In my family’s quest to be more eco-friendly, we’ve made a few sacrifices (good-bye salon hair care products, hello Burt’s Bees). We’ve had to make some not-so-popular choices with the kids as well. This time, we had to decide if they would get to use the blow-up pool this year. Okay, it’s made of plastic, but since it was given to us, that’s re-using it rather than having it go to a landfill-Point #1 for the pool. But what about all the water use? So, we decided that as long as the water was reclaimed and used throughout the yard, we’d give it a go. The kids played in it for a couple days and had a lot of fun-Point #2 for the pool. Then it was time to empty it and clean it out before the lawn became completely scorched. Kids at school and empty watering cans in hand, away I go to complete this simple task…
On trip numbers 1-5 back and forth from pool to plant, I’m thinking, “This is great- I’m doing my part to conserve water.” Trip numbers 6-8 hit the plants in the far back corner of the yard- plants that don’t always get enough water- good for me. Trip #9 I start getting a little thirsty and wonder how much longer this is going to take. Trips 10-14 I’m hoping these plants really appreciate all this effort, as the sweat pours down my armpits and soaks my shirt. If anyone sees me, I can tell them I spilled some water (On your armpits? Yeah, right…). By the time I get back to the pool to fill up for Trip # 15, and the pool is about half empty, I’m wondering where I’m going to put the rest of this water??? I’m sure as heck not walking all the way to the front yard! I’ve already abandoned waiting for the water to come out the spout of the watering can in favor of the “dump it out the top as quickly as possible” method. On about Trip # 20 (I’ve lost count by now) I start trying to remember which plants have been watered already and which have been drowned. Finally, the pool reaches a level where the watering cans can no longer be filled (don’t talk to me about pulling up one side so the other will fill!). So I gracefully dump the remaining water on the grass (you’re welcome, grass). Then, I realize the pool is covered in mud & grass (#!%*). Out comes the hose- but that’s wasting more water, isn’t it? So I haul the pool to another part of the lawn which is looking pretty dry (smart thinking!) and hose down the pool. Drape the pool over the swing set, and we’re all done.
So, was it worth the effort? Well, the kids had fun, the plants are (mostly) happy-especially the tomatoes and cucumbers- I lost a couple pounds (water weight- go figure!), and all the water got reused. So I’d have to say it was a worthwhile endeavor. I’m feeling pretty “Green” right now. Boy, could I use a shower…
Everyday, I get asked, “How’s Real Estate?”. Well, I gotta say that I still love my work. Sure, it’s still a difficult market for some Sellers, but my Buyers are having a field day! And, believe it or not, some of my Buyers are still facing some pretty steep competition to purchase homes in the under $125,000 range. Sellers, if you have a 3/2 or larger in a decent neighborhood for under $125,000 give me a call!
So, where are the “deals” right now? Mostly in the Luxury and higher price range homes. Want a beachfront condo? Have I got a bargain or 200 for you! How about a Penthouse Perdido Key Waterfront condo that listed in June of 2006 for $799,900 now on the market for $339,000? (Can you say “Short-sale?”)
One might consider this Portofino condo that sold for $990k in May 2005 a good deal now at $800k (unless you are the lender who currently holds the mortgage-sorry guys, guess you shouldn’t have made that loan!).
Prefer a luxury waterfront home on Pensacola Beach? How about 3900+ sq ft originally listed for $3.25 million, now offered at a “discount” rate of only $1.825 million!
Is every luxury home a bargain right now? Of course not. But overall the prices are getting back into a more reasonable range after a few years of inflation due to investors and speculators. The main reason you will be able to find a more acceptably priced luxury home right now is because of supply. The more luxury homes on the market, the lower the prices and the more bargaining power the Buyers have. If you are leery of buying a short-sale, don’t worry- those are a very small percentage of the luxury homes and condos currently on the market. But, if you are looking to buy a luxury or beachfront home, now is really the time to take the plunge. If you wait for prices to decline further, then the mortgage rates may go higher making any “savings” you might get from that slightly lower price meaningless.
If you’d like more information on local market conditions, please email me at BrokerTrish@gmail.com or call 850-449-0908. You can also visit my website at www.ShadyTreeHomes.com for free homes searches, foreclosure lists & more!
• 5,000 sq. ft. single story - 
MLS® $875,000 - High Traffic Commercial
Oriole Beach, Gulf Breeze - High trafficked Gulf Beach Parkway in "Midway" Gulf Breeze, over 40,000 consumers pass daily. Steel building with hard coat stucco. Currently Arthur Rutenberg Sales Center. Space consists of large front room with wall to wall windows along highway, numerous offices spaces, full kitchen area, bathrooms and storage. This desirable building and location is endless for new opportunities of use. 30+ parking spaces and two 9 Ft garage doors on rear side of building.
Property information
• 1,014 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm townhouse "Downstairs Unit" - MLS® $109,900 - Remodeled Downstairs Unit
East Pensacola Heights, Pensacola - Renovated downstairs unit in Spyglass Point subdivision off Scenic Hwy. This is a spacious 2 bedroom 2 bathroom unit. It has new two tone decor paint, new ceiling fans, new light fixtures, all new faucets, new carpet, new two inch faux white blinds, new window treatments over the sliding glass doors in living room, new and repainted kitchen cabinets, new kitchen sink, newer upgrades appliances stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Master bath has new super oversized shower head, and walk-in closet. Inside laundry area with plenty of room for full size units off kitchen with storage shelves. Unit has a security system which is controled from the master bedroom. Living room has sliding glass doors that lead to a private covered patio with new landscaping and storage room. Community pool with maintenance free living. Association fee are $140 a month which includes building insurance, building maintenance, landscaping, trash removal, and management.
Property information
• 1,200 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm single story - MLS® $94,900 - Reduced $5000!
Navy Point, Pensacola - BACK ON THE MARKET. DON'T MISS THIS FABULOUSLY RENOVATED PROPERTY. ITS A BRAND NEW HOME. This property is better that renovated, its almost brand new. Everything has been done to this house. The back third of the house is dedicated to a private master suit, sitting area, master bath, and laundry room with a brand new washer and dryer. The master setting area opens up to new french doors to the fenced in backyard. The house in wonderfully renovated with warm neutral colors, tiled Kitchen, and both bathrooms. It has all black appliances, light fixtures, ceiling fans, 2 inch faux wood blinds, interior and exterior doors, drywall, base boards, tank less hot water heater, new HVAC, and plumbing. Kitchen has new cabins, countertops, pantry, sink, and faucet. House has nice size dining area and large living room. The other two bedrooms are off the living room with an additional all new bathroom. The exterior is brick and painted a very warm tan with black shutters. This in truly a wonderful home ready for your inspection and delight. THIS IS THE ONE!!!
Property information
• 3,693 sq. ft., 5 bath, 4 bdrm single story - MLS® $1,250,000 - Under Construction Now!
Soundside, Gulf Breeze - Luxurious, balanced, fully contemporary, this design is especially perfect for growing families or those who simply demand a bit more room. The four-bedroom plan-plus bonus room-presents a sprawling layout, with sight lines going off in all directions as you enter from the foyer into the living room. There are large gathering spaces with sophisticated touches, such as the arched openings with columns separating the living room and morning room. The bonus room at rear of home offers an exceptional view through triple windows and it's conveniently situated adjacent to a door to the cabana and wraparound lanai. Many extras, some to include wood and ceramic flooring, architectural and design detailing, wood cabinetry, granite countertops, wet bar, fireplace, 3 1/2 side entry garage and so much more.
Property information
Crown Moulding Throughout!
• 936 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm 3 story "2nd Story Unit-Elevator Available" - MLS® $120,000 - Great new renovations!
Scenic Highway, Pensacola - You will enjoy a lovely view of Escambia Bay from your second floor balcony, or just sitting at your Dining Room table! Your view also overlooks the courtyard and brand new inground swimming pool, along with lush, tropical landscaping. This unit was completely remodeled by an owner who wanted to spend the rest of his days here, and the choice of fixtures, cabinetry and other features reflects his great sense of style. You will go wild over the tile inlays and the dental moulding, not to mention the sparkling blue bath tiles that make you feel as if you are stepping into the clear, blue ocean rather than a bathroom! This kitchen is one of the most fabulous you will find in Bayview Terrace, with a large pantry and cabinets to the ceiling for additional storage. The kitchen has a large cut-out to the Living Room with breakfast bar, and another peek-a-boo cutout to the Dining area. The Living Room has a lovely light-colored wood laminate, while the Dining and Kitchen boast cermic tile with a tile inlay transition. Did I mention that the unit comes COMPLETELY FURNISHED??? All the Seller wants to keep is his personal mementos, so the fabulous furniture is yours (if you want it-if not, we'll be happy to remove it) including all televisions and stereo equipment. Speaking of stereos, the whole condo is wired for sound with speakers in the Living Room and both bedrooms. The walls are insulated with extra soundproofing, and the bedrooms have high end berber carpet with extra plush padding. There are no popcorn ceilings here- the walls and ceilings are nicely textured. There is also a large "kick plate" base moulding. All rooms have upgraded ceiling fans and light fixtures. Start enjoying the relaxing views and breezes of Escambia Bay today at Bayview Terrace!
Property information
• 1,328 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm single story - MLS® $105,000 - Completely Remodeled!
Crescent Lake, Pensacola - This home is better than new. Its been completely renovated from top to bottom. The home has everything from new landscaping to new light fixtures. The home is a 3 bedroom 2 bathroom concrete block with new stucco front. The home features new interior and exterior paint, interior and exterior doors, new 12 X 12 wood deck, gas heat, electric hot water heater, newer AC compressor, new plumbing, newer insulated double pane windows, and new electrical. The kitchen has new solid maple cabinetry, new counter tops, new sink & faucet, new black dishwasher, electric stove, side by side refrigerator with ice and water in the door, and two new ceiling fans for the eat in kitchen. The home has new carpet, new paint, and ceiling fans in all bedrooms. The open living/family/dining room has new dark laminate wood floors. The master bedroom is to die for, it has it all. The master bedroom is oversized with more than plenty of room for a king size bed and all the furnishings. The master has its own and completely new bathroom with modern looking stand up shower, new tile in shower and floor, new toilet, new sink, faucet, and vanity. The master has two closets and one with a organizer in it. The master also has the laundry room in it with built in shelving and comes with a stackable washer and dryer. The home has all new two inch faux wood blinds. The second bathroom is also completely new which includes new tile shower and floor, new tub, new toilet, new sink, faucet, and vanity. This home has it all including the crown molding and a new sliding glass door off the living room to the new deck. Seller is also including a one year home warranty. This one won't last!!!
Property information
• 1,550 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm single story - MLS® $165,000 - Brick Home Built 2003
North Hill, Pensacola - A true 4 bedroom and two bath home with an inside laundry room and a two car garage. There is a lot of extras inside this exquisite home including a foyer with mosaic tile entry; 18" tile in the kitchen and dining area; tile in the hallway. The tiled master bathroom has a garden tub, a separate shower and a walk in closet. The guest bathroom is also tiled and has a garden tub and a separate shower. The living room and bedrooms have wall to wall carpet and two inch blinds. The back porch is covered with a brick knee wall just waiting to be enclosed. This terrific home is centrally located and convenient to the downtown area.
Property information
• 968 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm 3 story - MLS® $99,900
Scenic Heights, Pensacola - This ground floor unit comes with updated lighting fixtures and ceiling fans, new front door with multiple window panes to bring in the natural light, and additional entry door with screened door and screened windows so you can open up and feel the Bay breezes! Unit may be purchased as an investment property with tenant in place, or for a personal residence (sale is not subject to lease- tenant can be relocated upon closing). The inground community pool sits just outside your door with plenty of lush tropical landscaping. There is also a Bay view picnic area with a swing for you to enjoy the breezes from the water, watch the boats go by, and relax after a hard day at work. Make this your new home or vacation home!
Property information
• 936 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm 3 story "Ground Floor Unit" - MLS® $120,000 - Ground floor Bayview
Scenic Heights, Pensacola - Completely Remodeled ground floor unit with waterview of Escambia Bay. This unit has a lovely slate-look ceramic tile throughout (no carpet!). Unlike many other units in the complex, this unit has two FULL baths! The kitchen has a large cut-out window to the Living Area, allowing you to talk with guests while you prepare your meals. The newly installed complex pool is just outside your front door, and there are built-in barbeque grills and patio tables overlooking the Bay view for the use of all residents.
Property information
• 1,710 sq. ft. single story - MLS® $275,000 - Commercial HCD Zoning
North Pace, Pace - Great location for Professional Office, Retail, Art Gallery, Antique Shop, and many other uses! This is a high traffic area on Woodbine Road. The existing home has hardwood flooring and wrap-around porch. Two seperate buildings on the property could be used for storage or leased for additional income. Seller had planned to have an art gallery on premises with picture framing and art studio in outbuildings. The house does need a little work but is in pretty good shape. Owner will consider selling the home (having it moved elsewhere) and land seperately if Buyers are found for each.
Property information
• 1,134 sq. ft., 1 bath, 3 bdrm single story - MLS® $99,900 - Shines like new!
Aero Vista, Pensacola - Newly Renovated by JL Glenny Construction, this charming home is move-in ready! The hardwood floors in the Bedrooms, Living Room & Dining Room have been refinished and add to the wonderful character of the home. The kitchen offers brand new countertops, a black tile backsplash, new sink & pull-out faucet with shower feature & soap dispenser, new flooring, new gas stove with hood vent, new refrigerator, and a lovely arched doorway into the Dining Room. The large Dining Room has wood flooring and expanded windows overlooking the large, shady back yard. There are new aluminum double-frame insulated windows throughout the home, window blinds, new gas water heater, new plumbing & water lines under the house, new ceiling fans and light fixtures in all Bedrooms & Dining Room, new R38 blown-in insulation, and a completely new Bathroom to include pedestal sink, ceramic tile flooring, fixtures, bathtub & tub enclosure. The large entry Foyer with new ceramic tile can also be used as a Study or Sitting Area. All Bedrooms have wood floors & wiring for Cable TV. All new exterior doors and a new Garage Door have been added as well. The final touch to this charming home is the newly installed front entry deck with arbor, and the colorful new landscape plants with ornamental grasses and dwarf Nandina plants that blend well with the wonderful new mossy green paint on the exterior of the home and the red front entry door with glass insert. The community also offers a waterfront park with picnic area, and there is also a Marina for the boat lover in the family. If you are a golf-lover, the Pensacola Country Club is right across Barrancas from the Aero Vista Subdivision. Pensacola Naval Air Station and Downtown Pensacola are only minutes away. Don't delay- make this your new home today!
Property information
Upscale Remodel
• 936 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm 3 story "Ground Floor End Unit" - MLS® $139,900 - Bay View Condo
East Pensacola Heights, Pensacola - Premier ground floor end unit with the best view in the complex, and with oversize windows to enjoy that same view. This unit has undergone a complete renovation in the last 2 years and has been upgraded with ceramic tile throughout the living room, dining room, kitchen & baths, quality berber carpet in the bedrooms, high-end ceiling fan & light fixtures, stainless steel appliances (Stove, Dishwasher, Refrigerator & Microwave), stackable washer & dryer, and lots of stylish accents such as crown moulding and decorated brick wall inlays in the Living Room & Dining area. The Kitchen has a large cut-out to the Living Room, and you may enjoy the view of Escambia Bay while you prepare your meals. This complex has recently completed installation of a brand new inground pool and landscaping with a lush, tropical feel. Within walking distance to Skopelos, Scenic 90 Cafe, New Yorker Deli and many other restaurants, and only 5 minutes drive from Downtown Pensacola. You'll feel like you are on permanent vacation when you come home to the fabulous views and fresh breezes off the Bay! Start your vacation today...
Property information
• 936 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm 3 story "Ground Floor End Unit" - MLS® $139,900 - Bay View Condo
East Pensacola Heights, Pensacola
Property information