The City of Coral Gables is known for it’s variety of restaurants and shops, beautifully manicured public spaces and overall sophistication. One aspect often overlooked is the growing art community within the city.
In an effort to bring together Gables residents as well as visitors and other South Floridians, there is a gathering set up for the first Friday of every month, called Gables Gallery Walk. On this special night, over 4,000 aficionados will walk to local art galleries located within the blocks to the north and south of Miracle Mile, to view works of art by various artists from all over the world. Shuttles are provided as well as free appetizers at occasional stops.
To review the list of participating galleries, see this link, http://www.coralgables.com/CGWeb/fineart.aspx.
After you enjoy the galleries, head over to Giralda Under the Stars, also occuring the first Friday of every month, 6PM to midnight, located on the 100 block of Giralda Avenue between Ponce de Leon Blvd and Galiano Street. Alfresco dining and entertainment will abound at Coral Gables Downtown Restaurant Row where you can get a fantastic dinner and enjoy some live entertainment.
Here is a list of participating restaurants: Bangkok Bangkok II, Castellucio Ristorante, La Dorada, Las Vegas Restaurant, Miss Saigon Bistro, Las Lenas Argentinian Steakhouse, Mister Wings, The Bar, Talavera, Spris Restaurant, Il Grissino, The Local (coming soon).
Click here for more information, http://www.gableshomepage.com/events/giralda-under-stars.
6000 SW 108 Street Pinecrest, Florida
In one of the best locations of Pinecrest, an already sought-after community, lies a fantastic opportunity. A 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom ranch style home that has been perfectly maintained over the years. It’s ready to move in right now, or can be renovated to a buyer’s taste, as they see fit.
This home sits on a 33,541 square foot lot on the corner of 108th Street and 60th Avenue. When you enter the front door you are greeted by 8 ft high ceilings and a large living area or “great room” with a stone fireplace and gorgeous, original black terrazo floors. Several large sliding glass doors offer an immediate view of the screened pool and patio and expansive lawn beyond. The kitchen is a good size with plenty of storage and though a bit dated, is perfectly clean. The bedrooms are located on the other end of the home, they are well-proportioned, with plenty of closet space. There is a 2 car garage with bathroom and work bench. The roof is only 5 years old.
A new listing to the market, as of two days ago, and we’ve already had over 5 showings. It likely won’t last long on the market as this is such a desirable location. Whomever the lucky buyer is for this home will get to enjoy a wonderful neighborhood, one of the best school districts in South Florida, a beautiful yard and a cozy family home that they can enjoy as is or update.
If you would like more information about this home or any of my other listings, please contact me here.
Homestead Championship Rodeo
Get your boots, chaps, and lassoe ready because there’s going to be a hoedown! Cowboys and cowgirls will be gathering in Homestead to participate in the 62nd Annual Rodeo Championship. Hosted by the Homestead Rodeo Association, you can expect to see a variety of riding, roping and racing. Bulls and broncos, yeeee haww!
When: Friday 8PM, Saturday 2PM, Sunday 2PM
Where: Doc’ De Milly Rodeo Arena at Harris Field, US1 & Campbell Drive
Cost: $15 for Adults, $5 for Children
For more info visit: www.homesteadrodeo.com
Dishing it up! Tour of Kitchens
Hungry for some action in Coral Gables? Take a tour of tastings. This self- guided tour will lead you through some of the most fabulous private kitchens in North Gables, where you will experience food demonstrations and delicious tastings from some of our most well known local chefs. What restaurants can you expect to participate in this event? Morton’s, Seasons 52, Angelique Euro Cafe, Pardo’s Peruvian Cuisine, Talavera, and Peterbrooke Chocolatier. Hosted by CoralGables@HOME this fundraiser is sure to be a treat.
When: Saturday 9AM- 1PM
Where: Snaidero Kitchens + Design showroom, 4110 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Cost: $35 in advance, $45 at the door
Shakespeare in the Park
Feeling romantic? The tale of star crossed lovers is returning to Coconut Grove. This classical production features professional acting, period costumes, live music and dance. Have a picnic while you watch Romeo and Juliet under the stars.
When: Friday 8PM, Saturday 8PM, Sunday 2PM & 8PM
Where: Shell Lumber, 2733 SW 27 Avenue
Cost: FREE! Chairs available for rent $1
For more info visit: www.shakespearemiami.com
Jazz at Pinecrest Gardens
Feeling a bit more up- tempo? Enjoy a night of jazzy tunes in the Village of Pinecrest. Listen to the sounds of the Rodriguez Brothers, influenced by Afro- Cuban and traditional jazz elements. These piano and trumpet players, were born in New York and schooled in Miami. Arrive early to enjoy the botanical surroundings and garden delights.
When: Saturday 8PM; Gates open at 6PM
Where: Banyan Bowl in Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Road
Cost: $18 & $23
For more info visit: www.pinecrest-fl.gov
Are you looking to start up a new business or expand your existing one?
4820 SW 72 Avenue Miami, FL 33155
Great Square Footage at a Great Price. One of the few units available for purchase, it is also one of the largest. Currently being used as a mixed-use space there is an air-conditioned reception area, office and 2 bathrooms. The largest portion of the facility is in the rear, with 2 bay doors being used for storage and work stations.
Surrounded by all types of thriving businesses, this unit is uncomparable to others on the market; offering an outstanding location, versatility of use and opportunity.
Location, Location, Location
- Exposure on SW 72 Ave (58 ft of office frontage to be exact!)
- 1 mile from Palmetto Expressway
- Near Bird Road Art District
- Minutes from South Miami & Coral Gables
Versatility
- Mixed- use condo
- Warehouse/ office/ retail/ showroom
- Extra office space (potential build out on mezzanine level)
- 2 bay doors for loading
Opportunity
- Purchase at Market Price
- Largest unit available (2 in 1) 4,581 sq. ft.
- Expand in the future (lease out a portion until your ready)
- 10 assigned parking spaces (+ 4 rear parking)
Are you interested in making a good investment for your business? Would you like to know more about Marina Lakes or the options this unit has to offer? Please do not hesitate to contact me here.
Wondering what those hot pinks snails are?
These snails are slowly but surely making their way through Miami. Displayed first at Art Basel, they’ve made their way from trendy South Beach to the heart of Coral Gables. Resting in places like the Cartagena Plaza, Merrick Park, Biltmore Way, and other locations for us all to see.
Here with a Message
These 8 foot tall snails are not just bold with their color, but with the message
they bring. Currently resting in ”City Beautiful”, these over- sized creatures are here to remind us to not just keep our city beautiful, but also our planet. (They’ve come all the way from Europe courtesy of the Cracking Art Group.) Completely made of recycled plastic materials, they are here to promote sustainable living.
They’ve caused quite the stir, some people loving them and others not. Bringing a kind and positive message, I say we enjoy and embrace their stay.
Rumor has it we can expect to spot mini versions of these snails at local Miracle Mile businesses. Keep an eye out for a snail near you.
If you are looking for a home:
- with “great bones” and tons of potential for renovations to your taste,
- in a wonderful lush and tropical neighborhood,
- in an great public school district
This home might be the perfect fit.
6525 SW 134 Drive Pinecrest, Florida
Upon entering the front door you pass through the formal foyer and to the left is the spacious, sunken living room with fireplace, and formal dining room to the right. Additionally, there is the extra long “great room” with a wall of windows and french doors leading to the patio and pool. As if that isn’t already a ton of living space, there is also a family room off the kitchen as well.
New, large impact windows permit streaming light into the house. The home has a split bedroom plan and all of the bedrooms are large. The private master suite is on one side of the house, which includes a dressing area and bath. Two of the three bathrooms have already been updated.
In the two car garage a temporary fifth bedroom was constructed for a live-in housekeeper, with a full bathroom as well. Plus there is additional parking under an awning outside of the garage or in the circular driveway.
The backyard is simply magical…though it’s ready for a little pruning there are various stone grottos, fountains, archways, and a wooden pathway that winds through the ancient oak trees. In addition there is an open, grassy space for a playground and in the side yard a basketball (half) court. The pool is screened and has a covered patio area, perfect for entertaining out of the sun or for kids to play on a rainy day.
The community of Devonwood is one of the most highly sought-after neighborhoods in Pinecrest. There is a relatively low-cost yearly association and police security surveillance. Contact me here for additional information about this listing or any others you are interested in.
Don’t forget to file for Florida’s Homestead Exemption
New Year, New Saving! If you purchased your home in 2010, the following information could benefit you, where you want it most…YOUR WALLET.
For any new homeowners out there, I hope you all enjoyed your new homes this holiday season. With the tax season ahead of us, now is the time to file for your Homestead Exemption. This is something every homeowner should do with their primary residence, it being a large discount on your taxes-why wouldn’t you?
You may be eligible to claim up to $50,000.
This exemption is a benefit to you when the end of the year real estate property taxes are calculated. Think of it as Uncle Sam’s gift to you! If you purchased a home during 2010 and it is your primary residence as of January 1, 2011 then you automatically qualify for the initial $25,000 exemption. This amount is subtracted from your home’s assessed value, reducing your taxable amount for ALL taxing authorities. (Your home’s assessed value is determined by the Miami-Dade Property Appraiser Department).
For homes assessed at a value greater than $50,000 you may claim the extra $25,000. However, this will exclude school board taxes.
The deadline to file is March 1, 2011.
All property tax exemption applications and supporting documents are due on or before March 1. It can be filed in person or by mail. Required documents include proof of ownership and proof of Florida residency. Non-citizens will need to provide proof of US Residency.
If you would like to download the application form and view more information on required documents, I have provided the link below.
Visit: http://www.miamidade.gov/pa/exemptions_homestead.asp
This Weekend… Hot? Cold? Maybe both!
This Saturday Miami is expected to have some cool weather, but it’s expected to be hot, hot, hot in Cutler Bay. So hot, that our local fire fighters will be there! Chefs will be coming from all over town to participate in the 2nd Annual Chili Cook-off. Residents, businesses, community groups, and even chefs from our fire department will be showing off their secret recipes. Free Chili!
Community Fun
Not a big fan of chili? There will also be contests for the best cornbread and salsa. This is a great event to enjoy with friends and family. There will be live music and children activities. Vote for your favorite dishes and help those hardworking chefs win a cash reward or trophy.
Don’t worry about your mouth watering, there will be plenty of refreshments and other foods available for purchase.
Who: Everyone is welcomed.
When: January 8, 2011 from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Cutler Ridge Park; 10100 SW 200 Street
Why: Because it’s fun!
Let me know what you think of the chili cookoff.
As you will recall in my recent blog, “What is a short sale?”, I explained the basics of short sales.
Even though it is popular topic in the news, there is still a lot of mystery and gray area surrounding it. So, it’s easy for misinformation to spread. Today I want to clarify three myths I often hear.
Myth #1
In a short sale situation, the bank owns the home.
This is incorrect. That is the case with a foreclosure, which is when a lender has repossessed a home from the owner, as a result of continued loan default, and is selling it in order to recover their loss on the loan. A short sale is when a homeowner decides to sell their home, usually as a result of a hardship like a job loss, due to the fact that they are no longer able to pay their mortgage. In this situation, the homeowner is “upside down,” meaning they owe more on the loan than their home’s current market value. When we go to sell the property the short sale lender has the option to accept or reject a “short payoff”. But the seller still owns the home and they get the final say as to whether they will accept a buyers offer and their lender’s short sale offer as well.
Myth #2
Short sales take up to 1 year to proceed to closing.
Well…sometimes this is true, but very uncommon. It depends on a lot of factors. Every lender is different. Sometimes sellers do not cooperate. And there are a lot of hurdles to get through with a short sale, often times adding to the amount of time needed to get to closing. Though over the last 6 months my team and I have noticed a considerable difference in the speed and efficiency of the process with most lenders. I’ve seen short sales close as quickly as 30 days and take as long as 1 year. Every situation has it’s own set of circumstances and challenges, but if you are patient and have the option to wait, it can often pay off for both a seller and a buyer.
Myth #3
If you sell your home as a short sale the lender will forgive your debt.
This is entirely up to the lender in question. Once they accept the short sale offer, and send the final short sale approval letter, it contains all of the terms of the sale and how the proceeds will be distributed. At that time, they can request the seller pay back a portion of the loan through a promissory note or a cash contribution at closing. Or the letter may state that the debt has been forgiven. It is the seller’s responsibility to make sure they get in writing, from the bank, that the debt is forgiven in it’s entirety. That is the only way they can be sure they won’t encounter additional debt collections down the road.
If you are considering selling your home or buying a home, and you have questions about short sales, I would be happy to speak with you. Please contact me here. I always recommend a seller consult a real estate attorney and their accountant regarding the possible risks associated with this type of sale. It’s not for everyone, but it could be a good solution to your situation.
Another Opportunity to Live in Serenity
20030 Cutler Court
This lovely 3 bedroom/ 2 bath Cutler Bay home is located in the Serenity development which is in the north eastern part of Cutler Bay, just south of Palmetto Bay, right off Old Cutler Road. The walled-in community offers privacy and curb appeal and is composed of newer homes. Built in 1998, like other homes in the neighborhood, it was made ”hurricane ready” (post Hurricane Andrew building code) and with an attractive design.
The interior features an open layout with bright living areas, volume ceilings, and crown molding throughout. The eat-in kitchen and breakfast area are spacious, open to the family room. Perfect for entertaining. French doors in the living room lead you to the patio, which is quite charming, currently furnished with a little bistro table and plants hanging from a trellis; the perfect place to have coffee in the morning or watch the kids play in the spacious back yard. The master bedroom and bath are a treat; the bedroom has a walk in closet and access to the patio and there are dual sinks, tub, and shower in the bathroom.
Distinct from other homes in the area, this property is located on an over-sized lot of almost 20,000 square feet! Landscaped, the yard has plenty of room to install a pool and patio, and even a kids swingset. And there is space to park a boat which is perfect considering you are a short drive away from Black Point Marina where you can access Biscayne Bay.
Make Serenity your home.
You may remember I have another listing in on the same street, at 20000 Cutler Court. You can click here to learn more about that home as well.
If you would like to explore the options of buying a home or would like to see one of my listings in Cutler Bay, please do not hesitate to contact me.
