Fort Lauderdale Offers Plenty Of Waterfront Properties
by Blanche Evans
Fort Lauderdale, Florida is often called the "Venice of America," and it has the active home sales to prove it. "Florida real estate is booming," exclaims Realtor Maria Galligan. "The average single-family home is appreciating approximately 18 percent per year. Broward County is almost totally built out with almost no more vacant land for builders to develop. The trend is moving east and old homes are being either torn down or majorly renovated. Developers are very active in high-rise condos and townhouses. The feeling is that this trend is going to continue for quite some time and the costs will keep rising. Investors are buying pre-construction and making a tidy profit at time of completion when they re-sell." Says Realtor Karen Dove, "The Ft. Lauderdale area is fabulous! There's water everywhere you look! Beaches, the intracoastal, canals leading to the new river that leads to Port Everglades." About the market, Dove says, "Last month's statistics show prices are up again, 12-17 percent from this time last year. Sales remain brisk for properly priced homes, condos and townhomes. Our prices are up over last year across the board, so even with interest rates up slightly your dollar will still go further, than in past years. "Known as the Venice of America," she says, "many of our waterfront homes and condos offer docks and wonderful wide waterviews, all with ocean access for the diver, fishing fanatic and those who just love being on the sea. Fort Lauderdale offers a wide choice of both new and resale moderate and luxury townhomes, condos and villas. The city has revitalized the downtown shopping and dining core. So more options of entertainment, dining, and shopping are nearby. The beach area also offers luxury high-rise condominiums; both new and resale. The east areas offer Old Florida charm and many diverse architectural styles. The values on the re-sale of existing condos and homes has held steady, with upward movement in pricing. Some good values can still be had west of I-95 and the Florida Turnpike. The homes are more affordable in these areas. Many offer A+ school districts as well. If you're looking for a big city arts and entertainment with a smaller town atmosphere, Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding communities may be the place for you to call home!" "The Fort Lauderdale real estate market continues to remain strong as evidenced by the number of buyers still seeking a new home here," says Realtor Leanne Valdes. "The very low interest rates have a lot to do with this. A few new upscale condo buildings are in the process of being built -- all are selling at a quick pace. If you're searching for a home and find one that fits your wants and needs but perhaps just needs a little work, don't hesitate for too long before placing an offer or someone else may beat you to it. Homes that are in good condition and are priced correctly tend to sell quickly. As vacant land is becoming more scarce every year, property values in general are increasing throughout the Greater Fort Lauderdale area." | 
