Melrose of Ormond Beach, FL

As a realtor, sometimes I run across a community which is so perfectly suited to its surroundings, so livable, that it occupies a special place in your mind when foks ask about relocation to the Daytona Beach area.

Melrose of Ormond Beach is one of my special places. Bordering the Halifax River, Melrose offers waterfront - riverfront homes - in the price range of the high $800,000s to well over a million. The homes are gracious residences with large lots and access to the river, some with boat docks, most with views across the Halifax to Oceanside. The community was designed, or has become, water-oriented, so homeowners who buy there want to enjoy Ormond Beach waterfront real estate. If you don't have a boat, you can watch the yachts motor by, watch the play of sun on water, or rise to gorgeous sunrises.

Across E. Granada Blvd, a main street of Melrose, is the Oceanside Country Club. From the club's home page: "The Oceanside experience is casual elegance through friendly service, quality food and spirits, challenging golf and tennis, or just relaxing by the pool. Located in Ormond Beach, nestled between the Halifax River and the ocean, this private club is unique in location and style." The original golf course was designed by P. F. Seabloom in 1907 and has recently been renovated by Bobby Weed. There are 9 tennis courts, an oversized pool, restaurant, and many social events. Oceanside is home to SALLY, the Women’s South Atlantic Amateur Championship. The SALLY, which dates back to 1926, is usually held in January.

Not far from Melrose, toward the west, are the Tomoka Oaks Golf Club, and Nova Recreation Complex, 400 North Nova Road, with a sports complex, playground, and picnic tables.

Just a few blocks from Melrose, on the river, is River Front Park, 1 South Beach St, which features a fishing pier, bait shop and boat launch. And don't forget the fishing along with all the other recreational opportunities on the Halifax River!

Here are 2 homes for sale in Melrose of Ormond Beach, just a sample of the style and quality of the community. Set up your personal Ormond Beach MLS search for waterfront or riverfront homes, or just contact me and I'll do one for you.

546 S Beach is the quintessential plantation-style home of gracious southern living. The home is 4647 sq ft, but total living area is 7,156 sq ft. It fronts the river, with a pool, boat house and boat dock, and includes an in-law suite, irrigation well, veranda overlooking the water, and so much more, on a lot of 39,634 sq ft. This is a wonderful opportunity to own a large riverfront home in Ormond Beach. Listed at $1,100,000.


138 S Beach is a custom riverfront Ormond Beach home with every attention to detail. Built in 1993 by a commercial builder, the elegant home is 2858 sq ft, with a total living area of 4058 sq ft. It also fronts the Halifax River, has a detached workshop, irrigation well, 10' ceilings and tile floors throughout. There are guest quarters on the 2nd level with kitchenette, the lot is 20,800 sq ft, and includes riparian rights to the river. Listed at $895,000.


If these interest you, visit the Waterfront page on my web site for details on riverfront and oceanfront communities in the Daytona Beach area. Now is a great time to find bargain prices for these homes. There is only so much waterfront real estate in Florida, and the prices are the best in years. Think of living in Melrose on the Halifax River in Ormond Beach. If you see yourself in that lifestyle, call or email me and I can help you find a home in this special place.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-67903191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/

New Hospital Coming to Ormond Beach FL

The new Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center off Williamson Blvd. will open July 14. This replacement hospital will be the area’s most comprehensive facility, featuring the expansion of many services already available and adding new and exciting features.

Short Facts (from the new facility's web site):

The Greening of the Campus - Landscaping for the Medical Center will contain 82 Palms, 432 trees and 55,115 shrub & groundcover plants.

The Greening of the Interior - The 7,451 square yards of carpet installed in the new hospital earned 118 tons of Verified Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Credits, equal to keeping 20 passenger cars off the road.

Big is Beautiful - The site for the Medical Center covers 135 acres, about the size of 102 football fields.

Well-Connected- -The Inpatient Tower and Medical Office Building are “hinged” together by the elliptical glass element.

A Healing, Natural Environment - Retention ponds are utilized as water features along with preservation of wetlands.

A One-Stop Cardio Shop - The third floor Cardiovascular Center has a combined prep area for cardiac catheterizations, endovascular and CV surgery.

Quick n’ Comprehensive - Emergency services include three nurses stations, with eight of the 53 private treatment rooms segregated into a Fast-Track location.

Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center Campus

Campus Acreage - 135 acres

Square Footage - 718,000 square feet

Patient Floors - 10 Patient Floors, 12 Floors Total

Private Patient Rooms - All private rooms

Total In-Patient Beds - 277 licensed beds

Operating Rooms/Same Day Surgery - 11 General ORs; 3 Cardiovascular ORs;1 Endovascular/Hybrid OR

Critical Care Patient Rooms - 46

Cardiac Cath Labs - 5

Emergency Department Bays - 53 Total (42 Main; 8 Fast Track; 3 Trauma)

BirthCare Center - 32

Nursery Beds - 10

CT Scanners - Siemens Somatom Sensation 16 CT Scanner;Siemens Somatom Dual Source 64 Slice CT Scanner

Telemetry/IntermediateCare Rooms - 210 beds have telemetry; 108 are designated as step-down or intermediate care beds

Parking Spaces - 1,200+

This will be a state-of-the-art facility. Even more reason to relocate to Ormond Beach, and contact me for real estate market information in the Ormond Beach area. Here's a link to Search the Ormond Beach MLS while you are calling me.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/

530 Scott Drive in Broderick of Ormond Beach, Home for Sale

This 4 bedroom/4 bath pool home in Ormond Beach is in the community of Broderick of Ormond Beach, not far from the Tomoka River, the Tomoka Oaks Golf Club, the River Bend Golf Club, the Nova Recreation Complex, and the Trails Shopping Center. Broderick is an exclusive enclave tucked in behind a nice family type/retiree area of single family properties close to everything in Ormond Beach. The houses enjoy large lots and square footage. Not many homes come on the market in Broderick of Ormond Beach, and this beautiful home is one of the best prices available.

An elegant 4 br, 4 ba home this residence offers a very private setting on approximately ¾ acre lot. Feel the spaciousness as you enter the grand foyer with Italian Travertine marble flooring throughout the first level. The Great Room has elaborate lighted built-ins with fireplace & wiring for any & all electronics. The banquet size formal dining room has a 12 ft. built-in custom buffet/server with granite top. Indulge in the gourmet kitchen featuring sophisticated custom high gloss cabinetry with under and over cabinet lighting, granite countertops and backsplashes, stainless steel appliances including 3 GE Monogram convections ovens, Viking range hood, refrigerator, dual dishwashers & sinks, center island, breakfast bar & breakfast nook.

The large laundry room includes an extra smooth top range and side by side refrigerator. This home was truly built for entertaining! Pamper yourself in the gracious master suite with a luxurious master bath featuring his & her cherry wood vanities, granite countertops, Jacuzzi tub, marbled tiled tandem shower & fabulous walk-in closet with complete custom built-ins. Stunning front staircase leads to upstairs quarters with 3 spacious bedrooms, two baths & 25x27 bonus room. Plenty of storage space inside & out with the oversized 3 car garage. The property is beautifully landscaped and includes a large in-ground pool with Jacuzzi jets at one end.

Enjoy the slideshow below, and visit my Ormond Beach web site for information on many of the unique communities in our Daytona Beach area and to search the Ormond Beach MLS. Contact me for real estate market data on Broderick, or a private preview of this Ormond Beach home for sale.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Home for Sale in Halifax Plantation, Ormond Beach, FL

Not long ago I wrote about the stunning community of Halifax Plantation, a very special master-planned community with golf, tennis, trails, and close to two state parks, in Ormond Beach, FL.

The home featured here, on Kiowa Lane, is 4 bedrooms/4 baths, 3516 sq ft, with a screened pool, 3-car garage, central air and heat, over .5 acre, with a bonus room and deck. Appliances include dishwasher, disposal, microwave, and range. There are ceiling fans, intercom, jacuzzi/hot tub, and security system. HOA is $40/month. Asking price is $479,900 and it is bank-owned.

This like-new executive home on large wooded lot in cul-de-sac has a brick paver driveway and features quality details: high ceilings, crown molding, architectural niches, and decorative tile inset. The gourmet kitchen has cherry cabinets with granite countertops and top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. The beautiful screen-enclosed pool and spa back to a private setting.

Halifax Plantation in Ormond Beach is one of the most sought-after addresses in our area. The grounds are beautiful, the community friendly, and the amenities the best you would want. Take a look at the slideshow below and you'll see a typical Halifax Plantation home. Then visit my Ormond Beach web site for more details on homes for sale in Halifax Plantation of Ormond Beach.

Contact me for a private showing, or real estate market information.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Tips for Ormond Beach Home Buyers

June is National Homeownership Month. This year, with our country's economic challenges and the many incentives for 1st time buyers to own a home, the label takes on more meaning. Even with the low interest rates and tax credit, there are a growing number of obstacles for home buyers, including a higher credit score standard and more restrictions on credit. But, home loans are still available to credit-worthy buyers.

Here are a few things for buyers of Ormond Beach properties to consider:

1. Learn about the 1st-time Buyer programs, such as the tax credit on your 2009 taxes and local Florida and Volusia County incentives (just email me, I can help with this information).

2. Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. Pre-approval means you have applied for a loan and the lender tells you how much home you can buy. This saves you time, your lender time, and - of course - your realtor time. And that tax credit is only good until Nov. 30, 2009.

3. Be honest with your lender and yourself. Lots of folks are now upside down on their mortgages because they purchased more home with a larger mortgage than they could afford. Visit the mortgage calculator page on my web site to run the numbers.

4. Review the additional costs of homeownership over and above the mortgage and add those into your monthly bills. Whatever utilities have been paid by your landlord will now be your responsibility - sewer, garbage, taxes - in addition to utilities, homeowner's association fees, and more.

5. Be sure you understand the basics of the loan you choose before you pay any fees. What is the origination fee? Is there a prepayment penalty? What will the total fees be at closing that you are responsible to pay? How much can you legally ask a seller to pay for you? Any reputable mortgage lender will make sure these important items in your loan are explained to you thoroughly.

6. Know your credit score before you start shopping for a home or loan. You can get one free report annually and another for a small fee later. If you have issues on your report - especially if the late payments are not yours - they will take some time to clear off your record. To obtain a free copy of your credit report, visit www.annualcreditreport.com.

7. When you are ready to apply for a loan, be prepared. Don't waste your time and the lender's time - you will need 2 years of pay stubs, 2 years of tax returns, copies of monthly bills such as credit cards and car payments, and any additional information on your finances - such as proof of additional income (child support, alimony).

After writing these tips for Ormond Beach buyers, I realize that I can help you with every step of the process, from figuring out how much home you can buy to how to pay for it and what the total costs will be. And then, I can show you the houses you choose and guide you through the purchase process into your Ormond Beach home.

Remember, realtors are free for buyers - it is the seller who pays. Would you write a complex legal document without a lawyer? Probably not. So use a Realtor for your home purchase, at no cost to you. Contact me soon.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

SBA Opening Center in Volusia County

The U.S. Small Business Administration announced that a Business Recovery Center will be established to help businesses impacted by the recent severe storms, flooding and tornadoes in Volusia County. The Center opened June 10.

Through the disaster declaration, Volusia County is eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Small businesses, and most private non-profit organizations in the following adjacent counties, are eligible to apply only for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans: Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Orange, Putnam and Seminole in Florida.

Businesses and non-profit organizations of any size may borrow up to $2 million for physical losses. For small businesses, and most private non-profit organizations of all sizes, the SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage.

Interest rates are as low as 4 percent for businesses with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Here are the details on the center:

Volusia CountyHolly Hill Community Recreational Center
Multipurpose Room #1
1046 Daytona Avenue
Holly Hill, FL 32117
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday - Friday

Disaster loan information and application forms may be obtained by calling the SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the hearing impaired), Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., EDT, or by sending an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Business loan applications can also be downloaded from the SBA website at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.

Completed applications should be mailed to: U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX. 76155. Businesses may apply for disaster loans from SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

If you find yourself a a fix with your mortgage because of storm damage to your business, give me a call. I'm a Certfied Distressed Property Expert and can discuss your options with you.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Springtime with the Manatees in Ormond Beach

Tuesday morning, along the marshes of Old Dixie Highway in Ormond Beach, a group of sea cows in their mating ritual attracted dozens of onlookers. In the Spring, groups of males will pursue a female relentlessly, sometimes forcing her to beach on a shoreline to rest and recover. All this raucous behavior brought out the locals to watch the goings-on.

Christy Hudak, a biologist with the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, said it's OK to watch from a distance, but that you shouldn't bother the protected animals in the water.

Manatees mate from spring to fall and give birth to a single baby - or rarely, twins - 13 months later. Call the wildlife commission at 888-404-3922 if you see manatees mating or beached.

Visit my Ormond Beach web site for Ormond Beach news and real estate information. I live and work here, and offer a free Relocate to Ormond Beach package - just email or call me for a copy.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Make Your Ormond Beach Home Work for You

Now is a great time to make some improvements to your Ormond Beach home. The weak economy has brought down contractor and material prices and retailers are offering big discounts on appliances and lighting. As soon as you improve your home's energy efficiency - even if that means new light bulbs in your Ormond Beach condo - you will see a change in your energy bills. Many energy-efficient upgrades also qualify for federal tax credits. Check with our local utility also - they may offer additional incentives for replacing old appliances.

Some examples of how you can save money, as reported in On Investing, by Schwab & Company:

20% = amount saved on heating and cooling costs by sealing and insulating the shell or envelope of your home

80.4% = costs recouped at sale for installing foam-backed vinyl siding

$100 = annual savings for a typical family installing a gas Energy Star tankless water heater

77.7% = costs recouped at sale for installing wood replacement windows

(source: Hanley Wood, Cost vs Value Report, 2008-2009)

The National Assn. of Realtors also publishes yearly an extensive report on which home improvements will bring the greatest return. Contact me for a free copy.

Think Energy Star

If you plan to replace appliances, try if at all possible to purchase Energy Star-qualified products. They use 10% to 50% less energy. Energy Star appliances include dishwashers, refrigerators, cordless telephones, and TVs. Visit EnergyStar.gov.

Think Efficiency

$600 - $1200 is the amount the government's Home Energy Saver website says you can save annually by improving your home's energy efficiency. Visit HomeEnergySaver.gov.

Learn How to Save More

There are plenty of books and magazines on the subject, but here are 3 books on energy-efficient renovation:

Green Remodeling: Changing the World One Room at a Time, David R. Johnston and Kim Master
Green Building & Remodeling for Dummies, Eric Corey Freed
The Homeowner's Handbook to Energy Efficiency: A Guide to Big and Small Improvements, John Krigger and Chris Dorsi

If you need references for local Ormond Beach professionals who can help you with remodeling projects, let me know. I'm the Relocation Expert for Ormond Beach, and live and work in our community.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
www.sherryarmstrong.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Ormond Beach FL Hires Ombudsman

As reported in the News-Journal Online, Ormond Beach has hired an ombudsman to help residents who have experienced problems from the heavy rains and flooding.

"The Ormond Beach City Commission, during a special meeting Tuesday night, approved hiring attorney Charles Cino to serve as an ombudsman to help residents with legal questions relating to the flooding.

Cino would help residents with things such as paperwork, answering legal questions and advising them where to go for help. Cino would not represent them in any legal actions. The City Commission approved paying him up to $25,000 for his work. They also approved paying an environmental consultant, who has not been named yet, up to $25,000 to help residents with issues such as mold.

The city will also give residents who have been displaced from their homes by the flooding a tax abatement.

In the future, Ormond Beach will also allow residents to pick up more than 10 sandbags per trip as long as they sign a waiver. During the storm, the city limited residents to 10 sandbags because of concerns over the liability should the weight of the bags damage vehicles."

If you are concerned about how the flooding or damage will affect your real estate values, contact me to discuss your problems. I've been selling real estate in Ormond Beach for many years and know the communities and real estate values.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

An Affordable Green Home in Ormond Beach FL

After our deluge of the last few days, it makes you think more about the weather and your interaction with the natural environment. While we can't change weather patterns, there are modifications we can make to our Ormond Beach homes so they will be greener and more in tune with our tropical climate. Here is a list I found in the latest Honolulu magazine, which is by no means all-inclusive, and applies to both condos and single family properties. Some are easy and cheap, others require an investment in your home.

1. Place potted plants throughout your home to improve indoor air quality.
2. Use Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood floors - this wood comes from socially and environmentally-grown forests.
3. Install a faucet and/or shower aerator, which mixes air with your water. You'll use half as much water as before.
4. If you have A/C, raise the thermostate one degree or more. Better yet, turn it off and open the windows as often as possible.
5. Use organic linens, towels, curtains, and upholstery fabric, and buy organic clothes when available.
6. Set up an in-home recycling center and make it a habit. You'll be amazed how much your garbage decreases.
7. Use reclaimed furniture (as in Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle).
8. Use all-natural, non-toxic cleaning products (like vinegar).
9. Plant an organic garden for your own use - everything from herbs to fruits and vegetables can be grown in containers or a small yard.
10. Control pests naturally with home remedies. Canola oil, dish soap, and citronella are good insect repellants.
11. Insulate your water heater and exposed pipes to limit heat loss.
12. Insulate your attic for the same reason.

Buying green and living green are becoming more and more important. Contact me for resources in our Ormond Beach area.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com

Plantation Bay in Ormond Beach FL

Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club, in Ormond Beach, is a very prestigious address. Developed by ICI Homes, this private community offers such amenities as two clubhouses, a magnificent 7,000 square-foot Spa and Fitness Center, and 10 tennis courts. With two 18-hole private, championship golf courses, a tennis facility, two restaurants and the pool, there is a wide array of membership choices. Plantation Bay offers a lifestyle, not just a home.

* Tennis anyone? Beautiful clay courts surrounded with high hedges of wisteria make the courts at Plantation Bay special.
* The community is gated and secure for your piece of mind.
* All of the communities are all geared for family living enjoyment, with safe environments for a family to take advantage of every day.
* Enjoy peaceful nature areas surrounding the communities. Lakes and large trees invite the wonderful Florida wildlife to your neighborhood.
* Community events in Plantation Bay include Rubber Bridge/Lunch, the Garden Club, a Social Club that meets quarterly, Beginner's Tennis, special events at the Prestwick Restaurant, Yoga/Water Aerobics/Pilates classes, and a Line Dancing group.

The Plantation Bay Golf Experience

Plantation Bay offers 45 gorgeous holes that are sure to challenge and delight every player at any level. Members are presented with lush fairways, undulating greens, and a service oriented staff to ensure a great golfing experience. Being one of the areas only golf communities that allows privately owned carts, a hassle free ride home is all that is required to complete your day at the club.

* The Club de Bonmont Course is famous for 18 matchless holes. With its recent renovation by world recognized architect Steve Smyers in 2005, the beauty and layout has the wow factor every time you step on the tee.
* The Westlake Course, the newest addition to the Plantation Bay golf experience, is a masterfully sculpted nine holes that is tied into the Club de Bonmont course to create 27 holes of pure enjoyment. With the 2nd nine to the course in the planning stage, Westlake is sure to be great compliment to the two other 18 holes offered at Plantation Bay.
* The Prestwick Course offers an outstanding championship layout with impressive playing conditions and superb amenities. The course is a shotmakers dream. With a premium on hitting your target, it is sure to challenge any level of golfer.

Provided by ICI, here is a sampling neighborhoods and prices:

Prestwick Estates $260,000-$395,200
Prestwick VI, VII, VIII $190,400-$254,900
Prestwick Townhomes $232,900-$257,100
Preswick Townhomes II $271,900-$282,100
Westlake $330,300-$374,400
Woodbridge Estates $285,900-$433,000

New construction is available in Prestwick IX, Prestwick Townhomes II, Westlake, and Westlake Townhomes. There are many resales also for sale, ranging in price from $699,000 to $165,000. You can see there is a home for every pocketbook and family size.

Contact me for more information on the quality community of Plantation Bay. I'm the Relocation Specialist for Ormond Beach and can help you with new construction or a home for resale. Visit the Plantation Bay page on my web site for links and more data on home prices, and use the widget below to search homes for sale in Plantation Bay.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Cash for Keys Available Now in Ormond Beach

As an additional feature of the mortgage rescue program, the Treasury Dept. has announced it will offer an incentive called "Cash for Keys" to help troubled borrowers get out from under the mortgages they can no longer afford.

Under the original Making Home Affordable program, homeowners are eligible for loan adjustments from their lenders if they meet specific criteria - such as 1) the home must be the primary residence, and 2) the mortgage balance can be no more than $729,750. Plus, 3) the reduced monthly mortgage payments cannot be more than 31% of income, and 4) the modified loan has to be greater than the value of what the property could be sold for through foreclosure.

If a borrower cannot make the mortgage payments under the adjusted terms, the lender can consider a short sale - very common now in the Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach areas, and then a deed in lieu of foreclosure, where the borrower voluntarily gives the lender the property. In both of these cases, the bank may forgive the debt, and there may be tax ramifications.

The new government plan, just announced - Cash for Keys - affects short sales and deeds in lieu proceedings. The borrower can receive up to $1,500 to assist with relocation, and Treasury will pay the lender/servicers $1,000 to complete the sale or deed in lieu of foreclosure.

Your situation will be complicated if you have a 1st and 2nd mortgage, in which case both lenders have to work together. Read the special report by CNNMoney in NewsGenius.

If you are behind on your mortgage payments and need help, contact me. I hold the designation CDPE, or Certified Distressed Property Expert, and have helped many homeowners sell their properties before foreclosure. You have options!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Ormond Beach Memorial Art Museum and Gardens

Not many visitors know about one of the treasures of Ormond Beach, our art museum and the spectacular gardens surrounding the museum on three sides.

The museum's home page explains its background and purpose, "The Museum was founded by Ormond and Ormond Beach residents as a living monument to creative freedom and equality of all persons, and to commemorate the service of World War II veterans who fought valiantly for that ideal. It was the first memorial of its kind in this area, and possibly the State of Florida."

Today the Museum shows the work of prominent Florida and international artists in a series of changing exhibits. The original 1,500 square-foot building now houses the Museum's business offices as well as a classroom and galleries. A 2,500 square- foot expansion in 1999, and a renovation in late spring of 2001, have brought the galleries, reception areas, gift shop and classroom up to contemporary museum and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.

The Gardens are every bit as memorable and artistic as works in the museum itself. Ormond Beach enjoys a great climate, with ample sunshine and warmth, in which plants thrive. Built on what was once a sand dune, the Gardens were gently developed into a park. There are five ponds, three from natural depressions, which are home to turtles, frogs, and fish. Aquatic plants such as water lilies and water lettuces offer food, shade and natural cleansing within the ponds.

Parts of the gardens are manicured landscape and other parts are left in a naturally wild state. Although the gardens are located in the heart of the city, walking the paths gives you the feeling of being in a tropical rain forest.

Read about the plants and history on the Ormond Museum Gardens page.

If you are a resident and have never visited, be sure and take the time to enjoy the culture of Ormond Beach, and take visitors too. The Museum is located at 78 East Granada Boulevard.

The resources of Ormond Beach are always a wonder to me, and give our city an enviable lifestyle. Come join us!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

New Museum to Open in Ormond Beach area

A new museum will be opening in DeLand, and needs your support.

The Hard Hat Bash Saturday, May 16, is the first fundraiser for the Florida Museum of Women Artists, which is currently under construction at 100 N. Woodland Blvd., on the second floor of the Fish Building.

The evening will begin with a reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Volusia County Historic Courthouse, just down the block from the museum, and may overflow into the newly opened Chess Park next door to the Historic Courthouse. Tours will be led from the courthouse to the museum, where visitors must wear hard hats, to check out the construction in progress. Dinner will follow at Mainstreet Grill, 100 E. New York Ave.

A Volusia County ECHO grant helped make possible conversion of the second floor of the city-owned Fish Building to house the museum. When complete, the museum will have exhibits, a gift shop, possibly a cafe, and a classroom for art education.

According to BeaconOnlineNews, "The City of DeLand is leasing the second floor of the Fish Building to the group at a reduced rate for the first couple of years of occupancy, and sharing the cost of renovations with the Museum of Women Artists. City officials hope the museum will bring additional tourists and visitors to Downtown DeLand.

To buy tickets for the Bash, call Mary McBride at (386) 212-5777, or send e-mail to hardhatbash@gmail.com. If you are interested in supporting the women artists, visit Florida Women in the Arts.

Ormond Beach and DeLand offer much in the way of cultural activities. Our town is vibrant and energetic. Come joint our lifestyle and call for my free Relocation Information for Ormond Beach.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Lakefront home for sale in Breakaway Trails, Ormond Beach FL

A few days ago I wrote about Breakaway Trails, and hopefully convinced you what a great place to live it could be. Here's a home for sale in this gated community on the lake, beautifully maintained, on a large lot, and the sellers want an offer!

It's an exceptional 4 bedroom, 2 bath lakefront home which offers extensive 18" diagonally cut tile floors in the main living areas, carpet in bedrooms, and a screened lanai. Upgrades include 42" upper cabinets, 10 foot ceilings, double vanities, garden tub and separate shower in the master bath, double tray ceilings, and beautiful lake views! The gated neighborhood of Breakaway Trails includes tennis courts, ballfield, community clubhouse, pool and a Florida lifestyle you've only dreamed about.

The home is ready for your immediate preview and is in move-in condition. Contact me for a showing.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor

sherry@sherryarmstrong.com

386-67903191

Ormond Beach Chess Park Opens

Well, actually it's in DeLand, but has proven popular to players and observers alike in the week+ since it's been open. News-Journal Online gives a good description of the park: "After more than two years of planning and construction, Volusia County opened the park, near the historic county courthouse building between West Indiana and New York avenues, last week.

"It features 10 game tables topped with black-and-white tile checkerboard squares and more than a dozen park benches. There also are brick pavers, young trees strategically placed to provide shade for park visitors, a black wall where water cascades into a small pool, public restrooms and a raised stage area. Both New York and West Indiana avenues are visible from the park, which has gates at the entrances from both avenues. The gates are locked each night."

The county provided funding with help from a $500,000 grant from Volusia County ECHO and $200,000 from the city of DeLand, which contributed money for the addition of public restrooms. Altogether, the county spent nearly $1.5 million before the project was completed, in about a year.

Ormond Beach has many public places to relax and enjoy our ambience and laid-back lifestyle. Contact me for a Free Relocation Package.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com

Ormond Beach Housing Affordability Nears Record

The National Assn. of Realtors released April figures, and reported that pending home sales rose, as 1st time home buyers took advantage of the great affordability conditions in effect now. The Pending Home Sales Index in the South rose 8.5 percent to 93.2 in March and is 7.7 percent above a year ago.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said it should take a few months for the market to gain momentum. "This increase could be the leading edge of first-time buyers responding to very favorable affordability conditions and an $8,000 tax credit, which increases buying power even more in areas where special programs allow buyers to use it as a downpayment," he said.

NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth, said the increase in buying power is quite remarkable. "Compared to a year ago, the typical family can pay much less in mortgage costs for the same home, or buy a better home without necessarily increasing their monthly payment," he said. "For buyers who've been on the sidelines and have good jobs, the market has never looked more favorable. Home ownership has always offered immediate benefits and long-term value, but the advantages in today's market are unique."

I've certainly seen this in our Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach real estate markets. Inventory decreased in April, and the number of homes under contract definitely rose. Visit the market pages of my web sites to get the details:
Ormond Beach numbers
Daytona Beach numbers

Contact me with questions about getting your $8,000 tax refund from the government, and other loan programs to help buyers.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/

Breakaway Trails, Ormond Beach

Breakaway Trails, a gated community in Ormond Beach, Florida offers a unique lifestyle. This exclusive community is well-known for its small neighborhoods surrounded by environmentally protected nature preserves. With sparkling lakes, magnolia trees, a quaint wooden bridge, a clubhouse with pool, and tennis, Breakaway Trails offers a blend of lifestyles complete with relaxation and activity.

There are 976 residences ranging in price from approximately $300,000 to over $1,450,000. New construction is available in some neighborhoods.

Breakaway Trails community amenities include:

* Community pool, basketball courts, pavillion, clubhouse, roller hockey rink
* Estate-sized lots for privacy
* New homes or resales
* Basketball courts, pavillion, clubhouse, roller hockey rink
* Safe and secure - this is a gated community
* Enjoy a family environment - all of the neighborhoods are geared for family living
* Nature at your doorstep - beautiful natural areas surround the neighborhoods
* Beaches - the area is known for its famous drive-on beach, one of the few available in the world

Helpful Breakaway Trails links:
* Community Association
* Calendar of Events
* Newsletter
* Golf information
* Ormond Beach news
* Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce

Advantages of living in Breakaway Trails include:

* Tomoka State Park- this park is perfect for camping, canoeing and picnicking
*Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens offers exhibitions of Florida, regional, national and international artists. Additionally, the OMAM seeks to advance the appreciation and awareness of the arts through classes, lectures and demonstrations
*Daytona Beach, where one of the nation's great vacation spots provides entertainment, shopping, dining, a world famous beach and the Daytona International Speedway
* Close to arts and entertainment, such as the London Symphony
* Just minutes from I-95

Public Schools serving Ormond Beach and Breakaway Trails:

Pine Trail Elementary
300 Airport Rd
Ormond Beach Fl 32174
386-676-5300

Pathways Elementary
2100 Airport Road
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
386.676.5360

Hinson Middle School
1860 N. Clyde Morris Blvd.
Ormond Beach, FL 32117
386.258.4682

Mainland High School
125 S Clyde Morris Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
386.258.4665

Use the search below to find current homes for sale in Breakaway Trails. When you are ready to preview a property, or just want general real estate sales information, let me know - I'm the Relocation Specialist for Breakaway Trails in Ormond Beach and can discuss our great real estate opportunities in this prestigious community.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Mortgage Fraud Targeted by US Senate

Tuesday, the Senate voted 92-4 to increase the number of FBI agents and prosecutors to target more than 5,000 cases of mortgage fraud reported monthly. The vote was taken while the House held discussions on an anti-predatory lending bill, which deals with the types of subprime mortgages that led to the current real estate economic downturn.

“As foreclosures menace more and more hardworking homeowners, they become more desperate for help,” said Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev. “Unfortunately, schemers, swindlers and scam artists are all too happy to pounce.”

The Senate bill, sponsored by Sens. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt., and Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, is estimated to cost more than $265 million a year for the next two years. Supporters, including President Barack Obama, say the legislation would more than pay for itself because of the fines and penalties that would result from more aggressive government investigations.

(source: FL Assn of Realtors)

If you feel you have been a victim of mortgage fraud in connection with Ormond Beach real estate, contact your local FBI office or congressperson/representative.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
www.sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Take Advantage of the Energy Efficiency Tax Credits

The federal government has extended and expanded home energy efficiency tax credits through 2010 as part of the broader economic recovery package. The energy efficiency tax credits were created earlier this year by President Obama’s economic stimulus package, which focused on encouraging consumer spending, as well as promoting more energy efficiency in housing. The tax credits allow homeowners to claim 30% of the cost of qualified energy efficiency products, up to $1,500, including insulation, windows and doors, roofs, HVAC equipment, and water heaters.

Even in our Ormond Beach marketplace, with our (usually) warm weather and abundant sunshine, there are many ways to take advantage of the tax credits. To earn an energy efficiency tax credit, homeowners must save their receipt for a qualified purchase, print a form provided by the product’s manufacturer and then claim the deduction on their federal income tax return.

Kateri Callahan, president of the Alliance to Save Energy, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that promotes energy efficiency, said, “The new tax credits can help homeowners defray the cost of several types of energy efficiency upgrades, making them more affordable at this time of economic strain for many. By tightening up their homes with added insulation and caulking and sealing of doors and windows, homeowners will enjoy lower heating and cooling costs, too."

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that homeowners can save up to 30% on their heating and cooling bills by adding insulation to adequate levels and air sealing their homes. In addition, an estimated 65% of U.S. homes, about 45 million, are under insulated, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.

To read results of a recent survey conducted by Johns Manville on US views on the tax credits, read the RisMedia article (used as a resource for this blog).

If you are undecided whether or not to pursue energy efficiency measures in your home, consider the resale value of your Ormond Beach real estate. As the country becomes greener, and energy costs continue to rise, your next buyer - in 5 months or 5 years - will want all the energy efficiency in place, that you can build into your home.

Here are a couple of links for you to find out more:

energystar.gov/taxcredits

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits

Use your tax credits now to increase the value of your Ormond Beach property.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com

Florida Housing Recovery also Comes to Ormond Beach

According to a new report by Housing Predictor, Florida is pulling out of the housing downturn first. Previously, California has been the first state to experience a turn around.

But higher sales numbers for both single family and condos in Florida, lasting now for 7 months, indicate real estate in Florida is coming back strong. Banks are now making mortgages again, and NewsGenius reports that almost 20% of all sales are seller financed in some way.

Florida experienced the downturn in real estate before any other state, and has been in the top 3 of depressed markets nationwide. It's great that Ormond Beach real estate, along with the rest of Florida, is now trending up again.

Since this news will probably make you curious about prices, here's a search tool to give you information on our Ormond Beach real estate market (single family - contact me for a widget for the condos available).



Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
http://www.daytonabeachflhome.com/
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Ormond Beach Theater Auditions Soon

The Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center will be holding open auditions for an ethnically diverse cast of children ages 12 to 18 for a production of the Broadway musical "The Me Nobody Knows."

Auditions will be held at the Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m. Children interested in auditioning will be asked to read a selected piece and be prepared to sing a piece of their choosing.

The Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center is a 23,000 square foot theatre that seats 600 patrons in stadium-styled setting. The venue hosts national, regional and local theatrical troupes, schools, dance programs, concerts and seminars. The theatre is fully accessible to patrons with disabilities and offers hearing assisted devices free of charge. The facility is equipped with a professional sound, stage, lighting and backstage equipment to serve general performance needs.

Here's the Center's Mission Statement: "The Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center provides area residents and visitors with exceptional entertainment in the tradition of true community theatre. The Center provides an education complex offering classes for all ages. The auditorium is designed to offer the maximum enjoyment for viewing and listening pleasure. Our goal is to educate and cultivate the theatrical hearts, minds, and souls of all. "

For more information please contact Stefan Sibley, Performing Arts Center, at 386-676-3379.

It's really great to live in a place that offers so much in entertainment, warm weather, beaches to enjoy, and real estate at prices that are the lowest in years. Ormond Beach real estate is a super buy right now. Contact me to discuss some opportunities.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor

http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

(source: Orlando Sentinel)

Considerations if you Want to Sell in Today's Ormond Beach Market

Sometimes in the flurry of economic news and job losses and foreclosure statistics, we forget that there are families who just want to move - who have a job offer in another location, or want to move closer to children or parents, or want a different scene. How do they sell their properties in this "short sale buyer's market?"

Here are a few tips for the seller who isn't "underwater" and has been current on his/her mortgage payments, but who has to compete with the "let's make a deal" mentality rampant in our market now.

1. It used to be location location - now it's Price Price and Price. This is probably your hardest decision as a seller because - in many cases - it means losing a lot of your equity. If you want to sell in today's market, you have an abundance of competition = supply & demand = price it to compete with your competition, even if they are lower (or much lower) than you think your house is worth. Pay for an appraisal, but better yet - call in a Realtor (I'm an expert at the Ormond Beach real estate market) who will give you a Comparative Market Analysis for free with up-to-date sales information in your neighborhood.

2. Adjust your thinking. Regardless of when you purchased, you want to sell now. Forget last year's prices, forget how much you wanted to "gain" from your home. You've made the decision to sell, so you will have to also make the decision to accept today's prices. You probably will have to make buyer concessions, or repairs, or help with a buyer's closing costs. If you can't accept the idea of these possibilities, maybe you should wait to sell.

3. Be realistic. Go through your home (you may have to ask an impartial observer to do this, like a Realtor) and be honest about repairs that are needed, outdated improvements such as countertops or carpet that a buyer will want replaced or for which they will reduce the price. Remember - there are plenty of competing sellers who will reduce their prices.

4. Be the very best you can be. Insure your Ormond Beach property will make the best first impression possible as buyers drive up. If you are in a condo, you can't control the building or hallways, but you can control what they see when they open the door. Clean the clutter, and clean some more. As an Ormond Beach real estate specialist, I can help advise you on exactly what you need to spruce up your real estate to realize the highest price possible.

5. Watch the market. If you see another property go on sale near yours, call your Realtor and make sure she/he visits it and reports back - if they have an open house, go yourself. Compare and be brutally honest with yourself. You may need to reduce your price.

6. Be optimistic. The new administration has set in motion many programs to entice buyers and to help them obtain mortgage financing. People are still buying; the Great American Dream is still to own a home. Do everything you can to make it yours that they buy.

If I sound like I'm experienced in selling real estate in the Ormond Beach market, I am. I've helped buyers and sellers from Breakaway Trails to Seabridge, from beachside to the Woodlands. Give me a call or send an email - no obligation, just great service.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/

Ormond Beach Considers Redevelopment

Ormond Beach FL city commissioners are considering redevelopment of a piece of land off West Granada Blvd. and North Yonge Street. They authorized the city's planning department to request proposals on redeveloping the property, about 7 acres. Options, according to Ric Goss, planning director, could be mixed-use development of commercial and residential space, or commercial and office along Granada and residentional on Yonge.

A mobile home park of about 44 units sits along the east side of Yonge and north of Granada. Goss indicated the park's owner was interested in the request for proposals, and tenants might be concerned about relocation. Most of the homes are 30-35 years old. Mayor Fred Costello said the residents would certainly be informed when proposals are received.

Goss said the request for proposal would be advertised in a redevelopment magazine, sent to developers specializing in downtown redevelopment, and to a downtown redevelopment association, and also placed on the city's Web site.

Ormond Beach offers residents a quality lifestyle and great weather. This is a Buyer's Market here - the best time to buy in years. If you are interested in the real estate market in Ormond Beach, now's the time to invest. Contact me for options.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Federal Mortgage Rescue Plan Now Underway

Although the new government program for distressed homeowners was announced on Feb. 18, it took until this week to become available. Six of the nation’s largest banks signed up to participate: JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Citigroup, GMAC Mortgage, Saxon Mortgage Services, and Select Portfolio Servicing.

$50 billion has been allocated for the program, and the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development will provide additional funds. The plan calls for lenders to reduce interest rates so a family’s monthly mortgage obligation is no more than 38% of its pre-tax income. Lenders may also reduce loan balances. After the loans are modified, the government will provide enough money to reduce payments to 31% of income.

There are incentives in the program for lenders to be flexible, and for homeowners to profit. According to Realtor.org, "Participating servicers get $1,000 a year for each modification and another $1,000 a year for three years if the borrower remains current. Servicers get an extra $500 if they do the modifications before the borrower falls behind in his payments—and the borrower gets $1,500. Also, homeowners get $1,000 a year for five years if they remain current on their payments. The money must be used to reduce their principal balances."

If you are in a distressed situation, or still current on your payments but need loan modifications, be sure and contact your lender before you get behind or go to foreclosure. I just finished the course to obtain the Certified Distress Property Expert designation and have done many short sales with Ormond Beach properties over the past few years. Call or email me - I can help!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com
www.ormondbeachflhome.com

Ormond Beach Dune Volunteers Needed

This week, volunteers are needed to help with a dune planting project. The dune plants should help eroded beach areas along Ocean Shore Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

Plantings will begin 9 a.m. Thursday and Friday. Volunteers should bring sunscreen, a bag lunch, garden gloves and a shovel, if available. County officials will bring plants, other tools and water.

People interested in participating should contact Volusia County Environmental Management employees Amber Bridges, who can be reached at 386-238-4716 or abridges@co.volusia.fl.us or Jennifer Winters, who can be reachedat 386-238-4668 or jwinters@co.volusia.fl.us .

There are plenty of opportunities here in Volusia County for volunteers - get involved!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

(thanks to Orlando Sentinel)

Houseboating through History in Volulsia County

This year's Florida Quest adventure, sponsored by The Daytona Beach News-Journal's Newspaper in Education program and WDSC television, Channel 15, is "Houseboating through History."

Participating Volusia and Flagler teachers of third through sixth grades will kick off the program with an introductory lesson the week of April 20. The program revolves around the fictional story of four local youngsters taking a boat trip north along the Intracoastal Waterway to Jacksonville and back to DeLand via the St. Johns River. Along the way, they use clues from the story they read in class, the newspaper, Channel 15 and the Internet to solve puzzles related to local history.

The program includes information on Spanish and French settlements, forts, battles and Native American customs and culture. It's matched to state academic standards in language arts and social studies and designed to improve students' critical-thinking skills.

Clues will be published in the Accent section of The News-Journal for four consecutive Mondays beginning April 27.

If you have a child in 3rd through 6th grade, encourage them to take part. Sounds like a fun way to teach and learn history!

Ormond Beach Florida - it's a great life!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com

(source: News-Journal Online)

At Your Service in Volusia County

As many people worldwide celebrate Holy Week, regardless of your religion it makes you think of others less fortunate than you might be, and how you can help.

The News-Journal weekly prints At Your Service, a column describing hot lines and volunteer opportunities in Volusia County.

While there are many, here are three which are timely:

American Red Cross-Florida's Coast to Coast Chapter -- Disaster Action Team volunteers needed to respond to single family or apartment fires. Also, disaster services volunteers are also needed for disaster planning, preparedness, community disaster education and mitigation.

Children's Home Society -- Volunteers are needed to serve on the board of directors. Attend the Board Recruitment Breakfast on April 21, to learn about the agency, its services, an the expectations of a board member of a nonprofit.

Easter Seals Joey's Gift -- Respite care volunteers needed once per month to serve as playtime companions to children with special needs while their caregivers have some personal time off (April 18 in Daytona Beach, April 25 in DeLand).

And two related to my industry:

Flagler Habitat for Humanity -- Volunteer committee members are needed to serve on the Development, Family Selection, & Family Support committees. Clerical volunteers are also needed.

Southwest Volusia Habitat for Humanity -- Skilled construction volunteers are needed for building homes on Saturdays in Southwest Volusia County.· Star Family Center -- Front desk/receptionist, clothes and donation sorting, mailings and data input volunteers. Training provided.

I'll write a later blog on Habitat for Humanity, but it is one of the most wonderful volunteer opportunities we Realtors have to serve the community.

Get involved - visit At Your Service on News-Journal Online.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
http://www.ormondbeachflhome.com/
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com

Ormond Beach Teacher Hopes for Autism School

Mimi Lundell, a language arts teacher at Ormond Beach Middle School and executive director of Chase Academy, has been trying for 2 years to develop a local private school for children like her son, a 9-year child with autism named Chase. Lundell hopes to team up with existing private schools and tap into state vouchers for children with disabilities.

Early attempts to find a building to house The Chase Academy fell through after organizers couldn't locate enough parents able to afford the $21,500 tuition, even with a state McKay Scholarship -- or voucher -- covering part of the cost. Chase now attends fourth grade at First Presbyterian Day School in DeLand with a McKay Scholarship for children with disabilities paying part of the cost.

Chase was one of 293 Volusia children in 17 private schools receiving McKay Scholarships as of February. Lundell said most of those schools don't have specially trained teachers on staff to work with them. That's where she figures a partnership between Chase Academy and the private schools could pay off for autistic students.

For now, Lundell is partnering with an Ormond Beach child care center to offer a "developmental play camp" this summer that would be open to autistic children aged 3 to 10. Each weekly session between June 8 and July 31 would cost $125, with eight to 12 children enrolled. The program will meet at the Ormond Beach Union Learning Center, 56 N. Beach St. More information is available by calling 386-677-0494.

Autism is a developmental disorder marked by problems with social interaction, communication and sometimes behavior. An estimated one in 150 children have been diagnosed with autism. Lundell is hoping to persuade administrators at some of the private schools to contract with Chase Academy to work with their autistic students and their teachers, with the McKay Scholarships covering the added cost.

Read comments to this article at NewsJournalOnline.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191
Find Ormond Beach Homes for Sale

Ormond Beach 2nd Home Market

The National Assn. of Realtors released figures showing the combination of vacation and investment-home sales slipped to 30 percent of all existing and new-home transactions in 2008. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the findings are understandable given the economic backdrop. "We expected vacation-home sales to fall given the impact of a declining economy on discretionary purchases," he said. "A steady share of investment-home sales results from buyers taking advantage of deeply discounted prices in many areas, with a smaller portion of new homes in the sales mix."

With large numbers of buyers coming into the prime years for purchasing a 2nd home, the long-term outlook for this industry looks good. According to NAR, currently, 39.2 million people in the United States are ages 50 to 59 - a group that dominated sales in the first part of this decade. An additional 44.8 million people are between 40 and 49, and another 40.7 million are 30 to 39.

Yun is positive about the sector: "While economic factors can affect sales from one year to the next, the fundamental demand from these large population groups will remain," Yun said. "Given that most people become interested in buying a second home in their 40s, the bulge of population approaching middle age should drive the second-home market over the next decade."

Ormond Beach is an attractive market for 2nd home and vacation home buyers, with its great weather, large choices of activities, and many view and oceanfront condos available. NAR studied the vacation home buyer, and found that the typical purchaser in 2008 was 46 years old, had a median household income of $97,200, and purchased a property that was a median of 316 miles from their primary residence; 35 percent were within 100 miles and 36 percent were 500 miles or more.

When asked about their reasons for purchasing a vacation home, 89 percent of buyers wanted to use the home for vacation or as a family retreat; 27 percent to diversify investments; 27 percent to rent to others; 26 percent to use as a primary residence in the future; and 17 percent for use by a family member, friend or relative.

To relate these numbers to the Ormond Beach real estate market, 26 percent of vacation homes were purchased in small towns, 23 percent in a rural area, 23 percent in resorts, 20 percent in a suburb, and 8 percent in an urban area or central city. Seventy percent of vacation homes purchased in 2008 were detached single-family homes, 18 percent condos, 5 percent townhouses or rowhouses, and 7 percent some other type. So, although Ormond Beach inventory consists of plenty of condos, we do have great buys in detached single family homes as well.

Ormond Beach definitely has a place in the investment property market. NAR found the size of the second-home market to be significant. NAR's analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data shows there are 8.1 million vacation homes and 40.5 million investment units in the United States, compared with 75.5 million owner-occupied homes. For more statistics, visit NAR's Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey conducted in March, 2009, at their web site.

My Ormond Beach web site reviews some of the more popular condos, with photos, and many of the neighborhoods in Ormond Beach - like Breakaway Trails, The Hammocks, and Halifax Plantation. If you are considering purchase of a 2nd home or investment property, visit my Ormond Beach real estate site and contact me for specific information about any community or market dynamics.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
(resource: RealEstateChannel)

Ormond Beach FL Historic Car Garage Proposed

Cars, racing, and speed records are an integral part of Ormond Beach Florida history. One local group wants to replicate the historic Ormond Beach garage which burned down in 1976. Originally built in 1904, about a quarter mile west of the Birthplace of Speed Park, it was on the grounds of Henry Flagler's Hotel Ormond, which originally stretched from the Intracoastal to the ocean.

The Motor Racing Heritage Association in Daytona Beach is proposing to build a small replica of the Ormond Garage large enough for a pair of sculptures of the Olds Pirate and the Winton Bullet racecars, at a cost of about $3,000.

The garage would be built at the Birthplace of Speed Park at Granada Boulevard and the beach, which was home to the cars, until corrosion forced them to go on an extended pit stop.

The roughly 16-foot-wide, 20-foot-long and 8-foot-tall garage would be built at no cost to the city, said Dan Smith, a member of the board of directors for the racing heritage group. "It would be a historical addition to the park, as well as protect the cars," Smith said. "Even though the original garage has been gone for a long time, it's still a big part of Ormond Beach's history."

To read more about the proposed project, visit News-JournalOnline. If you are interested in helping with the construction of the garage, call Smith at 386-441-7793.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com

Volusia County Events

Just a quick look at the OrlandoSentinel will convince even the most stay-at-home types that there are many wonderful opportunities to learn, be active, meet people, and just be involved, here in the Ormond Beach area and Volusia County.

Here are a few of the current events in Volusia County (courtesy of the Orlando Sentinel):

1) Concert performance: Composer-conductor-instrumentalist-author David Amram will give a free public performance/presentation, "At Home Around the World," from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. March 27 at Stetson University's Mary B. McMahan Hall, located at North Woodland Boulevard and East Michigan Avenue, in DeLand. Details: 386-822-8920.

2) DeBary Garden Club: Bonnie Cary, outreach education coordinator for Volusia County Land Acquisition and Management, will speak at 7 p.m. April 2 at the DeBary Civic Center, 38 South Shell Road. Details: Christy Jefferson at 386-574-9376.

3) Woman's Club: The Village Improvement Association, Orange City Woman's Club, will have a public affairs meeting at 1 p.m. April 2 at the First Congregational United Church of Christ of Orange City, 201 W. University Ave. The guest speaker will be Karen Tendards, mortgage specialist from Bank of America. Details: 386-822-7829.

4) Lighthouse maintenance: The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, 4931 S. Peninsula Drive, will offer a "Canaveral Lens Maintenance Demonstration" from 1 to 2 p.m. April 3. Join the lighthouse keepers as they talk about the history of the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse and demonstrate their maintenance duties on the 1st Order Fresnel Lens. Included with regular admission of $5 for adults, $1.50 for children 11 or younger. Details: 386-761-1821.

5) Easter egg hunt: Volusia County's annual "Egg-stravaganza" will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 4 at Gemini Springs Park, 37 Dirksen Drive, DeBary. The free event will include games, food and entertainment for children of all ages. Children can meet the Easter Bunny and take part in an egg hunt at 10 a.m. A special-needs egg hunt will begin at 10:30 a.m. Details: Garrett Veirs at 386-736-5953, Ext. 6702, or e-mail gveirs@co.volusia.fl.us. After the egg hunt, parents can bring their children to DeBary Hall Historic Site for tea with the Easter Bunny. Tea time will include games, crafts and finger sandwiches. Each child will receive a free picture with the Easter Bunny. Tickets are $15 per person. Advance registration is required. Call: 386-668-3840.

And this short list doesn't include plant sales, concerts, drivers ed, ballroom dancing, Lenten fish fry, etc. - you get the idea!

Have fun -

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Spring Arrives in Ormond Beach FL Gardens

The News-Journal Online listed some fun and educational gardening events coming up soon for Ormond Beach residents. We missed the "Rain Barrels and Rain Gardens" but these are still ahead:

WILDFLOWER FESTIVAL, MARCH 28: hosted by River of Lakes Heritage Corridor; includes vendors, exhibits and field trips, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., historic Downtown DeLand, Woodland Blvd., DeLand. FREE. 386-822-5778.

HERB FAIRE, MARCH 28: festival, and plant sale; presented by Seaside Herb Society, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Riverbridge Meeting House, 1 N. Beach St., Ormond Beach. FREE. Lunch available for purchase. 386-405-5269.

There are events for every interest here in Ormond Beach - it's a great place to live!

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Buicks to Star at Birthplace of Speed Event in Ormond Beach FL

This week, the city of Ormond Beach will hold the 7th installment of their centennial Birthplace of Speed Celebration. In 2003, the city began honoring top class racers, their cars and teams from the short period from 1903 to 1910, when Ormond Beach was the place to set land speed records.

In 1909, "Wild" Bob Burman and Team Buick tested their stripped-down racer against an airplane, and won. That same car, called the Buick Bug 60s Special, is now owned by Jay Leno. Mr. Burman and Team Buick will be honored at this year's celebration.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 25. The day starts with a classic car parade on the beach from the Cardinal Drive ramp to the Harvard Avenue ramp. The parade will be followed by a larger classic car show, entertainment and awards at Fortunato Park on John Anderson Drive and a public reception at The Casements. For car aficionados, the show will highlight vintage pre-1932 cars, with a mix of cars from the 1940s to 1960s. Live bands will play jazz and swing, and food will be free.

The car show attracts owners from all over Florida. For more information call the city at (386) 676-3241. (source: MyHometownNews)

We have a lot of fun here in Ormond Beach - contact me for details!

Sherry Armstrong, REALTOR
386-679-3191
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/

Scammers Target Troubled Borrowers

From Realtor.Org comes a warning about scammers who are threatening homeowners, who try to take advantage of borrowers in trouble. The scammers charge fees for "quick and successful" negotiations" with banks. But in most cases, do nothing except take the homeowner's money.

The Federal Reserve issued this advice for borrowers who want to modify their mortgages:

1) Work only with HUD-approved nonprofit counselors. (See www.hud.gov)
2) Don't agree to pay a fee before you are provided with the promised service.
3) Beware of people offering "guaranteed" results.
4) Don't sign blank forms or documents you haven't read.

Contact me with any questions - I've worked with many homeowners in preforeclosure situations.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
www.sherryarmstrong.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Education in Volusia County, FL

Enough is enough was the message brought to the state capitol in Tallahassee Wednesday by parents, educators, and students, echoing President Obama's constant reminders that improved schools have to be one of the cornerstones of the country's economic recovery. With Florida facing a multibillion-dollar budget shortfall, the PTA and other education groups led a rally aimed at convincing lawmakers to shield schools from potentially deep cuts during the coming year.

Their message, chanted again and again, was clear: "No more cuts."

"The needs of our children need to be met now," Florida PTA President Karin Brown told a crowd that packed the steps of the Capitol. "Not tomorrow, not next year -- but now."

Bus loads of supporters -- including a chartered bus that left Volusia County about 6 a.m. to make it to Tallahassee -- cheered, listened to speeches and held signs that read, "Save our schools," "Make our schools a priority" and "Invest in children."

Read more at the NewsJournal Online and contact your state represenatives and senators to voice your opinions on funding for education. For links to the communities in Ormond Beach and the school sites, visit my Ormond Beach web site.

Sherry Armstrong, Realtor
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
www.sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Tomoka State Park, Ormond Beach FL

Native Americans once dwelled here, living off fish-filled lagoons. Today, these waters are popular for canoeing, boating, and fishing. The park protects a variety of wildlife habitats and endangered species, such as the West Indian manatee.

Tomoka is a bird-watcher's paradise, with over 160 species sighted, especially during the spring and fall migrations. Visitors can stroll a one-half mile nature trail through a hardwood hammock that was once an indigo field for an 18th century British landowner. A boat ramp gives boaters and canoeists access to the river. The Park Store offers snacks, camping supplies, and canoe rentals.

There is a burn ban currently in effect until further notice in Volusia County. The only outdoor fires allowed in the park will be charcoal or gas grill.

For overnight stays, the park has full-facility campsites and youth camping. Located three miles north of Ormond Beach on North Beach Street. Admission Fees are $4 per vehicle for up to 8 passengers, $1 for pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers and permit holders. Camping fee is $20. Contact 386-673-0022 for more information and visit Tomoka State Park. (Photo courtesy of State Park web site.)

Sherry Armstrong
www.sherryarmstrong.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
386-679-3191

Ormond Beach FL Biologist Honored

Charlie du Toit, biologist for Tomoka State Park in Ormond Beach, won the Florida Dept. of Environmental Protection's award for resource manager of the year.

DuToit said he's proudest of his work restoring the miles of ditches that had been dug through what is now park land. Originally, they were dug for mosquito control, but restoring the ditches has helped to re-create the tidal environment that was once there.

"Years ago, I wasn't really hopeful that the marshes would be able to be restored. It seemed like such an overwhelming task," he said.

Read the full article at the Orlando Sentinel.

Sherry Armstrong
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com
http://www.sherryarmstrong.com/
386-679-3191

Ormond Beach FL Real Estate Market Statistics

I have just reviewed the monthly statistics for our area from the Daytona Beach Area Association of Realtors Multiple Listing Service and I thought you'd like to review the current activity from March 1, 2008 to March 31, 2008.

There are currently 6418 Active residential listings. There are 3691 listed houses as of today and 139 houses have sold between March 1, 2008 and March 31, 2008. There are 1828 listed condos as of today with 26 condos having sold between March 1, 2008 and March 31, 2008.

For a breakdown by price ranges, please contact me directly. There are still great buys available in all price ranges in this coastal county of Volusia, but you need a local Ormond Beach market expert to help you. I have over 21 years of home buying and selling experience.

For true local knowledgeable service in the Ormond Beach real estate market, contact

Sherry Armstrong
386-679-3191
www.sherryarmstrong.com
sherry@sherryarmstrong.com