TIPS FOR BUYING A HOME IN A DOWN MARKET

The subprime mortgage problem has scared a lot of people away from the housing market. However, the news isn’t all bad. The current market decline has dropped prices and made housing affordable to many fiscally responsible renters who never considered home ownership to be an option. Here are recommended steps for buyers to take advantage of this market downturn. Be aware of extraneous expenses including property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, standard maintenance, cost of utilities, and HOA fees or equity dues. Ask about current and upcoming special assessments. Decide how much you have left to spend on a mortgage, all closing costs, a down payment amount, paying down existing debts, and check on your credit records before applying in case there are errors to correct. Remember too that if you are selling and buying, while you may get a lower price than you want for your home, you will also get a low price for the home you buy. As a Realtor and a Mortgage Broker, your blog manager, Marilyn Farber Jacobs can assist you with all of these issues, and find you “the home of your dreams,” according to your criteria. Call 561-988-0070 or email marilynfjacobs@gmail.com. If you wish to receive all new properties that become available, go to http://www.FLWaterfrontCondos.com, register and list criteria for a condo, house or townhouse. Join the many buyers who regularly receive listings now. Perhaps your NEXT home will appear before your eyes, and Marilyn will be most happy to show you that home.

HEADS UP: OKEECHOBEE BOULEVARD TO BE WIDENED

Over the next two years, Okeechobee Boulevard will be widened from Royal Palm Beach High School to east of the turnpike. The Florida DOT will fund $17-MM of the $30-MM cost and West Palm Beach is contributing $134,640.

SUBMIT YOUR WORKS OF ART INSPIRED BY FLORA, FAUNA AND NATURAL PLACES IN THE COUNTY

"Local Treasures” is the theme for the 2008 summer/fall exhibit being shown from May 7^th to September 24^th with works of art being featured in public buildings, parks and plazas. IF you have talent, submit your works, reflecting the theme. For details – click on “Calls to Artists” or mail a self-addressed stamped envelope to Palm Beach County Art in Public Places, 2633 Vista Parkway, West Palm Beach FL 33422. Deadline for submission of photo of item is April 18^th.

PALM BEACH BOAT SHOW FEATURED MORE THAN $350mm worth of MEGA-YACHTS

Hosted by Palm Beach County’s marine industry, the 23rd Annual 4-day event was held last week in downtown West Palm Beach. This Boat Show was one of the top 10 of its kind in the US. More than 900 boats, from inflatables to spectacular super yachts, with fishing clinics for adults and children, fashion shoes and family-fun entertainment encompassed more than a million sq ft of exhibit space on land at the Palm Beach County Convention Center and in water at the ICW along Flagler drive (between Bayan and Fern Streets). Next area boat show will be in Ft. Lauderdale next October.

BARRETT-JACKSON CAR AUCTION RELFECTS ECONOMY

While stating that individuals car sales could set world sales records, a Barrett-Jackson VP stated that the current auction is an all no-reserve event, which is a direct reflection of the marketplace, with some car collectors wanting to liquidate their four-wheeled assets, particularly if they have taken out a 2nd mortgage and their home's value has dropped. Late '50's and '60's big cars have rapidly appreciated. For sale is a restored 1911 Model T Roadster (pictured here), one of the 520 cars up for bid. A 2006 baby-blue Lamborghini with 17,000 miles on the odometer is up for auction at $180,000. When new it cost $246,000. On Sunday, after several days of auctioning, the automobilia auction will start at 10:30 am and a car auction from 10 am to 9 pm. Click here for more information.

TRANSFER YOUR CELLPHONE WITHOUT HIGH FEES BEFORE CONTRACT TERMINATES

Go to www.celltradeusa.com or www.cellswapper.com. You pay about $20 and the person who adopts your phone gets a short contract without an activation fee. Contact your carrier first for approval, and if you want to keep your old number, you’ll have to arrange that as well.

ECONOMISTS: REBOUND BY MID-2009

The 2008 fiscal stimulus package, according to Lawrence Yun, NAR Chief Economist, should provide a much needed boost to the real estate market. Yun says that the tax rebate is needed to compensate for very high oil prices and the falling stock market. The former, he says, is caused in part by the US having a higher inflation rate than other countries which causes a weaker dollar. When oil prices rise, that fills the coffers of Russia, Venezuel, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and Iran, transferring money from a democratic country to a non-democratic country. A higher loan limit in Los Angeles, Orange and San Franciso counties, from $417,00 to $729,000 will give the housing market a lift in those areas. Inventories go down and home prices strengthen as sales rise. Lawrence Yun received his undergraduate degree from Purdue University and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Maryland at College Park. He is Managing Diretor of Quantitative research at the National Association of Realtors where he manages the Statistics and Forecasting Groups of the Research Division. Yun writes columns on real estate market trends, creates NAR’s forecasts and participates on many economic forecasting panels, including Blue Chip and Harvard University Industrial Economist Council. Though the economy for the entire nation is sluggish now, many economists are expecting a rebound by the second half of next year.

WANT TO PAY OFF YOUR MORTGAGE AND STAY IN YOUR HOME or CONDO?

In response to several questions from couples and individuals about how to stay in your permanent residence AND lower your budget by paying off your mortgage(s) without making additional monthly payouts, you may be eligible for a reverse mortgage even if you still owe money on a first or second mortgage. In fact, many seniors get a reverse mortgage to pay off mortgages. You need to be age 62 or older. There are NO INCOME OR MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS TO QUALIFY. No change of title, no taxes on proceeds, no repayment for as long as you live and reside in the house, until it is sold. When sold, you or your heirs receive any appreciation up from the value at the time of a reverse mortgage. WITH THE HOUSING MARKET PRICES LOW RIGHT NOW, appreciation is a strong possibility in years to come. If the value of the house declines, you do not have to pay up the difference. In order to qualify for a U.S. Government-insured reverse mortgage, you must receive reverse mortgage counseling from a counseling agency that is approved and certified by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The counseling is a free safeguard for you and your family, to make sure that you completely understand what a Reverse Mortgage is, and what the process of obtaining a Reverse Mortgage is before you apply for one. Information about reverse mortgages. The Jumbo loans have been discontinued for now. The highest reverse mortgage amount is the lending limit in the county which is $369,700 but soon to be $417,000. Call Marilyn Jacobs, a Lic. Mortgage Broker, for a confidential appointment - 561-988-0070.

FORBES RECOGNIZES PALM BEACH COUNTY IN TOP TEN UP-AND-COMING TECH CITIES

“With Scripps Florida and the Max Planck Society both establishing world-class research facilities here, we are building the foundation for a knowledge-based economy.” Palm Beach County is recognized as a top pick for “Up-and-Coming Tech Cities,” and in scientific growth. Boca Raton is attracting firms, from biopharmaceuticals to stem cell research and storage, due to its solid business environment. Forbes list is called the TOP TEN HOTBEDS OF TOMORROW’S TECHNOLOGY. The survey considered specific pockets of science growth areas with “promising frontiers of innovation.” Forbes.com says that Palm Beach County is “becoming a haven for cutting-edge biotech and life science research.” More than 140 companies in the county are focused on discovery and advancement of drugs and pharmaceuticals, medical devices and equipment, research and testing. With strong collaborations among universities and pro-active assistance programs throughout the county, and philanthropic dollars, the area is thriving. Additional information can be found at www.bdb.org, the official public/private economic development organization for Palm Beach County and Enterprise Florida, a non-profit corporation founded in 1982 to attract and retain new industry, business investment, high quality jobs and workforce development. See Forbes says county number three in US.

NEW IRS RULING FOR VACATION HOME 1031’s

• 24 month holding period
• for each 12 month period you must have rented vacation home for at least 14 days at fair market rent
• for each 12 month period owner can only use property for the greater of 14 days or 10% of the days rented.
• Days that relatives use the unit will count against you… unless they pay fair market rent
• You are allowed a reasonable number of “maintenance days” to care for the unit (not defined by IRS)

SUGGESTIONS:

· Tighten up record keeping and tax reporting

· Be serious in rental attempts

· Charge family members the going rental rate when they use it

Keep detailed records of dates you used the unit and what you did – and describe maintenance done for “maintenance days”

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MORTGAGE PRE-APPROVAL AND MORTGAGE PRE-QUALIFICATION?

Verification and Documentation explain the difference. Pre-Qualification is based on information provided by the buyer whereas Pre-Approval is given after receipt of copies of bank account statements, income proof (pay stubs) and income tax returns; other information may be requested as well. Neither are considered a mortgage commitment, but the more detailed Pre-Approval is preferred by sellers. Pre-Qualification requires the borrowers name, address, phone number, date of birth and social security number with permission to do a credit check. Questions may be asked about annual income and what down payment the borrower can make. A letter is issued with an estimate of the amount of a mortgage for which the borrower can be approved, based on documentation verification, which may be described in the letter. The letter will also include a disclaimer, e.g., “subject to verification of employment (2 years of work history) / assets / credit review / charge card statements / mortgage underwriting guidelines” and the prevailing interest rate, which can be “locked in.” This serves temporarily as confirmation to a seller that a buyer appears to be able to afford to purchase their property. Underwriting criteria may include credit scores, work history, verification of income, qualifying income ratios, verification of where down payment will come from (e.g., brokerage or bank account or gift), cash reserves after closing. There may be information that has a negative impact on mortgage approval, including a borrowed down payment, inconsistent work history, unreported “cash” income, not enough assets for closing costs, and other issues.

INVESTORS: A GREAT TIME TO BUY!

With condo inventory SOARING here in Florida In the last 20 months, you may be able to buy RIGHT NOW at the lowest price you will see in a long time to come

• $187,000 is median price for a Florida condo (per NAR)
• Median price is down 9% from one year ago
• Number of condos sold down 29% from one year ago
• Florida brings in more than 300,000 new residents per year (2^nd only to Texas)

Investors have started to GRAB GOOD DEALS while they can in this buyer’s market. The bad news for sellers means good news and opportunity for savvy buyers. Builders are making contributions to sweeten deals in the Florida condo market. LET MARILYN SHOW YOU THE BEST DEALS AROUND. To compare recent sales, amenities, restrictions and size of complexes go to http://www.FLWaterfrontCondos.com.

WEST PALM BEACH CULTURAL EVENTS

WEST PALM BEACH CULTURAL EVENTS:

http://www.palmbeachculture.com/WestPalmBeach

YOU WALK AWAY... from a mortgage!

The International Herald Tribune’s 2-29-2008 headline “Faced with mortgage default, some U.S. homeowners walk out” will lead you to this site, which results in walking away from a home and mortgage and ceding the home to a bank in foreclosure: http://www.youwalkaway.com/ . The house then becomes the lenders problem, and the former homeowner might be able to rent a property for less than half the cost of their mortgage they left behind. According to the article, while in some states banks have recourse to sue borrowers for their losses, it is usually not done because the process “is costly and “people’s nonhousing wealth tends to be pretty slim”. For a copy of the article, email marilynfjacobs@gmail.com. According to the founder of You Walk Away, which opened for business in January 2008, the company’s services are not for everybody and were meant as a last resort. Those finding themselves having to choose between a car payment and their kids’ health insurance or paying a ballooned mortgage may have an alternative now, and may feel that over the coming years their income will go up and their credit will improve while, in the meantime, they rent instead of owning a home.

OFFICE HOURS EXTENDED FOR HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION, PORTABILITY FILINGS

Gary Nikolits, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser, reminds homeowners that there is less than a month left to file for 2008 homestead exemption and portability benefits and has extended office hours for the next three weeks. Extended hours will be available at the service center on the first floor of the Governmental Center at 301 N. Olive Avenue in West Palm Beach, at 3188 PGA Boulevard in Palm Beach Gardens and 501 So. Congress Avenue in Delray Beach, and 200 Civic Center Way in Royal Palm Beach. These offices will be open from 7:30 am to 6 pm weekdays. Filing deadline for exemptions is Monday, March 3^rd. It is suggested to file as early as possible to avoid long lines. You can file online on the Property Appraiser’s website; go to the Exemption E-File link on the home page and follow the prompts. For more information, call 561-355-2866.

HERE is your opportunity for international exposure of your work!

POETRY PROTOCOL, Syndicate is currently accepting poetry for it's International Poetry Quarterly. You also have the opportunity to submit your work for the '10TH ANNUAL MARILYN FARBER JACOBS POETRY AWARD' Contest! Grand prize: ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS!! Second Place: $50; Honorable Mention Certificates Awarded. SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: Theme: open - any style or genre of poetry; 20 lines or less; typed or printed, double spaced; deadline is March 18, 2008; entry fee: $5 for unlimited poem entries. Please make check out to: North Tulsa Literary Guild, Inc. and mail to North Tulsa Literary Guild, P.O. Box 6221, Tulsa, OK 74148-0221. ANYONE CAN ENTER!

LINK TO LOWEST LOCAL GAS PRICES

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/custom/consumer/sfl-gasprices-htmlpage,0,826131.htmlpage

DON’T MISS AMERICA’s INTERNATIONAL FINE ART & ANTIQUE FAIR

Starting with an invitation-only event on January 31^st, and running through February 10^th, the show being held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Boulevard in downtown Palm Beach, will feature fine art, antiques and estate and couture jewelry. Works of art from more than 80 dealers from around the world will be shown. Artwork will include Greek, Roman and Egyptian; Asian; Old Master paintings and Sculpture; arms and armor; American and European 19^th and early 20^th C. fine art and antiques; 18^th-20^th C. furniture,; jewelry and objet d’art; pre-Columbian and tribal art; classic modern and contemporary art. To buy tickets or for more information, call (866) 802-8337, or visit www.palmbeachfair.com

DON’T MISS AMERICA’s INTERNATIONAL FINE ART & ANTIQUE FAIR

Starting with an invitation-only event on January 31^st, and running through February 10^th, the show being held at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Boulevard in downtown Palm Beach, will feature fine art, antiques and estate and couture jewelry. Works of art from more than 80 dealers from around the world will be shown. Artwork will include Greek, Roman and Egyptian; Asian; Old Master paintings and Sculpture; arms and armor; American and European 19^th and early 20^th C. fine art and antiques; 18^th-20^th C. furniture,; jewelry and objet d’art; pre-Columbian and tribal art; classic modern and contemporary art. To buy tickets or for more information, call (866) 802-8337, or visit www.palmbeachfair.com

BEGONIAS… WORKSHOP WILL EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE

“The Beguiling Begonias Workshop” will be held Saturday, February 9^th from 9 am to noon in the Mounts Botanical Garden auditorium, located at 559 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. Begonias are perennial landscape plants that grow well in Florida. See slides and live plants to learn about the various types of rhizomatous, cane and other begonias, which will thrive in your garden. Each attendee will learn how to propagate these begonias and will pot up a tray of assorted cuttings to take home. Admission price is $40 for members, $50 for non-members – Admission price includes potting materials and begonia cuttings. Workshop will be held in the Garden Pavilion. If you want to expand your begonia collection there will be a selection available for purchase after the workshop. Call Mounts to reserve space. Mounts features plants from 6 continents on 14 acres. For information contact Joy Ford Le at 561-233-1747 or jlford@co.palm-beach.fl.us.

A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM YOUR BLOG MANAGER

“Buyers are coming out of the woodwork,” is what I’m hearing from other real estate agents, and that is indeed true for me as well. I’m working with many buyers on purchasing second homes. Closings are resulting. Some are from the US, and others from countries including Canada, England, and Singapore. I predicted in the past, and reiterate now: “the best buys will be made between now and the early summer… after that the pickings will be left on the market.” Sale prices are on the low side right now, interest rates are low and may go farther down, and there is huge inventory to pick from – A BUYER’S MARKET. Will keep the readership updated in the coming months... Marilyn Farber Jacobs, Realtor, ePro - Lang Realty & Lic. Mortgage Broker - Iberia Mortgage Corp., Lic. Correspondent Lender.

FASTER TRACK NOW FOR WEST PALM BEACH BUILDING PERMITS

City Commissioners in West Palm Beach have made it a policy to issue building permits within certain periods of time, ranging from minor projects (2 business days) to commercial building permits (30 business days). Authorized permits will have to meet thee Florida Building Code4 or city ordinances. A need may arise for more staff. Fees may need to be raised to keep the current level of service and to issue permits faster. Local architects and contractors say the city’s construction services department, which issues the permits, is overly zealous in its plan reviews, leading to unreasonable delays that are far worse than in other jurisdictions.

WHAT THE POLITICIANS ARE WORKING ON…. Maybe

… I did predict there would be big changes what with a national election looming up…

• A one-time $100-BB tax rebate and tax incentives for employers to hire more workers
• Temporary cut in corporate income taxes
• Emergency assistance for owners who need extra money to help with high heating bills this winter
• Proposals to expand loan modifications and payment relief for borrowers heading for serious delinquency or foreclosure
• Widening “rate freeze” mortgage relief programs beyond just sub-prime borrowers to ALL borrowers, including those with prime credit, who find themselves in trouble on their mortgages
• $MM’s for new assistance for local nonprofit counseling groups who reach out and guide mortgage borrowers in danger of losing their homes
• Federal Tax Code amendment allowing state & local housing agencies to issue tax-exempt bonds to refinance loans of troubled homeowners (not just assisting new home purchasers) at low, fixed rates

Moratorium on foreclosures nationwide and legislative amendment allowing bankruptcy court judges to unilaterally reduce homeowners’ mortgage debts to lenders… BUT there is non-acceptance for these two issues from bankers and the mortgage industry

WINTER EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL OPENS THIS WEEK

The oldest and longest-running equestrian competition starts Wednesday, at the age of 29, and there will be about 2,000 new seats, new pathways, new bathrooms and new events scheduled. The show grounds have been renovated, and the schedule has been made two weeks long, totaling 12 weeks. Grass has been replaced with a mixture of sand and fibres that lasts longer and is easier on the horses’ legs and hooves. New golf cart tracks are being installed around the grounds to separate horses and carts. A new outdoor restaurant will open, and there will be directory maps of the grounds. Opening and closing parties are planned and there will be some nighttime events. Traditionally, Sunday afternoon is “the big day”. 2,600 requests for the 2,800 available stalls have been filled.

USED-HOME SALES RISE IN NOVEMBER

Chief Economist for National Association of Realtors, Lawrence Yun, said the market appears to be stabilizing. He noted mortgage interest rates are near historic lows, decelerating price declines, and a modest reduction in the number of homes on the market. NAR President Richard Gaylord said that Congress should expand its efforts to provide affordable finances and suggested raising the limit on conforming loans to help credit-worthy buyers in hard-hit regions such as FL and CA by greatly increasing access to low-interest-rate mortgages. Perhaps now we begin to see a light at the end of the tunnel in the housing market. Editor’s note: Perhaps the best buys will be made between now and early summer, and then “only the pickings” will be left in market inventory. With a national election coming up, perhaps the economy WILL improve and right now the perception is that the economy depends on the rise and fall of home sales across the country.

A WAY TO GET THROUGH AIRPORT SECURITY FAST

“Clear” is the fast pass for airport security. Clear members are pre-screened and provided with a high-tech card that allows them to access designated airport security fast lanes nationwide. Clear members pass through airport security faster, with more predictability and less hassle. Clear's first year price is $99.95. You can lock-in this rate by purchasing a two-year membership for $199.90 or three years for $299.85. For more information, go to http://www.flyclear.com/about/

CONVENTION CENTER ICONIC BRANDING IMAGE COMING

Barbara Grygutis Sculpture LLC of Tucson AZ plans to create a “Wave” to make a striking presence both day and night to enhance visibility of the 350,000 sq ft Palm Beach County Convention Center as a gateway feature to Palm Beach County. Completed in January 2004 at a cost of $83-MM, situatied near the Palm Beach International Airport, I-95 and beautiful beaches, the Center is in a 3-mile area offering 3000 guest rooms. It is a prime location for conventions, trade shows, meetings and social events. The Grygutis firm has completed 30 public art and sculpture projects in the US and has received many awards. The $625,000 public art lighting project for the exterior of the Convention Center in West Palm Beach will be completed in 12 months. The 202 Recreational and Cultural Facilities Bond issue is funding $375,000 and the Convention Center capital project budget is funding $250,000. Barbara Grygutis Sculpture LLC of Tucson AZ plans to create a “Wave” to make a striking presence both day and night to enhance visibility of the Center as a gateway feature to Palm Beach County. The firm has completed 30 public art and sculpture projects in the US and has received many awards for her work. The Convention Center is located at 650 Okeechobee Boulevard in West Palm Beach, 561-366-3000. Events coming up include the America’s International Fine Art & Antique Fair, Feb. 1-10 and the Palm Beach Jewelry, Art & Antique Show 2008 from Feb 15-19, 2008. For more information!

A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS GIFT IN HONOR OF YOUR FRIEND OR RELATIVE

Luv-A-Pet is one of the organizations that lost county funding this year, and they need help from the public. There is a very touching story in the current Town-Crier Online (http://www.thecrier.co) of a Chichuahua who needs surgery that they are helping. On Saturdays and Sundays, Debbie Shields, a member of the pet rescue organization, brings Gemma to the Royal Palm Beach PetSmart. Take the kids there and give Gemma some loving attention. And, leave a donation in honor of the kids, your Mom, your spouse, your own pooch or kitty. That is in keeping with the “giving” part of the Christmas holiday. Make it a better year for another creature who is in distress.

MOST EXPENSIVE WEST PALM BEACH CONDO IS AT ONE WATERMARK ON THE ICW

A 4 bedroom, 4 ½ bath end unit with 5242 living sq ft, facing northeast on the 7^th floor is listed for $5,950,000, on the market 44 days. Furnished turnkey, there are magnificent ocean, intracoastal and city views. Living Room is 21’ x19’; Kitchen is 12’ x 10’; Forman Dining Room is 15’ x 12’; eat-in-area is 12’ x 11’. Master bedroom is 22’ x 17’. Built in 2003. Private docks are available with water, sewer and pump. Leasing out is okay; up to 2 pets. Satellite dish. Windows are solar tinted. Building features a pool, lobby, elevator, exercise room, community room and business center. Patio is covered. Downtown Palm Beach is minutes away. If this lifestyle would fit you, let Realtor, Marilyn Jacobs, show you these beautiful living quarters. The views will just astound you! Call Marilyn at 561-988-0070.

ISRAELI SECURITIES APPROVED AS COUNTY INVESTMENT

The County Commissioners amended the county investment policy so that up to 1% of it’s $1.7BB portfolio can be invested in State of Israel securities, or a maximum of $17MM. Included can be bonds, notes or instruments backed by the full faith and credit of the State of Israel, if rated “A” or higher by Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s ratings services. They must also have a maturity of 2 years or less. The Development Corporation for Israel may act as an authorized broker/dealer for securities backed by the State of Israel only. Backed strongly by Commissioner Burt Aronson, whose Commission District 5 is heavily populated by Jewish families, he pointed out that “Israel has not defaulted on a bond in its 50-year history as a nation." The state of Florida holds at least $230MM in securities issued by the State of Israel and has been an investor for a long time. Governor Charlie Crist and Senator Ted Deutch signed legislation earlier this year called, “Protecting Florida’s Investments Act,” so as not to link public investments with “rogue” nations.

AGREEMENT NEAR TO FREEZE MORTGAGE RATES FOR SOME

A new program aimed at homeowners who have steady incomes and relatively clean repayment histories, who can afford the lower introductory mortgage rates they have now, but cannot afford the higher adjusted rates, may freeze their current rates temporarily. While some government regulators are calling for a 5-7 year freeze, investors want 1-2 year freezes. Two million sub prime mortgage holders, offered to borrowers with spotty credit histories, are scheduled to reset to much higher levels by the end of 2008, pushing payments up by $350/month and more. When enacted, this may start to relieve the worst housing slump in many years. Also being discussed is a program to create more affordable loans to homeowners who would like to refinance mortgages with lower payments. Expansion of FHA loan availability and boosting government oversight of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are being discussed as well. One trigger for these moves is fear of a full-blown recession if nothing is done to alleviate the current problems for many homeowners. This news is from the Florida Association of Realtors.

1920's Mizneresque Property for Sale in Lantana

Pecky cypress ceilings… hardwood floors… beams… archways… fireplaces… iron grillework… are typical features found in 1920’s Spanish mansions, including a 1920’s early Mizneresque mission-Mediterranean home, ”Captain’s House,” on a dead end with 75’ of picturesque intracoastal waterway frontage in Lantana. The property is for sale for $2.45-MM. The main house and guest apartment, including five bedrooms, 5 baths and 2 kitchens, can be purchased separately for $1,999-MM and the adjoining properties for $455,000. The 2-story vaulted Great Room features the pecky-cypress ceilings, newly refinished red-oak floors and massive fireplace. The room is flanked on two sides by twin enclosed loggias with arched windows and has French Doors and the original 8” sq tile floors, similar to those manufactured by Addison Mizner, famous society architect. The dining loggia was the original entry; the other loggia, formerly a screened porch, has been closed in and is setup as a music room. “Eyebrow” windows are featured. The main door was milled and shipped in the 1920’s. The kitchen has reconditioned vintage appliances. The fireplace has applied masonry that looks like stone. Original antique sconces and massive metalwork chandeliers, as well as a buggy under the staircase are included. Kitchen cabinets are made of hardwood, but facings are built of cypress beadboard from old storm shutters from a 1926 house across the street. Shower rods are brass, curtain hooks are stainless steel, faucets are high-end reproductions. It includes a separate 1930’s-era duplex with two 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartments, and 1-bedroom, 1-bath 1940’s era cottage with Spanish tile floors and leaded-glass windows and runs along Lake Worth Avenue to South Lake Drive. These units include Dade County pine, Spanish tile and a shared fireplace. Enter the main residence through a walled courtyard. A big cement pond was dug up, landscaped and made into a koi pond with a brass Cupid fountain. Careful restoration has been done to a scrolled metal gate and metalwork on the grounds. Marilyn will be happy to show you this beautifully restored 1920’s Spanish property.

THINKING ABOUT A NEW LIFESTYLE IN A POSH GATED COUNTRY CLUB?

Life is GOOD at The Boca Raton Polo Club, a posh, busy, active environment with 2 championship golf courses, active tennis program, swimming, star-studded events, clubs with many interests, special interests including a singles group and children’s activity center and a world-class spa. Come and see this elegantly updated easy-to-manage 2000 sq ft lakefront home with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths. Lush tropical landscaping. Walk to community pool. Price lowered to $699,000 (original price: $899,000!). Friendly community. Mandatory membership dues and fees. For more details call agent/owner Marilyn Farber Jacobs at 561-302-3388 or email marilynfjacobs@gmail.com for more information. Come and see the lifestyle… you owe it to yourself… see the some of the very best that life has to offer… to live in tasteful surroundings that are easy to manage...

VIRTUAL TOUR

STADIUM JUMPING AND WELLINGTON EQUESTRIAN PARTNERS FORM PACT AND HORSE SHOWS STAY AT CURRENT LOCATION

Both Stadium Jumping and Wellington Equestrian Partners will act together as one entity with control over the grounds, dates, management and infrastructure of horse shows. Therefore, Stadium Jumping will not move The National Horse Show or Winter Equestrian Festival to 179 acres in the Wellington Preserve when it’s lease on the current site runs out next year but rather stay at the current location for the foreseeable future. Redesigns and improvements have already been done and more will come. Wellington Equestrian Partners recently purchased 150 acres in and around the current site for $135-MM, including the old Palm Beach Polo Stadium and its surrounding grounds. Now the ability to create a facility that matches European venues like Aachen, Germany, the mecca of horse sports, is possible. It is now named the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. The National Horse Show is scheduled for December 5-9 and the Winter Equestrian Festival from January 30 to March 23^rd, in Wellington.

23-STORY WESTIN HOTEL COMING TO WEST PALM BEACH

Under discussion since 2003 (when the Palm Beach County Convention Center was built), final city approval was given, with final county approval in April, for construction of a world-class Westin Hotel with more than 100 condo units and a 2500+ spaces adjacent city-owned parking garage with 7 levels above ground and one below (bottom and first level reserved for hotel guests and condo residents), construction will being next April. It will be located with fronting on Okeechobee Boulevard and Florida Avenue. 400 rooms and 104 condos will be built. The property is leased from the county for 99 years by Ocean Properties, which must then buy the hotel and land at fair market value after the 99-year lease ends. The County will also build a $2.6-MM tunnel permitting valets to shuttle autos from the convention center’s Okeechobee Blvd entrance to the parking garage and will maintain the tunnel. The County may reserve 75% of the hotel’s inventory 18-months out, and the maximum room rate can be no higher than the hotel’s published corporate rate, plus a maximum 6% annual increase. The Count cannot subsidize another hotel within 5 miles except for an area around the Palm Beach International Airport. IN August 2006 the County approved a one-cent increase in tourism bed tax to fund the County’s majority portion of the garage cost; Ocean Properties will fund the balance.

ROSES WORKSHOP BEING GIVEN AT MOUNTS

A 2-part workshop designed to take the mystery out of growing roses in South Florida will be held from 9 am to 1 pm on November 10th and 17th at the Mounts Botanical Garden, 559 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. Dubbed "How to Make Everything Come Up Roses", courses will teach about types of roses, selecting proper site, planting, staking, irrigating, fertiilizing, spraying and pruning roses. Mounts members pay $45; nonmembers pay $55. Included is the book, Growing Rose in South Florida. Call 233-1757 to register and visit www.Mounts.org.

UNDERSTANDING IRAN’S THREAT

Mark your calendar page for Sunday, December 2^nd, from 12:30 – 5 pm to head for the Marriott Hotel City Place, 1001 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach and learn all about Iran’s threat. An interesting variety of speakers will be featured, including Jim Woolsey, former Director of the CIA and Co-Chair of the US Committee on Present Danger and Congressman Ron Klein (D-Florida), Vice-Chair of the Subcommittee on Middle East, U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs. We will learn about Iran from an insider, Amir Abbas Fakhravar, Iranian Student Leader and former Prisoner of the Iranian regime. We will get other views from Philippe Vinogradoff, Consul General of France in Florida, and Victor Comras, former United Nations Security Council monitor of Anti-Terrorist Sanctions and a leading expert on international law and terrorism financing. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served. Sponsors are the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County in conjunction with the World Affairs Council of the Florida Palm Beaches and other local organizations. Please make out checks for $18 (not tax deductible) to Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and mail to 4601 Community Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33417, Attn: JCRC. You can register online at JewishPalmBeach.org, or RSVP to Mary Greco at 561-242-6671 or email jcrc@jewishpalmbeach.org. Co-sponsors include Anti-Defamation League, B’nai B’rith International, Christ Fellowship, Covenant Centre International, Florida Security Council, National Council of Jewish Women and Palm Beach County Board of Rabbis. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to become more aware of Iran’s threat.

ROTARIES PLAN ZOO EVENT

Various Palm Beach County, Palm Beach and West Palm Beach Rotaries, along with other Rotary groups, plan a season kickoff November 8^th at 7 pm, “Adventure at the Palm Beach Zoo. Music, dancing and entertainment, a barbecue and beverages are offered for the $45 per person admission price. Reserve by this Thursday and please wear safari and jungle prints. For more information, call 561-653-3973.

NATIONAL TRUST HISTORIC HOTELS WELCOMES BRAZILIAN COURT IN PALM BEACH

Citing its history and ambiance, the Brazilian Court, a condominium-hotel that is a favorite Palm Beach landmark, has joined the National Trust Historic Hotels of America, under the auspices of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. There are 200 hotels and resorts in the US that the organization acknowledges for preserving and maintaining historic integrity, architecture and ambience. Built in 1926, and designed by Rosario Candela (who built luxurious Manhattan apartments) the hotel’s south wing was added by Maurice Fatio and William Treanor in 1936. Multi-million dollar improvements were made, starting in 2002 and are now in the final phase. A central see-through lushly landscaped courtyard links the marbled lobby on Australian Avenue with an arched portico on Brazilian Avenue. A barrel-tile roof is accented with cantilevered wrought-iron balconies. The interior “speaks of Provence,” and complements the hotel’s Tuscan-villa roots. Stars who stayed there include Gary Cooper, Greta Garbo, Tommy Lee Jones and designer Bob Mackie and Marjorie Merriweather Post. Featured in the hotel are Café Boulud and the Frederic Fekkai Salon and Spa.

YOUR RENTAL CAR MAY PAY TURNPIKE & BRIDGE TOLLS WITHOUT USING SUNPASS


Customers of Avis, Budget and Hertz will pay daily fees of $2-$2.50 using “Plate-Pass” with charges billed to credit card of renter. “Rent-A-Tollpass” can be used with Dollar and Thrifty for a flat daily fee of $5.95 per rental day or $27.95 weekly with all toll charges included. These agreements are between Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise and American Traffic Solutions and Rent A Toll, Ltd. License plate information will identify the vehicles and electronically collect the toll. In it’s current newsletter, SunPass states that open road tolling will soon be available in 4 turnpike plazas – Lantana, Cypress Creek, Bird Road and Homestead Toll Plaza with plans to add this feature to other turnpike plaza areas. This will entail removal of the concrete islands (barriers, gates and columns) and adding new toll equipment structures and equipment so that cards with SunPass transducers can keep traveling at speeds of 55 mph instead of the current designated speed limit of 25 mph. Go to http://www.sunpass.com/ to update your license plate, check account balance, replenish your account, update your contact info and answer survey questions. Did you know that Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise invested $7.5-MM for generators for all service plazas giving full power for 72 hours without refueling, for use during hurricanes, and has external defibrilators available? Construction updates and real-time traffic info is available at http://www.floridasturnpike.com/. Another site for traffic info is http://www.traffic.com/.

WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE…

Alas, all the sand-renourished beach areas in the county have been returned to the ocean by abnormal winds and tides, leaving behind long buried groins, rocks, tree stumps and revetments. Stairs, lifeguard stands and building foundations have also been removed. Nearby parking areas and parks have been flooded. Millions of tons of sand are gone, ensuring death to the off-shore environment. The sand smothers fragile coral reefs and all life that inhabits them, limiting food sources for sports and food fish, interfering with “catches” for the fishermen. According to the NEW YORK TIMES (10-2-07) the world’s polar areas are experiencing and ice melt so vast that predictions are that by 2013 a blue Arctic Ocean will exist. Would you say this is an exercise in futility, and that Mother Nature wins?

NATIONAL HORSE SHOW REMAINS IN WELLINGTON FOR 2007

A just signed Special-Use-Permit will allow the National Horse Show, which runs from December 5-9 to erect tents needed for stabling, vendors and hospitality. To hold the 8-week Winter Equestrian Festival, another special-use permit needs to be signed. This would begin in January 2008. Keeping the show and festival in Wellington is of special interest in particular to equestrians, realtors and business that rely on the influx.