Homebuyers get creative to close deal

When Efrain Hernandez couldn’t seal a deal before the first-time homebuyer tax credit expired earlier this year, he lost faith he would ever own a house in a market where investors and all-cash buyers are snapping up bargains and mortgages seem hard to come by. But waiting — even though it wasn’t by choice — …

Sanibel and Captiva become paradise for buyers

Sanibel and Captiva become paradise for buyers For Sale: Two world-renowned islands in Lee County. The price? Dirt cheap. Prices on houses and condominiums on Sanibel and Captiva have dropped to their lowest levels in almost a decade. And there are many for sale: more than 16 percent of properties on Captiva and 8 percent …

Miami Beach mansion sells for $16 million

Miami Beach mansion sells for $16 million A German businessman has paid $16 million for a Miami Beach mansion completed just weeks into the global financial crisis. The 17,200-square-foot residence at 88 La Gorce Circle comes with two docks, a staff house, a five-car garage. marble staircase and an elevator. Seller Todd Glaser, a developer, …

Boynton Beach condo closes two sales, vows to hang in

Boynton Beach condo closes two sales, vows to hang in This past weekend, officials with the Promenade condominium had reason to celebrate. Nine months after the Boynton Beach condo was completed, they finally closed two condo sales. “Kids were swimming in the pool this weekend,” said Promenade official Pryse Elam. It’s been a long time …

Many South Florida home sellers still asking too much

Many South Florida home sellers still asking too much Despite months of declining home prices, new data shows that South Florida sellers are still asking too much for their homes, then slashing prices when they don’t sell — a sign that buyers and sellers are still struggling to define fair market value in the aftermath …

Dezer Properties takes stake in Sunny Isles Beach Trump Towers

Dezer Properties takes stake in Sunny Isles Beach Trump Towers As the Related Group unwinds projects, Dezer Properties has taken over the Miami mega-condo developer’s ownership stake at Trump Towers in Sunny Isles Beach and is assuming the remaining debt on the property. Condominium prices are being cut by at least 30 percent at the …