Oak Run Golf & Country Club, Ocala FL

Oak Run is a wonderful active adult golf community located in Southwest Ocala, Florida, a classy gated neighborhood with so much to offer.  This place literally has it all and what a place to retire to – everything right in the community complete with 24-hour gated security, 18-hole championship golf course, 9-hole executive golf course, 6-acre training facility, two golf clubhouses, pro-shops, six recreational facilities with indoor & outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, Roman spa, fitness centers, tennis, shuffleboard, bocce ball, library, auditorium, restaurants and too many activities, hobby clubs & enthusiast clubs to mention!

Oak Run Community Pool

This beautiful subdivision has a variety of homes & lot sizes to meet your specific needs.  You can’t beat these amenities and Oak Run boasts several different recreation areas convenient to all community members.

Oak Run Swimming Pool

The Orchid Club is nestled in the middle of a 10-acre park-like setting – enjoy yourself indoors & out!  Complete with fitness center, card game & meeting rooms, billiards, arts & crafts, ceramic studio and library.  This great hot spot also sports an auditorium – sit with friends and enjoy movies, plays, musical performances, gala dances with live bands, bingo, etc…  accommodates over 1,000 individuals, perfect for large gatherings & community events!

Oak Run Hot Tub

The Island Club is for all of you water-lovers out there – boasting three “specialty pools” that include a lap pool, an aquacizing pool and a lounge pool – not to mention the lovely elevated sundeck for you to soak up that gorgeous Florida sunshine.  So, no matter what your level of swim intensity is, you’re sure to find it at the Island Club!  We cannot forget to mention the luxurious Roman spa and inside the clubhouse is a convenient meeting room.

Oak Run Golf Course View

The Aquatic Sports Club is the place for year-round water enjoyment and exercise!  Always in season, the indoor heated swimming pool not only has open swimming but there are also work-out sessions as well.  Want to catch up on the latest buzz?  You’ll hear it all on the large sundeck outside!

Oak Run Tennis Courts

The newest addition to Oak Run is the gorgeous Palm Grove Club – with 30,000 square feet of space and packed with special features – including dedicated health center, aerobic room & yoga room, multi-purpose center for social events, large stage for theater presentations, tropical pool area, Jacuzzi spa and lots of space to lounge.

Oak Run Fitness Center

Royal Oaks Golf Club is one of the most outstanding features of the Oak Run community.  Luxurious lush golfing grounds in tune with nature make for a spectacular golfing experience!  Part of the Audubon system, the preserved grounds, majestic granddaddy oaks, wild birds,  manicured courses and pristine Florida ambiance make this a picturesque setting that will have you at the top of your game…  Enjoy the 18-hole Champion golf course, or hit it up for a quick nine anytime at the Executive Golf Club with 3-9 courses.  Ready to kick it up a notch?  Sharpen your skills at the 6-acre 6-hole practice facility and get with a PGA pro for lessons and fittings to help get you that edge…  Done with the game and ready for an elegant gourmet dining experience?  Perhaps you need a great breakfast to get you going?  You cannot miss the Royal Oaks Members’ Dining Room which serves breakfast, lunch & gourmet dinners.  Enjoy panoramic views of the golf courses as you dine in style…  If golfing is not your thing – but fine dining is, you can still enjoy good times with friends here with your social membership.   Two pro-shops will have you geared up and ready to go on your golfing experience!

Oak Run Shuffleboard

Ready for a Virtual Tour of Oak Run?  Let us show you around Oak Run right from your computer!

Oak Run Virtual Tour Video

Thinking about moving to Oak Run?  Please feel free to fill out our Dream Home Finder and let us look FOR YOU, allow us to sort through all the active listings, send you property information and schedule showings.  If you live in Oak Run and are thinking of selling, feel free to contact us for more detailed statistics or a free market analysis, please call or e-mail us.

You may email us directly at: Info@TheShultzTeam.com or call us anytime at 800-243-4087.

Art & Brigitte Shultz
The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL THROUGH THE SHULTZ TEAM! *

If you are a First-time home buyer and qualify for the $8,000 tax credit, but don’t have the money for a down payment or closing costs, you may now be able to get a loan to help with those upfront costs.

On May 29 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that FHA (Federal Housing Administration allows state housing finance agencies to “monetize” (provide second mortgage) the tax credit so that home buyers are able to use the funds towards closing costs and down payments for the purchase of an FHA-insured mortgage.

Previously home buyers were only able to use the tax credit after filing their federal tax returns and had to come up with the upfront costs on their own.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that FHA-approved lenders may purchase the tax credit from the borrower in advance, so that the home buyer can use the tax credit for closing costs or to make an additional down payment, over and above the required 3.5% minimum down payment that is a requirement for an FHA-insured loan.

For families who would like to take advantage of today’s low interest rates, rock bottom prices, huge selection, this is really great news. Since this tax credit is only available until November 30, 2009, this could help a lot of families who cannot save enough money for a down payment and closing costs.

In addition to the 160,000 sales expected as a result of the tax credit,  the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) estimates that 40,000 more homes will be purchased due to the FHA monetization program.

Visit the website of the National Council of State Housing Agencies (www.ncsha.org) for a list of states offering First-time home buyer tax credit loan programs.

For more information on the First-time home buyer tax credit go to Tax Credit.

Feel free to review the Ocala Florida Real Estate Statistics for May of 2009.

To see what Ocala Real Estate is selling for visit our website www.OcalaVisualTours.com

Art & Brigitte Shultz

The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL THROUGH THE SHULTZ TEAM! *

California usually leads the way for the economic health of our nation. New research from the state with the biggest residential property market shows signs that the housing market could start to rebound very soon. View story here.

You can also review our last statistics update for Ocala Florida Real Estate for April 2009.

Having difficulty in these economic times?  Facing foreclosure? If you are in need of help of saving your home from the foreclosure process, please give us a call.  We are Short Sale Specialists and may be able to save your credit from the tarnish of a foreclosure.  Don’t wait – the sooner we can help you, the better!

For more detailed statistics or a free market analysis, please call or e-mail us.
Info@TheShultzTeam.com or call us direct at 352-291-1276.

Art & Brigitte Shultz
The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL THROUGH THE SHULTZ TEAM! *

According to OMCAR (Ocala Marion County Board of Realtors) from the end of April of 2008 to April 30, 2009 the average sales price for residential homes fell from $178,462 to $128,129 for a decrease of 28%.

The average list price fell from $195,258 to 138,639 or a decline of 28% for the same 12 months period.

The average price per square foot of living area for residential homes fell from $107 a year ago to $81 by the end of April 2009, for a decrease of 24%.

The median sales price fell from $143,900 to 108,000 fro the same 1 year period for a decline of 24%.

Our MLS has 5951 active residential listings as of the May 12th, 2009, which shows significant decrease in inventory. Inventory has been declining since December 2007. 183 homes sold through the Ocala Marion County MLS in April 09.

The good news is that the average sales price has increased 10% in the last month from $115,943 to $128,129.  As a matter of fact, the average list price and the median list and sales prices have all increased by 10-12%.

The Ocala/Marion County Real Estate Market is  still working hard on absorbing the many foreclosures and short sales. Sales volumes are up and prices are approximately 28% down from a year ago, but up about 10% from a month ago. With interest rates still at an all time low and the recent approval of the $8000 tax credit we expect to see inventory continue to move at these levels.

Want to get in on the great opportunities this buyer’s market has to offer?  Check out our article on Tips For Buying Distressed Properties for great comprehensive information on what to look for when buying a foreclosed or short sale home.

Are you facing foreclosure and need to sell your home for a short sale (selling the property for less than what the current mortgage amount is)?  The Shultz Team are experienced Short Sale Specialists and are more than happy to assist you in selling your property under stressful circumstances. With an aggressive marketing plan, great communication and fully staffed office, we are ready to help save your home and credit from foreclosure.  Feel free to contact Art & Brigitte Shultz to discuss your situation and start a plan to save your credit TODAY – the clock is ticking and sooner we are able to assist you, the more likely we are to have a successful closing.

You can also review our last statistics update for Ocala Florida Real Estate for January 2008

For more detailed statistics or a free market analysis, please call or e-mail us.
Info@TheShultzTeam.com or call us direct at 352-291-1276.

Art & Brigitte Shultz
The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL THROUGH THE SHULTZ TEAM! *

With an upsurge of distressed properties on the Ocala Real Estate market, more potential buyers are taking a second look at purchasing homes that are being sold at a discount due to pre-foreclosure, foreclosure/bank owned or at auction. A numerous amount of these properties may have had long periods with little to no maintenance, damage from previous tenants or other hidden issues that potential home buyers must be wary of. We highly suggest to not purchase a home without hiring an inspector to look it over first, especially a vacant distressed property. The Shultz Team would like to offer some tips and useful information on some of the problems that can occur. There are some tell-tale signs you may keep a sharp eye out for during your viewing stage – issues which may cause a buyer significant and costly problems:

• Poor subdivision conditions. There may be too many homes for sale on the market in the immediate area. Another sign – are any of the houses boarded up? Keep an eye on the surrounding homes or neighborhood. These other properties will speak volumes about your possible future investment.
• Poor exterior condition. Outdoor maintenance on a home is often very telling of what lies beneath. If the house you are looking at has landscaping in poor condition, broken gutters or hanging soffits – what else could be wrong? If the property owner is having difficulty making their mortgage payments, they are not going to spend additional money to maintain a home they will be selling at a loss anyway.
  
• Foundation issues. Another major consideration for a new home buyer is foundation damage. Survey the property for proper grading, if there are slopes and wash-outs, a future retaining wall or additional drainage may be a future cost. The grade should not go over the foundation level, this can cause water accumulation and wood rot from being pushed up against the building materials not suited for being in contact with soil and/or mulch. Check for cracks in the slab bigger than 1/3 of an inch. These may be signs of major structural issues.
  
• Offensive or strange odors. A home that is emitting strong smells outside and/or inside almost always indicate a problem. This could be an issue with mildew/mold, animal carcass, cigarette smoke, pet odors, chemical spills and general uncleanliness (filters not being changed out regularly, clogged drains, undisposed-of items left behind from tenants, etc). Investigate further, and if you do end up putting an offer in, be sure to point this out to your home inspector to address while at the property.
  
• Faulty electrical systems. Watch out for lights flickering and check the temperature of face plates for heat. This could mean poor, damaged or faulty wiring.
• Condensation or fogged-up windows. Windows with condensation droplets, fog or water in between the double-paned windows can signify trouble lurking.
• Ceiling and drywall stains. Keep your eyes peeled for sagging drywall and stains either on the ceiling, walls, baseboards or cabinets – which usually indicate water damage, mildew or mold. An inspector must check for leaks and mold. You also may want to consider getting a specialized roof inspector in addition to your standard home inspection as well.
  
• Vandalism. Vacant properties have been a hot-spot for stolen fixtures, appliances, lighting, carpeting, etc. If you are putting an offer in the home, be sure to compare it to the listing information provided by the selling agent. You may find missing items since the property had been originally listed. If you opt not to get a home inspection you run the risk of moving in not realizing you don’t have an outside air conditioning unit, well pump, appliances, etc. Foreclosure and/or distressed property contracts are always in As-Is condition – be sure you know exactly what you are purchasing, it is up to the buyer to perform their due diligence in any real estate transaction.
  
• Pests and rodents. Look for possible pest infestation during your preview. You can keep an eye out for pest elimination, damage (such as chewing/nesting) and/or foul animal odors.

Feel free to check out our Ocala Buyer Information Page with more helpful buyer tips, buyer reports and personal real estate assistance. View our write-up on the $8,000 buyer tax credit as well! Call us toll free at any time, we are more than happy to be of service to you.

For more detailed statistics or a free market analysis, please call or e-mail us. Info@TheShultzTeam.com or call us direct at 352-291-1276.

Art & Brigitte Shultz
The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL THROUGH THE SHULTZ TEAM! *

Buying a new appliance or looking to get that riding lawn mower?  Well if you are, be sure to use our free moving truck to transport them home to save on delivery charges!  Our truck is available for all of our clients both past and present and also for charity events anywhere in Marion County.  Our free moving truck comes complete with loading ramp, dolly and furniture pads.  Subject to availability so please call as far in advance as possible to reserve the time you will need it.  Driver must be 21 years old with valid license and insurance.  Just fill the gas tank when you are finished is all we ask!  We have been offering this free service to our community for over 6 years.  If you have ever been a client of ours you will always be a client of ours and we continue to offer this service to you and your family.  Our truck is free for personal moving, charity events, donating furniture, picking up personal items for delivery, etc.  Feel free to call or email us to request a time slot!

Art & Brigitte Shultz
The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK WHEN YOU BUY OR SELL THROUGH THE SHULTZ TEAM! *

According to OMCAR (Ocala Marion County Board of Realtors) from the end of January of 2008 to January 31, 2009 the average sales price for residential homes fell from $163,442 to $121,059 for a decrease of 25%.

The average list price fell from $176,176to $133,296 or a decline of 24% for the same 12 months period.

The average price per square foot of living area for residential homes fell from $103 a year ago to $73 by the end of January 2009, for a decrease of 29%.

The median sales price fell from $140,000 to $110,000 for a decline of 21%.

Our MLS has 6431 active residential listings as of the March 4th, 2009, which shows another small decrease in inventory. Inventory has been declining since December 2007. 147 homes sold through the Ocala Marion County MLS in January 09, which is an absorption rate of 40.4 (which means a home would take 40.4 months to sell at the current rate of sales).

The Ocala/Marion County Real Estate Market is working hard on absorbing the many foreclosures and short sales. Sales volumes are up and prices are approx. 25% down. With interest rates still at an all time low and the recent approval of the $8000 tax credit we expect to see inventory continue to move at these lower levels.

For more detailed statistics or a free market analysis, please call or e-mail us.

Email Direct:  Brigitte@ocalavisualtours.com or call direct 352-875-3897 Brigitte’s Cell

Art & Brigitte Shultz
The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK! * – Contact for more details!

According to OMCAR (Ocala Marion County Board of Realtors) from the end of December of 2007 to December 31, 2008 the average sales price for residential homes fell from $171,588 to $141,059 for a decrease of 18%.

The average list price fell from $183,489to $153,608 or a decline of 16% for the same 12 months period.

The average price per square foot of living area for residential homes fell from $107 a year ago to $82 by the end of December 2008, for a decrease of 23%.

The median sales price fell from $145,000 to $119,000 for a decline of 18%.

Our MLS has 6723 active residential listings as of the December 1, 2008, which shows a significant decrease in inventory. Inventory has been declining since December 2007. 162 homes sold through the Ocala Marion County MLS in December 08, which is an absorption rate of 27 (which means a home would take 27 months to sell at the current rate of sales).

Even though we still see negative numbers on the yearly comparison, we definitely see improvement in the decreasing numbers. Our inventory has come down from over 8000 in 2006 to 6723 as of the writing of this article, and we actually have sold more homes in December of 2008, than in December of 2007. Buyer interest is definitely increasing. Interest rates are at an all time low dipping below 5% for a 30 year fixed rate. In my humble opinion, I see lots of signs of having reached or being very close to the bottom.  You can see the difference between the December 2008 Ocala Real Estate Statistics and the November 2008 Ocala Real Estate Statistics.

For more detailed statistics or a free market analysis, please call or e-mail us.

Art & Brigitte Shultz
The Shultz Team
#1 Team at Re/Max Premier Realty
Ocala, FL
Toll Free: 800-243-4087
Direct: 352-291-1276
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
* FREE OCALA MOVING TRUCK! * – Contact for more details!

I am happy to say that I have just returned from my 7th CyberStar Summit – and I am very excited to start implementing the new up-to-date marketing concepts and technology for 2009! The CyberStars are an elite Real Estate networking group of top agents who excel in their market using today’s technology. The Summit is the large annual event that is a must-attend for this highly competitive field. The people I have met and the things I have learned have become priceless to me over the years.

This year the most fascinating subjects were real estate tours uploaded to the ever-popular You Tube video website, blogging & upgraded Virtual Tours. Our business has always circulated around offering the best services possible for our clients, and the things I have learned attending their seminars has helped to keep our team in top form. Always looking to improve, I am very enthusiastic about all of the new concepts and implementing them this upcoming year.

Check out our Ocala Florida write-up with interesting facts about the Marion County area!

Art & Brigitte Shultz THE SHULTZ TEAM
Re/Max Premier Realty
(800) 476-5055 Ext. 122
(352) 732-3222 Ext. 122
Info@OcalaVisualTours.com
www.OcalaVisualTours.com
*FREE MOVING TRUCK!* – When you buy or sell with The Shultz Team