John Elwell's Florida Real Estate Blog

Stop your searching! This great furnished 2 bedroom/1 bath mobile home could be just the winter retreat or year round home you're looking for. It is situated near the recreation areas of Spanish Trails Village, a popular registered 55+ community in Zephyrhills, Florida, where one owns the land under the homes. The front section of the dwelling has an open layout with easy flow from the living room to eat-in the kitchen. The kitchen is well organized and any cook will love creating meals here. In the living room you will find plenty of room to entertain family and friends. Both bedrooms and the home's bathroom are just down the hall. Off the living room is an light and bright south-facing Florida Room. With our mild weather, you will likely spend many enjoyable hours here. At the end of the carport is a convenient utility/laundry room. This home is one of the few around with a natural gas connection for heating the home and for hot water. It also has many updated windows for greater efficiency. Navel orange tree in backyard. Your low monthly condo fees get you access to the nearby recreation building, swimming pool, shuffleboard courts, etc. They even cover your trash pick-up. Move right in and begin enjoying your life in Florida. Located very near restaurants, our hospital, supermarkets, home centers, medical facilities, Walmart, parks, etc. This home is PRICED WELL at just $46,000 and will garner a lot of attention from buyers. Call today to get more information or arrange a tour! JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444. Licensed in Florida.Click on any image below to see a larger version: John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

Christmas Dinner at Spanish Trails Village in Zephyrhills, Florida. Nice turn out and most of our "snowbird" residents have returned now. Those that have not, will soon be arriving now that the holidays are nearly over. I pity those driving down on Interstate 95 or 74. Those are typically one 1,000 mile parking lot that moves very slowly. I was in it twice and said never again. Wonderful weather though. Sunny and mid 70's during the day!Many of our 55+ subdivisions have these dinners on Thanksgiving and Christmas so that those residents who can't be with their families up north can be with their friends and neighbors here. The people even make up meal boxes and take them to shut-ins who live in the park. Beats a frozen dinner alone. The food is great and home-made. In 4 of the parks I pay for the turkeys and hams for these occasions and the people seem to appreciate that. Even got a round of applause each time.  Just one of the many benefits of wintering in one of our 55+ subdivisions where you own the land under the homes here in Zephyrhills, Florida. A week ago they also had a golf cart parade with every cart decorated for the holidays. With the lights and music we made the night truly come to life!If you are looking for a way to except the cold, snow and ice of the northern states, feel free to give me a call or email me. I will be happy to assist you in any way that I can.JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444. Licensed in Florida.Click on any image below to see a larger version: John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

Yesterday evening Spanish Trails Village in Zephyrhills, Florida held its annual golf cart parade. Many of the residents decorated their carts with flashing lights, tinsel, ornaments and even music to help usher in the holiday season. My mom and her little dog Daisy in her festive red coat rode along on a tour of all the streets. The people who did not have carts sat out to watch the parade go by. And those of us in the carts got to drive by all of the homes, many of which were elaborately decorated with lights. After the parade, everyone retired to the clubhouse for hot chocolate and cookies. Even though there were a few drops of rain, when you are away from family and weather that is traditionally what we think of as Christmas weather, these activities mean a lot to our residents. On Christmas Day we will gather in the clubhouse for a dinner with everyone contributing something to share. Not a bad way to celebrate the holidays in the Sunshine State!If you would like to be a part of this 55+ community or a similar one in Zephyrhills, Florida where you own the land under the mobile homes, feel free to contact me at: JOHN ELWELL - CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc.  813-783-4444. Licensed in Florida. John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

Sit on your terrace in a lounge chair and watch the sun set over the canal! What better way to end a day! This home is on a roomy lot at the end of a cul-de-sac with no thru traffic. It has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, plus 1,308 sq ft of heated/cooled living area. The center of the home has an open floor plan containing the kitchen, a dining area, a breakfast bar and a spacious living room with twin ceiling fans. Lots of room to enjoy and entertain friends in. At the south end of the home are the master bedroom with its full bath, as well as a guest bedroom. On the north end of the home is the third bedroom, a laundry room, and 2nd full bath. Just off the kitchen is a bright bonus room with plenty of windows. A great place to relax, read a book, and enjoy the water view. To the right is a Florida Room where you can make the most of our subtropical weather! Let the balmy breezes flow. Most interior spaces of this home have easy-to-maintain ceramic tile floors. Seller says new roof was installed in 2016. Outside there are several open patios in both the front and rear areas of the home and a carport. Along with numerous storage areas and a workshop. There is even a floating dock. Located not far from downtown Dade City and its restaurants, hospital, supermarkets, shopping, parks, etc. Interstate 75 is just a short ride to the west. Reduced to just $199,999! Call today to get more info or arrange a tour. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444  Licensed in Florida.Click on any image below to see a larger version:  John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

This will be my last post concerning Hurricane Dorian. As of 11 AM today, Wednesday, 9/4/2019, Hurricane Dorian is continuing its northern trek and is no longer a threat to most of Florida. It will pass by our northern border soon. The experts now say that it will likely stay just off shore in the Atlantic as it moves more northeasterly in the days to come. From what I hear on the Weather Channel, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina are preparing their coastal areas for high tides and possible flooding. With North Carolina being the most probably landfall site. From reports here, it looks like Florida's east coast had some wind, rain, high waves and a bit of beach erosion. But nothing catastrophic like in the Bahamas. Florida dodged the bullet for sure and we are happy about that. Here in Zephyrhills there was absolutely NOTHING from the storm! Just same old, same old.So take note of reports on the television, radio, and the internet, just in case. It never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes. And if we don't get hit, keep in mind we have until the end of November before the 2019 hurricane season is over. So those supplies you may have purchased for Dorian might still come in handy if another storm comes to call.As I mentioned in previous posts there is a tropical depression forming in the eastern Atlantic named Gabrielle. However they are already predicting its path to go to the northwest and pass east of Bermuda on its way to Canada. So it will be highly unlikely for it to have any effect on us in Florida. You can see it by clicking on the NOAA and the National Hurricane Center link below.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHIf you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue. Hopefully if Dorian passes us by the insurance companies will begin writing policies quickly. Check with your agent for more information.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of 8 PM today, Tuesday, 9/3/2019, Hurricane Dorian's is continuing its northern trek while skirting the east coast of Florida. Though it is still moving slowly, its direction is no longer to the west but to the northwest. Just as the experts had predicted. The experts now say that it will likely stay just off shore in the Atlantic as it moves more north and northeasterly in the days to come. Its track will likely become more NORTH. From what I hear on the Weather Channel, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina are preparing their coastal areas for high tides and possible flooding. With North Carolina being the most probably landfall site.Weather reports and images from the east coast show gusty winds and pretty good wave action. Though nothing like caused the devastation in the Bahamas. The pictures of Abaco look like a nuclear bomb went off. Luckily, it appears that the loss of life was kept to just 5. But now food and water are badly needed there.For us, the hurricane is about level with Melbourne on the east coast of the peninsula. It is not moving quickly, but has weakened some and is at least moving in the right direction for us.So take note of reports on the television, radio, and the internet, just in case. It never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes. And if we don't get hit, keep in mind we have until the end of November before the 2019 hurricane season is over. So those supplies you may have purchased for Dorian might still come in handy if another storm comes to call.There is another depression forming in the eastern Atlantic Ocean near the Cape Verde islands. But its projected path takes it on a northeastern and north of Bermuda. So it would seem that it will not be a problem for us here in Florida.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHIf you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue. Hopefully if Dorian passes us by the insurance companies will begin writing policies quickly. Check with your agent for more information.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of 11 AM today, Tuesday, 9/3/2019, Hurricane Dorian's has finally begun to move away from the Bahamas where it has set and battered them for over a day with winds of over 150 mph. Though it is moving very slowly, its direction is no longer to the west but to the northwest. Just as the experts had predicted. The experts now say that it will likely stay just off shore in the Atlantic as it moves more north and northeasterly in the days to come. Its track will likely become more NORTH. From what I hear on the Weather Channel, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina are preparing their coastal areas for high tides and possible flooding. It would take incredible bad luck if our area of Florida neat Tampa were to receive anything more a bit of typical summer stormy weather. Right now the sun is out and a little shower passed over an hour ago.I still expect that parts of the east coast of Florida will still likely feel some of Dorian's effects as it passes by. High tides, gusty winds, etc. But nothing like they would have received if a Category 4 or 5 hurricane hit them head-on.So take note of reports on the television, radio, and the internet, just in case. It never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes. And if we don't get hit, keep in mind we have until the end of November before the 2019 hurricane season is over. So those supplies you may have purchased for Dorian might still come in handy if another storm comes to call.And there is a depression forming in the eastern Atlantic Ocean near the Cape Verde islands. Let's hope it continues going northeast and does not pay us a visit.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHIf you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue. Hopefully if Dorian passes us by the insurance companies will begin writing policies quickly. Check with your agent for more information.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of 8 AM today, 9/1/2019, Hurricane Dorian's projected path continues to be off the east coast of Florida by quite a few miles. The experts now say that it will likely stay out to sea in the Atlantic as it moves more north and northeasterly on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of this week. Dozens of different projections say this. If you look at the "cone" you will notice that most of western Florida, including Zephyrhills, Pasco County and Tampa are no longer included. That should give us a modicum of relief. Those things could change, the experts say it is unlikely.It should be noted that as I write this the storm is over the northern Bahamas and its winds have strengthened to an incredible 180 miles per hour. Wow! Almost like a gigantic tornado instead of a hurricane. Those islands are so flat, I dread what is happening there at this moment. The forecasters say that the storm's movement is just 5 miles an hour which means the islands could be blasted with these winds for 24 yours possibly! Terrible!I still expect that parts of the east coast of Florida will still likely feel some of Dorian's effects as it passes by. High tides, gusty winds, etc. But nothing like they would have received if a Category 4 or 5 hurricane hit them head-on. It remains to be seen how Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina will fare.So take note of reports on the television, radio, and the internet, just in case. And it never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes. And if we don't get hit, keep in mind we have until the end of November before the 2019 hurricane season is over. So those supplies you may have purchased for Dorian might still come in handy if another storm comes to call.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHIf you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue. Hopefully if Dorian passes us by the insurance companies will begin writing policies quickly. Check with your agent for more information.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of 5 PM today, 8/31/2019, now Hurricane Dorian's projected path has changed drastically since my post of yesterday. The experts now say that it will pass us out to sea in the Atlantic on Monday and Tuesday of next week. If you look at the "cone" you will notice that most of Florida, including Zephyrhills, Pasco County and Tampa are no longer included. One of the reporters on the Weather Channel said that the storm would likely pass Cape Kennedy while 100 miles out into the Atlantic. That is a pretty good buffer zone if it comes true. Most of the models from numerous reporting agencies here and overseas had the storm avoiding Florida for the most part. However, I expect that the east coast will still likely feel some of its effects as it passes by. High tides, gusty winds, etc. But nothing like they would have received if a Category 4 or 5 hurricane had hit them head-on.Though unlikely, changes in its trajectory and strength could still take place. Hurricanes can be funny animals, as I have learned in my many years living in the Sunshine State. But I am optimistic!!So take note of reports on the television, radio, and the internet, just in case. And it never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes. And if we don't get hit, keep in mind we have until the end of November before the 2019 hurricane season is over. So those supplies you may have purchased for Dorian might still come in handy if another storm comes to call.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHIf you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue. Hopefully if Dorian passes us by the insurance companies will begin writing policies quickly. Check with your agent for more information.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of 5 PM today, 8/30/2019, now Hurricane Dorian continues its west northwest track with a predicted landfall in south Florida early Tuesday morning. However, this latest update shows that the center line of the cone is now over the eastern coastline of Florida rather than up the center of the state. Could it be that this storm will curve back out to sea?? At the moment it is over open warm water and that only adds fuel to the storm's strength. It is now considered a major storm, and they say it will be the same when it comes ashore. Once it reaches land, normally its strength will diminish somewhat as the friction of the land and the lack of warm water saps some of its power, normally. That is not to say it cannot be dangerous. But the more land it has to go over, the more "friction" should slow its winds.But changes in its trajectory and strength could take place again between now and Tuesday. It could still hit us or avoid us altogether. You just never know and need to prepare for the worst.  Below you can download a Hurricane Tracking Map you can use to keep track of Dorian.Good news for us in our area near Zephyrhills and Pasco County is that the storm looks like it will hit on the east coast and so we will probably not get the worst of it since as it passes over land the friction should weaken it somewhat. And here in Zephyrhills, we do not have to worry about tidal surges from the ocean like they do on the coasts.That does not mean to take things lightly. We still will get some pretty good winds and lots of rain. And low lying areas can have some flooding, though not the kind they have in areas with big rivers and hills. During the last major storm we had a couple of years ago, the worst problem was that some of us had no electricity for several days. Tree limbs on power lines. My mom's home never lost it. But 1/2 mile away at my home I was without it for 5 days. She lives near the hospital so they get top priority for having their power restored.So take note of reports on the television, radio, and the internet. And it never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHDo keep in mind that wind directions have been known to change. I have even seen storms do loop-the-loops and come right back over the same area. So the trajectory of this storm could change. Hopefully it will miss us altogether. You never can tell this far out. But it pays to be alert and take cautious steps to prepare. Just in case!We surely will be getting some precipitation out of it and windy days are probably in our future. The rain could be a problem since our ground is already saturated. Even though it is sandy here, the ground can still only absorb so much moisture and then it starts to accumulate on the surface. Some areas could see some local flooding if the rains are heavy this week. We will have to wait and see.If you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of today, 8/30/2019, now Hurricane Dorian continues its west northwest track with a predicted landfall in south Florida early Tuesday morning. It is over open warm water and that only adds fuel to the storm's strength. It is now considered a major storm, and they say it will be the same when it comes ashore. Once it reaches land, normally its strength will diminish somewhat as the friction of the land and the lack of warm water saps some of its power, normally. That is not to say it cannot be dangerous. From the current predictions it looks like it will hit in the south and move up the peninsula losing some of its wallop before it gets to Zephyrhills and the Tampa area. But changes in its trajectory and strength could take place again between now and Tuesday. It could still avoid us altogether. You just never know and need to prepare for the worst.  Below you can download a Hurricane Tracking Map you can use to keep track of Dorian.We are still several days away from a Florida landfall. But if you look at its trajectory you will note that the state is in the "bulls eye". Good news for us in our area near Zephyrhills and Pasco County is that the storm looks like it will hit on the east coast and so we will probably not get the worst of the storm since as it passes over land the friction should weaken it somewhat. And here in Zephyrhills, we do not have to worry about tidal surges from the ocean like they do on the coasts. That does not mean to take things lightly. We still will get some pretty good winds and lots of rain. And low lying areas can have some flooding, though not the kind they have in areas with big rivers and hills. During the last major storm we had a couple of years ago, the worst problem was that some of us had no electricity for several days. Tree limbs on power lines. My mom's home never lost it. But 1/2 mile away at my home I was without it for 5 days. She lives near the hospital so they get top priority for having their power restored.So take note of reports on the television, radio, and the internet. And it never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHDo keep in mind that wind directions have been known to change. I have even seen storms do loop-the-loops and come right back over the same area. So the trajectory of this storm could change. Hopefully it will miss us altogether. You never can tell this far out. But it pays to be alert and take cautious steps to prepare. Just in case!We surely will be getting some precipitation out of it and windy days are probably in our future. The rain could be a problem since our ground is already saturated. Even though it is sandy here, the ground can still only absorb so much moisture and then it starts to accumulate on the surface. Some areas could see some local flooding if the rains are heavy this week. We will have to wait and see.If you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of today, 8/28/2019, Tropical Storm Dorian's has changed. As you can see above it has shifted to the north and now appears to just barely brush the eastern side of Puerto Rico before heading over mostly open water east of the Bahamas. This warmer water looks like it will add strength to the storm since now it is predicted to become a MAJOR hurricane by Sunday morning, September 1st. Nice Labor Day gift, right?? However, the change that took place last night changed things a lot. And changes could take place again between now and Sunday. Below you can download a Hurricane Tracking Map you can use to keep track of Dorian.We are still several days away from a Florida landfall. But if you look at its trajectory you will note that the state is in the "bulls eye". Good news for us in our area near Zephyrhills and Pasco County is that the storm looks like it will hit on the east coast and so we will probably not get the worst of the storm since as it passes over land the friction should weaken it somewhat. And here in Zephyrhills, we do not have to worry about tidal surges from the ocean like they do on the coasts. That does not mean to take things lightly. We still will get some pretty good winds and rain. And low lying areas can have some flooding, though not the kind they have in areas with big rivers and hills. During the last storm we had a couple of years ago, the worst problem was that some of us had no electricity for several days. My mom's home never lost it. But 1/2 mile away at my home I was without it for 5 days.So do take note and be aware of reports on the television, radio, and internet. And it never hurts to pay attention and follow the paths of any approaching storms. Especially if they happen to be hurricanes.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHDo keep in mind that wind directions have been known to change. I have even seen storms do loop-the-loops and come right back over the same area. So the trajectory of this storm could change. Hopefully it will miss us altogether. You never can tell this far out. But it pays to be alert and take cautious steps to prepare. Just in case!We surely will be getting some precipitation out of it and windy days are probably in our future. The rain could be a problem since our ground is already saturated. Even though it is sandy here, the ground can still only absorb so much moisture and then it starts to accumulate on the surface. Some areas could see some local flooding if the rains are heavy this week. We will have to wait and see.If you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of today, 8/27/2019, Tropical Storm Dorian has passed Antigua and Barbados and continues on a projected northwest path. We are still several days away from any Florida landfall, if it makes it as far as here. But if you look at its trajectory, you will note that the National Hurricane Center is predicting that it will remain a tropical storm for now. However, as in the past, these storms can be unpredictable and can strengthen quickly. It does appear to go over Puerto Rico and they certainly don't need more problems from the weather. I hope they are luckier this time than they were a few years ago.Here in Florida, normally a tropical storm is not a big problem. Lots of rain, some gusty winds, and perhaps some damage to trees and homes. But nothing like a hurricane. But, that said, we are in the middle of the 2019 Hurricane Season and it does not hurt to prepare for the worst. Dorian may be just a passing thunderstorm. But the next named storm could be much worse. So do take note. And it never hurts to pay attention to local television advisories and follow the paths of approaching storms.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm above indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that point in time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHDo keep in mind that wind directions have been known to change. I have even seen storms do loop-the-loops and come right back over the same area. So the trajectory of this storm could change. Hopefully it will miss us altogether. You never can tell this far out. But it pays to be alert and take cautious steps to prepare. Just in case!We surely will be getting some precipitation out of it and windy days are probably in our future. The rain could be a problem since our ground is already saturated. Even though it is sandy here, the ground can still only absorb so much moisture and then it starts to accumulate on the surface. Some areas could see some local flooding if the rains are heavy this week. We will have to wait and see.If you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents here use, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there that might protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2011 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry! I invite you to visit my webpage at: http://www.johnelwell.c21.com/ where you will find links to many interesting sites dealing with real estate. You are always welcome there. JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

When I opened my mailbox today (8/19/2019), I found a letter from Gary Joiner, the Pasco County Property Appraiser of the county where I live, telling me what my proposed property taxes for 2019 would likely be. Probably most of Florida's residents are also receiving these notices, also called Truth in Millage (TRIM). notices. It is worth your while to closely examine the one that pertains to the property(s) that you own.The notice will show you 3 main things: What your property taxes were last year. What they will be this year if proposed budget changes are not made. What they will be if proposed budget changes are made. At the top of this post you will see the front of a typical TRIM notice from Pasco County. You can also click on the following link to see a PDF copy of my TRIM notice that also includes the explanations on the reverse of the page: Download 2019 TRIM NoticeSome of you will notice that even if the budget does not change, your taxes could change. This is likely due to a change in the assessed value of your home. If its value went down, this often helps to lower your taxes. If the value of your home goes up then your taxes may go up. I noticed that this year my value went up a bit. That could be due to the improving housing market, and may or may not happen to your home.Something that often confuses residents is that we pay our property taxes "in arrears" here. So what we paid last winter were the taxes for 2013. We have not yet received the bills for this current year, 2014. Those will arrive in November and will not be overdue until well after the New Year.Your taxes can also go up or down depending on the MILLAGE rate. That is the amount you pay for each $1,000 of assessed value. So, for example, if your home is assessed at $60,000 by the county for taxing purposes and the millage is $20 per thousand of value - $20 X 60 = $1,200 property taxes, plus any special fees the county assesses.There is a section on the left-hand side in the center where you can see what the county said your home was worth for taxing purposes (not necessarily its resale value) last year and this year. As I said, mine went up a little, and therefore it looks like my taxes may be a little higher this year. That may or may not be the case with your property. All properties are at least slightly different in some ways.And if you qualify, there are exemptions that can lower the assessed value of your property and therefore the amount of your taxes. The Homestead Exemption is one of the best known of these.The top section of the page (at least in Pasco County, your county's may be different) shows where your tax money will go, such as: Public schools City taxes (If you live in an incorporated city like Zephyrhills or Dade City) Water Management District Independent Special Districts Voter Approved Debt Payments Keep in mind that there are also fees, not taxes, that we often have to pay that are not calculated using our homes' assessed values. For example: street lights, solid waste management, Community Development District Fees (CDD's), etc. On the above bill you can see such a special fee in the amount of $72 for County Solid Waste costs.The notices also will tell you where and when the various public hearings on the different budgets will take place. Remember there are school budgets, city budgets, county budgets, etc. Not just one budget that covers everything we are taxed for.On the back of Pasco County's TRIM page there is an Explanation Sheet that is very informative. On that same sheet there are contact phone numbers that you can call to get more information about your taxes. If you feel your taxes are too high, you can appeal them and this sheet also explains that process. Do not delay, you do not have forever to do this. As an alternative, you can also go to the Appraiser's office in person. The addresses of all of the offices are listed on the information brochure.So keep an eye on your mailbox. If you do not receive your TRIM notice this week and you own property in Florida, you may want to call your county property appraiser's office and see what is going on. If you are unsure how to find your county's appraiser, you can go to: https://floridarevenue.com/property/Pages/LocalOfficials.aspx and go to your county to find how to contact your county's property appraiser. All appraisers in the State of Florida should be here.If I can be of further assistance, do not hesitate to contact me at: 813-783-4444 or e-mail me at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com  JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. in Zephyrhills, Florida.John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

Here in Zephyrhills, Florida, many of our winter residents have now returned. Often their families are back in northern states. This is also true for our permanent residents. So many subdivisions like Spanish Trails Village, a 55+ subdivision, have potluck dinners on special occasions and holidays. For Christmas and Thanksgiving they have a traditional turkey dinner with all of the fixings. Residents contribute a dish to the feast and for the past 4 years, I have purchased the turkeys/hams for the dinner. I also do this for Colony Hills, South Hill and Zephyr Shores subdivisions. As you can see by the pictures all participants enjoyed themselves and we all ate too much. So much nicer than eating alone at home! This is one of the special features of living in a 55+ community. There is a much more social and friendly atmosphere that can truly improve one's quality of life! My mom lives there and her life is certainly much nicer than it was living in a house all alone in the country! :) John Elwell - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444.Click on any image below to see a larger version: John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

Florida's students and teachers have returned to their classes in the public schools of Pasco County, Florida for the 2018-2019 academic year. I suspect that this will be the case in nearly every county in the State of Florida. When I was teaching here two decades ago, we started after Labor Day. And many schools around the country still do. But several years ago, statewide exams were created and it was felt that more time was needed to prepare for them. So the beginning of the school year was moved up by several weeks.In any case, there will be more children and school buses on the streets and roads. So you will need to be more alert when driving. Traffic will likely be slower during the morning and afternoon hours when the buses are on the road.Add to this the fact that warning lights near schools will be flashing to tell you to drop your speed to just 15 miles per hour. And trust me, you had better reduce your speed! If you don't, you will likely find a friendly patrol car with radar sitting nearby whose occupant will be only too glad to give you a ticket. Warnings are a thing of the past, and the fines will "curl your hair". More importantly, driving slower will avoid the tragedy of an accident involving a student or a bus. No one wants to be the cause of that. So keep an eye out for the little ones and the not-so-little ones on the streets for the next 10 months. Plan your travel times so that you will avoid sitting in a long line behind a bus. If you live here you will quickly learn when there will be fewer buses on the streets and when they will be in operation. If you can stay out of traffic during those "rush" times, you will likely get to where you need to go a little faster.So, let's make sure that the youngsters (and their teachers) arrive at school and back home safely. Remember, we were all students, once upon a time!Posted by JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444. E-mail: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com Licensed in Florida.John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of today, 9/8/2017, Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 storm, is about to skim over the northern coast of Cuba and then take a right turn and head directly up the Florida peninsula in a northerny trajectory. It had been thought that it would go up along the eastern coast of the state, but this afternoon the projections show it going further west. Now it appears that the eye will go up the middle of the state. Warnings and watches are up all the way to Tampa, mostly for storm surge and flooding. However, they say that very high winds will affect even the center of the state.Mobile home residents have been told to go to shelters. My mom lives in Spanish Trails here in Zephyrhills and she and her dog Daisy will be spending Saturday and Sunday night with me in my sturdy little home. It is still a day away and its path could change. I would love it to go even further west now. The current model that you see above has the eye going right over my area! Hopefully by the time it has traveled over land for a few hundred miles its wind speeds will have diminished a bit. Fingers crossed. If you click on the picture above, you will see a larger version of it.My biggest worry is that we will lose electrical power. And due to the massive devastation that could occur throughout the state, it could be off for several days here. More in harder hit areas. How would you like to be without refrigeration or air-conditioning in early September??? Not a pretty picture.This storm definitely bears watching. Keep yourselves up-to-date via the internet, TV, and radio. Don't wait until the last minute. Hopefully we will be lucky once again and things won't be so bad. We have lucked out before and I am hoping that our troubles will be minor this time too. Time will tell.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHDo keep in mind that the storm is still several days away, and wind directions have been known to change. I have even seen storms do loop-the-loops and come right back over the same area. So the trajectory of this storm could change. It could miss us altogether. You never can tell this far out. But it pays to be alert and take cautious steps to prepare. Just in case!If you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents use here, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there to protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue.So far we have had a pretty quiet 2017 hurricane season in Florida, with no major storms making landfall here. We do seem to be getting more rain than we normally do at this time of the year, but this very much resembles the weather patterns that took place all the time up until the late 1980's when a VERY long dry spell took place. So these nice showers are very welcome and have helped cut down on wildfires. The landscapes around Zephyrhills sure is looking nice and green. And many are saving money on irrigation.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2016 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry!JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

As of today, 9/5/2017, Hurricane Irma, a Category 5 storm, is projected to move along the northern Caribbean Sea touching the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Haiti and the Dominican Republic. If it continues along this path it looks like it will go directly over the Florida Keys and then move into the Gulf of Mexico. As you can see in the above image, its projected path has it moving in more or less a westerly direction, with its center going over the Keys on Sunday afternoon. That is still a few days off and its path could change. The most northern fringe of the cone even touches Zephyrhills where I live. Though the edges of the cone should not get nearly the damage that the center does. Even if it does not go right over us, I imagine we can expect some rain from the outer bands and perhaps some gusty winds. That won't be too bad if the rains are not heavy. We will just have to wait and see. I did go to the supermarket today and noticed that all of the bottled water was gone. Same at Walgreens and CVS.This storm definitely bears watching. Keep yourselves up-to-date via the internet, TV, and radio. Don't wait until the last minute. I went out today to get some more canned goods and bottled water, just in case. Even if we don't get hit, I can always eat baked beans this winter! Hopefully we will be lucky once again and Irma will pass us by. Being ignored by a hurricane is a VERY good thing. But even if it misses us, there is a chance it will hit other states. Hopefully it will avoid Texas since they already had enough trouble last week with Hurricane Harvey. They don't need more problems. But their residents should also keep up-to-date concerning Hurricane Irma, just in case.The letter inside the dot on the track of the storm indicates the National Hurricane Center's forecast intensity for that time: D: Tropical Depression – wind speed less than 39 MPHS: Tropical Storm – wind speed between 39 MPH and 73 MPHH: Hurricane – wind speed between 74 MPH and 110 MPHM: Major Hurricane – wind speed greater than 110 MPHDo keep in mind that the storm is still several days away, and wind directions have been known to change. I have even seen storms do loop-the-loops and come right back over the same area. So the trajectory of this storm could change. It could miss us altogether. You never can tell this far out. But it pays to be alert and take cautious steps to prepare. Just in case!If you are in the process of closing on a home sale in the next few days, do be aware that once a storm warning is issued for any part of the state of Florida, it is likely that ALL insurance companies will stop writing new policies until the storm's threat has passed. So if you have not already obtained a binder on your insurance coverage, speak with your real estate agent immediately about what is happening. If you used one of the Florida purchase agreements that most agents use here, there is specific language concerning hurricanes and underwriting moratoriums that is there to protect you from having to purchase an uninsured home. And if you are financing the purchase, keep in mind that your bank WILL NOT fund your loan if there is no proof of adequate insurance coverage on the home. See your agent for more information concerning this issue.So far we have had a pretty quiet 2017 hurricane season in Florida, with no major storms making landfall here. We do seem to be getting more rain than we normally do at this time of the year, but this very much resembles the weather patterns that took place all the time up until the late 1980's when a VERY long dry spell took place. So these nice showers are very welcome and have helped cut down on wildfires. The landscapes around Zephyrhills sure is looking nice and green. And many are saving money on irrigation.Much of my information comes from the National Hurricane Center. They follow tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes from birth to death. It can be a useful site to visit. If you would like to try it out, click on the following link: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov I suggest you "bookmark it" or "make it a Favorite" for future reference if you live in an area that can be affected by tropical storms or hurricanes. You will find it interesting and helpful to track the path of each storm. You can also download a Hurricane Tracking Map by clicking on the following link: TRACKING MAPI will also try to update my weblog with new posts if it appears that a hurricane or another major storm will make landfall in our area. So come back here to check if you want to. But the TV, radio, and internet will have the most up-to-date information available.You can also find out how to prepare for hurricanes and other disasters at the following state site: http://www.floridadisaster.org/ Do not wait until a storm is upon us to prepare your home and family. Hopefully we will make it through 2016 with no major storms paying us a visit, but you never know. Better safe than sorry!JOHN ELWELL - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. Licensed in FloridaI can also be contacted anytime via e-mail at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com or by phone at: 813-783-4444Image from NOAAJohn Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

Not long ago I opened my mailbox and found a letter from Gary Joiner, the new Pasco County Property Appraiser where I live, telling me what my proposed property taxes for 2017 would likely be. Probably most of Florida's residents are also receiving these notices, also called Truth in Millage (TRIM) notices. It is worth your while to closely examine the one that pertains to the property(s) that you own.The notice will first show you 3 main things: What your property taxes were last year. What they will be this year if proposed budget changes are not made. What they will be if proposed budget changes are made. At the top of my post you will see the front of a typical TRIM notice from Pasco County that you can click on and open as a picture. You may need to increase or decrease the view size to see them properly. 100% or 150% is usually enough to make them easily legible. But use whatever works best for your computer screen.You can also click on the following link to download a PDF version of the TRIM notice, front and back:  Download TRIM Notice Example for 2017Some of you will notice that even if the budget does not change, your taxes could change. This is likely due to a change in the assessed value of your home. If its value went down, this often helps to lower your taxes. If the value of your home goes up then your taxes may go up. I noticed that this year my value went up a bit. That could be due to the improving housing market, and may or may not happen to your home.Something that often confuses residents is that we pay our property taxes "in arrears" here. So what we paid last winter were the taxes for 2016. We have not yet received the bills for this current year, 2017. Those bills will arrive in November and will not be overdue until well after the New Year.Your taxes can also go up or down depending on the MILLAGE rate. That is the amount you pay for each $1,000 of assessed value. So, for example, if your home is assessed at $60,000 by the county for taxing purposes and the millage is $20 per thousand of value - $20 X 60 = $1,200 property taxes, plus any special fees the county assesses.There is a section on the left-hand side in the center where you can see what the county said your home was worth for taxing purposes (not necessarily its resale value) last year and this year. As I said, mine went up a little, and therefore it looks like my taxes may be a little higher this year. That may or may not be the case with your property. All properties are at least slightly different in some ways.And if you qualify, there are exemptions that can lower the assessed value of your property and therefore the amount of your taxes. The Homestead Exemption is one of the best known of these.The top section of the page (at least in Pasco County, your county's may be different) shows where your tax money will go, such as: Public schools City taxes (If you live in an incorporated city like Zephyrhills or Dade City) Water Management District Independent Special Districts Voter Approved Debt Payments Keep in mind that there are also fees/assessments, not taxes, that we often have to pay that are not calculated using our homes' assessed values. For example: street lights, solid waste management, Community Development District Fees (CDD's), etc. On the above bill you can see such a special fee for 2017 in the amount of $65 for County Solid Waste costs.The notices also will tell you where and when the various public hearings on the different budgets will take place. Remember there are school budgets, city budgets, county budgets, etc. Not just one budget that covers everything we are taxed for.On the back of Pasco County's TRIM page there is an Explanation Sheet that is very informative. On that same sheet there are contact phone numbers that you can call to get more information about your taxes. If you feel your taxes are too high, you can appeal them and this sheet also explains that process. Do not delay, you do not have forever to do this. As an alternative, you can also go to the Appraiser's office in person. The addresses of all of the offices are listed on the information brochure.So keep an eye on your mailbox. If you did not receive your TRIM notice and you own property in Florida, you may want to call your county property appraiser's office and see what is going on. If you are unsure how to find your county's appraiser, you should be able to easily locate them on the internet via a basic Google or Yahoo search.If I can be of further assistance, do not hesitate to contact me at: 813-783-4444 or e-mail me at: jelwell1@tampabay.rr.com . John Elwell - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. in Zephyrhills, Florida.John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

This annual event is very popular and draws a large crowd in Dade City, Florida. Especially now that the schools are out for summer. They not only have a fireworks display after dark. But they also have tons of activities for the whole family to enjoy. These include: bounce houses Elvis tribute Karaoke watermelon eating contest pony rides petting zoo food court hotdog eating contest and more Activities begin at the Fairground at 4 PM. To get full information, including driving instructions, click on the following link: Sparklebration 2017 InformationThe weather is great so get out there and enjoy our nation's birthday. Hope to see you there.John Elwell - REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

Not long ago I got a letter from the Florida State Retirement Office. It appears that since I worked for 9 years in the public school system here in Pasco County, I could now start collecting early retirement if I want to. It is not a lot of money since I only taught 9 years here, and 12 years in Spain which don't count. However, a few hundred dollars each month is still better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick.Many people do not realize that mobile homes also have a retirement option, and I don't mean demolition. A lot of consumers are not cognizant of the fact that mobile homes have titles just like your cars, trucks or motorcycles do. At least in Florida they are treated just like recreational vehicles (RV's). A single-wide mobile home has 1 title, a double-wide has 2, and a triple-wide has 3.The problem is that these "vehicles" are residences. When they are located on a lot that you own, they can be financed for up to 30 years. During that time the lender holds the actual paper titles showing that they have an interest in the property. Here is the problem, over the course of the mortgage, the loan may be sold to several different lenders. This is very common. It would be very unusual for you to have the same lender for the entire length of the loan.As the loan is sold to each new lender, the titles are supposed to be passed on to them. But guess what? Somewhere along the line the titles get lost. It happens all the time. So when the homeowner finally sells the home, he has to pay for duplicate titles since the bank cannot/will not produce them. That used to be a minor cost, but now our great state of Florida has increased it to nearly $300 for a double-wide mobile! Fees may be different in your state.To avoid this situation, many banks are now requiring that when they lend money on a mobile home on its own land, that the titles are "retired" by the title company handling the closing. This means that the paper titles are destroyed and the mobile is forever attached to that property.The benefits are that there are no longer paper titles to be lost by the bank or the owners, no need to ever pay for duplicate titles, and future buyers will not have to pay for any title transfer fees since there are no longer any paper titles to transfer. Trust me, a lot less ha$$le$. On the downside, there is a one-time cost of $300 to retire the titles. This is unavoidable if the lender requires it. If a buyer is paying cash, then he/she can decide whether or not to retire the titles or not. Some will still choose to rid themselves of having to guard paper titles.The choice is up to the cash buyers/owners. Too often I have sellers who cannot locate the titles to their homes. My own mother lost hers and had to get replacements that cost her $300! So it is something to consider. Each situation is different and only you can decide which is best for you, if the choice is yours.**If you are still uncertain about the legal ramifications of retiring the mobile home titles for your particular situation, it is best to seek legal advice from a real estate attorney who can give you specific information you can use to help you make great choices.**NOTE: The above post is only relevant for mobile homes that are on lots that the occupants own. It is not meant for people who own a mobile home BUT rent the lot. Those are treated very differently and ARE NOT considered to be "real estate". For more information about that, you can see my previous post about rental and owned lots in mobile home parks by: CLICKING HEREIf you have any questions concerning this issue or any other real estate topic, do not hesitate to contact me at: John Elwell - Sales Associate at CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444.John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida

John Elwell - REALTOR CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc. 813-783-4444 Licensed in Florida