Beautiful 3BR/2BA in a great location and shows like a model home!

Address: 11838 Hidden Stagecoach Court, Jacksonville FL 32223

This home is immaculately maintained. There is a split floor plan and a neutral color palette throughout. Flooring consists of tile in common rooms and neutral wall to wall carpet in all of the bedrooms. There is custom tile work in foyer. All of the bedrooms, are large and have great natural light. The kitchen is very spacious and has an eat in area with chandelier. There are a lot of cabinets and counter space. Upgrades include; exterior carriage lights, landscaping, custom blinds on all windows, great custom closet in BR #2 w/ shelves, drawers and adjustable hanging rods. Attached 2 car garage. This home backs onto a nature preserve. All ceiling fans, custom lighting and chandeliers convey. The refrigerator and the washer & dryer are excluded. This community's convenient location offers a variety of leisure activities like shopping, golf courses, biking/hiking trails, water recreation in Doctor's Inlet, the St Johns River and Black Creek.

Directions: I-295 south on San Jose to right on Hidden stage coach to left on Hidden Stage Coach Court to home on right.

We have two open houses this weekend. The first one is in Eagle Harbor on Fleming Island on Saturday and the second is in Oakleaf Plantation on Sunday. Stop by and see these beautiful homes!


Saturday, May 31, 2008, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 1817 Shady Grove Lane, Orange Park, FL 32003

Move in Ready 3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath home located on a corner cul-de-sac lot! Upgrades include; new tile, carpet, and paint that give this home a neutral color palette throughout. There is a large separate office w/ double sided fireplace and built ins. Large Master Bedroom and Master Bath. This home has high ceilings and a screened lanai w/ disappearing sliders that open the home to the back yard. All of this and Eagle Harbor amenities and low CDD fees!


Directions: From I-295, South on Hwy 17, Right on Eagle Harbor Parkway, Right on Forest Park, Right on Shelter Cove, Right on Shady Grove.

Sunday, June 1, 2008, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 522 Millhouse Lane, Orange Park, FL 32065

Contemporary pool home on a large, fenced preserve lot. This home has 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, designer lighting, high ceilings and a spacious, open floor plan with hardwood floors and new carpet. The Kitchen has all stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar and beautiful, custom 42 inch hickory cabinets. The large screened lanai in the rear overlooks the sparkling heated pool and spa with ceramic tile. Sprinkler system, security system and a 3 car garage.


Directions: Argyle Forrest Blvd - L on OakLeaf Village Pkwy (At Publix) - L on Parkview (across from Athletic Center) - at roundabout R onto Laurelwood - L on Wakemont- L on Piedmont Manor - L on Millhouse.

Or have you considered renting your home?

Perkins Realty offers full property management services, and who better to manage your investment than the Perkins Team?

Here’s what we guarantee:

• Tenant Placement – We find more tenants because we do more advertising.
• Multiple Listing Service (MLS) – All local REALTORS® will know that your house is for rent.
• Electronic Lockbox – We make it easy for REALTOR® to show your home. They would rather show homes with a lockbox than have to go across town to pick up a key.
• Tenant Screening – Credit, criminal, eviction history and more.
• Lease Preparation – Through a Florida Attorney that specializes in Landlord/Tenant law, at no additional cost to you.
• Escrow Services – We escrow the deposits and account for all funds.
• Repair Requests – We personally inspect problems before we orders repairs. Often it’s an easy fix and will cost you nothing.
• Rent Collection – We collect the rent and send you a check.
• Free Truck – People will rent your home over a similar home because they can use our truck for free to move!

“It doesn’t cost anything to talk to us, but it might cost you if you don’t!”

By MITCH STACY
Associated Press Writer

TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. - Living on a canal just six blocks from the Gulf of Mexico, Dennis and Martie Fagan don't mess around when it comes to preparing for hurricane season.

Around this time of year, they take stock of the disaster supplies that remain stored year round in an upstairs room. And they review a plan for what will be packed into their cars if they're ordered to evacuate, which has happened three times since they moved there in 1993.

"You're silly if you don't anticipate something happening," said Dennis Fagan, an executive at a Tampa software company. "When we moved down there (to the beach), we realized that despite the predictions of how many hurricanes there are going to be, it only takes one. And you better be prepared for it."

That's a message that state emergency managers preach incessantly, although after two relatively quiet hurricane seasons it threatens to be lost in the din of other challenges facing homeowners these days.

Busy and destructive storm seasons of 2004 and '05 had shaken residents of coastal states from their malaise. Homeowners rushed to stockpile bottled water, batteries and cans of soup, bracing for the next big one.

With another dire forecast for the storm season that starts June 1 - researchers predict 15 named storms and a "better than average" chance of a major hurricane hitting the United States - emergency managers say it's a good idea to look again at disaster kits and those storm provisions that have been gathering dust in the corner of the garage.

"We're in our preseason," Florida Division of Emergency Management spokesman Mike Stone said. "You have preseason for ball players, and it's time for Floridians to get into that spring-training kind of mode. Now is really the time."

Among the suggestions:

1. Review and update important documents, such as medical records that might have changed since the disaster kit was assembled. It's also a good time to read homeowner's insurance policies again to review the coverage. Keep documents in a waterproof bag in the disaster kit.
2. Check use-by dates on canned goods and other perishables. Rotate them out or donate them to a food bank if they are getting near expiration. Doug Douglass of the Tampa Bay chapter of the American Red Cross suggests using a permanent marker to write purchase and expiration dates on cans and boxes of stored food.
3. The Red Cross recommends replacing bottled water if it has been sitting around for more than six months.
4. Check the batteries in flashlights, radios and other electronics. And make sure you have others on hand. Stone said people tend to "borrow" batteries from their hurricane kits for Christmas toys and other things throughout the year and forget to replace them. Make sure there are plenty on hand and that they are within their use-by dates.
5. If plastic tarps, cloth cots or blankets are being stored in a garage or some other humid place, open them up and check for deterioration.
6. Pull out the gas generator, check the oil, gas it up and make sure it will start. Like cars, generators get cranky if they're not run.

"If it's part of your tool kit, you want to go out there and practice," Stone said.

Regarding food and water, disaster managers advise storing as much as you have room for.

"The conventional wisdom has been to have three-days supply on hand at your disposal," Stone said. "At the very least have three. If you can make it five, better. If you can make it seven, even better."

On the Net:

• National Hurricane Center Disaster Supply Kit
• American Red Cross  
• Florida Division of Emergency Management

What to include in disaster kit
The Associated Press

Emergency managers recommend these basics for disaster preparedness:

• Water (at least a gallon daily per person for three to seven days)
• Nonperishable packages or canned food (enough for three to seven days)
• Manual can opener
• Paper plates and plastic utensils.
• Rain gear, waterproof shoes
• Bedding
• First aid kit, including prescription drugs
• Toiletries and personal hygiene items
• Extra eye glasses, contact lenses and supplies
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Battery-operated radio
• Tool kit
• Plastic bucket with tight lid
• Traditional corded telephone (in case electricity is lost)
• Cash (ATMs might not be working after a storm)
• Pet care items, including leashes and carriers
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Garbage bags, paper towels and toilet paper
• Disinfectant
• Household chlorine bleach
• Plastic sheeting/tarps
• Copies of important documents, including wills, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, stocks and bonds, passports, Social Security cards, immunization records, bank account and credit card numbers, inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers, family records and medical records. Keep them in a waterproof bag.
• Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
• Toys, games and books for the kids
• Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise it

We want to thank all those who have served and are now serving in the armed forces around the world and their families for their honor, courage and commitment to the United States of America. We hope that you all have a Happy Memorial Day.

Soft Existing-Home Sales Expected to Rise Midsummer

A flat pattern in home sales activity should continue for the next couple months before improving over the summer, according to the latest forecast by the National Association of REALTORS®.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the extent of an expected recovery hinges on better access to affordable loans. “Things are beginning to improve, but the availability of affordable mortgages is uneven around the country and sometimes within metropolitan areas,” he said. “As anticipated, we continue to look for a soft first half of the year, for both housing and the economy, before notable improvements in the second half. Some time is needed for FHA and new conforming jumbo loans to become widely available.”

The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in March, edged down 1 percent to 83 from a downwardly revised level of 83.8 in February, and was 20.1 percent lower than the March 2007 index of 103.9.

NAR President Richard F. Gaylord, a broker with RE/MAX Real Estate Specialists in Long Beach, Calif., said additional costs in many markets are hindering a recovery. “Our members are telling us that more buyers are looking at homes but are slow in signing contracts, and that’s contributing to the weakness in pending home sales,” he said. “In many cases buyers are waiting for greater access to affordable credit, especially in higher cost areas, but some are disappointed with what appears to be unnecessarily restrictive lending requirements. The good news this week is there is some discussion toward relaxing some of the burdensome lending practices.”

Existing-home sales are projected to rise from an annual pace of 4.95 million in the first quarter to 5.82 million in the fourth quarter. For all of 2008, existing-home sales are likely to total 5.39 million, and then rise 6.1 percent to 5.72 million next year. “Although more than half of local markets are expected to see price growth this year, the aggregate existing-home price will decline 2.4 percent in 2008, driven by a relatively few markets that are very oversupplied,” Yun said. The median price is forecast at $213,700 this year before rising 4.1 percent to $222,600 in 2009.

Some areas already are seeing sales increases, underscoring that all real estate is local. “Although some market adjustments are necessary, a downward overshooting of the housing market would cause unnecessary loss in economic output, income and jobs,” Yun said. “It is critical to stimulate housing demand by inducing fence sitters back into the market. A home buyer tax credit on any home purchase would accomplish that.”

New-home sales are expected to fall 30.9 percent to 536,000 this year before rising 10.1 percent to 590,000 in 2009. Housing starts, including multifamily units, will probably drop 29.5 percent to 955,000 in 2008, and then rise 1.3 percent to 967,000 next year. The median new-home price is estimated to fall 3.7 percent to $238,000 this year, and then rise 5.4 percent in 2009 to $250,900.

The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is likely to rise gradually to 6.2 percent by the end of the year, and then average 6.3 percent in 2009. NAR’s housing affordability index is expected to rise 10 percentage points to 127.0 for all of 2008.

Article published by Custom House Publishers, Inc., Worthington, OH

Address: 2324 Keaton Chase Dr, Orange Park, FL Located in Eagle Harbor on Fleming Island, just south of Orange Park, FL

Immaculate 5/4 home w/lagoon views! Some of the upgrades include new granite counters and new appliances in the pro-grade kitchen and new custom vanities in the MBR. Too many extras to list them all! You must see this magnificent home to appreciate!!

Directions: From 17 S to R on Eagle Harbor Pkwy, to R on Lakeshore Dr, to L on Keaton Chase Dr. Follow to the end of the cul-de-sac. Home is on the right.

Address: 7220 Capercaillie Trail, Jacksonville, FL 32210 Located in the Hyde Grove area of West Jacksonville, FL

Unique 3/2 all cedar log home with over 2,600 sqft of living space on 1/2 acre wooded lot with a creek in the rear. Vaulted ceilings and cedar beams. Beautiful hardwood floors, new tile in the kitchen & baths. New carpet in bedrooms & the loft/bonus room. The loft has a large wood burning stone fireplace, pool table & wet bar w/ stained glass light fixtures. Two bedrooms upstairs, master bedroom & bath downstairs.

New Listing in Fleming Island Plantation!

Address: 1303 Brookgreen Way, Orange Park, FL 32003

Located on Fleming Island, just south of Orange Park, FL

Address: 3232 County Road 209, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043.

Located in Five Oaks subdivision, just south of Fleming Island and Orange Park.








Gorgeous 4/2 home on a large treed lot!

Wow! This home begins with curb appeal! Beautiful landscaping leads to the large slate tile entrance that opens to foyer and the formal living room and dining room. There is a large eat in kitchen, with closet pantry, solid surface counter tops, 52" walnut cabinets and a breakfast bar. The family room has an electric fireplace with marble tile and custom mantle, designer ceiling fan and 12 ft sliding glass doors that open to the lanai. The spacious master bedroom is light and bright with walk in closets, custom ceiling fan and access door to the lanai. The large master bathroom has a cultured marble garden tub and counters, split, his and hers vanities, separate glass enclosed/tile shower, upgraded cabinets and separate water closet. The home has a neutral color palette throughout, 12 ft ceilings in most rooms, arched doorways and large bedrooms. Upgrades include; 500+ sqft screen enclosure over the lanai, 52 in. kitchen walnut cabinets, 30 yr shingles, custom windows, lighting and fixtures, tile foyer, 5 inch baseboards, electric fireplace w/ custom mantle, tile foyer and window blinds on all windows. All of the kitchen appliances, custom drapes, curtains, blinds, designer lighting fixtures and ceiling fans convey. The side yards are large enough for a pool on one side and boat storage on the other! Five Oaks subdivision is located in a country setting, yet close to Fleming Island, Orange Park, Jacksonville, shopping and the St Johns River. This home shows beautifully!

We have two open houses this weekend, one is in Eagle Harbor and the other is in Harbor Island on Fleming Island. If you are looking for a home for sale in Orange Park, stop by and have a look at these beautiful homes!

Saturday, May 17, 2008 from 11:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 1558 Hammock Bay Ct, Orange Park, 32003. Located in Harbor Island on Fleming Island, just south of Orange Park.

This is a gorgeous 1,950 sq. ft., 4/2 home with upgrades that include; granite counter tops and new cabinets in entertainment area, marble counter top in MBA, crown molding throughout, fresh paint, marble fireplace, ceiling fans, blinds, kitchen granite counter tops, cabinet w/ molding & stainless appliances, lighting fixtures in kitchen, living and family rooms. Garage converted to home theater w/ 106" screen & recliner chairs. Detached 6x10 shed. *The total sq. ft. of this home includes the home theater. If it is converted back into a garage, the sq. ft. of the home will be 1,770.

Directions: From I-295 S to Hwy 17 S to R into Harbor Island Drive to L on Starboard to R on Dockside to R on Hammock Bay Ct.

Sunday, May 18, 2008 from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 1817 Shady Grove Lane, Orange Park, Fl 32003. Located in Eagle Harbor on Fleming Island, just south of Orange Park.

This is a move in ready 1,998 sq. ft., 3/2home located on a corner cul-de-sac lot! Upgrades include; new tile, carpet, and paint that give this home a neutral color palette throughout. There is a large separate office w/ double sided fireplace and built ins. Large Master Bedroom and Master Bath. This home has high ceilings and a screened lanai w/ disappearing sliders that open the home to the back yard. All of this and Eagle Harbor amenities and low CDD fees!

Directions: From I-295, South on Hwy 17, Right on Eagle Harbor Parkway, Right on Forest Park, Right on Shelter Cove, Right on Shady Grove.

Address: 1637 Misty Lake Drive, Orange Park, Fl 32003. Located in Eagle Harbor on Fleming Island, just south of Orange Park.

Move in ready 5/3 home with gorgeous lagoon views!

This is a beautifully maintained home with a split floor plan, ceramic tile, newer carpet & ceiling fans. Custom crown molding, arched doorways, large windows & new paint. Great kitchen with lots of storage in the 42 in. pickled oak cabinets, solid surface countertops and a breakfast bar. The formal living room & dining rooms have custom molding and chair rail. The large master bedroom has large windows, an access door to the lanai, his and hers walk in closets and looks onto the back yard and lagoon views. The master bathroom has a separate enclosed shower, garden tub and his and hers split vanities. The large bonus room upstairs overlooks the back yard and lagoon views and has a full bath. The lanai has recently been screened in and has a ceiling fan. The front & back yards are beautifully landscaped. The home has an attached 2 car garage. The lanai and front drive/entry have new sun decking. All built in appliances convey. The refrigerator and washer are negotiable.

Address: 1814 Sherwood Drive, Middleburg, FL 32068
List Price: $150,000

*We want to wish every Mom a very Happy Mother Day!!

SOLD!

Address: 1842 Harbor Island Drive, Orange Park, FL 32003

List Price: $250,000
Sold Price: $235,000

Listed on 4/28/08, Under Contract on 5/4/08!

Address: 542 Chinkapin Court, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
List Price: $290,000

Here’s some interesting Clay County demographic data……

1970-1980
Population in Clay County in 1970: 32,059
Population in 1980: 67,052

1990s-Today
Population in Clay County in 1990: 105,986
Population in 2000: 140,814
Population in 2007: 182,023

The Jacksonville Statewide & Metropolitan Areas (MSAs) showed a 40 % decrease in Realtor sales from February 2007 to February 2008. During the same time period, the median sales price decreased 9 % to $182,200. The Jacksonville MSA includes Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties.

Attraction and growth of major Business Service industries can be attributed to Clay Count’s outstanding workforce, community leaders and county officials dedicated to advancing quality economic development.

*Information provided by the Clay County Chamber of Commerce