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        <title>National Realty of Brevard Blog</title>
        <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Brevard County's premier Florida Real Estate Blog. Valuable information about Housing Trends, Home Prices, Market Statistics, and more from National Realty of Brevard Inc.</description>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/surf-fishing-in-brevard-county.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/surf-fishing-in-brevard-county.html</link>
            <author>tosuzz@hotmail.com (Suzette Mattes)</author>
            <title>Surf Fishing in Brevard County</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Well folks, its the end of January and the fish are jumping more than ever in Brevard County. The Whiting fish are out as well as Pompano and Blues. Cast a line or two or three and set it in a pole holder and watch your line bobble up and down! When you see&nbsp; movement other than the movement of the tide, reel it in. Most likely and without you feeling it, you will have something at the other end. Probably a Pompano at this time of the year or Whiting. You never know, could be a big Blue Crab or Salt Water Catfish.If your looking for more of an active fishing experience put a silver spoon on and cast until you catch a blue. Some people like casting out, sitting back, relaxing and waiting for that catch. Others, as I do,&nbsp; prefer the continuous casting out and reeling back in hoping to reel in 'The Big One!' (some call this a workout for fishermen. I call it Fishing!) At this time of year in Melbourne Beach, you're pretty much guaranteed a tug on your line.Surprisingly, tempting bait for Pompano and Whiting are sand fleas. It seems just about anything out there right now is tempted by the sand fleas. So, if you can't dig them up, go to the local bait shop and ask for sand fleas, a Pompano rig and START FISHING. If you need help on how to hook the sand flea or how to filet your delicious catch, just email me. I'm more than happy to help to assist you and I can post a Youtube video.
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            <pubDate>Sun, 29 Jan 2012 10:46:43 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/something-to-consider-utilities-on-or-off.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/something-to-consider-utilities-on-or-off.html</link>
            <author>tosuzz@hotmail.com (Suzette Mattes)</author>
            <title>Something to consider:  Utilities on or off?</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
So I have a been working with a client that is from out of country and I have shown over a dozen homes to in the Melbourne area. At first she was convinced that it was a short sale she was looking for. A nice home for a nice price. Wow, that would be terrific! It wasn't until about the third house that she was shocked with the condition of most of them and she quickly learned the difference of short sales and regular homes on the market. &nbsp;One question she kept asking was "are the utilities on"? "How can I tell if there is a leak anywhere if I can not have the water on"? Ahh. Bingo. Brings to mind a question. Should homeowners leave the utilities on while trying to sell the home?&nbsp;Of course every situation is different and is on a case-by-case basis depending on the homeowners financial situation. Some would agree to keep the power on so that the home shows better. I agree, it keeps the air circulating in the home and a feeling that someone didn't just abandon the house. It can get creepy in some of them, especially after dark with a flash light. It 's also common in Florida that when the electricity is off in a home it quickly gets a musty smell. Not too pleasant.&nbsp;Some would disagree and say that homeowners who are selling are already struggling to pay their bills and find no reason to keep it on baring another expenses. Does it boil down to whether or not they are taking an interest in the house being sold or are they just walking away. &nbsp;Something to consider!
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            <pubDate>Fri, 02 Dec 2011 02:37:31 -0600</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/what-do-realtors-do-in-their-spare-time.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/what-do-realtors-do-in-their-spare-time.html</link>
            <author>beth@bethglover.com (Beth Glover)</author>
            <title>What do Realtors do in their spare time?</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Well, Beth Glover with National Realty of Brevard, Inc, has a plant nursery where she grows native and tropical plants and opens her gardens to the public once a year to show her customers what can be done with the &ldquo;right plants in the right space&rdquo;. Why plant native plants in your yard? With a good landscape design, they should reduce cooling and heating costs, conserve water, use fewer fertilizers and improve the appearance and usefulness of the landscape. They provide a screen for privacy, shade for comfort, and provide cover for the wildlife.Did you know that how you care for your yard affects our local water bodies and water quality? When it rains and the water runs through your yard and down the storm drain, it may ultimately end up in the Indian River Lagoon. Along with the water it is picking up trash, leaves, dirt, fertilizer, pesticides, waste and oils. We can all take steps to reduce runoff by simply redirecting the down spouts of your gutters so they flow in the yard and not the driveway, by using only fertilizers that contain slow-release Nitrogen and no Phosphorus, pick dog waste and use rain barrels.It is not hard to create a native garden, it just takes some planning. You do not have to be a landscape architect or an artist to have a workable design. You have to take into consideration where your septic tank, drain field, sewage line, underground utilities and overhead wires are located.&nbsp; Just think of it as your out door rooms and go from there.Remember: &lsquo;Going Native adds beauty, requires less maintenance, uses less fertilizers, conserves water, adds cover for the wildlife and brings in the butterflies and bees.Why GO NATIVE? Because by working together to conserve and save, we will all be doing our part to ensure that our natural resources can be enjoyed today and by our future generations.
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            <pubDate>Mon, 24 Oct 2011 02:39:10 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/what-should-i-do-if-i-am-having-a-hard-time-making-my-mortgage-payments.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/what-should-i-do-if-i-am-having-a-hard-time-making-my-mortgage-payments.html</link>
            <author>mariaakaps@aol.com (Maria Kaps)</author>
            <title>What should I do if I am having a hard time making my mortgage payments?</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Call your lender immediately to see if they can offer a solution. Next, start a to-do list so that you will be ready to answer any questions your lender may ask.Start a file for records relating to your property. Keep very detailed notes of all the contacts you make, including the date you called and what resulted from the conversation. Collect your proof of income, photocopy at least 2 weeks of pay stubs, 2 years of taxes, and 2 years of bank statements or other benefits you receive. Having good records readily available is very important.Write all of the reasons you got behind on your mortgage payments. When you speak to your lender they will want an explanation of the events that led up to the financial problems, write all of these reasons down in a hardship letter.&nbsp;Get the current market value for your home. This bit of information is important in exploring all of your options. Call a Licensed Realtor and ask for a Current Market Analysis or a Broker Price Opinion of the property. Most Realtors will do this report at no charge to you. &nbsp;Get a closing agency to prepare a preliminary HUD for so you will get a close estimate of the proceeds you will receive or the balance due from you if you decide to sell your home.Sometimes the best solution to get out of a financial mess is to sell your property and find something more affordable. Between working with your lender and Realtor, they should be able to help you devise a solution!
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            <pubDate>Sun, 21 Aug 2011 01:52:11 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/orlando-theme-parks-universal-studios.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/orlando-theme-parks-universal-studios.html</link>
            <author>gsbray@nationalrealtyfla.com (Gale Bray)</author>
            <title>Orlando Theme Parks - Universal Studios</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Universal Studios is one of the
most notorious Orlando theme parks. This park is home to more than 400 acres of
rides, attractions, film sets, productions, and a variety of other things to
see and do. There are four different experiences to be had here, as well as a
wide selection of accommodations that are right on-site, making it easier than
ever for people to have a great time. There are more than 40 rides and plenty
of great attractions that are based on the most popular films and television
shows in today's pop culture. 


Orlando theme parks offer something different for everyone, and
Universal Studios is the place to be for the movie buffs of the world. This
theme park has so many different attractions and rides to explore that everyone
is sure to find something that they love. People who are staying at resort
hotels within the Universal park area can get exclusive access to rides and
free experiences that other guests are going to have to pay for or that they
simply don't get access to. While most people, including Real Estate Agents, think of terror when they think
of Universal, there is a lot of action, adventure, and just plain fun to be
had, as well. 


There are six different themed
areas in Hollywood back lot, which is one of the most popular areas of the
park. This is home to a variety of movie-themed attractions and rides,
including Woody Woodpecker's KidZone where children can have a great time at
the park. Islands of Adventure is another park that is offered at Universal
Studios, and this is home to many comic book and cartoon heroes that have made
themselves known in the movies and television throughout history. There is
something for all ages and interests at every park, which is what makes
Universal such a great place to be. 


Whether your children are
beyond the magical age of Disney enjoyment or you simply have a taste for a
more thrilling and entertaining holiday, Universal Studios is among the best of
the Orlando theme parks when you want something a little more
adventurous. There is also a water park on the Universal Studios acreage,
allowing for a full-service theme park experience for anyone who wants it.
Family fun, film and TV entertainment, and a wild adventure are all waiting for
you at Universal Studios Orlando, which is a top-rated theme park in the
nation.
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            <pubDate>Sat, 06 Aug 2011 06:45:24 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/have-you-missed-mortgage-payments.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/have-you-missed-mortgage-payments.html</link>
            <author>jamesbiggin@aol.com (Jim Biggin)</author>
            <title>Have You Missed Mortgage Payments?</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Not Yet, But About to be Late?


Your not alone, homeowners across the
country are experiencing difficulties paying their mortgage. Based on a recent
study by Lender Processing Services (LPS) 6.38 million people were at least 30 days
late.


The most important thing a home owner
should do is act quickly. The faster a homeowner reacts the less challenging it
will be to resolve. If you are not late on your payments yet but will be soon,
communicate with your mortgage lender.&nbsp; 


Due
to the mortgage crisis most lenders are now taking a more proactive stance to
decrease there loan losses.




If you are 30 to 60 days late: Your lender
will attempt to contact you by phone and by mail.






If you are 90 days late: Most lenders will
contact you by mail demanding all past due amounts be paid within 30 days, and
some will start the foreclosure process.






120 days late or more: most lenders will
turn it over to their attorneys for foreclosure, and in most cases the
homeowner will be responsible for past due amounts as well as attorney fees.





If a homeowner has experienced a hardship
such as, loss of your job or loss of a spouses job, divorce, job transfer,
death of a spouse. There are several alternatives to foreclosure.


Contact me for a free report on 10 options that
homeowners have if they are in a mortgage they no longer can afford, it will
out line the pros and cons of different options available to you


It is my goal to help homeowners stay in
their home or help them relieve the stress of a mortgage they can no longer
afford and regain financial stability faster, with out going through the
financial damage of a foreclosure.



So if you or someone
you care about has a mortgage they no longer can afford please contact me I can
help navigate through this process.



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            <pubDate>Sun, 24 Jul 2011 08:20:29 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/orlando-theme-parks-universals-island-of-adventure.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/orlando-theme-parks-universals-island-of-adventure.html</link>
            <author>gsbray@nationalrealtyfla.com (Gale Bray)</author>
            <title>Orlando Theme Parks - Universals Island of Adventure</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Islands of Adventure is a sister
park to Universal Studios, and has a variety of attractions for people who
really want the most thrilling holiday that they can get at a theme park.
Although Florida is full of attractions and theme parks, this one
consistently ranks as a popular choice among people of all ages. 


Almost every one of the Orlando theme parks has a specific theme or type of character that
the park is modeled after, including Islands of Adventure. This park is home to
Marvel Comics rides and characters, including things like the Incredible Hulk
Coaster, Marvel Superhero Island, and the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. There is
something to see and do for everyone, but you'd better like adventure if you
come to this park. The rides are designed for maximum thrills, and are not for
the faint of heart. Although there are some milder rides in the park for young
children and those who want something a little less intimidating, the focus
here is mostly on adventure. 


When you are choosing the right Orlando theme parks for your vacation, you have to take the time
to explore all of the options that are available. Islands of Adventure is a
great choice for anyone who enjoys Marvel Comics or who is just looking for an
adventure-filled time at a great theme park. Whether you are looking for
something for a family, a group of friends, or any type of people, there is
definitely adventure to be found here for your holiday. 



Universals Islands of
Adventure is a great vacation stop for anyone in the area. The cost of
admission is well-worth what you get for the money and the attractions are sure
to impress everyone who visits. Most of the information regarding this park is
identical to Universal Studio, but you can find out information by calling the
Guest Services department and talking to them. You can also find out more about
visiting this park by checking out the website. If you want the best thrills of
Orlando theme
parks, this is definitely one park to put on your list when you are in Florida and looking for a good time.
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            <pubDate>Wed, 20 Jul 2011 01:15:59 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/fishing-in-brevard-county.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/fishing-in-brevard-county.html</link>
            <author>tosuzz@hotmail.com (Suzette Mattes)</author>
            <title>Fishing In Brevard County</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
For sometime now, friends and family have been asking me to go fishing with them. They would go day or night, weekday or weekend, from dusk to dawn it didn't matter. Being the&nbsp;"sterotypical" woman&nbsp;I was hesitant for a long time until I heard about the fun they were having and what they were catching. They had been shrimping and fishing&nbsp;in the Banana River as well as the Indian River both located on the East Coast of Florida. Did you know that you can catch shrimp in these rivers by traps and in the hundreds sometimes in just a few hours? These shrimp are no little guys either, they are jumbo shrimp&nbsp;and delicious! I didn't know until I tasted them at a friends house and "WOW" they were delicious.

You might be thinking to yourself "I'm not eatting what comes out of that river" but you would be so suprised, I promise,&nbsp;don't snub your nose up just yet.

Florida is the fishing capital of the world for it's abundance of fishing resources and outdoor activities. The Indian River as well as the Banana River are home to several fish some of which are red fish, seatrout, catfish, bluegill and snook. With&nbsp;so many spots to fish, you can easily find yourself in a quiet and relaxing fishing hole. You can fish along the causways, under the causways or off just about any dock!

I recently went fishing with some friends and caught a few catfish and bluegill but threw them all back because they were all too small. Florida, like many states, has rules and regulations about the size and type of fish that you can keep. Aside from fishing, Brevard County has a vast amount of outdoor activities to enjoy and fishing is just one of many!

If your more of a deep sea fisher then we have Cape Canaveral and world famous
Cocoa Beach&nbsp;just around the corner to give you that deep sea charter fishing experience!&nbsp;&nbsp;For you women out there who don't&nbsp;care much for the part of taking the fish off the hook or&nbsp;touching the
fish,&nbsp;you don't need to worry because&nbsp;usually the capain or the mate on the charter can do it all for you! You pretty much just bait your hook of which they have it already cut up for you. They take it off, clean it and filet it. You just take it home and cook it, or take it to one of many of Brevard County's fine restaurants and ask if they will cook up your very own catch of the day!
Yummy!
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            <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jul 2011 07:01:25 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/offshore-investors-target-us-commercial-real-estate.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/offshore-investors-target-us-commercial-real-estate.html</link>
            <author>nrmelb@nationalrealtyfla.com (Alan King)</author>
            <title>Offshore Investors Target US Commercial Real Estate</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
According to a
survey recently published in the Financial Times of London, foreign investors
spent $49 billion on US commercial real estate in the second quarter of this
year. This is an increase of almost 56% over the second quarter of 2010. The
survey sites several factors for the increase including more easily obtained
financing and more appealing rental yields. Rental yields are calculated as the
income an owner receives as a percentage of the propertys purchase price. The
average yields on US
office, industrial, retail and hotel sites remained over 6% during the quarter
contrasted against an average yield of 3.3% for ten year treasury securities
for the same time period.


The survey further
states the global investment community is starved for yield oriented products.
Differing from other investment products, real estate throws off immediate cash
flow, improving the initial yield and has long term growth potential.
Investment was further spurred by the weakness in the dollar. In the past 12
months the US
currency has fallen by almost 10 percent making US assets appealing to foreign
investors.



Prospects remain strong for the remainder of
2011 according to the survey. The forecast for the second half of 2011 is for
an additional $240 billion in transactions.
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            <pubDate>Thu, 14 Jul 2011 04:26:01 -0500</pubDate>
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            <guid>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/orlando-theme-parks-sea-world.html</guid>
            <link>http://www.nationalrealtyfla.com/blog/orlando-theme-parks-sea-world.html</link>
            <author>gsbray@nationalrealtyfla.com (Gale Bray)</author>
            <title>Orlando Theme Parks - Sea World</title>
            <description> <![CDATA[ 
Sea World is easily one of the
most popular Orlando theme parks for families and animal lovers who want the
best of Florida attractions. The park has been in operation since 1973, and is
home to a variety of animals, shows, and rides that can be enjoyed by people of
all ages. The watery surroundings suggest brining a change of clothing and
waterproof cameras to capture all of the fun, as well as a sense of adventure
if you want to feed the dolphins or check out other extreme attractions at this
fun amusement park. 


Sea World Theme Park is best known for being
home to Shamu and other Orca whales that delight visitors with their tricks and
stunts during the Believe Show, Blue Horizons, Odyssea, and Shamu Rocks
America. These shows are the primary reason that people choose Sea World over
other Orlando theme parks, but they only last so long. Fortunately, there are
plenty of other things that you can see and do while you are at Sea World,
including rides and attractions for all ages. The most popular rides include
Journey to Atlantis, Wild Arctic, Shamu Express (for kids), and Kraken, which
is based on the legendary sea monster. 


There is so much to see and do
when you are visiting Orlando theme parks like Sea World, but you are sure to
have a great time. If you want something a little more adventurous, check out
the longest underwater tunnel in the world (of its kind) in the Shark
Encounter. There is a long tunnel that travels under more than 50 sharks and
barracudas that are swimming in a beautiful reef setting above and all around
as you're passing through the tunnel. For family fun that is designed for kids,
head over to Shamu's Happy Harbor for kids' rides and slides that are sure to
bring a little fun to everyone. 



There is so much to see and
do at Sea World! This park is home to plenty of animals, water adventures, and
family-oriented fun for all ages. The shows often include audience
participation and there are many different ways that you can have a great time
while you are on vacation if you are at Sea World. For residents, getting a
pass is almost second nature simply because it's so fun to go back time and
time again to enjoy the attractions.
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            <pubDate>Mon, 11 Jul 2011 05:59:40 -0500</pubDate>
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