Fort Lauderdale Luxury Listings Travel to Hurlingham Club, London!

In a unique opportunity to showcase Fort Lauderdale’s most luxurious homes, as Broker/Associate with Premier Estate Properties, my select listings will be traveling to England in October to be presented to elite international buyers at the prestigious Hurlingham Club in London.

While the Internet is a great way to reach international buyers, nothing is better than showcasing our desirable tropical retreats face-to-face in this rarified environment to wealthy buyers from Europe and beyond. This invitation-only private view is a celebration of luxury estates and offers guests a unique opportunity to see and buy some of the world’s most exclusive properties.

We will be joining leading real estate industry experts who will be running helpful interactive workshops and seminars over the course of this important two-day event. Of course, Nick Churton and Annette Reeve from our partnering Mayfair London office will be on hand to help.

Historic, stylish and sophisticated, the Hurlingham Club is the ultimate

backdrop for international buyers to network with the cream of international brokers and agents—perhaps over that most famous of English traditions, afternoon tea.

We believe it is our ability to expose our clients’ residences to these premium international buyers that sets us apart from other brokers. We believe this event is important because London as an international hub has a strong influence into Europe, the Middle East, the Far East and Russia. Hurlingham Club has a reach far beyond London and the rest of the UK.

In previous years, this event has attracted over 3000 buyers during the two days. As the event is invitation-only, only the most serious buyers will attend. I will be contacting my sellers to discuss how their homes could be showcased at Hurlingham Club, which offers a relaxed atmosphere to introduce their properties to some of the world’s most serious buyers who are often difficult to reach. I will keep you posted on how the event progresses!

If you have any questions regarding this event, please do not hesitate to contact me. Julie@premierestateproperties.com or directly: 954-328-3665.

Real Estate Value: Owning Luxury Properties for Vacation Rentals

I’m excited to share that I am seeing an increase in demand from buyers seeking properties that are suitable for use as vacation rentals. As luxury real estate becomes perceived as ‘a safety deposit box’ in these times of economic uncertainty, buying a property that provides an income stream from vacation and seasonal rentals is becoming an increasingly popular choice both for U.S. and foreign investors alike.

Fort Lauderdale offers some great opportunities for luxury vacation rentals. Amazing homes line the waterways that have earned the city the reputation as The Venice of America. Prices range from $1 million upwards with vacation rentals subject to the time of stay and season. Most popular times to rent are from September to May during the winter when the sun still shines while other states and countries are experiencing colder temperatures.

Fort Lauderdale and Lauderdale-By-The-Sea also offer great opportunities for vacation rentals as the beaches are beautiful, clean and mostly un-crowded.

Exciting Fort Lauderdale Beach is changing constantly and offers luxury hotels such as the Ritz Carlton and the W. Since the Spring Break stigma has left the city, our sugar white beaches are now enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

 

Vacation rentals can be managed by local companies or even at a distance through websites such as Vacation Rentals By Owner for those owners who wish to be involved in the process.

Purchasing a property for use as a vacation rental is a great option for bridging the years between acquisition and retirement. It is also a popular option for part time residents to at least cover property taxes and other ownership costs.

In selecting a property most desirable for vacation rentals, consider a location on the waterfront or close to the beach. Also, choosing a property with as many bedrooms as possible accommodates larger parties. 

Fort Lauderdale is becoming an increasingly popular resort destination due to the easy access to local and international airports. An approximate drive time of 30 minutes from Miami also factors in making the tropical, cosmopolitan

city of Fort Lauderdale the perfect vacation spot.

For more information on suitable properties please contact www.luxuryrealestateftl.com or call me directly: Julie Jones-Bernard at 954-328-3665.

SOUTH FLORIDA’S PROBLEM LOANS ARE RECEDING

I clearly remember past months of talking with buyers who felt that South Florida was the leading state in property foreclosures and short sales.

The reality is that latest Florida government statistics report that the Sunshine State had the highest foreclosure rate in the US in July, but the stream is narrowing. In sixteen years of working Fort Lauderdale’s luxury market, I was involved in two short sales and actively encouraged my clientele to seek out properties that represented a good market value, which meant finding residences that had been purchased prior to the height of the market in 2006 and that did not present a financial nightmare or deferred maintenance.

The good news is that thanks to an increasing demand from foreign investors and renewing interest from US buyers, Fort Lauderdale real estate is experiencing a revival. In terms, this is improving conditions for the many banks in Florida. Florida is the fourth-largest retail banking market in the US and 40% of these funds are in south Florida, a popular market for international institutions and investors. (South Florida Trends/Banking/Money Issue). An overall improving economy helps banks to sell property at more favorable prices.

In terms of loans to real estate buyers, credit quality is still key but I am seeing a steady return from lenders ready to work with my affluent customers and foreign investors.

For more information on Fort Lauderdale’s luxury real estate market please visit www.luxuryrealestateftl.com or contact me directly. Julie Jones-Bernard at 954-328-3665.

Sand and Sun for Thanksgiving 2013!

How would you like to create some great Thanksgiving memories on the beautiful beaches of Fort Lauderdale?

As temperatures start to drop across the U.S. and overseas it might be worth taking a look at the great oceanfront opportunities offered by Julie Jones and Associates with Premier Estate Properties in Fort Lauderdale. Owning a tropical property is a great way to keep the sunshine in your life when the colder weather arrives.

Here are some wonderful waterfront opportunities:

• Mid century bungalow across the street from a private surf club $1,270,000.

This lovely property is located in a gated community and surrounded by multi-million dollar properties.  It also has the benefit of a dock in Harbor Beach’s private marina.

 

 

• Contemporary penthouse in Fort Lauderdale’s  Las Olas Beach Club  $3,795,000.

Located in one of Fort Lauderdale’s newer and most prestigious condominium communities!  Enjoy Five Star resort style amenities in this great building.  Over 4,000 square feet of luxury accommodations and over 1,800 square feet of private terrace to take in the sun and entertain. Offered totally turn key – just bring your tooth brush!

• Modern Inspiration on Fort Lauderdale Beach $4,695,000.

OFFERED BELOW REPLACEMENT VALUE!    This is the best value directly on the sand on the Malibu Beach of Fort Lauderdale.

This property is also available furnished and offers excellent vacation rental potential.  Amazing resort style pool house with summer kitchen and cabana bathroom.  Perfect for entertaining family or friends.

• The Ultimate Contemporary Beach House on Fort Lauderdale Beach $7,995,000.

This custom residence is the newest offering directly on the sand!  Built by one of South Florida’s finest custom builders this residence has the latest in design, finishes and custom technology.  There are too many amazing features to list so contact me for more information on this privately and exclusively offered residence.

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing vacation resort destination with close proximity to major international and private airports.  You can be on the beach within 30 minutes of collecting your luggage! Fort Lauderdale is also perfect for visiting Miami or West Palm Beach. Contact me and my team if you would like more information on the tax advantages to living in the sunshine.

Julie Jones and Associates are ready to help you find the perfect ocean front retreat for this winter.  Further information on these properties is available on www.luxuryrealestateftl.com or call me directly. Julie Jones-Bernard at 954-328-3665.

DOCK YOUR BOAT AND PLAY GOLF OR TENNIS WITHIN STEPS FROM YOUR FRONT DOOR!

Attention boaters and avid golfers! Here is a unique opportunity to indulge in your favorite hobbies without even getting into the car!

2810 NE 37^th Court is a Florida ranch residence and one of the lowest priced deep water homes in Fort Lauderdale. Offered at $1,145,000 this delightful property features a super open floor plan with flowing formal and family room, dining area and four bedrooms. Cheerful and bright with impact glass windows throughout.

 For the investor this is a great opportunity – with some updates the property would be worth between $1.5 and $2 million. The residence is surrounded by multi million dollar newer residences and is located on one of the nicest and most valuable Coral Ridge Country Club isles.

Coral Ridge Country Club is at the end of the street and amenities include an 18-hole, Robert Trent Jones Sr. classically designed golf course.  Eleven, first class tennis courts, two of the courts are all weather, 9 are clay, including 3 hydro courts, a junior Olympic size swimming pool.

This property also has excellent potential as a vacation rental.  The bedrooms are all generous in size with the water facing master suite separate from the other three bedrooms.

For the boater this residence is a great option. With 100 feet of water frontage and no fixed bridges you sail straight into the Intracoastal Waterway. This particular canal is also wider than the average Coral Ridge Country Club waterway.  Values in this prestigious community range from this residence up to $15 million.

Coral Ridge Country Club is highly sought after by professionals and families because of the exceptional local schools and easy proximity to major highways. Fort Lauderdale has excellent access to local and international airports. You can be poolside enjoying the Florida sunshine within approximately 30 minutes from Miami.

For more information please visit www.luxuryrealestateftl.com or contact me directly at 954-328-3665.

JULIE JONES CONTRIBUTES AS EXPERT AUTHOR FOR FORT LAUDERDALE REAL ESTATE BOOK

I have exciting news about the Local Einsteins Books: What To Know Before Buying Or Selling A Home which is considered the definitive resource for buyers and sellers to obtain “insider information” from multiple expert sources in preparation to making a big financial decision.

As Broker Associate with the Premier Estate Properties Las Olas office, I will be the contributing author for the Las Olas Isles and Harbor Beach chapter of What To Know Before Buying Or Selling A Home. This book is published both as an e-book and paperback version distributed through Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Apple’s i-bookstore, as well as Baker & Taylor and Ingram (two of the largest book distributors in the US). 

The book is guaranteed to reach at least 10,000 individuals and I am donating the royalties from the book to Go Red for Women, The Greater Miami-Fort Lauderdale American Heart Association fighting heart disease in Women. I am thrilled to use my expertise to help support a worthy cause. 

For more information please do not hesitate to contact me, Julie Jones-Bernard at 954-328-3665 or visit www.luxuryrealestaeftl.com.

Tropical Lifestyles: Fun, Rare and Unique Architecture on Fort Lauderdale Beach

The ultimate in oceanside living.

Take a look at the amazing entertaining pavilion on the property of 2924 North Atlantic Boulevard. This is the only beach entertainment pavilion on Fort Lauderdale Beach and under the Coastal Construction building regulations such a structure would not be permitted today!

The entertainment pavilion features an entire summer kitchen with electronic shutters which open to beautiful Atlantic ocean views.  Imagine entertaining family and friends with a BBQ and serving drinks at your ocean side bar. There is even a little mosaic table in the same styling ready for al fresco dining. A professional chef’s grill and fridge complete the summer kitchen.  There is also a full bathroom, outdoor shower and storage incorporated.

The colorful mosaic tiles create an art deco style and are so cheerful that you feel as though you are constantly on vacation as you enjoy the ocean breezes and the sound of the waves on the beach.

Fort Lauderdale Beach is the Malibu of Fort Lauderdale. With only 48 residences directly on the sand this enclave is private and hidden away but within close proximity to all of the beach action, Las Olas and downtown Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy easy access to international and private airports with approximate drive time to Miami of 30 minutes.

This residence at 2924 North Atlantic Boulevard is an amazing offering – priced for $4,695,000 it is actually below replacement value. The land alone is worth in excess of $2.5 million and the price to build a replacement residence of solid concrete construction would be in excess of $500 per square foot. Only top quality materials are used for coastal construction. Plus planning and permitting for Fort Lauderdale Beach is a very lengthy process taking almost two years.

2924 North Atlantic Boulevard is perfect for luxury ocean front living. Expansive balconies compliment the modern design, there are two bedrooms and a media room on the beach level, the kitchen, bedroom suite/office and living room together with an open gourmet kitchen grace the main level with the master and private balcony on the third floor.  Built in 2001 by a top Fort Lauderdale builder the residence is built to the latest standards and includes impact glass.

 With this property you can close in a week and escape the winter!

For more information please visit www.luxuryrealestateftl.com or contact Julie Jones at 954-328-3665.

HISTORIC FORT LAUDERDALE RESIDENCE OFFERS TWICE THE DOCKAGE!

I am happy to present my latest offering located in Idlewyld, one of Fort Lauderdale’s most desirable and prestigious communities. This historic gem is a rare and valuable find!

Many beautiful features compliment this property. Walled and gated for privacy, this corner residence is across the street from a pier style dock which offers the luxury of double dockage. The new owners can dock two boats side by side on either side of the dock. The current owner docked two, fifty foot vessels at this location. Located on a wide lake, it is a protected waterway that will accommodate larger vessels on Sunset Lake.

Dating back to 1933 this authentic historic residence has been beautifully and luxuriously updated. The floor plan is excellent for family enjoyment or entertaining with gracious formal living room and dining room. An enclosed sunroom has a vaulted ceiling and creates a wonderful breakfast and reading area. After enjoying the formal living room, step onto the delightful poolside loggia offering a super indoor/outdoor living option with wet bar, ice maker and beverage fridge. The galley kitchen would delight any gourmet chef with rich cherry wood cabinetry, ample granite counters, double ovens, full size wine storage and adjacent menu planning area.

This four bedroom residence has a two bedroom wing downstairs. Upstairs includes the master and second bedroom suite.  A private sun deck upstairs provides a great escape to watch the sunset over picturesque and serene Sunset Lake. The pool area is also a strong feature with an oversized pool and private resort style setting. Modern day luxury amenities include impact glass and a generator.

Idlewyld has a security gate entry and enjoys close proximity to the beach, shopping and dining of Las Olas. Over the years, Idlewyld has boasted some of the highest price per square foot residential sales. Running alongside the beautiful Intracoastal waterway, Idlewyld has the ambiance of a small village with many picturesque historic residences. Land sales in this community have been as high as $4 million. Dry lot residences sell in excess of $600,000 and waterfront offerings are in the $1 million range.

Please visit www.luxuryrealestateftl.com for more information or contact me directly at 954-328-3665.

SEPTEMBER 2013 – REAL ESTATE BUYER ALERT

Hello! I hope that you are enjoying the summer months.

It is my pleasure to keep you updated on some of the trends that are influencing the luxury market here in Fort Lauderdale.

•  Julie Jones and Associates are gearing up for the main South Florida sales season.  As the market improves the stale inventory is being absorbed and making way for exciting new offerings.

2501 Hibiscus $1,795,000  

2301 Aqua Vista $12,900,000

• Vacation rental performance in Fort Lauderdale remains strong – HomeAway Inc., an online marketing service for vacation rentals reported strong performance during this summer season. Average occupancy was at 77% with 23% of owners increasing their rates this year. With a nation wide average of $254 per night about half of the owners who have a mortgage on their vacation property were able to cover at least half of the payment.  Julie Jones & Associates offers inventory perfect for vacation rentals. Here are five:

601 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd #1501   $1,145,000

817 Ponce de Leon Drive – $1,275,000

1501 South Ocean Drive – $1,275,000

801 Solar Isle – $1,395,000

65 Isla Bahia Drive – $2,995,000

• The New Global Currency – luxury real estate is earning the reputation as the new global currency (Daily Business Review).  More than half of the real estate purchases since 2012 were cash purchases as opposed to 10% in 2005.  Some investors see their real estate purchase as an expensive safety deposit box! Fort Lauderdale is certainly on the radar for those looking to invest in a luxury lifestyle in the sun.

2701 Sea Island Drive $3,195,000

701 North Rio Vista Boulevard $2,995,000  – offers 131 feet of deepwater dockage and a separate guest house.

• Sales in the $1M plus range jumped 25% from 2012.  This interest is generating more demand for water and oceanfront residences.  By working with a dedicated Buyer Specialist you can be sure that you will be one of the first to hear about new offerings.

 

2810 NE 37^th Court – $1,145,000 – currently the least expensive offering with 100 feet of waterfront in Coral Ridge Country Club

• Wells Fargo and JP Morgan have offered some of our buyers interesting financing options – please contact me for an introduction to the local finance experts here in Fort Lauderdale.  Zero closing costs and more limited documentation are making these plans especially attractive.

I am noticing that some of the buyers that I have worked with are returning to Fort Lauderdale and are ready to make their purchase. If your criteria has changed or you would like me to research a particular property type for you then please let me know.  As a dedicated Buyer Specialist it would be my pleasure to help you identify your next real estate purchase.

Please let me know if you have any questions on this bulletin.

Here’s wishing you an excellent September!

 

ENTER THE MARKET WITH THE RIGHT PRICE: 3 IMPORTANT TIPS

One of the fastest ways to insure a quick sale of your residence is to be aware of current market conditions. Here are three important tips to ensure your place in the real estate market.

THREE IMPORTANT TIPS TO ENTER THE MARKET WITH THE RIGHT LIST PRICE

• When planning the sale of your property, it is worth considering a formal appraisal of your residence with a reputable appraiser who has wide knowledge and experience of the luxury market.  Your list price can then be set with a realistic margin and subject to comparable inventory at the time of coming to the market.  As market conditions improve in Fort Lauderdale and inventory continues to shrink the timing is more favorable to list. This will take all of the guess work out of the pricing process and ensure that you do not leave any money on the table and that your buyer can secure financing!

• Interview at least three local real estate professionals. Take time to discuss the pricing very carefully prior to listing. The multiple listing history for your property will show any previous listing history and price changes. The Internet has made business very transparent today and buyers research all of the information on the property.

• Ensure that your real estate broker of choice is experienced in your community and has a proven and consistent sales record in the price range of your property. Also request a written sales and marketing plan prepared for the duration of your listing identifying all advertising and direct mail to be undertaken on your behalf. It is also important that you have confidence in your representation, as it is truly a team effort from listing to sales contract!