K EY B IS C AY NE
Contents 06
September 2014
RAISING THE BAR:
Irika Sargent The life lessons and practical experience that make her the consummate journalist It’s apparent from watching her work that Irika Sargent is a consummate professional, whose passion for journalism always finds her going the extra distance to report the news that affects the community. Indeed, as the co-anchor of CBS4’s 5 and 11 pm newscasts, she draws not only on her reporting skills, but from the additional insights she gained from her law school education and the inspiration provided to her by her parents.
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Use The Connecting Power Of N4n To Host A Successful Halloween costume drive this year Organizing your own Costume Drive can be simple, easy and fun! You can get your family, co-workers and friends involved in making this holiday season a little brighter for low-income families in our community.
[ 6 ] September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
18 | Health
Section Sponsored by:
• Is it possible to be healthy while eating fast food? • Experts: food allergies are skyrocketing • Dangers of pain killers: a warning from consumer reports
28 | Real Estate
Section Sponsored by:
• Understanding the role of the real estate agent • Recently Sold Properties in Brickell, Downtown & Key Biscayne • Recently sold luxury properties in Miami-Dade
Nelly Gambirazio Realtor® Associate 305.987.3503
• Things that Millennials & Boomers need to know about condos
40 | Home Improvement
Section Sponsored by:
• Gardening with allergies • Garage storage buying guide • Why own a generator?
54 | Marketplace
Section Sponsored by:
• The taxi alternative • Apps serve as lock for credit & debit cards
60 | Automotive
Section Sponsored by:
• Edmunds.com Best Retained® Value Awards
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RAISING THE BAR:
IRIKA SARGENT The life lessons and practical experience that make her the consummate journalist it’s apparent from watching her work that Irika Sargent is a consummate professional, whose passion for journalism always finds her going the extra distance to report the news that affects the community. Indeed, as the co-anchor of CBS4’s 5 and 11 pm newscasts, she draws not only on her reporting skills, but from the additional insights she gained from her law school education and the inspiration provided to her by her parents.
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“I
’ve always been motivated by the idea that I should constantly strive to learn more and do better,” Irika maintains. “My parents taught me that it’s not just about me, but also about my community.” That responsibility to involve her viewers also led to a new initiative at CBS4, a campaign in which Irika has encouraged viewers to share their stories, and to contact her through her Twitter and Facebook pages about things they think need to be covered in the community. Thanks to the feedback she’s received, she has taken the opportunity to follow up on some of those suggestions and to report on them on her newscasts. An Emmy Award-winning journalist, Irika arrived at the station from KPRC-TV, the NBC affiliate in Houston, Texas, where she worked as a weekend anchor and night side reporter for the past three years. She also worked at television stations in Mobile, Alabama, Columbia, Missouri and even London, England. She’s covered many major news stories throughout her career, including the BP oil spill along the Gulf Coast and the West Texas plant explosion. She’s also reported on numerous high-profile trials, effectively drawing on her legal expertise. Growing up in Grandview Missouri, a suburb of Kansas City, Irika credits her parents with being great role models and a source of inspiration. “My parents were the first generation in their families to go to college,” she says. “They really valued the opportunities college gave them, and as my siblings
and I got older, my parents would always stress to us the importance of education.” They also shared another life lesson, that is, the need to attain success on her terms. “My mother always said that I could expect to be evicted from their house after I graduated from high school… and she was only half joking,” She chuckles. “They wanted me to go to college and then work hard at a job so that I would be self-sufficient. They would help me whenever I needed them, but they emphasized the satisfaction I would feel making a life for myself.” Irika not only took their advice, but she took it one step further. She graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Journalism degree and also
earned a Juris Doctor degree from Cornell Law School. “When I was young, my father told me that he could see me becoming a lawyer because I loved to argue,” she jokes. “He got it right, with a little bonus. I became both a lawyer and a journalist.” In fact, Irika found that the two disciplines could actually complement each other. “My passion to do both started when I was young,” Irika continues. “In middle and high school I especially loved my journalism, English, creative writing, debate, forensics and speech classes. I competed in debate and forensics throughout high school, and served as president of the debate and forensics teams my senior year.”
in awe of the law Following college and law school graduation, Irika practiced law in the New York office of the international law firm Greenberg Traurig LLP. “In law, I love serving as an advocate for a person or group and helping them get justice. A passionate and dedicated lawyer makes a huge difference when navigating the legal system. As a journalist, I love sharing someone’s story and shedding light on important and timely issues,” she says. “I also enjoy the process of gathering all the angles and facts of a story and then letting viewers decide for themselves what they think and where they fall on an issue. So, I mapped out a career where I would go to law school and practice law for several years. Then, I would
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 11 ]
return to journalism, where my legal skills would provide me with certain insights and help me in my work as an anchor and reporter.” While at Greenberg Traurig for four years, Irika specialized in Labor and Employment law, representing clients in federal and state courts, as well as before the New York Division of Human Rights and National Labor Relations Board. “I was intrigued by the power dynamics and the sometimes sensitive and personal issues that occur in the workplace,” she recalls. “I also valued the opportunity to promote safe, discrimination free work environments.” Irika litigated employment discrimination and sexual harassment cases. She drafted executive employment and severance agreements and employee manuals, and often provided counseling and training for employers and managers. Irika also set aside time to provide free legal services to non-profit groups and underserved communities. Back to broadcasting Still as much as she enjoyed her work as an attorney for Greenberg Traurig, Irika remained committed to resuming her career as a broadcaster. As a result, she put aside a comfortable life in New York City and moved to Mobile, Alabama. “In a way, I was starting over again. I took a job as a multimedia reporter at a TV station in Mobile and that found me shooting, editing and writing my own stories. I arrived there right before the BP oil spill, and as a result, it had a huge impact on me as a journalist. I saw just how important it was to share the stories of the families, businesses and wildlife that suffered so greatly as a result of the oil spill. In fact, I ended up chronicling those consequences for a year afterwards.” While working in Mobile, Irika had the opportunity to draw from her legal training by anchoring a live program that featured a panel of attorneys who fielded legal questions from callers. A year and a half later, Irika pursued an opportunity to move to Houston, Texas to become an anchor/ reporter. The experience left an indelible mark on her, both personally and professionally. She was often challenged to share difficult stories while also
ensuring the victims of those incidents wouldn’t be exploited. “There are several stories from my time in Houston that will always stick with me,” she notes. “I did a report about a mother who was taking her newborn baby to a wellness check-up, when another woman shot her to death in the parking lot and kidnapped her baby. The suspect was caught and pleaded guilty. I spoke to the victim's grieving family, met the baby at the center of the tragedy, and shared the family's quest to see the suspect brought to justice. I was touched by the family's resilience and their commitment to giving their little boy a beautiful life, even without his mother.” Irika also covered the fertilizer plant explosion that killed 15 people and injured many more in the small town of West, Texas. “I was greatly inspired by the people of that town,” Irika recalls. “I will never forget the strength they showed while dealing with their loss.” Then there was the story she reported about a local father who rented a billboard for his six year old son who was in the hospital battling cancer. “On the billboard, along a Houston highway, he wrote a
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 13 ]
simple message – ‘Please Pray for Percy. Age 6. Cancer.’ I interviewed the father and saw his son Percy at the hospital. The father sold his company and moved thousands of miles to Houston to get his son treatment. He rented that billboard because he believed in the power of prayer. The billboard stirred curiosity and the story ultimately inspired many of our viewers. Percy later passed away, but I was so touched by the father's devotion to his son and the unique lengths he went to for his child.” duty… and diversions That may be one reason why Irika has always considered it important to give back to the community. Throughout her career, she has been involved with several charity organizations, including the American Cancer Society, Star of Hope Mission for Houston’s Homeless and Habitat for Humanity. She plans to continue her commitment to community service at CBS4. Some of that commitment to service was inspired by her dog Kingsley. “I've had him since he was a few months old. He's been on this great journey with me from New York, to Mobile, to Houston and now to South Florida. I love animals and I volunteered at BARC, the city animal shelter in Houston. It’s one of the largest city shelters in the country. It’s wonderful to care for the animals and then see so many of them find loving homes.” In spite of her busy schedule, Irika still finds time to indulge in her own hobbies and interests. “I love martial arts, and have a black belt in Tae Kwon Do,” she explains. “I got involved in it in high school and for several years I competed in state tournaments. That led me to start teaching kickboxing at gyms during and after college. I still do martial art workouts now for my own health benefits. It's a great combination of mental and physical discipline, and a nice way to relieve stress after an intense work day.”
Photography is another pastime Irika embraces. “I like to walk around a city looking for the beauty in the design of buildings, bridges, and the unexpected, like the patterns on a sidewalk or street,” she says. “It’s rewarding to capture those images and then frame and hang them in my home. I feel like I'm getting a great escape to just look at the photos and get transported back to that particular place and moment in time.” Now, with her move to CBS4, Irika has found a new kind of inspiration. “I love living and working in Miami, a beautiful and diverse city,” she says enthusiastically. “It’s important to me to share the stories that affect South Florida and to give back to my new community.”
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 15 ]
www.Neighbors4Neighbors.org
Use The Connecting Power Of N4N To
Host A Successful HALLOWEEN COSTUME DRIVE this year
Organizing your own Costume Drive can be simple, easy and fun! You can get your family, co-workers and friends involved in making this holiday season a little brighter for low-income families in our community.
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id you know that many kids in our community have never known the excitement of dressing up in costume? Families are struggling to cover basic needs, with no money left over for the Halloween fun and fantasy so many of us enjoyed as kids. If you have gently worn costumes for kids from toddlers through teens, we know kids who want them. Neighbors 4 Neighbors has nonprofit partners that serve families in need throughout Dade and Broward counties. The costumes you gather will be matched with a nonprofit close to your location. If you or your company would like to participate, notify Neighbors 4 Neighbors as soon as possible. We will help you with steps on how
to organize your drive and email you a flyer to help advertise it. After your collection is complete, we will match you with an agency in your area that will distribute the costumes to kids in need. This is a great way to get your friends and coworkers involved in a positive group activity, while making sure every child gets to dress up this Halloween! We ask that all donations be ready for pick up or delivery by October 20, so call N4N at (305) 597 4404 to get started right away.
Adopt a Family 2014 Opens October 1st Our most popular program of the year, Adopt a Family 4 the Holidays opens October 1st! The program matches hundreds of families in need with caring businesses, churches, groups and individuals who help make the holidays a little brighter for them by providing gifts. Last year, 3,689 people were served through this program with toys, food and gift cards. If you are interested in adopting a family for
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 17 ]
the holidays, or if you would just like to contribute with a donation, go to our website at www.neighbors4neighbors.org and get started right away! Families come in all shapes and sizes, and the site allows you to browse families in your area to find one that fits your budget.
Family resource Guide now available through Children’s Services Council Each year the Children's Services Council of Broward County publishes the Family Resource Guide. This guide comes in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Creole and is free. It includes phone numbers and web links for local agencies and programs serving South Florida families. You can find health and safety tips, public school information, child care and after school care options, sports and recreational programs and much more. Visit the Children’s Services Council website at cscbroward.org to download it now. If you would like a hard copy, they are available at Children's Services Council's office in Broward.
N4N and Advanced Air Helps Man and sick friend living with no AC When a man in Lauderdale Lakes called Neighbors 4 Neighbors our team went into action to see if we could help. He had been living without Air Conditioning for some time and his roommate was very ill and the heat was not making his condition any better. After calling around we found Advanced Air Systems and spoke with Joshua their Sales Manager who was more than happy to help. After a visit to the residence Joshua had one of his technicians take a look at the system and within an hour the air was blowing cold. Needless to say everyone was thrilled and we are thrilled for them. The roommate is feeling better too. We can’t thank Advanced Air Systems enough for not only making the repairs, but for becoming a community partner. People like Joshua and the companies they work for make stories like these have even happier endings!
HUrriCane saFety tiPs 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 backup 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. You can find a disaster plan, CBS4’s hurricane safety information right on our home page at www.neighbors4neighbors.org.
Check out our Youtube page for the special September 28! Our specials are always full of heartwarming stories, essential information and great examples of N4N’s connecting power. Find us on Youtube at www.youtube.com/neighbors4neighbors and make sure to subscribe while you’re there.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 19 ]
HE ALTH
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www.cbsmiami.com
Is It Possible To
Be Healthy While Eating Fast Food? Vanessa Borge A majority of us do it regularly. We end up in the drive-thru line because we’re too busy or too tired to cook. According to a Gallup Poll, 80% of the country eats at a fast food restaurant at least once a month. In fact, revenue at fast food restaurants topped $191 billion last year. But fast food doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your health.
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t is certainly not the best choice, but sometimes you can’t avoid it. That being the case, we wanted to know what the healthiest fast food menu items are. CBS4’s Vanessa Borge went to four popular fast food restaurants with Miami Children’s Hospital certified dietician Erin Corrigan to find out. First stop is McDonald’s…before 10:30 A.M. to scope out the breakfast menu. They ordered the oatmeal, filled with fruit and nuts, the yogurt parfait and the Egg McMuffin.
“If you want a sandwich the best option is to get one with the muffin rather than the biscuit or croissant,” said Corrigan. “It has less calories, fat and sodium. The best option out of the three is the oatmeal. You’re getting whole grain and fresh fruit.” Time for lunch! Burger King, though known for its beef, has surprisingly good salad options. We chose the cranberry apple salad and the Cesar chicken salad. “The area you need to be careful with is the dressing,” explained Corrigan. “The dressing can
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 21 ]
H E A LT H
www.cbsmiami.com sabotage your nutrition efforts. Don’t use the whole packet. And then everyone’s midnight munchie favorite…Taco Bell. Fresco tacos are the way to go, filled with chicken, lettuce, and salsa. “Have it on a soft shell tortilla so it’s going to have less calories than a hard shell tortilla,” said Corrigan. Taco Bell Cantina Bowls are also great. You can fill them with healthy options and remember to leave off the sour cream and cheese! Last stop…Kentucky Fried Chicken. Most of it is fried so here it’s all about portion control. They have chicken bites, but only get the four or six piece. They also have Chicken Littles which are mini sandwiches Made to order restaurants like Pollo Tropical or Chipotle are popular too, but can also be dangerous for your diet. “Chipotle is a great option,” added Corrigan. “Although you have to be careful there because it is very easy to get a high calorie burrito, you can easily go over 1,200 or 1,500 calories.” Make sure you pass on the tortilla and go for the bowl. Choose either rice or beans and cover it with veggies and lots of salsa. But Erin stresses to keep your fast food trips to a minimum. “The food, although you can try to order healthy options, still is mostly processed very high in sodium and in the long run can contribute to heart disease and cancer,” said Corrigan. You may be wondering…what’s the best option of all the meals we ordered? The two Fresco Tacos from Taco Bell. They add up to less than 300 calories for the pair. So again, don’t let fast food become your go-to meal when you can’t find the time or energy to cook. But on that rare occasion, at least now you know there are better choices on the menus.
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H E A LT H
E x pe r ts :
Food Allergies Are Skyrocketing An explosion of food allergies is unique to America and Europe and no one seems to know why but some experts have their theories. Brian Andrews
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ori Garrote is a local musician with a very serious problem. “There have been times I have had to cancel performances because I woke up with my entire face in a rash,” Garrote told CBS4’s Brian Andrews. That’s because Garrote is severely allergic to soy. “There’s soy in my shampoo, my conditioner, my vitamins, my daily vitamins… Um I mean everything,” exclaimed Garrote. It’s an allergy she developed as an adult. Unlike Evelyn Kelly, who was diagnosed with nut allergies at age 2! “Well she’s allergic to all tree nuts and peanuts. She’s very severe. And it is a lifethreatening medical
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ailment,” said Max Kelly, her father. In fact, the Kelly Family Bakery is a business born out of fear that their 6-year old daughter could die if she comes into contact with peanuts and tree nuts, such as walnuts. “She can’t have her best friends birthday cake. But she’s an angel and we find we bring her better products.” The Kelly Family Bakery makes cakes, cupcakes and cookies that have no nuts, peanuts, milk or dairy, the four most common foods to which people are allergic. “Our mission is to make the lives of people suffering with food allergies and food intolerance a little easier and a lot more delicious,” explained Kelly. “Food allergies have gone crazy!” Dr. Kathryn
www.cbsmiami.com
Eisermann-Rogers, an Allergist, who is the medical director for the local food allergy awareness walk. She said peanut allergies have tripled in the last seven years. “Today, I’m probably saying close to 25 or up to 50-percent are allergic already,” the doctor explained. There is an allergy snowball effect you need to be aware of. For example, if you’re allergic to melons, you have a 92% risk of being allergic to other fruits such as bananas and avocados. If you’re allergic to those fruits, you also risk being allergic to latex. If you are allergic to pollen, then there’s a 90% chance you’ll be allergic to apples and peaches.
So why do 1 in 13 children in the U.S. have food allergies when their grandparents didn’t? There is a theory. “In theory, it is possible that we’re so clean we have so many antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers,
that we’re not allowing infants immune systems to see normal bacteria and germs so they are not able to develop appropriately,” Dr. Eisermann-Rogers explained. Here’s a few other things to consider: Remember, our grandparents ate seasonal, real food. They didn’t have fad diets. They prepared their meals from scratch. They didn’t have preservatives in their food or processed foods. When they were sick they didn’t run to the doctor for a prescription. They spent lots of time outside. Ironically, doctors point out that people who live on farms or in non-western countries are unlikely to develop food allergies. Kelly Family Bakery products are currently available at Milams, Norman Brothers, The Village Stand, Wayside Market, Bee Hive Market, Nutrition Smart and will soon be available in South Florida Fresh Market locations.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 25 ]
H E A LT H
Dangers Of
Pain Killers
A Warning From Consumer Reports Consumer Reports is out with a warning about the risks of prescription and over-the-counter pain killers. An investigation was published about the dangers of these drugs and is calling on the FDA to make these drugs safer.
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www.cbsmiami.com
J
ason Kusiak became addicted to pain killers in high school after they were prescribed when he broke his arm and leg. “The pain kind of went away but I still had the medicine and I just kept taking it and taking it,” said Kusiak, now a former addict. Forty-six people die each day in the United States from opioid drugs such as OxyContin, Vicodin and Percocet, according to Consumer Reports. “This is a drug that needs to be monitored carefully to make sure that patients aren’t taking more than they should and they should be withdrawn at the earliest time when they are no longer needed,” said Dr. Marvin Lipman, Chief Medical Adviser with Consumer Reports. The report finds, that when used correctly, opioids relieve short term pain, but to manage some conditions including migraines and nerve pain, other medications may be safer. Sean Clarkin from Partnership for Drug Free Kids says alternatives are important. “Let’s not assume that prescription pain relievers are the only answer to every kind of condition that
involves pain,” said Sean Clarkin of Partnership for Drug Free Kids.
When it comes to over the counter pain relievers, Consumer Reports is also warning about accidentally overdosing on acetaminophen saying it’s found in hundreds of medications and labels can be confusing. Kusiak, 30, hopes that more people heed the warnings and don’t get hooked on prescription painkillers like he did. “It’s not a cure all,” Kusiak. “Taking this drug isn’t going to make you feel completely better.” Kusiak has been in recovery for four years. The report also highlights the importance of taking medications exactly as prescribed and discarding unused medications.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 27 ]
Real Estate Sponsored By
Understanding the Role of the
Real Estate Agent The road to homeownership can be bumpy, and it’s often filled with unexpected turns and detours. That’s why it makes sense to have a real estate pro help guide the way.
A
ccording to the National Association of Realtors 2013 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, 88 percent of buyers purchase their homes through real estate agents or brokers. That reliance on real estate professionals has steadily increased from 69 percent in 2001. While real estate websites and mobile apps can help you identify houses you may be interested in, an experienced agent does much more.
Real estate agents: 1. Guide. Before you tour your first home, your agent will take time to learn more about your wants, needs, preferences, budget and motivation. A good real estate agent will help you narrow your search and identify your priorities. 2. Educate. You should expect your agent to provide data on the local home market and comparable sales. The homebuying process can be complicated. A good agent will explain the steps involved – in a manner that makes them understandable – and provide counsel along the way. 3. Network. An agent who is familiar with your target neighborhoods will often know about homes that are for sale – even before they’re officially listed. Experienced agents tend to know other agents in the area and have good working relationships with them; this can lead to smooth transactions. Your agent may also be able to refer you
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Content provided by www.zillow.com
to trusted professionals including lenders, home inspectors and contractors. 4. Advocate. When you work with a buyer’s agent, their fiduciary responsibility is to you. That means you have an expert who is looking out for your best financial interests, an expert who’s contractually bound to do everything in their power to protect you. If you find yourself in a situation where the same agent represents both the buyer and seller, things can get trickier, advises Scottsdale, Arizona-based real estate agent Dru Bloomfield.
“A lot of people think they’ll get a lower price by going straight to the listing agent, but that’s always not true,” she says. “If I was representing both the buyer and seller, I’d be hard-pressed to take a low-ball offer to the seller. But, as a buyer’s agent I’d do it, because I have no emotional ties or fiduciary responsibility to the seller. Buyers should work with an agent who can fully represent them.” 5. Negotiate. Your agent will handle the details of the negotiation process, including the preparation of all necessary offer and counteroffer forms. Once your inspection is done, the agent can also help you negotiate
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.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 31 ]
R E A L ESTAT E
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Content Provided by www.zillow.com
for repairs. Even the most reasonable consumers can become distraught when battling over repair requests; an agent can do “the ask” without becoming overly emotional. 6. Manage minutia. The paperwork that goes along with a real estate transaction can be exhaustive. If you forget to initial a clause or check a box, all those documents will need to be resubmitted. A good real estate agent understands the associated deadlines and details and can help you navigate these complex documents. 7. Look out. Any number of pitfalls can kill a deal as it inches toward closing; perhaps the title of the house isn’t clear, the lender hasn’t met the financing deadline or the seller has failed to disclose a plumbing problem. An experienced real estate agent knows to watch for trouble before it’s too late, and can skillfully deal with challenges as they arise. Professional real estate agents do so much more than drive clients around to look at homes. Find an agent you trust and with whom you feel comfortable working; you’re sure to benefit from their experience, knowledge of the local market and negotiation skills.
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Real Estate Recently Sold Properties in Brickell, Downtown & Key Biscayne
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1717 N Bayshore Dr, #B-4153, Miami, FL 33132
825 SW 27th Rd, Miami, FL 33129
900 Biscayne Blvd, Apt 4005, Miami, FL 33132
1 Beds / 1 Bath | 999 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 1986 Sold: 7/8/2014 | $245,000
3 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 2,243 sq. ft. | 7,013 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1971 Sold: 7/23/2014 | $492,500
1 Beds / 1 Bath | 929 sq. ft. | Condo - Lot | Built in: 2008 Sold: 6/4/2014 | $500,000
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735 SW 22nd Rd, Miami, FL 33129 4 Beds / 3 Bath | 3,937 sq. ft. 6,577 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2003 Sold: 7/11/2014 | $955,000
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Content provided by www.zillow.com
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642 Hampton Ln, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
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145 W Mcintyre St, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
3 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 1,546 sq. ft. | 7,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1950 4 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,943 sq. ft. | 9,300 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1951 Sold: 7/21/2014 | $1,570,000 Sold: 7/23/2014 | $1,760,000
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676 Ridgewood Rd, Key Biscayne, FL 33149 3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,698 sq. ft. | 7,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1952 Sold: 7/29/2014 | $2,900,000
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200 Biscayne Blvd Way, Apt 5110, Miami, FL 33131 2 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 1,237 sq. ft. Condo - Lot | Built in: 2009 Sold: 6/11/2014 | $800,000
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Real Estate
Recently Sold Luxury Properties in Miami Dade
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12 Indian Creek Island Rd, Indian Creek Village, FL 33154
444 Arvida Pkwy, Coral Gables, FL 33156
7 Beds / 9 Bath | n/a sq. ft. | 1 acre Lot | Built in: 2000 Sold: 7/22/2014 | $28,000,000
5 Beds / 6.5 Bath | 8,613 sq. ft. | 7,700 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1984 Sold: 7/24/2014 | $9,000,000
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8540 SW 52nd Ave, Miami, FL 33143
5455 Hammock Dr, Coral Gables, FL 33156
5 Beds / 6 Bath | 7,591 sq. ft. | 8,550 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2001 Sold: 7/28/2014 | $4,000,000
3 Beds / 2 Bath | 4,184 sq. ft. | 1.24 acre Lot | Built in: 1955 Sold: 7/29/2014 | $3,000,000
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4315 N Meridian Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
1244 Anastasia Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134
4 Beds / 4.5 Bath | 4,031 sq. ft. | 9,620 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1925 Sold: 7/24/2014 | $2,750,000
7 Beds / 8 Bath | 9,076 sq. ft. | 0.57 acre Lot | Built in: 1925 Sold: 7/28/2014 | $2,716,400
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1210 97th St, Bay Harbor Islands, FL 33154
5364 Sunset Dr, Miami, FL 33143
5 Beds / 5.5 Bath | 4,195 sq. ft. | 10,000 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2002 Sold: 7/23/2014 | $2,075,000
5 Beds / 5 Bath | 4,340 sq. ft. | 9,975 sq ft Lot | Built in: 2004 Sold: 7/21/2014 | $1,590,000
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3083 N Bay Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33140
5811 Lagorce Dr, Miami, FL 33140
4 Beds / 3.5 Bath | 2,510 sq. ft. | 7,318 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1930 Sold: 7/24/2014 | $1,300,000
4 Beds / 2.5 Bath | 2,401 sq. ft. | n/a Lot | Built in: 1956 Sold: 7/21/2014 | $1,250,000
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7745 Noremac Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33141
455 NE 55th St, Miami, FL 33137
4 Beds / 3 Bath | 2,480 sq. ft. | 10,500 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1950 Sold: 8/4/2014 | $1,100,000
3 Beds / 2 Bath | 1,831 sq. ft. | 8,232 sq ft Lot | Built in: 1969 Sold: 7/21/2014 | $1,049,000
ld
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September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 37 ]
R E A L ESTAT E
Things That Millennials & Boomers Need to Know About Condos Whether you’re just starting out, upgrading or downsizing to your ultimate retirement pad, choosing a home is both a financial and a practical consideration. For millennials just starting out, saving up for the down payment and getting qualified for a loan can be financially stressful. For many baby boomers, the considerations are more practical than financial. Downsizing from a large home is appealing because the responsibilities that come with homeownership can be burdensome as we age.
T
here is a great option worth considering by both millennials and boomers: condominium ownership. Owning a condo has many of the same benefits of owning a single-family home. You can build equity and benefit from the tax incentive that comes with homeownership as well as the stability that homeownership provides. But there are potential downsides. Some condo homeowners association rules may be an unpleasant surprise for many millennials. For boomers, living in a building or being a part of a community and abiding by the restrictions could be a challenge, particularly after owning a single-family home for many years. Here are some rules and restrictions boomers and millennials alike often face when going the condo route.
Your hardwood floors will need to be (partially) covered Living on top or below others can be a drag. For millennials, they likely have a recent experience with communal living, either in a dorm room, a rental building or even back in their parents’ home. For boomers who have lived under their own roof for many years, this could be a shock to the system. But imagine what it would be like to live in a building full of hardwood floors and little-to-no carpet to absorb the noise. Add to that high heels, dogs and little kids running around, and the sound transmission amplifies. Nearly every multi-story condo building will require every owner to cover at least 80 percent of the floors. Of course, the floor inspector doesn’t do monthly rounds to check if your floors are carpeted. But if you live above or
[ 38 ] September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
Content Provided by www.zillow.com
below someone who is sensitive to noise, you can be certain they will complain, and the rule will be enforced.
You can’t use your parking space for storage Many condo units come with at least one dedicated parking space, often in a garage (especially for urban condo buildings). As a condo owner, you own that dedicated parking space, even if you don’t have a car. However, many millennials forgo cars for bike shares, public transportation, Zipcars and the occasional Uber ride. To them, a deeded parking space with their condo might seem like wasted space. So why not use it for storage, especially when closet space is at a premium? Similarly, boomers who are used to turning a garage into a storage locker, garden center or workspace might wonder if they could do the same with their condo parking space. In most cases, however, the condo’s rules and regulations won’t allow it. Imagine a garage full of beach chairs, bikes, storage containers, gas grills and garbage. It’s neither pretty nor orderly. For this reason, the rule exists.
There will be noise restrictions Most condo rules specify that between certain hours (generally 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.), occupants must not interfere with other owners’ quiet enjoyment. This rule is frequently enforced and is likely music to the ears of a boomer concerned with leaving their private, quiet, single-family home for community living. For a millennial who is still within striking distance of their party years and the noise that comes with it, this is a big consideration. It’s important, particularly if you’re sensitive to noise, to understand how the building was constructed. Is there concrete between the floors, or is it all wood? How well does noise transfer? This is one important rule both noisy and noise-sensitive folks fail to consider before embarking on condo ownership.
You may have to kiss Fido goodbye Until they’re well into the real estate search,
few people realize that many condo buildings have pet restrictions. In some places, it’s not legal to completely outlaw pets. Even so, restrictions regarding the type and number of pets will exist in any condo development. Do you have a Great Dane that weighs more than 50 pounds? She may not be welcome in the condo community of your dreams. Year after year, buyers have had to forego great apartments simply because of a pet. Knowing this before you get too involved in the real estate process will help soften the blow when you discover that Fido isn’t welcome — a potential shot to the heart of both the boomer and the millennial.
You may not be able to rent your condo Many condo boards have restrictions on the number of rentals allowed in the building. Having too high a percentage of renters makes it harder for new buyers to get a loan. In addition, homeowners believe that owners who are present have more of a vested interest in caring for the building than a tenant, who has much less at stake. Finally, if you’ve been dreaming of making some extra cash with shortterm rentals, you better check the condo’s rules and restrictions first, as some will forbid such rentals.
Bottom line: Find out the rule on renting, as well as the current percentage of renters, before you buy. Know before you go If you’re not ready to give in to some of the restrictions that come with condo ownership, you might want to reconsider. While some homeowners associations are more lenient than others, you should go into a condo purchase with eyes wide open. Rules are made for a reason, and you should expect them to be enforced. Before signing on the dotted line, you’ll have the opportunity to pore through the house rules, covenants, conditions and restrictions and the past year’s meeting minutes. This helps you learn as much as possible about the condo, the rules and the board.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 39 ]
HOME IMPROVEMENT
home improvement
b y habif y
Eat, play, relax
Easy to maintain + enjoy
[ 42 ] September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
Begin with smart design
Content provided by www.habify.com
7 ways to love your landscape
“We're focused on integrating everything you need for your home improvement into a single service.” —Chris Block, General Manager
Invest in design Choose a team with expertise in space planning, plants, and construction. All of these skills are important for a successful project. A beautiful and practical landscape increases the value of your property and shouldn’t be left in the hands of the yard guy.
Eat, play, relax There is a reason that you live in South Florida rather than South Dakota. What features would allow you to spend time enjoying your garden. Pools, Outdoor dining, cooking, entertaining and relaxing areas help you spend more time outdoors. Include a mix of play areas, patios, areas shaded by trees or trellises, sunny areas, and privacy hedgerows.
Go native Our climate is perfect for growing hundreds of plants from North America and the Caribbean. With so many beautiful plants evolved to thrive here, there is no need to landscape with plants that are kept on life support with chemicals and irrigation. The key is choosing a designer who knows native plants and will spend the time to select the right plants for your yard.
Make it productive Your yard can provide food for you and for birds and butterflies. Many fruit trees are highly productive and exceptionally easy to grow in South Florida. An herb or vegetable garden is easily incorporated in most landscapes. Your privacy hedge or flowerbeds can provide berries, nectar and nesting opportunities for bluejays and butterflies. Every garden is more interesting when it is full of life!
6
Diversify your investment
When a single plant is used extensively it is vulnerable (think Ficus hedges and white flies). Using many species and forms of plants helps maintain a natural balance where birds and beneficial insects play their role. Spraying poison in a residential landscape simply is not an option.
7
Get references
Get references from the people that have used your designer & contractor. Websites like www.guildquality.com or www.houzz.com can be great sources for verified reviews of a companies work. Spending this time making sure they check out, and their clients are happy with their past performance will save you a lot of grief down the road.
Change is good A successful landscape is a growing and ever-changing place. The smells, colors and sounds of your garden should be different throughout the year. If your plants are constantly trimmed your garden will lack the flowers, and fruits that mark the seasons and bring birds and butterflies to your yard. If a plant needs to be constantly trimmed to keep it in its place it is not the right plant.
KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • LANDSCAPES • DESIGN HOME PERFORMANCE • RETAIL • CONSTRUCTION
Call habify at (305) 443-4900, visit online at habify.com
or in person at their showroom at
4940 SW 42nd Avenue Miami, FL 33146 September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 43 ]
H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T
Gardening With
Allergies
Millions of gardeners suffer from some sort of respiratory distress during the gardening season. It is impossible to remove pollen from the lawn and garden completely, there are a few things you can do.
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Pollen and Allergies Pollen grains are tiny particles that flowering plants produce by the millions. The grains contain genetic material necessary for the fertilization and survival of plant species. On its own, pollen is a relatively harmless substance. However, when it's inhaled or reaches the eyes of many humans, a reaction is triggered - the sneezing and watery eyes begin. There are two main types of pollen. Each corresponds to the plant's method of pollination. Wind-borne pollinating plants produce pollen that is light and practically invisible. Easily inhaled, this is the type that causes the allergic reactions. Although "wind-borne" and often carried very far away, most of it stays close to the source. Wind-borne pollen can collect on anything and it sometimes gives other plants a bad rap. Most ornamental shrubs, annuals and perennials are safe. Oddly enough, the clouds and layers of pollen we see from pine trees is usually not allergy-provoking. Fruit trees are pollinated by insects and are also safe. Plants with strong fragrances can also prompt allergic reactions that are not necessarily related to pollen. Insect-pollinated plants produce grains that are larger, heavier and sticky. These types in general are not irritants. Carried by insects and animals from plant to plant, these pollens are readily visible. Pollen of both types range in size and protein makeup; therefore they also range in levels of allergic aggravation. Tree pollen is number one on the list. The major suppliers of wind-borne pollens are oak, birch, most maples, ash and alder. Lesser tree allergen contributors include acacia, hickory, mesquite and sycamore. These trees bloom before they produce leaves — one of the keys to wind-borne pollen. The season begins in late winter and carries over into spring.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 45 ]
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H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T Content Provided by www.lowes.com
Weed and grass pollens are next. The most notorious pollen-producing weeds are from the ragweed family. Chrysanthemums, daisies and marigolds are members of this group. Most common turfgrasses do not produce pollen and will not if kept mowed at their proper height. Late spring into summer and fall are the season for these plants.
Dealing with Pollen Allergies The pollen season starts in late winter/early spring and lasts until the first frost. Short of never going outdoors, here are some things a gardener can do: • Plant insect-pollinated plants in your garden. • Avoid gardening from 5-10 a.m. Pollen levels are usually at their highest at this time, especially when the weather is hot and calm or very windy. • Wear a mask,hat and glasses. Avoid taking pollen-covered clothing into the house. • Wash thoroughly, including your hair, after gardening sessions. • Keep weeds in check by vigilant mowing, pulling and mulching, or by planting ground cover. • Replace hedges with fences or walls. • Install a water garden. • Check the local pollen count. The pollen count monitors pollen levels in the air and can help you when planning outdoor activities. • Avoid "seedless" or "male" varieties of trees or shrubs. These are typically wind-borne pollen producers. Although most plant tags do not designate which, if any, sex the plant is, it doesn't hurt to check. • Rain or a change in the weather will remove a lot of pollen from the air. Moisture from that same rain can also prompt new blooms on some troublesome plants and increase mold spores. Mold spores are also a cause of distress for many allergy sufferers. They can occur in dry or wet weather, depending on the type. Less seasonal but just as irritating are indoor allergens.
Molds, dust, dust mites and pet dander are persistent and troublesome to many people. Use these items to help improve the indoor environment: • Air purifier with a HEPA (High Efficiency articulate Arresting Filtration) filter. • Dehumidifier to dry out basements or other damp rooms. • Air conditioner with a clean filter.
Caution Any difficulty in breathing may indicate asthma or other respiratory problems. Consult a physician for advice.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 47 ]
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September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 49 ]
H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T
Garage Storage Buying Guide We can show you how to clear the clutter -- even making room in the garage for the family car. All you need are the right storage solutions and a little motivation.
Shelving Units Garage shelving makes use of the space you have in the vertical plane and helps get your stored items off the floor. Storing items vertically can save a lot of your valuable floor space, increase your garage's overall storage capacity and provide a safer, more productive work area. Garage shelving has come a long way in the past several years. You can still build your own shelves from dimensional lumber and plywood. Or you can choose from the following options:
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Wall-mounted shelving: You can get wall-mounted, heavy-duty wire shelving designed especially for the garage. Most wall-mounted shelves are designed to hold up to 100 lbs. per linear foot of shelf. Some systems have a plastic coating that protects the shelving from the sometimes harsh garage environment and prevents rust and corrosion. The open wire construction of the shelves allows air to circulate around your stored items and helps decrease mold and mildew in moist climates. Another option is to use heavy, metal shelving brackets attached to your walls to support dimensional lumber, MDF or plywood shelves. Freestanding shelving: Freestanding shelves are available in wood, wire and resin. These units give you the flexibility of having your shelves well away from walls or other support structures in the garage. A strategically placed set of freestanding shelving units can create a designated space for laundry or shop activities. Some units are even available with locking-caster wheels that allow you to move the entire unit with ease and then lock it securely in place.
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Utility Cabinets Utility cabinets are available in resin, metal and wood/wood composite materials. They are a convenient way to store items behind doors and out of sight. Some even offer lockable doors to keep curious little ones from accessing sharp tools or dangerous household chemicals.
Storage Bins and Boxes From storing sporting equipment to holiday decorations, there are many different bins and boxes that you can use to organize your garage. Use clear ones to quickly identify what you need.
Wall and Rafter Hangers There are many types of hooks and hangers available. Simply secure the hook to a wall stud or ceiling rafter and you can store anything from ladders and hoses to bicycles, depending on the type of hanger you choose.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 51 ]
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H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T Content Provided by www.lowes.com
Why Own a Generator? Power outages are more than just inconveniences for homeowners and businesses, but a generator can keep our necessities and conveniences running during an outage. Power Outages Power outages often last for hours, days or even weeks, and they can be costly if you're not prepared. Hurricanes, tornadoes and ice storms can disrupt our vulnerable power supply system. But it's not just inclement weather that can turn the lights out. Curious animals, automobile accidents, human error and utility failures also can trigger a blackout. Prepare now by adding a standby generator or portable generator that will help make power outages more manageable.
Determining Your Generator Needs The most important step in finding the type of generator you need is to identify how you will likely use it. Consider these uses:
Home • • • • •
•
Power essential appliances and lights Power occasional protection devices such as a sump pump Power an entire home or most of a home Provide backup power for short-term or occasional outages Provide long-term backup power where weather systems can disrupt power for days or weeks, sometimes several times a year Provide backup power for individuals who may have difficulty handling and operating a portable generator
Business • • •
Power essential computers, networks and phones Power an entire business Provide temporary jobsite electricity for tools and lights
•
Provide backup power for short-term or occasional outages
Recreation • • • • •
Camping Boating Tailgating Standby Generators Standby Generator
A permanently installed automatic standby generator provides 24 / 7 backup power protection and peace of mind for your family or business during a power outage. A standby generator runs on liquid propane or natural gas, and just like your central air conditioner, works automatically when you need it and shuts off when you don’t. There’s no need to manually fuel or start a standby generator, and you can eliminate the need for extension cords that portable generators require. Sizes are available to back up essential circuits only or to provide complete coverage for large homes and businesses. Around the home, a standby generator can create enough power for nearly all of your needs — heating or cooling, lighting and cooking — at the same time.
Portable Generators A portable generator is a great, mobile option for temporary power. But portable generators are intended only as a backup solution to provide power for some basic household needs on an emergency basis — or to provide power for recreation, camping and power tools where electricity isn’t available. Portable generators operate on gasoline or propane. They produce carbon monoxide gas and should never be run indoors or near windows and doors.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 53 ]
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September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 55 ]
MARKE TPL ACE
The
Taxi Alternative David Sutta
It’s been several weeks since taxi competitors Uber and Lyft started up in Miami-Dade County. The ride-sharing companies are beating up the transportation industry by giving you the power to order up a ride with an app on your smartphone. Their cars are typically cleaner, arrive on time, and are cheaper than taxi cabs. But not everything has changed. Many of the people driving Uber and Lyft cars are cab drivers turning on their industry.
[ 56 ] September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
www.cbsmiami.com
“This is like a network now. This is more like Facebook and Twitter of transportation,” said Lantigua.“This is changing the way of transportation. That is what this is doing.”
Instead of hours spent waiting for a fare, the rides come to him. Riders pull up the app and ask for a ride, if he’s the closest car he gets the alert on his smart phone.
F
rom sunrise to sunset, drivers sit in the taxi lot of Miami International Airport, baking for hours for a fare. Eight months ago CBS4 documented how an average driver like Miguel Lantigua worked 16 hours to make $55, which is less than minimum wage. “Hopefully tomorrow is a better day,” said Lantigua. Earlier this month Lantigua, who is quite happy, let CBS4 ride in his Uber van as his phone alerted him to his first job. “I got a job. 6701 Collins, that’s going to be hotel,” said Lantigua. Little did Lantigua know the next day would actually be better. “I get home by four, five o’clock. I have more time to spend with family,” said Lantigua. “And I can make better money with this.” Lantigua sold his cab in June and signed on with the ride sharing company Uber.
“As long as Uber is here, I am going to stay here. I’ll tell you that,” said Lantigua. Lantigua isn’t alone though. “I sold my cab,” said driver Rafael Santos. Everyday more and more cab drivers like Santos are jumping ship. He even said that he is ok risking his job for the new service. “The job that we had, there was no job. It was a joke,” said Santos. In Miami-Dade County a majority of the cabs you see on the road are not owned by the drivers. They simply are renting a medallion that allows them to drive. With Uber, they essentially are taking to their personal cars and stopped renting medallions. “We’ve had hundreds of taxi cab drivers inquire and come in and start to join the platform and they are really excited about it and so are we,” said Billy Guernier of Uber. Uber wouldn’t say exactly how many drivers have crossed over but it’s clear the people who were renting out their medallions are pissed. “We don’t negotiate with people who break the laws,” said some a part of Miami-Dade TV. The roughly 2,000 medallion owners are worried about the value of their medallions. The county auctioned medallions fetched hundreds of thousands of dollars. People mortgaged homes to buy them in recent years.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 57 ]
M A R K E T P L AC E
At a recent county commission meeting on taxi cab regulation taxi owners complained. “They spent $400,000; they bought the permit at the auction. Now you tell it isn’t worth the price?” said one medallion owner.
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The county is trying to make good on medallions by writing $1000 tickets to Uber and Lyft drivers they catch. They claim the ride-sharing drivers are operating illegally. Lantigua got a thousand dollar ticket. Uber will pay it. But Lantigua doesn’t feel like he is breaking the law. “I would say I am not breaking the law,” said Lantigua. “I don’t think there is a law to regulate this type of transportation.” Commissioners are trying to clarify the rules but haven’t been able to pass anything. “What I’m against is having individuals come basically not follow the rules,” said Miami-Dade Commissioner Dennis Moss. “Who is breaking laws? This is a ridesharing app. You can request a ride, I can give you a ride, and in return you give me a donation for giving you a ride, which helps me pay for gas. Helps me pay for things,” said a Lyft driver in response.
www.cbsmiami.com
The argument has left ridesharing apps and the county in deadlock. So if they keep writing tickets will drivers just keep paying them? “We have no plans to stop operating in Miami,” said Guernier. Which brings us back to the airport, where some cab drivers are still baking in the sun waiting for a fare. But more and more you see two people who say nothing to each other, swiftly throw the bags in the back of the unmarked car, and the passenger takes the backseat. “I hope the commissioners have the vision, the authorities here in Miami have the vision, to support this kind transportation. The new way, the new model of transportation,” said Lantigua. Uber said they see the conversation shifting among politicians. It’s no longer about ‘how do we get rid of them’ but rather ‘how do they fit here.’ In the meantime taxi cab owners are infuriated, they continue to pay licenses, fees, and insurance while Uber drivers don’t pay any of that. In short, this is far from over.
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
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 59 ]
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September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 61 ]
AUTOMOTIVE
Your Dealership
wants your
car back
Consumer demand is strong for used cars, but supplies are limited. As a result, auto dealers badly need trade-ins and are willing to pay top dollar. Often the notice comes as a flier in the mail, but you might get a friendly phone call from the salesman who sold you a new car a few years ago. The dealership is paying top dollar for trade-ins, you're told, and now is the perfect time for you to sell your vehicle. In sum, your new-car dealer really wants your used car.
[ 62 ] September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne
Content provided by South Miami Fiat
T
here are about 260 million cars on America's roads. Why is your 3-, 4- or 5-year-old machine so special? It's because, for the car business, these are unusual times.
The changing car market According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 10.6 million new vehicles were sold or leased in the United States in 2012 (the latest year for which the bureau has reports), while 35.5 million used vehicles swapped hands. That 10.6 million new-car market was a big down year for the industry -- down from 13.5 million units in 2011, 16.5 million in 2010 and more than 17 million in both 2009 and 2008. Used-car sales also dropped between 2008 and 2012, but only about half as much on a percentage basis. Car sales have recovered somewhat since 2012. Bill McKinney, Director of South Florida's Buy Back Program, project that 2014 new-car sales are likely to come in around 12.9 million units, and, according to program statistics, just under 37 million used cars swapped hands last year. "The used-car market has always dwarfed the new-car market in unit sales, and many, if not most, dealers make more money on their used-car sales than they do on new cars. But when new-car sales are down, dealers have fewer used-car trade-ins to sell" says McKinney. So with 2009 new-vehicle sales representing about 60% of what they were in 2008, up to 40% fewer used cars were being traded in. Those declines have meant there are a lot fewer of the prime, low-mileage, late-model used cars around to sell in dealer lots. In particular, with gasoline prices higher this year, there aren't a lot of late-model small used cars such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Ford Focus around, and demand for them is up. "Strong consumer demand for small used cars is driving prices up," Jonathan Banks, a senior analyst with the National Automobile Dealers Association Used Car Guide, said in a news release. "The NADA Guide increase in trade-in values for June should come as no surprise because it reflects a shortage of both new and used cars entering the market." In May, NADA projected trade-in values for small cars to rise 18% during the first half of 2014, compared with the first half of 2013. The differences
in value can be startling. Even in one month, values for used small cars have skyrocketed. For instance, the NADA Used Car Guide had the trade-in value of a 2009 Kia Rio at $6,400 in May and
by June had raised that to $7,500. That's a 17% rise in just one month. "You're not getting that kind of return on your savings account. Even the value of something as old as the 2005 Subaru Impreza RS is rising, up from $6,650 in May to $7,575 in June" McKinney tells us. Values are up so sharply for some cars that it's tempting to trade in a car that's only about a year old. For instance, a new 2010 Honda Civic DX coupe carried a $15,455 sticker price (plus taxes, license and delivery). Today that same car has a NADA trade-in value of $14,075. That's a drop of only $1,380 over a year. "A lot of lessees and buyers will find they're on the right side of their leases or loans," Banks told MSN Money. "If they trade in their cars, they'll find they have some money for a down payment." It's all about supply and demand. Dealers want your car, and are willing to pay more than its worth, because they have buyers for solid late-model used cars lined up, and there simply aren't enough cars for them out there. And they may as well try to get your car now, before it's worth even more next month. But selling, or even trading-in, your car is not about just walking into any dealer and handing over the keys. For more information on selling/trading your vehicle contact South Florida's Buy-Back Program headquarters at 888-542-5153.
September 2014 CBS4 News Magazine Key Biscayne [ 63 ]
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AU TO M OT I V E Content Provided by www.media.chrysler.com
2014 Jeep Wrangler, 2014 Dodge Challenger & 2014 Ram ProMaster
win Best Retained
Edmunds.com ®
Value Awards
“Chrysler Group is honored to accept these awards from Edmunds.com,” said Doug Betts, Senior Vice President – Quality, Chrysler Group LLC. “Great resale value reflects the strengthening of our brands and the improvements in the customer satisfaction and quality for these award winning products.”
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AU TO M OT I V E
Content Provided by www.media.chrysler.com
Eligibility for this year’s Best Retained Value® Awards included all 2014 model-year vehicles that were launched by the end of 2013; those that Edmunds had at least three months of True Market Value®(TMV®) data; and those that had unit sales in February 2014 that were at least 20 percent of the average unit sales for the models in its segment. Edmunds.com determined each model's segment based on its body type, the size of the vehicle within its body type segment and the model's competitive luxury or non-luxury class.
2014 Jeep Wrangler The iconic Jeep Wrangler – the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world – is equipped with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and up to 21 miles per gallon. Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched off-road capability with legendary four-wheel drive and is produced with more than seven decades of 4x4 engineering experience. Wrangler continues to offer a body-on-frame design, front and rear five-link suspension system, live axles, electronic lockers, and is one of the few mid-size SUVs that offer a six-speed manual transmission – in addition to its five-speed automatic transmission.
2014 Dodge Challenger With record sales levels since the reintroduction of the Challenger in 2008, the Dodge brand’s performance icon continues to deliver exactly what muscle car enthusiasts want – a powerful and efficient engine lineup, iconic muscle-car design with numerous personalization packages. Dodge Challenger combines world-class ride, refinement and braking performance with more power and a track-tuned suspension to deliver a thrilling driving experience. With its awardwinning 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 305 horsepower and an impressive 25 mpg highway, the Dodge Challenger is the most powerful, refined and
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technologically advanced entry-level Challenger ever. And now with the return of Scat Pack performance stage kits, plus the enthusiast-demanded Shaker performance hood with its HEMI® V-8 engine-mounted, fully floating scoop and exposed high-flow element for cold-air induction – the new 2014 Challenger R/T Shaker delivers up to 375 horsepower, performance and even more heritage-inspired style for the most hardcore Dodge enthusiasts. New for 2015, the Dodge Challenger is adding more power and performance, with the all-new 600-plus horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT with the HEMI Hellcat engine, the 485 best-in-class horsepower of the new track-ready 6.4-liter Scat Pack model, the 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker, as well as an all-new interior and segmentfirst standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.
2014 Ram ProMaster The new 2014 Ram ProMaster is Ram Commercial's latest addition to its popular commercial vehicle lineup. ProMaster takes its place in the expanding, purpose-built, full-size van segment with a number of segment-leading features focused on the commercial customer. Coming from a strong background of commercial vehicles produced by Fiat Professional, the ProMaster is based on the Fiat Ducato, which has been in production for more than 30 years. Best-inclass fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, usability, and, of course, total cost of ownership all combine to deliver a proven solution for businesses and fleets.