Steve Feldkamp

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Open House in Charleston Corners on Sunday

Charleston Corners, Tampa  -  We invite everyone to visit our open house at 8508 Heyward Rd on October 19 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.   THIS IS THE LAST DAY OF THE 10 DAY NATIONAL COLDWELLBANKER SALE. Price is reduced 10% from $269,000 to $242,100!!!!!!!!

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Buying American

I purchased a toilet flush kit at the loca home improvement store. I searched through the many choices. Then I noticed a product that was made in the USA! Awesome! And it was competively priced! I made my PROUD purchase, knowing I was supporting a worker in MY country, who just may be purchasing a home in MY country! The UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!!!! What a concept ME supporting a fellow AMERICAN worker that may in turn support further spending in THIS country by purchasing a home!

I took my purchase home, and carefully took it from the bag. Opening the package, I was amazed.

FIRST because the product looked and felt like quality---you know --well some of you younger folks may not know-- the feel of an American made product that was built to LAST. With instructions that were not broken english that wreaked of CHINA!

SECOND --I realized how few and far between the times are I experience such a product in today's USA. I almost wept as I pondered what has happened to our country's product mix.

I work a few hours a week at my local auto parts store. A customer came in recently and wanted touch-up paint for her 2008 Hyundia. I checked the paint code on her car door, and consulted the paint book. No Hyundia colors available. I noticed as I was looking at the label on the door, the car was made in Korea. I suggested she call Korea. I couldn't resist!

I have rented a number of cars over the last 3 years when I travel to Michigan. Imports and mostly American cars.

ANYONE WHO DOUBTS THE QUALITY OF AMERICAN CARS HASN'T DRIVEN ONE LATELY. I am not a Chrysler fan, and my American rentals have been mostly Fords and GM products. I CHALLENGE YOU TO COMPARE IF YOU THINK THE IMPORTS HAVE ANY ADVANTAGE OVER THE BIG THREE!

Back in the late seventies and through the early nineties, I worked as a mechanic. The last 14 years as an import car repair techician. The big three lost a lot of ground to the imports during that period. And for good reason. American cars for the most parts were JUNK. That has changed, and I would put a Camry against a Ford Fusion or Chevy Malibu any time.

It's time to get this country on track -- start by at least giving the American product another look!

Price Reduced on 6006 Desert Peace Ave in Dupree Lakes

Dupree Lakes, Dupree Gardens  -  Announcing a price reduction on 6006 Desert Peace Ave, a 1,394 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm single story. Now MLS® $150,000 - REDUCED FROM $185K!!!!.

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You think Florida is too expensive? NOT!

We often hear people complaining about Florida's high property tax rates. However, an objective look at Florida's state and local taxes confirms that overall we have a relatively low tax burden. Below are some interesting facts about Florida's taxes:

1.   A recent U.S. Census survey found that Florida's property tax burden was onl^y the 22nd^th highest in the Country, while many of our feeder markets dominated the list of the top ten highest property tax states. (1. New Jersey, 2. New Hampshire, 3. Connecticut, 4. New York, 5. Massachusetts, 6. Rhode Island, 7. Illinois, 8. Vermont, 9. Wisconsin, 10. California). Note: This survey was completed prior to the passage of Florida Tax Reform Amendment 1, which is generally expected to reduce Florida's property taxes.

2.   A recent study of state and local tax burdens of the fifty states examined their sales, income, gasoline, property, and cigarette taxes and found that Florida's state and local tax burden was only the 39^th highest in the Country. (MSN Money)

3.     Florida is one of 7 states that does not assess a state income tax. (The other 6 states are Alaska, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming).

4.   Many states have increased their estate tax rates over the past several years, while Florida does not have an estate tax.

5.   A recent study found that Florida had the 5^th best business tax climate in the Country, based upon corporate, sales, individual income, unemployment insurance, and property taxes. (The Tax Foundation)

Mortgage Perspective

I read today that one third of homes in the U.S. are owned free and clear. No loans against them. Less than 10% of mortgages are sub-prime loans. Only 8% of those are in forclosure or delinquent on the payments. Yes, the credit market is suffering a "correction". Money has been too easy to get for too long. This will pass, and the housing market will be better for it! Now is a good time to buy and get your part of the American Dream. It IS still alive! Click here Shuttle News for space Shuttle Endeavor news!

Where oh where are the buyers??

This is my first venture in to Blogging. Your constructive comments are welcome!

There are buyers who are realizing this is one of the best oppourtunities in a long time to buy a home. Choices are plentiful. Prices are stable. As history has always shown, real estate is a good investment, and I believe will continue to be. I have personnally purchased real estate in the last 2 years. My own home and 2 investment properties.

Then there are the buyers who will wait until the oppourtunity passes. Too bad. And it will pass.