coconut point press september november 2010 "pricing is still the key to getting it sold!"

September | October | 2010 | 1

FEATURED PROPERTIES

6297. Gorgeous 2nd floor Condo located Palmetto Ridge with private neighborhood pool/clubhouse in the exclusive community of Shadow Wood at the Brooks. Offering 2 bedroom+den, 2 bath, attached garage, 2040 under air,2541total sf. Beautifully decorated in a neutral Tommy Bahama décor. Numerous upgrades, with tile on diagonal, tray ceilings with crown molding, decorative light fixtures and ceiling fans. Spacious den which easily can be used as a third bedroom. The comfortable tiled lanai offers lush golf course, tropical landscaped and partial lake views. This pristine condo is on of the finest you will find in Shadow Wood, offered at a fantastic price of $334,900. Call Michael 239 498-7600.

4141. Beautiful spacious great room floor plan, perfect for entertaining with 3 bed+den, 3 bath, 3-car garage, 2655 sf under air, 3700 total sf. Dramatic high ceilings, archways, niches, tile in main living areas, window blinds. Spacious Kitchen with 42” cabinets, decorative tile backsplash, breakfast nook. Grand great room with wall-wall sliders leading out to the paver lanai, built-in pool/spa, flower bed, with beautiful tropical landscaping and golf course views beyond. Large master bedroom with two closets, French door entry to the lanai, private bath with dual sinks and large tile walk-in shower. Two bedrooms at opposite end of the home, ideal for your guest’s privacy with one offering a large private bath. Offered at $499,000. Call Michael 239 498-7600.

Grandezza, Estero

November | December | 2009 | 1

D. Michael Burke, p.a.Estero /Bonita Springs/Naples

Luxury Real Estate Expert

ESTERO | BONITA SPRINGS | NAPLES

.com

SeptemBeR | OctOBeR 2010

To have Your Home Featured In the Next Issue Call D. Michael Burke, P.A. 239.498.7600

Web site owned and maintained by michael Burke of Keller Williams elite Realty, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

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Pricing is STILL the Key to Getting it SOLD! We’ve been getting a lot of good news about the real estate market lately. projections for the year turned out to be true: Sales increased dramatically during the first two quarters of 2010, fueled by the first time homebuyer tax credit. In July, after the tax credit ended, sales dropped – but we expected that. Inventory is now down to less than a year’s supply, so we’ve still come out ahead. my point is, we have been getting a lot of good news lately. It is important, however, not to let it go to our heads. Just because we have seen a strong increase in sales for at least the last year, doesn’t mean we can forget everything we’ve learned in the last few years. competitive pricing still trumps everything else. Yes, we have seen small but significant increases in prices in the last year. But don’t forget, the competitively priced homes that have been driving all of the

improvements we have seen in the market. Just like with the tax credit, competitive prices draw out potential buyers by promising them a good deal that won’t wait. the tax credit had a deadline; likewise, as the market improves prices are bound to go up, so if buyers snooze, they lose. even more importantly, we may be looking at another wave of foreclosures in the near future, if action isn’t taken to head them off. In June, the Florida Bar Journal ran an article discussing the local mortgage foreclosure crisis. According to the article, a second wave of foreclosures is expected as homeowners in trouble with their adjustable rate mortgages default and lose their homes. Another, smaller group of homeowners may even intentionally default on their mortgages, in order to get out from under homes that are no longer worth as much as they owe on them. Other experts have

also noted that there are a lot of real estate owned properties that the lenders have just not listed on the market yet, indicating that the delayed sale of these homes could also prolong the impact that foreclosures have had on our housing market. the Florida Bar and other experts have been discussing solutions to prevent these foreclosures from hitting the market all at once, such as measures that lenders can take to help homeowners stay in their homes. there are some very good

ideas circulating, and hopefully some of these will be implemented. However, the threat of these additional foreclosures highlights the ongoing need for competitive pricing. I recently talked to an appraiser I know about how the high number of foreclosures are impacting market values. Obviously, a lot of foreclosures drive prices down, forcing even those sales that are not distressed to lower their prices accordingly. the fact of the matter is, besides driving down the closing values that are used in an appraisal, a high number of foreclosures bring out buyers who are looking for good deals. Despite the small increase in prices recently, the same holds true as 12 months ago: competitively priced homes get the most showings and sell the fastest. In order to determine a competitive price for your home, it is important to have your real estate agent

perform a comparative market analysis (cmA). this is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal, as it analyzes all of the closing prices for comparable homes to yours during the last six months – including foreclosures. With this data, you and your agent can come up with a fair asking price that walks the fine line between too much and too little. As a selling agent specializing in the neighborhoods of Lee and collier counties, I have watched the pricing trends of the last few years, and I know what to expect. experience and specialization in a neighborhood is invaluable when added to important tools such as the cmA. please feel free to call me for more information on pricing your home competitively. In today’s market, there is no reason why your home shouldn’t sell – if it’s priced right!

Shadow Wood at the Brooks

2 | September | October | 2010

and molds, so be sure to clean your house with an eye for these allergens.

Four out of •five people in the United States are exposed to house dust mites, and three out of five are exposed to cat or dog dander, so it is very important for those with nasal allergies to be sure they are properly managing their symptoms and correctly cleaning their house.

Nasal allergy sufferers don’t have to settle if they are not •getting symptom relief. Visit your physician to review your current indoor and outdoor allergy management routine.

Log on to www.cleanSweep contest.com, sponsored by sanofi-aventis U.S., to learn more helpful allergy tips from Jeff may and enter to win one of his books.

McClain Home Inspection, & Home Watch service

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executive editorD. Michael Burke, P.A.

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Market report editorJustin Jordan

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Tips To Help Sweep Away Hidden Allergens (NApS)—If you are one of the 66 million Americans affected by nasal allergies, you may want to learn more about how to locate those lurking allergens in your home. “On average, Americans spend nearly 22 hours each day indoors without realizing that indoor air can be more seriously polluted than outdoor air, including allergens [animal dander, mold, house dust mites], making it important to know the most common places for allergens to hide,” said certified indoor air quality professional and “Allergen Xterminator” Jeff May. the clean Sweep campaign at www.cleanSweepcontest.com, sponsored by sanofi-aventis U.S., pinpoints the areas where allergens often lurk and provides you with the opportunity to submit personal testimonials on how nasal allergies affect your life. top testimonials in the spring and fall will win a signed copy of one of Jeff may’s books that feature more helpful cleaning tips. Select winners will also have the opportunity to be featured on www.cleanSweepcontest.com! Here are a few of may’s tips:

Around the house: Use a damp or electrostatic cloth •

when dusting to avoid flinging dust into the air. In the bedroom: to kill dust mites, wash your sheets and •

blankets using hot water (at least 130° F) and put bulky quilts in the dryer on low heat once a week.

In the bathroom: clean or replace moldy shower curtains •and bath mats.

In the kitchen: Scrub often to remove food and mold •from the sink and keep the area around the faucet dry.

Outside the house: Keep windows closed while mowing •to prevent allergens from entering your home.

After cleaning: take a shower, wash your hair, change •your clothes and leave your house for a bit, because some airborne allergens can be floating around for 30 minutes before settling.

Dr. michael Blaiss, clinical professor of pediatrics and medicine at the University of tennessee Health Science center and past president of the American college of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AcAAI), said, “Allergic rhinitis—or nasal allergies—is one of the most common chronic diseases in this country, but too often people tolerate their symptoms when they could be taking steps to better manage them. through the clean Sweep campaign, we are encouraging proper disease management by minimizing exposure to allergens and recognizing the importance of speaking with your doctor. With proper diagnosis and the right treatment, nasal allergy sufferers can begin to better manage their symptoms throughout the spring nasal allergy season.” Dr. Blaiss advises:

About 66 million Americans suffer from allergy •symptoms caused by indoor allergens, such as house dust mite droppings, animal dander, cockroach droppings

For the most part there is a desire in nearly everyone to want to get ahead in life. Getting ahead largely depends on the decisions that one does and doesn’t make. The average person makes hundreds and even thousands of decision daily. Therefore making the right decisions is critical to being successful. The ability to make good decisions is called wisdom. Often decisions are made based on data and gut instincts. I don’t know about you, but there have been plenty of decisions that I made from a gut feeling that turned out to be completely wrong because it was simply that, a feeling. Ultimately, success comes down to making wise decisions at the right time. So where do we get wisdom? Simple. The Bible

Living Waters Community Church, 27911 Vermont Street, Bonita Springs, FL 34135

www.livingwaterscc.com

By Pastor Ed Ivie, Lead Pastor, Living Waters Community Church

Living Waters Loves ... Wisdom

Get Wise, Get Ahead!tells us in Proverbs 9:10, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Fear in this context means reverence. Wisdom comes from God. He (God) has given you the ability to make wise decisions. You just have to ask him. The book of James in the New Testament tells us that if we lack wisdom we can ask God and that He gives it generously. The key in asking however is that we have faith and do not doubt. Maybe you have a critical decision that you need make. Ask God for wisdom. Allow God to direct and lead you. How does He do that? God has spoken to every area of our lives through the Bible (The Word of God). Open it up and find out for yourself. Listen as you read and you will hear a still small voice internally guiding you to all

wisdom and truth. Do you really want to get ahead in life? Get Wise. Discover God.


cook|koŏk |Chocolate Eclairs

verb1 [trans.] prepare (food, a dish, or a meal) by combining and heating the ingredients in various ways. Shall I cook dinner tonight?

Ingredients1 cup water,1/2 cup butter,1/4 teaspoon salt,1 cup flour,4 fresh eggs,2 cups whole milk,1 package instant vanilla custard

mix,1 square semi-sweet baker’s

chocolate, melted.

Method Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In medium saucepan bring 1 cup water to a boil, stir in 1/2 cup butter and salt. Stir until melted. Add flour all at once and stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat and beat in eggs, one at a time, until smooth. Drop by tablespoons onto greased baking sheet. Bake until the shells are golden and cool them completely before piping in the pudding, prepared from the vanilla pudding mix and milk. Sprinkle with the melted chocolate over the ready eclairs or just spread it with a spoon. Garnish the Custard Filled Eclairs according to your taste.

Stuffed Chicken Breast

Ingredients 4 chicken breasts supreme (with the skin

and drumsticks)4 slices of prosciutto San Danielle3 oz. roasted red peppers3 oz. spinach2.5 oz. cream cheese1 pinch chicken base1 tablespoon diced shallots1 tablespoon buttersalt and pepper to tasteFor the mushroom sauce: 4 oz. sliced button mushrooms2 oz. dry white wine3 oz. cream.

Method Saute the shallots in the butter, add the spinach, the diced peppers, salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Add the chicken base and the cream cheese. Mix to combine all the ingredients and remove from the heat. Divide the stuffing over the 4 prosciutto slices and roll them. Make large, long slits in the thickest part of the breasts and push the stuffing inside. Grease a heavy skillet and sear the chicken breasts on both sides over high heat. Place the skillet in the oven and roast until the staffed chicken reaches 165 F internal temperature. When ready, remove the stuffed chicken breasts from the skillet and put the sliced mushrooms. Saute for 2 minutes and deglaze with the white wine. Add the cream, salt and pepper to taste and reduce the sauce to the desired consistency. Pour the sauce over the ready stuffed chicken breasts and serve.

Ingredients 20 large scallops, (about 1 lb.), 20 strips of smoked bacon,1 tsp. lemon-pepper seasoning,1/4 tsp. salt,1 Tbsp. vegetable oil,1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper,20 toothpicks,(optional - 1 oz. maple syrup)

Method Arrange the strips of bacon over parchment paper on a baking sheet and bake them until half-cooked. Take out the bacon and let it cool down. Put the scallops in a bowl and season them with the lemon-pepper, salt and black pepper. Add the oil and mix well. Wrap one bacon strip around each scallop and secure with a toothpick. Arrange the bacon wrapped scallops over parchment paper on a baking sheet and bake then in a preheated oven at high temperature for about 10 minutes or until the bacon is fully cooked. Make sure you do not cook the bacon wrapped scallops for too long, otherwise they will shrink and become a little tough.

Bacon Wrapped Scallops

Living Waters Loves ... Wisdom


Sharing ... Design “Tips of the Trade”with Georgina Ryan ... Local Interior Design Expert Ryan Design Group has the Interior Decorating and Design skills necessary to assist you in creating the Image and Lifestyle you have always wanted. This Design Group led by Georgina Ryan, President and Lead Designer who is servicing clients from Naples and the Keys to Boston and Cape Cod. She is a member of the Interior Design Society and has over 28 years of industry experience in Interior Design and has an extensive background in project management. She is highly accomplished in the arts and design field having received local and national recognition with numerous awards and featured publications. Ryan Design Group has a business model focused towards the discerning tastes of the sophisticated client who is looking for top quality service and outstanding design abilities. Georgina attributes the continued success of Ryan Design Group to the consistency of service and attention that she and her design staff give to each individual client. Georgina would love to hear from you! [email protected] ; Office 239-992-5800 or visit her website at www.RyanDesign.Net

How to Pair Colors Like a Pro Combining colors is often a challenge for homeowners. Which color goes nicely with brown? How do you add color to a blue room? The following tips will give you confidence to add the right hues to your home.Know The Three Basic Color Schemes • Monochromatic- colors with the same hue butdifferent values (brown and taupe; two shades of blue) •Analogous-colorsthatarenexttoeachotheronthe color wheel and thus similar (green and yellow, red and purple). Rooms can use three analogous colors for more excitement, like green, yellow, and orange.

A subtler, more sophisticated analogous combination would be yellow-green, yellow, and orange-yellow. • Complementary - color-wheel opposites.Complementary colors give the most contrast and are exciting to the eye (orange and blue; red and green)Take a Cue from Mother Mother Nature, that is! Colors that are found together in the great outdoors are also beautiful when combined in the home. Think of a light blue sky paired with silvery white clouds. Or a forest with its combination of greens mixed with tree bark brown. If it’s pleasing in nature, it’ll be sure to please you inside, as well.

Look to Your Closet Think about the color combinations you enjoy wearing. What accent colors do you add to your outfits? Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, says, “If you look and feel good with those colors on you’ll like them around you.” When adding new color to your home, remember to stay classic with your largest, most expensive pieces. That way, when you choose to make any changes, you just need to switch small accessories and other inexpensive items. Easy!

Doing Good Does You Good (NAPS)—Not only does volunteering help the communities you volunteer in, but the latest research shows that it could be good for your health. A recent survey by United- Healthcare and VolunteerMatch, a nonprofit organization that connects people with causes, found a connection between volunteerism and a healthier lifestyle. The survey found that 68 percent of volunteers felt physically healthier after volunteering, and 73 percent of volunteers agree that it lowered their stress levels. VolunteerMatch also partners with UnitedHealthcare

to encourage volunteering among employees. Nearly three-quarters of its employees volunteered last year. In addition, UnitedHealthcare launched “Do Good. Live Well.” an initiative designed to inspire service and volunteerism across the country. The survey shows that the rewards of volunteering include a healthier community, a healthier workforce and a healthier you. To find a place to volunteer, visit www.volunteermatch.org, or learn more about UnitedHealthcare’s volunteer programs at www.dogoodlivewell.org.

An Experience Corps volunteer with his English language learner students. (Photo: Faith Gong/VolunteerMatch)


Simply PuzzlingCrossword!

Puzzle Answers on page 15

Sharing ... Design “Tips of the Trade”

Where the Old World Meets the New World

Brewista Coffee House offers our customers only the finest Coffee ¾available using top quality beans from around the world.Our Teas are imported from England offering a richer and fuller ¾tasting tea. Try our Chai Teas, all natural Fruit Smoothies with no preservatives ¾or additives, Gourmet Cocoa, Incredible Pastries & Desserts and Gourmet Chocolates.We offer FREE WI-FI Service to our customers and for customers ¾joining us outside with their pets we offer free Pet Water bowls and doggy treats.We can cater your meetings for up to 30 guests in our establishment. ¾Please see Shellanne for details.We offer live entertainment on select weekend nights, please look ¾for postings of dates.Come join us. Relax and enjoy our Old World Style Atmosphere. ¾

Coffee Service•Gourmet Coffee•Pastry Platters•English Teas•Customer Appreciation Card•Gourmet Chocolates•Free WI-FI Service•Chai Teas•Free Pet Water Bowls•Cocoa•Live Entertainment•Smoothies•

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sudoku!

Across1. Impartial5. Primary10. Huge14. Skin condition15. Stadium16. Small island17. Roster18. Colossus19. Slender20. Brook22. Ends a prayer23. Payment for use24. Involve26. Evaluation28. Terrestrial gastropod31. Argument in favor32. Coop35. Object of worship37. Run off to marry41. Be indebted42. Exact44. Novel45. Part of a flower47. Rational48. This place49. Drinking vessel51. Term of a contract53. Mythical beast56. Male feline

60. Poke61. Narrate64. South American ungulate65. Assistant66. Chord with three notes68. Burden of responsibility69. Appear70. Call forth71. Price72. System of weights or ancient city73. Regenerate74. Hinge jointDown1. Travesty2. Fruit of the oak3. Cove4. Set free5. Flexible container6. Song for solo voice7. Crease8. Inside9. Short sleep10. Invective11. Livid12. Catapult13. Camping equipment21. Family25. Den27. Large woody plant29. Parts of the Roman calendar

30. Type of anesthetic32. Police officer33. Wonder or admiration34. Acquire36. Spoken by an actor38. Single unit39. For each40. Female sheep42. Stopper43. Chair46. School for special training48. Highly poisonous herb50. Harry the magician52. Ancient Roman sun god

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Happy HalloweenQ: Why did the Vampire subscribe to the Wall Street Journal?

A. He heard it had great circulation...


Local ColorConservancy Of Southwest Florida Nature Center Reopens Nov. 1

conservancy of Southwest Florida Nature center will reopen on Nov. 1 at 10:30 a.m.. New operating hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. monday through Saturday only. When the Nature center reopens on Nov. 1 at 10:30 a.m., the Discovery center and Wildlife Viewing area will remain closed as their renovations continue. However, guests will be able to enjoy a new series of regular daily programming on the new commons area deck and in the “Nature Zone,” a temporary, indoor “mini Discovery center” featuring live reptiles and a near-shore touch tank. the programming includes: • Hourly education programs offered on the deck 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. • The “Nature Zone,” which is a “mini” Discovery Center will open in the current “Resource Room;” touch tank talks will run every half hour from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and guests can do self-guided tours from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. • Guided Nature Walks available Monday through Friday at 1 p.m. • Animal encounters offered at a “sunning station” throughout the day, but times and animals will differ each day. • Electric boat cruises for guests run hourly: 12, 1, 2, and 3 p.m., monday through Friday. • On Saturday, electric boat rides will be available hourly beginning at 11 a.m., 12, 1, 2 and 3 p.m. • Kayak rentals. • The Conservancy Nature Center and the Nature Store will close at 4:30 p.m. • Monthly themes will change program offerings each month. • The Conservancy is introducing “Spectacular Saturdays”: special events and educational programming that include crafts, games, Gordon the Eagle, etc. and will be offered each Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., with a coloring station opened in between those times. • Admission is free for Conservancy members. Adults: $9; children 12 and under: $4. “We’re making great progress on the new Nature center,” said Andrew mcelwaine, president and ceO of the conservancy of Southwest Florida. “Once completed, sometime in 2012, guests will be able to enjoy one of the most complete experiences of the Southwest Florida environment and leave with the understanding of why it is so important to protect our water, land and wildlife.” mcelwaine added, “In the meantime, the conservancy environmental education team has put together a great plan for guests to enjoy themselves at the Nature center. the team is also working on many exceptional and unique outdoor environmental field trips and excursions.” the public is encouraged to check www.conservancy.org on a regular basis for updates on new conservancy programs and activities. the renovations continue as part of the conservancy of Southwest Florida “Saving Southwest Florida” capital campaign and will transform the 21-acre conservancy Nature center into a model for sustainable design and environmental responsibility. A new entrance will be available from Goodlette-Frank Road. The new Conservancy

Campus will include two new buildings: the Sugden Gomez environmental planning center and von Arx Wildlife clinic. three other buildings will undergo extensive renovations: Dalton Discovery center, eaton conservation Hall featuring the Jeannie meg Smith theater and the Ferguson Interactive Learning Lab. Other sustainable features include several new filter marshes designed to enhance Gordon River and Naples Bay water quality. Plans for the new Nature Center can be found at www.conservancy.org/campaign. construction is expected to be complete in early 2012. For those interested in being a part of the “Saving Southwest Florida” campaign, numerous naming opportunities at different levels are still available. For more information on naming opportunities, contact Rob moher, vice president of development and marketing for the conservancy of Southwest Florida at (239) 403-4205.About The Conservancy Of Southwest Florida: The Conservancy of Southwest Florida began in 1964 when

community leaders came together to defeat a proposed “Road to Nowhere” and spearheaded the acquisition and protection of Rookery Bay. The Conservancy is a grassroots organization focused on the critical environmental issues of the Southwest Florida region. Partnering with like-minded organizations, the Conservancy works to manage growth and protect area waters, land and wildlife. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida promotes sound environmental policies and practices based on solid scientific research while providing environmental education to residents and visitors. The Wildlife Clinic treats more than 2,400 injured, sick and orphaned animals each year and releases about half back into their native habitats. The Conservancy of Southwest Florida and Conservancy Nature Center are located in Naples, Fla., at 1450 Merrihue Drive, off Goodlette-Frank Road at 14th Avenue North. For information about the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, call (239) 262-0304 or visit www.conservancy.org.

Hands-on Touch Tank Talks and program run every half-hour in the Conservancy of Southwest Florida “mini” Nature Zone.

Baby alligators will be featured at the temporary Nature Zone at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, which opens Nov. 1

Native snakes will be on view at the “mini” Nature Zone at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida

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P = Pending / CS = Closed / = Short Sale / = Foreclosure

Seven or eight months ago, I wrote that I anticipated strong sales in the first half of 2010. This prediction was based in part on the first time homebuyer tax credit, which ended for good on June 30, 2010. I knew the incentive would encourage more people to buy in the first half of the year, which it did. My point is, although the tax credit is now over, the statistics for the second quarter of 2010 – and even for July – show that there have been lasting benefits for the housing market. The most important benefit is how dramatically inventory has decreased, and what it means for the coming months. At the end of June 2010, inventory in the Naples, Bonita, and Estero market areas had fallen 14 percent since the same time in 2009. Even more interesting, the largest decreases were not in the lowest price range, $250,000 and less, which is where most of the activity has been until recently. The $250,000 to $500,000 price range saw a dramatic decline in inventory – from 3,429 at the end of the second quarter in 2009, to 2,727 in 2010 – but the most astonishing drop was in the $2 million and up price range. In that category, inventory fell 25 percent between 2009 and 2010. The drop isn't just because of the increase in sales in the first half of the year, although that certainly did help. It is also partly to do with a significant drop in new listings. With 5,534 new listings in the second quarter of 2010, our new listings are at the lowest they've been since 2005, and almost 20 percent lower than they were in the second quarter of 2006, when the real estate crisis was at its worst. Sales also increased dramatically during the second quarter of 2010. There were 3,099 closed sales between April and June, a whopping increase of 20 percent over first quarter. That's also 18 percent more than second quarter of last year, when there was only 2,620 closed sales. July's sales did drop – 676 closed sales for the month, down 19 percent from July of last year – but we expected that would happen after the first time homebuyer tax credit ended. Because the tax credit expired at the end of June, it encouraged homebuyers to buy earlier in the year than they might have originally been planning, causing the sales figures to rebound a bit in July. Despite the drop in closed sales in July, year-to-date sales for 2010 are still 25 percent higher than they were last year. Furthermore, the other trends we have seen in the second quarter continue through July, indicating that the impact of the tax credit will last beyond its actual deadline. For instance, the increase in prices that we saw the first half of the year continued through July: The average sales price last month remained the same as in June, and increased nearly 10 percent over July 2009. Also, both new listings and current inventory for July 2010 are down 11 percent from this time last year. The statistics for second quarter brought good news, but it wasn't entirely unexpected – we knew, after all, that the tax credit would have an impact on the number of sales the first half of the year. What is especially encouraging is seeing the trends in inventory and price continue into

July, and realizing what this means for the coming months. With the inventory at its current levels, we have less than a one-year supply. As a result, the market is stabilizing, especially in the lowest price category: homes selling for $250,000 or less. Some areas are even seeing a shortage of available homes, which is leading to a modest increase in prices. After the high we experienced in the first and second quarters, we will likely see a noticeable slowdown in the next couple of months, but I think we are also seeing the long-term impact of the tax credit coming to fruition. As a real estate agent specializing in Lee and Collier Counties, I have seen market trends come and go, and I have a good feel for what is coming next. If you would like to talk to me in greater detail about what we expect to see in the third and fourth quarters, please feel free to give me a call. My door is always open! As Published in the News- Press August 14, 2010

4 | Special Market Report | September | October | 2010 Special Market Report | September | October | 2010 | 1

Visit www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com for Additional Information or Call D. Michael Burke, p.a. 239.498.7600 for More Information

[email protected] | 239-777-0473

Coconu tPo in tRea l E s t a t e . com

ESTERO | BONITA SPRINGS | NAPLESMARKET REPORT

If your property is currently listed with another Broker this is not a solicitation of that listing. The report and data is based on information from Multiple Listing Service of Bonita Springs-Estero, Inc. These properties were not all listed and sold by Keller Williams Elite Realty Inc. and were listed or sold by various MLS participating offices.

P = Pending

CS = Closed

= Short Sale = Foreclosure

Visit www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com for Additional Information

Declining Inventory, Rising Prices Bode Well for Southwest Florida

By D. Michael Burke

Stat Address Bed Bath Half Furn Pool Spa Exp View SqFt Built List PriceListSqFt Sold Date Sold Price Sold SqFt DOM %List

CS 12660 Grandezza Cir 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes N Lake 2076 2007 $350,000 $169 7/30/2010 $350,000 $169 321 100%CS 20191 Markward 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes E Preserve 2190 2006 $430,000 $196 7/30/2010 $390,000 $178 156 91%P 20093 Palermo Lake Ct 3 Bed 2 0 Negotiable Yes Yes E Lake 1649 2005 $350,000 $212 195P 19901 Markward 3+Den 4 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes S Preserve 3779 2005 $899,000 $238 570

CS 20071 Seagrove St, #1008 2 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished No No S Golf Course 1478 2004 $128,500 $87 8/19/2010 $128,500 $87 41 100%P 20151 Seagrove St, #201 2+Den 2 0 Partly Furn No No E Golf Course, Lake 1449 2001 $189,900 $131 134P 20071 Seagrove St S, #1003 2 Bed 2 0 Furnished No No E Golf Course 1490 2004 $199,000 $134 182CS 20281 Calice Ct, #2201 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished No No E Golf Course 1647 2002 $222,000 $135 7/30/2010 $187,500 $114 254 84%

Grandezza 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyGrandezza.com

Single Family Homes in Grandezza (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Condos in Grandezza (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Looking to buy in Grandezza? Now may by the best time to make your offer! Most homes have been on the market for at least a couple of months in Grandezza. The increase in price reductions shows sellers are realistic in selling. Grandezza is a solid community with consistent sales and will attract plenty of buyers come season. Make an offer now before the flood of buyers come for season while your negotiating power is strongest enabling you to enjoy your new home for this up coming winter.


P 4640 Via Cappello 4+Den 4 1 Furnished Yes Yes NW Lake 4060 2007 $1,349,000 $332 17CS 4720 Via Santa 3 Bed 3 1 Furnished No No NE Golf Course, Lake 2646 2000 $899,000 $340 7/15/2010 $825,000 $312 194 92%CS 23781 Tuscany Way 4+Den 5 1 Furnished Yes Yes W Lake, Preserve 5190 2008 $2,100,000 $405 8/27/2010 $1,850,000 $356 376 88%

P 23720 Merano Ct, #101 3 Bed 3 0 Negotiable No No SW Golf Course, Lake 2060 2003 $370,000 $180 106

P 24011 Via Castella Dr, #2301 3 Bed 3 1 Unfurnished No No W Preserve 2665 2006 $449,900 $169 107P 23540 Via Veneto Blvd, #502 3 Bed 2 1 Unfurnished No No W Bay, Golf Course, Lake 1910 2006 $325,000 $170 381CS 4875 Pelican Colony Blvd, #204 3 Bed 3 1 Turnkey No No SW Bay, Preserve 3295 2002 $649,000 $197 7/23/2010 $575,000 $175 219 89%CS 23650 Via Veneto Blvd, #404 3+Den 3 0 Furnished No No W Bay, Golf Course, Partial Gulf 2342 2001 $499,000 $213 7/30/2010 $400,000 $171 210 80%P 23540 Via Veneto Blvd, #2004 3 Bed 3 0 Unfurnished No No W Golf Course, Gulf 1910 2006 $489,000 $256 59CS 4875 Pelican Colony Blvd, #1504 3+Den 3 1 Negotiable No No W Bay, Partial Gulf 3295 2002 $969,000 $294 7/30/2010 $865,000 $263 228 89%

The Colony at the Brooks 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyThe Colony.com

Single Family Homes in The Colony (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Highrises and Midrises in The Colony (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Single Family Homes in The Colony (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

The Colony moves into the final two months of summer before traffic starts to pick up in mid October. While traffic is down it will pick up come winter time. During off‐season while traffic is slow, seller's are more likely to negotiate on price. The Colony does have a fair amount of distressed sales, however with luxurious amenities including the Bay Club and it's pristine golf, The Colony will generate plenty of traffic for the competitively priced homes.


CS 8573 Via Garibaldi Cir, #304 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished No No SE Lake 1342 2007 $156,900 $117 8/6/2010 $156,000 $116 63 99%CS 22300 Piazza Doria Ln, #207 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished No No W Canal 1342 2005 $165,000 $123 7/2/2010 $154,000 $115 57 93%CS 8575 Via Lungomare Cir, #203 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished No No S Lake, Preserve 2584 2006 $345,000 $134 8/30/2010 $310,000 $120 36 90%CS 22174 Ponte Romano Ln, #101 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished No No W Lake 1976 2007 $289,900 $147 7/6/2010 $285,000 $144 58 98%P 22165 Ponte Romano Ln, #101 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished Yes No E Lake 1976 2007 $299,900 $152 33CS 8567 Via Lungomare Cir, #103 3 Bed 2 0 Negotiable No No S Lake 2016 2006 $309,900 $154 8/31/2010 $270,000 $134 120 87%

Rapallo 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyRapallo.com

Single Family Homes in Rapallo (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Rapallo sales center has again made a large number of price reductions across the board some over $25k which could spark some activity. If you are trying to sell your home you must stay ahead of the sales center to have a chance to sell. In my opinion, there will be further reductions by the sales center so if your looking to sell in the next year, get aggressive now, it will cost you later if you wait. As a buyer in Rapallo follow the advice of Warren Buffett ~ “Never count on making a good sale. Have the purchase price be so attractive that even a mediocre sale gives good results.” Rapallo is a beautiful community with fantastic amenities and location. The flood of inventory puts the negotiating power in the buyers court. Make an offer!


CS 20847 Gleneagles Links Dr 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes SE Golf Course, Preserve 1877 1999 $499,900 $266 7/2/2010 $475,000 $253 226 95%

CS 20944 Island Sound Cir, #303 2 Bed 2 0 Furnished No No W Preserve, Other 1250 2002 $150,000 $120 8/16/2010 $142,500 $114 507 95%CS 4620 Turnberry Lake Dr, #103 2 Bed 2 0 Turnkey No No N Golf Course, Lake 1250 2000 $175,000 $140 7/2/2010 $144,500 $116 1010 83%CS 21840 Palmetto Dunes Dr, #101 3 Bed 2 0 Negotiable No No S Preserve 1759 2001 $300,000 $171 8/2/2010 $275,000 $156 397 92%CS 4690 Turnberry Lake Dr, #201 3 Bed 2 0 Negotiable No No NW Golf Course, Lake 1450 2001 $259,900 $179 7/12/2010 $245,000 $169 78 94%CS 20931 Island Sound Cir, #101 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished No No E Lake 1551 2002 $285,000 $184 7/7/2010 $260,000 $168 91 91%CS 21831 Palmetto Dunes Dr, #201 3+Den 2 0 Negotiable No No NE Lake 2170 2001 $399,900 $184 7/14/2010 $377,500 $174 250 94%CS 21722 Sound Way, #101 3 Bed 2 0 Negotiable No No SW Golf Course, Lake 1759 2000 $329,900 $188 7/2/2010 $316,000 $180 84 96%CS 7861 Classics Ct, #202 3+Den 2 0 Negotiable No No N Golf Course, Lake 2170 2001 $414,900 $191 7/8/2010 $407,000 $188 216 98%

Pelican Sound 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyPelican Sound.com

Single Family Homes in Pelican Sound (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Condos in Pelican Sound (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Pelican Sound had a slow August and will likely have a slow September. Sales in Pelican Sound will pick back up come winter when the seasonal residents arrive back in town. If you're a buyer for Pelican Sound now is a great time to make an offer because when the market is slow buyers hold greater negotiating power.

“Never count on making a good sale. Have the purchase price so attractive that even a mediocre sale gives good results.”

~ Warren Buffett

P = Pending / CS = Closed / = Short Sale / = Foreclosure P = Pending / CS = Closed / = Short Sale / = Foreclosure 2 | Special Market Report | September | October | 2010 Special Market Report | September | October | 2010 | 3


P 6911 Misty Lake Ct 3+Den 3 1 Unfurnished Yes Yes NW Golf Course, Lake 3250 2005 $1,150,000 $354 153

Shadow Wood Preserve 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyShadowWoodPreserve.com

Single Family Homes in Shadow Wood Preserve (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Single Family Homes in Shadow Wood Preserve (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)no condos sold in Shadow Wood Preserve from July 1st to August 31th, 2010

Shadow Wood Preserve is a gorgeous community and shared amenities with Shadow Wood at the Books. Shadow Wood Preserve is a great community to find the steal many buyers have been looking for. With few sales and many distressed, take Warren Buffett's advice when purchasing, “Never count on making a good sale. Have the purchase price so attractive that even a mediocre sale gives good results.” Shadow Wood Preserve offers top‐of‐the‐line amenities, golf, gorgeous homes and home sites offering a peaceful feel.


P 23341 Caraway Lakes Dr 2+Den 2 0 Furnished Yes Yes SE Golf Course, Lake 1955 2002 $409,000 $209 568CS 23760 Jasmine Lake Dr 3+Den 3 0 Turnkey Yes Yes W Golf Course, Lake 2090 2002 $479,000 $229 7/30/2010 $440,000 $211 516 92%CS 10501 Copper Lake Dr 4+Den 3 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes S Golf Course, Lake 2855 2002 $799,999 $280 7/13/2010 $737,500 $258 82 92%

Copperleaf at the Brooks 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyCopperleaf.com

Single Family Homes in Copperleaf at the Brooks (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Condos in Copperleaf at the Brooks (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)no condos sold in Copperleaf at the Brooks from July 1st to August 31st, 2010

Copperleaf at the Brooks saw a significant spike in price reductions in August reflecting the sellers are getting very realistic from the slower summer months. Copperleaf is traditionally slow until mid October when the seasonal residents start arriving in town. Beat the competition by making offers before season begins enabling yourself to enjoy your new home for the winter months .


P 10911 Oak Island Rd, #203 3+Den 2 0 Negotiable No No SE Lake 1446 2002 $149,000 $103 34CS 10851 Crooked River Rd, #202 3 Bed 2 0 Negotiable No No N Lake 2306 2003 $278,500 $121 7/29/2010 $268,000 $116 190 96%CS 10891 Crooked River Rd, #92-203 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished No No N Lake 2354 2003 $289,000 $123 8/25/2010 $250,000 $106 175 87%CS 10801 Halfmoon Shoal Rd, #104 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished No No SW Lake 1548 2001 $199,900 $129 7/21/2010 $192,500 $124 90 96%CS 10741 Halfmoon Shoal Rd, #101 2+Den 2 0 Negotiable No No W Lake 1998 2002 $269,000 $135 7/21/2010 $237,000 $119 297 88%

Lighthouse Bay at the Brooks 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyLighthouseBay.com

Lighthouse Bay at the Brooks (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Lighthouse Bay is the only non golf community of the Brooks making it unique and popular. Lighthouse Bay is a stable community with mostly seasonal sales, make your offers in the summer before the traffic of season begins while your negotiating powers is strongest.


CS 20367 Wildcat Run Dr S 4 Bed 4 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes N Golf Course, Pond 3375 2007 $499,900 $148 8/10/2010 $435,000 $129 112 87%

CS 12476 Water Oak Drive 3+Den 2 1 Unfurnished Yes Yes E Golf Course 2591 1990 $459,900 $177 7/23/2010 $415,000 $160 112 90%

CS 20285 Wildcat Run Dr 3 Bed 3 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes E Golf Course, Lake 2869 1989 $528,808 $184 8/5/2010 $500,000 $174 156 95%

P 20144 Cheetah Ln 3+Den 3 0 Furnished Yes Yes W Golf Course, Lake 3088 1997 $599,900 $194 202

CS 20240 Country Club Dr 3+Den 3 0 Furnished Yes Yes SW Golf Course 2660 2004 $535,000 $201 7/30/2010 $490,000 $184 82 92%

Wildcat Run 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyWildcatRun.com

Single Family Homes in Wildcat Run (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Condos in Wildcat Run (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)no condos sold in Wildcat Run from July 1st to August 31th, 2010

Wildcat Run has seen a rare slight increase in sales during the summer months which is promising for the seasonal residents arriving back to town. These sales were sparked by aggressive prices. When traffic picks up during season Price will STILL be key to getting home sold!


CS 21800 Longleaf Trail Dr 4 Bed 2 1 Furnished Yes Yes E Lake 2489 2005 $499,000 $200 7/21/2010 $471,000 $189 68 94%P 21861 Longleaf Trail Dr 3 Bed 2 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes N Golf Course 1989 2005 $422,900 $213 442CS 21990 Longleaf Trail Dr 3 Bed 2 1 Negotiable Yes Yes S Lake, Preserve 2502 2003 $599,000 $239 7/27/2010 $555,000 $222 117 93%P 22110 Shallowater Ln 4+Den 4 1 Unfurnished Yes Yes N Golf Course, Lake 5196 2007 $1,264,268 $243 49P 22527 Baycrest Ridge Dr 2+Den 2 0 Furnished Yes No S Lake 2153 2006 $529,000 $246 154CS 10750 Wintercress Dr 3+Den 3 0 Furnished Yes Yes W Golf Course 2405 2003 $619,000 $257 7/2/2010 $530,000 $220 196 86%CS 22900 Shady Knoll Dr 3+Den 3 1 Unfurnished Yes Yes SW Golf Course, Lake 2796 2001 $945,000 $338 7/6/2010 $830,000 $297 238 88%CS 22121 Shallowater Ln 3+Den 3 2 Unfurnished Yes Yes S Lake, Preserve 3539 2002 $1,399,000 $395 8/11/2010 $1,150,000 $325 215 82%P 22809 Mossy Trl 3+Den 4 0 Furnished Yes Yes E Lake 3903 2001 $1,650,000 $423 273

CS 10472 Autumn Breeze Dr, #101 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished No No W Golf Course, Lake 1632 2004 $234,900 $144 8/31/2010 $200,000 $123 401 85%P 9635 Cypress Hammock Cir, #102 2+Den 2 1 Unfurnished No No NW Lake 2060 2002 $343,900 $167 52CS 23011 Rosedale Dr, #101 2+Den 2 0 Negotiable No No E Golf Course, Lake 1632 2002 $272,500 $167 8/2/2010 $245,000 $150 181 90%CS 9101 Palmetto Ridge Dr, #102 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished No No E Golf Course, Lake 1632 2003 $275,000 $169 8/27/2010 $262,500 $161 1 95%

Shadow Wood at the Brooks 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyShadowWoodHome.com

Single Family Homes in Shadow Wood at the Brooks (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Condos in Shadow Wood at the Brooks (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

“It’s far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.” ~ (Warren Buffett) Shadow Wood is a wonderful community were prices have held strong compared to other communities. Distressed sales are very hard to come by and when they do they draw so much attention that they don't sell at distress prices. Shadow Wood has been slow in August buy by the time season comes there will be a flood of buyers as Shadow Wood the Brooks is about 75% seasonal. If you are a potential buyer why not try an offer now while your negotiating power is strongest. Showings are down and sellers are antsy, its a great time of year to start negotiations.


P 9023 Spring Run Blvd 3 Bed 2 0 Turnkey No Yes W Golf Course 1502 1998 $254,900 $170 177CS 9109 Spring Run Blvd 2+Den 2 0 Furnished Yes No N Golf Course, Lake 1564 2000 $349,000 $223 8/4/2010 $325,000 $208 154 93%CS 9180 Spring Run Blvd 3+Den 3 0 Unfurnished Yes Yes S Golf Course, Lake 2058 2000 $499,900 $243 7/1/2010 $470,000 $228 123 94%

P 9281 Spring Run Blvd, #2607 2 Bed 2 0 Turnkey No No E Golf Course 1209 2001 $180,000 $149 128CS 23506 Sandycreek Ter, #108 2 Bed 2 0 Furnished No No W Golf Course, Lake 1376 1998 $218,900 $159 8/5/2010 $210,000 $153 24 96%CS 23531 Sandycreek Ter, #906 2+Den 2 0 Turnkey No No E Golf Course 1811 1998 $290,000 $160 7/30/2010 $250,000 $138 127 86%

Spring Run at the Brooks 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MySpringRun.com

Single Family Homes in Spring Run at the Brooks (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Condos in Spring Run at the Brooks (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

The average days on market for homes currently on the market in Spring Run is about 5 months. Spring Run is traditionally slow in the summer due to the majority seasonal residences. Many sellers currently on the market throughout this summer are ready for an offer and are ready to negotiate due to the inactivity that this off‐season has brought. Spring Run is a solid community with few distress sales and a strong demand come season. Buyers have the most negotiating power outside of season when buyer competition is down.


P 10324 Porto Romano Dr 3+Den 2 1 Unfurnished Yes Yes N Golf Course, Lake 1966 2007 $375,000 $191 159CS 17850 Modena Rd 2+Den 2 0 Turnkey Yes Yes SE Lake 1705 2003 $359,000 $211 7/28/2010 $325,000 $191 100 91%CS 10451 Via Lombardia Ct 4+Den 4 2 Furnished Yes Yes N Lake 5616 2007 $3,995,000 $711 7/20/2010 $2,850,000 $507 955 71%

P 19685 Marino Lake Cir, #1403 3 Bed 3 0 Unfurnished No No W Preserve 2686 2007 $198,900 $74 74CS 19691 Marino Lake Cir, #1302 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished No No S Preserve 2160 2006 $160,000 $74 8/9/2010 $150,000 $69 373 94%CS 10541 Marino Pointe Dr, #2004 3+Den 3 0 Unfurnished No No S Lake 2686 2006 $217,000 $81 8/13/2010 $217,000 $81 30 100%CS 17721 Via Bella Acqua Ct, #803 3 Bed 3 0 Unfurnished No No E Lake 2832 2007 $396,000 $140 7/29/2010 $430,000 $152 21 109%CS 10692 Mirasol Dr, #1003 3+Den 3 0 Unfurnished No No N Lake 3643 2007 $529,900 $145 7/20/2010 $490,000 $135 75 92%CS 10130 Bellavista Cir, #1003 4 Bed 3 0 Turnkey No No S Golf Course 2686 2004 $399,000 $149 7/22/2010 $380,000 $141 230 95%CS 17721 Via Bella Acqua Ct, #802 3+Den 3 1 Unfurnished No No E Lake 2832 2007 $433,248 $153 7/9/2010 $397,500 $140 18 92%CS 17750 Via Bella Acqua Ct, #301 2 Bed 2 1 Unfurnished No No W Lake 2193 2007 $339,900 $155 7/22/2010 $290,000 $132 90 85%P 10730 Vivaldi Ct, #502 3+Den 3 1 Unfurnished No No E Lake 2832 2005 $499,000 $176 1231CS 17701 Via Bella Acqua Ct, #701 2+Den 2 0 Unfurnished No No E Lake, Water 2355 2007 $462,500 $196 8/4/2010 $408,000 $173 2 88%P 10734 Mirsol Dr, #303 3+Den 3 0 Unfurnished No No N Lake 3634 2009 $725,000 $200 245P 10734 Mirasol Dr N, #301 3 Bed 3 0 Unfurnished No No N Lagoon 2743 2010 $550,000 $201 $360,000 $131 229 65%CS 10671 Via Milano Dr Se, #1902 3+Den 3 1 Unfurnished No No SE Lake 2832 2007 $575,000 $203 8/27/2010 $498,500 $176 78 87%

Miromar Lakes at the Brooks 12-Month Market Trends

To view Active listings visit www.MyMiromar Lakes.com

Single Family Homes in Miromar Lakes (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Condos and Midrises in Miromar Lakes (Closed & Pending From July 1st to August 31th, 2010)

Miromar Lakes like most other luxury communities had a slow August and will likely see a slow September . For buyers, the slow time is the perfect time to bring offers and to negotiate the bottom line dollar price. Traffic will begin to increase come mid October and the buyer negotiating power will begin to diminish. Miromar Lakes is truly a 5‐star resort community with amenities that no other luxury golf course community can match in the Greater Coconut Point Area. The unique beauty of Miromar Lakes brings consistent demand for Miromar Lakes homes, however as in other slower moving communities, buyers will shop and expect great value. Miromar Lakes has a large amount of distressed sales with 6 of 11 closed sales in July and August being distressed sales.



REALESTATE .com

6246. enjoy this beautiful great room floor plan with, 4 bedroom+den, 2 bath, 2291 under air, 3159 total sf. Numerous upgrades, impressive tray ceilings, tile on diagonal, hardwood and carpet flooring, decorator ceiling fans/fixtures, 8ft solid doors, plantation shutters. State-of-the-art kitchen, stainless appliances, built in oven, rich granite countertops, tile backsplash. Fabulous expanded lanai with built-in electric heated pool/spa offering tranquil, private preserve views. Offered at $459,500.

Call Michael 239-498-7600.

Grandézza, Estero8933. Estate home with 4 bed+den, 4.5 baths, 3495 under air, 4867 total sf, with 3-car garage. Beautiful, spacious home with numerous upgrades. tile in main living, crown molding, silhouette blinds, window treatments, variety of tray ceilings formal dining and living room. Gourmet kitchen, built-in stainless appliances, paneled cabinetry, breakfast nook with dramatic miter windows. Family room corner-corner sliders leads to expansive paver lanai, built-in pool/spa with gorgeous lake views. Offered at $1,000,000.


Grandézza, Estero

7607. 3 bed+den, 3 full/2 half bath, 3658 sf under air, 7036 sf total. Decorated w/european flair, offering the highest quality available in appliances & upgrades thru-out. Hand forged iron front door, 24x24 marble, artists faux paint/custom designs, double/triple crown molding, plantation shutters tile/travertine inlays, surround sound/speakers, custom built-ins. Gourmet kitchen, w/Viking built-in paneled appliances, 6 burner w/griddle, stainless gas stove, granite counter-tops. Separate enclave w/wet-bar, built-in wine cellar w/custom designed double rod iron doors. Family w/built-in entertainment center leading to a vast lanai, 24x24 & 12x12 artists pavers, gas heated built-in pool, cascading spa, summer kitchen. Stunning Gazebo surrounding a built-in fire-place w/lush tropical & golf course views. Offered at $1,499,000. Call Michael 239-498-7600.

Shadow Wood at the Brooks,Bonita Springs 2876. 3 Bed+Den, 3.5 Bath, 3,014 under air,

5,693 total sf courtyard home w/beautiful expansive views of lake, golf course & woods. Numerous upgrades thru-out, crown molding, plantation shutters, tile, hardwood floors, custom built-ins, Bose surround sound. Stunning gourmet kitchen, w/granite countertops, 42” cherry cabinets w/crown molding, decorative tile. Offered at $699,000.


Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

1651. Turnkey, immaculate first floor 2 bed, 2 bath, 1376 sf under air, 1788 total sf coach home with attached. perfect for the avid golfer offering bundled golf. Spacious kitchen, raised white cabinetry and appliances opens to living room with wall-wall sliders leading to the tiled lanai with decorator ceiling fan with gorgeous vast lake views. Located in Spring Run located within walking distance to the new coconut point mall with shopping, movie theater and fine dining. Offered at $209,000.


Spring Run at the Brooks,Bonita Springs 1690. Turnkey PLUS included 2002 Chrysler

Sebring convertible, first floor, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1654 sf under air, 2000 total sf carriage home with attached garage. tile, carpet, window blinds throughout. Spacious kitchen, with breakfast area open to living room and wall-wall sliders leading to the lanai offering tropical views of golf course and beautiful 53 sf club house. master bedroom with private entry to lanai, nice size private bath and large tile walk-in shower. enjoy this condo located in Sabal Palm, a subdivision Grandezza, offering it’s own private pool and community center. Offered at $189,900. Call Michael 239-498-7600.

Grandézza, Estero

3083. Stunning 2-story Villa in private enclave of the Colony, 4 bed, 4.5 bath, 3685 under air, 6363 total sf. Gorgeous Mediterranean architecture, tropical courtyard, lush landscaping, cabana, built-in pool/spa with views of sprawling lake. Offering only top of the line upgrades and designer decorated throughout. 1st floor with marble floors upon entrance, rich hardwood flooring in the living, dining room. Fabulous gourmet kitchen, double stainless steel built-in refrigerator and wall ovens, granite counter-tops, gas 6-burner stove with griddle. 2nd floor with vast master bedroom, large dressing area, gorgeous bath and private French door entry to the beautiful terrace. 3 additional terraces and 2 guest suites with private baths, all offering tropical views. Offered at $1,340,000.Call Michael 239-498-7600.

Villa Trevi - The Colony,Bonita Springs 2314. turnkey, second floor unit, 2+den, 2

bath, attached garage, 1811 under air, 2221 total sf coach home. Beautifully decorated in a tropical décor, accented painted walls throughout, berber carpet, tile floors, decorative window treatments and blinds. Large kitchen, backsplash tile, white paneled cabinets, large eating area. cozy living room with wall-wall sliders and tile lanai with tropical views of the golf course and tranquil lake, wooded and landscape area beyond. enjoy a round of golf with this unit where bundled golf is included in the community of Spring Run. Offered at $295,000. Call Michael 239-498-7600.

Spring Run at the Brooks,Bonita Springs


Choose success. Choose Michael.Few real estate agents are as driven as Michael Burke. A member of numerous local real estate committees, this multi-million dollar producer keeps tabs on the local market by staying intimately involved. Whether you are selling or buying, Michael brings to the table strong negotiation skills, state-of-the-art marketing methods, integrity, and the ambition it takes to achieve 100 percent satisfaction. His drive to succeed is tempered only by his understanding of his clients’ needs.

Visit www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com for Additional Pictures of These and Other SW Florida Homes or Call D. Michael Burke, p.a. 239.498.7600 for More Information

Choose Michael Burke as your real estate agent, and sit on the side of suCCess.

2283. Furnished, courtyard, 3 bed+den, 3 bath, 3154 under air, 5701 total sf, home. Rich in details and upgrades, with gorgeous views of golf course and woods beyond. Designer decorated, plantation shutters, window treatments, faux paint, hardwood, tile floors, built-in’s, plus much more. Gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances, built-in range, rich cherry cabinets w/crown molding, granite countertop. Formal dining and living room and beautiful den. paver courtyard, built-in pool/spa, flower beds. Offered at $799,995.


Shadow Wood At The Brooks, Bonita Springs

Twin Eagles, Naples2918. Build your own custom estate home on this large lot on the 10th fairway in this exclusive golfing community, w/two golf courses designed by Nicklaus & Player. Private community offers miles of scenic walking trails, biking paths, parks, gardens, 47,000 sf clubhouse, Har-tru tennis courts, fitness club, dining & has hosted the ACE Group Classic & PGA Champions Tour! Offered at $99,000.



REALESTATE .com

6295. 3 bed+den, 4 bath, 3525 sf under air, 6503 sf total. Featuring the builders custom designs & upgrades thru-out w/variety of tray ceilings, crown molding, custom tile floor, tile inserts, miter windows, hand forged front door, plantation shutters, custom built-ins, designer decorated window treatments. Gourmet kitchen w/stainless built-ins, 6 burner gas stove top, tumbled stone tile backsplash, granite counter-tops. 2 guest suites w/private baths, master suite w/2 large walk-in closets, 4 section tray ceiling w/crown molding, Lanai w/pavers, summer kitchen w/built-in grill, refrigerator, sink. Fireplace & zero edge heated built-in pool w/cascading spa & fountain w/views of the 7th fairway, 2 large lakes & the 6th fairway beyond. Offered at $1,425,000.


Shadow Wood at the Brooks,Bonita Springs

3142. This 2 bed+den, 2 bath, 2050 sf under, 3467 total sf, Key West style home features an outstanding 1500 bottle climate controlled wine room w/tasting table. Discriminating details and custom finishes and upgrades throughout. Gourmet kitchen, built-in appliances, granite counters, cabinets w/crown and accented paned inserts. Great room with fabulous built-in entertainment center and impressive beamed ceilings and beautiful inlaid marble floors. Added bonus with lower level 4 car garage. Offered at $399,000.


Bonita Bay, Bonita Springs

9680. First floor, 2 bed+den, 2 bath Coach home w/attached two car garage located in a private exclusive community. Numerous upgrades, w/plantation shutters, blinds, crown molding, tile, decorative fans and electric shutters off the lanai just by a push of a switch. Kitchen w/decorative backsplash tile and breakfast bar looking into the warm casual dining area. expansive sliders from dining and living room lead to tiled lanai with beautiful tropical views of the golf course and large lake. Offered at $309,900.


Shadow Wood at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

2353. 4,260 sf under air, 5140 total sf, 3 bed+den, 3.5 bath designed by an artist whose vision for detail is masterful. Grand Foyer featuring a hand-painted mural with copper and gold accents. Living Room with a forever view of Estero Bay and Gulf of mexico. trellised ceiling, mirrored wall panels of the formal Dining Room, metallic glass inlays in the Kitchen and Family Room, and carved glass doors in the Den add a visual dimension unlike any. master Suite with its european trim and two additional Bedrooms provide family/guest’s desired privacy. Offered at $1,727,000.


LaScala - The Colony,Bonita Springs

3839. Mediterranean inspired 3 bed, 2 bath 1979 sf under air, 3142 total sf Villa. Stunning paver loggia w/rod iron fence, 10’ ceilings, tile, berber carpet. Kitchen, with café’ eating area, cabinets w/crown molding & drop lighting. Grand living/dining room, expansive corner-corner sliders leading to the lanai/courtyard with built-in summer kitchen with large lake and soothing fountain views. Located in the resort style community of Rapallo At coconut point with numerous amenities. Offered at $339,000.


Rapallo at Coconut Point,Estero

2265. Enjoy this 2nd floor, 2 bed, 2 bath, 1333 under air, 1511 total sf, Carriage home. Perfect for avid golfer with bundled golf and fantastic amenities. Vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, upgraded carpet in main living areas, spacious eat-in kitchen. Large living room with sliders leading to the tile lanai with wonderful views of the golf course and lake. conveniently located to airport, walking distance to coconut point mall with shopping, casual and fine dining. Offered at $169,000.


Spring Run at the Brooks,Bonita Springs

9052. Custom home, 4 bed+den, 5.5 bath, 4355 sf under air, 6707 total sf. Marble & bamboo flooring, custom raised cherry cabinetry & built-ins, red onyx counter-tops, crown molding, surround sound, tray ceilings, the list goes on! Gourmet kitchen, 42”/48” cabinets, sub-zero refrigerator, 48” wolf dual-fuel oven/range, butler pantry. Lanai, zero edge pool, sun shelf, spa, kitchen, fireplace, pool bath, & private boat dock w/lake views. Exquisite 1st floor master suite & bath w/marble & cherry cabinetry & 2nd floor bedroom suite, bath, leisure room, kitchenette & terrace. Offered at $2,500,000.


Miromar Lakes, Miromar Lakes

5029. Beautiful 2 bed+den, 2 bath, 1478 sf, 1904 total sf, carriage home decorated in a tropical decor’ throughout. Tile, designer window treatments, decorative light fixtures/fans, accented painted & papered walls, vaulted ceilings, radio/intercom throughout. Large kitchen, cabinets w/crown molding, rope lighting, breakfast bar, & large open window archway with views into the spacious living/dining room . master bedroom, large walk-in closet, expansive windows & private entry to the tile lanai with tranquil views of golf course and vast lake beyond. Offered at $209,000.


Grandézza, Estero


Choose success. Choose Michael.Few real estate agents are as driven as Michael Burke. A member of numerous local real estate committees, this multi-million dollar producer keeps tabs on the local market by staying intimately involved. Whether you are selling or buying, Michael brings to the table strong negotiation skills, state-of-the-art marketing methods, integrity, and the ambition it takes to achieve 100 percent satisfaction. His drive to succeed is tempered only by his understanding of his clients’ needs.

Visit www.CoconutPointRealEstate.com for Additional Pictures of These and Other SW Florida Homes or Call D. Michael Burke, p.a. 239.498.7600 for More Information

Choose Michael Burke as your real estate agent, and sit on the side of suCCess.


REALESTATE .com

1050. Spacious, inviting 3 bedroom+den, 2.5 bath, 2297 sf under air, 3046 total sf, condo w/attached garage. High ceilings, tray ceilings w/crown, archways, decorative wall niches, tile in main living areas and den, decorated in neutral tones. Kitchen cabinets w/crown molding, accented tile backsplash, breakfast bar opens to casual eating area. Large Great room with wall-wall slider leading to the tiled lanai with gorgeous views of expansive lake/w/fountain and woods beyond. Offered at $375,000.


Miromar Lakes, Miromar

8349. Beautiful 5 bed+den, 4.5 bath, 3-car garage, 5459 under air, 6500 total sq estate home. Abundance of upgrades in this modified St. Augustine VI floor plan built by Arthur Rutenburg Homes with formal dining and living room. pillars, archways, tile, crown molding, tray ceilings, custom built-ins, mitered windows, designer window treatments – very dramatic. Gourmet kitchen, granite counter-tops, cabinets w/crown molding, built-in paneled and stainless appliances. Fabulous lanai, outdoor kitchen and fireplace, built-in pool/spa with tranquil tropical views of expansive lake and preserve beyond. Offered at $1,200,000. Call Michael 239-498-7600.

Verandah, Fort Myers

8805. Enjoy a resort lifestyle in this 3 bedroom, 2 bath, attached garage, 1732 under air, 2196 total sf coach home. 10’ ceilings, tile on diagonal, designer fixtures, plantation shutters and blinds. Spacious open-concept kitchen, stainless appliances, cabinets w/crown molding, granite counter-tops. tile lanai with gorgeous tropical water with fountains and wooded views. this mediterranean inspired community offers an outstanding abundance of amenities. Offered at $300,000.


Rapallo At Coconut Point, Estero

2862. First floor carriage home w/attached 2 car garage, 3bed, 2 baths, 1647 under air, 2256 total sf. Beautifully decorated with a tropical décor. Newly installed bamboo laminate flooring in great room, dining & den, accented paint on walls w/artist added custom accent, window treatments thru-out. Kitchen cabinets w/crown, breakfast nook w/large windows & slider leading to lanai w/electric shutters. Spectacular views of an expansive lake, tropical landscaping & golf course. Seller willing to provide a $10,000 credit towards golf membership. Offered at $272,000.


Grandézza, Estero

0442. Great room floor plan in this beautiful penthouse with 3 bed+den, 3.5 bath 2832 under air sf, 3836 total sf, two car attached garage. tray ceilings, rope lighting, gourmet kitchen w/stainless steel built-in appliances, gas 6 burner cooktop, tile backsplash. Stunning tiled wrap around balcony with outstanding lake views & private tiled balcony of the guest bedroom. Located in the exclusive community of miromar Lakes with 700 acres of freshwater lakes, clubhouse, golf course, european spa, tennis courts and fitness. Offered at $620,000.


Miromar Lakes, Miromar

3075. Open great room floor plan in this, 4 bed+den, 3 bath, 3022 under air, 5483 total sf, home. An abundance of upgrades, stunning bamboo hardwood floors throughout, 18x18 tile, tray ceilings, crown molding, miter window. Gourmet kitchen, built-in stainless steel appliances, granite counter-tops, tile backsplash. Great room with wall-wall disappearing sliders, bring the beautiful tropical outdoors in. paver lanai, built-in pool/spa, flower beds with sprawling lake, golf course and tropical wooded views. Short sale, offered at $475,000.


The Plantation, Fort Myers

2194. Owner financing available in this 2nd floor immaculate 2 bed+den, 2 bath, 1811 under air, 1221 total sf, with attached garage. Numerous upgrades, decorated in neutral tones, high vaulted ceilings, decorative fixtures/ceiling fans, window treatments, large 18x18 tile in kitchen, lanai and baths. Spacious kitchen with large eating area and dining/living room with sliders leading out to the screened lanai offering gorgeous sprawling lake views. Great community offering bundled golf and amenities and conveniently located to airport, walking distance to coconut point mall with shopping, casual and fine dining. Offered at $315,000.


Spring Run at the Brooks, Bonita Springs

7095. Beautiful attached end unit villa, 2 bed+den, 2 bath, 1604 under air, 2873 total sf, w/2 car attached garage. Immaculate, bright and airy, stylishly decorated in a casual beach/cottage theme. plantation shutters, tile in main living, niches, archways, custom built-ins, decorative fixtures. Kitchen nook with cozy, picturesque breakfast nook w/custom built-in seating. Living and den with custom built-ins. Gorgeous tropical views of landscaping, golf course and lake from master bedroom and lanai w/built-in pool and cabinets. Offered at $349,000.


Spring Run, Bonita Springs

6522. Gorgeous beach front and lake views in this 3 bed+den, 3.5 bath, 2429 under air, 2841 total sf. High ceilings, 5 ¼” crown molding, archways, tile in main living areas, security system, 2 lanai’s. Kitchen w/granite counter-tops, gas cook top, built-in wall oven, 42” cabinets w/crown molding, tile backsplash. Living/dining area w/wall full of sliders leads to the tiled lanai w/tranquil lake, beach, clubhouse/pool views. master suite, his/her walk-in closets, sitting area, entry to 2nd balcony and private bath w/marble vanity, roman soaking tub, large walk in shower. two family/guests bedrooms, both w/private baths. Offered at $699,900.


Mirasol, Miromar Lakes Beach

9440. Perfect layout for your family and guests in this 4 bedroom + den, 3.5 bath, great room floor plan with 2453 sf under air, 3150 total sf. Dramatic 2-story ceiling, 18” tile on diagonal, plantation shutters, designer window treatments and fixtures. Spacious kitchen, convection built-in oven, cook top, 42” cabinets, backsplash tile, granite counter-tops. Den and master suite on 1st floor with tray ceilings surrounded in rich crown molding. Gorgeous sprawling lake and wooded views from the lanai with built-in heated pool/spa offering complete privacy. Offered at $565,000.


Shadow Wood At The Brooks, Bonita Springs


The Bonita/Estero Legal Real Estate Corner with Sharon ZuccaroSharon Zuccaro is a real estate attorney with the law firm of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. in Bonita Springs. Her primary area of practice involves representing developers, sellers and buyers in commercial and residential real estate transactions. More specifically, Sharon concentrates her practice in matters involving finance, contracts, leases, closings and title insurance. Sharon can be reached at 239.344.1378 or via email at [email protected].

Lost in Paradise A passenger on a cruise ship heading to Key West spots a bearded man on a small island, shouting and desperately waving his hands. The passenger goes to the captain and asks: “Who is that?” The captain says, “Beats me. Every week when we pass, he goes nuts.”

Ryan Design gRoup llc

GeorGina ryan

President ~ desiGner

3333 renaissance Blvd. suite 226 Bonita sPrinGs, Fl 34134oFFice 239.992.5808 cell 239.405.2277 Fax 239.992.4202

email [email protected] www.ryandes.com

Photo by Randall Perry of RANDALL PERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

Should You Use An Attorney for Your Closing? By D. Michael Burke In the State of Florida, attorneys can be trained and licensed in title underwriting, but many homebuyers and sellers don’t know that they could use an attorney for their closing. Others are simply reluctant. there are many reasons why agents and their clients shy away from using an attorney to close, but many of those reasons are based on misperceptions of what an attorney does. My point is, there are many benefits to hiring an attorney for your closing. Often real estate agents will say it is not necessary if a client asks whether they should hire an attorney, but the truth is that a title company cannot offer the same level of service that an attorney can. When my clients ask about having an attorney handle their closing, I generally recommend a colleague and friend of mine, Sharon Zuccaro. With 23 years of experience as a real estate attorney, I couldn’t think of anyone better than Sharon to consult with on advising my readers on whether to use an attorney for their closings. Sharon is a partner with the firm of Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. in Bonita Springs. According to my discussions with Sharon, there are three major reasons to choose an attorney over a title company for your closing:1) An attorney can provide legal counsel. the biggest reason why you should hire an attorney is because of the availability of legal advice, something a title company can’t and won’t offer. “A title company can only prepare the legal documents in conjunction with the transaction that it is insuring,” Sharon explained. A title company doesn’t offer any customization for your particular case, and they certainly don’t offer legal counsel. “they can tell you there’s a title defect which necessitates hiring an attorney, but they can’t correct the defect or advise you what to do in order to correct it.” And don’t assume that problems won’t occur. many closings go smoothly, but many don’t. For instance, under an attorney’s watchful eye you may discover code violations, HOA regulations and local ordinances that will prevent you from using the property the way you want, or contract language that is not legally binding. Short sales and foreclosures may also require an attorney’s expertise. For instance, if the home

is occupied, what will you do about the tenants? A title company cannot help you resolve any of these issues. “Some of these questions can be handled by your real estate agent, depending on the sophistication of the agent,” Sharon said, noting that many won’t because of the liability if they give bad advice. 2) An attorney is looking out for your best interests. Besides having the availability of legal advice if you need it, having an attorney to cover your closing also means that you have someone in your corner, so to speak. An attorney can make sure that you will be able to build on the property the way you want, for instance. they can keep an eye on your contract deadlines and make sure you don’t miss any. When they read through the contract to make sure it is legally binding, they will also be making sure it is all in your favor. Anything that could be a problem later on down the road, they can bring to your attention, and help you resolve. A title company, on the other hand, is a neutral third party whose scope of services do not including monitoring contract deadlines. “With an attorney, you’re getting someone who is looking out for you, and is promoting your best interests,” Sharon said. “that’s important, because if something goes wrong, if contract deadlines are missed, you could lose your deposit – or worse.” Don’t underestimate the value of having someone with this kind of expertise looking out for you. “Often the buyer thinks that as long as they get title insurance, they are good to go,” Sharon said. “But the clear majority of buyers don’t really know how to read and understand a title insurance commitment or policy, and my impression from client feedback is that title companies do not thoroughly review with its customer title insurance coverage or lack thereof.” Often real estate agents, and even their clients, drag their feet at the thought of involving an attorney, because they perceive attorneys as deal breakers. Sharon cautions against this assumption, however. “If the client wants to close, that’s the goal of the client, and the attorney should serve to effectuate the client’s goals,” she said. A good attorney will work with the other parties as needed to make it happen.

that’s the point of an attorney – to help you achieve your goal while still looking out for your interests.3) An attorney is more affordable than you think. One of the biggest deterrents to hiring an attorney, Sharon believes, is a mistaken belief that it will cost too much. the opposite is true: closing attorneys have become extremely competitive with the title companies. Yet as she points out, you get so much more. “You’re buying more than just title insurance – you’re also getting representation and legal counsel during the transaction.” Investing in a home is a significant transaction, probably the biggest purchase you will ever make. Hiring an attorney to handle the closing ensures that someone who understands the finer points of the transaction will be looking out for you. Although it may seem like a title company and a closing attorney offer the same service, in truth the attorney offers peace of mind that the title company simply cannot provide. What it all comes down to, Sharon said, is that an attorney gives you more benefit for your money than a title company. “A title company is limited to issuing title insurance,” she said. “I can offer a lot of other benefits in addition to that.” As an agent specializing in Southwest Florida’s luxury real estate, I can tell you that you can’t put a dollar amount on peace of mind – but when it costs about the same as something you have to have anyway, it would not make sense not to take it. If you have further questions Sharon Zuccaro can be reached at Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A. in Bonita Springs at (239) 344-1100.


Air Conditioning Maintenance Essential For Indoor Comfort

Around the House

Air conditioning systems are essential for comfortable living in Florida and with a few simple steps, keeping cool can be a breeze. “The most basic and important thing people can do to keep air conditioning systems working properly and make them last as long as possible is to change the air filter regularly,” says Steve Marino, founder and CEO of Home-Tech. With more than 30 years servicing air conditioning units and appliances in Southwest Florida, Home-Tech has extensive expertise in maintenance, particularly in our climate. Air filters should be changed or cleaned about once a month. When choosing a filter, you’ll want to pay attention to its minimal efficiency reporting value, or MERV rating. They range from one to 20 and the higher the MERV, the more particles it will filter out of your air. Most flat washable or disposable filters are between one and four, while pleated or extended surface filters fall between five and 13. Filters rated higher than this are definitely better at cleaning the air, but may also begin to block air flow. It’s a good idea to ask your indoor comfort professional for recommended filters for your system. An annual system cleaning and check up should also be part of your air conditioning maintenance plan. Companies like Home-Tech will give your system, including the condenser, coils, vents and duct work, a thorough inspection and cleaning to

make sure all parts are running properly and as efficiently as possible. These checks may uncover some potential problems that you’ll want to address immediately, like leaks in duct work, low refrigerant charge, or noisy operation which could cost you a lot of un-air conditioned time and expense later on. “Your air conditioning system’s duct work is one of its most important components” Marino says.” If you’ve got leaks in your duct work, chances are good there’s at least one room in your house that always hot or cold – no matter what temperature you set your thermostat. That’s because cool (or warm) air is escaping through the duct work on its way to that room. Leaky ducts also make your system less efficient and more expensive to operate.” Home-Tech includes a complimentary annual clean and check in all of its service agreements, which also

Home-Tech technician

includes unlimited service on your air conditioning system and major home appliances including parts and labor, for one low annual fee, so owning your home can be stress free. For more information, call Kimberly Riching at 239-823-6953.

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Michael’s constant companions. If you see us out and about... please stop us and say hello!

Featured Pets

Names: Einstein, Juno & RouserID #: 477218 (Einstein), 477219

(Juno), 477217 (Rouser)Breed: Domestic Short Hair Sex: .............................................Male (Einstein), Females ................... (Juno & Rouser)Age: Three months oldColor: Black ...................................Comments: Hi I’m Einstein. My sisters, Juno and Rouser, and I were just little babies when we arrived at the shelter but we were lucky to have a foster home to spend most of our babyhood. That means we are very socialized and are used to being indoor cats. This is what our foster mom has to say about us: Einstein is very independent but sweet and attentive to his sisters. Juno is playful and lively but when not playing, she’s a little lover. Rouser is an expressive little talker and initiates a lot of the play but loves to get attention too. Adoption Fee: $75 ea. (or $50 when you donate 10 lbs. of unopened cat food to the Community Pet Pantry)

Name: Ginette ID #: 477811Breed: Hound MixSex FemaleAge: Three years oldColor: Tan ..........................................comments: I am an undiscovered treasure and the Behavioral consultant who volunteers at Animal Services is totally impressed with me! I have an amazing response to come and Sit. I’m also very attentive to people. I guess that’s because I love people so much. Won’t you visit me at the shelter to see what a wonderful companion I would be for your whole family? Adoption Fee: $75 (or $50 when you donate 10 lbs. of unopened cat food to the community pet pantry)

Back To School Adoption Special Get $25 off the regular adoption fee for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens when you donate 10 lbs. of unopened cat food to the community pet pantry! Regular adoption fees range from $25 for pets six years of age and older to $95 for puppies. For information about this week’s pets, call 533-7387 (LEE-PETS) or log on to Animal Services’ website at www.LeeLostpets.com. When calling, please refer to the animal’s ID number. the website updates every hour so you will be able to see if these or any other pets are still available. the shelter is open for adoptions from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm monday through Saturday. The Shelter is located at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, next to the Lee county Sheriff ’s Office, off Six mile cypress pkwy. All adoptions include spay/neuter surgery, age-appropriate vaccinations, rabies vaccination & county license if 3 months or older, flea treatment, worming, heartworm test for dogs 6 months & over, feline aids & leukemia test for cats, training DVD, 10 day health guarantee, and a bag of Science Diet pet food. The adoption package is valued at $500.

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Tips For Keeping Pets Slim, Trim And Healthy, Naturally If you think obesity is an epidemic that affects only people, you may be barking up the wrong tree. Pets also have to watch their weight. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, 44 percent of dogs and 57 percent of cats are overweight or obese, and that percentage is rising, with older animals displaying an even higher incidence of falling victim to those extra pounds. Veterinarians report that overweight pets are also more likely to suffer from arthritis, heart and respiratory diseases, liver disease, skin problems, hip and joint disorders and diabetes. “Just as for people, eating right and getting exercise are fundamental to a pet’s health,” says board-certified veterinary nutritionist Dr. Edward Moser. “Paying attention to the ingredients and amount of food that your pet consumes, along with increasing their activity levels, will help the pounds come off and stay off.” To help fat cats and pudgy pooches slim down, Dr. Moser says owners should choose a balanced diet for their pets with ingredients that can help naturally solve this challenging health problem. This special, lower-calorie recipe is formulated to help them achieve their weight-loss goals. A healthy blend of fiber satisfies hunger, and guaranteed levels of glucosamine and chondroitin support overburdened hips and joints. Instituting a controlled eating plan is a step in the right direction to maintaining your pet’s health, but increasing your pet’s activity level is sure to help, too. Exercise is essential for a pet’s happy and long life. It doesn’t have to be strenuous, but regular exercise is key. Setting aside a period of time each day for your pet’s physical activity helps encourage a routine and also gives your pet something to look forward to. Take your dog for frequent walks and be certain your cat has room to romp. That can help them burn off excess calories. “Remember, two extra pounds on a small dog can be like 20 extra pounds on a person,” says Dr. Moser. “It’s important to watch your pet’s weight.”

Did you know that 44 percent of dogs and 57 percent of cats are overweight or obese?


September / October Events

Important “239” Numbers

eMerGeNCYPolice, Fire, Medical ...................................... 911Lee County Ambulance (Non Emergency)...............................................................335-1600Lee County Sheriff (Non Emergency)...............................................................477-1200lee CouNTY eMerGeNCY MANAGeMeNT(Weather & Disaster Spills) ..................477-3600Poison Control Center ....................800-282-3171HosPITAls:North Collier Hospital.............................513-7000Health Park Hospital ..............................433-7799CHAMBer oF CoMMerCe (Local Area):Bonita Springs Area ..............................992-2943Estero Area ...........................................948-7990lIBrArY (local Area):Bonita Public Library .............................992-1043Estero South County Regional Library ..390-3200lICeNse (Lee County):Animal License .....................................432-2083Boat Registration/Fishing License .........339-6000Drivers License .....................................278-7192VeHICle reGIsTrATIoN - Lee County...............................................................339-6000VoTers reGIsTrATIoN ...................339-6300

Bonita Springs • Estero • Ft. Myers • Naples The Promenade Art Walk: (Bonita springs)Sept 30, 5-7pm. Evening of art and entertainment with array of artists.

Germain Arena: (estero)Sept/Oct, Disney On Ice, Stone Temple Pilots. For further shows & Everblades schedule & times call (239) 948-7825 or visit www.GermainArena.com.

Coconut Point Mall: (estero)Live entertainment located at Plaza Del Lago Dr. patio.

Mall-o-Ween Miromar outlet Mall: (estero)Oct 30, 4-7pm. Mall wide trick-or-treat begins at 4pm. Pet costume contest 5pm (4:45 pm registration), located near Reebok. Kids costume contest 6pm in Playland.

Hammond stadium: (Fort Myers)Sept, Miracle Baseball for tickets and schedule call 239 768-4210, or visit www.miraclebaseball.com.

Gulf Coast Town Center: (Ft. Myers)8-10pm – Weekend concert series

Broadway Palm Dinner Theater: (Ft. Myers)For info and listing of shows visit www.BroadwayPalm.com or call 239 278-4422

Barbara B. Mann Theatre: (Ft. Myers)For info and shows, visit, www.bbmannpah.com/index.php or call (239) 481-4849.

Boo at the Zoo: (Naples)Oct 23. Kids can Trick or treat throughout the Zoo and join in a fun costume contest. 1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd, Naples. Further info 239 262-5409.

summer Jazz on the Gulf: (Naples)Sept 18. Smooth sounds of jazz by Denise Moore and Then Some at Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, 851 Gulfshore Blvd N. For information 239 261-2222.

Mercato First Friday Concert: Naples)Sept 3, 6-9pm. Live music

Historic Palm Cottage & Norris Gardens: (Naples)Sept/Oct, Tues-Sat 1-4pm. (239) 261-8164.

Historic old Naples Walking Tours: (Naples)Sept/Oct, Wednesdays 10am, Reservations Required. Walk along and listen to the history of Naples in the lat 19th century. www.napleshistoricalsociety.org/third-street.htm.

Third street Farmers Market: (Naples)Saturday’s in Sept/Oct 7:30am–11:30am. Located 1220 3rd St S. – parking behind Tommy Bahama’s. 239-434-6533.

Thursdays on Third (Naples)Sept 16 and Oct 21, 7-10pm. Music and entertainment in the courtyards and plazas of Third St Philharmonic Center: (Naples) 5833 Pelican Bay. For more information and current shows visit www.philtickets.org/tickets/index.aspx or call (239) 597-1900.

MeDICAl (Lee & Collier Counties):Gulf Coast Hospital - Ft. Myers .............768-5000Lee Memorial Hospital - Ft. Myers..........332-1111North Collier Hospital (NCH)Downtown Naples .................................552-7000North Collier Hospital (NCH)North Naples .........................................436-5000Poison Control Center ...................800-282-3171NeWsPAPerBonita Banner ....................................... 765-0110Coconut Point Press .............................777-0473Ft. Myers News Press ...........................335-0233Naples Daily News ...............................992-3609 PuBlIC sCHools (Lee County):Edison Community College ...........800 -749-2322Florida Gulf Coast University ..........800-590-3428School District of Lee County ................ 334-1102reAl esTATe serVICesMichael Burke P.A., Keller Williams Elite Realty...............................................................498-7600Homestead Exemption - Lee County.....339-6120Property Appraiser - Lee County ...........339-6100soCIAl seCurITY ......................800-772-1213souTHWesT FlorIDA INT’l AIrPorT...............................................................590-4800

TrANsPorTATIoNAirport Shuttle Service ..........................216-7777Greyhound ............................................ 334-1011Lee County Bus Transit ........................533-8726u.s. PosTAl serVICeLee & Collier Counties ....................800-275-8777uTIlITIes (Lee County):Embarq ..........................................866-304-6820eleCTrICFlorida Power and Light..................800-262-1322FlorIDA reCYClING & WAsTe ......332-8500GAs serVICe - Teco (Peoples Gas)........................................................877-932-6747solID WAsTe - Lee County ...............338-3302TelePHoNe Sprint (Bonita) ................................800-699-0728Sprint (Lee County) .......................800-339-1811TV CABleComcast ........................................800-432-4770Time Warner .........................................574-2020WATer/seWerBonita Springs ...................................... 992-0711Unincorporated Lee County ...........800-485-0214VeTerINArIANsFlorida Veterinary 24-Hour Emergency........................................................239-992-8878


Featured ColumnistThis column is produced by the Financial Planning Association andprovided by Al Procaccino, a member of FPA and Certified FinancialPlanner with Castle Financial.

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A Family Mission Statement Can Help Any Family Manage Assets, Philanthropy and Direction

A family doesn’t need a surname like Vanderbilt to benefit from a family mission statement. A mission statement is a collaborative document created by one or more generations of family so standards and goals can be set for the handling of all family assets, including businesses and philanthropy in particular. While mission statements aren’t legal documents – in fact, many are done both in written form and on videotape as a companion to legal wills and directives -- their purpose is to make a record of the family’s values, goals and aspirations and how those sentiments should drive future decisions about family wealth management, business succession plans and charitable pursuits. Multi-national companies have mission statements. Non-profit corporations have mission statements. A mission statement for your family, helps identify and clarify specific values and goals, facilitates group decisions, instills confidence and encourages unity. It should also identify family leadership who will work with other relatives in implementing those goals. While the end product should produce a document built from discussion, argument and consensus, it’s not so much about the piece of paper as the process. Many families start the process as a way to build consensus about long-term financial, business, estate and philanthropic goals, but the conversation can take twists and turns that don’t directly involve the family money. In this process, a family can identify the strengths, weaknesses and unearthed priorities of all family members and might reveal leadership few had expected. Trained financial advisors including financial planners, tax experts and estate attorneys, can help explain the process and set an agenda for families to follow in creating the mission statement. While some extended families may elect to bring in a facilitator to guide their process, there are generally four components to a family mission statement – estate issues, philanthropy, business planning and family

dynamics in general. It also helps to start with some questions that can guide the discussion. Many experts start with questions that first get family members talking about their relationships and how their dynamics work, and then move into business and money matters. What’s most important about our family? What do you think our goals should be? When do you feel most connected to the rest of us? How should we relate to one another? What are our strengths as a family? Where do you think we’ll be as individuals in 5, 10 and 15 years? In order, what are the five things you value most in life? How should we behave toward each other? How should we take care of relatives who are or become sick or disabled? How should we resolve our disputes? How important is the family business to you? What should we be doing differently with our family money as well as our assets inside the business? What professionals or structures should we bring in to help us manage our wealth? What’s the best way for us to be building our wealth? What do you think the role of our family should be in helping the community? What should we be doing individually and as a family with regard to philanthropy? Structurally, the written mission statement can be whatever you agree it should be – most experts say it should be no more than a paragraph long, but that’s a guideline, not a rule. It is also very important to focus on the positive, meaning what you want to accomplish and achieve as a family, as opposed to want you want to avoid. And it needn’t be set in stone – a family should

have a meeting every year or two to revise or approve its mission. The family mission statement helps a family establish its identity and the variety of voices within, and those voices may be subject to change over time. The family mission statement is a living, breathing document that can evolve over time. In today’s fast paced world, it is easy to get caught up in the here and now, a family mission statement can help you stay true to your family’s values. As a result, families may not feel the pressure to keep up with the Joneses because their mission statement helps achieve balance. It is also very important to focus on the positive, meaning what we want to accomplish and achieve as a family, as opposed to want we want to avoid. The right mission statement can help reset goals and diffuse tensions later. It can also be used to moderate discussions that inevitably happen after major changes within the family – death, divorce or happily, an increase in the number of heirs and participants. As for the age of the participants, it can start in very basic form with younger children and the process can mature as they age. It’s actually a good idea to bring young members into a customized version of the process for youngsters so they can comfortably adjust to working as adults with the older members of the family. For additional resources on how to create a family mission statement, please consider utilizing any of these websites http://www.nightingale.com/mission_select.aspx?from=homepage&element=missiontitle http://www.ehow.com/how_2043790_write-family-mission-statement.html http://www.franklincovey.com/msb/ For more information of a free consultation please call (239) 947-9255.

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Better Golf with “The Golf Doctor”mike calbot is the Director of Instructionat Old Corkscrew Golf Club, Estero, FL.

Mike Calbot International Golf Studio & Triad Golf Schoolswww.golfdoctorusa.com . 239-482-0900

How To Become A Great Putter!

When golfers have days where they feel like they have lost their swing did they actually loose their swing? Usually is the tempo that changes, causing the loss of timing and swing techniques. Golfers have some days where they are swinging with 70 to 75% effort and getting 100% result where the ball is going the proper personal distances and the quality of the shot solid with the proper flight and spin. This is the day you wish to have every day, or in competition. Well golfer’s good news, you can learn to improve your tempo with several drills. The first are called line drills, this is where you set up a line of golf balls say six to ten balls in a row (usually on a tee) running perpendicular to your target. Next take a seven or six iron and hit the balls with half speed and effort. try to hit these balls with very little time in between each swing not giving you too much time to think but to feel the tempo needed to make the shot. You will soon develop a rhythm and you will start to be able to swing faster and slower and still hit the ball solid and under control. This may take around 75 to 100 balls but you will really get your grove going. the next drill is to once again set up another line of balls and hit the balls with your feet only three to four inches apart and you must say to yourself, turn and return! this drill will force you to keep your balance. the next is to set up a row of balls and try hitting some balls one handed first your left then your right. One key is to keep a light grip pressure with all drills. I guarantee if you do the drills or just the ones you can fit in they will improve your tempo. every golfer knows that the putter is the most used club in their bag during a round of golf and for most golfers, the least used in practice sessions. the reason the average golfer places more of an emphasis on the other clubs is because they feel that putting does not take the same coordination and physical skills that the full swing demands.Average golfers can dramatically lower their scores by starting with becoming a better putter. What is a good putter? A golfer who consistently during an 18 hole round has an average of 25 to 28 putts. In order to achieve any goal you must have a plan. We will call this “planned progressive practice”. I would like you to start first by keeping stats on your putting over the next 10 rounds of golf. this takes a little more time than one might think but is crucial to finding out exactly just what type of practice program would be right for you. Most golfers when I ask them to keep their putting stats only give me the number of putts during the round. What is important is how many putts are missed inside 10 feet and the dimensions of that miss, such as short left, long right, dead center short, lip outs and how many breaking putts are missed and where, along with how many down hill verses up hill putts. Another important

factor is which green speeds do you putt best on and what speed of greens you will play on average. This green speed is called the “stemp reading” which you can find by asking the golf professionals in the golf shop. Now we can organize a planned “progressive practice program”. In brief let’s start with lag putting, start 30 feet from the hole with 6 balls. place a tee in the ground to mark your starting spot, taking your time try to lag all 6 balls to the hole but you must try to go past the hole but no more than 12 inches. You must find four angles giving you left to right and right to left, down hill and up hill situation shots. Your goal to get all balls to or just past the hole leaving no putt short. If you leave a putt short do it all again as a penalty for poor practice. Now for the short putts, go only 2 feet from the hole mark your position from the hole and try to make 18 in a row. Stay there until you do. these are two practice drills of about 20 that I use to build golfers to become good putters.

More You know you’re

a Floridian if....You know the four seasons really are: •Hurricane season, love bug season, tourist season and summer.

Anything under 70 degrees is chilly. •You’ve driven through Yeehaw Junction. •You’ve worn shorts and used the A/C on •Christmas and New Year’s.

You can pronounce Okeechobee, •Kissimmee , Withlacoochee , Thonotosassa and Micanopy.

A good parking place has nothing to •do with distance from the store, but everything to do with shade.

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