http://www.classifiedflyerads.comClassifiedFlyerAds.com Feedhttp://www.classifiedflyerads.com/images/headerlogo.gifhttp://www.classifiedflyerads.comThis is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    MUSIC   MUSICIANS OF THE ORLANDO PHILARMONIC ORCHESTRA             What:             benefit concert for Linda Van Buren             When:            August 23 – 7pm             Where:          Lowndes Shakespeare Center                                     812 E. Rollins St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $25 donation             Contact:        4077700071   SILENT RAVE             What:             bring your own music event             When:            August 23 – 7:17pm             Where:          UCF Arena                                     50  N. Gemini Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072273045   ETC   FASHION SHOW             What:             benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida             When:            August 22 – 9pm             Where:          Rix Lounge @ Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort                                     1000 W. Buena Vista Drive                                     Lake Buena Vista             Cost:              $25             Contact:        4079393806   MICHAEL WINSLOW             What:             comedy to benefit Base Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation             When:            August 22 – 8pm             Where:          Bonkerz                                     Holiday Inn                                     230 W. SR 436                                     Altamonte Springs             Cost:              $25             Contact:        4076292665   TOURNAMENT OF HOPE             What:             golf tourney to benefit medical funds for Cleo Spoon             When:            August 27th – 8:30am             Where:          Celebration Golf Club                                     701 Golf Park Drive                                     Celebration             Cost:              $75             Contact:        4075664653   ONGOING   JUSTICE  ILLUMINATED:  THE ART OF ARTHUR SZYK             When:            MTh – 9am – 4pm                                     Fri – 9am – 1pm                                     Sun – 1pm – 4pm             Where:          Holocaust Memorial Research and Education Center of CF                                     851 N. Maitland Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076280555   ORLANDO POETRY GROUP             What:             open mike             When:            first Tuesday – 7pm             Where:          The Daily Grind Coffee House & Cafe                                     807 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078394009   FIRST THURSDAYS             What:             a new art theme by local artists, live music, cash bar             When:            6 – 9pm             Where:          Orlando Museum of Art                                     2416 N. Mills Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free to OMA members; $45 individuals; $30 students             Contact:        4078964231   STORYTELLING AT LEU GARDENS             What:             for 18 months to 5 yearsold             When:            Third Monday – 10am             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072462620   THIRD THURSDAY’S             What:             art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 69pm             Where:          City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)                                     The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)                                     A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)                                     Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)             Cost:              Free             PLAN AHEAD   NIGHT OF THE NIGHTWOLF             What:             sketch comedy             When:            August 30 – 9:30pm             Where:          Stardust Video and Coffee                                     1842 E. Winter Park Road                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076233393   DISNEY ON ICE:  WORLDS OF FANTASY             When:            September 5 7             Where:          Amway Arena                                     600 W. Amelia                                     Orlando             Cost:              $15 40             Contact:        4078492020   DATE NIGHT AT THE GARDENS             What:             romantic movie outdoors; bring a dinner picnic basket,                                     blanket and a chair; concessions also available             When:            September 5 – gates open at 6pm; movie starts at 8:30             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Avenue                                     Orlando             Cost:              $7 adults; 2 schoolage children; free for garden members             Contact:        4072462620   FIREBALL ROBERTS MEMORIAL CELEBRATION             What:             car show & auction to benefit the Museum of the Apopkans             When:            September 6 – 9am6pm             Where:          NW Recreation Complex                                     3200 Jason Dwelley Pkwy                                     Apopka             Cost:              $10; children 11 & younger – free             Contact:        4077031707   HAT & MARTINIS FOR HOPE             What:             gala to benefit Kids Beating Cancer             When:            September 6 – 6pm             Where:          Rosen Plaza                                     9700 International Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              $150             Contact:        4079669700   HEADDRESS BALL             What:             gala to benefit Hope & Health of Central Florida             When:            September 6 – 6pm – 2:30am             Where:          Championsgate Golf Course                                     1440 Masters Blvd                                     Davenport             Cost:              $200             Contact:        4076452577   SIGNATURE CHEF’S GOURMET GALA & AUCTION             What:             to benefit the March of Dimes             When:            September 10 – 6pm             Where:          Portofino Bay Hotel                                     5601 Universal Blvd                                     Orlando             Cost:              $175             Contact:        4075995077       For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--August-19-2008/8713/post_details/1262/2008-08-20 15:40:48  This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   ANIME FESTIVAL ORLANDO             What:             Japanese animation convention with celebrity guests             When:            August 15 17             Where:          Wyndham Orlando Resort                                     8001 International Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              $1525 daily; 45 weekend pass; 35 ages 38             Contact:        4073512420   THEATER   DIVINE DIVAS:  A CABARET             What:             a musical revue             When:            through August 17th             Where:          Winter Park Playhouse                                     711B Orange Aven                                     Winter Park             Cost:              $32 general, 30 seniors, 24 matinees, 22 students & industry                                     professionals             Contact:        4076450145   MOVIE   POPCORN FLICKS             What:             screening of The Goonies             When:            August 14th – 8pm             Where:          Central Park                                     Park Avenue                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076290054   MOVIE UNDER THE STARS             What:             screening of The School of Rock             When:            August 15th – 8pm             Where:          Avalon Park                                     13001 Founder’s Square Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4077376510   ETC   BIRD NEST PROGRAM             What:             ages 25 w/guardian will learn about the variety of homes                                     birds create             When:            August 13 – 1011am             Where:          Audubon of Florida’s Center for Birds of Prey                                     1101 Audubon Way                                     Maitland             Cost:              $10 includes adult and child             Contact:        4076440190   FLORIDA TRAIL ASSOCIATION             What:             In Marjorie’s Wake – a PBS documentary             When:            August 14 – 6:30pm             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Avenue                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4073327790   ZOMBIE TRAILER PARK CAR WASH             What:             with music to benefit local animal rescue organizations             When:            August 16 noon             Where:          Taste                                     717 W. Smith St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Donations Accepted             Contact:        4078350646   COOKING DEMONSTRATION             What:             with Bobbie Tartaglino             When:            August 16 – 3pm             Where:          Fresh Market                                     995 N. SR 434                                     Altamonte Springs             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4077861801   GOLF TOURNAMENT             What:             for all veterans sponsored by Donald & Sandi Hodgskin &                                     local businesses             When:            August 18 – 8am2pm             Where:          Wekiva Golf Club                                     4100 Wekiva Club Court                                     Longwood             Cost:              Free to the first 288 to sign up – 18 holes, cart, food, etc.             Contact:        4074683055   ONGOING   JUSTICE  ILLUMINATED:  THE ART OF ARTHUR SZYK             When:            MTh – 9am – 4pm                                     Fri – 9am – 1pm                                     Sun – 1pm – 4pm             Where:          Holocaust Memorial Research and Education Center of CF                                     851 N. Maitland Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076280555   ORLANDO POETRY GROUP             What:             open mike             When:            first Tuesday – 7pm             Where:          The Daily Grind Coffee House & Cafe                                     807 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078394009   FIRST THURSDAYS             What:             a new art theme by local artists, live music, cash bar             When:            6 – 9pm             Where:          Orlando Museum of Art                                     2416 N. Mills Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free to OMA members; $45 individuals; $30 students             Contact:        4078964231   STORYTELLING AT LEU GARDENS             What:             for 18 months to 5 yearsold             When:            Third Monday – 10am             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072462620   THIRD THURSDAY’S             What:             art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 69pm             Where:          City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)                                     The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)                                     A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)                                     Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)             Cost:              Free             PLAN AHEAD   TOURNAMENT OF HOPE             What:             golf tourney to benefit medical funds for Cleo Spoon             When:            August 27th – 8:30am             Where:          Celebration Golf Club                                     701 Golf Park Drive                                     Celebration             Cost:              $75             Contact:        4075664653   DATE NIGHT AT THE GARDENS             What:             romantic movie outdoors; bring a dinner picnic basket,                                     blanket and a chair; concessions also available             When:            September 5 – gates open at 6pm; movie starts at 8:30             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Avenue                                     Orlando             Cost:              $7 adults; 2 schoolage children; free for garden members             Contact:        4072462620       For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--August-12-2008/8713/post_details/1228/2008-08-12 06:13:04  Apopka is located in Central Florida just Northwest of Orlando straddling both Orange County and Seminole County.  Apopka is very accessible to all areas of Central Florida due to the major roads that traverse it.  The City of Apopka is abutted by Longwood and Altamonte Springs on the east and Orlando to it's south.  Apopka is just minutes away from downtown Orlando, the Orlando International Airport and the major theme attractions.    In the early 1900's the City of Apopka was known as ‘Fern City' and today is known as the ‘Indoor Foliage Capital of the World.'  Apopka is one the fastest growing communities in Central Florida in both residential and business development.  Recreation facilities abound in Apopka, especially with having not only the Wekiva Springs State Park, but also Kelly Springs State Park.  You can swim in the cool springs, picnic, canoe down the Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run.  There are 13 miles of trails with camping areas available.  Golfing is abundantly available at many fine courses in and around the Apopka area.  There are at least six golf courses communities within easy reach .  The West Orange Trail originates in Apopka and at present is 19 miles long and will eventually be a part of the 200 mile planned regional connection known as the Central Florida Loop, where walking, bicycling and roller blading is often seen.  The City of Apopka opened Doctors' Dog Park in 2007 and is a great place to have your dog go romp and play.  The City of Apopka is utilizing approximately 33 acres at the intersection of SR 436 & US 441 and forging ahead to build a mixed development area that will include retail, office space and residential units including condominiums and apartments.  Apopka is a great place to live, work & play!   For more information on Apopka real estate and Apopka homes for sale in addition to Apopka relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Apopka Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Apopka-Seminole-County-and-Orange-County-Florida/8713/post_details/1125/2008-07-15 05:35:20  Lake Mary has been ranked by CNN as the # 1 Best Place to Live in Florida and the # 4 city in the U.S.  It is located in Central Florida abutting Longwood and Sanford in Seminole County straddling I4 (a major thoroughfare reaching from Tampa, on Florida's West Coast to Daytona Beach on its East Coast).  Lake Mary is just minutes away from downtown Orlando, the Orlando Sanford Airport, Orlando International Airport and the major theme attractions.    Lake Mary, which is an actual lake, was named for the wife of Major William Randolph. Lake Mary is geographically located between Orlando and Daytona Beach.  Shopping abounds from upscale boutiques and shopping centers to department stores.  Right next door there is the Seminole Town Center.  You will find a widerange of dining choices from fast food, as would be expected, to fine dining restaurants with some of the best in Central Florida.  Lake Mary is a very unique in its mix of commerce and residential areas.  It includes Heathrow, a gated residential golfcourse community of approximately 2000 homes started in the mid 80's by Jeno Palucci, who is well known for such brands as Chun King, Jeno's & Luigino's foods.  Next door you will find Heathrow International Parkway, an office park which includes being the home of AAA.  Lake Mary is home to the Lake Mary Heathrow Festival of the Arts which is held in the fall each year and you will find a Farmer's Market on the weekends.  Lake Mary boasts some of the best golf country clubs in the Central Florida region including Heathrow, Alaqua, Timacuan & Magnolia Plantation.  Lake Mary also has a park and recreation system in addition to a Community Center which is being joined by a 19,000 square foot Events Center.  Lake Mary is a great place to live, work & play!    For more information on Lake Mary real estate and Lake Mary homes for sale in addition to Lake Mary relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Lake Mary Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate and homes for sale, Orange County, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Lake-Mary-Seminole-County-Florida/8713/post_details/1124/2008-07-15 05:34:39  Longwood is located in Central Florida abutting Altamonte Springs in Seminole County straddling I4 (a major thoroughfare reaching from Tampa, on Florida's West Coast to Daytona Beach on its East Coast) and State Road 434.  Longwood is just minutes away from downtown Orlando, the Orlando Sanford Airport, Orlando International Airport and the major theme attractions.    Longwood is rich in history including that of its early settlers John Neill Searcy & Edward Warren Henck.  Longwood has a historic district with many structures dating to the 1800's.  There is the BradleeMcIntyre House, which was originally located in Altamonte Springs and is on the U. S. National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Longwood Hotel.  Because of Longwood's geographic location, you can enjoy a wide range of shopping available to you not only in Longwood, but also in neighboring Altamonte Springs including the Altamonte Mall, one of the larger shopping malls in Central Florida, or the new Uptown Altamonte, a mixeduse development which abuts the Altamonte Mall and Cranes Roost Park where people can live, work, play and enjoy the outdoors.  In addition to shopping in Lake Mary & Sanford with their wide range of shopping choices from discount department stores to highend boutique shops including the Seminole Town Center.  Dining choices abound in Longwood and the surrounding communities with some of the finest dining available in the Central Florida area. There are several parks located in Longwood with some having lighted baseball fields, tennis courts, basketball courts & playground equipment.  Longwood is also home to The Senator at Big Tree Park, which is the largest Bald Cypress of over 3000 years old.  Longwood is a great place to live, work & play! For more information on Longwood real estate and Longwood homes for sale in addition to Longwood relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Longwood Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate and homes for sale, Orange County, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Longwood-Seminole-County-Florida/8713/post_details/1123/2008-07-15 05:33:32  Altamonte Springs is located in the geographic heart of Central Florida in Seminole County straddling I4 (a major thoroughfare reaching from Tampa, on Florida's West Coast to Daytona Beach on its East Coast) and State Road 436.  Altamonte Springs is just minutes away from downtown Orlando, the Orlando Sanford Airport, Orlando International Airport and the major theme attractions.    The first settlers of Altamonte Springs, which is Spanish for ‘high hill,' were a group of businessmen who intended to create a tourist haven at Snow Junction, as it was then called.  It has evolved into a residential community with its strength lying in its many retail and office centers.  You can enjoy a wide range of shopping available to you in Altamonte Springs including the Altamonte Mall, one of the larger shopping malls in Central Florida, or the new Uptown Altamonte, a mixeduse development which abuts the Altamonte Mall and Cranes Roost Park where people can live, work, play and enjoy the outdoors.  There are many activities at Uptown Altamonte and Cranes Roost Park, with the Eddie Rose Amphitheater for the whole family including the Fourth of July celebration, Red, Hot & Boom which has an attendance of approximately 100,000 people.  There is almost always something going on a weekly basis including Jazz concerts and other musical attractions, Karaoke nights, comedy, and Streetmosphere, the Russian born members of CirqueMosphere, an artistic troupe of performers. The park system in Altamonte Springs offers so much including Lake Lotus Nature Park, Eastmonte Park, Westmonte Park with its outdoor Therapeutic Pool, and Merrill Park to name just a few.  Altamonte Springs is a great place to live, work & play!    For more information on Altamonte Springs real estate and Altamonte Springs homes for sale in addition to Altamonte Springs relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Altamonte Springs Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.  http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Altamonte-Springs-Seminole-County-Florida/8713/post_details/1122/2008-07-15 05:32:51  Seminole County is situated between Orlando's Central Business District, the Theme Parks and the Volusia beaches on the east coast.  The county can't be beat for accessibility to the best that Central Florida has to offer. Seminole County is one of the fastest growing counties in Florida.  It is a collection of comfortable bedroom communities with housing ranging in price from very affordable to among the most expensive in the area.  Seminole County has carefully protected its natural resources.  These include Lake Monroe and the scenic St. John's River, with its alligators and mossdraped cypress trees; Wekiva Springs State Park and the Central Florida Zoological Park, not to mention the many large lakes that dot the county.  There are parks that offer jogging trails, athletic fields, even a pet park and many miles of trails throughout the county.  For shopping there are three major indoor malls:  Altamonte Mall, Seminole Town Center and Oviedo Marketplace.  This is in addition to many other shopping areas and mixeduse developments. Seminole County is the home of the OrlandoSanford International Airport and the Amtrak Auto Train which originates in Lorton, VA.  The many cities of Seminole County include: Altamonte Springs Casselberry Lake Mary Longwood Oviedo Sanford Winter Springs   For more information on Central Florida & the Greater Orlando area including Seminole, Orange, West Volusia and South Lake Counties contact Marc Grossman @ 4074631034.  To learn more about Marc and services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI       www.OrlandoHomes4u.com        4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.  http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Seminole-County--Floridas-Natural-Choice/8713/post_details/1121/2008-07-15 05:32:01This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   SUMMER FAMILY TOURS:  QUEST OF BEAUTY – LOUIS COMFORT TIFFANY             What:             for elementary school children and their parents or guardians             When:            Tuesday’s in June and July – 45 min. tour             Where:          Morse Museum of American Art                                     445 N. Park Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076455311 x 117   INFORMED VISIONS             What:             art of Jamie Baldridge             When:            through Aug 1             Where:          Millenia Fine Art                                     555 Lake Destiny Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4073048100     THEATER   TARGET FAMILY THEATRE FESTIVAL             What:             free performances opening day celebration             When:            July 19 – 10am 2pm             Where:          Loch Haven Park                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078967365   MOVIE   HAIRSPRAY:  SINGALONG VERSION             What:             presented by Enzian Popcorn Flicks             When:            July 19 – 8:30pm             Where:          Loch Haven Park                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078967365   LA TRAVIATA             What:             screening of the La Scala opera             When:            July 20 – noon             Where:          Enzian Theater                                     1300 S. Orange Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              $20             Contact:        4076291088   ETC   MAGICAL BRIDAL SHOW             What:             exhibitors and refreshments             When:            July 20 – 14pm             Where:          Dubsdread Golf Course                                     549 W. Par St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072965882   WINE FOR WHISKERS             What:             to benefit for the SCPA of Central Florida             When:            July 24 – 6pm             Where:          Orlando Downtown Marriott 400 W. Livingston Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $40 – advance; 45 – at the door             Contact:        4072481741   ONGOING   JUSTICE  ILLUMINATED:  THE ART OF ARTHUR SZYK             When:            MTh – 9am – 4pm                                     Fri – 9am – 1pm                                     Sun – 1pm – 4pm             Where:          Holocaust Memorial Research and Education Center of CF                                     851 N. Maitland Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076280555   ORLANDO POETRY GROUP             What:             open mike             When:            first Tuesday – 7pm             Where:          The Daily Grind Coffee House & Cafe                                     807 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078394009   FIRST THURSDAYS             What:             a new art theme by local artists, live music, cash bar             When:            6 – 9pm             Where:          Orlando Museum of Art                                     2416 N. Mills Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free to OMA members; $45 individuals; $30 students             Contact:        4078964231   STORYTELLING AT LEU GARDENS             What:             for 18 months to 5 yearsold             When:            Third Monday – 10am             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072462620   THIRD THURSDAY’S             What:             art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 69pm             Where:          City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)                                     The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)                                     A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)                                     Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)             Cost:              Free             PLAN AHEAD   CRANES COMEDY             What:             Joby Saad the Village Idiot and Luke Bailey             When:            July 29 – 7pm             Where:          Cranes Roost Amphitheatre                                     Cranes Roost Blvd.                                     Altamonte Springs             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4075718863   ART FOR WISHES             What:             benefit the MakeAWish Foundation             When:            August 2 – 7pm             Where:          Orlando Repertory Theatre                                     1001 Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $75             Contact:        4076224673 x 202       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--July-15-2008/8713/post_details/1120/2008-07-15 05:31:13This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    For Fourth of July celebrations, click here Fourth of July Fireworks Celebrations in Orlando Central Florida   ART   SUMMER FAMILY TOURS:  QUEST OF BEAUTY – LOUIS COMFORT TIFFANY             What:             for elementary school children and their parents or guardians             When:            Tuesday’s in June and July – 45 min. tour             Where:          Morse Museum of American Art                                     445 N. Park Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076455311 x 117   INFORMED VISIONS             What:             art of Jamie Baldridge             When:            through Aug 1             Where:          Millenia Fine Art                                     555 Lake Destiny Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4073048100     THEATER   ASSASSINS             What:             Stephen Sondheim musical             When:            through July 6                                     7:30pm – Thurs through Sat                                     2:30pm Sunday             Where:          Mad Cow Theatre                                     105 S. Magnolia Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $28 – adults; 26 – students and seniors             Contact:        4072978788   DIE MOMMIE DIE             What:             comic melodrama by Charles Busch             When:            July 11 through Aug 2             Where:          Theatre Downtown                                     2113 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $18 adults; $15 seniors and students             Contact:        4078410083   MOVIE   THE NEVERENDING STORY             What:             outdoor screening             When:            July 10 – 8pm             Where:          Central Park                                     Park Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076290054   AUTHOR   THOMAS CAVANAGH             What:             author of the Prodigal Son             When:            July 11 – 7pm             Where:          Barnes & Noble                                     2418 E. Colonial Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078946024   ONGOING   JUSTICE  ILLUMINATED:  THE ART OF ARTHUR SZYK             When:            MTh – 9am – 4pm                                     Fri – 9am – 1pm                                     Sun – 1pm – 4pm             Where:          Holocaust Memorial Research and Education Center of CF                                     851 N. Maitland Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076280555   FIRST THURSDAYS             What:             a new art theme by local artists, live music, cash bar             When:            6 – 9pm             Where:          Orlando Museum of Art                                     2416 N. Mills Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free to OMA members; $45 individuals; $30 students             Contact:        4078964231   STORYTELLING AT LEU GARDENS             What:             for 18 months to 5 yearsold             When:            Third Monday – 10am             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072462620   THIRD THURSDAY’S             What:             art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 69pm             Where:          City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)                                     The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)                                     A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)                                     Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)             Cost:              Free             PLAN AHEAD   FILM SLAM             What:             local filmmaker showcase and competition             When:            July 13 – 1pm             Where:          Enzian Theater                                     1300 S. Orlando Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              $5             Contact:        4076291088   MAGICAL BRIDAL SHOW             What:             exhibitors and refreshments             When:            July 20 – 14pm             Where:          Dubsdread Golf Course                                     549 W. Par St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072965882   WINE FOR WHISKERS             What:             to benefit for the SCPA of Central Florida             When:            July 24 – 6pm             Where:          Orlando Downtown Marriott 400 W. Livingston Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $40 – advance; 45 – at the door             Contact:        4072481741       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--July-1-2008/8713/post_details/1040/2008-07-02 13:49:49Here’s a look at free fireworks displays in the Greater Orlando Central Florida area.  Hope everyone has a safe and fun 4th of July!    RED, HOT & BOOM             What:             outdoor concerts with Simple Plan, Kate Vonegele, etc.             When:            July 3 – 4 11pm             Where:          Cranes Roost Park                                     Altamonte Springs Drive                                     Altamonte Springs             Contact:        4075718180   FIREWORKS AT THE FOUNTAIN             What:             entertainment, food & activities for children             When:            July 4 – 4 10pm             Where:          Lake Eola Park                                     101 N. Rosalind Ave                                     Orlando             Contact:        40724631040   FLASHBACK 4TH OF JULY             What:             music by Michael Andrew and The Atomic Swing Band             When:            July 4 – 5 11pm             Where:          Celebration Town Center                                     610 Sycamore St.                                     Celebration             Contact:        4075664007   SANFORD’S FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION             What:             music by Orleans and friends             When:            July 4 – 5:30 10:30pm             Where:          Fort Mellon Park                                     East 1st St.                                     Sanford             Contact:        4073305697   HERBERT L. SHUMAN MEMORIAL POPS CONCERT             What:             music by the Brevard Symphony Orchestra             When:            July 4 – 8pm             Where:          Riverfront Park                                     603 Brevard Ave.                                     Cocoa             Contact:        3212422024   KISSIMMEE 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION             What:             music by Pocket Change & Glenn Cumming and the Session Hounds             When:            July 5 – 5 9:30pm             Where:          Lakefront Park                                     100 Lakeshore Blvd.                                     Kissimmee             Contact:        4075182501   AVALON PARK’S 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION             What:             all day event of food, rides, entertainment, contests, etc.             When:            July 4             Where:          Founders Square                                     13001 Avalon Park Blvd.                                     Orlando             Contact:        4076586565   RED, WHITE & BOOM AT DAYTONA BEACH             What:             music by Poco & Last Call             When:            July 4 – 5 10pm             Where:          Daytona Beach Bandshell                                     250 N. Atlantic Ave.                                     Daytona Beach             Contact:        3866713421   RED, WHITE & BOOM OVER NORTH BREVARD             What:             music, food, entertainment, vintage aircraft show, etc.             When:            July 4 – 5 8pm             Where:          Space Coast Regional Airport                                     660 Rico Road                                     Titusville             Contact:        4073211941 For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Fourth-of-July-Fireworks-Celebrations-in-Orlando/8713/post_details/1017/2008-06-25 14:00:17This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   SUMMER FAMILY TOURS:  QUEST OF BEAUTY – LOUIS COMFORT TIFFANY             What:             for elementary school children and their parents or guardians             When:            Tuesday’s in June and July – 45 min. tour             Where:          Morse Museum of American Art                                     445 N. Park Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076455311 x 117   INFORMED VISIONS             What:             art of Jamie Baldridge             When:            through Aug 1             Where:          Millenia Fine Art                                     555 Lake Destiny Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4073048100   THIRD THURSDAY’S             What:             art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 69pm             Where:          City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)                                     The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)                                     A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)                                     Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)             Cost:              Free             THEATER   DIE MOMMIE DIE             What:             comic melodrama by Charles Busch             When:            July 11 through Aug 2             Where:          Theatre Downtown                                     2113 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $18 adults; $15 seniors and students             Contact:        4078410083   MUSIC   TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS             What:             the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra             When:            June  28 – 8pm             Where:          OIA                                     1 Airport Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078252055   AUTHOR   THOMAS CAVANAGH             What:             author of the Prodigal Son             When:            July 11 – 7pm             Where:          Barnes & Noble                                     2418 E. Colonial Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078946024   ETC   NATIVE PLANTS             What:             landscape restoration of the Genius Reserve in Winter Park             When:            July 1 – 7pm             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076475233   ONGOING   JUSTICE ILLUMINATED:  THE ART OF ARTHUR SZYK             When:            MTh – 9am – 4pm                                     Fri – 9am – 1pm                                     Sun – 1pm – 4pm             Where:          Holocaust Memorial Research and Education Center of CF                                     851 N. Maitland Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076280555   OPEN MIKE POETRY             When:            Wednesdays – 8pm             Where:          Cup O Soul                                     906 W. Fairbanks Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076477685   PLAN AHEAD       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--June-24-2008/8713/post_details/1015/2008-06-24 14:26:26It appears that this morning, I'm in OpEd mode as I've written a piece for the Orlando Sentinel and am sharing this one in response to an oped that was played out on the CBS Sunday Morning Show yesterday, June 22, 2008. Watch the video to better understand my letter to the editor below:     http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=4200929n   Wow!! I was originally incensed by Gil Schwartz’, aka Stanly Bing’s, rebuttal of Andrew Cohen’s op ed piece. His list of ‘liars’ amazed me when he threw in Realtors® in the #1 position. How dare he!?! Yes, as with any industry, we have our black sheep. But, as a Realtor® and a member of NAR (the National Association of Realtors®), we also have a very strict and comprehensive Code of Ethics which must be followed. And is followed by the majority in this industry. It forces us to be accountable for our actions. The public relations industry does not have any such accountability. Yes, the PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) also has a Code of Ethics, but the Preamble simply states, that the “Emphasis on enforcement of the Code has been eliminated.” Yep, I see accountability here! So, how can he describe Realtors® as in the #1 group of “really big prevaricators”? And lets look at the public relations industry. Hmmm, lobbyists – oh no you won’t find any prevaricators there, will you? Mr. Schwartz was talking about ‘hacks.’ How about Spin Doctors? Oh yes, they only selectively present information to support their position. I guess since it’s only a partial truth, that is alright because they didn’t lie. Didn’t tell the whole truth either, but hey – that’s OK! As a public relations person, I think you should think more clearly before you speak, Mr Schwartz. You are representing your industry just as I, as a Realtor®, am representing mine. Marc Grossman Apopka, FL http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/In-Defense-of-Realtors/8713/post_details/1010/2008-06-23 14:32:46 I think this sums it up!  What more can one say!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Just-For-Grins-and-Giggles/8713/post_details/1009/2008-06-21 16:03:56The title sums up what I have to say on this topic.  Additionally, this is quite unusual for me to touch upon politics except when it pretty much immediately relates to real estate.  Part of my writing this article is twofold.  Firstly, because the idea itself is abhorrent to me.  And secondly, because here our government goes again selling out to big business.  Seriously now, they are the only ones that are going to profit from this.  With that said, I’m quite disturbed with the notion of our ending a 27 year moratorium on offshore drilling that was actually signed by Pres. Bush’s father and he is currently asking for congress to end.  But before we go on with this part of the tale, let’s look at the implications of Offshore Drilling. Gas prices are high and it’s affecting all of us.  Unfortunately, those with less income are affected the most.  But the fact of the matter is that gas prices are high and will remain so for a very long time.  That’s just a simple fact.  Even with Saudi Arabia stepping up their production, it will have little effect on the price of crude oil in the overall scheme of things.  For arguments sake, let’s say that we allow offshore drilling.  Actually, let’s stop for one second for a further explanation, we are not just talking about offshore drilling, but that of also drilling in the wilderness.  OK, with that said, if we were to drill, it would take 710 years before we’d see any results.  On top of that the oil that can be uncovered will most likely not have much effect on prices anyway.  Now granted, we do have a major stockpile of crude.  So much so, that at today’s consumption it would last us 2½ years.  Maybe the government should consider tapping into that as opposed to our environment?  Just a thought!  I’m not suggesting depleting all of the reserves, but…  The purpose here is not to sway anyone from one party to another.  It is not intended to be a political debate.  It seems the two prospective presidential candidates are both on opposite sides of this issue.  Sen. McCain is following in the President’s footsteps. What really bugs the bejesus (see I said a nicer word that I really would have liked to say) out of me, is that I hear the Governor of Florida, Charlie Crist, doing a complete turnaround in an apparent political pandering to Sen. McCain because he’s looking for a place on his ticket or in his cabinet.  Oh yes another, our illustrious Senator, Mel Martinez, has also supposedly changed his mind and is backing the removal of this moratorium.  But we won’t go into his background and his abysmal stay at HUD. It appears that a good part of this election will be putting the fear in people, just as we’ve seen in previous ones where they utilized socalled ‘terrorism.’  We know that a good part of that turned out to be a bunch of bunk, but by then it was too late.  I hope again that history won’t be repeating itself as it so often has.  In his Gettysburg Address, President Lincoln stated that we will have a “government of the people, by the people, for the people.”  The sad thing is that in this day and age we need to change the word ‘people’ to ‘big business’ and the saying will have a more accurate meaning.  It doesn’t matter how this drilling will affect the general population.  That’s of little or no consequence.  Is it any surprise that we’re consistently widening the wealth disparity gap in this country? Enough, let’s get back to the original premise here.  The possible harm and destruction to the environment is too great a price to pay.  We need to seek other alternatives and learn to wean ourselves off of petroleum based products.  I am more concerned about global warming and the impact of fossil fuel on our lives and environment. I have great concern that a major mistake will be made by opening up our shorelines and wilderness to the drilling for oil.  The impact to our environment and lives can be more costly than the price of fuel itself.  This is not something that should be taken lightly.  Granted, neither should what we are paying for the price of fuel, but this type of consumption has been the American Way.  Seriously, did we, as an overall society, learn a lesson from the embargos of the 70’s?  Obviously not!  We need to wake up, if we haven’t already.  The ‘Me’ society is over with.  This idea of conspicuous consumption needs to be reigned in.  What kind of legacy are we going to leave to our children?  Yes, we as a society have progressed so very much, but at what cost?  Enough already, or there won’t be any roses to smell!   http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Offshore-Oil-Drilling-–-Bring-It-On-–NOT!!!/8713/post_details/1008/2008-06-20 05:27:24This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   THIRD THURSDAY’S             What:             art in downtown Orlando at various locations from 69pm             Where:          City Arts Factory (Orange & Pine)                                     The Office Gallery (47 E. Robinson)                                     A.K.A. Lounge (68 E. Pine)                                     Gallery at Avalon Island & Guinevere’s (Magnolia & Pine)             Cost:              Free             HARRIET LAKE:  THE CLOSET             When:            through June 22             Where:          Mennello Museum of American Art                                     900 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free             Contact:        4072464278   THEATER   IT’S A GUY THING             What:             musical cabaret             When:            June 20 – 7:30pm                                           21st – 2 & 7:30pm                                           22nd – 2pm             Where:          Winter Park Playhouse                                     711 B. Orange Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              $30 eves; 22 matinees; 28 seniors; 20 students             Contact:        4076450145   JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR             What:             Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Weber musical             When:            June 20 – 8pm                                           21st – 2 & 8 pm                                           22nd – 1 & 6:30pm             Where:          Carr Performing Arts Center                                     401 W. Livingston St                                     Orlando             Cost:              $35 61             Contact:        4078492577   AUTHOR   THOMAS CAVANAGH             What:             author of the Prodigal Son             When:            July 11 – 7pm             Where:          Barnes & Noble                                     2418 E. Colonial Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078946024   ETC   GO DIEGO, GO LIVE:  THE GREAT JAGUAR RESCUE             When:            June 21 – 11am, 2 & 5pm;                                     June 22 – 2pm             Where:          UCF Arena                                     50 N. Gemini Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $14 35             Contact:        4078233070   CASINO NIGHT             What:             benefits the Alzheimers Assn, Canine Companions & the  Employee & Student Volunteer Scholarship Fund             When:            June  21 – 710pm             Where:          The Heritage at Lake Forest                                     5433 W. SR 46                                     Sanford             Cost:              $20             Contact:        4073222207   ALLISON’S TOURNAMENT OF HOPE             What:             tourn, luncheon & auction to benefit the Greater Orlando                                     Children’s Miracle Network             When:            June  21 – 7:30am             Where:          Celebration Golf Club                                     701 Golf Park Drive                                     Celebrationi             Cost:              $85             Contact:        4073464640   BABY LOVES DISCO             What:             dance party for children and parents             When:            June 22 – 2pm             Where:          Club Firestone                                     578 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $12 or Free if you can’t walk             Contact:        4078720066   ONGOING   OPEN MIKE POETRY             When:            Wednesdays – 8pm             Where:          Cup O Soul                                     906 W. Fairbanks Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076477685   PLAN AHEAD   TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS             What:             the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra             When:            June  28 – 8pm             Where:          OIA                                     1 Airport Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078252055       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--June-17-2008/8713/post_details/1007/2008-06-20 05:26:31 The following are the market sales statistics for Winter Springs, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  Winter Springs is made up of the zip code 32708.  For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. There needs to be a disclaimer here.  These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time.  Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyperlocal.  What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall.  Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door.  It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.   SingleFamily Homes 25 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $322,606 with 167 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $248,000. The most expensive home sold for $999,999 and was on the market 378 days.  It was a 5 bedroom, 4½ bath, 4car garage 5860sf conservation lot home in an equestrian community with a screen enclosed pool & spa built in 2006 on .71 acre of land, with a slate fireplace, electric gate with security cameras, painted ceiling in foyer, inlaw suite upstairs, master w/Jacuzzi, and a generator for possible outages.  The HOA is $100/year. The least expensive home sold for $126,000 after 139 days on the market.  It was a bankowned 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage 1305sf home built in 1973 on .19 acre of land with no HOA. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $293,061 with 119 days on the market.   Condos, Townhomes & Villas 3 homes sold The average sales price was $123,500 with 281 days on the market. The median sales price was $123,500. The most expensive condo sold for $164,000 and is new construction.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 1428sf townhome in a gated community with 42” cabinets, corian countertops, smooth top range, and crown moulding.  The community offers a pool and playground with a maintenance fee of $290/month. The least expensive sold for $83,000 and was on the market for 332 days.  It was a bank owned fixer upper 2 bedroom, 1½ bath 1130sf townhome built in 1989 with fenced courtyard.  The monthly maintenance fee is $203. The average sales price a year earlier was $164,267 with 97 days on the market.   For information on Winter Springs and Seminole County real estate and Winter Springs and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Winter Springs and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Winter Springs and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Winter-Springs-Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for/8713/post_details/978/2008-06-15 08:01:38 The following are the market sales statistics for Winter Park, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for May 2008.  Winter Park is made up of the zip codes of 32789 & 32792.  For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. There needs to be a disclaimer here.  These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time.  Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyperlocal.  What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall.  Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door.  It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.   SingleFamily Homes 40 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $564,626 with 140 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $276,250. The most expensive home sold for $5.8M and was on the market for 89 days.  It was a 6 bedroom, 7½ baths, lakefront home in 9040sf built in 1993 on 1.95 acres with a circular driveway and 2 garages that can house 6 cars, a boat house w/hoist and jet ski ramp, several fireplaces, aged heart of pine floors, 235’ lake frontage, verandas, etc. with no HOA. The home was listed as a 2story Louisiana French Colonial. The least expensive home sold for $124,000 after 113 days on the market.  It was a 2 bedroom, 1 bath home in 754sf built in 1950 on .14 acre with no HOA and was being sold asis.  The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $574,155 with 157 days on the market.   Condos, Townhomes & Villas 12 homes sold The average sales price was $151,443 with 136 days on the market. The median sales price was $167,495. The most expensive sold for $300,000 after being on the market for 136 days.  It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in 1304sf built in 1981 with a fireplace in an elevator building and downtown Winter Park location.  The community offers a pool and tennis courts monthly maintenance is $370. The least expensive sold for $58,250 and was on the market for 112 days.  It was a bank owned fixer upper 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo in 1036sf built in 1974.  The community offers a pool and tennis courts and a monthly maintenance is $327. The average sales price a year earlier was $195,407 with 132 days on the market.   For information on Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County real estate and Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County homes for sale in addition to Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Winter Park and Seminole and Orange County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Winter-Park-Seminole-and-Orange-Counties-FL-–-Market-Sales-Stat/8713/post_details/977/2008-06-15 08:01:02 The following are the market sales statistics for Windermere, Orange County, Florida for May 2008.  Windermere is made up of the zip code 34786.  For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. There needs to be a disclaimer here.  These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time.  Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyperlocal.  What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall.  Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door.  It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats. SingleFamily Homes 38 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $916,394 with a 179 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $693,500. The most expensive home sold for $5.05M and was on the market for 697 days.  It was a 5 bedroom, 5 full baths, 3 half baths 8481sf lakefront home on a chain of lakes with a 4+car garage, a swimming pool and spa built in 2003 on .93 acre lot in a gated golf community with a hand painted foyer ceiling, theater with concession stand, 2story master closet, etc.  The HOA $1404/quarter. The least expensive home sold for $217,000 after 120 days on the market and was a short sale.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 1694sf home with 2car garage built in 2003 on .15 acre lot with a screen enclosed pool.  The HOA is $180/quarter. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $1,021,107 with 175 days on the market.   Condos, Townhomes & Villas 8 homes sold The average sales price was $187,050 with 179 days on the market. The median sales price was $182,000. The most expensive sold for $224,000 and was new construction.  It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath, 2car garage 2074sf townhome with tile on the 1st floor, 42" cabinets, and stainless steel appliances.  This gated community offers a pool and clubhouse with a maintenance is $415/month. The least expensive sold for $160,100 after being on the market 137 days and was a short sale.  It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2car garage 1380sf endunit conservation lot townhome built in 2004 and with 2 master suites & fenced courtyard.  The community offers a swimming pool with a monthly maintenance $145. The average sales price a year earlier was $241,598 with 102 days on the market.   For information on Windermere and Orange County real estate and Windermere and Orange County homes for sale in addition to Windermere and Orange County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Windermere and Orange County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Windermere-Orange-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for-April/8713/post_details/976/2008-06-14 14:38:11  (click images to enlarge) The following are the market sales statistics for Sanford, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  Sanford is made up of the zip codes of 32773 & 32771.  For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. There needs to be a disclaimer here.  These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time.  Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyperlocal.  What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall.  Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door.  It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.   SingleFamily Homes 45 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $313,232 with 133 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $185,500. The most expensive home sold for $1.225M and was new construction.  It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath, 2car garage home in 4321sf built in 2007 in a gated/manned community on .51 acre lot with an infinityedge pool, spa, tile roof, bonus room, tile and wood floors, doublesided fireplace, etc.  The community offers a swimming pool and tennis courts with an HOA of $2200/annually.  The least expensive home sold for $60,150 after 25 days on the market.  It was a bankowned 3 bedroom, 1½ bath, 1car carport home with 1008sf built in 1971 on .23 acre with no HOA.  The home was listed as a handyman special. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $256,683 with 124 days on the market.   Condos, Townhomes & Villas 12 homes sold. The average sales price was $174,817 with 202 days on the market. The median sales price was $163,000. The most expensive sold for $245,000 after 185 days on the market.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2car garage townhome in 1914sf with corian countertops, stainless steel appliances, wood floors.  The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $151. The least expensive sold for $134,830 and was new home construction.  It was a 2 bedroom, 2½ bath townhome in 1196sf.  This gated community offers a pool with a maintenance of $410/quarterly. The average sales price a year earlier was $178,896 with 97 days on the market.     For information on Sanford and Seminole County real estate and Sanford and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Sanford and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Sanford and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Sanford-Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for-May-‘0/8713/post_details/975/2008-06-14 14:37:30  (click images to enlarge) The following are the market sales statistics for Oviedo, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  Oviedo is made up of the zip codes of 32765 & 32766, which is partly considered Chuluota.  For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.   There needs to be a disclaimer here.  These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time.  Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyperlocal.  What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall.  Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door.  It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.   SingleFamily Homes 59 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $290,269 with 166 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $259,000. The most expensive home sold for $725,000 and was on the market for 290 days.  It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3car garage home in 3721sf built in 2000 on .37 acre in a gated community with a swimming pool and spa, summer kitchen, granite countertops, stainless steel, jacuzzi, tile, wood and stainless steel Murphy bed.  The community offers a playground with a HOA of $1200/year. The least expensive home sold for $140,500 after 37 days on the market.  It was a bankowned 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2car garage 1393sf home built in 1986 on .20 acre.  The lender was offering closing costs and a selling agent bonus.  The community offers a playground with an HOA of $135/year. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $338,724 with 118 days on the market.   Condos, Townhomes & Villas 16 homes sold The average sales price was $180,158 with 217 days on the market. The median sales price was $179,500. The most expensive sold for $232,490 and was new construction.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 1671sf townhome with a 2car garage with tile, 42" cabinets, Jacuzzi, wood floors and more.  This gated community offers a pool with a maintenance of $405/quarter. The least expensive sold for $139,000 after 249 days on the market.  It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath 975sf condo built in 1991 with tile floors throughout.  The community offers a pool, tennis courts and playground with a maintenance of $208/month. The average sales price a year earlier was $211,730 with 78 days on the market.   For information on Oviedo and Seminole County real estate and Oviedo and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Oviedo and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Oviedo and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Oviedo-Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for-May-‘08/8713/post_details/974/2008-06-14 14:36:51  The following are the market sales statistics for Maitland, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for May 2008.  Maitland is made up of the zip code 32751.  For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. There needs to be a disclaimer here.  These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time.  Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyperlocal.  What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall.  Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door.  It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.   32751 SingleFamily Homes 11 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $339,264 with 99 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $281,000. The most expensive home sold for $665,000 with 237 days on the market.  It was a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3car garage home in 3044sf built in 1996 in a gated community on .32 acre with heated pool, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, 2 fireplaces, paver pool deck and front porch.  The community offers tennis courts with an HOA of $170 monthly.  The least expensive home sold for $150,000 after 115 days on the market and was a short sale.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2car carport in 1170sf built in 1959 on .20 acre with new kitchen cabinets and countertops and no HOA.  The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $386,544 with 103 days on the market.   32751 Condos, Townhomes & Villas 2 homes sold with an average sales price was $262,450 with 377 days on the market. The more expensive sold for $299 and was new construction.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath, 2car garage townhome in 1924sf with tile roof, paver driveway, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, marble vanity tops, 42” cabinets, crown moulding, etc.  The community offers a pool and clubhouse with a monthly maintenance of $225. The less expensive sold for $225,000 and was on the market for 221 days.  It was a short sale 2 bedroom, 2½ bath, 1car garage townhome in 1545sf built in 2005 in a gated community with a tile roof, granite countertops, tile, balcony off of master.  The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $309. The average sales price a year earlier was $173,289 with 108 days on the market.   For information on Maitland and Seminole and Orange County real estate and Maitland and Seminole and Orange County homes for sale in addition to Maitland and Seminole and Orange County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Maitland and Seminole and Orange County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Maitland-Seminole-and-Orange-Counties-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statist/8713/post_details/973/2008-06-14 14:36:09  (click images to enlarge) The following are the market sales statistics for Longwood, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  Longwood is made up of the zip codes of 32779 & 32750.  For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. There needs to be a disclaimer here.  These stats are only as good as telling us what it being purchased and happening at a certain period in time.  Additionally, it needs to be fully understood that not only is real estate local, but it is hyperlocal.  What this means is that the trends that we hear about are overall.  Let's put it this way, what's happening in one neighborhood, may not be realized in the neighborhood next door.  It is all relative and this has to be understood when utilizing these stats.   SingleFamily Homes 36 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $408,787 with 132 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $279,750. The most expensive home sold for $1.087M and was on the market for 308 days.  It was a 3 bedroom, 4 bath, 4045sf home built in 2004 on .59 acres in a gated manned golf community with a 4car garage, a screen enclosed swimming pool & spa on a conservation lot with a fireplace, granite countertops, travertine, custom fish tank, cathedral ceilings, etc.  The community offers a pool & playground, ball field, tennis courts, volleyball court, beach with a HOA of $573 quarterly. The least expensive home sold for $182,000 after 206 days on the market.  It was a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 2car garage home with 1523sf built in 1974 on .18 acre with  tile in all living areas, enclosed sunroom and screened patio with no HOA. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $529,198 with 124 days on the market.   Condos, Townhomes & Villas 4 homes sold. The average sales price was $157,500 with 228 days on the market. The median sales price was $160,000. The most expensive condo sold for $165,000 and was on the market for 379 days.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1story, 1car garage home with 1575sf built in 1984 with screened patio and fireplace, enclosed sunroom, new appliances, roof and exterior siding.  The community offers a swimming pool with a monthly maintenance of $245 and an annual HOA of $232. The least expensive sold for $145,000 and was on the market for 114.  It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1car garage 1story end unit townhome with 991sf built in 1980 in a golf community with fireplace, screened porch, new roof, a/c, carpet & appliances.  The community offers a pool & playground with a monthly maintenance of $250 and an annual HOA of $232. The average sales price a year earlier was $178,629 with 90 days on the market.   For information on Longwood and Seminole County real estate and Longwood and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Longwood and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Longwood and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Longwood-Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for-May-‘/8713/post_details/960/2008-06-12 06:27:56 The following are the market sales statistics for Lake Mary, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  Lake Mary is made up of the zip code 32746.  For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. 32746 SingleFamily Homes 24 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $419,482 with 138 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $380,000. The most expensive home sold for $1.165M and was new construction.  It was a 4 bedroom, 4 bath, 3car garage golf front home with 4965sf home in a gated community on .39 acre with a screen enclosed pool and spa, summer kitchen, wood & porcelain tile, crown mouldings, granite countertops, brick circular driveway, etc.  The HOA is $335/quarterly. The least expensive home sold for $168,100 after 208 days on the market.  It was a bank owned 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2car garage corner lot home in 1401sf built in 1992 on .10 acre with tile.  The HOA is $229 annually. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $477,817 with 141 days on the market.   32746 Condos, Townhomes & Villas 6 homes sold The average sales price was $207,362 with 73 days on the market. The median sales price was $218,750. The most expensive sold for $252,500 and was new construction.  It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath, 3 floors, 2car garage townhome in a gated community with 2088sf  built in 2007 in Lake Mary with an elevator, stainless steel appliances, tile roof, etc.   The community offers a pool and recreation building with a monthly maintenance of $500. The least expensive sold for $125,000 and was on the market for 128 days.  It was a corporate owned 2 bedroom, 1½ bath townhome 1095sf built in 2001 in a gated community with a screened porch.  The community offers a pool, rec building and exercise room with a monthly maintenance of $190. The average sales price a year earlier was $231,905 with 186 days on the market.   For information on Lake Mary and Seminole County real estate and Lake Mary and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Lake Mary and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Lake Mary and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Lake-Mary-Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for-May/8713/post_details/959/2008-06-12 06:27:08  (click images to enlarge) The following are the market sales statistics for Casselberry, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  Casselberry is made up of the zip code 32707.  For purposes of this analysis we will be splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. 32707 SingleFamily Homes 21 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $201,077 with 132 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $186,000. The most expensive home sold for $335,000 after 76 days on the market.  It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath, 2car garage lakefront home in 2681sf built in 1986 on .38 acre with a pool and spa.  The community offers a dock & boat ramp with an HOA of $300 annually. The least expensive home sold for $72,000 after 74 days on the market.  It was a bank owned 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in 1004sf built in 1971 with no garage or HOA. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $238,649 with 95 days on the market.   32707 Condos, Townhomes & Villas 4 homes sold The average sales price was $112,075 with 93 days on the market. The median sales price was $111,950. The most expensive sold for $164,500 after 43 days on the market.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1car carport 1st floor condo in 1365sf built in 1986 in a gated community with wood laminate floors, fireplace, new carpet, tile and a/c.  The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance is $278. The least expensive sold for $59,900 after 116 days on the market.  It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath fixer upper condo with 781sf built in 1972.  The community offers boat dock, swimming pool, clubhouse, tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $180. The average sales price a year earlier was $156,750 with 115 days on the market. You will note on the map that Casselberry is listed as 32730.  Although this might be so, it is also known as Fern Park.    For information on Casselberry and Seminole County real estate and Casselberry and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Casselberry and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Casselberry and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!  http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Casselberry-Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for-Ma/8713/post_details/958/2008-06-12 06:26:33 The following are the market sales statistics for Apopka, Seminole and Orange Counties, Florida for May 2008.  Apopka is made up of the zip codes of 32703 & 32712.  For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.   32703 SingleFamily Homes 22 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $190,669 with 168 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $182,284. The most expensive home sold for $377,500 and was new construction built in 2006.  It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 2car garage home in 3749sf home in a gated community with lake access and a community pool and an HOA of $1000 annually. The least expensive home sold for $18,000 after 48 days on the market.  It was a bank owned uninhabitable home built in 1957 on .11 acre with no HOA. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $256,373 with 131 days on the market.   32703 Condos, Townhomes & Villas 1 sold for $190,000 and was on the market for 152 days.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 2car garage townhome in a gated community with 1760sf built in 2001 with screened patio and jacuzzi.  The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $227. The average sales price a year earlier was $159,200 with 133 days on the market.   32712 Single Family Homes 32 homes sold The average sales price was $251,341 with 152 days on the market. The median sales price was $238,750. The most expensive home sold for $445,000 after 403 days on the market.  It was a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 3car garage home with 3841sf built in 2005 in a gated community on .36 acre with a screen enclosed self cleaning pool with salt water system, granite countertops, 42” cabinets, stainless steel appliances, double ovens, media room, bonus room, 4zone a/c.  The community has a park and playground with an HOA of $200 quarterly. The least expensive home sold for $91,000 with 348 days on the market.  It was a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home, 1car detached garage in 880sf built in 1950 on .14 acre with a detached workshop and no HOA. The average sales price a year earlier was $307,414 with 123 days on the market.   32712 Condos, Townhomes & Villas 1 sold for $145,000 and was on the market for 82 days.  It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath 1car garage townhome in a gated community with 1352sf built in 2006 with 42” cabinets, crown moulding, stainless steel appliances.  The community offers a pool and recreation building with a monthly maintenance of $299.78. The average sales price a year earlier was $216,500 with 153 days on the market.   For information on Apopka and Seminole County real estate and Apopka and Orange County homes for sale in addition to Apopka and Orange County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Apopka and Orange County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Apopka-Seminole-amp-Orange-Counties-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics/8713/post_details/957/2008-06-12 06:25:56  (click images for larger picture) The following are the market sales statistics for Altamonte Springs, Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  Altamonte Springs is made up of the zip codes of 32701 & 32714.  For purposes of this analysis we are not only splitting the data according to zip codes, but also singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas.   32714 – SingleFamily Homes   14 homes sold during the month of May.   The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $469,750 with 153 days on the market.   The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $209,000.   The most expensive home sold for $3.5M and was new construction.  It was a 7 bedroom, 9½ bath, 3car garage lakefront home in 7638sf in Altamonte Springs on .54 acres of land in a gated community with an infinite edge swimming pool and spa, circular staircase, 2 stone fireplaces, morning kitchen in master suite, elevator, wine cellar, etc.   The community off a boat ramp with an HOA of $600/quarter and $200 monthly.   The least expensive home sold for $104,000 after 260 days on the market.  It was a 3 bedroom, 1 bath, 1carport corner lot home with 828sf built in 1960 on .20 acre with tile throughout with a new shower, some new fixtures and interior doors.  There is no HOA.   The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $354,839 with 105 days on the market.     32714 – Condos, Townhomes & Villas   9 homes sold   The average sales price was $116,344 with 187 days on the market.   The median sales price was $104,900.   The most expensive sold for $188,000 and was on the market for 163 days.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2   ½ bath, 1car garage townhome in a gated community with 1520sf  built in 2005 with lake view, upgraded appliances, fire sprinklers, interior laundry room.   The community offers a pool with a monthly maintenance of $227.   The least expensive sold for $84,900 and was a condo conversion.  It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath condo in 651sf built in 1971.  The community has a pool, tennis courts, basketball court, picnic area & clubhouse with a monthly maintenance of $145.74.   The average sales price a year earlier was $142,631 with 159 days on the market.     32701 – Single Family Homes   7 homes sold   The average sales price was 208,714 with 100 days on the market.   The median sales price was $175,000.   The most expensive home sold for $417,000 in 293 days.  It was a 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 2 cargarage home with 2493sf built in 1998 located in a gated community on .29 acre with a solar heated pool, tile and wood floors throughout, large lanai with builtin grill, 2 gas fireplaces, crown mouldings.  The HOA is $220/quarter.   The least expensive home sold for $72,000 in 33 days.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath bankowned home with 1car garage in 1056sf built in 1974 located on .24 acre.  The home was listed as a handyman special with a pool that needed to be completed.  There is no HOA.   The average sales price a year earlier was $271,956 with 90 days on the market.     32701 – Condos, Townhomes & Villas   7 homes sold   The average sales price of $125,929 with 167 days on the market.   The median sales price was $115,000.   The most expensive sold for $180,000 in 132 days.  It was a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 1 story split plan end unit condo in 1817sf built in 1974 with vaulted ceilings and enclosed sunroom with wood laminate floors in a gated lakefront community.  The community offers a swimming pool, tennis courts, shuffleboard, dock, bbq grills, clubhouse, fitness room with a maintenance fee of $278.75/month.   The least expensive condo for $103,000 after 91 days on the market.  It was a 2 bedroom, 2 bath 2nd floor condo with 1216sf built in 1970 with a lake view and Murphy bed in the second bedroom.  The community offers a pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, exercise room and lake access with a monthly maintenance of $317 plus an assessment of $23 per month.   The average sales price of a year earlier was $142,886 with 125 days on the market.   For information on Altamonte Springs and Seminole County real estate and Altamonte Springs and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Altamonte Springs and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Altamonte Springs and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Altamonte-Springs-Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics/8713/post_details/956/2008-06-12 06:24:59This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   HARRIET LAKE:  THE CLOSET             When:            through June 22             Where:          Mennello Museum of American Art                                     900 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free             Contact:        4072464278   THEATER   POPCORN FLICKS             What:             outdoor screening of Breakfast at Tiffany’s             When:            June 12 – 8pm             Where:          Central Park                                     Park Avenue                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076290054   MUSIC   OSCEOLA CENTER BIG BAND             When:            June  14 – 2pm             Where:          Osceola Center for the Arts                                     2411 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy.                                     Kissimmee             Cost:              $10             Contact:        4078466257   AUTHOR   JULIE COMPTON             What:             author of Tell No Lies             When:            June  14 – 1pm             Where:          Urban Think Bookstore                                     625 E. Central Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076508004   DANCE   THE DANCER’S POINTE:  CELEBRATE FLORIDA             When:            June  14 – 2pm             Where:          Carr Performing Arts Center                                     401 W. Livingston St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $13 & 17.50             Contact:        4078492577   ETC   SUMMER BLUES & BBQ             What:             wine, food and entertainment             When:            June  12 – 59pm             Where:          City of Sanford                                     1st St & Palmetto Ave.                                     Sanford             Cost:              $5 Donation             Contact:        4073022586   UNDER A TUSCAN MOON             What:             gala to benefit the Shriners Children’s Hospital             When:            June  14 – 7:30pm             Where:          Shriners Auditorium                                     2300 Pembrook Drive                                     Maitland             Cost:              $50 – must be purchased before 6/10             Contact:        4072730776   ONGOING   OPEN MIKE POETRY             When:            Wednesdays – 8pm             Where:          Cup O Soul                                     906 W. Fairbanks Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076477685   PLAN AHEAD   CASINO NIGHT             What:             benefits the Alzheimers Assn, Canine Companions & the  Employee & Student Volunteer Scholarship Fund             When:            June  21 – 710pm             Where:          The Heritage at Lake Forest                                     5433 W. SR 46                                     Sanford             Cost:              $20             Contact:        4073222207   ALLISON’S TOURNAMENT OF HOPE             What:             tourn, luncheon & auction to benefit the Greater Orlando                                     Children’s Miracle Network             When:            June  21 – 7:30am             Where:          Celebration Golf Club                                     701 Golf Park Drive                                     Celebrationi             Cost:              $85             Contact:        4073464640   BABY LOVES DISCO             What:             dance party for children and parents             When:            June 22 – 2pm             Where:          Club Firestone                                     578 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $12 or Free if you can’t walk             Contact:        4078720066   TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS             What:             the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra             When:            June  28 – 8pm             Where:          OIA                                     1 Airport Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078252055       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--June-10-2008/8713/post_details/946/2008-06-10 05:24:55   (click on the images to enlarge) The following are the market sales statistics for Seminole County, Florida for May 2008.  For purposes of this analysis we are only splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. SingleFamily Homes 262 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $329,856 with 143 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $250,000. The most expensive home sold for $3.5M and was new construction.  It was a 7 bedroom, 9½ bath, 3car garage lakefront home in 7638sf in Altamonte Springs on .54 acres of land in a gated community with an infinite edge swimming pool and spa, circular staircase, 2 stone fireplaces, morning kitchen in master suite, elevator, wine cellar, etc.   The community off a boat ramp with an HOA of $600/quarter and $200 monthly. The least expensive home sold for $60,150 after 25 days on the market.  It was a bankowned 3 bedroom, 1½ bath home with 1008sf built in 1971 in Sanford on .23 acre with no HOA. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $344,157 with 118 days on the market.   Condos, Townhomes & Villas 63 homes sold The average sales price was $155,597 with 182 days on the market. The median sales price was $160,000. The most expensive sold for $252,500 and was new construction.  It was a 4 bedroom, 3½ bath, 3 floors, 2car garage townhome in a gated community with 2088sf  built in 2007 in Lake Mary with an elevator, stainless steel appliances, tile roof, etc.   The community offers a pool and recreation building with a monthly maintenance of $500. The least expensive sold for $59,900 after 116 days on the market.  It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath fixer upper condo with 781sf built in 1972 in Casselberry.  The community offers boat dock, swimming pool, clubhouse, tennis courts with a monthly maintenance of $180. The average sales price a year earlier was $175,584 with 123 days on the market.   For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Seminole-County-FL-–-Market-Sales-Statistics-for-May-‘08/8713/post_details/945/2008-06-10 05:23:34  (click on images to enlarge) The following are the market sales statistics for Orange County, Florida for May 2008.  The major city in Orange County is Orlando.  For purposes of this analysis we are splitting the data according to singlefamily homes vs, condominiums, townhomes and villas. SingleFamily Homes 620 homes sold during the month of May. The average sales price, which is the total sold volume divided by the number of homes sold is $319,099 with 151 days on the market. The median sales price, which means that 50% of the homes sold for more and 50% of the homes sold for less, is $231,495. The most expensive home sold for $5.8M and was on the market for 89 days.  It was a 6 bedroom, 7½ baths, 9040sf home in Winter Park built in 1993 on 1.95 acres with 235’ lake frontageon a chain of lakes with 2 garages that can house 6 vehicles a circular driveway, a boat house w/hoist, jet ski ramp, 3 fireplaces, with verandas and balconies running the width of the house with no HOA. The least expensive home sold for $18,000 after 48 days on the market.  It was bankowned and listed as uninhabitable on .11 acres with no HOA. The average sales price for the same period a year earlier was $381,082 with 128 days on the market.    Condos, Townhomes & Villas 149 homes sold The average sales price was $186,829 with 162 days on the market. The median sales price was $142,500. The most expensive condo sold for $1.625Mand was new construction.  It was a 4 bedroom, 4½ bath 2story, 2car garage lakefront coach home with 3778sf in Lake Nona with a butler’s pantry and elevator.  This is a gated golf community of 4 units.  They have a heated swimming pool, boat dock, fitness center with a quarterly maintenance of $1375 and a monthly maintenance is $651. The least expensive sold for $15,000 and was on the market for 61 days.  It was a 1 bedroom, 1 bath bank owned fixer upper in 276sf built in 1974.  It was a motel converted to condos. The average sales price a year earlier was $236,824 with 145 days on the market.   For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Orange-County-Florida-Market-Statistics--May-2008/8713/post_details/944/2008-06-10 05:21:19  In the past couple of posts, we’ve discussed Creating a Disaster Supply Kit and having a Pet Plan.  While these are necessary to have, they really won’t mean anything if you do not have a Disaster Plan in place.  This is just one more item to help all remain calm during this time. Since we already have a Disaster Supply Kit and a Pet Plan, we now need to focus on when will implement these whether it is just yourself, maybe a spouse or partner, or even a family.  One of the things that needs to be discussed is the types of hazards that you can come across and what you can possibly expect in terms of damage to the structure of your home.  Not thinking about this is only deluding yourself.  On the other hand I’m also not proposing dwelling on this as well.  One thing you need to do it to determine where the safest part of your home is in case a hurricane should strike.  In some instances, your home may not be safe and some other area or location may have to be considered.  Additionally, evacuation routes should be considered, but if you are NOT in a mandatoryevacuation area, then do not leave!  This can’t be stressed enough.  There will be too many people already trying to leave areas that are supposedly more imperiled and more people will just add to the chaos and clogging of the roads. But you do need to plan on where to meet if other than your home.  Also, make sure that you have someone out of the area and preferably out of state to be the key contact person for all of you.  The following are links to Storm Shelters for the counties of Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia.  You will note that some shelters are denoted for pets, those with special needs, and whether they be a primary or secondary shelter.  Also do not go to a shelter until you are instructed to do so. Again, let’s hope for a very mild hurricane season!  And no matter what you do – be safe!   For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/2008-Hurricane-Season-–-Create-a-Disaster-Plan/8713/post_details/854/2008-06-04 17:53:50It’s easy with all the running around and chaos to sometimes forget about your pets or at least the planning for their safety as well.  I was planning on writing this post a little later on, but with the mentions about our pets, I thought I’d do it now. Here’s a rule of thumb to think about.  If it’s dangerous for you, then it’s dangerous for your pets.  Didn’t Katrina and others teach us that?  If you wait for the last minute and don’t plan, you will most likely leave your pet thinking that they’ll be alright and that you’ll come back for them tomorrow.  But you surely don’t know what’s going to happen now, so how can you be so sure of tomorrow.  Yes, we’d like to be optimistic, but let’s go one step better – let’s be smart! OK, enough of a lecture.  Now to our beloved friends…  One of the first things you have to consider is where are you going if disaster strikes.  Now, we will take further on this in another post, but you have to consider it moreso when your pets are involved.  Not all shelters will accept pets, yet there are usually pet shelters available depending on where you live.  Oh yes, and they will fill quickly.  There is also the possibility of friends and relatives, but you have to remember that this may be a greater imposition than what one has a right to expect. Additionally, you need to make sure of a couple of things:             Make sure your pet is current on their vaccinations & that you have proof                         of such, because the shelters will probably require this.              You’ll need a pet carrier.  Because even though you may be at a pet                         shelter, you pet will have to be caged, so make sure that it has                         enough room.             Have a collar, leash and possibly even a current photo.             Ample food & water for your pet as well as yourself.  You’ll also need food                         & water bowls as well as any medications and also trash bags and                         newspaper for cleanups.             Don’t forget a favorite toy of your pet and possibly even their bed.  Just                         something to be a sort of stressrelief.  As the storm approaches, try to keep you pet calm.  You should know how intuitive they are.  They will sense an impending emergency in you, so that means that you have to try to remain calm as well. After an experience like this, which may be somewhat traumatic for some animals, be careful until they are fully reorientated back into their home.  Remember, this will be almost as stressful on your pet as it will be yourself. But then again, let’s hope that you never need to implement any of these measures!!   For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!    http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/2008-Hurricane-Season-–-Pet-Plan/8713/post_details/852/2008-06-04 11:40:27This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   ART FOR AWARENESS             What:             art auction to benefit breast cancer research             When:            June 6 – 6:30pm             Where:          Buenva Vista Suites                                     8203 World Center Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              $10 donation             Contact:        4078563898   HARRIET LAKE:  THE CLOSET             When:            through June 22             Where:          Mennello Museum of American Art                                     900 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free             Contact:        4072464278   THEATER   DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS             What:             outdoor screening of Maverick             When:            June 6 – 8:30pm             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $7 adults; $2 children             Contact:        4072462620   HORTON HEARS A WHO             What:             screening of the new animated film             When:            June 6 – 9pm             Where:          UCF Arena                                     50 N. Gemini Blvd                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078233070   MUSIC   JEANS AND JEWELS – AN EVENING WITH FRIENDS             What:             music and dancing in a casual atmosphere for the Orlando                                     Philharmonic Orchestra             When:            June 7 – 7pm             Where:          Wiinter Park Farmers Market                                     200 W. New England Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              $50 – advance registration required             Contact:        4078966700 x 223   ORLANDO SUMMER JAM FESTIVAL             What:             rides, concerts & fireworks             When:            June  8 – 10am – 9pm             Where:          Lake Eola Park                                     195 N. Rosalind Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free   FL YOUNG ARTISTS ORCHESTRA             When:            June 8 – 3pm             Where:          Trinity Prep Performing Center                                     5700 Trinity Prep Lane                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free – donations accepted             Contact:        4072578886   AUTHOR   BOB KEALING             What:             lecture by the author of Tupperware Unsealed             When:            June  6 – noon             Where:          Lake Lily Park                                     840 Lake Lily Drive                                     Maitland             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076442451   ETC   WINEQUEST             What:             tastings, dinners & seminars at area restaurants             When:            June 6 14             Where:          Grand Bohemian                                     325 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $45 – 85 per event             Contact:        4072184300   UNDER A TUSCAN MOON             What:             gala to benefit the Shriners Children’s Hospital             When:            June  14 – 7:30pm             Where:          Shriners Auditorium                                     2300 Pembrook Drive                                     Maitland             Cost:              $50 – must be purchased before 6/10             Contact:        4072730776   ONGOING   OPEN MIKE POETRY             When:            Wednesdays – 8pm             Where:          Cup O Soul                                     906 W. Fairbanks Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076477685   PLAN AHEAD   POPCORN FLICKS             What:             outdoor screening of Breakfast at Tiffany’s             When:            June 12 – 8pm             Where:          Central Park                                     Park Avenue                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076290054   CASINO NIGHT             What:             benefits the Alzheimers Assn, Canine Companions & the  Employee & Student Volunteer Scholarship Fund             When:            June  21 – 710pm             Where:          The Heritage at Lake Forest                                     5433 W. SR 46                                     Sanford             Cost:              $20             Contact:        4073222207   BABY LOVES DISCO             What:             dance party for children and parents             When:            June 22 – 2pm             Where:          Club Firestone                                     578 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $12 or Free if you can’t walk             Contact:        4078720066   TRIBUTE TO OUR TROOPS             What:             the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra             When:            June  28 – 8pm             Where:          OIA                                     1 Airport Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078252055       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/-What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--June-3-2008/8713/post_details/846/2008-06-03 04:44:37Don’t’ wait until you hear warnings of a hurricane/tropical storm approaching.  Unfortunately, too many people do and are rushing to Home Depot, Lowes, not to forget all of the grocery stores in search of supplies.  You can and should be stocked up on this beforehand and in many instances the cost will be less to you because once the supplies start getting low, the prices rise. Let’s first look at the necessary list of items and then we’ll discuss this a little further: Water – at least 1 gal per person per day for 3 – 7 days. Food – for at least 3 – 7 days             Nonperishable canned or packaged goods & juices             Comfort foods snacks             Cooking utensils and fuel, such as a filled propane tank for a grill             Disposable products – paper plates and plastic utensils             Food for infants and the elderly Medicines/Prescription Drugs Flashlights & batteries as well as candles & lighters/matches Battery operated Radios Telephones – cell phones charged & a regular corded telephone Vehicles should have full tanks of gas Cash & also Credit Cards (yet with a power outage they may not be as easily             used).  Don’t forget to have some coins on hand as well. Keys Important documents – placed in a watertight container             Insurance policies – house, medical, life             Bank account numbers & passbooks and checkbooks             Social Security cards             Any important documents that you store in your home should be easily                         accessible if needed in a moments notice. Toiletries & Moist wipes Special items – for babies and the elderly First Aid Kit Toys & Games for children and also books and reading material.  Possibly bedding & clothing and surely don’t forget about your pets, but this will be discussed more fully in another post shortly. This is by far not a complete list, but gives you an idea of some things to have readily available.  Additionally, many of these things should be kept in a watertight container as a storm approaches because what use are many of these items if they get wet. If you know a major storm is approaching possibly turn the refrigerator and freezer up to their coldest settings and make as much ice as possible with the time that you have.  Yes, it will cost you a little electricity, but it also may have your refrigerated products last longer.  If the power does go out and you need to retrieve something from the refrigerator, think about where it is before opening the door.  You don’t want too much cold air escaping.  Also, don’t forget that over time your food will thaw and there will be water that will collect in the bottom of your freezer and refrigerator.  I know this may appear to be somewhat scary and overwhelming, but preparing ahead of time will allow you to cope with a situation more easily.  Here’s hoping that you won’t need to use any of these suggestions!    For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/2008-Hurricane-Season-–-Create-a-Disaster-Supply-Kit/8713/post_details/844/2008-06-02 16:15:28Yes, today is the first day of the 2008 Hurricane Season which lasts for the next six months.  The NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced that it predicts we will have a ‘near normal or above normal Atlantic hurricane season.’  Talk about ambiguity.  I trust them to track the storms, but don’t put much weight on their predictions.  I think they’ve been more often incorrect in their predictions.  The 2008 tropical storm names are: Arthur Bertha Cristobal Dolly Edouard Fay Gustav Hanna Ike Josephine Kyle Laura Marco Nana Omar Paloma Rene Sally Teddy Vicky Wilfred In the event of more than 21 names storms, the Greek Alphabet will then be used. In the next few days, we’ll be discussing several things that you should do to be prepared for weathering a storm.  In the meantime, here are some links that you may find useful: The National Hurricane Center The National Weather Service Central Florida Hurricane Center Hoping that this is an easy and light storm season for all of us!   For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Hurricane-Season-2008-Is-Here!/8713/post_details/843/2008-06-01 16:32:15  With that said, when I saw this going around on Memorial Day I was hoping that I wouldn’t be victimized selected for this illustrious task.  I was at first concerned about what I could come up with since I’ve written several already.  And then you were asked to YouTube and Flickr, etc.  Holy Moly, so much work and didn’t think that I’d be up to the task.  Then in my email this morning, I got a cute little message from Sandra Cummings, “Your it....have fun....”  Well, ‘fun’ wasn’t the first thing that came to mind.  OK, enough with the bellyaching.  Actually, I probably would have put this off to later, but see that so many people are being tagged and if I didn’t do this soon, then I’d have to try to find more victims, uh I mean, interested contestants.   The MeMe’s are floating around the blogsphere and as I stated I got tagged by Sandra, who was tagged by Jason Sardi, who was tagged by Jeff Belonger, who was tagged by Jeff Dowler, who was tagged by Mary McKnight, who started this crazy little game.  Whew,  just thinking of that is getting me tired already.  It’s the age thing, what can I say?  Probably a lot, but maybe not here – go figure!!   For a little background history, the purpose of a MeMe is to divulge a little something about you that others may not know.  It is a very interesting way of learning about people whose blog posts you read.  Then you, in this case, tag 8 more people to share in the love fest.   So without further ado here’s my MeMe:   Who’s your favorite musical artist?  Wow!  This has changed so much during the course of my life.  I think that the first song that I really remember is this.  The first song that I recorded was this.  OK, so I know that I’m dating myself and I’m getting off track.  Was definitely into the Moody Blues in the late 60’s & 70’s.  Goodness, so many great groups/people are coming to mind:  Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young; The Eagles; Linda Ronstadt; The Doors; Bad Company; Madonna (but that was much later on); The Police; U2; Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes; David Bowie; and, the list can go on and on as most of my posts do.  I was definitely into the English Beat in the late 70’s & early 80’s including the likes of Elvis Costello and the Attractions, Dave Edmunds, Nick Lowe, Billy Idol, Graham Parker and the Rumor.  OK, so finally to my answer.  It would have to be someone that I first heard in the Main Lounge at Seton Hall University in, I think it was, ’73.  Can’t even tell you how many times I’ve seen him, but the answer would have to be Bruce Springsteen and especially with the E Street Band.  I would have to say that this is one of my all time favorites from the album The Wild, the Innocent and the E Street Shuffle.   Who is your favorite artist?  I tend to favor more abstract art and expressionism than the classics.  I think some of Kandinsky’s work is breath taking.  But on the other hand I also like Marc Chagall.  But I’d have to consider my favorites to be Folon and David Hockney.     Who is your favorite blogger?  I generally do not like to pick favorites as is obvious by this post already.  But with that said, I would have to say hands down they (oops, can’t chose – they are all great in their own right, just read them and you’ll see) would include Andrew Lenza, Jason Sardi & Jennifer Bukaty.  I’m not going to even go into why because this will then become a novel.  Read each and you will understand in a heart beat.  If I see any of their names on my blogroll, my finger itches to click on their post (Sardi and Lenza don’t even think of going there!).    If you could meet anyone (alive or dead), who would it be and what is the most interesting thing about them?  I just don’t really know.  Firstly, I must reiterate what Lenn Harley stated in that how would I know what is the most interesting thing about them if I haven’t met them already.  That said maybe I’m not imaginative enough to see myself in the company of someone possibly famous.  Like Popeye says, ‘I yams what I yams’ or something of that sort.   What did you want to be when you grew up?  Maybe I’m getting old, but I can’t really remember except for one thing is that I always wanted to fly airplanes, but unfortunately was never able to for physical reasons.   What is the most interesting piece of trivia you know?  Not very good at this one also.  I probably know a lot of what some may consider useless information, but when put on the spot…..  Sorry, can’t really think of something and all I’d do would be to Google it and then write something, but you can do that yourself.   If you could live in any point in history what would it be and why?  Again, forgive me for not being imaginative and I surely can be, but I really like the times that I’ve lived through.  We’ve had our ups and downs, but then so has every other era.  I think when I was younger, I’d always thought of living in the future, but now I’m not so sure of that.   What is the most interesting job you have ever held?  Now this is fun.  I always enjoyed being a Kosher Deliman, but my most favorite job, other than what I presently do (yet I don’t consider this a job) would have to be in the late 80’s.  I’d work for a restaurant and while there we opened up several more.  I was in charge of all of the wine, liquor and beer purchasing for all of the restaurants and handled all of the contractual services and basically anything that had to do with non food purchasing.  Additionally, I also coordinated the opening of all of the restaurants including the design as well, but mostly for the kitchen and wait stations.  Love the job and didn’t mind the long hours, but unfortunately, they just didn’t want to pay enough.   OK, that’s enough of me for a MeMe for a very long time.  Here are your next candidates and they all happen to be lovely ladies:   Jennifer Bukaty Lisa Heindel Jan Evett Jeanette Neerpat Sarah Cooper Elaine Hanson Elizabeth Weintraub Paige Rausch Jan Wood Janet Guilbault   ps.  I have to mention that it is with regret that I totally neglected to add Paul Slaybaugh to the cast of characters as one of my favorite bloggers.  Just read some of his prose if you haven't already and you'll immediately understand why!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/A-Super-Duper-MeMe-–-Oy-Vay!-Here-We-Go-Again!!/8713/post_details/834/2008-05-29 06:21:27This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   HARRIET LAKE:  THE CLOSET             When:            through June 22             Where:          Mennello Museum of American Art                                     900 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free             Contact:        4072464278   THEATER   DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS             What:             outdoor screening of Maverick             When:            June 6 – 8:30pm             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $7 adults; $2 children             Contact:        4072462620   HORTON HEARS A WHO             What:             screening of the new animated film             When:            June 6 – 9pm             Where:          UCF Arena                                     50 N. Gemini Blvd                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4078233070   MUSIC   A BLUES EVENING V             What:             Josh Miller Trio, Smokin’ Torpedoes, etc.             When:            May 31 – 7pm             Where:          Plaza Theatre                                     425 N. Bumby Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $12 advance; $15 day of the show             Contact:        407228\1220   ALTAMONTE SWINGS             What:             big band featuring Linda Cole             When:            June 1 – 7pm             Where:          Eastmonte Civic Center                                     830 Magnolia Drive                                     Altamonte Springs             Cost:              $5             Contact:        4073227528   ETC   CRANES COMEDY             What:             various comedians             When:            May 27 – 7pm             Where:          Cranes Roost Amphitheater                                     247 Cranes Roost Blvd.                                     Altamonte Springs             Cost:              $Free             Contact:        4075718863   PLANES, TRAINS & BBQ             What:             BBQ competition and train rides             When:            May 31 – 10am 6pm             Where:          Wooten Park                                     Main St.                                     Tavares             Cost:              $5             Contact:        3523948618   DINNER DATES SINGLES GALA             When:            June 1 – 6pm             Where:          Timacuan Golf & Country Club                                     550 Timacuan Blvd.                                     Lake Mary             Cost:              $50             Contact:        4073393283   WINEQUEST             What:             tastings, dinners & seminars at area restaurants             When:            June 6 14             Where:          Grand Bohemian                                     325 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $45 – 85 per event             Contact:        4072184300   ONGOING   OPEN MIKE POETRY             When:            Wednesdays – 8pm             Where:          Cup O Soul                                     906 W. Fairbanks Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076477685   EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL             What:             15th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at                                     5:45, 7 & 8.             When:            through June 1             Where:          Epcot                                     10000 Buena Vista Blvd.                                     Lake Buena Vista             Cost:              park admission $70 adults, $60 children     PAINT THE TOWN             What:             works from traditional to contemporary             When:            through June 1   8am – 9pm             Where:          Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery                                     400 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free   PLAN AHEAD   ART FOR AWARENESS             What:             art auction to benefit breast cancer research             When:            June 6 – 6:30pm             Where:          Buenva Vista Suites                                     8203 World Center Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              $10 donation             Contact:        4078563898   FL YOUNG ARTISTS ORCHESTRA             When:            June 8 – 3pm             Where:          Trinity Prep Performing Center                                     5700 Trinity Prep Lane                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free – donations accepted             Contact:        4072578886   POPCORN FLICKS             What:             outdoor screening of Breakfast at Tiffany’s             When:            June 12 – 8pm             Where:          Central Park                                     Park Avenue                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076290054   BABY LOVES DISCO             What:             dance party for children and parents             When:            June 22 – 2pm             Where:          Club Firestone                                     578 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $12 or Free if you can’t walk             Contact:        4078720066http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--May-27-2008/8713/post_details/829/2008-05-27 07:15:58    Today’s Memorial Day, so enjoy your hammock, BBQ, pool or whatever relaxation that you have planned, but don’t forget to prepare your home for summer. It’s here and in someplaces moreso than others, especially being in Florida.   First and foremost, have your a/c checked to make sure that it is running properly and efficiently. Most of us already have our air conditioning units on all of the time and with July and August coming up they are going to working full throttle.   Also, make sure that you change your filters regularly and don’t buy the cheap ones. The are generally not as good as the pleated air filters and will allow dirt and debris through ultimately clogging up your coils and therefore a more costly repair than just spending a little extra of a better filter. Even if the filter states that it is good for 90 days, change it at 60 days. With the amount of dust that we have here this is necessary. You know that once you clean your home, there is already a layer of dust there. This is something that you can’t get away from in Florida.   Clean that clothes dryer vent. Yes, it is a pain and difficult for some to do. In that case, hire someone to do it. It is generally not that costly of an expense and there are several local companies that do this work. This is not only important in regard to your clothes dry running efficiently, but more importantly poses a fire hazard.   Clean the tracks of sliding glass doors. This is very simple and easy to do, but very much overlooked by many. Just vacuum up any loose debris and then wipe/wash the tracks clean. This will allow your sliding glass doors to operate more easily.   Check seals around doors and windows. With the driving rains that we get quite often, this is important to prevent water intrusion and the myriad of issues that can and will create.   Keep those leaders and gutters clear. A clogged gutter will most likely cause a rotted fascia & trim. And with the amount of rain that we hope to get, you want the rainwater to flow easily.   Let’s not forget our lawns and yards. Make sure that you treat them for pests and fertilize before it gets too rainy. Try to make sure that tree limbs are not overhanging your home. Not only is this not good with hurricane season starting shortly, but also gives insects another way into your home.   And with that in mind, make sure that you are preparing for the advent of hurricane season. Check batteries, alternate lighting and radios. Make sure that you have canned food and water on hand. We’ll go more into this in another post shortly.   This is just a small list and I’m sure that we can extend this greatly. Hope you all have a great summer and enjoy!!     For information on Seminole County real estate and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website. Marc Grossman, GRI http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/ 4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Get-Your-Home-Ready-For-Summer!/8713/post_details/819/2008-05-26 10:42:18  Cranes Roost Park may be considered the focal point of Uptown Altamonte located in the heart of Altamonte Springs, Seminole County, Central Florida. Cranes Roost Lake is surrounded by a 1 mile path that many use for walking and jogging. Many use this even just to get in a lunchtime walk. There are areas for picnicking and you will almost always find someone feeding the ducks on the north shore line. Cranes Roost Park additionally includes the Eddie Rose Amphitheater with its one of a kind floating stage and stadium style seating. You will find free events large and small throughout the year at Cranes Roost Park. The park is just a peaceful place to spend some time and reflect. Cranes Roost Park is surrounded by hotels, shopping, luxury apartments & condominiums. There are offices and dining all within an upscale urban air. All of this comprises Uptown Altamonte. There are many events throughout the month. Tuesday evenings will usually find Karaoke Madness with Cranes Comedy generally on the last Tuesday of the month. On Friday nights there is live entertainment by local artists that perform jazz, classic rock, contemporary, country and big band music. Generally on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month there is Streetmosphere performed by the Russian born members of CirqueMosphere. Now that we are getting into summertime, there will be jazz concerts sponsored by the City of Altamonte Springs and WLOQ 103.1 our Smooth Jazz station on one Saturday a month through August. There are also other events, usually on Saturdays such as the one last week KidsFest, which was sponsored by the Altamonte Springs Police Department; walkathons; and, car shows. Of course, one of the major events is our Red, Hot & Boom fireworks show for the Fourth of July that attracts 10’s of thousands of watchers. During the celestial holiday season, the area is decked in lights and decorations in just a lovely peaceful display. For a complete list of events and their time schedule, visit www.UptownAltamonte.com. For information on Altamonte Springs real estate and Altamonte Springs homes for sale in addition to Altamonte Springs relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Altamonte Springs Realtor @ 4074631034. Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website. Marc Grossman, GRI http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/ 4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!    http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Cranes-Roost-Lake-Park-at-Uptown-Altamonte/8713/post_details/683/2008-05-05 12:54:32This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   HIPPIES USE SIDE DOOR             When:            through May 10             Where:          BoomArt Gallery                                     1821 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072810246   HARRIET LAKE:  THE CLOSET             When:            through June 22             Where:          Mennello Museum of American Art                                     900 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free             Contact:        4072464278   THEATER   POPCORN FLICKS             What:             Outdoor screening of Jailhouse Rock When:            May 8 – 8pm             Where:          Central Park                                     Park Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076290054   ORLANDO CABARET FESTIVAL             When:            May 1 18             Where:          Mad Cow Theatre                                     105 S. Magnolia Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $15 – 20 evenings and weekends; $12 matinees             Contact:        4072978788   ROBODOC             What:             Premiere screening of the Stephen Maddocks comedy             When             May 10 11pm             Where:          Hard Rock Live                                     Universal CityWalk                                     Orlando             Cost:              $35 advance tickets; $45 day of the show             Contact:        4073515483   FILM SLAM             What:             Showcase of Independent Short Films When:            May 11 – 1pm             Where:          Enzian Theater                                     1300 S. Orlando Ave.                                     Maitland             Cost:              $5             Contact:        4076291088   THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE             What:             Joseph Robinette play adapted from the C. S. Lewis novel When:            April 18 through May 25 Fridays – 7pm Saturdays – 2 & 7pm Sundays – 2pm             Where:          Orlando Repertory Theatre                                     1001 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $15 adults, $10 children 17 and younger             Contact:        4078967365   ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL             When:            May 15 26             Where:          Orlando Loch Haven Park                                     Mills & Princeton Aves.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Individual show admissions; Fringe Button $6             Contact:        4076480077   MUSIC   SPRING JAZZ STROLL             When:            May 10 – 7PM             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $17             Contact:        4072462620   ETC   ARMY OF HOPE             What:             gala and auction to benefit families of military casualties             When:            May 9 – 7pm             Where:          Global Gallery at the Plaza                                     183 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $100             Contact:        4075881260   ORANGE TREE ANTIQUES SHOW             When:            May 9 – noon 5pm                                     May 10 – 10am – 5pm                                     May 11 – 11am – 4pm             Where:          Maitland Civic Center                                     641 S. Maitland Ave                                     Maitland             Cost:              $4             Contact:        4076444547   WINE DINNER             What:             Organic food and wine pairing at La Coquina When:            May 10 – 7pm             Where:          Grand Cypress Hyatt Regency                                     1 Grand Cypress Blvd.                                     Lake Buenva Vista             Cost:              $149             Contact:        4072393853   ONGOING   OPEN MIKE POETRY When:            Wednesdays – 8pm             Where:          Cup O Soul                                     906 W. Fairbanks Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076477685   EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL What:             15th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at 5:45, 7 & 8. When:            through June 1             Where:          Epcot                                     10000 Buena Vista Blvd.                                     Lake Buena Vista             Cost:              park admission $70 adults, $60 children   PAINT THE TOWN             What:             works from traditional to contemporary When:            through June 1   8am – 9pm             Where:          Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery                                     400 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free   PLAN AHEAD   FRIENDS OF THE WEKIVA RIVER             What:             Benefit with speaker Wes Skiles When:            May 16 – 6:30pm             Where:          Heathrow County Club                                     1200 Bridgewater Drive                                     Heathrow             Cost:              $50             Contact:        4076477487   GREAT ORLANDO BEER FESTIVAL             When:            May 17             Where:          Downtown Orlando                                     42 W. Concord St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $25 advance; $35 day of the event             Contact:        3212775079   ANTHOLOGY OF AMERICAN CHEESE             What:             Wine and cheese tasting When:            May 21 – 6:30pm             Where:          Cheese Shop on Park                                     329 N. Park Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              $15 advance; $20 at the door             Contact:        4076447296   OASIS 21             What:             Scifi convention with gaming events and guest authors When:            May 23 – 25             Where:          Downtown Orlando Sheraton                                     60 S. Ivanhoe Blvd.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $12 – 18 adults; $8 – 12 children; $35 three day pass             Contact:        4073767359   ZELLWOOD CORN FESTIVAL             When:            May 24 – 25 – noon – 10pm             Where:          Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival Grounds                                     4253 W. Ponkan Road                                     Zellwood             Cost:              $25 – advance; $30 – at the gate; 12 & under free with a                                     paid adult             Contact:        4078860014       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--5/5/8713/post_details/682/2008-05-05 12:53:10Recently read an article by Jeremy Conway in Orlando Realtor Magazine entitled, “Are you ready to deal with frugal?”(pg. 13)  Personally, I think I lead a somewhat ‘frugal life.’  I generally don’t have an issue spending money, but don’t believe in throwing it away as well.  On the other hand, I occasionally go through my house and donate things that I haven’t used in a while instead of just collecting more stuff.  And that’s an interesting thing, because all it is – is just stuff!   This got me to thinking.  For some frugality would be a deprivation of sorts; to others it is a way of life.  For someone to make change like this, they’d need to reevaluate their life and what they are doing.  This led me to wonder how often people do this.  For some of us we probably do it fairly regularly; for others, I’m sure that they almost never wish to do this.    Yes, it’s called introspection.  But what good is introspection if you don’t do anything with your socalled findings?  This extends throughout not only our personal lives, but our business lives as well.     With our business model, we have to reevaluate consistently, or at least periodically, how we do things.  Why we are doing those things?  Are we getting the desired results out of what we are doing?  These questions are pertinent to our success.    Today, I went to a mortgage market update class.  My intention in going was to be up to date on what’s happening within our industries.  I didn’t do this only for myself and my business, but feel that it is necessary for me to do this for my clients and my potential clients.  Granted, the material that was served didn’t fulfill me in the least.  But I did at least try to seek out more.    But, let’s take this another step further.  Do you generally reevaluate your personal & business lives?  Are you doing the same old thing?  Are you getting the results that you wish?  Hasn’t it been stated that insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results.    It appears to me that we are victims of rote, repetition, redundancy.  This appears to be human nature.  Whether we do this because it is easier or we are within our socalled comfort zone – I don’t know.  But it can be a hindrance to our advancement and achievements.    Do you seek out to learn possibly new ways of looking at something or doing something even simple little things?   I read blog posts daily looking to glean information; trying to learn something new or different.  And that’s part of it.  It’s the learning process.  Life is a learning process.  You have to continue to be open to learn new things or maybe even a different way to do something.  Otherwise – why?  Is it not for naught then?http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Do-You-Reevaluate-What-You-Do-–-or-Do-You-Do-The-Same-Old-Thing/8713/post_details/675/2008-04-30 16:14:22  Recently, I was called by a freelance writer in regard to a story that she was writing for the Orlando Sentinel about petfriendly communities in Orlando and decided to do some further research to assist her.  It appears that AAA (American Automobile Association) and Dogfriendly.com, which came out with its 2007 List of the Top 10 DogFriendly Vacation Spots in North America, Orlando ranks #8 in both surveys.  Since Orlando is the first Florida city on both surveys, one can deduce that Orlando is then the #1 Pet Friendly city in Florida.    One may not have assumed that the Greater Central Florida area and Orlando particularly was that petfriendly up until a few years ago when they finally allowed doggie dining.  Granted, an establishment has a pay a $150 permit fee to allow doggie dining, but it appears that many have signed on.  There is quite a large list of restaurants with outdoor dining that allow you to bring your pets along.  Some even provide water bowls and special treats for your loved ones.    In addition to the fact that there are 57 AAArated petfriendly hotels and motels in Orlando, but Walt Disney World, Universal Studios & Sea World all have facilities for your pets.    There are now 10 animal hospitals in the area according to AAA and I’ve noted at least a dozen offleash Dog Parks as well as over 60 parks and trails that allow your pet, but on a leash.  That isn’t too shabby.    Can you say Woof!?!   For more information, there are many sites including www.OrlandoDogParks.com.       For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Pet-Friendly-Orlando-and-Central-Florida/8713/post_details/667/2008-04-28 15:26:01This is a guide to a smattering of events occurring in the Orlando Central Florida area.  The sections are divided into Art, Music, Theater, Author, Etc, OnGoing and Plan Ahead.  There is surely something for everyone.    ART   SPRING SHOW             What:             works by Frank Milo, Stefano Cecchini, Thomas Arvid & others When:            through April 30             Where:          Grand Bohemian Gallery                                     325 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4075814801   HIPPIES USE SIDE DOOR             When:            through May 10             Where:          BoomArt Gallery                                     1821 N. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072810246   HARRIET LAKE:  THE CLOSET             When:            through June 22             Where:          Mennello Museum of American Art                                     900 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $8 adults, $7 senior, $5 students, children under 12 free             Contact:        4072464278   THEATER   LALALA SHOW             When:            May 3 – 7:30pm             Where:          Helen Stairs Theatre                                     203 Magnolia Ave.                                     Sanford             Cost:              $16 – 22 general admission; $12 children and seniors             Contact:        4073218111   ORLANDO CABARET FESTIVAL             When:            May 1 18             Where:          Mad Cow Theatre                                     105 S. Magnolia Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $15 – 20 evenings and weekends; $12 matinees             Contact:        4072978788   THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE             What:             Joseph Robinette play adapted from the C. S. Lewis novel When:            April 18 through May 25 Fridays – 7pm Saturdays – 2 & 7pm Sundays – 2pm             Where:          Orlando Repertory Theatre                                     1001 E. Princeton St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $15 adults, $10 children 17 and younger             Contact:        4078967365   WICKED             What:             touring production When:            April 23 through May 4 Tuesdays Saturdays – 8pm Sundays – 1pm 2pm Matinees – April 24, 26, 30 6:30pm – April 27             Where:          Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre                                     401 W. Livingston St                                     Orlando             Cost:              $35 90             Contact:        4078492577   MUSIC   DANCING UNDER THE STARS             What:             Orlando Philharmonic Ochestra             When:            May 3 – 8pm             Where:          The Springs                                     400 Woodbridge Road                                     Longwood             Cost:              $30 advance; $35 day of show             Contact:        4077700071   ETC   DATE NIGHT AT LEU GARDENS             What:             Outdoor screening of Moonstruck             When             May 2 – 8:30pm             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Avenue                                     Orlando             Cost:              $7 adults; $2 children             Contact:        4072462620   FORECLOSURE PREVENTION AND PREDATORY LENDING             What:             The City of Orlando will put on a presentation to educate                                     residents about resources available to ease the effects of                                     foreclosures and predatory lending practices.  HUD, Freddie                                     Mac and Titanium Solutions will present. When:            May 3 – 9am – 1pm             Where:          Northwest Community Center                                     3955 Country Club Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4072462708   KID FEST             What:             activities and refreshments When:            May 3 – 10am – 3pm             Where:          Cranes Roost Park                                     Altamonte Springs Drive                                     Altamonte Springs             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4075718863   RECORD & CD SHOW             When:            May 4 – 7:30am – 4pm             Where:          Central Florida Fairgrounds                                     4603 W. Colonial Drive                                     Orlando             Cost:              $10 before 10am; $3 after             Contact:        3526650259   ONGOING   OPEN MIKE POETRY When:            Wednesdays – 8pm             Where:          Cup O Soul                                     906 W. Fairbanks Ave                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076477685   EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL What:             15th Annual show with the Flower Power Series nightly at 5:45, 7 & 8. When:            through June 1             Where:          Epcot                                     10000 Buena Vista Blvd.                                     Lake Buena Vista             Cost:              park admission $70 adults, $60 children   PAINT THE TOWN             What:             works from traditional to contemporary When:            through June 1   8am – 9pm             Where:          Orlando City Hall Terrace Gallery                                     400 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Free   PLAN AHEAD   POPCORN FLICKS             What:             Outdoor screening of Jailhouse Rock When:            May 8 – 8pm             Where:          Central Park                                     Park Ave.                                     Winter Park             Cost:              Free             Contact:        4076290054   ARMY OF HOPE             What:             gala and auction to benefit families of military casualties             When:            May 9 – 7pm             Where:          Global Gallery at the Plaza                                     183 S. Orange Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $100             Contact:        4075881260   ROBODOC             What:             Premiere screening of the Stephen Maddocks comedy             When             May 10 11pm             Where:          Hard Rock Live                                     Universal CityWalk                                     Orlando             Cost:              $35 advance tickets; $45 day of the show             Contact:        4073515483   SPRING JAZZ STROLL             When:            May 10 – 7PM             Where:          Harry P. Leu Gardens                                     1920 N. Forest Ave.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $17             Contact:        4072462620   ORANGE TREE ANTIQUES SHOW             When:            May 9 – noon 5pm                                     May 10 – 10am – 5pm                                     May 11 – 11am – 4pm             Where:          Maitland Civic Center                                     641 S. Maitland Ave                                     Maitland             Cost:              $4             Contact:        4076444547   ORLANDO FRINGE FESTIVAL             When:            May 15 26             Where:          Orlando Loch Haven Park                                     Mills & Princeton Aves.                                     Orlando             Cost:              Individual show admissions; Fringe Button $6             Contact:        4076480077   GREAT ORLANDO BEER FESTIVAL             When:            May 17             Where:          Downtown Orlando                                     42 W. Concord St.                                     Orlando             Cost:              $25 advance; $35 day of the event             Contact:        3212775079   ZELLWOOD CORN FESTIVAL             When:            May 24 – 25 – noon – 10pm             Where:          Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival Grounds                                     4253 W. Ponkan Road                                     Zellwood             Cost:              $25 – advance; $30 – at the gate; 12 & under free with a                                     paid adult             Contact:        4078860014       For information on Seminole County real estate and  Seminole County homes for sale in addition to  Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your  Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/What’s-Happening-in-Central-Florida--April-28-2008/8713/post_details/666/2008-04-28 15:25:10Yes, Orlando, it is time to get off of the fence and purchase a home.  Let me qualify that.  That is if it is within your means to do so financially.  The previous mentality that we’ve seen has hopefully stopped, but unfortunately, once things get better, people tend to forget.  Sad but true!  There have been several articles over the past week and half that I’ve read that have shown once again how Florida and especially Orlando have bucked the national trend in real estate.  According to NAR (the National Association of Realtors®), not only did the number of existing home sales dip 19.3% below the previous years sales in March, but they also slipped from February to March of this year.  Now, before I get into the Orlando numbers, I must state that there is some conflicting information.  While ORRA (the Orlando Regional Realtor Association) reported 1080 closed sales on April 14th for the previous month, in today’s Orlando Sentinel, it was reported at 1312 homes sold.  But even going with the lower figure, sales again increased from February to March as they also did from January to February.  I have to admit that at first I pleased with this trend, but was also a little skeptical.  Granted, it’s been a couple of months and January’s #’s were quite low.  The national median price is $200,700.  In Florida it is $205,600, which represents a 15% drop from the year before.  In Orlando, the median housing price is $220K, which is down $20K from or 8.3% from the same period the last two years and in fact is over the 2005 level by 8.2%.  In the big picture, that is not too shabby at all.  Remember, and I can’t stress this enough, real estate is a longterm investment.  Actually, let’s repeat that again – real estate is a longterm investment! Now back to the original premise of this article.  Consider the facts.  Interest rates are quite low and this is a buyer’s market where they tend to be much higher.  There are so many excellent properties to choose from that are priced correctly for today’s market.  I keep on hearing buyers are concerned and waiting for the prices to hit bottom.  Personally, I think this has occurred.  Now, while I may not be a seer or have a crystal ball, this is a quite educated stance.  If a funny thing, OK well may be not so funny, but people will wait for the prices to rise more and then by the time they get in the game they have risen even more.  Just look back over the past couple of years and you’ll see what I mean.  Many saw others getting into the market and making some money.  They figured that if they can do it, so should I, but they got in too late and are in many cases struggling with the properties that they’ve acquired.  Additionally, Orlando’s affordability index increased in March to 102.35.  That means that buyers earning the median income make 2.35% more than necessary to purchase a median priced home.  Orlando, get off the fence and start being realistic about our current market.   For information on Orange and Seminole County real estate and Orange and Seminole County homes for sale in addition to Orange and Seminole County relocation contact Marc Grossman, your Orange and Seminole County Realtor @ 4074631034.  Additional information is available for Seminole County real estate, Orange County real estate, West Volusia County and South Lake County. To learn more about Marc and the services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI    http://www.OrlandoHomes4u.com/    4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter. Marc It Sold!  http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Orlando-Step-Up-To-The-Plate--It’s-Time-To-Buy-Your-Next-Home!!/8713/post_details/643/2008-04-25 13:25:37...just like everyone else, one leg at a time!  There is definitely a perception and an assumption about realtors® in our society.  But then we do that with a lot of professions (lawyers, doctors, et al).  There are realtors®, in some eyes, that are elevated to some top levels and there are others that are denigrated to the lowest rungs on the totem pole, so to speak.    There is the perception that what we do is a simple task and that we make way too much money.  But, of course, it is not known by most what it costs us to perform the duties that are necessary to be successful.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for a licensed real estate sale agent is under $40K a year.  In fact, if you’d like to know about what it takes to be a realtor®, follow this link to their site http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos120.htm.  It’s quite informative.   As with every profession, we have all degrees of capacity.  Just as with any profession, there are better and then some that are just not up to par.  But do those professions acquire the stigma of those with lesser ability as does the real estate profession?  I think not, or at least not to the degree that the general public places on my chosen profession.    A realtor®, a true realtor® if there is such a term, is not out there to sell homes.  This person is there trying to help people achieve a goal achieve a dream in many instances.  We could be talking about the firsttime home buyer; someone who’s looking at upward mobility; even those that have been through life and have decided that it time to make a change and maybe downsize.  But they have a goal and it is our job to help them achieve this goal in the best and easiest possible fashion.    The following is my mission statement:  In working with a Seller to sell their property for more money net to them in less time with minimal inconvenience to their lifestyle.  In working with a Buyer to assist them in purchasing a property within their prescribed parameters with the experience being comfortable, exciting and fun for all those involved.  In fact my vision statement reads:  To make a difference to everyone I work with on a daily basis by adding value and quality to their lives through my knowledge, expertise and service.   Now, this may seem corny and canned to some, but to me it is not.  It is the essence of what I bring to the table.  It is me!  Forgive me, for this is not being written as a selfpromotion of myself.  I am not that egotistical, but there does need to be a change in attitude towards realtors®.  Additionally, this should not be perceived as a rant.  Moreso, I would prefer this to be considered somewhat of an education.    Perceptions and assumptions are found throughout our society.  It unfortunately is what drives too many people.  I can only gather to a point, that it is human nature of sorts because so many do it so often.  Yes, we do perceive things – we do have perceptions of things, we do have assumptions of certain people and industries.  But when you look at the whole picture, there should be no reason for this.    I saw a therapist once and he posed a question to me asking if I would be concerned about a person (maybe a little disheveled) coming towards me from the opposite direction.  My answer to him is what did that person do that should provoke that reaction in me.  No, I am surely not a polyanna, but why?  Has that person given me any reason to feel that way?  If not, then why should I have that perception?   There’s the old saying that you can a book by its cover.  We’ve all seen in our careers how often this can be untrue.  I’ve encountered people looking like schleps; and yet, they could buy and sell me.          What is a perception?  It is cognitive recognition utilizing the senses.  But it is not fact.     What is an assumption?  It means to take for granted without proof.    Can you see how dangerous these two concepts can be?   Someone told me a long time ago that the word ‘assume’ is made out of three words and as you look at it you might see them.  Obviously, I’m not going to decipher it right here.  But the fact of the matter is.  An assumption is a presupposition based on usually very little if any facts whatsoever.  And that is the issue right there.  If you had all of the facts, then you would have a clear definition.    Over 85% of all real estate transactions were performed with the use of a realtor®.  So why does the general public still try to denigrate this profession?  Look at the numbers, we must be doing something correct.    Your realtor® is a human being, with feelings and emotions like yourself.  They have lived through trials and tribulations – just like you!  They are no different than you, except for their chosen career, which requires constant education to the changing laws, contracts, market, economy, interest rates…  Do I need to go on?  A realtor® stands by a strict Code of Ethics.  Much more than most can surmise.    I won’t say that they deserve your respect, but they surely earn it day in and day out.  Respect as with anything else is a twoway street.  If you give it, it will come back to you. http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Realtors®-put-their-pants-on…/8713/post_details/617/2008-04-17 11:42:22Seminole County Florida's Natural Choice Seminole County is situated between Orlando's Central Business District, the Theme Parks and the Volusia beaches on the east coast.  The county can't be beat for accessibility to the best that Central Florida has to offer. Seminole County is one of the fastest growing counties in Florida.  It is a collection of comfortable bedroom communities with housing ranging in price from very affordable to among the most expensive in the area.  Seminole County has carefully protected its natural resources.  These include Lake Monroe and the scenic St. John's River, with its alligators and mossdraped cypress trees; Wekiva Springs State Park and the Central Florida Zoological Park, not to mention the many large lakes that dot the county.  There are parks that offer jogging trails, athletic fields, even a pet park and many miles of trails throughout the county.  For shopping there are three major indoor malls:  Altamonte Mall, Seminole Town Center and Oviedo Marketplace.  This is in addition to many other shopping areas and mixeduse developments. Seminole County is the home of the OrlandoSanford International Airport and the Amtrak Auto Train which originates in Lorton, VA.  The many cities of Seminole County include: Altamonte Springs Casselberry Lake Mary Longwood Oviedo Sanford Winter Springs   For more information on Central Florida & the Greater Orlando area including Seminole, Orange, West Volusia and South Lake Counties contact Marc Grossman @ 4074631034.  To learn more about Marc and services he has to offer, visit his profile & website.  Marc Grossman, GRI       www.OrlandoHomes4u.com        4074631034 Marc donates 10% of his net proceeds to Hospice of the Comforter.  http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/Seminole-County--Floridas-Natural-Choice/8713/post_details/131/2007-12-28 13:06:05My Bank Wants to Give Me An ARM I Guess They Want A Leg! This is amazing with all that's gone on within the mortgage industry.  I was just going through some mail that I'd put aside and there was a letter in there from a lender on one of my rental properties.  They wanted to offer to lower my monthly payment a little over $300.  The rate was going from 7.375% to a 6.746% APR.  OK, so what's the catch.  Well it appears that the actual rate is 5.875% and they wanted 1.605% points.  Right here I'm going to myself OK, so they're charging points looking to make some quick cash.  Everyone knows that points are just upfront interest.  So then I turn over the letter and look at the other side.  This is what it says: This loan is an adjustablerate mortgage which carries a fixed rate of interest for 10 years, and does NOT have negative amortization.  (Well that's a good thing at least.)  Interestonly payment is for the first 10 years of the loan term.  After the first 10 years, the payment will become fully amortized, paying both principal and interest for the remaining term.  The payment will adjust annually starting with the 11th year.  At least they added the following: Paying interest only will not reduce the outstanding balance of your loan and will increase the overall cost of the loan.  Your payment will increase substantially at the 11th year. Now the sad part is that many people will go for this because all they are looking at is the monthly payment.  Someone wrote in one of their posts that people are stupid.  I like to think better of people, but must admit that they are generally greedy.  Many will not even consider the consequences.  Many will not even read or care what the loan is about just that they've reduced their monthly payment albeit temporarily, but what the hey!  Till next time Marc It Sold!  http://www.classifiedflyerads.com/blog/My-Bank-Wants-to-Give-Me-An-ARM--I-Guess-They-Want-A-Leg!/8713/post_details/130/2007-12-28 13:04:51