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Builder Confidence Holds Firm in January By Robert Dietz Builder confidence in the market for newly-built single-family homes held steady at 60 in January from a downwardly revised December reading of 60, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI). The January HMI reading is in line with NAHB’s forecast of modest growth for housing. NAHB expects growth in 2016 for the single-family, multifamily, and remodeling sectors of the residential construction industry as continued job growth supports demand for housing.

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Events In Fort Lauderdale | Recovering After The Festivities Yeah yeah, 2016 is upon us. New Year's Resolutions and all that other palava. If you are like me, the December festivities have taken their toll on me. I want to relax, not go near a mall or shopping center and stay clear away from chocolates, cakes, wines and well, you know. I have decided that the events in Fort Lauderdale I attend will be all about well-being and frankly all about me. Living in Fort Lauderdale getting back on track from the holiday festivities is quite easy (big sigh of relief). Having said that, I have decided to use the offerings on Groupon this month and really pack my month with well deserved luxuries.

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Imperial Point, Fort Lauderdale | Real Estate Update 2015     The year ends with my review of Imperial Point in Fort Lauderdale. Currently, there are twenty-five single family homes for sale in this subdivision in Broward County. The listed price for sale ranges from $294,700 for a two bedroom and two bathroom residence to a four bedroom with three bathroom property listed for sale at $579,000. Houses that stand out from the others include:

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Living On The East Side of Fort Lauderdale | 5251 NE 19th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale Kathleen and I just took a new listing on the east side of Fort Lauderdale. The address is 5251 NE 19th Avenue in Fort Lauderdale, 33308. This home is listed for sale at  $324,950. You all know my theme when it comes to east side living in Fort Lauderdale... LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. When it comes to this home's spot on the planet, this property ticks all the boxes. Within moments of the intracoastal and Atlantic Ocean It's a quick jaunt to downtown Fort Lauderdale A Hop, skip and a jump to major roads and thoroughfares including Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

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Follow The Money | Broward County Real Estate This month in my series “ Follow The Money” I present to you the potential “game changers” in real estate. There is a massive influx of investment taking place in South Florida.This potential to renovate and rejuvenate has not been seen in decades.  Evidence of this type of transformation can be found in the Miami/Dade areas of Wynwood, MIMO, Edgewater and Overtown to name a few. Investors see the potential for growth in these areas. You should also take note.

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 6 Fun Facts About Columbus Day  Yes, we are coming upon a holiday weekend. The Columbus Day Holiday in Fort Lauderdale is a retail merchants extravaganza. It is a federal holiday in the United States when typically banks and posts offices are closed. My bank is open, but I will not go there. But contrary to popular believe this Columbus Day Holiday in Fort Lauderdale has a historical meaning. Here is the intel on this event:

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Boost Curb Appeal in a Day Sometimes when planning to sell a house in the name of renovating interior living spaces, updating bathrooms, replacing appliances and adding decorative touches throughout the bedrooms, homeowners leave outdoor curb appeal as a last priority. While of course the inside of a home is important, sellers make a big mistake when they neglect the exterior. Why is a home’s exterior so important?  Consider this: Curb appeal is often a potential buyer’s first impression of a home, the very thing that helps him/her decide whether or not to come inside. Whether they’re shopping online or by cruising through neighborhoods, the outside of your property is the first thing they’ll notice. If you’re selling your home or about to, how can you quickly and effectively tackle the outdoor appeal? Here are some key tips for boosting the curb appeal in a way that means quick turnaround and increased home value:

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(BPT) - If you're planning to take on a home improvement project, you're in good company. A recent report by the Joint Center of Housing Studies at Harvard University predicts that the home improvement industry is expected to post record-level spending this year. As you prepare for your renovation, it’s important to review your financing options based on the size of the project, your intended repayment plan and whether you plan to use a contractor or do it yourself.  6 ways to finance a renovation to consider: Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) - A HELOC can provide ongoing access to funds using the equity in your home, which typically results in lower interest rates than unsecured credit. This type of credit may also provide you potential tax benefits. Consult your tax advisor regarding the deductibility of interest. Mortgages with Built-In Renovation Financing - These loans help homeowners complete renovations with a loan amount that is based on an appraiser's estimate of what the property value will be with completed improvements. This is also an option for aspiring homeowners who purchase properties that need repair. Whether a home purchase or a refinance, this option finances the renovations and mortgage in one loan.

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Rising Rent May Not Drive Homeownership, Research Says Recent research sheds light on the question: Are rising rents driving residents to homeownership? The research, done by Freddie Mac, shows that the majority of renters are staying put despite rising rents and favorable perceptions about renting are increasing. Freddie Mac commissioned Harris Poll to survey more than 2,000 U.S. adults online in March 2015 to get their perceptions about renting.