Purchasing a Foreclosure in Ormond Beach, FL

While you can get great bargains now in foreclosed, bank-owned, and short sale properties in our Ormond Beach areas, you need to do your homework and apply extra due diligence to make sure you aren't stuck with repair bills that exceed your savings.

Here are just a few points to look for - before you make that offer and hire an inspector:

1. If the house in unheated - even in Florida, on our colder days, the heat needs to be on. If the home has not been properly winterized or insulated, you could have damage and pay a lot in utility bills.
2. Missing sinks, toilets, fixtures - have they been removed or ripped out? Be very conservative when you do estimates for replacements.
3. Peeling, bubbling, discolored paint, swelling in walls or ceilings, musty odor - these all can indicate water damage. In our climate, that could also mean mildew and mold.
4. Fungus growth inside cabinets, behind drawers and built-ins - the growth can indicate water damage, which - you know now - is not a good sign. Water drips down, so look for the source above the mold.
5. Blocked drains or pipes will cause future problems, period - there may already be sewage backups.
6. Black cobwebs, greasy gray residue on walls, strong oily odors - these can indicate a malfunctioning furnace.
7. If you are looking at older homes, many need extensive renovations. These may include getting permits which were overlooked, removing asbestos, and expensive remodeling.
8. Excessive new paint - track down the source. What were the previous owners trying to cover up?

With a bank-owned house, there is no seller's disclosure and you as buyer are entirely responsible for inspections. It is imperative you hire qualified and recommended inspectors and be very attentive to their findings. I can help you with this process - you need an experienced Realtor on your side so you don't end up paying way over the bargain you wanted.

Contact me today, and read on my web site, to find out what a Certified Distressed Property Expert can do for you.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Ormond Beach FL Rockefeller Mansion will Reopen

The Casements, the historic mansion of oil magnate John D. Rockefeller, reopened Thursday in Ormond Beach, following a $1.1 million renovation.

The building has been closed since May for the renovation, which included waterproofing the basement, repairs to the first floor framing, the addition of a new patio, and renovation of the interior to make it more historically accurate.

Originally built in 1915, the 5,000-square-foot house was bought by Rockefeller in 1918 and was his winter home. He died at the Casements in 1937 at the age of 97.

The renovations were paid with $645,400 in Ormond Beach city funds and a $467,450 grant from the Volusia ECHO program, a county fund for environmental, cultural, historic or outdoors projects.

The grand re-opening festivities included a free holiday concert by the Moonlighters Swing Band.

The ECHO Grants-in-Aid program of Volusia County is a "bricks-and-mortar" program, providing grant funds to finance acquisition, restoration, construction, or improvement of facilities to be used for environmental/ecological, cultural, historical/heritage, or outdoor recreation purposes that must be open for public use. Projects helped over time have included the Lively Arts Center, trail construction under the county's Trails Master Plan, a performing arts center in Daytona Beach, and many smaller projects throughout the county.

Our lifestyle here in Ormond Beach is active, energetic, varied, and waiting for you. Search Ormond Beach homes for sale on my web site, and contact me for real estate information on any community of interest.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Ormond Beach New Year Family Cycling Festival

To be held Jan 9, at the Casements/Rockefeller Gardens Park on Riverside Drive, this year's 2nd annual Ormond Beach New Year Family Cycling Festival will be sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Ormond Beach.

Usually "bike" events don't mean the 2-wheel manual type, but this Ormond Beach Florida festival offers something for "real" cyclists down to tricycle riders. For the serious cyclists, the Seashore Century Ride features two segments starting at 8 a.m. -- the Metric Century with 62 miles and the Metric Half Century with 31 miles. Those pre-registering by Jan. 4 ride for $25. On-site registration is $30 beginning at 7 a.m. Jan. 9. For children and families, the festival also will offer tricycle and Big Wheel races for ages 5 and younger as well as two- and four-mile family rides beginning at 9 a.m.

The event is designed to appeal to all ages. Children ride and receive lunch for $15 per child; parents ride free and may purchase lunch. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Outback Steakhouse will provide lunch to registered riders while those just stopping by for the activities also will be able to purchase lunch if they choose. Sandy Fraser-Kiefer and her VanGo Mobile Museum will be on hand and there will be face-painting and other family-oriented activities. The Ormond Beach Fire Department will display a fire engine and firefighters will provide safety talks.

This is a major fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club, and proceeds will be donated to several childen's organizations and area schools. Mark Jan. 9 on your calendar and come join the fun.

For information about our Ormond Beach communities, visit the Ormond Beach page on my web site, and contact me for real estate data on any location.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

(resource: News-JournalOnline)

Foreclosures in Ormond Beach and Volusia County Continue to Climb

November's foreclosure activity across Volusia and Flagler counties more than doubled compared with last year. There were 1,851 default notices, scheduled foreclosure auctions and lender repossessions in November in the two-county area. That's up 51 percent from 1,227 filings in November 2008, according to Wednesday's U.S. Foreclosure Market Report released by the California firm RealtyTrac.

"We are seeing an interesting change," said Judge William Parsons, one of four Volusia County circuit judges hearing foreclosure cases. "It used to be the three D's. Death, disability and divorce were the causes of foreclosures. Then it changed to people struggling with adjustable rate mortgages and now we are seeing more impacted by unemployment."

Many foreclosure cases involve delinquent loans well in excess of $100,000 and even up to $400,000, Parsons said. "And those are not the average mortgages in Volusia County," he said. "That tells me we are dealing with a lot of people who refinanced and took out home equity loans." Most distressed borrowers are giving up and not challenging the foreclosure action, or fighting to negotiate a loan modification, Parsons said.

But - you do NOT HAVE to go to foreclosure! YOU HAVE OPTIONS! I'm a Certified Distressed Property Expert with special training in keeping your property out of foreclosure. Contact me before you get too far behind in your mortgage payments. Read the information on my web page about Bank-Owned Homes, and call or email me now!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

(resource: News-Journal)

Ormond Beach FL Holiday Activities

Ormond Beach offers many seasonal festivities for your enjoyment. Here, courtesy of East Volusia, News-JournalOnline, are a few of the most popular.

Dec. 12

Meet M/M Claus
The Ormond-by-the-Sea Lions Club has arranged to have Santa and Mrs. Claus at Alfie's Restaurant, 1666 Oceanshore Blvd., from 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 12 for breakfast with Santa. The club will have a float in the Ormond Beach Holiday parade at 6:30 p.m. at Division Street and U.S. 1. The club is also sponsoring a "Holiday Tree" adorned with ornaments in honor of or memory of a loved one. Personalized ornaments are $5 for one or $10 for three to be hung on the tree at the restaurant. For more information, call 386-441-7024.

Christmas Parade
Kids of all ages are sure to be lining up early for one of the season's highlights, the city's Christmas parade that will begin at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 12. The theme of the 19th annual parade is "An Evergreen Holiday" and this year will mark the seventh time the parade has been held in the evening. Colorful floats, marching bands, decorated vehicles and walkers will begin the 1.5-mile route at Yonge Street (U.S. 1) and Division Avenue, move north to Granada Boulevard (State Road 40) and then east to South Beach Street. Next, a right turn will take the parade a short distance to Tomoka Avenue and another right turn just beyond the library will lead to the parking lot where participants disband. For more parade information, call 386-676-3241.

Christmas Cantata
Christ Presbyterian Church, 1035 W. Granada Blvd., presents "God So Loved the World" a Christmas Cantata at 2 p.m. Dec. 12 and 4 p.m. Dec. 13. The annual Cantata dinner will follow the Sunday performance. For more information, call 386-677-4076.

Dec. 17

Free Concert in the Gardens
A free concert featuring The Moonlighters Orchestra, directed by Dr. Joseph Mirante, will take place in Rockefeller Gardens at The Casements, 25 Riverside Drive, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 17. Four hundred seats will be arranged on the east side of the Halifax River where Mike Fisher, as Mr. Rockefeller, and Calvin Sandlin, as Santa, will mingle among guests following the concert.

Dec. 18

Volunteer Opportunity: God's Little Angels, a registered nonprofit, will be delivering holiday gifts of food, hot chocolate, paper goods and other necessities to local senior citizens in need as part of its annual "Winter Wonderland" giveaway on Dec. 18. To help, call Mary Barrs at 386-253-5349 or make monetary donations to God's Little Angels, Inc. at SunTrust Bank, 2300 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach Shores, FL 32118, attn: Sue Register.

La Familglia Italia
The Italian Club of Ormond Beach will have its annual Christmas dinner and dance on Dec. 18 at the Elk's Club, 285 Wilmette Ave. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with dinner at 7. Music by The Main Event. Unwrapped toys for Toys for Tots will be collected. Tickets are $20 for members; $23 for nonmembers. Reservation deadline is Dec. 14. For more information, call 386-441-0244 or 386-677-6704.

Dec. 19

Have Breakfast with Santa
From 8 to 11 a.m. Dec. 19, kids will not only surround Santa at The Casements, they can share a meal with him. There will be three seatings -- 8 a.m., 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. -- and each will each accommodate up to 80 diners. Pancakes, sausage, orange juice, coffee and hot chocolate will be served. Advance tickets, $5 per person, are required. Tickets are available at The Casements or for more information, call 386-676-3216.

There's no reason in Ormond Beach not to find some way to feel the holiday spirit and share it with others. If you are reading this in the wintry weather of most of the east part of the country, make your reservations now and come on down!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Oceanfront Home on Ormond Beach FL

Best Oceanfront location in Ormond Beach - this is your dream house set high over the no-drive beach. Enjoy spectacular sunrise and moonrise scenes across beautiful landscaping to your own private ocean dunes.

This special home is not just on the ocean, but located across the street from a country club golf course - so you have views of the course from the second floor sunset party deck.

The open floor plan is both dramatic and functional, from the sweeping massive oak staircase in the large entry foyer, to the floor-to-ceiling fireplace on the ocean wall, to the clarity of views of the beach and ocean through the all new hurricane-rated windows and French doors on both first and second levels.

A soaring wood cathedral ceiling dominates the first level. The fully equipped eat-in kitchen provides ocean views for the chef. Multiple-windowed French doors open to the newly tiled patio for entertaining and better views. A large oceanfront family room adds to the feeling that the home is built to enjoy the oceanfront and bring the seashore ambience inside.

Renovations include all new windows and exterior glass doors; resurfacing of all kitchen and bath cabinetry; interior and exterior paint; railings on the multiple porches and decks; new A/C unit (one of two); new travertine tile patios surrounding the home; all new carpeting in bedrooms and loft. The Mediterranean tile roof was new in 2005. The first floor is dominated by the soaring wood cathedral ceiling, from which hang multiple fans and chandeliers, over the wide open foyer, dining and living room areas. The fully equipped eat-in kitchen provides ocean views for the chef. Multiple windowed French doors open to the newly tiled patio for enjoyment of the fabulous ocean views.

Details: 3 bedrooms/3 baths/3540 SF interior/3-car garage with workshop. Lot 80X248, 19,840 SF. Built 1988. Porch, patio, dining room, family room, central air, central heat, fireplace.

Asking price for this magnificent waterfront Ormond Beach home is $1,900,000. While not my listing, I can serve you as Buyer's Agent and set up a private preview of the property or of any oceanfront or beachfront home in the area.

If you have wanted an oceanfront home in a tropical location, close to golf and a thriving community just minutes away, this is your special place.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/

Ormond Beach a Top Town to Retire

In its forthcoming edition, Where to Retire magazine has picked Ormond Beach as one of eight ideal places to relocate when looking for coastal real-estate bargains in the United States. The other golden spots for the golden years are: seven villages on Cape Cod, Mass.; Hilton Head, S.C.; Naples, Fla.; Galveston, Texas; Oceanside, Calif.; Florence, Ore., and Whidbey Island, Wash.

Mary Lu Abbott, the magazine's editor, said Ormond Beach was selected because of its "exceptional good buys" in housing and natural beauty. "It's a desirable smaller city with many amenities, without the hassle of bigger places," she said. "It's really an attractive area that has all the perks, and real estate is thousands of dollars less than a few years ago."

This is an honor for Ormond Beach, and reinforces what I've been saying all along. Our lifestyle and amenties are some of the best in the country, and our real estate prices are so affordable you should consider at least purchasing a small condo to enjoy during those winter months.

Contact me to discuss all the activities available here for seniors - and the real estate opportunities.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Flagler Beach Oceanshore Home near Ormond Beach FL

Located 68 miles south of Jacksonville between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach, Flagler Beach is a narrow island bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Intracoastal Waterway. It’s less than 10 minutes off I-95 and only a few miles to popular Ormond Beach. Population 5400, the town is part of the growing Palm Coast Area, a twenty-mile stretch of scenic coastline that is a sportsman’s haven.

Visitors, as well as those looking to relocate, are discovering the area’s lifestyle advantages: close proximity to resort and culture centers, tranquil waterways, subtropical forests and freshwater lakes, first-class golf and amenities, and the absence of the stress and fast pace of larger cities.

Here's a home for sale in Flagler Beach just new in our MLS. The property is a 3-story ocean view home on a corner lot. Two 10x30 decks on the 2nd & 3rd floors offer unbelievable views. A fenced-in 18x30 salt pool with 1150 sq ft of brand new decking creates a private outdoor entertaining area. The home is newly landscaped and painted, and has hurricane panels for all window and doors on the eastside of the house. There's also an outdoor shower and pool bath to wash that sand off from the beach. A/C has a warranty through 2013, and most appliances are included. 3 bedrooms/2 baths, built 2003, 1920 SF living area, 5,000 SF lot. Listed at only $599,000 - for oceanviews and across from the beach!

Prices are so low here now you can get an oceanview or oceanfront home for a huge discount compared to only a couple of years ago. Visit the Waterfront Homes page on my web site, and the Flagler Beach page, both of which offer you widgets to search for homes. Then contact me for private previews of any you see, or real estate market information for Flagler Beach and other oceanfront communities near Ormond Beach.

Live the beach lifestyle you've always dreamed of at affordable prices.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/

Plantation Bay in Ormond Beach - Homes for Sale at Great Prices

Three new listings arrived on our MLS this week in Plantation Bay of Ormond Beach, underscoring the great values available now in this prestigious golf community.

Plantation Bay is a gated non-age restricted golf community. Country club offers two eighteen hole golf courses and one nine hole course, two clubhouses, lighted tennis courts, fitness center and swimming pool. Country club membership is optional and is offered at several levels.

This 1st home is an Ashley model on a large lot, backing to a conservation area. The home features a pool and spa, heated by gas or solar. The kitchen showcases granite counters, tiled backsplash, maple tongue-and-groove cabinetry, and stainless appliances. Enjoy the fireplace the next few months, and the landscaping and flower beds come spring. The home is 3 bedrooms/2 baths, 2,105 SF interior, 20,424 SF lot, built 2007. Asking $323,000.

The 2nd home is a Montego model with an open floor plan. The kitchen is light and bright and the 2-car garage offers built-in cabinets, window, and side door. This is also 3 bedrooms/2 baths, 2172 SF interior, 6000 SF lot, built 1997. Asking $175,000. HOA fees are $306/quarterly.

Just listed is a Preakness II model with a golf cart garage and extended driveway for additional parking. There are 2 master suites, a gas fireplace, upgraded kitchen cabinets with granite tops, surround sound system, screened lanai and pool. The home enjoys lake and open space views.

Here are buyer incentives as quoted from the listing agent (not me): "Buyers of this home to receive their choice of either an $8,000. credit toward a full golf membership at Plantation Bay, a $2,350. credit toward a sport membership, a $900. credit toward a fitness membership, or a $100. credit toward a clubhouse membership, provided buyers join with in 30 days of closing. Credits apply upon application approval. CDD of $990. plus O&M fee of $166. paid annually with the Flagler County property taxes." The house is 4 bedrooms/3 baths, 2,838 SF interior, 20,424 SF lot, built 2004. Asking $489,900.

Plantation Bay is a gated, golf community - one of the nicest in the Ormond Beach area. And homes are selling from $175,000! Call me for a private preview of any of these properties, a market analysis of sales, and real estate information for all Plantation Bay homes for sale.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Tax Credits Extended for Ormond Beach FL Home Buyers

Obama Signs Homebuyer Tax Credit Expansion Into LawPresident

Pres. Obama signed legislation this week to extend and expand the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit that had been set to expire at the end of the month. These tax credit changes are included in the Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act of 2009, which also extends unemployment benefits to people who have been jobless for more than one year.

The new legislation extends the deadline for the first-time homebuyer tax credit to include home purchase contracts entered into by April 30, 2010 and closed by June 30, 2010. The tax credit was also expanded to include a new $6,500 credit for owners of existing homes who are purchasing a new principal residence — if they have lived in their current residence for at least five consecutive years of the past eight years.

Homebuyers looking to take advantage of either tax credit are subject to income eligibility limits of $125,000 for individuals and $225,000 for married couples, up from the limits of $75,000 and $150,000 included in the previous law. The home purchased must cost less than $800,000 to qualify the homebuyer for the tax credit. To help guard against fraud, buyers are required to attach documentation of the home purchase to their tax return.

After signing the bill into law, President Obama said "The rebound in the housing market was one of the big factors that contributed to the growth of the economy last quarter, and brought hundreds of thousands of families into the housing market. We want to give even more families the chance to own their own home."

NAR economists estimate that the current tax credit has contributed approximately $22 billion to the general economy, and that approximately 2 million people will take advantage of the tax credit this year. “The substantial rise in home sales we’ve seen over the past few months proves that the tax credit is working and is being used by buyers who were waiting for the right opportunity to get into the market,” said NAR President Charles McMillan. “This important incentive is helping to stabilize the housing market, stimulate the economy and create new jobs in communities all across our great nation. Extending and expanding the home buyer tax credit will enable even more families to take advantage of current low interest rates and affordable prices to invest in their future through homeownership.”

Let me know how I can help you find the house you can afford and take advantage of this government real estate assistance.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Ormond Beach FL Oceanfront Home

Here is a new listing in Ormond Beach on the ocean - yes, an oceanfront home for $890,000. 3 bedrooms/3 baths/1840 SF, on a large 27,000 SF lot with a sea wall.

Open your back door watch the sunrise or enjoy the beach right by your home. This bungalow has great potential, spacious rooms, and the kitchen has recently been updated. Features also include a lower level drive-in garage and a guest suite with it's own air and heat.

Appliances, fireplace, ceiling fans, 2 porches/decks, central heat and air, and a west orientation add to the desirability of this property. Imagine waking to the sound of the waves and watching the weather and surf on the blue Atlantic. This is the life everyone dreams of...at a price that is now realistic.

Contact me for a private showing, and ideas on how you can find that oceanfront home in Ormond Beach you've always wanted.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Ormond Beach under Consideration for Expansion of Daytona State College

With thousands more students crowding its main campus on International Speedway Boulevard, Daytona State College plans to begin scouting locations for another Halifax-area campus. This week, college President Kent Sharples had what he called "an epiphany" about a second, 100-acre site that can accommodate what he believes could be a doubling of the college's size in the next decade. The college Board of Trustees on Thursday told him to look into it over the next few months.

Trustee Mary Bennett, who serves on the trustees' Visioning Committee, said one possibility is approaching Volusia County schools about selling the college the 100-acre plot where the Advanced Technology College sits near the intersection of Williamson and LPGA boulevards. The school district paid $2 million for that land before the center's opening in 2001.
But other possibilities also exist.

Bennett said other sites on Williamson and Clyde Morris boulevards in Daytona Beach might be available, while Sharples said he wouldn't rule out looking at sites in Ormond Beach and Port Orange.

Surging enrollment is driving the college's big visions. This week, Daytona State counted almost 17,000 college students at Daytona Beach and five branches. The figure represents about a 40-percent jump from five years ago. Another 6,000 students are in adult education programs at the main campus.

Come join our vibrant lifestyle and enjoy our weather and beaches. Request a free relocation package, and contact me for real estate information on Ormond Beach.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com

Golf Course Living in Ormond Beach

Live on the 6th Fairway of Halifax Plantation in Ormond Beach in this beautiful setting. This home has it all! 12' ceilings, 8' fluted doorways, rounded corners, arches, plantation shutters, crown moulding, decorative tile backsplashes, upgraded cabinets, intercom & security systems, Surround Sound inside & on lanai, built-ins in all closets, his/her closets in master, jacuzzi tub plus shower, 2 sinks with corian counters and built-in wine rack in kitchen - wow. I could go on...the lanai has a beautiful pool with hot tub and summer kitchen, 2 skylights & a ceiling fan in covered portion, and a fantastic view of the golf course through the secluded treed lot.

Details: 4 bedrooms/3 baths, 3003 SF interior, 2-car garage with workshop, central AC and heat, water softener, and all appliances. Built 2000. Asking just $599,000 for this golf course home in Halifax Plantation of Ormond Beach, FL.

Halifax Plantation has really taken shape as a master planned community. The clubhouse, with its restaurant, lounge, pro shop, meeting rooms and banquet facilities, is indeed the heartbeat of Halifax Plantation. Surrounding the 25,000 square foot clubhouse is an amazing array of professional golf practice facilities that include: driving range, putting green, chipping green with sand trap, cart barn, club storage and locker rooms. These magnificent facilities are complimented by a complete staff of friendly professionals to assist you in maintaining a fun and relaxing lifestyle.

Not to be outdone by great golf, adjacent to the clubhouse is an outstanding tennis facility with 4 clay courts, a Pro Shop, and teaching Professional on staff. Conveniently located at the same facility is a Junior Olympic swimming pool, exercise facility, and locker rooms. Besides the golf, tennis and swimming, many of the residents love to walk, jog and ride their bikes along the many miles of winding, lushly landscaped roads in Halifax Plantation. Everything you need to stay in shape and enjoy life to it's fullest is available at Halifax Plantation.

Visit the Halifax Plantation page on my web site, contact me to preview this home, or learn more about living the Golf Lifestyle in Ormond Beach.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com

Thanksgiving Day for Seniors in Ormond Beach

For the 31st consecutive year, Mary Wallis and friends will serve Thanksgiving dinner for those who are "65 years of age or older, are alone and do not wish to be on Thanksgiving Day."

The event will be held at 3 p.m. Nov. 26 at Prince of Peace Social Hall, behind the church at 600 S. Nova Road, Ormond Beach. As there is no reserved seating, guests may arrive as early as 11 a.m. to enjoy coffee and baked goods.

A traditional menu of turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, cranberries and rolls will be served. Chef Dennis Herman will supervise food preparation, and many of Wallis' longtime volunteers will return, including "official pie cutter" Margaret Crumley and "chief carver" Dr. Jim Cullers, both of whom have been joining the festivities for the past 25 years.

To make a reservation to attend, call Wallis between 9 a.m. and noon or 2 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 386-673-0117 before Nov. 21. Transportation can be arranged for those who have no way to get to the dinner. This is not a church function, so Wallis asks that guests do not contact the church. Mary probably could use donations to help with food costs.

It's the time of year to think of others with extra care. Perhaps a Senior you know will want a ride to the dinner, or just enjoy some company on Thanksgiving. Let's do our part to help everyone we know have something to be thankful for this year.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

(resource: NewsJournal)

Ormond Beach Senior Games Happening Now

The Ormond Beach Senior Games, a regional Olympics of sorts offering a variety of events, started Saturday, Oct. 24, and end Nov. 1. Winners qualify for the state games in December.

Most contestants started training as the years went by, and were not great athletes when younger. They train as a way to stay fit, active, and healthy as they pass the milestone of 50 years of age.

The 27 scheduled sports and activities are as diverse as the participants. There are the physically demanding -- 5K run, beach volleyball, tennis, racquetball, cycling -- and the less taxing -- billiards, croquet, shuffleboard, spelling, trivia, darts.

More than 250 competitors are expected, starting with today's 5K run and ending with bowling Nov. 1 at the Ormond Lanes. Last year, participants hailed from 53 Florida cities, four states and Canada. "I'd say 30 percent of the participants are from outside the area," said Mike Demchak, who oversees community events like the games for the city. "But the majority are from Volusia and Flagler."

For event details visit Ormond Beach Events. To learn more about the Senior Games, visit NSGA.com and the Florida Senior Games page.

If you come to watch an event or support one of the athletes, be sure and give me a call to talk about our great Ormond Beach lifestyle. I can help you with relocation questions and plans.

SherryArmstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Oceanfront Homes for Sale by Ormond Beach FL

I just blogged on the Sept. real estate activity here in Ormond Beach - sales are up but prices went down again. They are at the lowest levels in a generation, since the 1970's, according to the National Assn. of Realtors. If I could invest, it would be in oceanfront properties, and 2nd on the list would be riverfront/intracoastal homes for sale. The prices are unbelievable.


Here are 2 oceanfront homes available, the first in Flagler Beach:


Direct ocean front home sitting high on the dunes. Enjoy sunsets from the spacious porch with a private walkway to the beach. 5BR/3BA, built 1973, 10,065 SF lot. What a great vacation home! The property could accommodate 20 people, with a separate in-law suite that includes kitchen, laundry room, 2 bedrooms, bath, living room, dining room. Total living area 2,850 SF. East orientation (remember those sunrises over the ocean). Listed at ONLY $750,000!

In Wilbur-by-the-Sea, this home has just been reduced from $1,500,000 to $1,195,000!


Direct Oceanfront! Perched above the sandy beach and crystal blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean with commanding views. Tastefully renovated with luxurious detail, maintaining all the Old-Florida charm and offerings of today’s high-end amenities. Gated secure Martha’s Vineyard style home, built in the 1920’s, this beachfront paradise boasts incredible views offering 4 bedrooms and 3 baths. The designer kitchen blends stainless steel Viking appliances, granite countertops, a Butler’s pantry, the unique cork floor, a center island made from Tiger-Wood found in the jungle of Africa, and opens up to a formal dining room with expansive views of the coastline. The formal living room has a fireplace and extensive wood work with intricate beam work and visual offerings you would expect of European craftsmen, original Heart-of-Pine from the 1900’s, wood in-laid ceilings, walls and floors. The entire upstairs is dedicated to the master retreat. Living area 3,366 SF, lot 16,000 SF. ONLY $1,195,000!

What incredible bargains are available now - and these are only 2 of the many oceanfront (not just oceanview) homes available at stunning prices. I can set up a search for homes for sale for you or visit the search page on my web site. And contact me to preview any of the homes for sale in the Ormond Beach area.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/
http://www.daytonabeachflhome.com/

Ormond Beach Home Sales Jump in September

According to statistics from the Florida Assn. of Realtors, Florida's existing home sales rose in September, which marks more than a year (13 months) that sales activity has increased in the year-to-year comparison, according to the latest housing data released by Florida Realtors. September's statewide sales also increased over sales activity in August in both the existing home and existing condominium markets.

Existing home sales rose 34 percent last month with a total of 14,419 homes sold statewide compared to 10,778 homes sold in September 2008, according to Florida Realtors. Statewide existing home sales last month increased 4.1 percent over statewide sales activity in August.

Florida Realtors also reported a 77 percent increase in statewide sales of existing condos in September compared to the previous year's sales figure; statewide existing condo sales last month rose 8.9 percent over the total units sold in August.

All of Florida's major metropolitan areas (MSA), including Daytona Beach, reported increased existing home sales in September. In the Daytona Beach MSA, of which Ormond Beach is a statistical area, for single family, 766 realtor sales closed in September, vs. 536 a year ago. Median price was $132,000 vs $160,000 in Sept. 2008 - which just means the values and bargains are ripe for investors and buyers of all types!

In condos, 140 realtor sales closed in Daytona in September, vs 74 last year. Median price was $176,900 vs $237,500 last year. Imagine an oceanfront condo at this price!

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun said, "Now that the market is showing some momentum, we have an opportunity to achieve a more rapid and broader stabilization in home prices...The outlook for home sales and prices depends on whether the tax credit is extended," he continued, describing it as "the best tool in our arsenal to encourage financially qualified buyers to stimulate the economy and help reduce the budget deficit."

You have the best buying opportunity in a generation right now! Contact me to preview some properties - I know the Ormond Beach real estate market, and can help with all the details of your relocation.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Hunter's Ridge - Ormond Beach FL - our Community

Hunters Ridge is about a mile past Breakaway Trails in Ormond Beach, Florida, on Highway 40, making it convenient to I-95 (Exit 268) and shopping. The non-gated community offers a wide selection of lot sizes and homes, ranging from traditional two-story to Florida contemporary design, with a few low-country and other architectural styles represented.

Community amenities include a clubhouse, play areas, tennis courts, pool, playground, ballfields, park, lake with fountain, gazebo, trails, and an on-site storage yard for boats and RV’s (one of the few communities to provide this benefit). Hunter's Ridge is one of the more attractive planned developments in the Northeast-central Florida region, that has maintained wooded areas, conservation lots, and nature preserves. HOA fees are approximately $70/month.

Hunters Ridge is fairly well built out at this point, though there is room for expansion of the community onto several thousand acres to the north in Flagler County. That has been under discussion for several years, but lots in this new area are not available yet.

The closest golf course is River Bend, minutes north of Daytona Beach, an 18-hole public facility on 300 acres of woodlands along the Tomoka River. It is a 6,821 yard, par 72 course. River Bend offers the finest practice facilities in the state, from the dual ended driving range, to the practice greens and fairway bunker. During a round of golf at River Bend you'll discover that preservation of the environment is a priority. From their Southern Colonial Club House, to the 18th hole, the significant wetlands have been protected. Even their Logo - Florida's Gentle Giants - is a statement of the commitment to nature.

Use the widget below to search homes for sale in Hunter's Ridge of Ormond Beach, FL, and contact me for more information about any of the properties, or Ormond communities.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Ormond Beach FL - SOLD! - Hunter's Ridge

Lovely home designed for entertaining with formal living and dining rooms, spacious open kitchen w/convection oven and range, microwave, the gourmet's delight! High ceilings throughout, imported tile, newer carpet, hardwood, large family room, split bedrooms. Covered patio, inground, solar heated pool and hot tub. Lovely neighborhood offers clubhouse, community pool, and tennis court in a pleasant natural environment.

Directions: West on Granada past I95 to Hunters Ridge R on Shadow Crossings, L on Hunters Ridge,R on Cambridge

Contact Sherry Armstrong, Realtor, for a private viewing: 386-679-3191.

Ormond Beach Homebuyers have Negotiating Power

Home buyers in much of the U.S. are still paying thousands of dollars below the home’s asking price. Buyers paid a median $6,525, or 3% less than the last listing price on homes bought in August, down from $7,018, or 3.3%, less for homes bought in July, according to Zillow.com.

Negotiating power peaked in January 2009, when buyers were paying 4.5% less than last listing price, a median of $10,096. Meanwhile, sellers continue to cut prices on unsold homes. The median U.S. price reduction was 6.6% off the original listing price.

Florida home buyers again in August had the most negotiating power, with buyers in the Vero Beach metropolitan statistical area (MSA) paying 8.9%, or a median $20,974, less than the last listing price. Buyers in the Naples MSA paid 8% less than list price. The Naples, Daytona Beach/Ormond Beach, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Ocala, Lakeland, Punta Gorda, Melbourne, Gainesville, Tampa, Jacksonville and Fort Myers MSAs also ranked, in that order, as the top markets for negotiation.

“Negotiating power is a clear reflection of inventory levels, which dropped nationally in August. Tighter supply in some markets is translating into less of a discount off listing price,” said Zillow Chief Economist Dr. Stan Humphries. “Unfortunately, the brisk spring and summer home shopping season is drawing to a close now, and with foreclosures on the rise again, inventory levels will likely head back up in the coming months, leading buyers’ negotiating power to regain the ground it lost in August.”

It's still a Strong Buyer's Market here in Ormond Beach. I can't emphasize enough that this is the opportunity of a generation to buy real estate at bargain basement prices. Contact me to discuss your opportunities.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

(resource: RisMedia)

Ormond Beach FL Farmer's Market

The Ormond Beach Farmer's Market has started at Rockefeller Gardens, 8 AM - 1 PM, every Thursday, on 25 Riverside Drive. You'll find everything from soy candles and fresh fruit to African baskets, crab cakes and more. They will have locally grown fresh produce, fish, baked goods and agricultural products from a select group of farmers and vendors

Corporate sponsors include Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center, Daytona Beach News-Journal, Bright House, and the Highlander Corp. Participating vendors include Salsa King, Eco Outdoors, Lucy's Dogs and Sausage, Local Farms 2U, Holly's Orchids, Spring Valley Farms, Sublime Scents, Natures Garden, Gene's Steak House, Sweet Cheyenn's Treats, Bolga Baskets and other companies. See the list of vendors at the OBFarmersMarket web site.

In addition to the vendors, Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center will offer low cost medical screenings.

For more information, call 386-451-2138. Directions:

From I-95:
Head East on Granada Blvd. Turn Right on Riverside Dr. Parking is located behind The Casements
From A1A:
Head West on Granada Blvd. Turn Left on Riverside Dr. Parking is located behind The Casements

Our new Ormond Beach Farmer's Market was a huge success it's opening day, Sept. 24. Come join us and support our local businesses. If you decide you want to be a part of our Ormond Beach Lifestyle, even as a vacationer with a 2nd home, contact me for a free copy of my Relocation Package for Ormond Beach.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Oceanfront Home for Sale in Ormond Beach FL

Imagine yourself watching the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean from one of the decks on this direct oceanfront home in Ormond Beach, FL. The home sits high on a dune, on a large lot with plenty of room for expansion. There are great views from every window. Owner will finance with $200K down.

Details: 4 bedrooms/2 baths
Interior area: 2,183 SF
Lot: 16,800 SF
Garage
Built of concrete block and stucco
South orientation
Appliances included
Furnished
Ceiling Fans
Irrigation well
Bank-owned property
Listed at $1,500,000

I am a Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) and have extensive experience with bank-owned homes. Contact me today for a market analysis of this home and price, and to see what other oceanfront homes in Ormond Beach are available.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Ormond Beach FL River Walk - can it become a Reality?

Imagine a river walk in the city, complete with a restaurant and day-time marina on the Halifax. The city has come up with two preliminary site plans for Bailey Park to determine whether enough community support exists before spending money on a feasibility study.

"The concept has existed for years, first as a promenade along the shoreline," said Ric Goss, the city's planning director. "Over the years, it morphed and morphed" into many concepts. But he said the idea was included in the city's redevelopment plan in 2007, and in March commissioners directed his staff to develop a few possible options. Two were presented during the Sept. 14 commission meeting.

One calls for a low-impact, 10,000-square-foot "mom and pop" type restaurant complete with 36 parking spaces. The second is more involved, requiring more parking and the historic Pilgrim's Rest Church to be relocated a second time. It originally stood at the Pilgrim's Rest cemetery and was moved to the park when Granada Boulevard was widened many years ago.

Commissioners consider a river walk as a potential economic magnet to draw additional people downtown. "I think it would be outstanding," Mayor Fred Costello said. "But I'd hope it was a local person, rather than a chain" that built the restaurant.

Commissioner Ed Kelley added: " It would create a vibrancy within downtown."

Currently, Ormond Beach has no restaurants or public marina on the river. The city has $75,000 allocated in the 2009-10 budget for a feasibility study -- money collected from a special taxing district that's earmarked for community improvements.

Ormond Beach Florida is a progressive, forward-looking city. Come join our lifestyle. Contact me for a free Relocation Package.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

(resource: News-Journal)

More on Plantation Bay in Ormond Beach, FL - Short Sale Opportunity

The price on this Plantation Bay home, in Ormond Beach, FL, was just reduced to $285,000. Featuring 3 bedrooms/ 2 baths, 2182 SF, with a 17 X 9 screened porch, on approximately a 12,000 SF lot, the lake of the Plantation Bay Golf Course can be seen from almost every room.

This is the Aruba model with high ceilings, formal dining room, great room, breakfast bar, and garage. The master suite has French doors leading to the screened porch (think of relaxing in the Florida mornings with a view of the lake and golf course.)

3rd party lender approval is required so this is a short sale. I am a Certified Distressed Property Expert, who has completed special training to guide you, as Buyer, through making a successful offer and closing on a short sale or bank-owned property. Contact me for a private preview of this home, and others in Plantation Bay.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor

386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Ormond Beach FL Offers the New Homes Preferred by Baby Boomers

The results of 55+ Housing: Builders, Buyers, and Beyond, a survey conducted by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the MetLife Mature Market Institute, which asked owners and renters about their current homes and the types of homes, communities and features they prefer as they age, have just been released.

Ormond Beach is still a central Florida community where you can purchase a new home in a planned development. If you are a baby boomer, or close to, you should be able to find what you want here in Ormond Beach. Here are some findings of the study:

1. 55+ Americans would prefer suburban living in single-story homes with amenities, particularly high-speed Internet access
2. They don't consider "universal" design a priority
3. Consumers indicate they want amenities such as non-slip floors, larger medicine cabinets, lower kitchen cabinets and emergency call buttons
4. Consumers clearly want to be close to community resources like shopping and medical services

As reported by RealEstateChannel, other survey results were:

• 
  One-third of consumer respondents would choose a close-in suburb and nearly another third prefer an outlying suburb. About one-quarter would choose a rural community and 9% prefer a center-city setting. Single-story homes are a clear first choice among respondents (79%) over two-story (15%) or split-levels (6%).
• While conventional wisdom dictates that older buyers would be looking to downsize, most consumers say they'd like their next home to be the same size as their current one.
  The five features rated most important by consumers were: in-home washers and dryers, storage space, windows that open easily, main level master bedrooms and easy-to-use climate controls.
• Eighty-three percent of consumer respondents rated high-speed Internet as somewhat to very important.
• While consumers expressed a preference for maintenance-free lifestyles, with services such as interior and exterior home repair, transportation, housecleaning, etc., few builders offer such services, which depart from their primary business of construction.
• Twenty-seven percent of potential buyers say they are not concerned about the impact of home building on the environment. Another 23% are concerned, but say that will not be a consideration when they make a purchase, and 37% of consumers responded that want an "environment-friendly" home, but would not pay extra for it. Only 12% said they would be willing to pay more.
• Ninety-four percent of builders report that their buyers want more energy-efficient new homes; 55% said buyers specifically want EnergyStar®-rated homes. Twenty-five percent of builders said buyers want homes with more recycled materials and less materials overall. Most builders (69%) indicated that some of their buyers are willing to pay extra for green amenities; 9% indicated that most were. The remaining 22% said none of their buyers were willing to pay extra for green amenities.

Aging-in-place will be a big issue for many boomers in the next couple of decades. While builders seem to be providing more universal design features (lever-handle/door knobs, wider doors and hallways, a full bath at the entry level), consumer preferences don't reflect an equal appreciation of such items. Sandra Timmermann, Ed.D., director of the MetLife Mature Market Institute, said of the results, "The homes consumers say they want may present difficulties for the long term as they age in place. They prefer the suburbs and the country, but these areas generally lack public transportation. Universal design is not a strong preference, but they'll need greater accessibility later on. Aside from recognizing that one-story homes will be best for their later years, customers may be somewhat unrealistic."

Our Florida lifestyle, weather, and abundance of recreational activities is perfect for the retiree or active/working Baby Boomer-Senior age group. Request my free Relocation Package for Ormond Beach, and contact me to discuss our new home developments. I'm the Relocation Specialist for Ormond Beach who can give you the details on our real estate market, and the inside story about our lifestyle (since I live here too!).

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Holly Hill Community in Ormond Beach, FL

Holly Hill sits midway between Ormond Beach, FL and Daytona Beach, a bit inland from the Halifax River and Atlantic. The city limits are entirely within the mainland, unlike Ormond and Daytona Beach, which include the barrier island (beach front) across the Halifax River. In the 2004 census, the population was 12,586. The town covers 3.79 sq miles landscaped with holly bushes, magnolias, palms, and oak trees. It is hammock land rising from 4 feet above sea level at the Halifax River bank to about 10 feet.

The city's advantages make it a highly desirable location, from an industrial as well as a residential point of view. Well paved and improved streets, a fully-automated water treatment plant in a new expandable public works complex, highly motivated police and fire protection forces, and a record of growth and progress with careful planning and strict zoning make Holly Hill a pleasant, peaceful place to live. The residents call it the "City with a Heart." There are social clubs, civic organizations, recreational programs, a modern library, and more than a dozen parks.

There's a great history of Holly Hill in Wikipedia. I pick it up here, "A big event in the lives of the settlers was when the first train came through from Jacksonville to Daytona in 1887, eleven years after the Wetherell's arrival. Nothing like the trains of today, but an important welcome link connecting Daytona area with the outside world.

"In the early 1880s, as other settlers arrived Holly Hill's name began to gain in popularity. The settlement now had a church, school, post office, general store, sawmill and many homes. The slowly developing village had a population of about fifty, which did not significantly increase in the next several years."

And from the Volusia County site, "Holly Hill was so named by William Flemming in 1877 when he built a home on the 4000 acres he owned along the Halifax River. Situated south of Ormond Beach and north of a recent settlement called Daytona, his fellow settlers agreed and the name stuck. With the establishment of a post office, a general store and a school, the little community quietly grew to about 50 souls by the end of the century. In 1901, by a vote of 31 people, it incorporated.

"Holly Hill is an important slice of the riverside development with a blend of commercial and quiet residential areas. Holly Hill is said to be the locale of Bill McCoy's rum-running business. His pride in his product led him to putting his name on every case, and pretty soon the whole country was looking for the 'Real McCoy.'"

I have a new listing in Holly Hill, a single family attached home on 1024 Grand Hickory Circle, 2 bedrooms/2 baths, 1382 SF interior plus a large, 10 X 28 screened patio, 1-car garage, in the Great Oaks neighborhood, reduced to $115,000. Contact me for a private preview, and real estate market statistics in Holly Hill. This is a great price for a spacious home built in 2004!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

New Homes Available in Plantation Bay of Ormond Beach, FL

Plantation Bay is one of most prestigious dated golf communities in the Ormond Beach area, and is a non-age restricted development. Plantation Bay has 3 golf courses (2 18 hole and one 9 hole), tennis courts, swimming pool, restaurants, RV & boat storage, two clubhouses, and state of the art fitness center. Country club membership is optional. Here are 2 new listings which came on the market this past week.

This home is preserve frontage, 2-3 bedrooms/2.5 baths, loft, bonus room for study or formal dining room, 2,115 SF, porch and screened patio, sprinkler system. Asking $319,000.

The buyer of this home will receive their choice of either an $8,000. credit toward a full golf membership at Plantation Bay, a $2,350. credit toward a sport membership, a $900. credit toward a fitness membership,or a $100. credit toward a clubhouse membership, provided buyers join within 30 days of closing. Credits apply upon application approval.


This is a Preakness model overlooking the lake and conservation lands. 4 bedrooms/3 baths, 2,648 SF, large porch for outdoor living, 3-car garage and workshop, heated and screened pool, built 2005. Enhancements include 6 ft extension on bedroom is used an anoffice, sound system in family room and master suite, upgraded kitchen cabinets, stone counters, hurricane shutters, solar screens, and fireplace in the breakfast nook. Offered at $495,000.

If you have ever wanted to enjoy our Florida lifestyle, now is the time to buy real estate in Ormond Beach. Prices are so low, sellers are so motivated, and the government will help you with the tax credit!

Don't wait to start looking. Contact me for real estate information on Plantation Bay and to preview any of the fine homes on the market in this golf community.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Oceanfront Home in Ormond by the Sea, FL

Want to walk on the beach before breakfast and listen to the waves from your living room? Here's your chance to buy 100' of ocean frontage, including riparian rights, in Ormond by the Sea, on a large 14,000 SF lot. The home is 3 bedrooms/2.5 baths, in 1712 SF interior, with a porch and patio of 14 X 13 SF. There's a 3-car garage, the building is concrete block with stucco cover, and appliances included are range, refrigerator, washer, dryer, dishwasher, and microwave. Enjoy the fireplace on the cool winter nights, and use the ceiling fans in the summer, if the ocean breezes are slight.

Built in 1956, the home could be remodeled to your tastes to optimize the oceanfront location. The lot is large enough to imagine many uses to compliment your Ormond Beach waterfront lifestyle. Furnishings are negotiable, so you could move in and renovate at your leisure. Priced at $699,900.

Contact me for ideas on other Ormond Beach waterfront homes available in this Buyer's Market, and to help you get started before your First Time Buyer's Tax Credit runs out Nov. 30.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Ormond Beach Area Waterfront Home for Sale

Because we live where the Atlantic Ocean is so close, and the intracoastal runs right through town, and the Halifax River is also there to enjoy, and we have lakes and marinas too, waterfront properties catch my eye. Buyers seem to always be looking for a good buy on oceanfront or riverfront homes for sale.

Here's a new listing in Flagler Beach with a front deck that offers a panoramic view of the Atlantic - this is a Florida oceanfront home, complete with sea breeze, the sounds of waves, and the ever-changing weather patterns you can watch far out to sea.

The home is 3 bedrooms/2 baths, 2,202 SF interior, 11,675 SF lot, 2-car garage, 6 X 36 porch, built in 1972. Amenities include central air, central heat, east orientation (if you use Feng Shui), littoral rights, kitchen appliances included, cat-5 network wiring, storm shutters, ceiling fans, built-in entertainment center, updated kitchen and pantry.

Located just minutes from Flagler Beach pier, several shopping centers, and the Flagler Farmers Market, you can enjoy oceanfront living and be close to conveniences too. The home is listed at $599,000 and can be shown on short notice.

Flagler Beach, between Daytona/Ormond Beach and St. Augustine, is home to 5,500+ residents. It is unique on our part of the central Florida coast: a fishing village that has retained its original charm. The city is home to six miles of uncrowded beaches, many great fishing spots including the Flagler Beach Municipal Pier, restaurants with oceanfront dining, gift shops and a whole host of recreational facilities. The Intracoastal Waterway also flows through the town providing countless opportunities for boaters and fishermen.

Flagler Beach is just one of many waterfront communities central Florida offers you, where you can relax, enjoy the outdoors, and - in this market - buy a home at a great price!

Contact me for more details on this home or other waterfront properties in Ormond Beach.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-379-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Seabridge North Home in Ormond by the Sea, Ormond Beach, Reduced to $235,000

Rarely available, this Seabridge North 3 bedroom/2 bath condo overlooks the miles and miles of no-drive beach located in Ormond by the Sea. The home is an outstanding opportunity for your primary residence, as an investment (those cold winter months will be here soon), or your 2nd home-weekend getaway! Seabridge North is being updated; concrete work is in process, as is fresh paint! The unit features beautiful tile throughout, hurricane shutters, balcony, breakfast bar, ceiling fans, central A/C and heat, and an east orientation. Rentals are allowed, with 1 week minimum. Sorry, no pets.

Directions: East on Granada Blvd. left on Ocean Shore to Seabridge on left.

Contact Sherry Armstrong, 386-679-3191 for a private showing.

Oceanview Home in Ormond by the Sea, Seascape Condos, $199,900

Lovely 5th floor unit offers 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths, extensive tile in traffic areas, carpeting in bedrooms. Newer air handler, dishwasher and refrigerator. Newer furniture, this condo offers move in ready. Relax poolside or enjoy the drive free beach. Close to shopping, dining and public parks too.

Directions: FROM GRANADA BLVD EAST, LEFT ON OCEAN SHORE BLVD TO CONDO.

Contact me for a private showing.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Oceanview Condo for Sale - Ormond by the Sea - Seascape - $199,900

Lovely 5th floor unit offers 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths, extensive tile in traffic areas, carpeting in bedrooms. Newer air handler, dishwasher and refrigerator. Newer furniture, this condo offers move in ready. Relax poolside or enjoy the drive free beach. Close to shopping, dining and public parks too.

Directions: FROM GRANADA BLVD EAST, LEFT ON OCEAN SHORE BLVD TO CONDO.

Ormond Beach Real Estate Really Has Been a Good Investment Over Time

Stan Smith, a University of Central Florida finance professor, just completed an analysis of the central Florida real estate market, and concluded that, even though prices rose and fell dramatically in recent years, they appear to have settled back into historic patterns. Current home values are just about where they would have been if the real-estate bubble had never inflated and burst.

"Most homeowners are within 6 percent of where they would have been had there not been a bubble. The people who have been here since before 2005, they should not have been hurt," Smith said, though he added: "... A lot of people did buy in 2005 and 2006, and obviously they have been hurt significantly."

Volusia County Property Appraiser Morgan Gilreath has obtained results similar to Smith's. Gilreath recently plotted home prices from 1996 to the present and concluded they are not far below where they would have been without the bubble. Gilreath said his analysis was not as thorough as Smith's research at UCF, but both indicate the residential market is not likely to decline much further.

"The point that the charts are telling us is that we're close to where we think the bottom is going to be," he said. "The question is: When is it going to turn around? I have evidence that it is turning around here in Volusia."

Read more about the studies at the Orlando Sentinel.

Ormond Beach Company Offers Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Tropical Seas, Inc, based in Ormond Beach, has created a new line of Beach Buff® Reef-safe sunscreens, which has been well received since its launch. The sunscreen you are using now may block UV rays, but it probably also is harming our coral reefs. 4,000-6,000 metric tons of toxic sunscreens are estimated to wash off swimmers every year, leading to sunscreen-induced bleaching of up to 10 percent of the world’s coral reefs, according to Soapwire.

Tropical Seas wants to give you a better solution. Their sunscreens were subjected to a comprehensive series of independent laboratory tests to support and authenticate the biodegradability of the lotions. The research found that 99 percent of the material biodegraded in seawater within 60-80 days, while no evidence of toxicity to micro-organisms and other sea life was detected. The study also found that Beach Buff’s waterproof formula allows less than 3 percent of the product to come off in the water, which compares favorably to mass market brands that lose up to 29 percent of the product immediately upon entering the water.

“The products are flying off the shelves,” said Dan Knorr, CEO and president of Tropical Seas, Inc. "Our distribution partners tell us that consumers are embracing the idea that they can protect themselves while helping to save the oceans, reefs and sea life.” No other sunscreen currently on the market can substantiate the “reef safe” claim. “Our Reef Safe lotions not only biodegrade quickly, but very little gets into the oceans to begin with,” said Knorr. “These sunscreens are in keeping with our corporate commitment to environmental responsibility. We’re proud to do our part in making the oceans a little cleaner while we keep our customers safe from the dangerous effects of the sun.”

The company commits its bottom line to good causes also, donating a portion of every sale to the International Fund for Animal Welfare. No animal by-products are used in its products, and it does not perform animal testing of any kind.

Beach Buff “Reef Safe” sunscreens are now available in resort locations across the U.S. Sunbelt and throughout the Caribbean islands.

Thank you, Tropical Seas, for helping to protect our Ormond Beach resources.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

(resource: Soapwire)

Recent Sales in Halifax Plantation, Ormond Beach, FL

Here's an update on sales in Halifax Plantation, one of Ormond Beach's premier master-planned communities. (Read my earlier blog post about a house for sale in Halifax Plantation.) That pool house, by the way, just sold.

Halifax Plantation home sales in the last 3 months include:

• 1459 Hohe Lane. 3/2, 2367 SF, built 2001. List $259,000, sold $210,000, DOM 88.
• 3112 Sperrin Drive. 4/3, 2586 SF, Lakefront, built 2004. List $329,900, sold $302,500, DOM 67.
• 1409 Kinnard Circle. 3/2, 2451 SF, Lakefront, Pool, built 2006. List $375,000, sold $290,500. DOM 161.
• 1405 Enos Drive, 4/3, 2521 SF, Pool, built 2006. List $399,500, sold $340,000, DOM 490.
• 3767 Carrick Drive, 3/2, 2708 SF, Pool, built 1997. List $425,000, sold $385,000, DOM 76.
• 3927 Kiowa Lane (mentioned above), 4/4, Pool, built 2006, bank-owned. List $479,900, sold $419,900, DOM 373.

If you want more sales information about Halifax Plantation in Ormond Beach, or would like to preview any of the available homes, just let me know.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
http://www.ormndbeachflhome.com/

1459 Hohe Lane

3112 Sperrin Drive

1409 Kinnard Circle

1405 Enos Drive

3767 Carrick Drive

3927 Kiowa Lane

Marine Science Center Rescues Ormond Beach Turtles

Although the Marine Science Center is in Ponce Inlet, the residents and visitors to Ormond Beach enjoy and benefit from the facility, as do all the folks in the Daytona Beach area. Right now the Turtle Terrace is popular, because it's the turtle time of year. The Center is a turtle rehab facility and bird sanctuary, and provides education about the coastal ecosystem preservation and environmental protection needed to keep our coasts healthy.

53 sea turtles - both loggerhead and green - arrived at the turtle section of the Center between Feb. 24 - April 1, all with a mysterious disease. Comatose turtles washed ashore the coasts all along Volusia County, and Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Officers brought them to the Center.

Specimens were sent to a lab for analysis, but the results were inconclusive, so the center had to treat the turtles symptomatically instead of for a specific illness. Several turtles have completed their rehabilitation and have been reintroduced to their natural habitat, while others continue their convalescence. Many suffered from internal blockage as a result of overindulgence.

Explained in an article for AJC, "Sea turtles often follow in the wake of shrimping boats as they cull their catch, indulging in a tempting, all-you-can-eat seafood buffet. Crustaceans, like crabs, are normally easily digested, but the bycatch from a shrimping boat is a feast, far more food than the sea turtles could ever catch on their own, and they tend to overindulge. The irony is that their gluttony can lead to starvation."

Michael Brothers, Interpretive Chief for the Center, explained, "They get lethargic and bloat, which causes them to float. Because they are bloated with gas, they can no longer go to the bottom for food. It’s like having a life preserver tied to them, and they eventually wash up onshore emaciated.”

The Center is experienced in caring for sick turtles, but its bird sanctuary is well-known as well. Area residents who find a sick or injured bird can place it in a drop-off box that is available 24 hours a day, with the assurance the bird will be treated by a team of experts. The Sanctuary includes a guest viewing area, currently featuring red-tailed hawks, pelicans, egrets, and owls, and a Bird Observation Tower, which provides a panoramic view of Ponce Inlet.

If you are visiting Ormond Beach, drop by to discuss our real estate buying opportunities. If you are considering relocation to Ormond Beach, I'm enthusiastic about our lifestyle and community, so just ask for a Free Relocation Package, or visit my web site and sign up.

And by the way, while you're here, please protect and preserve our coasts, inland, river, and Atlantic.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Ormond Beach FL Celebrates Park & Rec Month

Governor Charlie Crist recently signed a proclamation recognizing July as Park and Recreation Month, and the Florida Park Service wants everyone to experience outdoor recreation at a Florida state park in July. “Florida’s state parks provide an endless opportunity for family and friends to enjoy the great outdoors and all of its benefits,” said Florida Park Service Director Mike Bullock. “During Park and Recreation Month, we encourage residents and visitors to experience the treasures of state parks in their backyard.”

State Parks in our Ormond Beach area include:

Blue Spring State Park

2100 West French Avenue

Orange City, FL 32763

386-775-3663

Bulow Creek State Park

2099 North Beach Street

Ormond Beach, FL 32174

386-676-4050

Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area at Flagler Beach

3100 South A1A

Flagler Beach, FL 32136

386-517-2086

Hontoon Island State Park

2309 River Ridge Road

Deland, FL 32720

386-736-5309

North Peninsula State Park

40 Highbridge Road

Ormond by the Sea, FL 32176

386-517-2086

Tomoka State Park

2099 North Beach Street

Ormond Beach, FL 32174

386-676-4050

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

6400 North Oceanshore Blvd.

Palm Coast, FL 32173

386-446-6780

In our state parks, you can find almost any outdoor activity you enjoy. Protect, preserve, and have fun!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
386-679-3191
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Ormond Beach Teacher Wins Presidential Award

Pine Trail Elementary School teacher Becky Pittard has won the nation's highest level of recognition for a kindergarten-through-12th-grade math teacher. Pittard has been a teacher for 20 years, and teaches 4th and 5th grade students. She won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. She also will receive $10,000 in cash and an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. for a White House awards ceremony in the fall.

The Presidential Award has been won by approximately 3,900 teachers since 1983. 87 math and science teachers won in 2008. They were recognized for their contributions to teaching and learning.

East Volusia News reports, "Pittard, 58, said teaching students and other educators is her calling. 'I just love it and because it is my passion, I spend an enormous amount of time learning how to become a better teacher,' she said.

"To engage children, she said she brings math to their world and level by using real-world situations. Children might conduct experiments and analyze data from a state park, learn division by talking about how to share items at parties, or learn fraction skills with Hershey bars. 'I'm a firm believer that you just don't be creative for the sake of being creative,' she said. 'I like to tell stories along with my math, but it's not just to engage children, it's really based on research strategies.'"

Read more about Ms. Pittard at the East Volusia News story.

Congratulations to Becky Pittard!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Ormond Beach Homeowners to Benefit from new Freddie Mac Rules

To help borrowers who have seen significant home price declines refinance their existing loans, the Obama Administration announced the availability of loan-to-value (LTV) ratios up to 125 percent for Home Affordable Refinance mortgages, including Freddie Mac's Relief Refinance Mortgage. The previous maximum LTV ratio for Relief Refinance Mortgages had been 105 percent.

As a result of this change, qualified borrowers will be able to obtain Relief Refinance Mortgages with loan amounts up to 125 percent of the current value of their property. The higher LTV ratio is expected to give homeowners - especially those in markets that have experienced sharp declines in home values - more options to refinance into mortgages with terms that better position them for long-term homeownership.

To encourage borrowers with 30-year fixed rate mortgages to consider a shorter 25-year term, Freddie Mac is providing a special price incentive to lenders. The incentive only applies to Relief Refinance Mortgages with LTV ratios between 105 percent and 125 percent. The 25-year term will result in borrowers paying less interest over the life of their loan and improving their overall equity position over time.

Freddie Mac's Relief Refinance Mortgage is available to borrowers who are current on mortgages that are owned or guaranteed by Freddie Mac. Borrowers should visit https://www.freddiemac.com/corporate/ and complete the online form to determine if Freddie Mac owns their mortgage.

Read more on the RealEstateChannel.com.

If you are an Ormond Beach homeowner struggling to make your mortgage payments, contact me to discuss your options. I am a CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Expert) and can help you avoid foreclosure.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
yourkeytothebeach@gmail.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Riverfront Pool Home in Melrose of Ormond Beach Priced at $1,250,000

Most rare opportunity of a unique riverfront home! Almost an acre of land on the intracoastal riverfront with dock and boathouse. The panoramic views from this home are truly awesome!
This 4647 sq ft home has 3 suite areas. The first suite has 2 bedrooms with a full bath and views of the river. The Master suite is on the second floor and boasts a huge bathroom with soaking tub, his and hers vanities, walk-in closet, sitting area, 21 X 10 office and a second story veranda overlooking the river. A front row seat for sunrises and full moons over the intracoastal river.

The third suite area is the detached guest house complete with bedroom, full bath, full kitchen, living area, laundry area and private entrance (800 sq ft).

Both the house and guest house share a full deep porch surrounding the pool. The main home features a formal living room, formal dining room and family room. Details include maple hardwood floors, crown molding, and 6” baseboards downstairs.

The remodeled kitchen has granite counters and raised panel cabinets, new stainless JennAir downdraft stove, and new stainless GE Profile dishwasher.

The backyard is fenced and landscaped for privacy while you enjoy the pool. An oversized 2-car garage has a large workshop area.

This home is perfect for enjoying our waterways and a boating lifestyle with guests, extended families or in-laws. Owner is a licensed Realtor.

Directions: East on Granada from US1 to Beach St. turn right exactly one mile to 546 S Beach.

For a private showing, contact Sherry Armstrong, (386) 679-3191.