Contents
Key Biscayne June 2014
08 | ONE WAY TICKET TO MARS On July 21, 1969 the Apollo 11 space flight took the first humans to the moon, with Neil Armstrong being the first to step on the lunar surface. Now, 45-years later, more than a thousand people are on the short list to go where no man, or woman, has gone before – to Mars. Also – if chosen – they’re not coming back.
06 |
THE FACEBOOK FACELIFT Sagging chins, tired eyes, a wrinkled brow or a large nose. These are but a few of the reasons more than $12-billion dollars was spent on cosmetic procedures in 2013. Doctors say the single biggest reason is that women and men want to look better in their social network pictures.
12 | ARE YOU READY FOR RETIREMENT?
According to the National Institute on Retirement Security, 45-percent of Americans do not have a 401K or IRA. And 66-percent of people near retirement age have no retirement savings at all. Financial planner Charles Sachs calls it a retirement crisis. If you’re under 50 some lifestyle changes could help you reach your financial goals for your retirement.
Special Sections
18 Health 28 Real Estate SPONSORED BY:
40 Home Improvement SPONSORED BY:
15 | TIPS FOR A SAFE SUMMER!
From free boating classes to getting ready for the hurricane season, Neighbors 4 Neighbors has important information and tips to keep you and your family safe this summer!
54 Marketplace 62 Automotive
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THE FACEBOOK
FACELIFT Rhiannon Ally Sagging chins, tired eyes, a wrinkled brow or a large nose. These are but a few of the reasons more than $12-billion dollars was spent on cosmetic procedures in 2013. “I was seeing a tired, old lady, who isn’t what I am,” explained Barbara Nohrenberg. Doctors say the single biggest reason is that women and men want to look better in their social network pictures. Barbara Nohrenberg isn’t shy about admitting that was her reason for having a facelift and a few other procedures.
“W
ell I’m out there as a realtor, as a single dating female in a very competitive dating market. I look in the mirror and I said you know, what I’m looking like now… isn’t really who I am anymore,” said Nohrenberg. So Barbara turned to Dr. Jacob Steiger, a Boca Raton based facial plastic surgeon. “I see this as a major trend because my specialty is the face,” said Steiger. “People are becoming more aware of their appearance because they are looking at themselves online.” As Barbara and Dr. Steiger reviewed her before and after pictures, Steiger explained why people are seeing things in a selfie they may not see in the mirror, mirror on the wall. “So some people when they look in the mirror they might see themselves at a straight on view, erect, in a nice position,” explained Steiger. “But when they’re looking at online media, when you’re taking pictures with your iPhone you’re kind of angling the camera a certain way… and sometimes you’re seeing imagesof yourself or angles of yourself you don’t normally see.” Barbara’s eyes and neck bothered the 62-year old the most. On the day we met, she was still healing, but proud to admit that her change was subtle enough not to draw attention. “Because I don’t have that, we call it the Boca windswept look (she pulls hers face back) you know where you look like you’re in a wind tunnel. It’s just me a little younger.” Until her healing is complete, Barbara is offline, but looking forward to new sites and new pics. “And I’m just waiting for the new me to emerge completely!” But if going under the knife is not your cup of tea, there are a handful of Apps that can make you look prettier, younger, even thinner. Susan Green is the co-founder of Skineepix. “I wanted it to almost be an instant photoshop,” said Green. With the swipe of a key, Skineepix and other apps will reduce your weight by 5, 10 even 15 pounds. “Even the most gorgeous women that I know have some small insecurity,” said Tara Prindaville. Some apps use facial recognition software to give you a more glowing complexion or to do things such as slim noses or fade freakles and wrinkles. Explained Tara, “It’s another app to help you feel more confident when you’re posting.” Whether you want to fake it while you Facebook or honestly be your new self in your next selfie, the price of the Apps isn’t free, but cosmetic surgery isn’t either. Most procedures will run you between $500 to $20,000.
“Some apps use facial recognition software to give you a more glowing complexion or to do things such as slim noses or fade freakles and wrinkles.”
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 9 ]
One Way Ticket:
Mission To
MARS Brian Andrews
On July 21, 1969 the Apollo 11 space flight took the first humans to the moon, with Neil Armstrong being the first to step on the lunar surface. In grainy black and white video images that somehow, in a miraculous feat of technology, beamed to Earth, Armstrong is shown stepping off the lunar module and apparently stumbling over his carefully predetermined words. One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” said Armstrong. He was inferred by Americans as brilliant and poignant prose. Now, 45-years later, more than a thousand people are on the short list to go where no man, or woman, has gone before – to Mars. Also – if chosen – they’re not coming back.
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“I’ll obviously miss my family, what’s great is there is communication. We can’t hug, but you know Skype is wonderful.”
M
ore than 200,000 people worldwide applied to be a part of a mission to colonize Mars. The Mars One organization said with conviction it’s going to happen, and finalists said they want to be on-board for a trip to Mars that will be their final destination. The red planet has a rocky surface and a thin atmosphere with little oxygen. The usual high is 70 degrees, and the low, an incomprehensible 243° below zero. What about those snow-capped mountains we’ve seen pictures of? That’s not snow at all but frozen carbon dioxide. “It’s terrifying, truthfully,” said Mars One candidate Stephanie Buck. Most would never visit, much less live where no human has set foot before. However, Buck and fellow candidate Kristin Richmond, a civil engineer with the state of California, have actually volunteered to do just that. “When I first told my parents I was applying their eyes bugged out of their heads,” said Richmond. “I don’t think anyone took it seriously,” said Buck. If the nonprofit group Mars One gets its way, a human settlement of Mars is right around the corner. The 200,000 applicants have been narrowed to about 1,000, including Buck and Richmond who still can’t believe they’re in the running.
“I got an email and I was going to 7-Eleven to get a cup of coffee and I’m standing in line and I look at my phone and my jaw dropped,” said Buck. “I thought, ‘whoa, this is serious,’” said Richmond. A lot has to happen before anyone begins to pack their bags. The plan is that in 2018 a communication satellite will be launched to prove technology can work properly when people arrive. In 2020, a Mars rover will be on its way to find the perfect location for the future settlement. Two years later, two living units, two life support systems, and two supply units will be sent out. A year later, by that time it will be 2023, four people will arrive to begin colonizing a foreign planet. “I’m so excited,” said Buck. “It’s kind of a nerd’s dream. Who would have thought that this would happen for an average person?” It may be a dream but there is a harsh reality, too. Colonizing a planet is a big job. “Growing food in small places, growing nutrients in small places with limited resources,” said Buck. “Resource management, solar power, life support systems, traveling farther into space,” said Richmond. And if they go, there’s no coming back. “You’re going to take a step in that direction and never go back, be miserable and hate the rest of your life because you’re stuck on Mars?” said Richmond. “Yeah I’ve thought about that.”
“I don’t know I mean if I’m being realistic. The odds are not very good but the odds were crazier for me to get this far, so anything is possible.”
“forever is a really long time,” said Buck. “It’s a pretty small space with three strangers.” And there are definite fears. “I don’t want to be just some dummy that got on TV, and blew themselves up,” said Buck. Richmond is married and though her husband declined an interview about his wife’s possible departure, she said he’s very supportive. The trip will also expose everything else most of us take for granted. “When you think about actually leaving earth there are those things you start to think about not just relationships with people, but air, the sound of fresh running water, wind through the trees, those are things you’ll never hear again,” said Richmond. Buck knows this trip means she’d never see her two teenage daughters in person ever again, but she said the opportunity is still one that she can’t pass up. “I’ll obviously miss my family, what’s great is there is communication. We can’t hug, but you know Skype is wonderful,” said Buck. Her daughters are very supportive. “I am so thrilled for her because I feel like this is
just so great for her,” said Buck’s daughter Lhiannan Buck-Gay. “I know her obsession with Sci-Fi and the need to explore, and how important that is for us.” So for now, the candidates wait for word of when they can pack their bags for the last time, breathing in the moments here on earth, and dreaming of the possibilities of life on another planet. “I’m just excited to see what my efforts toward this and the future can inspire in younger minds,” said Richmond. “I don’t know I mean if I’m being realistic. The odds are not very good but the odds were crazier for me to get this far, so anything is possible,” said Buck. The two are ready and waiting to take the next giant leap for mankind. Both Buck and Robinson must pass a physical exam in order to be considered for the next round. The group will eventually be to cut to just four who will make the first trip. Mars One officials will not comment on when they will let the women know if they’ve made the cut, but they do plan on making everything that happens on Mars viewable through a variety of media.
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Retirement 911: Are You Prepared? It’s Never Too Early To Start Eliott Rodriguez
Angela Velez works as a nail technician at leslie’s Nail Salon in Weston. Her husband, Roberto Mulieri is an architect with an office in Pembroke Pines. The couple, in their 50s, is planning for their Golden Years, looking forward to getting old together and retiring.
“I
love to travel,” angela saiD. “I want to be one of those old ladies that travels a lot.” The sad reality is that most people won’t have the savings for the type of retirement Angela dreams about. According to the National Institute on Retirement Security, 45-percent of Americans do not have a 401K or IRA. And 66-percent of people near retirement age have no retirement savings at all. Financial planner Charles Sachs calls it a retirement crisis. “The main issue here is having the dollars to make sure you can do the things you want to do when you retire,” Sachs said. “You are not going to be working so you will have to live off Social Security, your 401K and any other retirement account. There are so many people who aren’t saving up for retirement and don’t know how long they’ll live in retirement.” Charles Sachs paid a visit to Angela and Roberto to go over their retirement plans. While he found they are contributing to retirement accounts, he also thinks they can do better. He advises them to cut back on things like going out to dinner and taking family vacations. “They’re at a critical point in time,” Sachs said. “They need to put a certain amount of money away each month to hit their retirement goals. They have to learn how to budget and save. They have to commit to pay themselves first and put that money to work on a monthly basis for their retirement.” “The main issue Sachs advises clients to start saving early, here is having the putting away at least 10 percent of their salary. dollars to make By the time they’re ready for retirement, he sure you can do says they should have eight times their annual the things you income socked away. That’s a lot of money, but want to do when Sachs says you’ll need it. “Not only do you need the money, you’re you retire.” not going to make money and as you see with the price of movies or the cost of a postage stamp, prices are going up so you need the dollars to catch up to inflation,” he said. In order to avoid a retirement crisis, Jose and Angela say they’re already starting to change old habits. “We used to go out with friends and we would pick up the bill,” said Angela. “It’s a lot of money. The intentions are good but I don’t think we’ll be doing that again.”
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www.neighbors4neighbors.org
Summer is here and Neighbors 4 Neighbors wants you to Have a Safe Summer! From free boating classes to getting ready for the hurricane season, Neighbors 4 Neighbors has important information and tips to keep you and your family safe this summer! BOATING SAFETY
Neighbors 4 Neighbors wants to make sure you and your family are safe this summer with our “Have a Safe Summer” campaign. The weather is warmer and South Floridians are heading to the water to cool off! Florida is #1 in boating accidents and fatalities. Neighbors 4 Neighbors’ partner organization, The Monica Burguera Foundation, is committed to saving lives and making our waters safer for all by promoting watercraft safety and boater education. The Monica Burguera Foundation partners with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, to offer FREE boating safety classes throughout the year. The one-day classes, offered in English and Spanish, cover everything a boater needs to know about water safety: Introduction to boating, boat handling, boating problems, trailering, legal & state requirements, personal safety, navigation and more. To find out more about the program and classes log on to: www.monicaburguerafoundation.org
SUMMER FEEDING PROGRAM
The school year is almost over and along with the end of the school year will also be the end of free or reduced breakfasts and lunches for many children in South Florida. Neighbors 4 Neighbors is proud to partner with and promote the Summer Break Spot. A place where all students 18 and under can eat breakfast, snacks and lunch for free! For a list of locations, log on: http://www. summerfoodflorida.org/sites.html The Summer Break Spot is run by the Summer Food Service Program, federally funded by the United States Department of Agriculture. The intent is to bridge the gap in nutrition during the summer months. During the school year, many children receive free and reduced-price meals. When school lets out for the summer, many of these children are at risk of hunger or poor nutrition. The program was designed to ensure that children have access to the nutritious meals they need to grow, learn and play during the summer months and to help ensure their bodies and minds are healthy and strong for the upcoming school year.
HURRICANE SEASON
Neighbors 4 Neighbors was started in the wake of the devastation after Hurricane Andrew in 1992. At Neighbors 4 Neighbors, we know the importance of being prepared for the Hurricane Season. Does your family or business have an emergency plan? Have you or your family designated a meeting location in case a disaster strikes? Does your company have a remote back-up system? Do you know the evacuation routes? Do you have items for each member of your household from the disaster checklist? Don’t wait for disaster to strike. Now is the time to prepare. For more information and helpful tips to keep your family and your business safe this Hurricane Season, log on to: www.neighbors4neighbors.org and keep watching CBS4 News for the latest updates this hurricance season.
BACK-TO-SCHOOl
School will be out soon, but Neighbors 4 Neighbors is already gearing up for the new school year! In partnership with Broward Children’s Services Council, and the Kids 4 Kids Club, Neighbors 4 Neighbors is working to make sure that all south florida students go back to school with the supplies they need to start the school year for success. Last year, the back-to-school drives delivered backpacks and supplies to 4,600 kids. We need your help! Just $30 outfits a child for the entire year! Donate today at www.neighbors4neighbors.org. Broward recipients are identified by school social workers and the effort focuses on kids in unstable living conditions. The back-to-school extravaganza at the BB&T Center drew thousands of kids and parents who were treated to free haircuts, shoes, socks, uniforms, and backpacks filled with school supplies. In Miami Dade the focus was on children of farm workers. Six hundred backpacks filled with supplies were given out in addition to books and snacks.
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Hospitality School Breaks Through With
FIU BREW
lisa Petrillo
There is something brewing up at the FIU Chaplin School of Hospitality’s North Miami Campus, literally. The college is brewing their own beer, namely FIU Brew, in the newly opened Brew Science laboratory.
D
r. Barry gump is the Professor of Beverage Management at the school and head of the Brew Science Program. In a college atmosphere you can bet kids have lined up to sign up for this class. We fill the brewing classes every year. We’re now teaching two brewing classes a semester,” said Dr. Gump. Matthew Weintraub is a grad student in the brew program and now works at Schnebly Brewery when he’s not in school. “Originally you think about making beer and you want to enjoy it and make it for yourself,” said Weintraub. “Dr. Gump taught me how the science works and grew that passion from there.” The Brew Science Program is just that. Students learn everything from the science of making beer with ingredients like water, barley and hops to the fermentation process and finally carbonation. The bottles are recycled and every student
makes their own beer and creates their own labels. Every student also gets a taste test as a part of the research. “We will taste beer in every class because were exposing different students to different styles of beer and many of them never had anything but a typical America lager,” said Dr. Gump. The new lab is the direct result of fundraising efforts from The South Beach Wine and Food Festival. Yes, all those fancy parties led to a whole new facility at FIU. “The facility, in fact, all of the support service that we have here in our food and beverage operation comes from South Beach Wine and Food Festival,” said Mike Hampton, Dean of The School of Hospitality at FIU. “We’re indebted to The Chaplin family for their vision to help create one of most innovate research centers in the world.” For more information on the classes, including a “one night class only” program for non-students visit www. hospitality.fiu.edu
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HE ALTH
Remodel Your Mind
With BrainCore Therapy
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www.cbsmiami.com
People take medication every day for things like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Now, a new technique could make all of that go away. “BrainCore therapy is neuro-feedback,” explained Dr. Keri Chiappino, “Your brain is constantly being molded with a feedback mechanism, a positive reinforcement to show you that this is the proper brain wave pattern.”
I
n BrainCore therapy, patients manipulate the brightness of a video screen using their brain waves. Positive reinforcement for this type of therapy entails the brain waves making a video screen appear lighter, or keeping a roller coaster moving smoothly. Dr. Chiappino said that when patients concentrate on these activities their brains are able to establish new connections that can help break the cycle of depression, insomnia, and certain types of pain. Marilyn Sokol was having issues with mood, and had difficulty focusing and sleeping. Those problems prompted her to try BrainCore therapy. “I’m really sleeping and not getting up for any reason,” she said, “I was always a slow reader. I do believe that there has been an improvement.” Amie Nissenbaum thought that a non-invasive form of therapy might be able to help her 7-year-old daughter deal with emotional issues. “There were subtle differences, but then all of
a sudden I noticed we’re getting along so much better,” Nissenbaum said, “Socially she was able to deal with other kids.” Dr. Steven Wolf, explained that while this type of therapy may work for some patients others could see similar results through meditation or yoga. “If you find something that works for you to get some kind of mindfulness, some kind of meditation, some kind of biofeedback is wonderful, but you have to go to a doctor’s office to do it,” Dr. Wolf said. Dr. Chiappino said that changes in brain waves could produce big results. “Once we influence someone’s brain wave pattern then we’re able to effectively improve some symptoms that are associated with certain conditions,” she explained. Patients typically need about 30 hours of treatment to see changes in brain wave patterns and should check with their insurance providers to see if this type of treatment is covered.
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H E A LT H
How Dirty Are Your
Brian Andrews
Dog’s Kisses?
We’ve all gotten licks of love from our dogs. However, would you let your dog kiss you on the mouth? Urban legend has it that dog’s mouths are very clean. “That’s not true,” said Nova Southeastern University Microbiologist Dr. Julie Torruellas-Garcia.
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www.cbsmiami.com
S
aliva samples from dogs in Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach were sent to the lab to be tested. Based on the cultures that grew in the lab from the samples, Dr. Torruellas-Garcia said you may want to think twice before you and your dog exchange siliva. “There was quite a bit of bacteria that grew from the dogs’ mouths,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia. While our testing did not reveal the presence of any e-coli or bacteria that could cause a staph infection, Dr. Torruellas-Garcia and her students found globs of other microboes. “One plate had so many bacteria mixed together that it was difficult to test,” said Dr. TorruellasGarcia. In swabs taken from dogs in the West Palm Beach area, the testing found evidence of Nisseria, bacteria linked to STD’s, pneumonia and plaque. “Think about where a dog tends to lick, and consider he or she might have just licked before they
licked you,” said Dr. Torruellas-Garcia. After all, it’s not like a dog knows to wash hands or brush teeth. West Palm Beach Veterinarian Ken Simmons said not to worry though, all that bacteria doesn’t stay in a dog’s mouth for long. “It’s gone so fast, if they lick and groom themselves, whatever organisms they ingest, they’re gone in a matter of minutes,” said Simmons. If doggie breath bothers you, it may be time to take your dog for a dental cleaning. After all, if you didn’t take care of your teeth, your mouth would have the same problems. In the end, the testing didn’t reveal anything out of the ordinary. Dr. Simmons said it’s simply a matter of with what you are comfortable. “I don’t think it’s a great idea to french kiss a dog, but having a normal lick on the face is no more dangerous than a kiss from your spouse,” said Dr. Simmons.
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H E A LT H
The Doctor Will See You Now Go through the doors at Elite Health Medical Group and you”ll feel as if you’ve walked into a spa hotel!
Brian Andrews
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www.cbsmiami.com
At Executive Health, it looks like a luxurious living room, and Dr. Al Mitrani said that’s exactly what they’re aiming for. “We don’t have the typical buzzer with the sliding door. And the rest of the office is also designed in a manner so that it really doesn’t look like a doctor’s office and the patients love this.” The patients also love the time they get with the doctor, an hour for a first visit, half hour for a follow up. And all calls from patients are returned before anyone leaves at the end of the day. “We’re really practicing medicine the way it was practiced long ago, where physicians had great relationships with patients. The fee was paid by the patient,” explained Dr. Mitrani. It’s called “fee for service.” Think of that 70’s TV show Dr. Marcus Welby M.D. “I hope we’re as good as Dr. Welby was!” exclaimed Mitrani. A typical doctor’s visit at Executive Health will likely run under $400. This doesn’t replace your insurance, which you need to see a specialist or hospitalizations. It means your doctor is no longer dealing with insurance companies. You pay them and get a receipt, which you turn in to your insurance company and pocket whatever they reimburse. Another way doctors are changing the way they practice medicine is by going to the concierge model. “Our concierge program is $5,000 a year. It includes an executive wellness exam which has a value of about $3,500,” said Dr. Steve Schnur of Elite Health Medical Group. Dr. Steve Schnur may be the doctor to TV stars and famous athletes, but others such as Casey Rodriguez see the advantage in paying a yearly retainer to have access to a doctor 24/7 by text, cell phones, even hotel and house calls. “When I joined concierge, I was diagnosed with a thyroid problem one day and within 24-hours I was in with a specialist,” said Rodriguez.
That thyroid condition prompted Rodriguez and her family to retain Elite Health, in addition to their health insurance policy. “When it came down to it we really did not want to have to wait three months for an appointment. I didn’t want to wait two weeks to get my lab results. I didn’t want to need medication and have to wait three days to get into my appointment just so i could get a prescription written.” “You know one of the problems doctors have right now is they’re a mouse on a wheel. So they’re running, running, running, running. We need to change that model which is more based on quality of care not quantity of care,” insisted Dr. Schnur. Schnur, a cardiologist, does that he says, by focusing on wellness and prevention. “The insurance you have now is really insurance if you get sick. So it’s kind of a sickness plan,” Schnur said. Elite also has a $75 a month retainer for the less affluent, and also takes medicare and medicaid. Many doctors have been making the change to fee for service or concierge long before Obamacare. But both doctors we spoke with expect this trend to continue, until health insurance companies begin paying doctors for quality of care, not quantity of care.
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 25 ]
H E A LT H
• Heart Attack? • Stroke? • Blood Cloths? • Hypertension? “CBS4 News found that Androgel product information does mention blood clots and hypertension as side effects.”
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www.cbsmiami.com
Eliott Rodriguez
Are Low Testosterone Drugs Worth The Risks? For millions of men trying to fight the effects of aging, there’s a drug that claims to make you stronger, smarter, and more virile but is it worth the risk? An Androgel commercial and website encourage men to try testosterone replacement drugs.
“I
thought well it might be something good for me,” said Edward Downes. “So with that ya know I decided why not give it a shot.” But after about two years of using Androgel, 51year old Downes had a stroke, which he blames on the drug. “I was in a lot of pain, dizziness, confusion,” said Downes. He’s still struggling to recover and now plans to sue. Scott Levensten is Downes lawyer. “We believe there’s an egregious failure to warn in the package insert, in the television advertising and had Mr. Downes known of the risk of heart attack and stroke, he never would have taken this product.” Androgel defends its product saying it has “more than ten years of clinical, safety data.” And “the known therapeutic risks are well documented in prescribing labels.” CBS4 News found that Androgel product information does mention blood clots and hypertension as side effects. Recent studies have found that Androgel and other testosterone products doubled the risk of heart attack in men over 65 and in younger men with a history of heart disease possibly due to increased
production of red blood cells. “For the men who qualify, giving them testosterone has had a remarkable changes in their life,” said Dr. Paul Savage. “It’s not a super-drug. It needs to be carefully given to the appropriate patient,” insisted Dr. Daniel Yadagar, a cardiologist. He urges caution with hormone replacement therapy. “I’m looking at the other cardiovascular risk factors. Is this patient diabetic? Is this patient smoking, overweight and try to work on those modifiable risk factors,” said Yadagar. “I want them to stop prescribing it to anybody and everybody,” said Stephen Nichols, who used testosterone replacement therapy for years, even after he had a heart attack. “He kept prescribing it and I kept taking it,” said Nichols. Legal experts are calling for everything from placing warning labels on the box to pulling the product completely. Besides Androgel, there are at least eight other products named in lawsuits. The FDA has issued a statement about testosterone drugs saying it is now going to investigate the cardiovascular risks but it has not recommended that people stop using the products.
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Real Estate Sponsored By
Listings in this section are based on properties sold in previous months and retrieved from www.zillow.com. Not all properties sold are listed. Not responsible for typographical errors and/or omissions. Photographs are for illustration purposes only.
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10
Turn-Offs For Potential Buyers
As real estate markets continue to recover around the country, buyers are out in full force. Many of today’s buyers make judgments about homes within moments of seeing a listing online. They are also more cautious than before the housing crisis. They want to make sure they’re buying the best house and for the best amount of money. For sellers, that means giving buyers what they want. Though it’s a home first and foremost, it’s also an investment. If you’re planning to put your house on the market, here are ten ways you might be turning off potential buyers.
1. A garage turned into something else.
2. A bedroom turned into something else.
If you’ve sacrificed the garage for something other than the garage, the trade-off might actually be a turn-off, especially to people where parking is at a premium. Even in the suburbs, most people want a covered, secure place to park their cars. Don’t forget that a garage often doubles as a storage location. The garage houses everything from lawn mower to the excess paper towels and cleansers. If you convert your garage into something else, you’re likely to force a buyer to look elsewhere.
Aside from location, one of the first things a buyer searches for is number of bedrooms. Why? Because it’s an important requirement. You might think having a wine cellar, with built-in refrigerators, in your home will make it attractive to potential buyers because it was attractive to you. And while it’s true many people work from home today at least part of the time, that doesn’t mean they want a dedicated home office— especially one with built-in desks or bookcases that would need to be removed. If you must convert a bedroom into something else, make sure you can easily convert it back into a bedroom when you go to sell.
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R ea l Estate Content provided by www.Zillow.com
4. Over-the-top lighting fixtures. A beautiful chandelier can enliven a dining room. But it can also turn off buyers who prefer simpler, less ornate lighting fixtures. Did you fall in love with a dark light fixture on a trip to Casablanca? That’s great. And you should use it for your own enjoyment. But when it comes time to sell, replace it with something more neutral.
3. Carpet over hardwood floors. Many people today like hardwood floors. They are cleaner looking, add a design element, don’t show dirt as much, and they’re definitely preferred over carpets for people with allergies. If you have nice hardwood floors, show them off. Let the buyer decide if he or she wants to cover them. It’s easier for a buyer to purchase new carpeting of their choosing than it is for them to get past yours.
5. The kid’s room that is a miniature theme park. Little kids have big imaginations. They tend to love Disney characters, spaceships, super heroes, and such, and their parents are often all-too-willing to turn their rooms into fantasy caves. But the more you transform a kid’s bedroom into something resembling a Disneyland ride, the more you’ll turn off most potential buyers. Your buyer might have teenage children who will see the removal of wallpaper, paint or little-kid-inspired light fixtures as work. If you can, neutralize the kid’s rooms before you go on the market.
6. An above-ground pool. Does it get hot in the summers where you live? Wish you had a backyard pool but can’t afford to have a ‘real’ pool installed? Then you might be tempted to buy and set up an above-ground pool. For most potential buyers, though, these pools are an eyesore. Also, an above-ground pool can leave a big dead spot of grass in your backyard — another eyesore. If you must have it, consider dismantling it before going on the market. Of course, be sure you’re really ready to sell or you may be stuck without a place to cool off next summer.
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Real Estate
Sold Properties in Key Biscayne
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575 Crandon Blvd, Apt 605, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
425 Ridgewood Rd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
225 Cranwood Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
2 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,311 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1975 Sold: 5/5/2014 | $500,000
3 Beds / 1 Bath | 1,165 sq. ft. | 7,661 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 5/1/2014 | $1,100,000
3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,749 sq. ft. | 7,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1953 Sold: 4/23/2014 | $1,500,000
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401 Woodcrest Rd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 4 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,780 sq. ft. 8,240 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 5/1/2014 | $1,400,000
[ 34 ] June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
Content provided by www.Zillow.com
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201 Buttonwood Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
271 Greenwood Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
685 Allendale Rd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,938 sq. ft. | 7,752 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1957 Sold: 5/2/2014 | $1,550,000
5 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,540 sq. ft. | 7,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1954 Sold: 4/28/2014 | $1,800,000
4 Beds / 4 Bath | 3,243 sq. ft. | 9,439 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 4/28/2014 | $2,100,000
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520 S Mashta Dr, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 3 Beds / 4 Bath | 3,630 sq. ft. 0.51 acre Lot | Built in: 1961 Sold: 4/23/2014 | $8,700,000
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 35 ]
Real Estate
Luxury Properties Sold in Miami-Dade County
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115 Ocean Blvd, Golden Beach, FL 33160
540 Casuarina Concourse, Coral Gables, FL 33143
6 Beds / 7 Bath | 8,498 sq. ft. | 0.98 acre Lot | Built in: 1936 Sold: 5/4/2014 | $12,000,000
4 Beds / 4 Bath | 4,276 sq. ft. | 2.49 acre Lot | Built in: 1963 Sold: 4/28/2014 | $11,500,000
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6959 Sunrise Dr, Coral Gables, FL 33133
1821 W 24th St, Miami Beach, FL 33140
6 Beds / 7 Bath | 8,111 sq. ft. | 0.38 acre Lot | Built in: 2005 Sold: 5/2/2014 | $7,250,000
6 Beds / 7 Bath | 5,832 sq. ft. | 0.3 acre Lot | Built in: 1936 Sold: 4/24/2014 | $5,500,000
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1330 S Venetian Way, Miami Beach, FL 33139
3528 Bayshore Villas Dr, Coconut Grove, FL 33133
3 Beds /4 Bath | 3,922 sq. ft. | 0.28 acre Lot | Built in: 1946 Sold: 4/28/2014 | $4,500,000
4 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 8,347 sq. ft. | n/a Lot | Built in: 1990 Sold: 5/2/2014 | $4,150,000
[ 36 ] June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
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614 NE 26th Ter, Miami, FL 33137
280 Las Brisas Ct, Coral Gables, FL 33143
3 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,026 sq. ft. | 7,040 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1934 Sold: 4/22/2014 | $4,000,000
6 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 7,313 sq. ft. | 0.47 acre Lot | Built in: 2007 Sold: 5/1/2014 | $3,900,000
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4510 Granada Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33146
9026 SW 59th Ct, Miami, FL 33156
7 Beds / 7.5 Bath | 6,602 sq. ft. | 0.46 acre Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 5/6/2014 | $3,500,000
7 Beds / 8.5 Bath | 8,687 sq. ft. | 0.85 acre Lot | Built in: 2003 Sold: 5/5/2014 | $3,450,000
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700 88th St, Surfside, FL 33154
1290 NE 83rd St, Miami, FL 33138
4 Beds / 4 Bath | 3,226 sq. ft. | 0.69 acre Lot | Built in: 1955 Sold: 5/2/2014 | $3,200,000
5 Beds / 8 Bath | 6,255 sq. ft. | 0.62 acre Lot | Built in: 1974 Sold: 4/28/2014 | $3,000,000
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June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 37 ]
R ea l Estate Content provided by www.Zillow.com
7. An in-ground pool. You might assume that a gorgeous backyard pool will make a splash with potential buyers. Except in warm climates, where pools are truly an important amenity, many people see a backyard pool as a huge maintenance issue — not to mention a liability. If you live in an area where pools aren’t that common, seriously consider your decision. If you’re planning to be in the home for the long haul and you’ll get lots of use out of it, go for it.
8. Avocado-green kitchen fixtures. If your home is decades old and the kitchen looks like something from The Brady Bunch, consider investing in a quick once-over. Some new stainless steel appliances and granite countertops can be installed in no time and the cost and hassle is a lot less than you think. More buyers prefer to move right in. Do the work for them and you increase your bottom line.
9. Cigarette smell through the house. Over time, the smell of smoke permeates your home. It gets into the carpet, drapes, wood paneling, just about everywhere — a big turnoff to most buyers today. Getting rid of the smoke smell can be a big job. If you’re a smoker, seriously consider how you want to present your home to the market. For a long- term smoke-filled home, it means new paint, removing carpets and doing lots of deep cleaning.
10. Keep Fido’s bed and toys front and center Let’s face it; family pets bring a lot of joy to the home. But, they don’t always bring the same joy to a prospective buyer. Dog’s toys, filled with saliva, dirt and dust can be a sore both for the eyes and the nose. If you have a pet, put a plan in place to move the food and water bowls as well as the toys and dog’s bed to a better location, like the garage. Homes that smell and show like animals can scare buyers off.
It’s Your Home — For Now. Part of the joy of owning a home is that you can do whatever you want with it, to it, and in it. You should enjoy it. But if you want to sell it easily and for top dollar down the road, try to picture how others might react to any renovations, additions or modifications you make. The more specific you get — such as turning your kid’s room into a miniature castle from Cinderella — the harder it will be to sell your home later, and the less return on investment you’ll get. When considering changes to your home, always consider resale.
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 39 ]
HOME IMPROVEMENT
[ 42 ] June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
Content provided by www.habify.com
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 43 ]
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H O M E I M PR OV E M E N T Content Provided by www.lowes.com
How To Paint Anything Need to give something new life on a budget? Do it with paint! Follow this guide for adding a fresh coat of paint to almost any material. Paint Metal Supplies: Wire brush, Spray primer, Spray paint, Paint triangles, Rags, Rubber gloves.
Prep: Use a wire brush to remove loose paint. Wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately. If rust is present, spot-prime with a rust-inhibitive primer. Items like the bowl above may not need any surface prep.
Painting: Put on rubber gloves. Apply primer using a light back-and-forth motion. Make sure all surfaces are covered. Let dry, then spray the desired color using a light, sweeping motion.
Tips: Valspar spray paint has new easy-spray technology and a redesigned spray head that's cleaner and easier to use than those found on other brands. Use paint pyramids to keep projects from sticking to the prep area.
Paint Wicker Supplies: Vacuum with utensils or stiff paintbrush Latex paint Spray paint (if applicable) and primer Small brush or foam brush
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 45 ]
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Prep:
Paint Wood
If old and painted, first wipe surfaces with a damp rag. Then use the upholstery tool to vacuum wicker or wovens. A stiff brush can do the trick as well.
Supplies:
Dab paint on the woven strands of a basket to stripe them. On pre-painted wicker, spray with primer and let dry; then apply spray paint. Repeat with a second coat if needed.
150-grit sandpaper Household detergent Rags Wood putty High-gloss paint Primer/sealer Small Roller
Tips:
Prep:
Woven baskets can be spray-painted if you want a solid color all over.
Wipe off dirt and grime with a wet cloth; let dry. Sand as needed. Fill holes with wood putty, let dry, then sand until smooth and wipe clean.
Painting:
Paint Ceramic Supplies: Spray paint primer Spray paint Rubber gloves Kraft paper, newspaper, or drop cloth Paint triangles
Painting: Prime, then let dry. Sand and apply two coats of paint to add durability.
Tips: To get smooth results when painting flat wood surfaces, lots of pros swear by a small paint roller. Do a light sand between coats once the first coat dries and wipe clean with a dry cloth.
Prep: Wash in soapy water and then let air dry -- using a towel or other material to dry can leave lint on the piece.
Painting: Put on rubber gloves. Apply spray primer using a light back-and-forth motion about 1 foot from the object. Make sure all surfaces are painted; let dry. Then spray the desired color repeating the same technique.
Tips: Go slow and apply light coats when spraying. If you spray too fast -- or get too close -- drips and runs will occur. Use paint pyramids (#232223) to keep projects from sticking to the prep area.
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 47 ]
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Paint Fabric Supplies: Painter's tape Water-base paint Small brush or foam brush Stamp, if applicable
Prep: Wash fabric, if possible, without adding fabric softener. Cover your work surface, such as an ironing board or old towel, with plastic. Stretch and pin fabric tight to the surface.
Painting: To lay out your template or pattern, use painter's tape. Paint the fabric using a small brush, foam brush, or stamp.
Tips: Iron the fabric before painting. If you have scraps, first test your techniques and colors to ensure quality. For pillow covers, cut a cardboard insert and put it inside to keep paint from bleeding through.
Paint Wallpaper Supplies: Latex paint Paint roller Paint tray Paintable wallpaper Painter's tape Small paintbrush or edger
Prep: Apply according to directions. Printable wallpaper doesn't need to be primed -- it's ready to go.
Painting: Apply paint using a roller. If painting a wall, use a small paintbrush or edger to get into the corners and edges. Let the first coat dry for 4 hours. Allow the second coat to dry for 30 minutes before lifting off the painter's tape.
Tips: Paintable wallpaper is great to use on walls or ceilings that are less than perfect. It hides lots of flaws and comes in architectural designs and great patterns, such as beadboard.
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 49 ]
H O M E I M PR OV E M E N T
How To Choose
The Right Fence For Your Home
There are several reasons to put up a fence: privacy, borders, and architectural enhancement to name a few. No matter the reason, there's a fence system to suit your home and landscape. From chain-link fencing to electronic pet containment, use our guide to decide which fence system fits your needs.
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Wood Panel Fencing Wood panel fencing is commonly used as a decorative means of providing privacy for homes in neighborhood settings. It's also a good choice for setting boundaries for small children and pets. The wood fence panels usually come in 6- or 8-foot sections, 4 to 6 feet tall. The panels are available with either dog-eared or pointed pickets. Paint or stain your fence to match your landscape or keep them natural. The panels are pressure-treated for above-ground use and pre-assembled for faster installation. Composite fencing is an alternative to wood. It's made from recycled wood and plastic and offers lower maintenance with the look of real wood.
Post-and-Rail Fencing Split Rail (or Post-and-Rail) fencing adds a rustic or country look to a home’s landscape. Use this fence to define specific areas in your yard or provide an easily visible separation along property lines. The rails are available either split or round in lengths from 8 to 11 feet. The two-rail posts range from 3 to 5 feet above ground.
Vinyl Fencing Vinyl fencing is an attractive, relatively maintenance-free type of fencing. It’s available in forms similar to both wood panel and rail fencing. Vinyl fencing isn’t subject to rot, fading or other effects of weather and time as wood fencing. Vinyl is a good choice for an attractive, easily maintained fence system.
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 51 ]
H O M E I M PR OV E M E N T
Decorative Metal Fencing Decorative metal fencing offers the appearance of wrought iron, yet is made from powder-coated steel or aluminum. Available in a variety of styles and sizes, the components are easy to assemble, making this type of fencing a great do-it-yourself project. For ultimate ease of installation, look for fencing with a "no dig" option, using a pronged post support that is driven into the ground.
Chain-Link Fencing Chain-link fencing (sometimes called hurricane fencing) is an economical way to enclose an area. Chain link is a good choice for keeping pets in or other creatures out. Made from galvanized steel wire, the fence material itself is referred to as “fabric.” Chain-link fencing comes in 50 foot length rolls 3 to 12 feet in height. If you don’t like the silvery look of the bare fence, it’s available with a weather-resistant vinyl coating, usually green or black. Single and double prefabricated gates are available to complete the project.
Garden and Utility Fencing Garden and utility fencing is normally used to contain pets or to keep animals out of gardens. The material is available in rolls two to four feet high and up to 150 feet in length. Like chain-link fencing, it’s also available with a vinyl coating, usually green or brown. When used with rail fencing, welded wire makes an effective pet containment fence for large areas. Poultry netting, or chicken wire, may be the most economical type of containment fence available. As the name implies, it’s generally used to fence in chickens. It’s also a good choice for small dogs, rabbits and other small pets.
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Farm Fencing Farm fencing includes pre-fabricated gates and panels, heavier gauge galvanized welded wire and barbed wire. It’s primarily used for feedlots, pens, corrals or pastures for larger animals.
Electric Fencing Electric fencing is normally used to contain livestock. With low-output chargers, electric fencing is also used in residential settings to keep animals out of gardens. Chargers are powered by regular AC current or solar energy.
Electronic Pet Fencing Electronic pet containment fencing is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a pet containment solution without any visible sign of a fence. The system consists of a thin gauge wire, a transmitter and a collar. Form the fence into any shape you want, to conform to your property. Put the collar on your pet, and if it gets close to the fence’s perimeter, the pet receives a warning signal through the collar. Wireless transmitters are also available.
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 53 ]
MARKE TPL ACE
[ 56 ] June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
www.cbsmiami.com
Fighting The Switch?
David Sutta
The Smart Meter Controversy Susan Blake said it started with a bang, Florida Power and Light employees were outside her house shoving a crowbar into her power meter. “They were trying to unlock the meter because the meter had a lock on it. And they couldn’t do it,” Blake said. They eventually got it off, replacing it with something that looked high-tech. She soon learned it was a smart meter. “I talk to people every day and they are not aware they have a smart meter. They don’t even have a clue,” Blake said. If she hadn’t heard the commotion that day she wouldn’t have known either. You can think of the smart meter like a cell phone. Your meter now beams energy readings multiple times a day directly to FPL. Meter readers, that person who visited your house monthly, are history. Margie Sweezer-Fisher, FPL’s Reliability manager of grid automation, showed CBS4 how it works.
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n front a of television screen, she worked her way around a map. They could literally see wherever crew was working and every meter is running. Sweezer-Fisher could click on a house and instantly pull-up information on that home including whether the power was on and how much was being used. “The smart meters will now send that message to us automatically. So as soon as the power goes out, it actually sends us the message and says the power is out at this customer,” she explained. FPL says the technology will restore power faster–perhaps even work to prevent outages. David McDermott, FPL’s spokesman added, “Since 2009 we have installed 4.9 million smart meters.” That amount is pretty much all of Florida. By using the new meters FPL can see how much
power your using any given week, day, hour. It’s so smart, they can predict what next month’s bill will be. “It is fabulous cutting-edge technology that is producing real benefits for our customers,” McDermott added. A customer could actually pull up their bill and see how they use power in detail. Whether they could actually save money with the detailed knowledge remains to be seen. Blake doesn’t feel that it’s a benefit for her. “I just feel that the communication is not a good thing for the environment. It’s not a good thing for people’s health,” Blake told CBS4. Experts and professors from around the world have raised concerns over the meters—particularly the radio frequencies they use to transmit your data. A list of 50 prominent scientists wrote a letter saying
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 57 ]
M A R K E T PL AC E the area needs more study. To that McDermott fired back, “I can tell you this. There is no credible science that points to a connection between smart meters and adverse health effects.” Materials provided by FPL write the radio frequencies off, saying they are substantially lower than a cell phone, TV remote, garage opener. There is another aspect to smart meters that needs to be considered. Michael Scheidell, a information technology security consultant, operates Security Privateers. CBS4 asked him if smart meters were safer than the old fashioned ones. He pondered for a few seconds saying aloud “Is it safer?” He then answers “No.” Sure the old meter reader version of things had security issues as well. Scheidell believes technology may pose a greater threat. “If someone decides there is way to profit from hacking these meters or reading these meters, then they are going to do it.” He also said it wouldn’t take much to make that hack. “Yeah you can probably buy
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devices on Amazon.com and buy devices in order to intercept these.” What could someone do with your smart meter info? Hourly upJune 2014s on your energy consumption patterns could be quite useful to a thief, Scheidell explained. “When I go to work, when I come home from work, when I go on vacation,” Scheidell said. McDermott countered that they have the best security in the world. “Along with all the banks and the credit card companies we have used the best technology to preserve the privacy of customer information,” McDermott said. So while FPL says you have nothing to worry about, the hacking community is all over it. A quick search of YouTube and you’ll find a five part series on how to do—and this was done years ago. No one really knows what hackers are capable of now. Scheidell added, “Automation is something that is going to save us a lot of time and trouble. Allow us
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to do more. Well the hackers have found a way to do more. There are hackers in Russia who found out how to steal 40 million credit card numbers from Target— and they didn’t even have to set foot in America to do it.” Blake isn’t taking any chances. If they say it’s perfectly safe, isn’t it? “They say that it’s perfectly safe in their material but a lot of other people say it’s not safe.” Blake said. For health and security reasons Blake chose to dump the smart meter and get the old school one back. This Spring FPL told her the choice will cost her. She pulls out a piece of paper with notes scribbled all over it. “This is the letter that they sent out,” she said. Blake, along with 22,000 customers with the old meters, are being asked to pay a $95 enrollment fee and then $13 a month service charge. “I think it’s very unfair,” Blake said. McDermott countered, “In our mind it would not be fair to the fast majority of our customers, the 99.5 percent of our customers who have a smart meter,
we would not to require them to pay for that small percentage who have chosen to use an old technology meter.” Again Blake disagrees. “That’s the cost of doing business. So if they have to put in a super-sized transformer do they charge the neighborhood, per resident, for that transformer? Because it’s a supersized for that area?” The fees are working for FPL. Eighty-percent of those who received the letter about them have opted for smart meters. “They do have a choice. They just have to pay for it,” McDermott said. But Blake says she’ll pay. “I’m against the fee altogether. I think it’s outrageous.” Blake, along with a number of other FPL customers, has complained to the public service commission, which oversees FPL. It’s unclear, however, if they’ll do anything about it. The commission approved the smart meters and the new fees being charged to keep the old meters.
Offering the perfect combination of design, function and elegance for 48 years.
4797 SW 8th Street • Miami, Florida 33134 • Tel: 305.448.2639
www.FloridianFurniture.com
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 59 ]
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M A R K E T PL AC E www.cbsmiami.com
Brian Andrews
Mobile Shopping App Helps With
‘The Hunt’ For Fashion
Plenty of people, while browsing social media sites like Instagram and Facebook, will spot someone wearing an outfit they may like–but have no way of finding out where they can find it for themselves. A website and mobile application called The Hunt is helping these fashionistas by changing the way the online community shops.
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t two years old, The Hunt continues to gain praise and popularity by allowing the online community to assist each other in the search for their desired items. “The basic concept is that, when you are browsing Instagram, or Tumblr, or Pinterest, or Facebook, and all the time, we see photos of other people whose outfits you might want to wear,” said CEO Tim Weingarten. The way it works is fairly simple. If you have a picture of a particular item, with no clue where to shop for it, you can upload the picture to The Hunt. The next step involves fellow online shoppers and enthusiasts with similar interests, some of whom may have more knowledge of the item, who helpyou solve your search, or your “hunt”, by posting links to places where your item can be found. The folks who take part in assisting in your search may have knowledge of the item, and wish to help out a fellow shopper, or they may just simply enjoy the challenge. “The most exciting thing for me is the overall challenge,” said user Allie Tuazon. “It’s pretty much like a game.”
With so many people “hunting” at any given moment, it is also an effective way of meeting and cooperating with people who have similar interests. “People are very geographically dispersed, and they are able to make these connections with someone that they might not have otherwise known,” said Sara Brooks. “We see that people aren’t necessarily shopping with their friends; they are shopping with their best friends, and keeping this as a secret.” Additionally, The Hunt allows the user to control how much he or she wishes to spend. Parents are using the app as a tool to save time while going about their shopping. “I told them that my budget was under a hundred dollars,” said mother Rachel Talbott. “So the community went to work, and found them for me for all different prices. You see things all the time on social platforms, where you’re like ‘where are these shoes from,’ and you can put it on The Hunt and the community helps find it for you.” For more information about how you can start using The Hunt, visit their website or download the iPhone app for free.
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 61 ]
M A R K E T PL AC E
You’ll Never Run Out Of Gas Again A New Product Can Guarantee it! Running on empty and worried you’re not going to make it to the gas station? Many of us have found ourselves coasting on fumes, hoping we get to where we are going before the car runs out of gas. While storing a can full of gas in your trunk isn’t safe or legal in most states, an inventor from New York has come up with the next best thing.
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It’s called Magic Tank, and starting this summer, Steve Bistritzky says he’s revolutionary product will be available for sale at automotive stores in South Florida. “No one wants to be stranded,” said Bistritzky. “What about your wife, or significant other, or your parents, or your teenage kid who doesn’t have enough money in his pocket and figures dad will fill it up later?” Magic Tank is a half-gallon of roadside rescue in a white plastic bottle that you keep in your trunk. “This is a ‘what if’ situation,” said Bistritzky. “It’s an emergency insurance policy.” Steve says chemical engineers have removed all the highly flammable elements that make up gasoline for the product. It’s combustible, but doesn’t catch fire. CBS tested the product in both New York and Pittsburgh. After running a car down to the point of a stall out, Magic Tank was poured into the empty tank, and the car ran just finer for another 20 to 30 miles, more than plenty to reach the nearest gas station. Magic Tank has reached agreement with several national chains to distribute the product nationwide. You can expect to start seeing it in South Florida later this summer. For now, you can find it online at mymagictank.com.
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AUTOMOTIVE
8to Buying Steps a New Car
Follow This Route for Car Buying That's Fast and Even Fun [ 64 ] June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
Content provided by www.edmunds.com
The following steps will show you how to locate, price and negotiate to buy the new car you want. Using this information could save you thousands of dollars on a new car and make the process quicker and enjoyable. It also puts you in charge of the deal-making process — and that feeling of empowerment is a good one. But first things first: You need to decide what car you want to buy.
Step 1: Get Approved for a Car Loan
Step 3: Locate Your New Car
A powerful first step in the car buying process is to get approved for a loan. Getting approved for a loan from a bank, credit union or online lender will show you what interest rate you qualify for. If the interest rate offered is unexpectedly high, you will know that there are problems with your credit history that need to be resolved before you move forward. Getting approved in advance will also mean you can negotiate at the dealership as a cash buyer, which is much easier. You can still accept dealership financing, but getting approved before you even walk into the dealership will be the bargaining chip to get you the best interest rate.
As you search for your car, keep in mind that the more flexible you can be about options and color, the wider the range of the vehicles you'll find for sale. Being flexible will also give you more leverage to negotiate a better price, since you are not emotionally connected to one specific car. On the Edmunds.com home page, select the make, model and year of the car you want. You'll then get a page that displays several actual cars for sale in your area, along with Price Promise offers (more about Price Promise in the next step). Click on the link "Find Cars for Sale Near You" in the upper half of the screen. You then will make selections about options and color to get a more complete list of matching cars available for sale. Once you find the exact car you want, the next step will be to contact the dealership.
Step 2: Price Your Car and Your Trade-in Everyone knows that the price of a new car is usually negotiable. But how much of a discount can you expect? Edmunds.com's True Market Value (TMVÂŽ) pricing uses actual sales figures to reveal the average price buyers are paying for cars in your area. Edmunds TMV adjusts the price for other factors including incentives, options and color. Using Edmunds TMV, you can see the price of the car you want to buy, and also the price of your trade-in, if you have one. Choose the make, model and year of the car you want to appraise and follow the prompts. TMV adjusts the new car price for the available incentives. TMV for your used car shows the current market value if you sell it to a private party or trade it in at the dealership. While TMV already factors in incentives, it is also possible to separately review the latest incentives and rebates available for all new cars. Perhaps you'll find an even better bargain on a new car you had not considered.
Step 4: Use Price Promise and Dealership Internet Departments Now that you are approaching the deal-making phase of the process, here's more about a good pathway for buying a new car: the Edmunds.com Price Promise program. It assures car shoppers a guaranteed, up-front price on a specific car. Look for Price Promise offers on the car of your choice, print out the certificate on the page and you are ready to go to the dealership to conclude the deal. It's a good idea to call ahead and make sure the car is still available. If there's no Price Promise offer on a car you want, shopping through a dealership's Internet department will save you time and money. You can easily communicate with the Internet manager by phone or e-mail. We know that many people are drawn to the
June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 65 ]
AU TO M OT I V E
Content provided by www.edmunds.com
traditional way of car buying: visiting showrooms right off the bat. If you go this route, you should assess the car salesperson who is working with you before moving forward. Ask yourself if you feel comfortable and sense that you can trust this person. If you do feel comfortable, set up a time to test-drive the car if you haven't already done so. (It's a key step in finding the car that's right for you.) Before you head to the dealership, review all your notes and bring them with you.
Step 5: Try Negotiating a Lower Price Price Promise offers are usually below Edmunds TMV. But if you think you can negotiate an even better deal, you have another option: Request Internet price quotes from at least three local dealers. Take the lowest price, call the other dealerships and say, "If you beat this price, I'll buy it from you." The dealer almost certainly will give you a better price. Some shoppers find this time-consuming and stressful, so consider whether the potential savings are worth the time and effort. It's good to remember that a good deal isn't just the lowest selling price. It's a combination of the most streamlined, enjoyable shopping experience and the lowest total out-thedoor cost.
Step 6: Review New Car Fees and Check Dealer Financing Besides the cost of the car, you have to pay sales tax, registry fees and a documentation, or "doc" fee. You can estimate these extras using Edmunds' Monthly Loan Payment Calculator. Now ask the Internet sales manager or the dealership's Price Promise contact to supply a breakdown of all the fees, or a "worksheet," which lists the purchase price, the vehicle's invoice and all related fees. Review the figures carefully before signing the sales contract. Back in Step One, you were pre-approved for financing. But who knows? Maybe you can get an even better interest rate at the dealership. To see if that's possible, you can let the dealership run a credit report and assess what interest rate you qualify for. If it is lower than your pre-approved loan, go for it. If not, you already have a good loan locked in. If the price, financing and fees look right, it's nearly time to say yes to the deal. But before you do, consider making the sale contingent on having your new car delivered to your home or office. This is a
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great time saver and allows you to close the deal in a relaxed environment.
Step 7: Sign the Paperwork This step will take place at your home if you have the dealership deliver the car, or at the dealership if you prefer to pick it up there. Either way, make sure there are no dents or scratches on the body or the wheels. Check that all the equipment is included, such as floor mats, owner's manuals and rear-seat DVD headphones. Your new car should also come with a full tank of gas. If anything is missing or needs repair, ask for a "Due Bill" that puts this in writing. In cases of home delivery, the salesperson arrives with all the necessary paperwork. If you opt to pick up your car at the dealership, you will sign paperwork in the finance and insurance office, where the finance manager may try to sell you additional items. These typically include extended warranties, fabric protection or additional alarm systems. These extras can often be purchased elsewhere for less. One product that can have real value is an extended auto warranty, which provides peace of mind to many buyers and could save you money in the long run. Remember, though, that its price also is negotiable and you can always buy it later. Review the contract carefully and make sure the numbers match the worksheet and that there are no additional charges or fees. A good finance manager will explain each form and what it means. Don't hurry. Buying a car is a serious commitment. And remember, there is no cooling-off period. Once you sign the contract, the car is yours.
Step 8: Take Delivery of Your New Car You are probably eager to begin driving your new car. But this is an important step: Let the salesperson give you a tour of your new car. This could include showing you how to connect your smartphone to the car's Bluetooth system and learning how to use other important features and safety devices. Yes, you can review all this in the manual later, but it's quite helpful to get a hands-on demonstration. If you don't have time for a complete demonstration when you sign the contract, ask to visit the dealership a week later for this important step. As you drive away, there is only one more thing to do: Enjoy your new car.
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June 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 67 ]