Just Sold!

Over 6000 square feet on 340 feet of bay front with 5 bedroom and 5 fireplaces. List price $1,998,000

Let the Bay To Beaches Team find your dream home!

Steve Armstrong, Realtor Certifying Agent, Florida Green Builders Coalition Smith & Associates Real Estate http://www.UniqueTampaHomes.com

Home Owners Insurance in Florida

I get asked many times from new comers to Florida about our our home owner and flood insurance rates.  As many of our residents are aware, we have significantly higher premiums in the state because of our notorious hurricane season and outlook for tropical weather.    Being surround by water has it advantages and costs.

Two things to keep in mind when buy a house, generally there are requirements and discounts related to your flood elevation and the ability of a home to withstand wind damage.    As a result, when doing home inspection it is important to ask your insurance agent and inspector about a Wind Mitigation Survey.

With recent changes to wind mitigation inspections, I found this article useful on the Smith Blog: http://www.smithandassociates.com/blog/2012/01/wind-mitigation-changes-are-you-in-the-know/

Additionally depending on your homes proximity to the flood plain, your insurance company may require an Elevation Certificate to get coverage.  This can be obtained from a previous owner or from your title agent. (or as part of the Survey).

We are happy to help you navigate our insurance challenges here in the sunshine state, just let us know how we can help.

Steve Armstrong, Realtor Certifying Agent, Florida Green Builders Coalition Smith & Associates Real Estate http://www.BayToBeaches.com

Tampa Platt Street Bridge to Re-Open

After months and months of frustration in South Tampa, Tuesday January 17th marks the date that the Platt Street Bridge re-opens.  This will make getting into downtown Tampa much easier and more enjoyable.

That being said, the progress represents the beginning of a more bike friendly Bayshore.

More info http://www.tampagov.net/appl_tampa_announcements/ViewRelease.asp?ReleaseID=8860

Steve Armstrong, Realtor Certifying Agent, Florida Green Builders Coalition Smith & Associates Real Estate http://www.UniqueTampaHomes.com

UniqueTampaHomes.com 2011 Real Estate Newsletter

Feel free to check out my latest end of year newsletter.

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/UniqueTampaHomes-New-Year-2011-Newsletter.html?soid=1101774176732&aid=Gfk_u6ghI_4

Steve Armstrong, Realtor Certifying Agent, Florida Green Builders CoalitionSmith & Associates Real Estatehttp://www.UniqueTampaHomes.com