http://www.condo.com/Condo.com - Condo Newsen©2007 US Condo Exchange, LLC.Thu, 02 Jul 2009 20:20:00 GMTThu, 02 Jul 2009 20:20:00 GMThttp://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/Investment-Opportunity-in-Brazil5fb59c50-a3d7-46c6-94bb-fd5f2da0ab39Thu, 02 Jul 2009 20:20:00 GMT


For primary investors looking to invest based purely on capital appreciation, Palm Springs delivers a fantastic opportunity for single or multiple purchases. With a straightforward, affordable payment structure and with pre-launch prices being hugely attractive and creating a large amount of interest, the opportunity to ‘flip’ the investment at various stages of purchase dependent on finance and timescale, Palm Springs is a special opportunity with strong investment forecasts.

The concept of land banking in Brazil is fast becoming a feasible and accessible investment strategy. The practice of purchasing land with the intent to hold on to it until such a time as it is highly profitable to sell it on to others for substantially more than was initially paid. Investing in Brazilian land in areas of regeneration and development has been a popular choice for foreign investors in recent years.

When operating within the correct environment, land banking can be hugely lucrative with 20-30% ROI per year a common profitability level. Land differs from real estate investment in that, whilst market forces can affect its value, getting planning permission converts it into a higher demanded entity and thus prompts huge increases in value.

For more information please Click Here.

]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/-New-Condos-Now-Available-in-Latin-Americaceac9f31-9bb9-4e6f-b479-4df83b40deedTue, 30 Jun 2009 18:36:00 GMT

Panama



Villa Del Mar is an exclusive 31-story apartment building and is located in the heart of downtown Panama City’s financial district offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views and panoramic city views. It is situated on the corner of Calle Uruguay, Panama’s premier restaurant and entertainment venue, Villa del Mar offers the perfect mix of culture, leisure and business.


Nicaragua



Seaside Mariana is establishing a new standard for luxury and quality in Nicaragua. We are offering a range of upscale residential options, built to North American standards, and centered on a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, world-class spa, beach club and town center that will provide residents and visitors an incomparable experience and investment opportunity. And all of this is being built in an absolutely beautiful natural setting along an unspoiled stretch of beach on the Pacific Ocean.


Mexico



Situated on the Flamingo coast in the Yucatan region of Mexico, Flamingo Lakes Resort has everything you could possibly ask for at affordable prices. This area of Mexico was recently featured as one of the top 5 real estate investments in the world by Fortune magazine. A private and exclusive, environmentally friendly paradise, the development has everything for the investment or lifestyle buyer, for an unforgettable living experience. Close to Merida - one of the most cosmopolitan diverse, safe and colorful cities in Mexico- on The Yucatan Peninsula, one of the richest archaeological zones in the ancient Mesoamerica world.

]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/10-Tips-for-Buying-and-Selling-Condos-in-Todays-Marketffc91c37-85eb-48e7-b51c-bb7f0cd47c77Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:52:00 GMT

A productive cash flow turns the wheels of the condo market - whether you are a buyer or a seller. Most buyers need backing (financing) and sellers need sales. In order to get the best deal, buyers and sellers need to understand the process. Both parties must know how to avoid the pitfalls.

5 Tips for Buyers

1. Financing Comes First

Financing issues are responsible for wrecking many deals. Figure out which form of financing works best for you. Remember that pre-approval is the preferred way to go into a deal.

2. Fannie and Freddie May Not Be Friendly

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, government-controlled mortgage companies, have their place. As of March 2009, however, they tightened their restrictions on mortgages for condos (new or newly constructed). At present, they will only consider mortgages if 70% of the units have sold or are under contract.

3. Know Your Association

As people face financial challenges, many are falling behind on association dues. This delinquency forces condo associations to pass on the debt to other condo owners. Fannie Mae won't purchase mortgages for condos if 15% or more are over 30 days late with payments.

4. Look for the FHA Seal of Approval

A building with the FHA seal of approval can mean a much lower down payment for many buyers. A down payment can be as low as 3.5% of the purchase price of the condo. The mortgage process also moves much faster for condos with FHA approval.

5. Prepare Your Down Payment

Private lenders can require a substantial down payment from condo buyers. Consider your budget and research your options. Seek out condo experts who can find the best deal for you.


5 Tips for Sellers

1. Compare Prices

You may be the seller but you still have to compare prices - the sale prices of your competition! To get the most money, you want to set your price at the top rate acceptable to a buyer. You don't, however, want to turn buyers away with unreasonable prices.

2. Go with the Experts

Find a condo expert! They have a history with the condo buyer. They can use that expertise to effectively market and build interest in your condo.

3. Create a Counter Offer

Sellers must remember that they can create counter offers. If you like a price but don't favor some of the terms, consider a counter offer. Get the best deal for you!

4. Be Willing To Negotiate

The best offer comes about when both parties feel they have won points. A seller needs to bargain from a strong position. Try not to be so difficult, however, that you turn away every potential buyer.

5. Consider the Cost of Closing

Sellers of condos also have closing costs. These charges can add up so you must factor them into your plan. These costs can include real estate broker fees, processing fees, and transfer taxes.

Low interest rates, affordable prices, and government programs are fueling the current condo market. The time is perfect for either buying or selling a condo. Whether you are looking for a home or planning to sell and move on, you can still get the most from today's condo market.

]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/New-San-Francisco-Penthouses-Released4e1e4e60-f35c-42c9-9b59-30d3ee0097f2Fri, 26 Jun 2009 19:28:00 GMT

Soma Grand, the first all-residential high-rise in San Francisco to feature hotel-quality services and amenities, is almost 80% sold out. Penthouse units were released last week and were received with resounding enthusiasm.

Soma Grand, one of San Francisco’s most popular luxury high-rises, released 10 Penthouse homes to the marketplace last week and two homes went into contract immediately. Homes at Soma Grand are well regarded in the City for their magnificent dead-on downtown and Bay views and ample natural light.  Along with the Penthouse release, several of the best 2-bedroom homes are now available for sale.

Located in a prime city location within walking distance to Union Square, the Civic Center, museums, restaurants, and neighborhoods like Hayes Valley and the Castro, Soma Grand also boasts a range of in-house hospitality services and hotel-quality amenities. 

Property amenities include a private landscaped terrace with a spa, garden, barbeque area, cabanas, fire pit, state-of-the-art fitness center, meditation room, club room with a chef’s kitchen, revolving art gallery, concierge services by Joie de Vivre, covered parking, twice monthly housekeeping and a restaurant adjacent to the lobby by one of San Francisco’s acclaimed chefs, Charles Phan.



Soma Grand sets a new benchmark for affordable luxury living in San Francisco. Residents have unparalleled access to, and views of, one of the world’s most beautiful cities from their exquisitely designed homes.  Services and hospitality are provided by one of California’s leading hotel groups, Joie de Vivre, ensuring quality and a committed attention to detail.  After selling for just over a year, the building is almost 80% sold out with many of the best homes being released for the first time.  Find out more about Soma Grand at www.SomaGrand.com.

]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/New-Luxury-Rental-Condos-now-Featured-on-Condo.comc6ab6396-559e-4b57-b49a-3b84e8e98150Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:57:00 GMT

Units at the posh brand new Artech condominiums in Aventura, FL are now available to renters.

Located along the coveted street known as “Thunder Alley,” the historic hub of the world’s most prominent powerboat manufacturers, ArTech spans seven acres along the Intracoastal Waterway in Aventura, along 900 feet of unobstructed waterfront.

Amidst nine stories, ArTech features from one-bedroom, one-bathroom bachelor pads, to bay homes and grand three-level penthouses with terraces or gardens overlooking views beyond. All ArTech residences feature floor-to-ceiling windows, Italian cabinetry and top-of-the-line appliances in kitchens, designer fixtures and faucets along with marble vanities in bathrooms, washer/dryer, and more luxury finishes.

Outdoor amenities at Artech include use of a 177-foot triangular infinity-edge swimming pool, a waterfront whirlpool spa, two tennis courts and private marina. Limitless indoor amenities to please the senses include access to a private cinema, state-of-the-art Wellness Center with yoga/Pilates & dance studio/spinning room, a spa area with Turkish bath, massage rooms and saunas, indoor racquetball courts and other perks.

Renters who are interested in this ultra-luxury building can view photos and information on available units by clicking here.

]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/Green-Condominium-in-North-Carolina-now-Featured-on-Condo.coma914d47e-ecb3-4e8f-9118-e1361e3b8d8aMon, 22 Jun 2009 20:18:00 GMT

Condo.com is proud to announce that units at the Landing at Southpoint condominiums are now available on the site.

The Landing at Southpoint is the Triangle’s smartest and greenest condominium community and offers 54 Luxury flats situated on a one in-a-million site. Less than 5 minutes from RTP and less than 3 miles from streets at Southpoint, the community borders a lush federally-protected waterfowl and wetland area. It is an oasis centrally located within the urban fabric Durham, N.C

Of course, a location this good demands a design that aspires to greatness. Indeed, it deserves a plan that delivers luxury finishes and materials, resort-quality amenities and dramatic landscaping. But more than that, it deserves a design that takes responsibility for its own impact on environment and the health of all who call it home.

Through careful planning and innovative design, The Landing delivers. It is the first condominium community in North Carolina to pursue the distinguished “LEED for Homes” certification.

Buyers who are interested in this luxury project can find more information and pictures of the property by clicking here.

]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/Bankruptcy-Auction-at-Bentley-Bay-Condominiums-in-South-Beachbbaa389d-6b35-4eab-b6d2-33b31f7f061eMon, 22 Jun 2009 19:59:00 GMT

Three condos at the Bentley Bay Condominiums in Miami Beach, FL are set for bankruptcy auction on July 14th, 2009 at 11:00AM.

Located in famous South Beach with spectacular waterfront views and minutes from Downtown Miami, major highways, and Miami International Airport. One of the three condos to be auctioned is a luxurious penthouse.

The building offers wonderful features and amenities including a luxurious fifth floor pool and deck with dual jacuzzis, floor to ceiling impact resistant energy efficient tinted blue glass sliding doors and windows and breathtaking panoramic views of Miami Beach, Biscayne Bay, and Downtown Miami.

The auction will be held on site at the Bentley Bay in unit 2301. Interested buyers can view photos, information and arrange tours of the property by clicking here.

]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/Condo.com-is-Hiring-Agents-and-Brokers-Nationwideadb898b1-b6d4-425f-9bd8-a9284c485e44Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:44:00 GMT

Are you an agent or broker in the U.S.? Then Condo.com has new career and partnership opportunities for you. We are working to grow our team of real estate brokers, agents and lead referral partners nationwide and have hundreds of available positions.
 
Our brokers, agents and lead referral partners are referred qualified buyer and rental leads and are provided all the tools they need for success in real estate. In addition to having clients referred to them, agents will also receive the following benefits by working with Condo.com. Full marketing support, a CRM account to manage leads, a power agent profile, featured listings on Condo.com, inclusion in the weekly newsletter, Local and Building Expert advertising in service territories and other great tools.
 
The program is FREE to join and we are currently offering some of the best commission splits of any real estate brokerage in the country for brokers, agents and lead referral partners who join our team. This also includes a tiered commission structure that allows agents to increase their commission splits based on closed sales and other opportunities to expand their real estate business.
 
Real estate brokers and agents who are interested in joining the team or who would like more information about working with Condo.com can submit their information by Clicking Here. ]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/Tax-Credit-Can-Be-Turned-Into-Cash-At-Closingc6d2c48d-cf9e-47b8-83fb-c6c488d06c31Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:46:00 GMT


Everyone's Dream - $8000 Housing Credit Turns Into $8000 Cash

On May 29, the Obama administration made it easier for many Americans to realize their dream of home ownership. The previously announced $8000. credit for first-time home buyers can now be turned into cash at closing. The buyers, however, must be using Federal Housing Administration mortgage financing (FHA).

The $8000. credit (or 10% of the home's price, whichever is less) has been monetized and can be accessed before closing. Short term loans through approved lenders are available under certain conditions. These loans allow individuals to get cash for to increase their down payment, "buy down" their interest rate, or pay closing costs.

The program will make a huge impact as the FHA handles about 25% of new mortgages. The $8000. credit has already boosted the housing market. This new development is expected to interject new life into the economy.

Who Qualifies For The Program?

You Must Be A First-time Home Owner Using FHA Financing

The term "first-time" owner isn't meant in the literal sense. If you haven't owned a principal residence within 3 years of the purchase, then you are considered a first-time home owner. If you build a home after January 1, 2009 and occupy it before December 1, 2009, you can also be eligible for this program.

Your Income Must Fall Within A Certain Range

The income limit for single taxpayers is $75,000 MAGI (modified adjustment gross income). The income  limit for married taxpayers filing a joint return is $150,000. The credit amount is gradually reduced as incomes rise over $75,000 (single) and over $150,000 (married). The credit ceases to exist at an income of $95,000. (single) and $170,000. (married).
.You Need To Invest In Your Home

Purchasing a home is a huge investment. The Department of  Housing and Urban Development requires a sign of commitment on your part. If you obtain FHA loans through private lenders, you (through savings, gifts, or other) must invest at least 3.5% down payment. If you obtain FHA loans through a state housing agency "tax credit monetization" program, you are eligible to receive a bridge loan to cover the entire down payment.


How To Get The Credit

Start Now

Your closing must occur by November 30, 2009 to be eligible for this credit. This program was only announced in recent days. Every lender may not be ready yet for the process. Many companies, however, are ready for your business. You need to seek out a lender at the very first opportunity. Home sales don't close overnight! You must start now to ensure that you meet the deadline.

Have Your Paperwork In Place

Your lender has to prepare for your business. You have to be ready to meet their requirements as stipulated by FHA guidelines.

Complete IRS Form 5405

Your lender will require a completed IRS Form 5405. You can file for this credit on your 2009 tax return. You can also make amendments to your 2008 income tax return.

Proof Of Eligibility For Total Credit

Your lender needs to know if anything will reduce or cancel out your credit. You have to provide proof that you have no outstanding judgements, unpaid taxes, or other obligations.

Confirmation From Your Employer

Your lender needs to be certain that your credit won't be affected by wage garnishments.

Should I Take Advantage of This Credit?

The National Association Of Home Builders estimates that the credit will be responsible for an extra 160,000 home sales across America. This program can help speed up the process of home ownership. The credit and the market makes it tempting to become a home owner. Owning a home is a big commitment. Is the dream right for you? Only you can make that decision!










]]>http://www.condo.com/Learn/CondoNews/Prediction-Auburn-Football-Fans-are-Going-to-Love-This1bbd5b09-7d45-4863-896f-2db5ea009fc7Fri, 05 Jun 2009 19:08:00 GMT


Roebuck Auctions has signed on to auction the last 49 units at Tiger Suites!  12 condos will be sold ABSOLUTE, regardless of price (bidder's choice)!

There are two main types of auction -- absolute and reserve. In an absolute auction, the seller guarantees to sell the property on auction day regardless of price. Absolute auctions typically attract more bidders and achieve higher prices, because bidders know that the property will be sold.  In a reserve auction, a seller can accept or reject the final bid. This reserve can be set before the auction and published. A variation is an auction with a published reserve.

Tiger Suites is the perfect home (or game-day home) for Auburn football fans.  Host your pre-game party in the luxury of your very own suite, you may have an ‘eagles eye view’ of Jordan Hare from your room. On your way to the game mingle with fellow fans along Tiger Walk. At the game be on the lookout for Aubie while you’re cheering for the Auburn Tigers… WARRR EAGLE! After the game, while you’ll probably be rolling Toomer’s corner Tiger Suites will be rolling out the southern hospitality ready for your return. Meet up with your friends for a relaxed social hour in the ‘Tiger Den’, photograph an orange and blue sunset from your balcony, take a soak in the large whirlpool, or work off some of that game day food in the exercise room.

The units are FULLY FURNISHED AND READY. POA dues cover everything except long distance phone and electric.

Location Description:
Two blocks from Jourdan-Hare Stadium!!! Enough said about location.  7 different floor plans. Available units include 3 Junior Suites, 2 Studio Suites, 6 One Bedroom Suites, 16 Deluxe One Bedroom Suites, 15 Two Bedroom Suites, 4 Two Bedroom Suites with Lockout, and 3 Deluxe Two Bedroom Suites.

The auction will take place Saturday, June 27th at 11:07am CDT at 430 West Glen Avenue, Auburn, Alabama 36832

View more information about available units by visiting the Tiger Suites condos building gallery.

Don't miss the Pre-Auction TAILGATE PARTY on June 20th from 1pm to 5pm by calling Jay Lockridge at 256-520-9229 or emailing him at JayL@RoebuckAuctions.com

See you in Auburn!

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