NIGHT

What: benefits the Alzheimers Assn, Canine Companions & the

Employee & Student Volunteer Scholarship Fund

When: June 21 – 7-10pm

Where: The Heritage at Lake Forest

5433 W. SR 46

Sanford

Cost: $20

Contact: 407-322-2207

ALLISON’S TOURNAMENT OF HOPE

What: tourn, luncheon & auction to benefit the Greater Orlando

Children’s Miracle Network

When: June 21 – 7:30am

Where: Celebration Golf Club

701 Golf Park Drive

Celebrationi

Cost: $85

Contact: 407-346-4640

BABY LOVES DISCO

What: dance party for children and parents

When: June 22 – 2pm

Where: Club Firestone

578 N. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $12 or Free if you can’t walk

Contact: 407-872-0066

TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS

What: the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

When: June 28 – 8pm

Where: OIA

1 Airport Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-825-2055

Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for May ‘08

(click on the images to enlarge)

The following are the market sales statistics for Seminole County, Florida for May 2008. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

Single-Family Homes

262 homes sold during the month of May.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $329,856 with 143 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $250,000.

The most expensive home sold for $3.5M and was new construction. It was a 7 bedroom, 9½ bath, 3-car garage lakefront home in 7638sf in Altamonte Springs on .54 acres of land in a gated community with an infinite edge swimming pool and spa, circular staircase, 2 stone fireplaces, morning kitchen in master suite, elevator, wine cellar, etc. The community off a boat ramp with an HOA of $600/quarter and $200 monthly.

The least expensive home sold for $60,150 after 25 days on the market. It was a bank-owned 3 bedroom, 1½ bath home with 1008sf built in 1971 in Sanford on .23 acre with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $344,157 with 118 days on the market.

Condos, Townhomes & Villas

63 homes sold

The average sales price was $155,597 with 182 days on the market.

The median sales price was $160,000.

The most expensive sold for $252,500 and was new construction. It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath, 3 floors, 2-car garage townhome in a gated community with 2088sf built in 2007 in Lake Mary with an elevator, stainless steel appliances, tile roof, etc. The community offers a pool and recreation building with a monthly maintenance of $500.

The least expensive sold for $59,900 after 116 days on the market. It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath fixer upper condo with 781sf built in 1972 in Casselberry. The community offers boat dock, swimming pool, clubhouse, tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $180.

The average sales price a year earlier was $175,584 with 123 days on the market.

2008 Hurricane Season – Pet Plan

It’s easy with all the running around and chaos to sometimes forget about your pets or at least the planning for their safety as well. I was planning on writing this post a little later on, but with the mentions about our pets, I thought I’d do it now.

Here’s a rule of thumb to think about. If it’s dangerous for you, then it’s dangerous for your pets. Didn’t Katrina and others teach us that? If you wait for the last minute and don’t plan, you will most likely leave your pet thinking that they’ll be alright and that you’ll come back for them tomorrow. But you surely don’t know what’s going to happen now, so how can you be so sure of tomorrow. Yes, we’d like to be optimistic, but let’s go one step better – let’s be smart!

OK, enough of a lecture. Now to our beloved friends…

One of the first things you have to consider is where are you going if disaster strikes. Now, we will take further on this in another post, but you have to consider it moreso when your pets are involved. Not all shelters will accept pets, yet there are usually pet shelters available depending on where you live. Oh yes, and they will fill quickly. There is also the possibility of friends and relatives, but you have to remember that this may be a greater imposition than what one has a right to expect.

Additionally, you need to make sure of a couple of things:

Make sure your pet is current on their vaccinations & that you have proof

of such, because the shelters will probably require this.

You’ll need a pet carrier. Because even though you may be at a pet

shelter, you pet will have to be caged, so make sure that it has

enough room.

Have a collar, leash and possibly even a current photo.

Ample food & water for your pet as well as yourself. You’ll also need food

& water bowls as well as any medications and also trash bags and

newspaper for clean-ups.

Don’t forget a favorite toy of your pet and possibly even their bed. Just

something to be a sort of stress-relief.

As the storm approaches, try to keep you pet calm. You should know how intuitive they are. They will sense an impending emergency in you, so that means that you have to try to remain calm as well.

After an experience like this, which may be somewhat traumatic for some animals, be careful until they are fully re-orientated back into their home.

Remember, this will be almost as stressful on your pet as it will be yourself.

But then again, let’s hope that you never need to implement any of these measures!!

What’s Happening in Central Florida - June 3, 2008

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

ART FOR AWARENESS

What: art auction to benefit breast cancer research

When: June 6 – 6:30pm

Where: Buenva Vista Suites

8203 World Center Drive

Orlando

Cost: $10 donation

Contact: 407-856-3898

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

THEATER

DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS

What: outdoor screening of Maverick

When: June 6 – 8:30pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $7 adults; $2 children

Contact: 407-246-2620

HORTON HEARS A WHO

What: screening of the new animated film

When: June 6 – 9pm

Where: UCF Arena

50 N. Gemini Blvd

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-823-3070

MUSIC

JEANS AND JEWELS – AN EVENING WITH FRIENDS

What: music and dancing in a casual atmosphere for the Orlando

Philharmonic Orchestra

When: June 7 – 7pm

Where: Wiinter Park Farmers Market

200 W. New England Ave

Winter Park

Cost: $50 – advance registration required

Contact: 407-896-6700 x 223

ORLANDO SUMMER JAM FESTIVAL

What: rides, concerts & fireworks

When: June 8 – 10am – 9pm

Where: Lake Eola Park

195 N. Rosalind Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

FL YOUNG ARTISTS ORCHESTRA

When: June 8 – 3pm

Where: Trinity Prep Performing Center

5700 Trinity Prep Lane

Winter Park

Cost: Free – donations accepted

Contact: 407-257-8886

AUTHOR

BOB KEALING

What: lecture by the author of Tupperware Unsealed

When: June 6 – noon

Where: Lake Lily Park

840 Lake Lily Drive

Maitland

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-644-2451

ETC

WINEQUEST

What: tastings, dinners & seminars at area restaurants

When: June 6 - 14

Where: Grand Bohemian

325 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $45 – 85 per event

Contact: 407-218-4300

UNDER A TUSCAN MOON

What: gala to benefit the Shriners Children’s Hospital

When: June 14 – 7:30pm

Where: Shriners Auditorium

2300 Pembrook Drive

Maitland

Cost: $50 – must be purchased before 6/10

Contact: 407-273-0776

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

PLAN AHEAD

POPCORN FLICKS

What: outdoor screening of Breakfast at Tiffany’s

When: June 12 – 8pm

Where: Central Park

Park Avenue

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-629-0054

CASINO NIGHT

What: benefits the Alzheimers Assn, Canine Companions & the

Employee & Student Volunteer Scholarship Fund

When: June 21 – 7-10pm

Where: The Heritage at Lake Forest

5433 W. SR 46

Sanford

Cost: $20

Contact: 407-322-2207

BABY LOVES DISCO

What: dance party for children and parents

When: June 22 – 2pm

Where: Club Firestone

578 N. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $12 or Free if you can’t walk

Contact: 407-872-0066

TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS

What: the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

When: June 28 – 8pm

Where: OIA

1 Airport Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-825-2055

2008 Hurricane Season – Create a Disaster Supply Kit

Don’t wait until you hear warnings of a hurricane/tropical storm approaching. Unfortunately, too many people do and are rushing to Home Depot, Lowes, not to forget all of the grocery stores in search of supplies. You can and should be stocked up on this beforehand and in many instances the cost will be less to you because once the supplies start getting low, the prices rise.

Let’s first look at the necessary list of items and then we’ll discuss this a little further:

Water – at least 1 gal per person per day for 3 – 7 days.

Food – for at least 3 – 7 days

Non-perishable canned or packaged goods & juices

Comfort foods - snacks

Cooking utensils and fuel, such as a filled propane tank for a grill

Disposable products – paper plates and plastic utensils

Food for infants and the elderly

Medicines/Prescription Drugs

Flashlights & batteries as well as candles & lighters/matches

Battery operated Radios

Telephones – cell phones charged & a regular corded telephone

Vehicles should have full tanks of gas

Cash & also Credit Cards (yet with a power outage they may not be as easily

used). Don’t forget to have some coins on hand as well.

Keys

Important documents – placed in a watertight container

Insurance policies – house, medical, life

Bank account numbers & passbooks and checkbooks

Social Security cards

Any important documents that you store in your home should be easily

accessible if needed in a moments notice.

Toiletries & Moist wipes

Special items – for babies and the elderly

First Aid Kit

Toys & Games for children and also books and reading material.

Possibly bedding & clothing and surely don’t forget about your pets, but this will be discussed more fully in another post shortly.

This is by far not a complete list, but gives you an idea of some things to have readily available. Additionally, many of these things should be kept in a watertight container as a storm approaches because what use are many of these items if they get wet.

If you know a major storm is approaching possibly turn the refrigerator and freezer up to their coldest settings and make as much ice as possible with the time that you have. Yes, it will cost you a little electricity, but it also may have your refrigerated products last longer. If the power does go out and you need to retrieve something from the refrigerator, think about where it is before opening the door. You don’t want too much cold air escaping. Also, don’t forget that over time your food will thaw and there will be water that will collect in the bottom of your freezer and refrigerator.

I know this may appear to be somewhat scary and overwhelming, but preparing ahead of time will allow you to cope with a situation more easily.

Here’s hoping that you won’t need to use any of these suggestions!

Hurricane Season 2008 Is Here!

Yes, today is the first day of the 2008 Hurricane Season which lasts for the next six months. The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced that it predicts we will have a ‘near normal or above normal Atlantic hurricane season.’ Talk about ambiguity. I trust them to track the storms, but don’t put much weight on their predictions. I think they’ve been more often incorrect in their predictions.

The 2008 tropical storm names are:

Arthur
Bertha
Cristobal
Dolly
Edouard
Fay
Gustav
Hanna
Ike
Josephine
Kyle
Laura
Marco
Nana
Omar
Paloma
Rene
Sally
Teddy
Vicky
Wilfred

In the event of more than 21 names storms, the Greek Alphabet will then be used.

In the next few days, we’ll be discussing several things that you should do to be prepared for weathering a storm. In the meantime, here are some links that you may find useful:

The National Hurricane Center

The National Weather Service

Central Florida Hurricane Center

Hoping that this is an easy and light storm season for all of us!

What’s Happening in Central Florida - May 27, 2008

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

THEATER

DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS

What: outdoor screening of Maverick

When: June 6 – 8:30pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $7 adults; $2 children

Contact: 407-246-2620

HORTON HEARS A WHO

What: screening of the new animated film

When: June 6 – 9pm

Where: UCF Arena

50 N. Gemini Blvd

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-823-3070

MUSIC

A BLUES EVENING V

What: Josh Miller Trio, Smokin’ Torpedoes, etc.

When: May 31 – 7pm

Where: Plaza Theatre

425 N. Bumby Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $12 advance; $15 day of the show

Contact: 407-228-\1220

ALTAMONTE SWINGS

What: big band featuring Linda Cole

When: June 1 – 7pm

Where: Eastmonte Civic Center

830 Magnolia Drive

Altamonte Springs

Cost: $5

Contact: 407-322-7528

ETC

CRANES COMEDY

What: various comedians

When: May 27 – 7pm

Where: Cranes Roost Amphitheater

247 Cranes Roost Blvd.

Altamonte Springs

Cost: $Free

Contact: 407-571-8863

PLANES, TRAINS & BBQ

What: BBQ competition and train rides

When: May 31 – 10am - 6pm

Where: Wooten Park

Main St.

Tavares

Cost: $5

Contact: 352-394-8618

DINNER DATES SINGLES GALA

When: June 1 – 6pm

Where: Timacuan Golf & Country Club

550 Timacuan Blvd.

Lake Mary

Cost: $50

Contact: 407-339-3283

WINEQUEST

What: tastings, dinners & seminars at area restaurants

When: June 6 - 14

Where: Grand Bohemian

325 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $45 – 85 per event

Contact: 407-218-4300

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL

What: 15^th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at

5:45, 7 & 8.

When: through June 1

Where: Epcot

10000 Buena Vista Blvd.

Lake Buena Vista

Cost: park admission - $70 adults, $60 children

PAINT THE TOWN

What: works from traditional to contemporary

When: through June 1 - 8am – 9pm

Where: Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery

400 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

PLAN AHEAD

ART FOR AWARENESS

What: art auction to benefit breast cancer research

When: June 6 – 6:30pm

Where: Buenva Vista Suites

8203 World Center Drive

Orlando

Cost: $10 donation

Contact: 407-856-3898

FL YOUNG ARTISTS ORCHESTRA

When: June 8 – 3pm

Where: Trinity Prep Performing Center

5700 Trinity Prep Lane

Winter Park

Cost: Free – donations accepted

Contact: 407-257-8886

POPCORN FLICKS

What: outdoor screening of Breakfast at Tiffany’s

When: June 12 – 8pm

Where: Central Park

Park Avenue

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-629-0054

BABY LOVES DISCO

What: dance party for children and parents

When: June 22 – 2pm

Where: Club Firestone

578 N. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $12 or Free if you can’t walk

Contact: 407-872-0066

What’s Happening in Central Florida - May 21, 2008

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

THEATER

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

What: Joseph Robinette play adapted from the C. S. Lewis novel

When: April 18 through May 25

Fridays – 7pm

Saturdays – 2 & 7pm

Sundays – 2pm

Where: Orlando Repertory Theatre

1001 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $15 adults, $10 children 17 and younger

Contact: 407-896-7365

ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL

What: 64 independent movies

When: May 15 - 26

Where: Orlando Loch Haven Park

Mills & Princeton Aves.

Orlando

Cost: Individual show admissions; Fringe Button $6

Contact: 407-648-0077

AUTHOR

JULIE COMPTON

What: book signing of Tell No Lies

When: May 24 – 2pm

Where: Borders Books & Music

600 N. Orange Ave.

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-3300

ETC

ANTHOLOGY OF AMERICAN CHEESE

What: Wine and cheese tasting

When: May 21 – 6:30pm

Where: Cheese Shop on Park

329 N. Park Ave.

Winter Park

Cost: $15 advance; $20 at the door

Contact: 407-644-7296

THE OUTER TOONS

What: musical cartoon education show

When: May 22 – 8pm

May 23 – 9pm

May 24 – 11am & 2pm

Where: Plaza Theatre

425 N. Bumby Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $10 advance; $12 at the door

Contact: 407-228-1220

ALOHA FRIDAY

What: music and Polynesian refreshments

When: May 23 – 6:30pm

Where: Royal Pacific Resort

6300 Hollywood Way

Orlando

Cost: $25

Contact: 407-503-3200

OASIS 21

What: Sci-fi convention with gaming events and guest authors

When: May 23 – 25

Where: Downtown Orlando Sheraton

60 S. Ivanhoe Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: $12 – 18 adults; $8 – 12 children; $35 three day pass

Contact: 407-376-7359

ZELLWOOD CORN FESTIVAL

When: May 24 – 25 – noon – 10pm

Where: Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival Grounds

4253 W. Ponkan Road

Zellwood

Cost: $25 – advance; $30 – at the gate; 12 & under free with a

paid adult

Contact: 407-886-0014

CRANES COMEDY

What: various comedians

When: May 27 – 7pm

Where: Cranes Roost Amphitheater

247 Cranes Roost Blvd.

Altamonte Springs

Cost: $Free

Contact: 407-571-8863

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL

What: 15^th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at

5:45, 7 & 8.

When: through June 1

Where: Epcot

10000 Buena Vista Blvd.

Lake Buena Vista

Cost: park admission - $70 adults, $60 children

PAINT THE TOWN

What: works from traditional to contemporary

When: through June 1 - 8am – 9pm

Where: Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery

400 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

PLAN AHEAD

PLANES, TRAINS & BBQ

What: BBQ competition and train rides

When: May 31 – 10am - 6pm

Where: Wooten Park

Main St.

Tavares

Cost: $5

Contact: 352-394-8618

DINNER DATES SINGLES GALA

When: June 1 – 6pm

Where: Timacuan Golf & Country Club

550 Timacuan Blvd.

Lake Mary

Cost: $50

Contact: 407-339-3283

DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS

What: outdoor screening of Maverick

When: June 6 – 8:30pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $7 adults; $2 children

Contact: 407-246-2620

HORTON HEARS A WHO

What: screening of the new animated film

When: June 6 – 9pm

Where: UCF Arena

50 N. Gemini Blvd

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-823-3070

WINEQUEST

What: tastings, dinners & seminars at area restaurants

When: June 6 - 14

Where: Grand Bohemian

325 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $45 – 85 per event

Contact: 407-218-4300

What’s Happening in Central Florida - 5/13

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

THEATER

ORLANDO CABARET FESTIVAL

When: May 1 - 18

Where: Mad Cow Theatre

105 S. Magnolia Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $15 – 20 evenings and weekends; $12 matinees

Contact: 407-297-8788

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

What: Joseph Robinette play adapted from the C. S. Lewis novel

When: April 18 through May 25

Fridays – 7pm

Saturdays – 2 & 7pm

Sundays – 2pm

Where: Orlando Repertory Theatre

1001 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $15 adults, $10 children 17 and younger

Contact: 407-896-7365

ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL

When: May 15 - 26

Where: Orlando Loch Haven Park

Mills & Princeton Aves.

Orlando

Cost: Individual show admissions; Fringe Button $6

Contact: 407-648-0077

ETC

FRIENDS OF THE WEKIVA RIVER

What: Benefit with speaker Wes Skiles

When: May 16 – 6:30pm

Where: Heathrow County Club

1200 Bridgewater Drive

Heathrow

Cost: $50

Contact: 407-647-7487

GREAT ORLANDO BEER FESTIVAL

When: May 17

Where: Downtown Orlando

42 W. Concord St.

Orlando

Cost: $25 advance; $35 day of the event

Contact: 321-277-5079

CHARITY CHALLENGE XXIII

What: athletic competitions to benefit local charities

When: May 17 – 10am - 7pm

Where: Florida Citrus Bowl

1610 W. Church St.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-849-2020

FUR BOWL

What: bowl-a-thon to benefit Animal Welfare Alliance of Cent. FL

When: May 17 – 1pm

Where: AMF Bowling Lanes

115 Wilshire Blvd.

Casselberry

Cost: Call

Contact: 407-462-2320

GRANDMA PARTY BAZAAR

What: crafts, art & entertainment from local vendors

When: May 18 – 10am to sunset

Where: Stardust Video & Coffee

1842 E. Winter Park Road

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-623-3393

TASTE OF MAITLAND

What: food and beverage vendors from area restaurants

When: May 19 – 5:30 - 8pm

Where: Lake Lily Park

840 Lake Lily Drive

Maitland

Cost: $12 advance; $15 at the door

Contact: 407-644-0741

ANTHOLOGY OF AMERICAN CHEESE

What: Wine and cheese tasting

When: May 21 – 6:30pm

Where: Cheese Shop on Park

329 N. Park Ave.

Winter Park

Cost: $15 advance; $20 at the door

Contact: 407-644-7296

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL

What: 15^th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at

5:45, 7 & 8.

When: through June 1

Where: Epcot

10000 Buena Vista Blvd.

Lake Buena Vista

Cost: park admission - $70 adults, $60 children

PAINT THE TOWN

What: works from traditional to contemporary

When: through June 1 - 8am – 9pm

Where: Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery

400 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

PLAN AHEAD

THE OUTER TOONS

What: musical cartoon education show

When: May 22 – 8pm

May 23 – 9pm

May 24 – 11am & 2pm

Where: Plaza Theatre

425 N. Bumby Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $10 advance; $12 at the door

Contact: 407-228-1220

OASIS 21

What: Sci-fi convention with gaming events and guest authors

When: May 23 – 25

Where: Downtown Orlando Sheraton

60 S. Ivanhoe Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: $12 – 18 adults; $8 – 12 children; $35 three day pass

Contact: 407-376-7359

ZELLWOOD CORN FESTIVAL

When: May 24 – 25 – noon – 10pm

Where: Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival Grounds

4253 W. Ponkan Road

Zellwood

Cost: $25 – advance; $30 – at the gate; 12 & under free with a

paid adult

Contact: 407-886-0014

DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS

What: outdoor screening of Maverick

When: June 6 – 8:30pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $7 adults; $2 children

Contact: 407-246-2620

WINEQUEST

What: tastings, dinners & seminars at area restaurants

When: June 6 - 14

Where: Grand Bohemian

325 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $45 – 85 per event

Contact: 407-218-4300

Winter Park, Seminole and Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Winter Park, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for April 2008. Winter Park is made up of the zip codes of 32789 & 32792. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32789 - Single-Family Homes

11 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $858,000 with 187 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $424,000.

The most expensive home sold for $2.349M and was on the market for 505 days. It was a 4 bedroom, 5½ baths, 3-car garage lakefront home in 4913sf built in 1990 on .69 acres on a chain of lakes with a circular driveway, $250K swimming pool and spa, a boat house w/hoist with no HOA.

The least expensive home sold for $187,000 after 156 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 2 bath home in 1623sf built in 1952 on .17 acre with no HOA. This home was listed as a fixer-upper.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $835,513 with 181 days on the market.

32789 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

10 homes sold

The average sales price was $348,850 with 276 days on the market.

The median sales price was $132,500.

The most expensive was brand new and it sold for $1,091,250. It was a 3 bedroom, 3½ bath, 2-story townhome in 3327sf with an interior atrium, 2 balconies, granite countertops, tile floors, Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances & an elevator. The monthly maintenance is $641.24.

The least expensive sold for $102,500 and was on the market for 237 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 1½ bath 2-story townhome in 2256sf built in 1979 and renovated to include granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, new flooring, kitchen and baths. The monthly maintenance is $50.

The average sales price a year earlier was $158,450 with 134 days on the market.

32792 - Single Family Homes

13 homes sold

The average sales price was $330,715 with 120 days on the market.

The median sales price was $230,000.

The most expensive home sold for $1.39M with 307 days on the market. It was a 5 bedroom, 3½ bath, 3-car garage lakefront home with 4822sf built in 1999 on 1.8 acres with pecan flooring, fireplace, boat house and hoist, 2 laundry rooms, 20’ ceilings, etc with no HOA.

The least expensive home sold for $193,500 with 133 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, 2-car carport pool home in 1374sf built in 1960 on .21 acre with terrazzo and tile floors, bonus room and no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $266,787 with 124 days on the market.

32792 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

10 homes sold

The average sales price was $167,446 with 219 days on the market.

The median sales price was $179,990.

The most expensive sold for $195,000 and was brand new construction. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage 2-story townhome with 1432sf built in 2006 with 42” cabinets, stainless steel appliances and tile in all living areas. The monthly maintenance is $125.

The least expensive condo sold for $102,500 with 124 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in 1020sf built in 1974 which has been renovated with new wood and tile floors, appliances, kitchen, bathrooms, plumbing and electrical. The community offers a pool, tennis courts and clubhouse with a monthly maintenance of $230 plus a $27 monthly assessment.

The average sales price a year earlier was $154,538 with 98 days on the market.

Sanford, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Sanford, Seminole County, Florida for April 2008. Sanford is made up of the zip codes of 32773 & 32771. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32773 - Single-Family Homes

10 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $180,495 with 132 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $185,500.

The most expensive home sold for $225,450 after 139 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2-car garage home in 2321sf built in 2002 in a gated community on .13 acre lot with a bonus room, tile floors and corian countertops. The community offers a swimming pool with an HOA of $194.33/semi-annually.

The least expensive home sold for $130,000 after 157 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 1½ bath, 1-car garage home with 956sf built in 1972 on .21 acre with a deck and fenced yard, newer roof & a/c, new range, crown moulding and tile and no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $227,754 with 99 days on the market.

32773 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

5 homes sold.

The average sales price was $116,204 with 128 days on the market.

The median sales price was $110,000.

The most expensive was brand new and it sold for $152,531. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath townhome in 1415sf with tile and granite countertops. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $151.

The least expensive sold for $73,000 and was on the market for 156 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath 3^rd floor pond frontage condo with 975sf built in 1985 with new, blind, tile, paint, washer, dryer, appliances and newer a/c. The gated community offers a pool and tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $249.

The average sales price a year earlier was $173,838 with 119 days on the market.

32771 - Single Family Homes

25 homes sold

The average sales price was $343,990 with 146 days on the market.

The median sales price was $240,990.

The most expensive home sold for $1.55M and was on the market for 112 days. It was a 5 bedroom, 4½ bath, 3-car garage lakefront home with a guest house in 7732sf built in 1998 on 1.18 acres of land, with swimming pool and spa, boat house with hoist, boat ramp, kitchen with a stacked stone fireplace. The HOA of $450/year.

The least expensive home was sold for $60,000 with 197 days on the market. It was a bank-owned 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with no garage in 1304sf built in 1961 on .14 acre with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $392,662 with 140 days on the market.

32771 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

7 homes sold

The average sales price was $150,031 with 87 days on the market.

The median sales price was $144,200.

The most expensive sold for $197,500 after 552 days on the market. It was a bank owned 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2-car garage 2-story townhome with 1914sf built in 2006 located in a gated community. The community offers a pool, playground and fitness center with a monthly maintenance $357.

The least expensive sold at Absolute Auction for $104,000. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1-car garage townhome in 1266sf built in 2002 in a gated community. The community offers a pool, clubhouse & billiards with a monthly maintenance of $216.11.

The average sales price a year earlier was $206,377 with 77 days on the market.

Oviedo, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

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The following are the market sales statistics for Oviedo, Seminole County, Florida for April 2008. Oviedo is made up of the zip codes of 32765 & 32766, which is partly considered Chuluota. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32765 - Single-Family Homes

36 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $272,694 with 168 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $218,825.

The most expensive home sold for $647,500 and was on the market for 380 days. It was a 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3-car garage pond frontage home in 3677sf built in 2006 on .34 acre in a gated community with a swimming pool, summer kitchen, granite countertops, stainless steel, jacuzzi, tile and has never been lived in. The community offers a playground with a HOA of $450/quarter.

The least expensive home sold for $79,900 after 30 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath 840sf home with no garage built in 1924 on .22 acre and was listed as a ‘fixer-upper’ with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $306,019 with 126 days on the market.

32765 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

9 homes sold

The average sales price was $205,434 with 107 days on the market.

The median sales price was $212,490.

The most expensive condo sold for $233,490 and was new construction. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 1836sf townhome with a 2-car garage with tile, 42" cabinets, jacuzzi and more. This gated community offers a pool with a maintenance of $400/quarter.

The least expensive sold for $150,000 after 301 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath 1296sf townhome with a 1-car garage built in 2005. The community offers a pool and playground with a maintenance of $618.75/quarter.

The average sales price a year earlier was $198,500 with 98 days on the market.

32766 - Single Family Homes

17 homes sold

The average sales price was $289,368 with 142 days on the market.

The median sales price was $275,000.

The most expensive home sold for $510,000 after 87 days on the market. It was a 5 bedroom, 4½ bath, 3 car-garage home with 4319sf built in 2005 on .39 acre that was listed as being ‘in foreclosure’ with a heated pool and spa, granite countertops, tile, etc. The community offers a pool with a HOA of $300 quarterly.

The least expensive home sold for $77,500 in 168 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath 1293sf home built in 1965 located on .25 acre and was listed as being ‘in need of total interior rehab’ with no HOA.

he average sales price a year earlier was $353,449 with 133 days on the market.

32766 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

None sold in the month of April as there are very few in this zip code.

Maitland, Seminole and Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Maitland, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for April 2008. Maitland is made up of the zip code 32751. For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32751 - Single-Family Homes

6 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $363,333 with 1481 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $300,000.

The most expensive home sold for $765,000 with 361 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 2-car garage lakefront home in 2840sf built in 1970 on .34 acre on a Chain of Lakes which has been renovated with a new boat house, heated pool with spa and paver deck, bamboo wood floors, tile, granite countertops, solid oak cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, jacuzzi with an optional HOA of $200 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $210,000 after 83 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage in 1442sf built in 1958 on .17 acre which has been renovated with a new kitchen, carpet, wood flooring, plumbing and electrical and no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $350,899 with 121 days on the market.

32751 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

3 homes sold

The average sales price was $110,167 with 136 days on the market.

The median sales price was $115,000.

The most expensive condo sold for $126,500 with 163 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath end-unit in 1087sf built in 1979 which has been remodeled and with new appliances. The community offers a pool and the monthly maintenance of $320.

The least expensive condo sold for $89,000 and was on the market for 45 days. It was a bank owned 2 bedroom, 2 bath 2nd floor conversion condo in 1051sf built in 1973 which was completely redone including new appliances including a washer & dryer. The community offers 3 pools with a monthly maintenance of $169.

The average sales price a year earlier was $187,882 with 124 days on the market.

Longwood, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

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The following are the market sales statistics for Longwood, Seminole County, Florida for April 2008. Longwood is made up of the zip codes of 32779 & 32750. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32779 - Single-Family Homes

15 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $521,333 with 152 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $362,500.

The most expensive home sold for $1,195,000 and was on the market for 197 days. It was a 4 bedroom, 4 bath 4143sf home built in 2001 on .77 acres in a gated manned golf community with a 3-car garage, a screen enclosed swimming pool & spa on a pond with a fireplace, granite countertops, home automation system, etc. The community offers a pool & playground with a HOA of $688.24 quarterly.

The least expensive home sold for $234,500 after 413 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home with 1801sf built in 1983 on .21 acre with a swimming pool and spa, fireplace, newer tile and wood flooring with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $567,936 with 149 days on the market.

32779 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

4 homes sold.

The average sales price was $174,750 with 276 days on the market.

The median sales price was $161,500.

The most expensive condo sold for $245,000 and was on the market for 227 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 2-story, 2-car garage home with 1789sf built in 1985 with screened patio and fireplace. The community offers a swimming pool with a monthly maintenance of $368.

The least expensive sold for $131,000 and was on the market for 243. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1-car garage 1-story end unit villa with 1086sf built in 1984 with tile roofs in a golf community. The community offers a pool & tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $250 and an annual HOA of $232.

The average sales price a year earlier was $251,975 with 118 days on the market.

32750 - Single Family Homes

16 homes sold

The average sales price was $228,594 with 171 days on the market.

The median sales price was $203,000.

The most expensive home sold for $400,000 with 28 days on the market. It was a 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 2-car garage home with 2771sf built in 1996 on .26 acres with a solar heated pool and spa, travertine tile and brazilian wood floors, crown mouldings and gas tiki torches. The HOA is $112 quarterly.

The other home sold for $145,000 with 129 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with no garage in 1396sf built in 1993 with tile floors, newer roof and stainless steel appliances with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $292,510 with 107 days on the market.

32750 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

No homes sold during this period.

Lake Mary, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Lake Mary, Seminole County, Florida for April 2008. Lake Mary is made up of the zip code 32746. For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32746 - Single-Family Homes

24 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $365,471 with 153 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $323,750.

The most expensive home sold for $975,000 and was on the market for 304 days. It was a 5 bedroom, 5 bath, 3-car garage home with 4664sf home built in 2005 in a gated community on .67 acre with a heated spa, tray ceilings, crown mouldings, granite countertops, etc. The HOA is $1300/semi-annually.

The least expensive home sold for $205,000 after 190 days on the market. It was a bank owned 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home in 1895sf built in 2002 on .11 acre with tile and a fenced yard. The community offers a pool and clubhouse with an HOA of $204 quarterly.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $586,066 with 124 days on the market.

32746 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

7 homes sold

The average sales price was $200,199 with 117 days on the market.

The median sales price was $216,000.

The most expensive townhome was new construction and sold for $324,900. It was a 3 bedroom, 3½ bath, 2-car garage 3-story townhome in 2280sf in a gated community with tile roofs, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. The community offers a pool, fitness area and playground with a monthly maintenance of $298.

The least expensive sold for $99,000 and was on the market for 133 days. It was a bank owned 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2^nd floor previous condo conversion 899sf built in. The community offers a pool and rec building with a monthly maintenance of $242.55.

The average sales price a year earlier was $170,399 with 101 days on the market.

Casselberry, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

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The following are the market sales statistics for Casselberry, Seminole County, Florida for April 2008. Casselberry is made up of the zip code 32707. For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32707 - Single-Family Homes

15 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $220,333 with 121 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $220,000.

The most expensive home sold for $333,000 after 84 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2-car garage split-plan home in 2251sf built in 1987 on .30 acre with a solar heated pool and spa, fireplace, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, wood floors, and renovated baths. The HOA is $65 quarterly.

The least expensive home sold for $100,000 after 27 days on the market. It was a bank owned 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home in 1430sf built in 1973 on .20 acre. with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $232,486 with 114 days on the market.

32707 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

4 homes sold

The average sales price was $142,193 with 248 days on the market.

The median sales price was $129,636.

The most expensive sold for $212,500 after 640 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath corner unit condo with underground parking for 1 car in 1992sf built in 2002 in a gated and lakefront community with screened balcony. The community offers a pool, tennis courts, dock & lake access with a monthly maintenance is $341.26.

The least expensive sold for $97,000 and was on the market for 233 days and listed as a ‘short sale’ but was not. It was a 2 bedroom, 1½ bath 2-story townhome with 1120sf built in 1970 that has just been renovated and has new appliances. This is a waterfront community on a ski lake with a dock and a monthly maintenance of $246.

The average sales price a year earlier was $132,960 with 119 days on the market.

You will note on the map that Casselberry is listed as 32730. Although this might be so, it is also known as Fern Park.

Apopka, Seminole & Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Apopka, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for April 2008. Apopka is made up of the zip codes of 32703 & 32712. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32703 - Single-Family Homes

21 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $227,840 with 132 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $215,000.

The most expensive home sold for $421,495 and was new construction. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 2-car garage home in 3512sf home in a gated community with lake access and an HOA of $1000 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $101,500 after 125 days on the market. It was a bank owned 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage home with 1558sf built in 1987 on .08 acre and was listed as a fixer-upper. The HOA is $122/year.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $219,139 with 111 days on the market.

32703 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

1 sold for $139,900 and was on the market for 75 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath 2-story townhome with 1390sf built in 1989 with screened patio, newer carpeting & wood floors, tile in the wet areas and fresh paint. The community offers a pool and tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $183.

The average sales price a year earlier was $189,900 with 178 days on the market.

32712 - Single Family Homes

26 homes sold

The average sales price was $259,632 with 127 days on the market.

The median sales price was $235,000.

The most expensive home was brand new and sold for $468,806. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3-car garage home with 3634sf built in 2007 in a gated community on over ½ acre with tile and granite countertops. The community has a park and the HOA is $900 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $115,000 with 191 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, 2-car carport in 1404sf built in 1954 on .30 acre with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $302,083 with 123 days on the market.

32712 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

3 homes sold.

The average sales price was $118,296 with 138 days on the market.

The median sales price was $124,500.

The most expensive sold for $127,500 with 91 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath golf front furnished villa with 965sf built in 1974 located in a golf community with an enclosed patio. The monthly maintenance is $213.

The least expensive sold for $102,889 with 177 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath bank-owned home with 1-car garage in 1788sf built in 1980 in a golf course community. The monthly maintenance is $278 with a quarterly special assessment of $512.14 with the seller paying $2500 towards the HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $176,493 with 144 days on the market.

Apopka, Seminole & Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Apopka, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for April 2008. Apopka is made up of the zip codes of 32703 & 32712. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32703 - Single-Family Homes

21 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $227,840 with 132 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $215,000.

The most expensive home sold for $421,495 and was new construction. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 2-car garage home in 3512sf home in a gated community with lake access and an HOA of $1000 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $101,500 after 125 days on the market. It was a bank owned 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage home with 1558sf built in 1987 on .08 acre and was listed as a fixer-upper. The HOA is $122/year.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $219,139 with 111 days on the market.

32703 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

1 sold for $139,900 and was on the market for 75 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath 2-story townhome with 1390sf built in 1989 with screened patio, newer carpeting & wood floors, tile in the wet areas and fresh paint. The community offers a pool and tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $183.

The average sales price a year earlier was $189,900 with 178 days on the market.

32712 - Single Family Homes

26 homes sold

The average sales price was $259,632 with 127 days on the market.

The median sales price was $235,000.

The most expensive home was brand new and sold for $468,806. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3-car garage home with 3634sf built in 2007 in a gated community on over ½ acre with tile and granite countertops. The community has a park and the HOA is $900 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $115,000 with 191 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, 2-car carport in 1404sf built in 1954 on .30 acre with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $302,083 with 123 days on the market.

32712 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

3 homes sold.

The average sales price was $118,296 with 138 days on the market.

The median sales price was $124,500.

The most expensive sold for $127,500 with 91 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath golf front furnished villa with 965sf built in 1974 located in a golf community with an enclosed patio. The monthly maintenance is $213.

The least expensive sold for $102,889 with 177 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath bank-owned home with 1-car garage in 1788sf built in 1980 in a golf course community. The monthly maintenance is $278 with a quarterly special assessment of $512.14 with the seller paying $2500 towards the HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $176,493 with 144 days on the market.

Apopka, Seminole & Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Apopka, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for April 2008. Apopka is made up of the zip codes of 32703 & 32712. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32703 - Single-Family Homes

21 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $227,840 with 132 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $215,000.

The most expensive home sold for $421,495 and was new construction. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 2-car garage home in 3512sf home in a gated community with lake access and an HOA of $1000 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $101,500 after 125 days on the market. It was a bank owned 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage home with 1558sf built in 1987 on .08 acre and was listed as a fixer-upper. The HOA is $122/year.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $219,139 with 111 days on the market.

32703 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

1 sold for $139,900 and was on the market for 75 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath 2-story townhome with 1390sf built in 1989 with screened patio, newer carpeting & wood floors, tile in the wet areas and fresh paint. The community offers a pool and tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $183.

The average sales price a year earlier was $189,900 with 178 days on the market.

32712 - Single Family Homes

26 homes sold

The average sales price was $259,632 with 127 days on the market.

The median sales price was $235,000.

The most expensive home was brand new and sold for $468,806. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3-car garage home with 3634sf built in 2007 in a gated community on over ½ acre with tile and granite countertops. The community has a park and the HOA is $900 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $115,000 with 191 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, 2-car carport in 1404sf built in 1954 on .30 acre with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $302,083 with 123 days on the market.

32712 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

3 homes sold.

The average sales price was $118,296 with 138 days on the market.

The median sales price was $124,500.

The most expensive sold for $127,500 with 91 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath golf front furnished villa with 965sf built in 1974 located in a golf community with an enclosed patio. The monthly maintenance is $213.

The least expensive sold for $102,889 with 177 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath bank-owned home with 1-car garage in 1788sf built in 1980 in a golf course community. The monthly maintenance is $278 with a quarterly special assessment of $512.14 with the seller paying $2500 towards the HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $176,493 with 144 days on the market.

Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for April ‘08

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The following are the market sales statistics for Seminole County, Florida for April 2008. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

Single-Family Homes

215 homes sold during the month of April.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $300,916 with 146 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $237,500.

The most expensive home sold for $1.55M and was on the market for 112 days. It was a 5 bedroom, 4½ bath, 3-car garage lakefront home with a guest house in 7732sf built in 1998 in Sanford on 1.18 acres of land, with swimming pool and spa, boat house with hoist, boat ramp, kitchen with a stacked stone fireplace. The HOA of $450/year.

The least expensive home sold for $60,000 after 197 days on the market. It was a bank-owned 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with 1304sf built in 1961 in Sanford on .14 acre being sold as-is with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $359,193 with 123 days on the market.

Condos, Townhomes & Villas

61 homes sold

The average sales price was $160,730 with 162 days on the market.

The median sales price was $150,000.

The most expensive condo sold for $455,500 and was on the market for 60 days. It was a 4 bedroom, 2 ½ bath, 2-car garage in a gated community with 2470sf built in 2006 in Altamonte Springs with an elevator, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, tile roof, wood floors, plantation shutters, volume ceilings, crown moulding, wrap around balcony. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $416.

The least expensive condo for $56,000 after 130 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath bank-owned condo with 1157sf built in 1976 in Altamonte Springs. The community offers a pool, clubhouse, tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $238.47.

The average sales price a year earlier was $158,946 with 118 days on the market.

What’s Happening in Central Florida - April 28, 2008

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

SPRING SHOW

What: works by Frank Milo, Stefano Cecchini, Thomas Arvid &

others

When: through April 30

Where: Grand Bohemian Gallery

325 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-581-4801

HIPPIES USE SIDE DOOR

When: through May 10

Where: Boom-Art Gallery

1821 N. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-281-0246

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

THEATER

LALALA SHOW

When: May 3 – 7:30pm

Where: Helen Stairs Theatre

203 Magnolia Ave.

Sanford

Cost: $16 – 22 general admission; $12 children and seniors

Contact: 407-321-8111

ORLANDO CABARET FESTIVAL

When: May 1 - 18

Where: Mad Cow Theatre

105 S. Magnolia Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $15 – 20 evenings and weekends; $12 matinees

Contact: 407-297-8788

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

What: Joseph Robinette play adapted from the C. S. Lewis novel

When: April 18 through May 25

Fridays – 7pm

Saturdays – 2 & 7pm

Sundays – 2pm

Where: Orlando Repertory Theatre

1001 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $15 adults, $10 children 17 and younger

Contact: 407-896-7365

WICKED

What: touring production

When: April 23 through May 4

Tuesdays - Saturdays – 8pm

Sundays – 1pm

2pm Matinees – April 24, 26, 30

6:30pm – April 27

Where: Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre

401 W. Livingston St

Orlando

Cost: $35 - 90

Contact: 407-849-2577

MUSIC

DANCING UNDER THE STARS

What: Orlando Philharmonic Ochestra

When: May 3 – 8pm

Where: The Springs

400 Woodbridge Road

Longwood

Cost: $30 advance; $35 day of show

Contact: 407-770-0071

ETC

DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS

What: Outdoor screening of Moonstruck

When May 2 – 8:30pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Avenue

Orlando

Cost: $7 adults; $2 children

Contact: 407-246-2620

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION AND PREDATORY LENDING

What: The City of Orlando will put on a presentation to educate

residents about resources available to ease the effects of

foreclosures and predatory lending practices. HUD, Freddie

Mac and Titanium Solutions will present.

When: May 3 – 9am – 1pm

Where: Northwest Community Center

3955 Country Club Drive

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-246-2708

KID FEST

What: activities and refreshments

When: May 3 – 10am – 3pm

Where: Cranes Roost Park

Altamonte Springs Drive

Altamonte Springs

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-571-8863

RECORD & CD SHOW

When: May 4 – 7:30am – 4pm

Where: Central Florida Fairgrounds

4603 W. Colonial Drive

Orlando

Cost: $10 before 10am; $3 after

Contact: 352-665-0259

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays – 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL

What: 15^th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at 5:45, 7 & 8.

When: through June 1

Where: Epcot

10000 Buena Vista Blvd.

Lake Buena Vista

Cost: park admission - $70 adults, $60 children

PAINT THE TOWN

What: works from traditional to contemporary

When: through June 1 - 8am – 9pm

Where: Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery

400 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

PLAN AHEAD

POPCORN FLICKS

What: Outdoor screening of Jailhouse Rock

When: May 8 – 8pm

Where: Central Park

Park Ave.

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-629-0054

ARMY OF HOPE

What: gala and auction to benefit families of military casualties

When: May 9 – 7pm

Where: Global Gallery at the Plaza

183 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $100

Contact: 407-588-1260

ROBODOC

What: Premiere screening of the Stephen Maddocks comedy

When May 10 - 11pm

Where: Hard Rock Live

Universal CityWalk

Orlando

Cost: $35 advance tickets; $45 day of the show

Contact: 407-351-5483

SPRING JAZZ STROLL

When: May 10 – 7PM

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $17

Contact: 407-246-2620

ORANGE TREE ANTIQUES SHOW

When: May 9 – noon -5pm

May 10 – 10am – 5pm

May 11 – 11am – 4pm

Where: Maitland Civic Center

641 S. Maitland Ave

Maitland

Cost: $4

Contact: 407-644-4547

ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL

When: May 15 - 26

Where: Orlando Loch Haven Park

Mills & Princeton Aves.

Orlando

Cost: Individual show admissions; Fringe Button $6

Contact: 407-648-0077

GREAT ORLANDO BEER FESTIVAL

When: May 17

Where: Downtown Orlando

42 W. Concord St.

Orlando

Cost: $25 advance; $35 day of the event

Contact: 321-277-5079

ZELLWOOD CORN FESTIVAL

When: May 24 – 25 – noon – 10pm

Where: Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival Grounds

4253 W. Ponkan Road

Zellwood

Cost: $25 – advance; $30 – at the gate; 12 & under free with a

paid adult

Contact: 407-886-0014

What’s Happening in Central Florida

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area through April 17^th. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

HIPPIES USE SIDE DOOR

When: through May 10

Where: Boom-Art Gallery

1821 N. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-281-0246

JURIED STUDENT ART EXHIBIT

When: through April 28

Where: Seminole Community College Fine Arts Gallery

100 Weldon Blvd.

Sanford

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-708-2040

SPRING SHOW

What: works by Frank Milo, Stefano Cecchini, Thomas Arvid &

others

When: through April 30

Where: Grand Bohemian Gallery

325 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-581-4801

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET

When: through June 22

Where: Mennello Museum of American Art

900 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free

Contact: 407-246-4278

MUSIC

LIFEHOUSE

When: April 16 - 8pm

Where: Hard Rock Live

6050 Universal Blvd.

Orlando

Cost: $25 - 32.50

Contact: 407-351-5483

VALENCIA STRING ENSEMBLE

When: April 17 - 1pm

Where: Valencia Community College East

701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-582-2329

ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

When: April 19 - 2 & 8pm

Where: Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre

401 W. Livingston St.

Orlando

Cost: $13 - 62

Contact: 407-770-0071

THEATER

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

What: Joseph Robinette play adapted from the C. S. Lewis novel

When: April 18 through May 25

Fridays - 7pm

Saturdays - 2 & 7pm

Sundays - 2pm

Where: Orlando Repertory Theatre

1001 E. Princeton St.

Orlando

Cost: $15 adults, $10 children 17 and younger

Contact: 407-896-7365

WICKED

What: touring production

When: April 23 through May 4

Tuesdays - Saturdays - 8pm

Sundays - 1pm

2pm Matinees - April 24, 26, 30

6:30pm - April 27

Where: Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre

401 W. Livingston St

Orlando

Cost: $35 - 90

Contact: 407-849-2577

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

What: Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical

When: through April 20

Fridays & Saturdays - 7:30pm

Sundays - 2pm

Where: Helen Stairs Theatre

203 Magnolia Ave

Sanford

Cost: $15 -23 adults, $10 students

Contact: 407-321-8111

MID-LIFE: THE CRISIS MUSICAL

What: production of the Jim & Bob Walton musical

When: through April 19

Fridays - 7:30pm

Saturdays - 2 & 7:30pm

Where: Winter Park Playhouse

711-B Orange Ave.

Winter Park

Cost: $30 general, $28 seniors, $22 matinees, $20 students and

industry professionals

LEMONADE

What: Doug Ba'aser and Tommy Wooten comedy

When: April 19 - 8pm

Where: Footlight Theater - Parliament House

410 N. Orange Blossom Trail

Orlando

Cost: $10

Contact: 407-540-0317

I HAVE BEFORE ME A REMARKABLE DOCUMENT GIVEN TO ME BY A YOUNG LADY FROM RWANDA

What: by Sonja Linden

When: through April 20

Thursdays - Saturdays - 7:30pm

Sundays - 2:30pm

Where: Mad Cow Theatre

105 S Magnolia Ave.

Orlando

Cost: $24 & $26

JOHNNY GUITAR

What: Martin Silvetri and Joel Higgins musical

When: April 17 through April 27

Thursdays - 3pm

Fridays - 8pm

Saturdays - 3 & 8pm

Sundays - 4pm

Where: Plaza Theatre

425 N. Bumby Ave

Orlando

Cost: $39.5

Contact: 407-228-1220

RABBIT HOLE

What: David Lindsay-Abaire drama

When April 20 - 26

Thursdays - Saturdays - 8pm

Sundays - 2:30pm

Where: Theatre Downtown

2113 N. Orange Avenue

Orlando

Cost: $18 general admission; $15 students and seniors

Contact: 407-841-0083

AUTHORS

KIM HAHN

What: signing by the author of the Fertility Journal

When April 24 - 5pm

Where: Urban Think! Bookstore

625 E. Central Boulevard

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-650-8004

ETC

SIERRA CLUB

What: Florida's Showcase Green Envirohome

When: April 16 - 7 - 8:45pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave

Orlando

Cost: Free

CENTRAL FLORIDA FAIR

When: April 17 - 27

10am - 10pm

Where: Central Florida Fairgrounds

4603 W. Colonial Drive

Orlando

Cost: $5 advance, $10 gate; students & seniors $5 advance, $7

gate; children 6-10 $2 advance, $5 gate; children under 5

free; Family 4-pack $80 advance, $96 gate

ORANGE AUDUBON PROGRAM

What: Riverine Turtles of Florida

When: April 17 - 7pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Ave

Orlando

Cost: Free

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL

What: Art, refreshments, music

When April 19 - noon - 9:30pm

Where: Lake Eola

Downtown

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-595-3731

GREAT AMERICAN PIE FESTIVAL

What: baking competitions, demonstrations & games

When: April 19- 11am - 7pm

April 20 - noon - 5pm

Where: Lakeside Park

631 Sycamore St

Celebration

Cost: $10 adults, $5 seniors and children

Contact: 407-566-2200

INTERNATIONAL FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

What: entertainment and cooking demonstrations

When: April 19- 5 - 9pm

Where: Avalon Park

13001 Founders Square Drive

Orlando

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-658-6565

ORANGE TREE ANTIQUES SHOW

What: 19^TH & 20^TH century pottery, glass, porcelain, books, et.c

When: April 11 - noon - 5pm

April 12 - 10am - 5pm

April 13 - 11am - 4pm

Where: Maitland Civic Center

641 S. Maitland Ave

Maitland

Cost: $4

EDUCATION FUND GALA

What: To benefit scholarships of the Business and Professional

Woman of Orlando Education Fund

When: April 19 - 6pm

Where: Orlando Marriott Downtown

400 W. Livingston St.

Orlando

Cost: $60 - singles; $100 - couples

Contact: 407-928-6279

FASHION FUNDS THE CURE

What: Fashion show to benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation

When: April 22 - 6pm

Where: Saks Fifth Avenue

8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail (Florida Mall)

Orlando

Cost: $75

Contact: 813-269-0955

AIR NAUTIQUE WAKE GAMES

What: Pro and Amateur Wakeboarding. There will also be music,

food, raffles and shopping.

Where: Orlando Water Sports

8615 Florida Rock Road

Orlando

When: April 24 - 27

9am - 11pm

Cost: Free for spectators

Contact: 407-438-5889

ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY

When: Wednesdays - 8pm

Where: Cup O Soul

906 W. Fairbanks Ave

Winter Park

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-647-7685

BECKETT FESTIVAL

What: several plays

When: through April 20 - check for times and schedule

Where: Orlando Shakespeare Theater

812 E. Rollins St.

Orlando

Cost: $20 general, $15 students and seniors,

3-day pass - $45 general, $30 students and seniors

Contact: 407-328-9005

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL

What: 15^th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at 5:45, 7 & 8.

When: through June 1

Where: Epcot

10000 Buena Vista Blvd.

Lake Buena Vista

Cost: park admission - $70 adults, $60 children

PAINT THE TOWN

What: works from traditional to contemporary

When: through June 1 - 8am - 9pm

Where: Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery

400 S. Orange Ave.

Orlando

Cost: Free

PLAN AHEAD

BASH FOR BOOKS

What: Wine tasting and auction to benefit the Winter Park Public

Library

When April 26 - 7pm

Where: Winter Park Public Library

460 E. New England Avenue

Winter Park

Cost: $75

Contact: 407-623-3486

REVOLUTION

What: Hosted by the Pintura International Graffiti Conference to

raise money for the construction of the Orlando

Contemporary Museum of Art.

When: April 26 - noon - 2am

Where: 630 W. Central Studios

630 W. Central Boulevard

Orlando

Cost: $15

PUPPETS FROM THE EDGE

What: Puppetry shorts hosted by Jason Home

When April 26 - 8pm

Where: Mad Cow Theatre Company

105 S. Magnolia Ave

Orlando

Cost: $8

Contact: 407-297-8788

FREUHLINGS FEST

What: German Spring festival with music and refreshments

When April 26 - 2pm

Where: German American Society of Central Florida Clubhouse

381 Orange Lane

Casselberry

Cost: $4; 12 & younger free

Contact: 407-834-0574

2008 FRINGE PREVIEW

What: A sneak preview of 30 of the productions of the upcoming

Fringe Festival

When: April 28 - 7 - 10pm

Where: Orlando Shakespeare Theater

812 E. Rollins St.

Orlando

Cost: $5

DATE NITGHT AT LEU GARDENS

What: Outdoor screening of Moonstruck

When May 2 - 8:30pm

Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens

1920 N. Forest Avenue

Orlando

Cost: $7 adults; $2 children

Contact: 407-246-2620

KID FEST

What: activities and refreshments

When: May 3 - 10am - 3pm

Where: Cranes Roost Park

Altamonte Springs Drive

Altamonte Springs

Cost: Free

Contact: 407-571-8863

ROBODOC

What: Premiere screening of the Stephen Maddocks comedy

When May 10 - 11pm

Where: Hard Rock Live

Universal CityWalk

Orlando

Cost: $35 advance tickets; $45 day of the show

Contact: 407-351-5483

For information on Seminole County real estate and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Seminole County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

What’s Happening in Central Florida

This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area through April 17th. The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, On-Going and Plan Ahead. There is surely something for everyone.

ART

CAFFEINE FOR THE ARTISTIC SOUL ART SHOW
What: pop, graffiti, modern & digital art from local artists
When: April 10 – 5 -10pm
Where: Full Sail
3300 University Blvd.
Winter Park
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-679-0100

THE GREAT PUBLIC ART CHALLENGE
What: 2 hours to find 7 pieces of art and complete tasks, prizes and
walking involved.
When: April 12 – 2 - 4pm
Where: Orange County Administration Center
201 S. Rosalind Ave.
Orlando
Cost: Free

HIPPIES USE SIDE DOOR
When: through May 10
Where: Boom-Art Gallery
1821 N. Orange Ave.
Orlando
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-281-0246

JURIED STUDENT ART EXHIBIT
When: through April 28
Where: Seminole Community College Fine Arts Gallery
100 Weldon Blvd.
Sanford
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-708-2040

SPRING SHOW
What: works by Frank Milo, Stefano Cecchini, Thomas Arvid &
others
When: through April 30
Where: Grand Bohemian Gallery
325 S. Orange Ave.
Orlando
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-581-4801

HARRIET LAKE: THE CLOSET
When: through June 22
Where: Mennello Museum of American Art
900 E. Princeton St.
Orlando
Cost: $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free
Contact: 407-246-4278


MUSIC

AL JARREAU
When: April 10 – 8pm
Where: Hard Rock Live
6050 Universal Blvd.
Orlando
Cost: $45 - 65
Contact: 407-351-5483

BUDDY GUY AND THE LOS LONELY BOYS
When: April 11 – 8pm
Where: House of Blues
1490 E. Buena Vista Drive
Lake Buena Vista
Cost: $38.50 advance, $41.50 day of the show
Contact: 407-934-2583

BACH FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA
What: Mahler’s Symphony #2
When: April 12 – 8pm
April 13 - 3pm
Where: Knowles Memorial Chapel
1000 Holt Ave
Winter Park
Cost: $20 - 45
Contact: 407-646-2182

ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
What: “Beethoven Lives Upstairs”
When: April 13 – 3pm
Where: Bob Carr Performing Arts Center
401 W. Livingston St.
Orlando
Cost: $16 adults, $8 ages 3-12
Contact: 407-849-2577

TODD RUNDGREN
When: April 14 – 8pm
Where: Hard Rock Live
6050 Universal Blvd.
Orlando
Cost: $35
Contact: 407-351-5483

LIFEHOUSE
When: April 16 – 8pm
Where: Hard Rock Live
6050 Universal Blvd.
Orlando
Cost: $25 - 32.50
Contact: 407-351-5483

VALENCIA STRING ENSEMBLE
When: April 17 – 1pm
Where: Valencia Community College East
701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail
Orlando
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-582-2329


THEATER

I NEVER SAW ANOTHER BUTTERFLY
What: by Irena Synkova about children, The Holocaust and a little
world of laughter
When: April 11 – 7:30pm
April 12 – 2:30 & 7:30pm
April 13 – 2:30pm
Where: Orlando Repertory Theatre
1001 E. Princeton St
Orlando
Cost: $15 adults, $10 ages 17 and younger
Contact: 407-896-7365

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT
What: Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical
When: April 11 through April 20
Fridays & Saturdays – 7:30pm
Sundays – 2pm
Where: Helen Stairs Theatre
203 Magnolia Ave
Sanford
Cost: $15 -23 adults, $10 students
Contact: 407-321-8111

MID-LIFE: THE CRISIS MUSICAL
What: production of the Jim & Bob Walton musical
When: through April 19
Fridays - 7:30pm
Saturdays – 2 & 7:30pm
Where: Winter Park Playhouse
711-B Orange Ave.
Winter Park
Cost: $30 general, $28 seniors, $22 matinees, $20 students and
industry professionals

LEMONADE
What: Doug Ba’aser and Tommy Wooten comedy
When: April 12 & 19 – 8pm
Where: Footlight Theater – Parliament House
410 N. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando
Cost: $10
Contact: 407-540-0317

I HAVE BEFORE ME A REMARKABLE DOCUMENT GIVEN TO ME BY A YOUNG LADY FROM RWANDA
What: by Sonja Linden
When: through April 20
Thursdays – Saturdays – 7:30pm
Sundays – 2:30pm
Where: Mad Cow Theatre
105 S Magnolia Ave.
Orlando
Cost: $24 & $26

JOHNNY GUITAR
What: Martin Silvetri and Joel Higgins musical
When: April 17 through April 27
Thursdays – 3pm
Fridays – 8pm
Saturdays – 3 & 8pm
Sundays – 4pm
Where: Plaza Theatre
425 N. Bumby Ave
Orlando
Cost: $39.5
Contact: 407-228-1220


AUTHORS

JOHN MANRIQUE
What: signing by the author of Ocean Raton
When: April 11 – 6:30pm
Where: Urban Think! Bookstore
625 E. Central Ave
Orlando
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-650-8004

FRANK RICH
What: NY Times journalist and author speaking on “Art, Culture
and Politics”
When: April 12 – 7:30pm
Where: Harold & Ted Alfond Sports Center – Rollins College
1000 Holt Ave.
Winter Park
Cost: Free


ETC

MR. RICHARD
What: musical storytelling
When: April 10 – 10am
Where: Barnes & Noble
481 N. Alafaya Trail
Orlando
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-275-1765

STARS OF TOMORROW
What: showcasing Orlando Ballet School’s emerging talent
When: April 11 - 8pm
April 12 - 2 & 8pm
Where: Dr. Phillips Center of Performing Arts
1111 N. Orange Ave.
Orlando
Cost: $20
Contact: 407-426-1739

BREWS AROUND THE ZOO
What: sample a variety of beers and regional cuisine with music
When: April 12 – 6 - 9pm
Where: Central Florida Zoo
3755 NW Hwy 17-92
Sanford
Cost: $25, $10 designated drive
Contact: 407-323-4450

PET FAIR
What: pageants, crafts, children’s activities, etc.
When: April 12 & 13 – 10am - 5pm
Where: Orlando Loch Haven Park
Mills Ave & Pricenton St
Orlando
Cost: $12, free to children under 11 & Orlando Science Members
Contact: 407-514-2000

54TH ANNUAL BAHIA SHRINER’S CIRCUS
When: April 12 & 13 – 1:30 – 5:30pm
Where: University of Central Florida Arena
North Gemini Blvd.
Orlando
Cost: $14

FAMILY FESTIVAL
What: rides and activities
When: April 13 – 10am – 5pm
Where: Lake Eola Park
1 N. Rosalind Ave
Orlando
Cost: Free + some rides ticketed separately
Contact: 407-645-5933

SIERRA CLUB
What: Florida’s Showcase Green Envirohome
When: April 16 – 7 – 8:45pm
Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens
1920 N. Forest Ave
Orlando
Cost: Free

CENTRAL FLORIDA FAIR
When: April 17 – 27
10am – 10pm
Where: Central Florida Fairgrounds
4603 W. Colonial Drive
Orlando
Cost: $5 advance, $10 gate; students & seniors $5 advance, $7
gate; children 6-10 $2 advance, $5 gate; children under 5
free; Family 4-pack $80 advance, $96 gate

ORANGE AUDUBON PROGRAM
What: Riverine Turtles of Florida
When: April 17 – 7pm
Where: Harry P. Leu Gardens
1920 N. Forest Ave
Orlando
Cost: Free


ON-GOING

OPEN MIKE POETRY
When: Wednesdays – 8pm
Where: Cup O Soul
906 W. Fairbanks Ave
Winter Park
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-647-7685

BECKETT FESTIVAL
What: several plays
When: through April 20 – check for times and schedule
Where: Orlando Shakespeare Theater
812 E. Rollins St.
Orlando
Cost: $20 general, $15 students and seniors,
3-day pass - $45 general, $30 students and seniors
Contact: 407-328-9005

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL
What: 15th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at 5:45, 7 & 8.
When: through June 1
Where: Epcot
10000 Buena Vista Blvd.
Lake Buena Vista
Cost: park admission - $70 adults, $60 children

PAINT THE TOWN
What: works from traditional to contemporary
When: through June 1 - 8am – 9pm
Where: Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery
400 S. Orange Ave.
Orlando
Cost: Free


PLAN AHEAD

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
What: Joseph Robinette play adapted from the C. S. Lewis novel
When: April 18 through May 25
Fridays – 7pm
Saturdays – 2 & 7pm
Sundays – 2pm
Where: Orlando Repertory Theatre
1001 E. Princeton St.
Orlando
Cost: $15 adults, $10 children 17 and younger
Contact: 407-896-7365

GREAT AMERICAN PIE FESTIVAL
What: baking competitions, demonstrations & games
When: April 19– 11am – 7pm
April 20 – noon – 5pm
Where: Lakeside Park
631 Sycamore St
Celebration
Cost: $10 adults, $5 seniors and children
Contact: 407-566-2200

INTERNATIONAL FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL
What: entertainment and cooking demonstrations
When: April 19– 5 – 9pm
Where: Avalon Park
13001 Founders Square Drive
Orlando
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-658-6565

ORANGE TREE ANTIQUES SHOW
What: 19TH & 20TH century pottery, glass, porcelain, books, et.c
When: April 11 – noon - 5pm
April 12 – 10am – 5pm
April 13 – 11am – 4pm
Where: Maitland Civic Center
641 S. Maitland Ave
Maitland
Cost: $4


WICKED
What: touring production
When: April 23 through May 4
Tuesdays - Saturdays – 8pm
Sundays – 1pm
2pm Matinees – April 24, 26, 30
6:30pm – April 27
Where: Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre
401 W. Livingston St
Orlando
Cost: $35 - 90
Contact: 407-849-2577

KID FEST
What: activities and refreshments
When: May 3 – 10am – 3pm
Where: Cranes Roost Park
Altamonte Springs Drive
Altamonte Springs
Cost: Free
Contact: 407-571-8863

Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for March ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics forSeminole County, Florida for March 2008. For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

Single-Family Homes

188 homes sold during the month of March.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $324,801.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $256,250.

The most expensive home sold for $2.8M and was on the market for 411 days. It was a 6 bedroom, 6 full bath, 2 half bath 11,089sf home with an 8-car stone floor exhibition garage built in 2006 in Heathrow/Lake Mary on 1.7 acres of land, with swimming pool and spa, 22' ceilings in the living and dining rooms, 50' x 30' game room, his and her offices and huge exercise room. The HOA of $550/quarter.

The least expensive home sold for $45,000 after 40 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1-car detached garage bank-owned home with 660sf built in 1930 in Sanford in need of repairs from some previous water damage with no HOA.
The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $351,832.


Condos, Townhomes & Villas

60 homes sold

The average sales price was $171,756.

The median sales price was $160,395.

The most expensive condo sold for $362,800 and was a new townhome in Lake Mary. It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath 3-story townhome with 2428sf and a 2-car garage with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, tile roof in what some consider a luxury guarded community with a pool, workout room and playground with a monthly maintenance of $298.

The least expensive sold by auction for $77,000 after 294 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo with 1085sf built in 2002 in Sanford in a gated community with a pool, clubhouse, tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $190.

The average sales price a year earlier was $180,628.


For information on Seminole County real estate and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Seminole County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Altamonte Springs, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for February ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Altamonte Springs, Seminole County, Florida for February 2008. Altamonte Springs is made up of the zip codes of 32701 & 32714. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32714 - Single-Family Homes

4 homes sold during the month of February.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $297,475 with 127 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $334,950.

The most expensive home sold for $355,000 and was on the market for 184 days. It was a 4 bedroom, 3 bath 2491sf home with a 2-car garage, a screen enclosed heated swimming pool and spa, built in 1994 on .27 acres of land, with laminate wood floors, a renovated kitchen and master bath, new carpet, fresh paint and wood-burning fireplace. HOA is $172/year.

The least expensive home sold for $165,000 after 159 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1-car garage home with 1142sf built in 1995, with a monthly HOA of $40.50 which includes partial lawn service.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $284,333 with 102 days on the market.

32714 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

4 homes sold

The average sales price was $134,420 with 151 days on the market.

The median sales price was $133,900.

The most expensive condo sold for $149,980 and was on the market for 261 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath 2-story townhome with 1159sf built in 1983 with fenced backyard and a monthly maintenance of $41.50.

The least expensive sold for $119,900 and was on the market for 185 days and was in pre-foreclosure. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo with 1036sf built in 1986 with a remodeled kitchen and wood-burning fireplace. The community offers a pool & tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $330.

The average sales price a year earlier was $161,394 with 103 days on the market.


32701 - Single Family Homes

2 homes sold for an average sales price of $166,750 with 145 days on the market.

The more expensive home was in pre-foreclosure and sold for $168,500 with 94 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home with 1622sf built in 1987. The home has a fireplace and is located on .43 acres of land with no HOA.

The other home sold for $165,000 with 196 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home with no garage in 1276sf built in 1961 with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $264,113 with 83 days on the market.

32701 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

4 homes sold

The average sales price was $125,725 with 119 days on the market.

The median sales price was $135,950.

The most expensive villa sold for $181,000 in 73 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 1-story unit with no garage and 1322sf built in 1980 which has recently seen some improvements. It is located in a gated community which has a pool and tennis courts with a monthly maintenance fees are $71.

The least expensive condo sold for $50,000 in 297 days. It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo with 540sf built in 1970 with new tile in the kitchen & bath plus a newer refrigerator and hot water heater. The community offers a swimming pool, tennis courts and access to a large ski lake. The maintenance fees are $180.40/month plus $58.65 quarterly.

The average sales price of a year earlier was $144,982 with 128 days on the market.


For information on Altamonte Springs and Seminole County real estate and Altamonte Springs and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Altamonte Springs and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Altamonte Springs and Seminole County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Longwood, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for February ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Longwood, Seminole County, Florida for February 2008. Longwood is made up of the zip codes of 32779 & 32750. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32779 - Single-Family Homes

8 homes sold during the month of February.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $427,294 with 185 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $327,500.

The most expensive home was bank owned. It sold for $755,000 and was on the market for 171 days and was a 7 bedroom, 5½ bath 5781sf home on 4.89 acres with a 3-car garage, a screen enclosed swimming pool, indoor sauna and jacuzzi room with fireplaces in the master bedroom and family room and an attached in-law/guest suite built in 1981. The property is zoned for horses, has a barn/shed, pond and is fenced with no HOA.

The least expensive home sold for $214,900 after 128 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home with 2079sf built in 1984 on .31 acres with a circular driveway with fountain, fireplace in the living room, decks, gardens and more fountains in back with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $343,311 with 132 days on the market.

32779 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

2 homes sold with an average sales price was $264,000.

The more expensive townhome sold for $315,000 and was on the market for 331 days. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 2-story, 2-car garage home with 1705sf built in 2005 with screened patio, wood & tile floors in a gated community with a monthly maintenance of $227.

The other townhome sold for $213,000 and was on the market for 198. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage home with 1625sf built in 1984 with tile roofs, wood floors and newer a/c in a golf community. The community offers a pool & tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $250 and an annual HOA of $232.

The average sales price a year earlier was $161,000 with 16 days on the market.


32750 - Single Family Homes

13 homes sold

The average sales price was $272,269 with 183 days on the market.

The median sales price was $220,000.

The most expensive home sold for $625,000 with 211 days on the market. It was a 5 bedroom, 3 bath, 3-car garage home with 3244sf built in 2006 in a gated community on .22 acres with tile and wood floors, plantation shutters, silestone countertops and stainless steel appliances. The HOA is $900 annually.

The least expensive sold for $145,000 with 197 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home with no garage in 1053sf built in 1972 with tile floors and a new roof with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $292,000 with 121 days on the market.

32750 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

No homes sold during this period.


For information on Longwood and Seminole County real estate and Longwood and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Longwood and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Longwood and Seminole County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Apopka, Seminole & Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for February ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Apopka, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for February 2008. Apopka is made up of the zip codes of 32703 & 32712. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32703 - Single-Family Homes

13 homes sold during the month of February.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $205,052 with 164 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $195,000.

The most expensive home sold for $290,000 and was on the market for 130 days. It was a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home in 1991sf home built in 2000 on .18 acre with a screen enclosed heated swimming pool and spa , wood and tile floors. The community has a playground and the HOA is $330 annually.

The least expensive home sold for $129,900 after 142 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 1-car carport home with 897sf built in 1957 on .18 acre with no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $254,611 with 111 days on the market.

32703 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

1 townhome sold for $137,500 and was on the market for 42 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath home with 1390sf built in 1989 with screened patio. The community offers a pool and tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $183.

The average sales price a year earlier was $170,000 with 197 days on the market.


32712 - Single Family Homes

23 homes sold

The average sales price was $256,982 with 143 days on the market.

The median sales price was $227,000.

The most expensive home was brand new and sold for $420,000. It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3-car garage home with 3833sf built in a gated community on over ¼ acre with tile and granite countertops. The community has a park and the HOA is $195 quarterly.

The least expensive home sold for $145,000 with 196 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, 1-car garage in 930sf built in 1987 with new carpet, fresh paint and a newer roof and a/c. The HOA is $75 annually.

The average sales price a year earlier was $297,418 with 112 days on the market.

32712 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

2 homes sold with an average sales price of $147,500.

The more expensive townhome sold for $175,000 with 273 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage home with 1550sf built in 2004 located in a golf community with tile and stainless steel appliances. The monthly maintenance is $200.

The other home is a golf front villa which sold for $120,000 with 162 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath split-plan home with no garage in 980sf built in 1974 with and enclosed porch and newer kitchen. The monthly maintenance is $206.50.

The average sales price a year earlier was $154,000 with 84 days on the market.


For information on Apopka and Seminole County real estate and Apopka and Orange County homes for sale in addition to Apopka and Orange County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Apopka and Orange County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Sanford, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for February ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Sanford, Seminole County, Florida for February 2008. Sanford is made up of the zip codes of 32773 & 32771. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32773 - Single-Family Homes

6 homes sold during the month of February.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $224,498 with 136 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $217,500.

The most expensive home was brand new and sold for $285,990. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2-car garage home in 2270sf. Unfortunately, no other information is available on this home.

The least expensive home sold for $155,000 after 253 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 1½ bath, 1-car carport split-plan home with 1052sf built in 1970 on .21 acre with a deck and fenced yard and no HOA.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $219,947 with 122 days on the market.


32773 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

2 homes sold with an average sales price of $162,750.

The more expensive townhome was brand new and it sold for $200,500. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage townhome in 1663sf with tile, crown moulding, 42" cabinets, stainless steel appliances. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $151.

The other townhome sold for $125,000 and was on the market for 99 days. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath home with 1128sf built in 1987 with fenced patio, tile and wood laminate flooring. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $194.35.

The average sales price a year earlier was $146,699 with 150 days on the market.


32771 - Single Family Homes

33 homes sold

The average sales price was $302,677 with 179 days on the market.

The median sales price was $275,000.

The most expensive home sold for $855,000 with 52 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3-car garage home with 3200sf built in 2006 a gated & manned community on .45 acre with tile roof, screen enclosed heated swimming pool and spa, study/office, 2 walk-in closets in the master suite, granite countertops. The community has a playground and the HOA is $2200 annually.

The least expensive home was in pre-foreclosure and sold for $104,900 with 330 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home with no garage in 1170sf built in 1952 on .34 acre with tile floors and a screen enclosed above ground pool with no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $310,505 with 118 days on the market.


32771 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

8 homes sold

The average sales price was $174,816 with 86 days on the market.

The median sales price was $179,515.

The most expensive townhome was brand new and sold for $211,110. It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1-car garage home with 1797sf located in a gated community. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance $223.

The least expensive townhome was also brand new and sold for $130,000. It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath home with no garage in 1196sf in a gated community. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $186.

The average sales price a year earlier was $231,447 with 65 days on the market.


For information on Sanford and Seminole County real estate and Sanford and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Sanford and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Sanford and Seminole County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Winter Park, Seminole and Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for February ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Winter Park, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for February 2008. Winter Park is made up of the zip codes of 32789 & 32792. For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32789 - Single-Family Homes

6 homes sold during the month of February.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $693,875 with 169 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $535,000.

The most expensive home sold for $1.515M with 161 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 4½ bath, 3-car garage home in 4669sf built in 2006 on .31 acre with a pool, wood floors, fireplace, granite countertops, paver walk & pool deck and summer kitchen with no HOA.

The least expensive home sold for $180,000 after 42 days on the market. It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 2-car garage in 1412sf built in 1953 on .34 acre with no HOA. This home was listed as a fixer-upper.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $732,300 with 133 days on the market.


32789 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

6 homes sold

The average sales price was $660,167 with 435 days on the market.

The median sales price was $724,500.

The most expensive townhome was brand new and it sold for $1.1M. It was a 3 bedroom, 3½ bath, 4 floor townhome in 3112sf with an interior courtyard, 2 balconies, atrium, granite countertops, tile floors, stainless steel appliances & an elevator. The monthly maintenance is $629.29.

The least expensive condo sold for $120,000 and was on the market for 48 days. It was a ground floor studio condo with 1 bath 482sf built in 1960 with an updated kitchenette and screened patio. The community offers a pool and boat slip with a monthly maintenance of $302.01.

The average sales price a year earlier was $198,966 with 83 days on the market.


32792 - Single Family Homes

11 homes sold

The average sales price was $228,364 with 202 days on the market.

The median sales price was $230,000.

The most expensive home sold for $275,000 with 267 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home with 1794sf built in 1966 on .22 acre with an updated kitchen, terrazzo floors, screened porch and backs up to a bike trail with no HOA.

The least expensive home sold for $185,000 with 28 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, 2-car garage in 1226sf built in 1965 on .27 acre with a resurfaced pool, new roof, a/c and garage door with terrazzo floors and no HOA.

The average sales price a year earlier was $301,383 with 119 days on the market.


32792 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

8 homes sold

The average sales price was $127,799 with 178 days on the market.

The median sales price was $104,500.

The most expensive sold for $219,900 with 25 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1-car garage end-unit townhome with 1628sf built in 2004 with screened porch, new carpeting, and fresh paint. The monthly maintenance is $135.

The least expensive condo sold for $70,000 with 400 days on the market. It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath ground floor condo in 785sf built in 1974 with newer a/c range and dishwasher. The community offers two pools, tennis courts and a rec building with a monthly maintenance of $181 plus a $22 monthly assessment.

The average sales price a year earlier was $146,957 with 65 days on the market.


For information on Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County real estate and Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County homes for sale in addition to Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Maitland, Seminole and Orange Counties, FL – Market Sales Statistics for February ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Maitland, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for February 2008. Maitland is made up of the zip code 32751. For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32751 - Single-Family Homes

3 homes sold during the month of February.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $317,667 with 72 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $2785,000.

The most expensive home sold for $440,000 with 39 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage home in 1904sf built in 1962 on .22 acre with a resurfaced pool, wood floors, fireplace, granite countertops, new windows and roof with no HOA.

The least expensive home sold for $235,000 after 69 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage in 2465sf built in 1973 on .21 acre with pool, fireplace and no HOA. This home was listed as a fixer-upper.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $307,877with 98 days on the market.


32751 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

6 homes sold

The average sales price was $196,033 with 279 days on the market.

The median sales price was $143,450.

The most expensive townhome sold for $409,500 with 131 days on the market. It was a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 2-car garage end-unit townhome in 2355sf built in 2006 in a gated community with granite countertops, tile floors, stainless steel appliances, 42" cabinets, tile roof & screened patio. The community offers a pool and the monthly maintenance of $309.10 includes lawn service.

The least expensive was a condo conversion which resold for $119,900 and was on the market for 185 days. It was a ground floor 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo in 715sf built in 2000 in a gated community with a screened patio, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, wood floors and plantation shutters. The community offers a pool with wireless access, fitness center, business center, video monitored gate, clubhouse and tot lot, tennis and basketball courts, with door to door garbage pick-up and a monthly maintenance of $139.88.

The average sales price a year earlier was $174,847 with 138 days on the market.


For information on Maitland and Seminole and Orange County real estate and Maitland and Seminole and Orange County homes for sale in addition to Maitland and Seminole and Orange County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Maitland and Seminole and Orange County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Lake Mary, Seminole County, FL – Market Sales Statistics for February ‘08

The following are the market sales statistics for Lake Mary, Seminole County, Florida for February 2008. Lake Mary is made up of the zip code 32746. For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to single-family homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.

32746 - Single-Family Homes

3 homes sold during the month of February.

The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $362,307 with 150 days on the market.

The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $285,850.

The most expensive home sold for $1.25M with 32 days on the market. It was a 5 bedroom, 5 bath, 3-car garage home in 5289sf built in 1999 on .97 acre in a gated community with a screen enclosed heated pool, fireplace, wood floors granite countertops, commercial grade appliances, tile roof, 2 bonus rooms and office. The community offers tennis courts with a HOA of $525/quarter.

The least expensive home was bank owned and sold for $182,000 after 181 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2-car garage corner lot home in 1766sf built in 1980 on .21 acre. This home was listed as a fixer-upper. The HOA is $85 annually.

The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $450,941 with 114 days on the market.


32746 - Condos, Townhomes & Villas

3 homes sold

The average sales price was $165,633 with 173 days on the market.

The median sales price was $147,000.

The most expensive condo sold for $225,000 with 154 days on the market. It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1-car carport ground floor golf & water front condo in 1408sf built in 1985 in a gated & guarded community with a fireplace, tile floors and two screened patios. The community offers a pool, spa, fitness area and rec room with a monthly maintenance of $466.330.

The least expensive condo sold for $124,900 and was on the market for 50 days. It was a ground floor 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo in 1136sf built in 1986 in a gated community with a patio. The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $295.

The average sales price a year earlier was $170,742 with 21 days on the market.


For information on Lake Mary and Seminole County real estate and Lake Mary and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Lake Mary and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Lake Mary and Seminole County Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Vacant House Safety

This is about vacant house safety because of a situation that I had to deal with over the last several days. Obviously, this person was quite tenacious.

With all of the homes on the market, many are vacant and we need to be more aware of our surroundings than ever before and CAREFUL! Even looking back, I did something quite stupid myself. OK, so a little history and a short story - Imagine that!

I have a couple of Central Florida rental properties that are not presently occupied. One of them I hadn't been to in a couple of weeks. I knew that I needed to put new flyers in it as I've lowered the price and changed offices. So, I drove over to this house to put the flyers in the InfoTube and noted that my sign was missing. It's been previously taken (see how I didn't say ‘stolen' - oops, there I did) so I really didn't think anything of it except to be somewhat perturbed.

So the following day, this past Sunday, I went to the store and bought another ‘For Rent' sign and drove over to my house to place it in the yard. To my astonishment, the sign was next to the mail box. I had to wonder, but only for a moment, if I had missed it. I was ready to drive off when I decided that I needed to check the home out. As I entered the garage, there was something on the floor that I would not have left there and as I got out of my car, I noted that the lid to the washing machine was up, which it shouldn't have been.

What really floored me was that when I looked inside the machine, there were clothes in the tub. Needless to say I didn't think anything of it and entered the house, obviously knowing that someone has been there, even though at this point I was also questioning my sanity and stability. Yeah, go there, I can understand!

I walked in the house and several things were amiss in that many doors were closed that should not have been; the porch light was turned off; there was an empty soda can on the floor in one room and a rod was there as well. Even though this isn't my personal residence, I still felt violated (no need to go there, please!). After going through the house I'd noted that several doors and windows were unlocked, which was not the previous case. I'm usually careful with my homes. I also noted where I think the squatter came in.

The reason that I'm calling this person a squatter is because they did not do any damage to my house except for some dirt. So, I secured the home and called the police department to let them know what had occurred. The woman on the other side of the phone was silent for a while until she finally asked if I'd like them to patrol the area more often. Now, it has to be noted that this is a nice neighborhood and rarely has any issues.

So, Monday I go back to the house and note as I'm driving up to the garage that a blind appears to be more closed than I would normally keep it and as I enter the garage, I note that today there is a shirt lying across the washing machine. So, I immediately call the police.

Three squad cars show up and they go through the house with their guns drawn and come back with an empty pack of cigarettes. Not my brand. They were very nice and we all went through the home looking for ways of entry and a couple of windows were unlocked again including the one I thought they were coming through because I'd found footprints on the kitchen counter. I was wondering to myself about the security of this window the previous day, but checked it several times before I left.

So I went through the house and secured it again, checking it several times. Besides, I wanted to clean it up and vacuum because I was showing it on New Year's Day.

Well, I guess they weren't happy that I secured the home, so on New Year's Day when I went over they removed a window from the exterior door to the garage and I must have forgotten to lock the interior door. Again, I called the police and went through the whole scenario again. But dealing with the police is another story in itself.

Well, I went over there today and don't think that they got in after covering the window with some hard particle board.

The whole point here is we ‘assume' that when a house is vacant, that is the case. But we don't really know this at all. The fact is, not only in this case, but we do not have the right to assume anything.

More and more homes that we see on the market are vacant. I did a google search before writing this and couldn't believe how many articles popped up on this topic and I'm only talking about the last couple of months. This is obviously not an isolated incident and the tenacity of this person is mind boggling to a degree.

Some of the things that I've read tell us that if a home is vacant to cancel all of the services and keep up with the lawn. But this really isn't feasible if you are trying to sell or rent a home. One also mentioned to leave lights on, but shut the blinds. I usually leave them open so you can see if anything is going on inside, but I guess that the other hand is they feel that the possible intruder won't be able to see inside.

But, finally, one law enforcement agency wrote that if they've been vacant long enough, people will just kind of make themselves at home and squatters will come in. Now, I have to tell you that on one level I felt sorry for this person, because it appears that they just may needed a place to sleep. I really couldn't consider what they did as vandalism except for a broken screen and missing window. But the other hand is what they did was wrong and a violation.

Please just be careful and be safe. Many of us have vacant properties, whether they be our own or that of clients. We need to be diligent in our care of such. We need to make sure that we check them fairly often. This is not meant to frighten you but to heighten your awareness of yourself and your surroundings.

For more information on Central Florida real estate and Central Florida homes for sale in addition to Central Florida relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Central Florida Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Real Estate Contract – Right of First Refusal – Who Benefits?

This post came about because of one by Jessica Horton entitled, "Why put a carton of milk on layaway when your old dairy cow doesn't have any takers?" In it she discussed about receiving a lot more real estate contracts as of late with contingency clauses for the sale of a buyer's home with no kick-out clause.

Let me preface this by stating that I make it a point to follow-up and follow through. From the get go I get the buyers information in regard their lender, etc. and put calls through until I hopefully get more information back. For the many that have come to know me, I do not like surprises and I can only gather that my sellers would not be too thrilled with them either.

Considering the present market conditions, I will not take a home off of the market if there is a contingency clause for the sale of the buyer's home. For the purposes here, I'm assuming the fact that the buyer's home is already listed with a real estate professional and priced accordingly for the market. Granted, I would prefer it to be under contract and then obviously feel better about the situation. Of course if that was the case, I would respectfully request all the information as to their buyer's lender and follow through on that as well.

The reason that I'm writing this is not as much in regard to what's just been written, but more so to how this affects your seller's home being shown after the contract is executed.

I have found that the majority of the time the home is basically passed over for consideration and that the showings generally cease or slow to a trickle at the most. I'm not aware of other MLS's, but in the Mid-Florida Regional MLS we can keep the home ‘active' but the first thing that has to be mentioned in the public remarks section is that you have a ‘Contingency Contract' and I usually add that it's a ‘Right of First Refusal' with a certain number of hours denoted. This appears to essentially take the home off of the market.

With the number of homes available in today's market I have to wonder if our seller's are hindering themselves by accepting some of these contracts. Like I've said I try to do my homework, but what about the person that does not? I try not to talk negatively in regard to others in our profession, but are they performing a disservice to their client?

For more information on Central Florida real estate and Central Florida homes for sale in addition to Central Florida relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Central Florida Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate and homes for sale, Orange County, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Marc It Sold!

Lake Mary, Seminole County, Florida

Lake Mary has been ranked by CNN as the # 1 Best Place to Live in Florida and the # 4 city in the U.S. It is located in Central Florida abutting Longwood and Sanford in Seminole County straddling I-4 (a major thoroughfare reaching from Tampa, on Florida's West Coast to Daytona Beach on its East Coast). Lake Mary is just minutes away from downtown Orlando, the Orlando Sanford Airport, Orlando International Airport and the major theme attractions.

Lake Mary, which is an actual lake, was named for the wife of Major William Randolph.

Lake Mary is geographically located between Orlando and Daytona Beach. Shopping abounds from upscale boutiques and shopping centers to department stores. Right next door there is the Seminole Town Center. You will find a wide-range of dining choices from fast food, as would be expected, to fine dining restaurants with some of the best in Central Florida.

Lake Mary is a very unique in its mix of commerce and residential areas. It includes Heathrow, a gated residential golf-course community of approximately 2000 homes started in the mid 80's by Jeno Palucci, who is well known for such brands as Chun King, Jeno's & Luigino's foods. Next door you will find Heathrow International Parkway, an office park which includes being the home of AAA.

Lake Mary is home to the Lake Mary - Heathrow Festival of the Arts which is held in the fall each year and you will find a Farmer's Market on the weekends.

Lake Mary boasts some of the best golf country clubs in the Central Florida region including Heathrow, Alaqua, Timacuan & Magnolia Plantation. Lake Mary also has a park and recreation system in addition to a Community Center which is being joined by a 19,000 square foot Events Center.

Lake Mary is a great place to live, work & play!

For more information on Lake Mary real estate and Lake Mary homes for sale in addition to Lake Mary relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Lake Mary Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate and homes for sale, Orange County, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Longwood, Seminole County, Florida

Longwood is located in Central Florida abutting Altamonte Springs in Seminole County straddling I-4 (a major thoroughfare reaching from Tampa, on Florida's West Coast to Daytona Beach on its East Coast) and State Road 434. Longwood is just minutes away from downtown Orlando, the Orlando Sanford Airport, Orlando International Airport and the major theme attractions.

Longwood is rich in history including that of its early settlers John Neill Searcy & Edward Warren Henck. Longwood has a historic district with many structures dating to the 1800's. There is the Bradlee-McIntyre House, which was originally located in Altamonte Springs and is on the U. S. National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Longwood Hotel.

Because of Longwood's geographic location, you can enjoy a wide range of shopping available to you not only in Longwood, but also in neighboring Altamonte Springs including the Altamonte Mall, one of the larger shopping malls in Central Florida, or the new Uptown Altamonte, a mixed-use development which abuts the Altamonte Mall and Cranes Roost Park where people can live, work, play and enjoy the outdoors. In addition to shopping in Lake Mary & Sanford with their wide range of shopping choices from discount department stores to high-end boutique shops including the Seminole Town Center. Dining choices abound in Longwood and the surrounding communities with some of the finest dining available in the Central Florida area.

There are several parks located in Longwood with some having lighted baseball fields, tennis courts, basketball courts & playground equipment. Longwood is also home to The Senator at Big Tree Park, which is the largest Bald Cypress of over 3000 years old.

Longwood is a great place to live, work & play!

For more information on Longwood real estate and Longwood homes for sale in addition to Longwood relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Longwood Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate and homes for sale, Orange County, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.

Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034

Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Altamonte Springs, Seminole County, Florida

Altamonte Springs is located in the geographic heart of Central Florida in Seminole County straddling I-4 (a major thoroughfare reaching from Tampa, on Florida's West Coast to Daytona Beach on its East Coast) and State Road 436. Altamonte Springs is just minutes away from downtown Orlando, the Orlando Sanford Airport, Orlando International Airport and the major theme attractions.

The first settlers of Altamonte Springs, which is Spanish for ‘high hill,' were a group of businessmen who intended to create a tourist haven at Snow Junction, as it was then called. It has evolved into a residential community with its strength lying in its many retail and office centers.

You can enjoy a wide range of shopping available to you in Altamonte Springs including the Altamonte Mall, one of the larger shopping malls in Central Florida, or the new Uptown Altamonte, a mixed-use development which abuts the Altamonte Mall and Cranes Roost Park where people can live, work, play and enjoy the outdoors.

There are many activities at Uptown Altamonte and Cranes Roost Park, with the Eddie Rose Amphitheater for the whole family including the Fourth of July celebration, Red, Hot & Boom which has an attendance of approximately 100,000 people. There is almost always something going on a weekly basis including Jazz concerts and other musical attractions, Karaoke nights, comedy, and Streetmosphere, the Russian born members of CirqueMosphere, an artistic troupe of performers.

The park system in Altamonte Springs offers so much including Lake Lotus Nature Park, Eastmonte Park, Westmonte Park with its outdoor Therapeutic Pool, and Merrill Park to name just a few.

Altamonte Springs is a great place to live, work & play!

For more information on Altamonte Springs real estate and Altamonte Springs homes for sale in addition to Altamonte Springs relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Altamonte Springs Realtor @ 407-463-1034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County, West Volusia County and South Lake County.

To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.


Marc Grossman, GRI - http://www.OrlandoHomes-4u.com/ - 407-463-1034


Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.

Till next time - Marc It Sold!

It's All About Meme...Marc's Book Meme

I received an email from Midori Miller informing me that I am now tagged and need to write a post "It's All About MeMe..." I hope you don't mind if I take you on a journey and do this a little differently. Too many things are going through my mind. I know, that's a scary place to be!

While typing the words ‘MeMe,' I had a jolt back to a dear friend that always used the phrase "It's All About Me!" - and for him it was. He used to kid that it wasn't true, but the truth be told... In fact, I found this saying in one of my favorite stores in Ft. Lauderdale, called Seldom Seen on Las Olas and just gave it to him for his birthday. I've never been a ‘Me' person. I don't think others could consider me self-centered. That is just a turn off for me. I generally try to think of the other person.

OK, so now to what I'm supposed to be writing about. I have to change this around a little. I'm supposed to be telling you of my five favorite books of all time. That is extremely hard for me, but I will tell you of the books that I'm currently reading in a little while.

I remember that the first book I read by myself, without having to do it for school, was Rosemary's Baby written by Ira Levin, who was better known for being a playwrite. Holy moly that was 40 years ago. About the same time we were reading Lord of the Flies by William Golding and if I'm not mistaken he wrote a sequel to that, but I can't remember the name of it.

I've read J. R. R. Tolkien's The Hobbit (always thought Bilbo Baggins was so cool) & Lord of the Rings twice and hopefully will reread them again in my later years.

Reading has been a very important part of my life. I generally only read fiction and mostly love international intrigue and mysteries. So, what I'd like to do at this juncture is to share with you some of the many authors that I quite enjoy. They are in no particular order and there are many more..

Robert Ludlum - fantastic author of international intrigue. You've probably seen many of the movies. There were only 1 or 2 books of his that I thought were so-so. Have not read any of his works that were published post-humously since they were finished by others.

Tom Clancy - Loved his earlier works, but have not read him since The Sum of All Fears. Maybe it's just me, but I felt that his books were just getting overwrought and boring. And it appeared to be that either he was getting full of himself and just having to push out more books because that is the nature of that business.

John Grisham - I have not read him in many years, but his first books were absolutely awesome. I felt that his books just appeared to be repetitious. He was obviously churning them out quickly.

Herman Wouk - Some absolutely fantastic novels including The Caine Mutiny, The Winds of War & War and Rememberance.

Philip Roth - I remember the first book of his I read was Portnoy's Complaint. There was a lot of sexual content & eroticism and I was only a teenager at the time, but underneath all that this was a very good novel at the height of the sexual revolution. But he wrote many other excellent books including Goodbye, Columbus.

Leon Uris - What can I say, Exodus, Mila 18, Topaz, QB VII, etc.

Chaim Potok - Most of his books involve Judaism, The Chosen, My Name Is Asher Lev and Davita's Harp.

Ray Bradbury - What can I say about him? I read The Martian Chronicles in school. He wrote books such as Fahrenheit 451, The Illustrated Man & Dandelion Wine.

John LeCarre - I must admit that sometimes his books took a little to get through, but that could have been a ‘me' thing. But just look at some of his writing: The Spy Who Came In From The Cold, Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, Smiley's People and The Constant Gardner.

Jonathan Kellerman - Love his Dr. Alex Delaware series with his detective friend Milo Sturgis in books such as When the Bough Breaks and Blood Test.

Faye Kellerman - The wife of Jonathan Kellerman and the writer of a series of Peter Decker/Rina Lazarus books. He's a detective with his Hasidic wife. There are 17 in the series and she's written a couple of books with her husband including Double Homicide.

Martha Grimes - She wrote a series of Richard Drury books, whose a Scotland Yard inspector, with his friend Melrose Plant. All the titles of these books are names of pubs.

Mary Higgins Clark - An excellent writer with books such as A Stranger is Watching, The Cradle Will Fall and A Cry in the Night. She has also co-authored a couple of books with her daughter Carol Higgins Clark.

John MacDonald - Loved his Travis McGee series. All of them had a color in the name. Very easy and quick read. The Deep Blue Good-by and Nightmare in Pink.

I could keep on going on and on. There's Elmore Leonard and Sidney Sheldon. Who could forget, The Other Side of Midnight, Master of the Game and The Doomsday Conspiracy.

It's obvious that I love reading and especially my fiction, but I also love what I do - real estate. It doesn't bother me that I'm not reading the way I used to, I'll be able in the future hopefully. I quite enjoy reading about real estate. There are two magazines that I always read and are very informative, but are only local. One is Florida Realtor Magazine and the other Agent News Direct. There is so much to learn and they offer a lot as well. It's important for me to learn because it not only helps me, but it also helps my clients and friends in the business. I have no issue sharing what I learn with others - OK, well maybe sometimes I like to keep things to myself.

So, with all this said, the books that I presently have on my coffee table (yes, it's a mess - strewn with newpapers (read it daily) & books) are: