Ashley Brinson Cusak

Miami Real Estate Market: From a Spark to a Flame

The Miami Herald ran a very positive article last weekend about the real estate market and the boom we’re entering. Did you know that we sold almost 25,000 homes & condos last year in Miami-Dade County? That’s a 46% increase over 2010 and a 4% increase over 2005, the height of the boom. Compared to 2010, condo sales were up 54% last year and home sales were up 36%. In December alone, we had huge jumps over the year before, while nationally sales were down 2%. Distressed sales were the driving force behind much of our frenzy, with international buyers playing a large part. Interestingly, cash sales accounted for almost 60% of 2011’s sales! Our prices are still holding steady, but hopefully with this resurgence of interest in our market, they will start to rebound soon. Inventory is down. Demand is clearly up. This market is hot!

Tags: miami distressed sales, Miami real estate, real estate boom, the miami herald

Growing in Grace at St. Thomas Episcopal Church!

I used to take a wonderful parenting class that you’ve probably heard of called Growing in Grace, taught by Sue Nichols and Laura Walker. As life got busy and my kids got older I stopped taking it, but I truly miss them! They spoke today at St. Thomas, my children’s school, and it reminded me about how great their classes are – always fun, witty and full of advice on how to raise hearty kids today. I’m a member of St. Thomas Church and was thrilled to learn that they are going to be at the church for the next four Sundays from 9-10am teaching their class and reflecting on a great book called, “The Blessings of a Skinned Knee.” Regardless of your religion, beliefs or faith, there is a lot to be gained from hearing what Sue and Laura have to say. I encourage you to come and be a part of these classes and then join us for church at 10:00. Come experience Growing in Grace and St. Thomas Episcopal Church!

Tags: Coral Gables Episcopal Church, Growing in Grace, Laura Walker, St. Thomas Episcopal Church, St. Thomas Episcopal School, Sue Nichols

Banking on a Closing

Last year we were much more successful in closing deals involving mortgages than we’ve been in the past– the banks have let up a little on their strict 2010 policies! Loans are being approved again, appraisals are coming in and banks are loosening up. However, it’s important for buyers to know what guidelines your bank follows ahead of time to make sure you meet their criteria, because all banks don’t work for all buyers. We recently had a VERY qualified buyer who didn’t “fit in the box” of a particular bank they chose because of the bank’s strict guidelines. Late in the process we discovered they were declined! Knowing their situation, a local bank got involved that had different guidelines perfectly suited for these buyers. The deal was put together in a matter of days and they now own the house! BUYERS: Do your homework and feel free to call me for financing advice!

Tags: appraisals, bank guidelines, buyers, financing, mortgages, qualifying for a mortgage

New Listing in South Miami ~ Open tomorrow from 12 – 2 ~ 7930 SW 57 Court

I just listed a fabulous new home in South Miami yesterday that will be held open tomorrow from 12:00 to 2:00. Please come preview this special Key West style contemporary home! Built in 2004, it is conveniently located in the City of South Miami and has 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The home offers an open floorplan with a wonderful gourmet kitchen that includes granite counters, stainless steel appliances, a 6-burner gas range and vent hood. The home also features impact doors and windows throughout, spacious front and back porches with travertine floors, a quarried keystone fireplace and 16’ vaulted ceilings in the living areas. An oversized saline pool with jetted swim outs and a wading pool stage the oversized 13,500 square foot lot with exotic mature palms and fruit trees. Also includes a 2-car garage and laundry room.

There are currently only 3 other homes in the City of South Miami listed between $800,000 and $1,200,000. Here’s a list of all these South Miami homes.

For more information about South Miami real estate, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Tags: 33143 real estate, 7930 SW 57 Court, City of South Miami, Listings in South Miami, south miami real estate, Victoria Place

Beaux Arts Festival of Art this Weekend!

Looking for something to do this weekend that is fun for the whole family and free?  Come to the 61st Annual Beaux Art Festival of Arts on the University of Miami’s campus! The festival is open Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 5.  As many of you know, I’ve been a volunteer and supporter of Beaux Arts for many years.  It is a wonderful volunteer organization that supports the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami. The funds we raise go towards providing arts education for kids and support for the museum’s collections.

We are looking forward to a great weekend with over 240 juried artists, fabulous dining options, live eclectic music and children’s art experiences. There is also an incredible Student Artist Showcase featuring art from students all over Miami-Dade County. There’s something for everyone! I hope to see you there!

To learn more about this weekend’s festival, click here!

Tags: Beaux Arts, Beaux Arts Festival of Art, Coral Gables art show, Lowe Art Museum, Miami art show, University of Miami