If you’re dreaming of a White Christmas, okay. Maybe a Miami Beach holiday isn’t exactly your thing. But if you’re looking for a holiday packed with fun, excitement and things to do – with the added bonus of gorgeous, sunny weather – the Miami Beach area has everything you’re looking for, and more. So read on for just a taste of what’s on tap for this holiday season.

If you’re a traditionalist (or a ballet lover), no holiday season is complete without taking in a performance of “The Nutcracker.” Well, the Miami area has not one, not two, but a whopping FOUR places to experience the annual favorite. Check it out downtown, at the Gusman Center for the Performing Arts OR the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, in North Miami Beach at the Julius Littman Performing Arts Theater, or in Little Havana at the Miami-Date County Auditorium.

For something a little more – alternative – to the traditional Christmas concert, Miami’s Gay Men’s Chorus will present the humorously-titled “You Bet Your Brass” at Temple Emmanu-El, Miami Beach. Since it’s taking place at a temple, I can only assume it will have a little celebration for the Hanukkah celebrant as well!

Of course, if you really, absolutely must have that “winter wonderland” experience during the holidays, don’t miss Winter Nights & Lights at Key Biscayne’s Miami Seaquarium. This annual event, which runs through the New Year, gives Miami residents the sense that they are far, far away, in a place that’s cold. Like North Dakota.

Of course, for most of us, experiencing a warm, sunny, Miami Beach Christmas is one of the main reasons we invested in Miami Beach real estate in the first place! So deck the halls of your luxury condos and homes and get ready to celebrate another beautiful holiday in the sun with your family and friends.

After all, that’s what the holiday season is all about.

by Lisa Canfield

Whether you want Santa to bring you this…

Or this….!?

Once you buy that piece of pricey Miami Beach real estate, you need to decorate it. Which is why this year’s eighth annual Art Basel Miami Beach, held at the revamped Miami Beach Convention Center, was an essential stop for those with bare walls, those who love art, and those who just wanted to check out some really cool and beautiful things — along with celebrities like superagent Mike Ovitz and movie star Val Kilmer.

The mood at the VIP opening was decidedly bright, with attention actually focused on the art instead of the economy (unlike last year’s post Wall Street crash event). Several pricey pieces sold. In fact, opening night guests were more intimidated by the width of the aisles at the convention center and the amount of walking necessary to get from booth to booth than they were by the prices.

Artists represented at the event ran the gamut, from top artists like James Rosenquist and Guillermo Kuitca (who has a current retrospective at the Miami Art Museum), to those known for a different kind of artistic talent, like “Rambo” and “Rocky” star Sylvester Stallone. Apparently, he is a very accomplished oil painter. Who knew? Top galleries from around the country were on hand showcasing their top talent, and many were pleased with the results of the show.

Of course, not all the works exhibited fell under the heading of “serious artwork.” Unless you consider a chubby tree made of silver pipes, or a beach umbrella festooned with Christmas decorations, or a bunch of silver chains arranged to spell the word “Prozac,” serious art.
There’s always room for the wild and wacky at Art Basel, including the Chinese artist who has changed his name to MadeIn. As in “Made in China.”

Or, if one if his pieces winds up hanging in the wall of one of Miami’s luxury condos and homes, “Made in Miami.” You never know.

by Lisa Canfield

<— Worth a Click —>

Thanksgiving has come and gone. Across the United States, trees twinkling with lights and jolly, waving Santas dot the landscape. The days are getting shorter, the weather is getting colder. It’s difficult not to notice that the Christmas season is in full swing.

Believe it or not, the same is true here in sunny South Florida. Okay, so we may not experience frosty mornings or watch the sun go down at 4pm (not that we would want to!), but we have our own unmistakable sign that the holiday season is here.

I’m talking, of course, about the return of the Snowbirds.

The Snowbirds’ annual migration south is greeted with mixed emotions by those who view their piece of Miami Beach real estate is their primary place of residence.

Suddenly, the beaches are a lot more crowded – and often with pasty, pale looking people with nary a tan line to be found. There may be a wait to get in to your favorite nightspot – the same place where you could just wander in on a whim last July. And as for the traffic – it’s like the number of cars on the street suddenly quadruples.

Even for party-happy South Floridians, staying in and ordering a pizza might look like a more viable option than a night on the town.

But as once-empty luxury condos and homes across the Miami Beach area fill up once again, not everyone is suffering. For local businesses all over town, this truly is the season to be jolly – especially since it lasts until next spring. The Snowbirds are what keep our South Florida economy humming. And for that, we all hope that they never face extinction.

So if you happen to be a Snowbird, let me personally welcome you back for another warm and toasty winter enjoying our beaches and nightspots. Who knows? With Aventura real estate and Bal Harbour real estate prices so low – along with the rest of our beautiful beach cities — you might buy in and decide to stay year round!

by Lisa Canfield

Bay View Loft

Happy Holiday as we enter the day before thanksgiving with excitement & amazement both how much food we can stuff ourselves with plus the unfolding of the new year. Rounding off the final weeks of 2009, I am Very Thankful for all of you and my direct clients that have made this business thrive in a market that many would claim is quite challenging. So much will be unfolded in January with 2 new web sites and 2 new blogs surely to add value, substance and knowledge to the local Miami Beach real estate market. I end this week before leaving to see family with a blog post “deal of the month” that is under the radar because of it’s asking price yet will be a stellar beach pad (or should I say loft) for the savvy buyer. If you would like to see a new deal posted each month like this one, please comment below and let us know. Any questions pertaining, I’m easy to reach at 786.273.7326.

Welcome to Bay View Loft 206

Located in Miami Beach at 2000 Bay Drive right off the Kennedy Causeway as you enter East into the Miami Beach welcome sign. The loft complex is comprised of only 22, 2 story lofts with the vast majority facing out to the direct bay offering unobstructed bay views and the Grand View Palace Marina across the waterway. As of September, the association was financially healthy with a reserve fund in tact and a very low maintenance fee of only $435 monthly. It is unfortunately an owner occupied short sale so will take 3 to 7 months before possession occurs but for the patient buyer, should show great returns over the years. The rental income is $2,000 month and $2,500 for a seasonal lease (permitted at 3 month intervals).

• 1,515 Square Feet 2 bedroom 2.5 bath (fully equipped)
• 2 Parking Spaces (garage)
• Asking $324,900 (down from the $735k in 2006, $699k in 2007 $574,900 in 2008)
• Paid $469,900 in 2005
• Folio #02-32-10-059-0110
• 2008 County Assessed Value $646,800 (Assessed at $485,100 in 2009)
• 2008 Tax Bill $13,113.74
• Yours truly just sold #205 last month for only $240,000 as REO steal
• Therefore make an offer…
• More Photos here on Flickr
• MAP of Property

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I know this is a cheesy video but had to do it along with saying HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

We like to think of the denizens of our local Miami Beach Real Estate and surrounds as hip, happening, stylish types. But when it comes to the rest of the world, you won’t see Sunny Isles or Aventura listed next to Paris and Milan as a fashion capital.

Maybe the Style Gods haven’t gotten past those Mad Men-era memories of blue haired old ladies and old guys in brightly colored polyester pants. Or maybe they’re stuck in the “80s, with visions of Don Johnson and his rumpled, pink linen wardrobe stuck in their heads.

Or we could just blame the Kardashians.

Still, anyone who calls a piece of South Beach Real Estate home knows that while, yes, there are plenty of girls in barely-there dresses and guys in Ed Hardy T’s crowding the streets, most of those people don’t even live here! In other words, it’s the tourists – and maybe the Kardashians – who are giving our fair city a bad rap when it comes to style.

Well, those days are about to be over. While our lack of seasons – something I personally see as a plus – eliminates the need for winter coats, Miami style is about taking resort wear to the ultimate level. And come on, what would you rather be wearing than resort wear? A hundred-pound wool coat over your cashmeres, over your long johns? No clothing is more fun to wear than resort wear, and no one does it better than the city where it’s summer all year long.

So this Friday, come out and celebrate just how stylish our city is, when the Miami Fashion Association, shows off their stuff. The location is one befitting the occasion—the oh-so-chic Webster Boutique on Collins Avenue. The guest list will include local guests of honor, designers Julian Chang and Danny Santiago.

We don’t know if the Kardashians will be there, but we do know the drinks start flowing at 7.

by Lisa Canfield

It’s a Zoo Out There- Miami Zoo

With the holidays just around the corner, and everyone being cost conscious, here is a great way to spend an enjoyable and inexpensive family day by visiting the Miami Zoo.  The zoo offers many shows, tours and rides. Something for everyone.

The Miami Zoo is located at 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177, Phone: (305) 251-0400, Fax: (305) 378-6381.   A day at the zoo and interaction with the zoo’s more than 2,000 residents is a perfect way to forget about your cares and woes, and have some fun!

Miami Zoo Shows and Rides

The zoo offers more than 100 exhibits, over 400 species, of which over 40 are endangered, and for nature lovers, over 1,000 different trees, palms and plants.

Here are just a few of the shows and rides you can expect to experience at your zoo adventure:

• Questzal’s World Show
• Wildlife Show
• Meet the Zookeeper
• Z.S.I. at Mercantil Commercebank Children’s Zoo
• Asia or Africa Safari Tram Tours
• Humpy’s Camel Rides
• Wildlife Carousel
• Behind the Scenes Evening Tours
• Behind the Scenes Keeper Tours
• Guided Walking Tour
• Little Wonder Tour
• Zoo Geographic Walking Tours
• Pineland Walking Tour

Charitable Donations

With tough economic times, the zoo and its wonderful inhabitants can really use your support. The Zoological Society of Florida (ZSF) depends on charitable gifts to fund educational and outreach programs such as the summer and spring camps and just the general operation of the zoo. For more information about making a donation or zoo show times and prices, please visit the Miami Zoo’s website at  http://www.miamimetrozoo.com/visit-the-zoo.asp?Id=21&rootId=1

Miami Beach Real Estate and Surrounding Communities

For those of you who are interested in making Miami Beach and the surrounding communities your home, there is a wide variety of waterfront/oceanfront condos and Intracoastal luxury condos and homes to choose from at today’s affordable prices. In fact, prices have not been this affordable, for a long time. If you are looking for Miami Beach real estate, South Beach real estate, Bal Harbour real estate, Sunny Isles Beach real estate or Golden Beach real estate, you will be amazed at the fabulous bargains waiting for you to discover.  With low interest rates, federal tax credits, and motivated sellers offering buyer incentives, what more could you ask for?

Significant RESPA changes coming

The new RESPA (Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act) regulations that were published on November 17, 2008, are going into effect January 1, 2010.  These changes were primarily enacted to protect borrowers against excessive loan fee charges, and to make it easier for borrowers to understand their key loan terms and to determine the exact charges they are responsible for paying at closing. Such terms include:

• Loan term.
• Interest rate and whether it is fixed or variable.
• Whether there is a pre-payment penalty should the borrower choose to refinance at a later date.
• If there is a balloon payment.
• Total closing costs.

Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and HUD-1 Regulations

HUD, the primary agency for enforcing RESPA laws, is requiring that loan originators (lenders and mortgage brokers) must provide borrowers with a standard Good Faith Estimate that specifically discloses all their key loan terms and closing costs. Closing agents (including title companies) must provide borrowers with the revised HUD-1 settlement statement. It will now be easier for borrowers to compare their GFE with their HUD-1 Settlement Statement because each designated line on the final HUD-1 will make a reference to the appropriate line from their GFE.

Borrowers can shop around and compare loan products quicker and easier as well. HUD estimates that consumers will also save as much as $700.00 at closing under the new regulations as a result of the elimination of many junk fees that lenders and closing agents were charging borrowers such as fees for courier, wiring, notary, photocopying, postage, overnight delivery, document preparation and document review.

The new regulations affect mortgage loan transactions and not cash transaction. However, cash buyers are also provided with a HUD-1 closing statement a few days before closing by the closing agent to determine their closing fees. Cash buyers should request a closing statement if it is not provided. These new regulations will help prevent lender fraud and make it easier for borrowers to shop for competitive loan products. For more information on the new regulations, visit the HUD website at http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/ramh/res/resparulefaqs.pdf.

A Few More Reasons

Just a few more reasons why buyers should be taking advantage of the many loan products available today to help them with their purchase of Miami Beach real estate, South Beach real estate, Bal Harbour real estate, Sunny Isles Beach real estate, or Golden Beach real estate. These loan rates and affordable luxury condos & homes won’t be around for ever so take advantage now!

New Tax Credits for Home Buyers

Some good news for a change! Congress approved the extension of the $8,000 federal first-time home buyer tax credit, and President Obama signed the law into effect on November 9, 2009. The tax credit was supposed to expire December 1, 2009, and has now been extended through April 30, 2010.

Even better, there has been an addition to the law allowing existing homeowners who want to move up or down to another home to receive a tax credit in the sum of $6,500.00, so long as they have owned and lived in their previous home for five consecutive years out of the last eight years.

Whether you are looking for Miami Beach real estate, South Beach real estate, Sunny Isles Beach real estate, Bal Harbour real estate or Golden Beach real estate, you should take advantage of these great tax credits, the current low interest rates and affordable prices these communities have to offer.  Those of who have been sitting patiently on the sideline waiting, you no longer have any reasons to delay the purchase of your Miami Beach and surrounding area luxury condos and homes.
Here are some highlights of the new tax credit law:

First Time Home Buyer Credit

• First time home buyers who purchase a home on or after January 1, 2009 and before April 30, 2010, are eligible to receive an $8,000 tax credit. If your purchase and sales contract is signed on April 30, 2010, and you complete your transaction by June 30, 2010, you will qualify for the credit.

• The IRS definition of first-time home buyer is a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during a three year period prior to their purchase.

• The tax credit does not have to be repaid.

• The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.

• The tax credit applies only to homes priced at $800,000 or less that are primary residences. No investment properties or second homes qualify.

• For homes purchased on or after January 1, 2009 and on or before November 6, 2009, the income limits are $75,000 for single taxpayers and $150,000 for married couples filing jointly.

• For homes purchased after November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010, single taxpayers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000 qualify for the full tax credit.

Long-Time Residences/ Same Residences  (Move Up/ Down) Buyers

• Buyers must have owned and lived in their previous home for five consecutive years out of the last eight years.

• The tax credit does not have to be repaid.

• The tax credit is equal to 10 percent of the home’s purchase price up to a maximum of $6,500.

• The tax credit applies only to homes priced at $800,000 or less that are primary residences. No investment or second homes are eligible.

• The credit is available for homes purchased after November 6, 2009 and on or before April 30, 2010. If your purchase and sales contract is signed on April 30, 2010, and you complete your transaction by June 30, 2010, you also will qualify for the credit.

• Single taxpayers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000 qualify for the full tax credit.

In order to avoid fraud, the IRS will require a copy of the HUD-1 closing statement from all buyers.

Military Buyers

If a Military member is deployed outside of the United States for a minimum of 90 days between December 31, 2008 and May 1, 2010, the tax credit is extended on purchases to on or before April 30, 2011.  If a purchase and sale contract is signed on April 30, 2011, the transaction must close on or before June 30, 2011 in order to qualify for the tax credit.

The new law is expected to further boost and help strengthen our recovering real estate market because it is beneficial to buyers, sellers and the entire real estate industry.

Thank you Coldwell!

Let’s Go!

Wondering why the denizens of Miami Beach and the surrounding area look so healthy on the outside? It could be because they’re just as healthy, or maybe even healthier, on the inside.

The reason? Miami residents have perfected the fine art of chilling out.

A recent survey of major cities across America named Miami America’s Most Relaxed City. Which probably isn’t a surprise to anyone who has the good fortune to live here.

At the other end of the spectrum sits Chicago, which has earned the dubious distinction of being America’s Most Stressed City. Which makes sense to anyone who’s ever tried to dig their car out of a snowdrift in the middle of a Windy City winter.

How do Miami residents spend the winter? At the beach, of course!

But the citizens of our fair city don’t have to rely on nature alone to keep them in optimum mental health.
If they need a little help achieving the ultimate state of Nirvana, there are plenty of places in the Miami Beach area dedicated to getting them there, with yoga centers, Pilates classes and of course, spas dotting the landscape. They can chill out and watch the people go by at a beachside café, or sip a refreshing beverage (or two!) at a local bar. And for those who find their bliss through retail therapy, the shopping in our little corner of the world is unsurpassed.

Basically, life in the Miami Beach area is a lot like life on vacation. Except it doesn’t ever have to end. You don’t need to spend hours on a crowded flight back to reality. Because if you’re lucky enough to live in Miami Beach, this IS your reality – 365 days a year!

No wonder more than two thousand people all over the world trade life in their their stressful cities for a piece of Sunny Isles Real Estate — or some other spot in the Miami area — every single day.

They know investing in luxury condos and homes and other forms of Miami Beach real estate is more than just buying a place to live.

It’s an investment in their well-being.

Miami Beach Green Real Estate

California and the west coast are not the only green conscious areas. Miami Beach and surrounding area homeowners are just as energy conscious. They recycle, conserve water and energy.  Here are some energy tips that can help you make your home more green:

• Save up to a third of your energy bill by purchasing EnergyStar Appliances.
• Insulate the attic and walls to prevent heat from coming in, thus making a huge difference on your power bill.

• Install programmable thermostats which automatically adjust your home’s temperature whether you are home or away. Keep your thermostat at 78 degrees.  Clean and maintain your air filters every 90 days. It can increase air conditioner efficiency by 5 to 15 percent.  Here in South Florida you don’t need to worry to worry about your heating bills like the people in the Northeast or Midwest.
• Install ceiling fans and cut down on your air conditioning use. In the Florida winter months, you can get by with using your ceiling fans and keeping your windows open so you can enjoy the fresh air.
• Use green cleaning products. Look for cleaners in large containers or bulk packages, and buy concentrates, which use less water. Look for products packaged in post-consumer recycled plastic or cardboard.
• Heat your pool with a solar cover or blanket. Use natural alternatives to pool cleaning chemicals as well.
• Use light paint colors outside. They will keep your home cooler inside. Look for low or no VOC paint. VOCs create ground-level ozone pollution and carry potential health risks
• Recycle your grass by leaving clippings on the lawn when mowing. The clipping recycle and you save water use and fertilizer and waste disposal removal costs as well.

• Use caulking and weather stripping to prevent your air conditioning from escaping and moisture from coming in your home. Moisture is a big problem here in South Florida causing mold and other problems.
• You can also save costs on your energy bill by doing your laundry and running your dishwasher on off peak hours between midnight and 6:00 a.m. Wash your clothes with cold water. Clean the lint filter in the dryer after each use.
• Cut down on your water consumption with low flow toilets and showerheads and recirculation systems in your hot water heaters.  Turn the water off when you are brushing your teeth.  You will save at least two gallons of water.
• Repair any plumbing leaks immediately.
• Install a drinking water filter under your kitchen sink. This way you don’t have to buy bottled water, and you can save the environment by cutting down the use of plastics.
• You would be surprised on how much of a savings installing insulated and impact resistant windows can make.  Insulated windows help with noise as well.
• Install compact fluorescent light bulbs. They produce less heat and are more efficient.

• Plant leafy trees on the south and west side of your home to add shade.
• Use an electric lawn mower instead of gas.

Visitors and area residents appreciate the beautiful eco friendly environment that Miami Beach real estate, Sunny Isles Beach real estate, South Beach real estate and Bal Harbour real estate each have to offer. With miles and miles of expansive beachfront property consisting of luxury condos and homes, Miami Beach and the surrounding area residents are conscious of preserving its extraordinary habitats and surroundings while enjoying the South Florida lifestyle.

Let’s go “green” Miami!

It used to be that Beverly Hills was the place to go to for the best in celebrity spotting. But today, there are probably as many people selling “Maps to the Stars Homes” in Miami Beach than there are on America’s other coast. The reason? Miami Beach real estate is hot, hot, hot, with the entire Miami area ranking as a top destination for celebs to vacation, winter and even live year round.

So who might you bump into while waiting in line at the local Whole Foods? Well, as you might expect, Miami Sound Machine founder Gloria Estefan and husband Emilio are longtime denizens of the region, making their home on the appropriately named Star Island. Miami Heat basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal is their neighbor, as is comedienne and former talk show queen Rosie O’Donnell. Sean Combs, also known as Puff Daddy, P. Diddy, Diddy and more, also lives here, while hot couple Jay-Z and Beyonce own a property nearby.

Miami Beach is home to singer Ricky Martin, while Lenny Kravitz lived on Sunset Island. Exclusive Fisher Island is home to tennis king Boris Becker and Queen of All Media Oprah Winfrey — who lives there part time in one of the island’s many luxury condos and homes.

If movie stars are more your thing, keep your eyes peeled for Matt Damon and Will Smith, both of whom have purchased properties in the area. Jennifer Lopez and husband Marc Antony live in sizzling South Beach, while father and son musical duo Julio and Enrique Iglesias both call the Miami Beach region home. As does Enrique’s gorgeous girlfriend, Russian tennis star turned model Anna Kournikova. And the list keeps growing, with more celebs snapping up more waterfront and oceanfront condos and homes in this A-list destination.

So the next time you’re out running errands in the neighborhood, keep your eyes open. When you live in Miami, you never know who you’ll spot.

by Lisa Canfield

Mocha Shakes Miami

The mystery begins this year on November 7, 2009, at 6:00 p.m. with the Mocha Shakers Mystery event. This Mystery Dates charity fundraiser is organized by the MOCA Shakers, the museum’s young international patrons. The proceeds will benefit MOCA exhibitions of new and experimental artists.

Expect an evening of art, fabulous food and mystery guests. Festivities start with a party at Museo Vault, a state of the art storage facility located in Wynwood at 349 NW 29 Street, Miami, FL 33127. You can enjoy specialty Grey Goose Vodka cocktails, great music and terrific appetizers.

From there the party moves on to a post modern home in Coral Gables, a MiMO Morningside home,  and then to a beautiful South Beach condominium.  The mystery is what glamour surprise dinner guest will attend each dinner. Guests will learn which dinner they will attend as well, as the festivities move on from there.

Tickets for the event range from $125.00 – $1,000.00. For seating information contact address is http://www.mocanomi.org/mystery-dates/#, and the phone number is 305 893-6211. Chair Persons, Ivonne Ronderos and Erin Newberg.

Experience the Excitement and Beauty of Miami Beach and Surrounding Areas

This is just one of many exciting charity events, festivals and music events held in the Miami Beach and surrounding areas throughout the year. There is also the Miami Beach Dance Festival held in April each year, the Jazz Roots Larry Rosen concert series, and don’t forget the Festival of Miami music festival, which is the opening of Miami’s Art Season.  The festival closes this year on October 30, 2009 at 8:00 p.m at the  Gusman Concert Hall at the University. of Miami Frost School of Music with the “Open Me First” with Jeff Hamilton and John Clayton concert series.

That’s why so many buyers choose to live, work and play here.  International buyers and celebrities recognize that  Miami Beach real estate, South Beach real estate, Bal Harbour real estate, Sunny Isles Beach real estate and Golden Beach real estate is some of the most gorgeous and affordable real estate found anywhere in the world. With luxury condos and homes at today’s affordable prices, there are no better bargains than here.

If you are looking for an international flair with great cuisine, shopping and beaches and a luxurious and exciting Florida lifestyle, you won’t be disappointed by the many area attractions, outstanding architecture and beautiful eco surroundings of the Miami Beach, South Beach, Bal Harbour, Sunny Isles Beach and Golden Beach areas.

Miami Beach Art Basel 2009

The popular four day Miami Beach contemporary Art Basel show will be held this year on December 3-9 at the Miami convention center. The festivities have grown into a week-long celebration and an international meeting place. You will find festival exhibitions, music, and film events sprawling from South Beach to the Miami Design Center. What better place to hold an international art festival than Miami Beach with its perfect climate, gorgeous beaches, art deco architecture, some of the best cuisine in the world, chic boutiques and so much more!

Since it debuted in 2002, Art Basel, the sister event of Switzerland’s Art Basel, has attracted art lovers and art curators and dealers from all over the world. It is the largest art festival in the country. This year, expect to find more than 250 international art galleries participating in the festival from North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Africa. The show ranks as the third largest show at the convention center, along with the car expo and the boat show. The 2009 event will feature 20^th and 21^st century artworks from more than 2,000 artists. Mark your calendars so you don’t miss this spectacular event!

Life Styles of the Rich and Famous at Affordable Prices

Miami Beach’s melting pot of nationalities attracts visitors not only to its many cultural and tourist attractions, but also to its resort style living featuring luxury waterfront/oceanfront condos and homes. With miles of gorgeous beaches, world class golf courses, international fine dining, fishing and diving, there is something for everyone. It is a favorite vacation, second home and retirement destination to millions of people worldwide. Miami Beach real estate and the surrounding South Beach real estate offer some of the most desirable real estate in the world. So if you are looking for a lifestyle of the rich and famous at today’s affordable prices, look no further. With its close proximity to Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe and Canada, you can see why Miami Beach attracts so many buyers to its luxury condos and homes.

Another reason why Miami Beach Real Estate is so sought after…

It’s more than just the opportunity to live next to endless white sand beaches, to warm, turquoise blue water and to beautiful scenery as far as the eye can see.

(And yes, by beautiful scenery I do mean unbelievably great-looking people wearing the smallest amount of clothing imaginable.)

It ‘s more than just for the most amazing nightlife, restaurants, club scene and people watching in the whole U S of A.

It‘s more than that. It’s for the CULTURE.

I’m serious. You can stop laughing now.

For those of you who think Miami Beach is all about seeing and being seen, that it’s a city just for the shallow and beautiful, I have reason to beg to differ.

That reason is Sleepless Night.

This November 7, the City of Miami Beach will celebrate what is being referred to as “the ultimate cultural all-nighter” – a free extravaganza of the arts lasting from six at night until seven the next morning. There’ll be a total of more than 130 events and 80 different destinations in indoor and outdoor locations across the city.

You can expect to see all kinds of art designed especially to be seen at night – which is bound to be incredibly cool – including animation, digital drawings, interactive films and more amazing and bizarre stuff you can’t hang on your living room wall. There’ll be more traditional art at indoor locations – maybe even some stuff you CAN hang on your living room wall. Plus music, poetry, comedy, acrobatics and a range of live performances you’ll basically have to see to believe.

Sleepless Night is sure to be the kind of wild, all-night party only Miami Beach can throw, but it’s not about drinking, or dancing, or decadence of any kind. Instead, it’s a celebration all about culture with a capital “C.”

Just one more reason Miami Beach Real Estate remains too hot to cool down!

by Lisa Canfield

Canyon Ranch Miami Beach has opened its doors to the long awaited North tower (6899 Collins Avenue) within this distinguished development. I’ve added some of today’s photographs for you to see the beauty in it…

Here’s the amazing SW View from the 22nd floor. Notice the historic Carillon hotel sign maintained with the Canyon Ranch project. Just below the Downtown skyline is La Gorce Island then the new NoBe on the Bay condos (which seems to have come to a standstill), Aquasol and the King Cole far off to the right.

The Canyon Ranch North tower pool was inviting with a large jacuzzi and beach access & services. There’s far less setback from the other tower and hotel. All amenities are included throughout this health conscience complex

The hallways were bright, elegant and spacious..

A slick uber modern Canyon Ranch kitchen with Miele & Sub Zero appliances

The lobby was classy and well done with beach accents including shell chandeliers along with modern bamboo style columns and a waterfall

The front entryway had valet with a great big smile and an immediate attention at the front from concierge. An Excellence in service..

Welcome home to Canyon Ranch Living Miami Beach. This great new development plus the addition of MEi Condos add a new dimension to this Miami Beach real estate market. To preview all Canyon Ranch condos for sale click here or Rent for details on updates & availability call me at 1.888.383.7326.

Fontainebleau II located at 4441 Collins Avenue, has a trophy Penthouse worth making it to the top of the luxury list of all time best properties on Miami Beach. Showcasing unobstructed Northern views of Miami Beach, this 4,500 interior square feet (4 bedrooms and 5 baths) luxury Miami penthouse is for sale today at $13.5M and was just recently reduced in February09 from $16M (16% reduction) coming with 5 parking spaces for your collection or guests. Maintenance fees are approximately $1 per square foot and covers everything including valet, high speed internet services, cable, phone, electric plus the owner’s lounge with daily breakfast and afternoon hors d’oeurves!

The Northern penthouse property was purchased new in 2005 for $3.6M and was completely renovated throughout for a turn key residence dominating the entire northern half of Fontainebleau II (Tresor) with high ceilings, an open floor plan plus windows and light throughout… Fit for a successful superstar looking for an amazing Miami Beach Penthouse residence.

Truly a celebrities trophy penthouse with an amazing skyline span over the blue skys of Miami Beach real estate. The terraces add an additional 2,500 square feet of outdoor living and entertainment area with complete Penthouse privacy. The Fontainebleau hotel & Spa services are are around the clock and essential with easy & private access to the 40,000 square foot spa, excellent restaurants, a nightclub, fitness center, tennis courts, multiple pools, waterfalls, children’s play room, owners lounge area all wrapped into the 22 acres of famous resort amenities including the enjoyment of the recent billion dollar renovation. Rent it with ease while away…

Fontainebleau II aka Tresor Building, was built in 2005 and consists of 37 stories and made up of 460 condo hotel units. Today, there are 57 units for sale or 12%as resales with 8 closed MLS sales in the last 6 months ranging from $315,000 to $700,000 for the average studio suites (520 SqFt) and 1 bedrooms (1,000 SqFt). Last year there were 14 sales with 12 in 2007 selling on an average price per square foot of $714 at 91% of list price.

Fontainebleau II Penthouse Views

Buyer’s, ready for a luxury Miami Beach Penthouse? This isn’t my exclusive listing but I’d love to represent you on the purchase. Call or email for the very best properties along Sunny Isles Beach, Bal Harbour & South Beach. If you’d like to receive local Miami Beach FL real estate news via blog postings & updates, you can easily be notified by RSS feed (see upper right column) or by email above each time a new posting occurs. Visit JADECondosSunnyIsles.com website & Blog relaying all new information for JADE Beach & JADE Ocean! Have a great week and call any time toll free 1.888.383.7326 or view new condos here. South Beach to Sunny Isles Real Estate Sales & Marketing at MiamiDreamRealty.com.

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Let us know what you think?!?! South Beach to Sunny Isles Real Estate Consultant, Micro Economist. If you’re thinking of placing your luxury condo residence on the market, contact me for a marketing overview and pricing band analysis to determine the proper selling price and get started with marketing. If you’d like to receive the latest local real estate news via blog postings & updates, you can easily be notified by RSS feed (see upper left column) or by email above every time a new posting occurs. The new JADE Condos Sunny Isles.com is now available! Have a great week and call any time toll free 1.888.383.7326 or view new Miami Beach condos here.

Sunny Isles Beach Lifeguard

I just closed on an Ocean Drive condo listing within (a new record) 2 weeks from start to finish. The buyer got a great deal and the seller had over $100k in equity so everyone was thrilled. I was also intrigued with the speed of sale and decided to write a short post on what it takes and so today’s conversation is centered on selling fast in the current Miami Beach real estate market. Is this possible you ask? Of course it is and here’s how…

1. Position the Miami Beach Condo in the Right Price Range.

When buyer’s search they have a specific price range in mind. If your Miami Beach Condo is priced at $1.1M you may have more traffic in the $999K price point or instead of $325K price it under the $300K mark where your buyer’ online search criteria begins.

2. Have the Adequate Knowledge and Information Available.

Whether it be knowledge of the area, building or Miami Beach condo it is crucial to have the answers to buyer’s many questions. A lack of information is a waste of valuable time when selling fast.

3. Put out Great Information.

From videos to fliers and professional photography, a buyer looks at the many marketing methods to many times fall in love site unseen or prior to previewing your Miami Beach home or condo. With the surpluss of International and out of state buyer’s it is imperative to have the best in video and photography to paint the properties features and location lifestyle expected along the Miami Beaches.

4. Market to Your Neighbors

Neighbors many times have friends and family looking in the same area or buildings along Miami Beach. The method of letting these valuable resources know that you are now selling is extremely powerful for finding a fast buyer.

5. First Offers Sometime Rule.

Don’t believe that holding out for a better offer is the right choice. The first offer has enthusiasm, energy and ense of urgency that the second offer may not have related to acquiring your Miami Beach home or condo. They typically know what they want and have had their eyes on the location or Miami Beach building for some time. Your monthly holding costs associated for waiting out a higher or better offer may ot make financial sense as each month costs you thousands. Negotiate well but make the first deal work and move on to the next goal in mind. Watch below as Ian Watt relays this well…

When timing is important and you’re ready to sell your Miami Beach Condo or Home fast, call or write me to discuss marketing and interview. If you’d like to receive the latest local real estate news via blog postings & updates, you can easily be notified by RSS feed (see upper left column) or by email above every time a new posting occurs. Have a great week and call any time toll free 1.888.383.7326 or view new condos here.

Real Estate FL Cramer