Portfolio 30a May/June 2017

portfolio30a

Vol I • Issue May/June

www.Portfolio30A.com

Always on the Ball, Only at the Beach.

ROSEMARY BEACH

WATERCOLOR

MLS# 766371

MLS# 769013

216 ROUND ROAD

107 BLACKWATER STREET

6,442 SF • 5 Bedrooms • 5 / 5 ½ Bath • $4,495,000

• 4,613 SF • 6 Bedrooms • 5 ½ Bathrooms • $4,500,000

WATERCOLOR

SEACREST BEACH

MLS# 761783

MLS# 768283

57 BLACKWATER STREET

310 SEACREST DRIVE

4,216 SF • 5 Bedrooms • 5 Bathrooms • $2,145,000

4,254 SF • 5 Bedrooms • 5 ½ Bathrooms • $2,095,000

SEASIDE

WATERCOLOR

MLS# 767339

MLS# 764154

35 CENTRAL SQUARE A-2

2,507 SF • 4 Bedrooms • 2 ½ Bathrooms • $1,995,000

850.231.9007

TheBeachGroup.com

23 HIGH STREET

3,067 SF • 5 Bedrooms • 4 ½ Bathrooms • $1,895,000

Info@TheBeachGroup.com

ECAR Update for Portfolio 30A Readers Provided by ECAR

Realtors® Take to Tallahassee In March, Emerald Coast Association of Realtors® leadership and members visited Tallahassee along with Realtors® from across the state as a part of Great American Realtor® Days. They spoke with lawmakers about issues important to homeowners, including the lowering of the Business Rent Tax. The tax limits the growth potential of businesses throughout the state and stifles their ability to help their communities thrive.

Some of the first time ECAR members that took the trip were the 2017 Leadership Development Program class. “This trip introduced future ECAR leaders to the political portion of their Real Estate career helping them to see and understand the need for political action in order to preserve and protect Home Ownership in Florida,” said 2017 LDP Chairman Ben Acock.

closed sales stats Feb2017

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Design by Portfolio30A

Photo top left [2017 LDP Class] “The students were able meet with Realtors from around the state and receive a briefing on legislation that is currently on the floor of the House and the Senate” said Ben about the group’s time in the Capitol “we took them up the hill where we met with State Representative Mel Ponder and witnessed first-hand the wheels of the government in action.”

“You can visit us at our Walton County location, conveniently located in the O’donnell Eye Institute building in beautiful Santa Rosa Beach.”

Emerald Coast Association of REALTORS® 6757 U.S. Hwy 98, Suite 202, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 10 Hollywood Blvd. SE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548 (850) 243-6145 – customerservice@ecaor.com www.EmeraldCoastHomesOnline.com www.EmeraldCoastRealtors.com

Forever Gulf Views Over State Park

278 Savelle Drive in Grayton Beach

Picture-perfect Scenic 30A luxury home. With 210-degree views over gulf front state park, unspoiled sand dunes & emerald gulf waters. Charming surprises around every corner. Pool with spa. Moments from crystal white beach. Privacy, nature, perfection. A fully automated and upgraded “smart” beach home.

Incredible investment potential with $250 - $300K rental projections.

6 Bdrms | 8.5 Baths | 5,020 Sqft | 3 Car Garage | ASKING $2,879,000 | MLS# 758599

Text “Gulf Trace” to 850.687.7504 for more information

Gulf Coast Real Estate Specialists

Gulf Coast Real Estate Specialists

GO TO THE BEACH Real Estate 3567 E Co Hwy 30A Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 www.gotothebeach.com

Jon Miller

Jon@gotothebeach.com 850.687.7504

7 SMART HOME DEVICES THAT COULD PAY OFF WHEN YOU SELL Adding smart home devices not only could help your home sell faster,1 but it could cut your home insurance bills in the meantime.2 Consider these devices to get started.

1

Nest Learning Thermostat ($249) Adapts temperature automatically, based on your preferences and the change of seasons. Also lets you control temperature from the Web.

5

Nest Protect ($99) Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm.

When it goes off, it explains by voice what and where the problem is and also sends an alert to your smartphone in case you’re not home.

1 2

2

Nest Cam ($199) Monitors activity in- and outside your home. Outside version alerts you when someone approaches the home so you can talk to the person.

6

Rachio Sprinkler System ($250) Adjusts irrigation based on local weather forecast. Also, you can monitor and adjust cycles from your smartphone.

3

August Smart Lock ($229) Lets you control access to your home with your smartphone. Pair it with the August Doorbell Cam ($199) so you can see and speak to visitors, like service personnel, to decide whether to let them in.

7

leakSMART leak protection kit ($399) Protects your home from water damage by automatically shutting off water to your home if one of its sensors detects a leak. Also, it can send an alert to your smartphone.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate Smart Home Marketplace Survey, Insurance companies, including State Farm and Travelers, now offer discounts if you install smart home devices that reduce the chances of fire, water leaks or burglaries.

4

LIFX Wifi Bulb ($60) Energy-efficient LED light bulb adjusts color and brightness through your smartphone. Also works with Nest products, for example, to dim lighting when a Nest product senses no activity.

WATERCOLOR Inlet beach

300 Pompano Street, Inlet Beach, FL 32461. SqFt 4,160 , 5 bd, 5 ba, 3 1/2 ba. with Pool. New, stunning & elegant, 300 Pompano is truly a builder masterpiece. Pompano comes complete with every finish the coastal luxury buyer is searching for. From the standing seam roof lines to the open living spaces, 300 Pompano has it all. $ 3,640,000

BLUE MOUNTAIN BEACH 134 Blue Lake Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. SqFt 2,450 , 3bd, 3ba, with Pool. This custom cottage is a mastery of architecture and innovative design. It is progressive and minimalistic, yet encompasses the essence of luxury living. 134 Blue Lake is a collaborative effort of design and construction; designed by Stephen Bricker and built by Onno Horn of Domicile. $ 1,395,000

546 E Royal Fern Way, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 This magnificent residence in the coveted Cedar Woods district of Watercolor boasts 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths with exquisite interior and exterior details that can only come from timeless architectural design and meticulous construction. $ 1,425,000

EASTERN LAKE 269 EASTERN LAKE Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459. SqFt 2,200 , 4 bd, 4 ba, with Pool. BAM! This beach beauty looks brand new with an extensive make over!! New paint and lighting inside and out, new furniture and art. This beach house has a great rental income sleeping 14 with easy breezy access 1 block to the sand. $ 1,150,000

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Published bimonthly, Portfolio Florida® and Portfolio 30A® are registered Trademarks. © Copyrights 2017

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Life As it Is - Oil on Canvas, 48"x60" Artist direct Price: $ 2,850 Please contact at info@ArteVue.com

"DEBO" Artist | Santa Rosa Beach | info@ARTEVUE.com | ARTEVUE.COM Also: www.saatchiart.com/Debo

KITCHEN INTERIOR DESIGN

www.siematic.us

33 CINNAMON FERN LANE Wind Song Plan – Lot 55 4 Bed | 3/1 Bath | 2,321 Sq Ft Offered at $589,000

624 SANDGRASS BOULEVARD Custom Plan – Lot 28 4 Bed | 4 Bath | 2,447 Sq Ft Offered at $645,000

CONTACT OUR ON-SITE TEAM ERIC LOFTON

850.225.6643 | eric@bpfla.com

TANIKA O’BRIEN

850.687.1750 | tanika@bpfla.com

780 Sandgrass Blvd, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 www.BeachPropertiesFLA.com/NewHomes/NatureWalk Pricing, features, specifications, availability, and amenities are subject to change without notice. ©2017 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

A World Of Opportunity Richard Westlund

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Photography by Adam Miller

Even in a market in flux, Florida is still the No. 1 choice for global buyers. Here’s what you need to know to capture your share.

When it comes to international real estate sales, Florida still has reason to celebrate. While the market may not be as robust as in previous years, Florida is still the No. 1 state for foreign buyers, according to the 2016 “Profile of International Home Buyers in Florida,” prepared for Florida Realtors® by the Research Division, National Association of Realtors.

Last year, says the study, the state drew 22 percent of the nation’s international residential market. And Florida is starting to look more attractive to foreign buyers from countries that don’t traditionally invest here.

“Florida’s beaches, attractions, golf, boating, restaurants and high-end shopping continue to appeal to visitors and prospective buyers from around the world,” says Christine Pappas, district sales manager of The Keyes Co. In Coral Gables.

However, there are also several trends that could impact sales, including government regulations in China, the value of the British pound and political turmoil in Venezuela.

It’s not just overseas issues that are in play: U.S. immigration policies, new air service, commercial investment opportunities and residential developments could also affect decisions by international buyers and

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Design by O-Style

sellers—both positively and negatively. For instance, Emirates, the airline based in Dubai, launched daily flights between Dubai and Orlando in 2015 and added service to Fort Lauderdale last December. This could make the state more appealing to Mideast buyers.

BUYERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD While Canada, Europe and South America continue to be the leading feeder markets, there is a steady surge in interest from China as well as other Asian countries that are beginning to explore business and investment opportunities here. One indicator of this trend is that the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) is holding its 2017 Global Luxury Summit in Miami, April 2123, the first time this event is being held in Florida.

Understanding trends like these can help you determine where to focus your marketing and help you to better assist your potential international buyers and sellers.

Here is a closer look, country by country: CANADA Canada is enjoying slow but steady economic growth, driven by its oil industry. But home prices are high in many metropolitan areas, making Florida properties relatively affordable for many Canadians. “Even though the Canadian dollar (loonie) is worth less than the U.S. dollar, buyers can purchase a larger property in Florida [than in Canada] at a good price with the potential for appreciation,” says Carla Rayman, broker-associate and

international real estate trainer with Coldwell Banker in Sarasota. “That’s an appealing combination for many Canadians. They can also refinance a property in Canada at a low rate and use that money to buy a vacation home here.”

Sales associates helping Canadian buyers should also be aware that the rules governing that nation’s publicly funded healthcare system may vary from province to province. “After leaving a home province for six, seven or eight months, a Canadian is no longer considered a fulltime resident and must reapply for coverage,” Rayman says. “That’s a hassle that Canadians try to avoid.”

United States tax rules may also apply to Canadians— as well as other international residents—who stay in the country for more than 180 days.

Lisa Treu, team leader of Treu Group Real Estate in Delray Beach, has seen an increase in younger Canadian buyers from Ontario, Quebec and as far away as Vancouver looking for preretirement homes. After buying an investment property, “They stay here for a week or two, play golf and go to the beach, and then fly back home,” she says. “That’s different from the retiree who spends the entire winter season here.”

UNITED KINGDOM Many residents of the United Kingdom are feeling uncertain about investing in real estate in Europe due to their country’s pending 2018 withdrawal from the

European Union (Brexit). “Britons who own vacation homes in Spain or France are unsure of their status [with] regard to taxes and healthcare reciprocity,” says Patricia Tan, a sales associate with Coldwell Banker in Sarasota. “As a result, they’re looking more closely at second homes in Florida.”

However, the weakness of the British pound, compared with the U.S. dollar, has made Florida homes more expensive, Tan adds. “Lifestyle buyers are still coming to Central Florida and the Gulf Coast, but many are looking for less expensive properties [than before]. Others are taking advantage of low U.S. mortgage rates to finance a portion of the cost.”

FRANCE Buyers from France and other European Union countries have been affected by the decline of the euro compared with the dollar, according to Marie-Charlotte Piro, vice president of Viaprestige Real Estate Miami. “Since the currency rate is less favorable, I have seen fewer investors from France and more end users. They are looking for upscale residences, and the quality of the product is more important than the actual rate of return on their investment,” she says.

However, Piro says some French buyers are still interested in investing in businesses and commercial properties.

“We’ve sold restaurants, hair salons, gas stations and rental commercial spaces in the past year,” she says. “Often, these purchases are linked to obtaining a U.S. visa.”

The weak euro has also touched off a wave of selling by French owners of Florida properties. “Many clients who purchased in 2010-12 chose to sell their property last year and did very well with their returns due to appreciation in values and the exchange rate,” she says.

GERMANY Home prices in Germany are rising quickly, driven by a strong economy and a growing number of Mideast refugees. “The main cities are running out of room, and rental flats are getting smaller,” says Christel Silver, broker/owner of Silver International Realty in Delray Beach. “There are also quite a few condo conversion projects under way.”

With rising prices and smaller residences at home, German buyers are finding Florida vacation homes appealing, despite the euro’s unfavorable exchange rate to the U.S. dollar. “While they still tend to buy in Southwest Florida, I’ve seen greater interest in the Atlantic Coast,” Silver says.

SOUTH AMERICA Brazil’s ongoing corruption scandal has led to political infighting and economic instability. “This is a volatile time for Brazil’s government,” says Francisco Angulo, assistant manager of Coldwell Banker in Coral Gables.

“However, the Brazilian real [currency] has been relatively stable. That trend will allow Brazilians to continue seeking investments in Florida.”

In neighboring Argentina, President Mauricio Macri has taken steps to stabilize the nation’s economy, which is expected to grow in 2017 after several years of turmoil.

“Macri’s economic reforms and pro-business attitude are positive signs for the country,” says Angulo.

Most other South American economies appear to be in good shape, including Colombia, Peru and Chile.

“We’ve seen an increase in property searches from those countries,” Angulo adds.

However, Venezuela has suffered serious economic hardships and sky-high inflation under socialist President Nicolás Maduro. As a result, many Venezuelans are applying for visas to come to the United States, says Angulo. South Florida communities like Weston and Doral already have large Venezuelan enclaves, and those neighborhoods are likely to grow. “Many of these newcomers have limited funds and may need to re-establish themselves here before they can [buy] properties,” Angulo says.

CHINA Restrictions on property investments in China, coupled with government currency controls, are increasing Chinese interest in U.S. investments, including those in homes and commercial properties in Florida. “A few years ago, many Chinese did not know where Miami and Orlando were located,” says Don Pingaro, broker-owner of Ocean Insiders & 5iMiami Realty. “Now, we’re definitely on the map.”

In downtown Miami, Hong Kong-based Swire Properties’ $1 billion-plus investment in mixed-use Brickell City Centre has raised Chinese awareness of the opportunities in Florida, says Pappas. “We worked with one Hong Kong buyer who wants to be near the new high-end shops,” she

says. “Other Chinese buyers, comparing prices, see that Miami and Orlando are cheap compared with London and Paris.”

It’s not just Miami and Orlando. A growing flow of visitors and commercial investment from China has increased awareness of smaller markets, like Palm Beach County.

“Pricing is also a factor,” says Treu. “Although a Chinese family might use a residence in Palm Beach or Boca Raton for only a week or two [each year], they like the idea of owning a statement home in Florida.”

Many Chinese buyers are seeking to move some of their capital to the United States, and younger buyers are interested in schools and career opportunities for their children, Pingaro says. The No. 1 hurdle is a Chinese government regulation that effectively caps overseas transfers at $50,000 per year, he adds. Since lenders typically want a 30 to 50 percent down payment from a foreign buyer, several Chinese family members may chip in to finance a Florida purchase.

“China also has prohibitions against married couples buying investment properties there [in China],” Pingaro says. “Down payment requirements have gone up, as the government tries to slow property appreciations in the domestic market.” Those restrictions have led many Chinese to look at investment opportunities in the United States and Canada, including retail centers, multifamily rental buildings and warehouses, he adds. Referring to a U.S. visa program designed to create jobs, Pingaro says EB-5 projects that catered to affluent Chinese investors have lost some of their appeal in the past year, due to delays and problems with obtaining Chinese visa approvals.

OTHER MARKETS Because of Florida’s diverse housing market and broad global appeal, real estate professionals may also want to explore opportunities with other international markets, says Pappas. “We’ve seen an upturn in the number of searches for Miami properties from Russia and India this winter,” she says.

Richard Westlund is a Miami-based freelance writer.

TRENDS AT A GLANCE International buyers accounted for 12 percent of Florida’s residential transactions in 2016.

The strong U.S. dollar makes Florida properties more expensive for many international buyers, but can increase profits for international sellers.

Real estate professionals should pay attention to U.S. visa and immigration regulations that impact foreign buyers and investors.

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How Long Will Your House Last?

A part-by-part guide to the life expectancy of the pieces and systems in your home

Air-Conditioning Unit 10-15 yrs

Furnace 15-18 yrs

Roof (asphalt shingles) 20 yrs

Windows 15-30 yrs

Heat Pump 16 yrs

Exterior Paint up to 15 yrs Home Security System/Smoke Detector 5-10 yrs Electric Switches and Sockets 10+ yrs Toilet Lifetime

Tub/Shower Faucets 20+ yrs

Carpeting 8-10 yrs Kitchen Cabinets 50 yrs

Shower Enclosure 50 yrs

Kitchen Faucet 15 yrs

Whirlpool Tub 20-50 yrs

Microwave Oven 9 yrs

Kitchen Sink (enamel-coated steel) 5-10 yrs

Wood Deck 10-15 yrs

Wood or Stone Flooring 100 yrs

Dishwasher 9 yrs

Range 13-15 yrs

Garbage Disposal 12 yrs Dryer 13 yrs

Garage Door Opener 10-15 yrs Driveway (asphalt) 15-20 yrs

Refrigerator 13 yrs Washing Machine 10 yrs

Source: National Association of Home Builders/Bank of America Equity Study of Life Expectancy of Home Components

AndersenÂŽ windows come in styles, shapes and sizes to fit any purpose and every personality.

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andersenwindows.com

“Discover the Coastal Lifestyle”

BeachWalk Vacations offers vacation accommodations along Florida’s beautiful Emerald Coast from the coastal villages of 30A to the Destin Harbor. Reserve your perfect vacation today! www.BeachwalkVacations.com 30A | Destin BeachWalk Vacation Properties O: 850.460.9333 215 Grand Blvd. Suite 101 Miramar Beach, FL 32550

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Professional property marketing on a local,regional, national and international level.

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A strategy for success The

30A Lister understands moving home is one of the most important decisions you can make; your home is both a financial and emotional investment.

We take the instruction to sell your home as a privilege, an honour and as a very serious commitment to you. Through excellent marketing, we deliver an efficient sales process and a courteous, careful service.

The more expensive property demands a more extensive presentation in order to enhance the character of the property, the location, the area, the facilities and the lifestyle – for all prospective buyers.

The widespread exposure of your property is crucial.

In today’s market not only is the mobility of buyers greater than ever, but also the ways in which they may access information.

Your prospective buyer could come from, quite literally, anywhere - through local and regional marketing, through national newspapers and magazines or, internationally using the interactive technologies such as the internet and mobile phones.

Instruct us and you could benefit from our knowledge, experience, expertise and contacts and our well trained, educated and courteous staff. You are assisted, advised and informed through each stage of the whole transaction.

“Sophisticated, intelligent and creative marketing that provides the type of information buyers would never normally see – it is a case of presenting and promoting your property as if it were our own.”

Contact us today!

850. 889 8858 30ALister.com info@30ALister.com Keller Williams Emerald Coast 3925 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459

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Priceless [30A Luxury Homes]

World-class homes and cottages, most beautiful white-sand beaches, amazing sunsets, watersports, endless views, family fun, wonderful dining options, unbelievable investments, are all part of the experience you live with on 30A.

When it comes to Luxury Homes When to buy? Where to buy?

How can I make sure I’m getting a good deal?

These are the questions I can help you answer. I am calm, sophisticated, a great negotiator and I will negotiate the best deals for you.

As a Real Estate investor myself, I have been buying and selling houses, and successfully investing in profitable vacation rental properties for many years.

Take advantage of my knowledge.

In my previous business life as a CEO, I have built marketing companies from the ground up to multimillion $ operations. The knowledge in that field will also benefit my Clients when it comes to marketing their property.

Contact me today:

Sven J. Bode

RealtorÂŽ

The 30A-Lister 850. 889 8858 sven@30ALister.com facebook.com/30ALister 30ALister.com

Keller Williams Emerald Coast 3925 W County Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459