Cape Coral Real Estate Brokerage | SW FL Property

Florida Energy Star Residential HVAC Rebate Program

239-542-8521

http://www.florida-future-realty.com/new-york-mets-will-hold-clinic-in-fort-myers

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August 31, 2010 12:54:20

HVAC rebate to qualified Floridian's

Many Florida home owners are thrilled to have a chance to replace their less efficient heating and air conditioning units, to an updated energy star rated model. It could not have come at a better time for some Floridians, whose electric bills are soaring and savings accounts have been dwindling. Help has come in the form of a rebate for HVAC systems. The rebate will be a flat $1,500 given in the form of an American Express prepaid card.

Unfortunately, it isn't as easy as replacing your old unit with a new one and sending off your proof of purchase. Home owners must have a test performed on the duct work to determine whether they qualify for this rebate. The test MUST be performed by a Florida Class 1 Rater, A Florida licensed mechanical contractor, or a recognized test a balance agent. The fee to have this test performed can be anywhere from $300 to $500. Duct leakage can be no more than 15% to the outside,if it is shown to be more, repairs must be made at your expense or you cannot proceed with this program. After the proper tests have been performed and passed you then can purchase and install your new system.

The purchase and installation must be completed between Aug. 30 and Dec. 31 2010. There is only $15 million dollars allocated to support this program, so time is of the essence. In addition to the government tax rebate many air conditioning manufacturers may also offer rebates as well, the combination of rebates and savings in energy cost could potentially save homeowners thousands. To qualify for this program it is essential to follow the entire process properly and return all the forms in the time frame specified.

For more information:

If we can help you with any of your real estate need please don't hesitate to call, we look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team.

239-542-8521

http://www.florida-future-realty.com/hvac-rebate-to-qualified-floridiana-039-s

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August 26, 2010 15:57:47

The importance of a home inspection

There are many homes on the market today many of them because of foreclosure or short sell. Unfortunately, these homes may have sat unoccupied for months in some cases years. Some of these homes have been deemed "distressed" properties and may have been vandalized, neglected, purposefully damaged and often times stripped of all fixtures. These homes can certainly be picked up for discounted prices but can come with big surprises.

We always recommend that buyers get a home inspection prior to closing on their new home. A home inspection can protect buyers from problem that are not visible to the untrained eye. The inspector will test the homes systems and physical structure from foundation to roof and everything in between.

Generally an inspector will test and inspect the homes heating system, central air system, plumbing and electrical systems, the roof, attic, insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors. They will then make a report often times including pictures of damaged areas and an estimate of the costs involved in replacement or fixing the issue at hand. Inspectors have also been trained in spotting the signs of Chinese drywall.

If problems are found it certainly doesn't mean that you shouldn't purchase the home, it will give you a clearer picture of what to expect and to make a budget for the repairs. If major problems exist the seller may make the necessary repairs prior to closing or discount the homes price allowing you extra money to make them yourself. Do not count on bank owned properties to be repaired you are generally buying these properties "as is" If your budget is tight or the thought of becoming involved in repair work or future repairs doesn't interest you then maybe the house isn't for you.

Home inspections may seem to be expensive at the time but their report may save you thousand in the long run. It is so important to hire an inspector that is reputable and thorough, it is also a great idea to ask for and call their references.

If we can help you with you buying or selling needs please don't hesitate to call. We look forward to hearing from you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team

http://www.florida-future-realty.com/the-importance-of-a-home-inspection

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August 18, 2010 12:48:24

The History of Cape Coral

Leonard and Jack Rosen had a vision, they believed that this area's (Cape Coral) proximity to the Gulf of Mexico would make it irresistible to homebuyers drawn to a waterfront lifestyle. The Rosen's referred to Cape Coral as a "Waterfront Wonderland." They began to make that a reality and purchased a 103 square mile tract know as Redfish Point, for $678,000. In November 1957 the construction began, and Cape Coral was born. A system of canals was constructed spanning more than 400 miles, which were dug up to elevate and fill the land; most areas were below sea level.

Cape Coral was constructed at an astounding pace. A few short months after its construction (June 1958) the first residents moved in. The home sites were priced to sell. Water views were $990.00 waterfront lots were $1900 and the riverfront home sites were offered for $3390. The first year of sales reached over $9 million dollars, which peaked the interest of northerners looking for a great place to relax and retire. Cape Coral was heavily promoted through mail order, radio ads, T.V. and print. Soon curious people were flying down in droves to take a peak and hear a high pressure sales pitch.

Unfortunately the infrastructure didn't match the influx of people moving to the area, there was only one building in Cape Coral in 1958, it was a four-plex designated as the housing land office. Residents were forced to travel more than 20 miles to shop for supplies. The problem was rectified in March of 1964 when the Cape Coral Bridge was opened to traffic. This new bridge made Cape Coral more assessable than ever and the population exploded.

In 1970 Cape Coral was incorporated as a city and was deemed one of the fastest growing cities in Florida. Today, Cape Coral still continues to grow featuring waterfront properties on canals, lakes and basins ; many of which have direct access to the Pine Island Sound and Caloosahatchee River, making this city a water enthusiasts dream. Come visit our city and see for yourself.

More fun facts:

Median age 43 as of 2010
Cape Coral is 120 square miles making it the second largest city in Florida
Second lowest index crime rate of Florida cities with populations over 150,000
More than 400 miles of waterways
Median household income $55,989

As always if we can assist you in your buying or selling need please don't hesitate to call. We look forward to working with you.

Yours in Success,

The Florida Future Realty Team