NARROWING YOUR HOME SEARCH

By Patti Kirsch

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If you are torn between buying a home in a charming older neighborhood or a spacious home in a new subdivision you may need help in making your choice. To decide between an old versus new neighborhood, first think about the style of house you prefer and then think about your day-to-day lifestyle. Do you appreciate hand-beveled hardwood floors or is stain-resistant carpet more your style? You will also want to consider the following:

• Cost - Older homes can have unique charm, but you may have to budget for higher maintenance costs, while newer homes are often more energy-efficient.

• Style - While older homes may be roomier, newer homes often have a more open layout, more bathrooms and convenient features such as central air,

• Location - Older homes are often in neighborhoods with shaded sidewalks, varied home styles, and lower taxes. Newer homes offer suburban benefits, but may have longer commutes.

Whether looking for an older or newer property, call me for more information - Patti Kirsch, Jack Bradley Realty Co. 419-656-1781 or 419-734-5551. As your real estate professional, I will be happy to assist you with all of your real estate needs, in the Port Clinton, Catawba, Marblehead, Oak Harbor, Fremont and surrounding areas.

FINDING A PLACE TO CALL HOME

by Debi Bentlage
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Buying a first home, or deciding to move up, is an important decision and because you want to make the right decision, you want to ask the right questions.

Two questions to consider before you begin the process of finding a home are:

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“How much home can you afford?” and "How do you find the right home?”

The real answer to the affordability question is how much home a lender calculates you can afford—and the bottom line is the monthly payment. A general guideline is that a monthly payment shouldn’t be higher than 28 percent of your gross monthly income, or total monthly expenses should not exceed 36 percent, but you must also feel comfortable with that payment.

Lenders use a variety of formulas for arriving at the total monthly housing costs and how they qualify an individual for a home mortgage. These costs generally include mortgage principal and interest payment, property taxes, and hazard insurance, and if required, mortgage insurance.

Also keep in mind the First Time Home Buyer’s tax credit of $8000. This incentive expires on Dec. 1, 2009.

As a buyer, you can help make the process of finding a home go more smoothly if you spend some time defining the general style of home you prefer, and any particular needs you may have for that home to fit your lifestyle. You need to establish your priorities on such elements as the kind of kitchen you want, or if you want an open floor plan, formal dining room, basement or garage. The kind and extent of yard is also something to consider, as is the neighborhood, and whether you are willing to negotiate on any of your style preferences.

A Realtor can help in answering ALL of your questions, and guide you through one of the most important decisions of your life.

Let’s get started on making your dreams a reality!

For information on real estate in the Port Clinton, Catawba, Marblehead, Oak Harbor and surrounding areas, call Debi Bentlage, Jack Bradley Realty Co. 1-419-276-7755 or 419-734-5551.

KEEPING YOUR DOG SAFE IN THE HEAT

By Deanna Johnson

When the mercury rises, it’s time to pay special attention to your pet’s health and safety.

You probably treat your dog like any other family member. So making sure he is comfortable and safe at all times — especially during the hottest months — is probably a top concern. Here are a few tips to keep your four-legged friend happy and healthy.

Never leave your dog or any animal in the car when the weather is hot —warm. The interior temperature of your car can easily soar to 120 degrees in just minutes. Even if you leave the windows cracked, the temperature in the car can sour to a dangerous level.

Don’t let your dog ride in the bed of a pick- up truck. Serious eye injuries can occur from a flying debris, or your dog could even fall out

Keep your dog away from fertilizers, plant foods and insecticides. They can be fatal if your pet ingests them. Don’t let your pet walk or play on a recently treated lawn.

Make sure your pet always wears an ID tag. Even if your dog has an embedded identification chip, make sure he has a tag so that identification can be made quickly. It’s also a good idea to keep a current picture of your pet with you. That way, if he disappears or wanders off you have a photo on hand to show people.

Give your dog prescription heartworm medicine. It is also a good practice to use flea and tick medications that have been prescribed by your dog’s veterinarian.

Make sure your pet has plenty of water and shade when playing outside. You will also want to make sure your dog isn’t walking on hot asphalt because it can burn his paw pads.

If you care for your pet as I do mine, always be more attentive to its needs during very warm or cold periods.

Deanna Johnson, Jack Bradley Realty Co. 419-341-1766 - Call for information on real estate in the Catawba, Port Clinton, Marblehead areas.

CAN A VACATION HOME WORK FOR YOU?

By Ruth Douglas

Have you ever spent a week at a friend’s vacation home and returned wishing you owned your own little place to escape from the everyday world? You might be surprised to learn that a second home may not he as far-off as it seems.

Millions of people own vacation homes, and one way some of them offset the cost of a second home is to let people rent it during peak seasons. Buying in a high-demand location such as a popular beach or ski resort increases the likelihood of being able to find renters season after season.

It you choose to do this with your vacation home, you can use the money collected from rent to cover maintenance expenses and the monthly mortgage. It can even save you money at tax time if’ you use your vacation home less than two weeks per year. If that’s the case, the home may classify as a rental property, and you may be able to deduct certain expenses.

However; if you use it more often, it will classify, as a dwelling. In that case, you may still be able to deduct some mortgage interest.

There are many tax rules and guidelines when it comes to owning a vacation home that is also used as a rental property, and it may seem confusing at first. It is worth taking the time to learn a hout, however, if you are serious about buying — and renting out — a vacation home.

To clarify everything, meet with your tax or financial professional for an explanation and for help deciding which situation will benefit you most. Furthermore, if you are thinking about purchasing a vacation home, please call me.

As your real estate sales professional, I am here to help you find a place that will provide you and your family with many years of enjoyment and relaxation, as well as additional income if you decide to rent it out. We service the Port Clinton, Catawba, Marblehead and Islands area. Give me a call Ruth Douglas 419-202-0029

FROM PUT-IN-BAY TO PUERTO VALLARTA

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By Leonard Partin.

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Before you book your next vacation, visit Viscape.com for an easy way to find the perfect vacation property to rent or buy.

On Thursday, June 19, a mix of young entrepreneurs, professionals and travelers packed The City Tavern Club in the heart of Georgetown to celebrate the unofficial launch of a Web 2.0 social market place for vacation properties, vacation destinations and second homes created by young Arlington entrepreneurs Caroline Allison and Dan Engfer. Kicking music, great drinks and crazy contests helped turn the event into the hottest party of the summer.

The pair, who previously ran a highly successful residential real estate investment company together, came up with the idea for Viscape.com to simplify the process of finding a vacation home, and to fill a void in the private vacation rental market. “Our long-term goal is to maximize people’s vacation experiences, but the immediate goal is to provide an easy way to find the perfect vacation property,” Caroline said.

Caroline’s extensive background in real estate and business strategy-and the vision to marry the two-was instrumental for thinking up Viscape.com. Caroline spent several years in finance, working for Lehman Brothers New York and Hong Kong, and in Washington DC, helping technology start-ups get off the ground, before founding a residential real estate investment company together with Dan.

Viscape. com makes it possible for travelers to find their perfect vacation rental property, home or destination in five minutes or less. Travelers research destinations and compare hundreds of properties, including privately owned properties, based on criteria such as price, location and amenities. Revolutionary mapping technology pinpoints the exact location on the map, and the site’s Web 2.0 capability lets travelers connect with property owners and other travelers.

For realtors and property owners, Viscape.com provides an incredible opportunity to expose their properties-free of charge-to a global audience. Listing a property only takes a few minutes, and in addition to a description, realtors and property owners can add pictures and videos to showcase their properties.

Viscape focus will be on amassing content and building a community of travelers.

Viscape.com is a Web 2.0 social market place for vacation properties and second homes, where you can take care of your travel logistics in a snap while connecting with kindred travel spirits! Use Viscape to list your property for sale, rent or swap, and to plan a trip together with your family and friends. Find your perfect vacation home or destination in less than five minutes.

For more information on real estate in the Port Clinton, Catawba, Marblehead, Lakeside areas, including the islands, call Jack Bradley Realty Co. 419-734-5551 or click here for our web site .

MAINTENANCE FREE VACATION LIVING

By Ruthie Caputo
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Summer time is quickly approaching and everyone needs to take a break. Sometimes we just need a well deserved break from the every day hustle bustle of our lives. Money may be tight right now but family and vacations are important and good for the soul too. Maybe this is the time to purchase a small condominium that you can use and/ or rent at the same time. The timing is right to invest in this type of property because the inventory is larger than usual and the prices are lower than at any time in the past years. It would be nice to jump in the car and bring your family for a little R&R right here in Port Clinton, Ohio.

While you are here you can just relax by the pool and read a great book or go out on your boat and enjoy the peaceful waters of Lake Erie. If you don’t have a boat, no problem! There are many fishing charter boats close by at Drawbridge Marina. They have a full service Marina, a fully stocked store with many clothing opportunites with Nautical appeal, rental fishing poles, mechanics on duty daily, 6-pack charter boats or large head boats. There is something for everyone.

Hungry?? Many restaurants, beach bars, coffee shops close enough to stretch your legs and walk to. Mr. Ed’s Bar and Grill, Docks Beach House or Phil’s Inn, Kokoma Bay, McCarthy’s, just to mention a few. Of course we have all the popular fast food chains too.

If condo living is not your cup of tea to own, then we have lots of them to rent through Lake Erie Vacation Rentals LEVR, or hotel/motels like Commodore Perry Inn, Lakeland Motel, Our Guest Inn and others near by.

Port Clinton also offers many events in the summer months for you to enjoy. There is usually an event going on most weekends in the summer time. If you can’t find something in Port Clinton to do then Catawba Island is just minutes away.

Come and make Vacationland a regular part of your life. It does not cost an arm and a leg to get here and the memories will last for a life time. Whatever you choose, whether it is a weekend, week or a day…..Port Clinton welcomes YOU!

We are more than happy to assist you with any Real Estate needs or questions about the area. Call Ruthie Caputo at 419-356-3947 or John Caputo at 419-345-9135

SPRING IS IN THE AIR!!!!!

By Barb Gillum

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With spring finally arrived it is time start making plans for a summer of fun in vacationland, and you have lots to do.


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· Mark your get away dates on the calendar,
· Make reservations,
· Start your tan

And there is:
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. Get the fishing license,
· Schedule Charters
· Clean the bottom of the boat (or hire it done),
· Rig your tackle box
· Launch the boat

Find out what is happening this summer. Call me if you need info on the:

· Lakeside Daisy Celebration
· Walleye Festival
· Lakeside events and Hoover Auditorium Schedule
· Marblehead Lighthouse tours

Think about your favorite places to eat, favorite friends to visit and favorite places to stay. Perhaps you need a permanent place to stay.......home, cottage or condominium in Lakeside, Marblehead, Catawba or Port Clinton. Let me help!

Click here for more information on real estate for sale in Lakeside, Marblehead, Port Clinton, Catawba or call Barb Gillum at 419-265-1331.

OHIO RETIREMENT AND CONTINUING CARE COMMUNITY

By Leonard Partin

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The Vineyard on Catawba located in Catawba Island Township is one of the newest condominium community in Ohio. The Vineyard on Catawba is tucked away near the shores of Lake Erie, with custom-built condos that are modern and spacious, yet comfy enough to be home. With a variety of floor plan options and a neighborhood full of friends, The Vineyard on Catawba allows you to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle that is sure to please!

Located in Catawba Island Township, The Vineyard is less than an hour from Toledo and just an hour drive from Cleveland, in the heart of the beautiful Lake Erie’s western basin, the Bass Islands, Put-InBay, and Kelly’s Island.

The Vineyard on Catawba is a nearly 34-acre community featuring 43 one-, two- and three-bedroom condominiums and a Campus Center for social, wellness and spiritual programs. The campus is also the site of The Chalet assisted living facility and the Concord Apartments.

The areas surrounding The Vineyard on Catawba are world renowned. One of the five top bird-watching destinations, Crane Creek State Park, is a short drive away. For those who enjoy "birding," we have registered 28 nesting species of birds on The Vineyard on Catawba campus.

Fishing and boating opportunities abound, from private charters for hire, to walk-on excursions, ready take you out for a day of fun on beautiful Lake Erie, private clubs and marinas offer a variety of options for docking your own vessel, as well.

For the golfers there is one of the regions newest Arthur Hills 18 hole Championship course. Whether you are having a foursome or a larger event, your experience will be tailored to match the needs of your group; whether it be a corporate event or charity fundraiser, or just a great day of golf. Each staff member of Catawba Island Club is carefully trained to exceed the expectations of each and every guest. Catawba Island Club will make your event one that your guests will be talking about for years to come.

Above all, The Vineyard on Catawba is people! Our success is the result of people who share a commitment to our mission to provide older adults with caring and quality services toward the enhancement of physical, mental and spiritual well-being consistent with the Christian Gospel.

The Chalet at The Vineyard on Catawba is a new concept in assisted living. Located on a beautiful wooded campus, our residents enjoy personalized care in a home-like atmosphere. The Chalet consists of six spacious, private suites complete with sitting areas and private baths. The customized care plans assure you that you pay only for the services you need.

Specialized features of the Chalet include: Individualized care and services to meet a variety of needs and desires. On-Site 24-hour per day staffing, 7 days a week. Resident to professional ratio maximum 6:1. Opportunity for social interaction or personal privacy. Meals cooked on the premises and supervised by a Dietitian. Planned activities and community events. Transportation available. Access to the beautifully landscaped grounds on the Catawba.

The new Community Center provides residents with an exercise room, chapel, multipurpose rooms for activities, a library, computer lab, administrative offices, a kitchen complete with steam table and a covered portico. Activities include: Personal Trainer, Aerobic Exercise Classes, Walking Trails, Game Groups, Book Club, Library, Computer Lab, Bible Study, Scheduled Monthly Theme Parties, plus Scheduled Off Campus Activities.

For information on homes, condominium, and real estate for sale in Port Clinton and Ottawa County visit www.JackBradleyRealty.com

THAT TIME OF THE YEAR!

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By Debbie Conte
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If you are a boat owner I am sure you are enthusiastically and excitedly preparing it for this years’ launch. Boating is always fun and enjoyable whether you boat to fish or just for the pleasure of running thru the open waters of Lake Erie, Sandusky Bay or the Portage River. Wherever you boat, always remember to “boat safely”.

I don’t know if you boat but I’m willing to bet that you pay income tax. This is also the time of year we prepare our tax forms. We all pay taxes, we all hate paying taxes-and we’re all interested in finding ways to decrease our tax bill.

Did you know that a simple real estate purchase can help you to decrease taxable income or save a person money at tax time? It’s true. Also, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) makes first-time homebuyers eligible for a 10% tax credit on the purchase price of a principal residence through December 1, 2009 – up to a cap of $8000. This incentive along with record low interest rates truly makes this time of the year a great time to buy a home. If you would like more information about how you can save money by investing in real estate, please call me anytime.
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Click here to contact Debbie Conte for homes and real estate at Jack Bradley Realty Co.

SPRING ACTIVITY ON THE RISE

By Jeff Williams

With spring officially here, activity in the Port Clinton area is on the rise. With warmer temperatures comes an influx of fishermen trying to fill their coolers. Although slow in the beginning, activity increases with increased water temperature. Numerous trailered boats have invaded the Port Clinton region along with a few boats spotted on the lake as well as bank fishermen. The Sandusky River in Fremont is busy with numerous outdoorsmen trying to catch Walleye on their spring spawning run. Many fishermen stay for the week or weekend searching for rentals and housing. If you’re here, why not stay? Port Clinton is a great place to get-away and many folks enjoy it so much they purchase property. Why not try your luck catching Smallmouth, Walleye, Perch or other native species!

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Click here to contact Jeff Williams for more information.

OUR 2008 REAL ESTATE MARKET

By Leonard A. Partin
President Fireland's Board of Realtors

"How's the market?" or "What's going on, is anything selling?" are questions we Realtors are constantly asked. If you have asked questions similar to these you were probably told "Challenging", "Soft", "Slow", or "Exciting".

A more complete answer would be "we have experienced a decrease in reported residential unit sales of 14.2% in 2008 over 2007", a decrease of 66 from the 464 units sales reported in 2007.

The 2008 average selling price for residential units in Ottawa County was $170,778.00. This reflects ONLY a 1.3% decrease from 2007. Interestingly the 2008 median selling price for residential sales was $137,900.00. This reflects an INCREASE of 2.2% over the 2007 median price.

The area least affected by today's economy is Catawba Island Township. The residential unit sales have increased 29.5%. The average selling price is down 1.8% to $223.120.00. The median selling price for residential sales was up 4.5% to $205,000.00. New home sales were a large contributing factor for the increase in median price and units sold in Catawba Island Township.

Danbury Township's area, including Lakeside and Marblehead reflects a 2008 decrease in residential units sold of 21.1%. The average price was down 12.5% to $212,126.00. The 2008 median price INCREASED 0.03% posted to $160,500.00.

The Port Clinton area market also experienced a decrease in the number of residential units sold; of 32 units from the 137 units sold in 2007. The average price fell 6.6% to $109,848.00. The 2008 median price was $97,000, down 5.8%.

The Oak Harbor and surrounding market area reported 70 sales in 2008, down 11.4%. The median price dropped $28,250.00 or 25.2%, down to $83,750.00. The average selling price was $105,489.00, reflecting a 5.8% decrease.

In 2006 there were 483 reported residential units sold in the Ottawa County area. There were 398 reported residential units sold in 2008, reflecting 85 less sales. The average price in 2006 was reported at $179,358.00 compared to $170,778 in 2008. The median price in 2006 was reported at $140,500.00 compared to $137,900 in 2008.

The influence of today's economy varies in the segmented price ranges and individual neighborhood market areas. Every market is different. Contact one of Jack Bradley Realty Company's sales associates to help you navigate selling or purchasing in today's economy.

Do you enjoy fishing for Walleye and Perch

Do you like Lake Erie fishing? Do you enjoy eating walleye and perch? Are you pulling your boat back and forth every weekend to the Port Clinton area?

It is time to inquire about the many condominiums or cottages available with door side dockage. Enjoy fishing during the day while your wife soaks the sun watching the children play. In the evening enjoy eating your catch from Lake Erie.

Don't wait, call us now 419-734-5551