Pensacola Foreclosure & Distressed Homes For Sale

Pensacola Foreclosure & Distressed Homes For Sale

There are currently 173 Residential Foreclosures for sale in the Pensacola MLS region.  There are also 434 Lis Pendens/ Short Sale residential properties listed for sale at this time.  The foreclosures range in asking price from $8,550 to $495,000.  The short sales range in asking price from $12,900 $1,150,000 (Please keep in mind that the short sale prices must first be approved by a lender, so the asking prices are not guaranteed).

For those seeking to purchase Foreclosures, Short Sales, or other types of distressed property in the Pensacola and NW Florida region, you may sign up for the daily email notification.  Each day, you will receive an email containing any new or updated foreclosure & distressed home listings.  Many of the distressed homes for sale will be purchased quickly by other investors and home buyers, so it is important to review the listings daily and inspect the properties quickly in order to get offers to the Seller before other purchasers place contracts on the most desirable or best "bargain" homes.

For more information, or to browse available home listings, please email BrokerTrish@gmail.com, visit my website, or contact me at 850-449-0908. 

My services to you as a Buyer's agent are at no cost to you, as I am paid by the Seller at closing.  I also offer competitive listing services. 

This update current as of February 27, 2010.  Sign up for my blog to keep up with future market condition updates on Pensacola Foreclosures and Distressed Homes for sale.

	Number of Residential Detached Homes Currently Available	Number of Short Sales/Lis Pendens currently available	Number of Foreclosures Currently Available		Number of Residential Detached Sales in the last 6 months	Number of Short Sale/ Lis Pendens closed in the last 6 months	Number of Foreclosures closed in the last 6 months
West Pensacola	292	36	18		155	8	45
Northwest Pensacola	477	70	23		306	23	67
Southwest Pensacola	368	43	23		187	18	29
South Pensacola	146	16	8		39	4	11
Northeast Pensacola	215	23	13		167	10	26
Southeast Pensacola	233	22	11		130	20	19
North Central Pensacola	167	13	12		89	8	18
Cantonment	139	15	4		77	1	9
Pace	321	35	7		219	22	22
Milton	479	56	17		197	23	32
Gulf Breeze	328	49	12		162	25	20
Century/Molino	90	7	5		22	2	7
Pensacola Beach	64	8	0		6	1	1
Perdido Key	17	1	0		132	2	5
Data current as of 2-27-2010

How Does a Home Appraisal Work?

Appraisals are a very important part of the home selling process.  After all, if you have a Buyer willing to pay the asking price, you don't want the appraisal to come back too low, because then the Buyer can't get the loan unless you lower the price, or they bring the difference to the closing table (and let's face it- how many Buyers really have that much ready cash to bring to closing???).


So, while your renovations may be a factor in selling the home more quickly due to increased curb appeal and Buyer preferences, do they really add value to the appraisal?  While many upgrades are important in attracting potential buyers, in many cases, they just do not add additional value to the home.



What goes into a Lender's Appraisal?


To find out how FHA Appraisals work, Click Here.
To find out how Fannie Mae Appraisals work, Click Here.
To find out how Freddie Mac Appraisals work, Click Here.


Best advice- seek a professional opinion from a Licensed Realtor about what renovations make the most sense (when getting your home ready for sale ) for your market area BEFORE you hire the contractor.  And be prepared to find out that even though you spent $50,000 in upgrades, your home may not appraise $50,000 higher than it previously did.  But, it may sell a lot more quickly than the house next door that has not been remodeled- most Buyer's like a home that is move-in-ready where the work has already been done.  Just be sure to keep themes neutral, as your taste and the tastes of potential buyers may be different...

Owner Financing Available Pensacola, FL, $59,900

For Sale: 3BR/1BA Single Family House in Pensacola, FL, $59,900

Please contact Trish Sarfert at 850-449-0908 for more information or to schedule a sowing appointment.

Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audit

How To Do a Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Audit

Whether you are getting ready to sell a home or if you are concerned about the environment or just wanting to cut down on your utility bills, you can do a self-directed energy audit of your home. Grab a clipboard or legal pad and take a tour of your own house! Here's what to look for and some suggestions on how to conduct your audit.

1. Insulation - do you have it in your walls? Find out by temporarily removing and looking behind a wall light switch or outlet. If you don't see any insulation, you need to have insulation blown into your walls behind the siding.

What about attic insulation? If you have at least a foot of insulation material in your attic, there should not be a problem. If there is any less than that, then you need to add more or replace it.

2. Check outside switch plates. Leakage can occur at these sites, and can be resolved by putting foam gaskets behind the switch cover.

3. Windows can be a source of drafts and air leakage. Raise and lower (or slide side to side) the window; if it's loose, add weather stripping to tighten the movement. Check the glass panes - if you have single-pane glass, you can cover them with plastic sheeting. Look closely at the window molding and the wall - if there are cracks, use caulk to fill them in.

4. Doors, like windows, need to be closely checked. Check the seal - if it is loose or if you see light around the edges of the door when it is closed, apply weather stripping. Use caulk to fill in cracks between the door frame and the wall.

5. Check your fireplace. See that the flue is closed when the fireplace is not in use, and that it has a tight seal. If you choose not to use your fireplace, consider using board insulation to seal it.

6. Now look at the thermostat. Are you turning it down at night when you are sleeping and when you are not at home? Try to turn it down 10 degrees lower than during the day. If you are taking care of the other energy wastes in your home, you may be able to get by with turning your thermostat up in the morning (in winter) for about a half an hour, then turning it down for the rest of the day as your house retains the heat. (The inverse would be true for air conditioning.)

7. Head for the basement and check your water heater. Does it have insulation built into its walls? If not, consider wrapping it with an insulating jacket made for the purpose. Turn down the temperature of your hot water heater to 120 degrees (this will also help protect small children from getting burned from hot tap water).

8. The ducts of your heating and cooling system may need sealing, especially around the joints. If you see any gaps or cracks, seal with aptly-named duct tape.

Freshen Your Breathe Naturally

How To Freshen Up Your Breath With Herbs

For most of us, bad breath is a temporary - although inconvenient - problem. Provided that your bad breath is not caused by digestive disorders, periodontal disease, or other medical problems, using herbs and natural means to freshen your breath are effective and safe. Here are some ideas for herbal breath fresheners.

1. Cardamom
This is an herb - or, more correctly, a spice - that contains cineole, which acts as an antiseptic. Chew a few seeds to make your breath smell spicy and clean your mouth.

2. Eucalyptus
A derivative of this familiar plant, eucalyptol, is actually used in commercial mouthwashes. It also contains cineole. Crush 1-2 ounce of the leaves and add them to a cup of vodka; steep for several days and strain out the leaves, or just leave the leaves in. Use as a mouthwash as needed to fight bad breath. If you can't find eucalyptus leaves, the same method works using other herbs, such as any combination of spearmint, rosemary, ginger, lavender, peppermint, basil, cinnamon, nutmeg, or fennel.

3. Parsley
There is a reason why parsley is served as a garnish on restaurant dinner plates. Chewed after a meal, parsley freshens breath. It contains a great deal of chlorophyll, which accounts for its breath-freshening capabilities.

4. Anise
If you like licorice, give anise a try. It is an ancient remedy for bad breath. You could also chew on the seeds, or make a decoction by simmering 3 teaspoons of anise seeds in a cup of water for 3-5 minutes. Cool, strain, and use as a mouthwash.

5. Dill
Another chlorophyll-rich herb, drinking dill tea or chewing on a few dill seeds after a meal freshens breath.

6. Fresh mint
Growing mints in pots is quite easy, and nipping off a few leaves and chewing them helps to make your breath fresh.

7. Cloves
Chewing a few cloves will give your breath a spicy scent. Clove is also antibacterial, and clove oil is a traditional remedy for toothache.

For Sale: 3BR/1BA Single Family House in Pensacola, FL, $59,900

For Sale: 3BR/1BA Single Family House in Pensacola, FL, $59,900

Estate Sale-Owner needs to sell QUICKLY! Use your $8000 First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit or the $6500 "Long Time Resident" Tax Credit to purchase this fabulous property! Create your own equity with this spacious 2-story charmer with two large porch areas! The owner had begun renovations of this great home, including building custom cedar shelves and siding in the upstairs bedrooms. All materials for the project that are still in the home will convey at closing, for the do-it-your-selfer who wants to finish the project. The downstairs Living Room and Family Room are both very large, with lots of windows for natural lighting. The Kitchen is quite spacious with plenty of room to add an island, if desired. There are two porches- one covered porch at the front entry that could easily be screened and is perfect for a set of rocking chairs! One more larger screened porch is located on the rear of the home, facing to the large .59 acre yard. Yes, this home will need some work, but the end product will be worth the effort! See a tax professional or visit http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=215791,00.html to see if you may qualify for the tax credits.  For additional property information, go to: http://1105N49th.ShadyTreeHomes.com or call Trish at 850-449-0908.

For Sale: BR/BA Office in Pensacola, FL, $139,000

For Sale: BR/BA Office in Pensacola, FL, $139,000

Close to Downtown. 2 city lots with 2 driveways and parking in rear. Currently used as Commericial, but could easily be residential. Completely renovated in 2004, new Heat/Air, new windows, security system, updated electrical, updated plumbing, new cabinets, new bath, hardwood and tile flooring, new garage door.

Searching For Green Appraisers

Calling all Pensacola area appraisers!!! We need appraisers that have knowledge in appraising Green certified homes in Pensacola and surrounding areas.  We have builders that are building Green or that want to build Green, we have buyers that want to buy Green homes, and we have lenders that want to offer Energy Efficiency Mortgages and HOP Down-payment assistance for Green homes (if it gets re-funded).  What we don't have are appraisers that have taken Green appraisal classes or that are certified for Sustainable Green Home appraisals.  I searched the Appraisal Institute website out to a 300 mile radius and could not find one appraiser who was a match for Sustainable Green homes.  I called about a dozen local appraisers, some of whom had some knowledge, but none of whom had taken any special classes on the subject.

So, my appeal to you, Mr. or Mrs/Ms. Appraiser- if you are educated or certified for these types of properties, please show up at the next Homebuilder's Association Green Council meeting so that our builders can pick your brain and ask you questions.  We meet the last Wednesday of every month at noon at the HBA, 4400 Bayou Blvd St 45.  Even better, if you'd like to be a guest speaker, we'll give you free lunch.  Our builders want to build affordable Green homes in Pensacola and other areas, and we want to make sure that the builders do not have appraisal issues come closing time.  Please come share your knowledge with us so that we can bring affordable Green home building practices for Pensacola home buyers.

The Power of Seeds

The Power of Seeds 

Seeds are often included with nuts in nutritional analysis, and in fact, a nut is the seed of a tree. However, those foods generally accepted as seeds and called such include flax, sesame, pumpkin, hemp, and sunflower.

Each seed contains the potential life of a plant, so a lot of energy and nutrition is packed into these tiny, crunchy foods. They are full of nutrients, fiber and healthy fats in varying proportions. Here is a list of some of the commonly available seeds and their nutritional value and potential health benefits.

-Flax
These little brown seeds have gotten a reputation for the "good" fats they contain, and for good reason. The oil in flax seed has hormone-regulating properties, making is especially suitable for women. Flaxseeds contain soluble fibers, which may lower blood cholesterol. They are also high in potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorous.

-Sesame
Familiar on hamburger buns, sesame seeds go beyond the burger. Considered by some experts to be a "superfood," sesame seeds are high in calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin A. They are said to increase stamina and are eaten in some parts of the world in place of dairy products. They contain more calcium per 100 grams than a pint of milk or 100 grams of Swiss cheese.

-Pumpkin
These seeds are very high in magnesium, potassium and phosphorous. They also have been indicated in aiding prostate health in men. Pumpkin seeds, if eaten on a regular basis, can expel internal parasites.

-Hemp
This little, round seed has been called the world's most nutritionally complete food source. While that claim may be a bit of an exaggeration, hemp seeds do pack a nutritional punch. The ratio of essential fatty acids and amino acids (proteins) are proportioned perfectly for human nutritional needs, and the proteins in hemp seeds mimic those manufactured in human blood.

-Sunflower
Like most seeds, sunflower seeds are high in potassium and phosphorous, and they are exceptionally high in folate. In some parts of Russia, sunflower seeds are a staple food. They also contain 7.4 milligrams of Vitamin E and 22.5 micrograms of selenium per ounce.  

Seeds are available in various forms - salted, roasted, raw, or creamed into "butters." You can also sprout raw seeds such as sunflower or alfalfa. The high oil content of seeds means they are subject to rancidity, so look for whole seeds (not chopped or sliced) when purchasing them. Nut butters should be refrigerated. Try to purchase seeds in their raw, unsalted state in order to enjoy their full nutritional benefits.

Presented By:

Trish Sarfert, Broker/Owner EcoLogical Realty
Certified EcoBroker, NAR Green Designee
Trish@Eco-LogicalRealty.com  http://www.ShadesOfGreenRealty.com
850-449-0908 cell

Garden= A Place of Healing

Garden = A Place of Healing

The healing nature of a garden is actually an ancient concept. The famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon were built by King Nebuchadnezzar to comfort his homesick wife, Amyitis. From Japanese Zen gardens to medieval monastic gardens to modern therapy gardens, the healing power of nature has long been recognized in the form of gardening.

What is it about gardening that makes it so effective at lifting the spirits? What form does gardening take today?

Good Dirt


There is bacteria that lives in soil called mycobacterium vaccae. Interestingly, exposure to this bacteria has been shown to enhance cognitive function, perhaps by stimulating brain cells to produce serotonin. It is the brain level of this chemical that determines mood and mental function. In fact, low levels of serotonin are present in people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), depression, bipolar disorder, and other emotional and mental disorders. Getting your hands in the dirt exposes you to this beneficial microbe, and may play a part in the happy effects of gardening.

Grounded in the Ground


Gardening requires planning and effort. On a fundamental level, it gives people something to focus on besides their own problems and hurts. Gardens require daily care in the summer and planning in the winter, which helps keep you grounded. You have plants that depend on you, which helps distract the mind from troubles and ground them in the soil.

Exercise Is Good for Mind and Body


Gardening is hard work, but it is rewarding work. One of the basic things a person can do to enhance mental and physical health is to get regular exercise, and gardening provides fresh air, activity, and beauty. The physical effort required to weed, dig, plant, haul compost, etc. is a healthy workout that yields rewards in the form of beautiful plants. It's a lovely cycle that is good for the mind, spirit, and body.

Hospital Gardens


Nursing homes and hospitals are coming to recognize the healing effects of gardens, and more and more of them are planting gardens where patients can escape the sterile halls. Studies have actually shown lower heart rates and improved moods among patients who were allowed to stroll in gardens.

Garden Therapy


Planting gardens as a form of therapy for trauma victims is also a successful venture for some hospitals. From victims of abuse and torture to those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, the healing power of nature encapsulated in a garden does wonders for human healing.

Connection with Nature


No matter where a garden is located, it is a piece of nature. Human beings are attracted to natural settings and the natural world from which we all came. If you can't plant a garden as big as the ones in Babylon, even a few containers with plants and a chance to get out into the sunlight can provide that connection with nature that we all need.

Gardening brings joy to the gardener. And the more joy you have in your life, the happier and more content you will be.

Always remember when planting a garden to plant low water use, native area plants. For information on what plants are native to Florida and will do well for Florida landscapes, you may contact the Escambia County Extension or Santa Rosa County Extension offices.

Presented by:

Trish Sarfert, GRI, EcoBroker, NAR Green Designee
EcoLogical Realty   850-449-0908 cell  Trish@Eco-LogicalRealty.com
http://www.ShadesOfGreenRealty.com

Pensacola Naval Aviation Museum Play Area

If you have kids, and you haven't been to the Pensacola National Naval Aviation Museum lately, then you are in for a treat!  They have added a new play area for younger children that offers an aviation themed play-set named the "USS Kiddie Hawk".  This interactive play area was designed like a flight deck of an aircraft carrier, and has periscopes, mock control panels, and everything you would expect to find on a real flight deck.  The area around the "flight deck" is safely padded with rubber matting, and during my visit, the area was kept very clean and organized.  There are even comfortable seats for parents to sit and watch, and books to read to little ones who aren't in the mood for climbing and sliding.  I highly recommend a visit to the National Naval Aviation Museum- maybe you'll catch site of the Blue Angels doing a practice run, or get a chance to catch an air show- here's the 2010 Blue Angels Schedule.

For more local information on the Pensacola area, please visit my website.

$35,000 Down Payment Assistance for New Homes in Pensacola, Florida

You heard me right- there are down-payment assistance programs currently available in the City of Pensacola that offer up to $35,000 in down payment assistance for the purchase of a new construction home within city limits.  These funds are available in the form of a forgivable loan offered through the SHIP Infill New Construction Program.  Homes purchased under this program must be priced under $189,000 in target areas within city limits.  Although the program is currently funded, it is a "first come, first served" basis, so be sure to speak with a participating lender to find out if you qualify for the program.
If you would like to receive a list of qualifying homes, please contact me.

Pensacola Foreclosure & Distressed Homes For Sale

Pensacola Foreclosure & Distressed Homes For Sale

There are currently 215 Residential Foreclosures for sale in the Pensacola MLS region.  There are also 551 Short Sale residential properties listed for sale at this time.  The foreclosures range in asking price from $15,200 to $299,000.  The short sales range in asking price from $12,900 $1,495,000 (Please keep in mind that the short sale prices must first be approved by a lender, so the asking prices are not guaranteed).

For those seeking to purchase Foreclosures, Short Sales, or other types of distressed property in the Pensacola and NW Florida region, you may sign up for the daily email notification.  Each day, you will receive an email containing any new or updated foreclosure & distressed home listings.  Many of the distressed homes for sale will be purchased quickly by other investors and home buyers, so it is important to review the listings daily and inspect the properties quickly in order to get offers to the Seller before other purchasers place contracts on the most desirable or best "bargain" homes.

For more information, or to browse available home listings, please email BrokerTrish@gmail.com, visit my website, or contact me at 850-449-0908. 

My services to you as a Buyer's agent are at no cost to you, as I am paid by the Seller at closing.  I also offer competitive listing services. 

This update current as of February 13, 2010.  Sign up for my blog to keep up with future market condition updates on Pensacola Foreclosures for sale.

	Foreclosed	Short Sales	Other Distressed	Non-Distressed
Residential Detached	170	422	18	3120
Residential Attached	11	33	2	237
Condominiums	25	89	6	659
Manufactured/Mobile Homes	9	7	0	96

$0-25,000	$25,001-$75,000	$75,001-$150,000	$150,001-$250,000	$250,001-$500,000	$500,001+
27	369	1247	1117	670	300
1	0	109	37	42	23
1	42	109	127	308	192
1	65	39	6	1	0