South Florida Real Estate is ranked among the hottest markets for real estate investment and a top destination for U.S. and foreign buyers. Not to mention great year-round weather for recreation and sports: golfing, swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling and scuba diving. From Miami to Fort Lauderdale South Florida has it all!

On 10/01/08 seller funded down payment assistance programs will be going away due to the new bill signed into law on 7/30/08.

If you want to purchase a home and have the seller contribute up to 6% in money for your down payment you need to act quickly.

Currently you can receive 6% towards closing costs and an additional 3% in down payment assistance, for a total of 9% at closing!

• Price declines over the past year have made this the best time to buy.
• The inventory of homes for sale gives Buyers incredible selection.
• The number of homes for sale is greater than it has been in 15 years. Real estate continues to be a great financial investment.
• The average return on a five percent down payment over 10 years is usually three to five times greater than the stock market returns.
• Mortgage companies have "buy and repair" programs for those homes that need "TLC". Repair costs can be financed into the loan and then completed after closing.

The current favorable market conditions won’t last long. Research shows that prices are beginning to stabilize and price declines will soon be over.

News stories and advertising of the current "mortgage crisis" would suggest that borrowing will become much harder to achieve for many.

Remember: Seller funded down payment is going away on 10/01/08, if you want to get up to 9% towards your down payment and closing costs act now.

I have worked with Mark Cornwell of Chase Mortgage for the past several years and he is up on all of the latest changes in the mortgage arena. Please feel free to contact Mark to find out how you can benefit! Mark.cornwell@chase.com

If you would like to receive a daily list of homes as they hit the market please visit: www.getsouthfloridalistings.com.

It would be my pleasure to assist you in all of your South Florida Real Estate needs, from Miami to Fort Lauderdale; I am here to be of service.

ELLEN BITHELL
CRS, CERTIFIED REO SPECIALIST, HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES SPECIALIST
SELLING SOUTH FLORIDA