Category: News and Information

Orlando Home Builders Association Changes Name and Moves to a New Location

Posted on by Jenny Zamora

The Metro Orlando Home Builders Association wants to turn a new leaf and several changes are underway as part of its efforts to re-brand itself. The professional trade association that leads the Orlando real estate industry was established in 1953. Since then, it has governed and regulated several aspects of the city’s housing market including Orlando short sales, services of listing agents, and Orlando’s public-education programs to name a few.

The association revealed some of its re-branding initiatives on February 27, when it revealed plans to change the name from Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando to the Greater Orlando Business Association.

Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando moves to new headquarters

On the same day, the association also broke ground on what its new headquarters is going to be. The association is currently headquartered at 544 Mayo Avenue, Maitland but will ditch the 30-year-old venue and move to the new office in 1000 Sanford Avenue as soon as the construction work is done. The new headquarter will sit at the site donated by Charles Clayton III – the previous president of the Home Builders Association and also a long-standing member of the association. In addition to a changed name and a changed location, the association is also set to sport a more environment-friendly and greener office.

Word is, that the building at 1000 Sanford Avenue will file for a green certification with the regulatory bodies, including the Florida Green Building Coalition.

President Nathan Cross talks about right-sizing offices

Nathan Cross, President of the Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando said the association wants to right-size its offices so that the changing needs of staff, as well as the real-estate business, could be better matched. Moving to a new office was part of the right-sizing efforts.

Ensuring construction projects will create new jobs for construction workers. According to listing agents in Orlando, new opportunities for the local material suppliers. With new infrastructure development projects underway in Central Florida, including the SunRail passenger system, the real estate market of Orlando is expected to bring in worthwhile opportunities for architects and engineers.

The Home Builders Association has been an important part of the real-estate scene in Central Florida – participating in and regulating important industry events and initiatives through its councils and committees. How the re-branding is going to affect its reputation and standing in the market remains to be seen. https://orlandorealtyconsultants.com/

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Crescent Central Station Reviewed by City Council for Transportation Impact Fee Credits

Posted on by Jenny Zamora

The Orlando City Council met on February 24 to take another look at the high-end apartment complex in downtown Orlando that backs up the neighborhood’s busiest Sun Rail station. The transit-based multipurpose development seeks to win the transportation impact fee credits from the City Council. This would help site owners Rida Development Corp. save some big bucks.

Former site owner Rida to save over $2 million

Word is that Houston-based developers, Rida would save $275,839 if the Orlando City Council agrees to collect the fees in credits. Rida was the owner of the site at the corner of Livington Street and Orange Avenue where the apartment complex is now being constructed. Its ownership of the site dates back to 2008 when the site was known as the Pizzuti Block.

The main Lynx Central Station and Sun Rail commuter station of downtown Orlando is located in close proximity of the apartment complex.

According to the Orlando Sentinel, this Orlando real estate development will spread out over 6.4 acres of land and also sport a unique transit-based layout that allows residents, visitors and workers to walk through the Crescent Central Station apartment complex as they commute to and from the Sun Rail station.

What the $56 million complex is supposed to look like

Construction at the Crescent Central Station located in Orange Ave. at 480 N has been planned to be carried out in phases. The first phase of the project involves erecting a six-story high residential apartment complex with 279 apartments, an adjoining parking facility, and an open retail space spanning 12,000 square feet.

Apart from the luxury apartments and dedicated multilevel parking space that goes seven levels high, the apartment community will also sport a public park and pedestrians will be able to access the Sun Rail/Lynx station. Developers also plan to make the facility bicycle-friendly, in addition to facilitating pedestrians.

The 12,000 square feet of free space on the ground floor of the complex dedicated for retail will be owned and managed by Rida. Further, businesses that lease in or operate from the Crescent Central Station will be required to fund or at least subsidize the ridership of complex residents and employees, transiting through the station.

The initial phase of construction has been projected to cost around $56 million and real estate agents in Orlando have associated it with increased commercial and residential activities and leasing, not only in the complex itself but also in the neighborhood.

 

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Helpful Tips on Combating Pool Algae

Posted on by Jenny Zamora

Helpful Tips on Combating Pool Algae

Algae builds up quickly in a pool. There are several items to maintain in order to prevent algae buildup. The pH level in the pool is important. It is ideal to check this daily if possible. It is also ideal to have the proper pool supplies on hand to clean and maintain proper pool pH levels. Performing regular pool maintenance by testing the water pH levels, adding in balancing chemicals and performing regular cleanings helps to prevent algae growth. When algae first begin to form it is often unnoticed due to it being in such a small or concentrated area, as it grows the green hue is easy to see.

Check the pH Level Frequently

The pH levels of the water in a pool are very important. It can be difficult to maintain these levels, especially in areas of the world where it rains frequently. Rain water can quickly change these levels causing algae to begin to form. Within 24-hours if it raining, pool owners should test pH levels and incorporate chlorination chemicals to balance the water levels again. Algae will not grow where pH levels are balanced and the water/pool surfaces are clean.

This is a tedious process in some cases, but is well worth it. Testing pH levels only takes a couple of minutes to dip a test strip into the water and wait for it to process. Even if the level is slightly out of the safe zone, add a chemical treatment to the water. A full-strength dose is suggested no matter how little the pH level is off. Careful measurement of pool chemicals is also of the utmost importance. Adding too much will keep the levels off and too little will not fight algae growth.

Check the Chlorinator Monthly

The chlorinator is an important part of a pool system. It should be checked for functionality and cleaned once per month. Bi-monthly is better if time permits. The chlorinator helps to maintain a proper balance between pH, chemicals, chlorine and the natural properties of the water in a pool. If this is malfunctioning, it is difficult for chemicals to prevent algae growth on their own.

Clean Filters Weekly

Emptying pool filters weekly although cleaning filters three times per week is ideal. This improves the water flow through the pool and helps the filters to be strong enough to capture items floating in the water. This can include bugs, pine needles, strands of hair, strands of fabric and a variety of other materials. As these items collect in the filter, the strength of the suction decreases.

Monitor the Strength of the Returns

The return water flow system is important to check frequently. If the current seems to be a bit weak, it is ideal to turn the pumps off and perform a system cleaning. The returns help to filter water through systems to catch particles, hair and debris from the pool water. If these are blocked or not running efficiently, this can cause debris to remain in the water and algae can begin to form from an improper water pH balance.

Skim the Pool Surface Twice Per Week

Skimming a pool surface at least twice per week helps to clear any large pieces of debris, leaves and other particles from the water. It helps maintain the filtering systems as well. Filters can only hold so much hair, leaves and debris. Some say that skimming the pool daily is the best idea. At the very minimum, it should be completed no less than twice per week. Items left on the surface, or near surface of the water can cause algae to begin to form.

Some of the liners and surfaces available for swimming pools can help to mask the sight of algae with the use of creative patterns and colors.The ideal way to prevent algae growth is to test pH levels and perform regular maintenance. Some homeowners prefer to use a pool service for maintenance. It is beneficial to learn how to maintain a swimming pool but it is also a good idea to consult service for advice and proper cleaning and algae prevention tips. It might be worth your time to consult with your Orlando Realtor. It is also suggested that you have a deck scrubber on hand to scrub the sides of a pool and vacuum it out once per week to help combat algae.

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How To Find A New Property Manager For Your Residential Tower

Posted on by Jenny Zamora

Whether you are a developer, investor or resident, selecting the right building manager to manage your building is vitally important. Any residential tower or complex can flounder under the wrong management and it takes a special firm to turn a failing property into a successful one. If you are looking for ways to improve your existing situation and are looking for a new property manager, this article is for you. We have created a list of five key points that should make your task easier.

Tip #1. Look At Their Portfolio
If a property management company claims to have a dedicated team of experienced building managers, ask to see their portfolio. Their list of clients should include properties similar to yours in terms of size and amenities. You should begin your search for a new property manager by selecting several firms with experience of managing buildings similar to yours.

Tip #2. Can They Take Over At Short Notice?

Are you looking to end your relationship with your current property manager because you are dissatisfied with the level of service? If so, you need to find a firm of building managers that are able to take over at short notice to minimize disruption. When you contact firms, ask what experience their staff have in terms of taking over management of buildings at short notice. Firms that have experienced managers capable of handling the switchover period efficiently will stand you in good stead.

Tip #3. Negotiate The Fees
One reason that choosing a new property manager is so hard is that the level of fees charged can vary so substantially. Regardless of the stated fees, all fees are fully negotiable and there is no such thing as a ‘standard’ building management contract. All aspects of the agreement can be negotiated point by point. Once you have looked at a firm’s portfolio and checked the experience of their managers, you will have a clear idea of whether they can successfully reduce your workload and stress. Negotiate hard for a good deal.

Tip #4. How Do They Advertise Vacancies?
Not all commercial property management firms advertise vacancies in the same way. Vacant units in your residential tower will negatively affect the standards of the building as a whole. You need to establish that the firm you choose will aggressively advertise vacant units. To do this you could ask about their record of accomplishment in keeping occupancy rates high in the buildings they currently manage. Try to establish their success in advertising units in the properties currently under their management.

Tip #5. How Do They Screen Tenants?
The tenant screening process is one of the most important factors. Poor screening could well be one reason you are looking to ditch your existing property firm. When you contact new property managers, ensure that their screening process sounds tough. Make sure you ask potential management firms how they screen tenants and ask for examples of their strategies.

Conclusion
As one property management company based in Perth points out, it pays to shop around and compare the fine print on contracts before you make a final decision. Finding the correct level of care and attention to detail is the best way to ensure that your residential property is successful in the long term.

Leslie Kramer, the author of this post, is a freelance blogger. Leslie is a big-time movie buff and likes to play lawn tennis in her free time.

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Open House – 5 Things to Look for Before Making an Offer on a House

Posted on by Jenny Zamora

House hunting can be a stressful process, however, it is exciting to attend open houses and walk around a potential home to see if you are interested. Many buyers get distracted by features that they like in a home that they often don’t notice pitfalls or downsides to the home. Buying a house is one of the most important and expensive purchases you will ever make in a lifetime so it is extremely important that you pay close attention during an open house and look for specific features that could cause problems for you in the future.

Neighborhood Location

The location of a home is a vital component of making a decision concerning this expensive purchase. It is important to understand the local neighborhood before choosing a home. Things to look at include proximity to schools and stores. Walking around a neighborhood is often the best way to learn about the area and get a feel for what the neighbors are like. If you have small children, you should look carefully at the quality of schools as well as crime rates in the area. Crime rates should have a big effect on your decision to move somewhere. Living alone or raising children in an unsafe area isn’t desirable, and if you ever want to sell the house, it could lower the value.

Plumbing Condition

Obviously having running water in your home is no small thing, so it’s important to inquire about the condition of the plumbing in the home as you walk through it. You may have taken the plumbing in an apartment for granted because pipes, hoses, and water heaters are often hidden inside walls or utility rooms. However, if you buy a home with worn and rusted plumbing, the repair costs are expensive. IF a home has a history of severe plumbing problems, chances are you too will encounter problems with clogging, flooding, and other issues that are unpleasant. You want to ask about the plumbing beforehand so that you make sure you aren’t in for years of frustration and expensive repairs.

Vermin Inspection

Homeowners and real estate agents will make sure a house looks perfect during an open house but there might be surprises lurking inside the walls or attics. Learn how to inspect for vermin including rodents or insects that will make living in a home difficult. According to professionals who provide pest control services, things that indicate vermin include droppings, odors, or strange noises. Look for these things as you are walking around, even when inspecting the interior of the home. It is appropriate to ask the owners or real estate agents if they have ever had trouble with pests in the home, just to be sure. Even if they just get occasional ants in the summertime, it is important to know what you are getting yourself into.

Proper Roofing

Chances are that a real estate agent will not take you up a ladder to view the condition of a home’s roof during an open house. However, before making an offer on a new or older home, you must inspect the roof to make sure it does not leak when it rains or snows. You should do a thorough inspection of the exterior of the home, which is a good time to look at the roof. Look for missing or out-of-place shingles, and keep an eye out for crumbly chimneys—those are expensive to replace. Like with everything else, don’t be bashful about asking about the roof to see if they have ever had problems with it. You can see when the last time they replaced it was which will give you an idea of how many years it will be until you need to pay to have it replaced.

Landscaping

Having attractive landscaping around a home makes it more enjoyable for families, however, it can also mean a lot of work. It is important to walk outside the house looking at the shrubbery, trees, and flowers to see the plant life’s condition. If you aren’t into gardening, you could be in trouble if you purchase a house that requires a lot of upkeep. The previous owners might have planted a lot of plants or even vegetables, and if you don’t plan on maintaining an elaborate landscape, it will take a lot of work to clear the yard of everything they have planted, or you might have to hire a lawn crew to maintain the look for you. For some families, maintaining a large and elaborate yard isn’t a big deal, however, if you are not used to that, it could create a lot of extra work for you.

Before going to open houses to view homes, make a list of the things to inspect inside and outside the building. In addition, prospective buyers should make multiple visits to a home on different days and times to really understand the true condition of the home. Parents may want to have their children see the home before making an offer, which is another reason why multiple visits can be a good idea. Don’t make an offer after only one visit, and make sure you ask smart questions to get as much information about the house as possible. Don’t be shy about asking about the history of the home—you need to gather all the information possible in order to make an informed decision before making an offer.

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