Get everything you need for throwing a successful summer bash.  Links are listed below. Enjoy!

1. Striped pillow Anthropologie

2. Table runner  Anthropologie

3. Table gril  A+ R Store

4. Candle holder west elm

5. Bubbled beverage dispenser Anthropologie

6. Wooden bowl Target

10 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN NAPLES REAL ESTATE

Firstly, the smartest thing that you could do is get down to Naples yourself and get a feel for where you'd like to live. After all, it's a big decision. But if you're not able to visit, you can count on me to give you the run down on the area for you.

1.  Real estate expert. If you're going to be dealing with your own property in the area, you'll want to have a trusted real estate expert with sufficient experience on your side. 

2.  Keep costs within the budget.  Be sure you qualify for a loan before looking, unless you plan to pay all cash.

3. Type of real estate. There are many options to choose from in Naples such as houses, condominiums, duplexes, town homes, gated communities and rentals.  Be sure to hone in on what type of housing you are looking for.

4. Investment property. These opportunities include income producing housing/condos, commercial property, shopping centers, apartment buildings, car washes and golf property. The down economy presents an opportunity for you to buy up valuable pieces of property like this at largely discounted rates compared to a few years ago.

5. Which area do you want to be in? Naples has a few main areas....

North Naples - clean, classy, and more newly developed and close to everything.

Olde Naples - clean, classy, with some Old Florida feel.

East Naples - clean but slightly different than other areas, but from here you're close to Olde Naples. There are great gated communities here too.

Golden Gate Estates - Great area for lots of land, most homes have at least a full acre of property.

6. If you want to live the vacation lifestyle...Then find a place in Olde Naples (South) or near Vanderbilt Beach (North) so you can easily get to the beaches and wherever else you like to go. Otherwise you'll still be a short drive away from all that Naples offers you. But be sure to think twice before agreeing to drive 10-20 minutes everyday to your favorite spots.

7. Jobs, work, and careers. Naples has lots of jobs available for most people. You'll also find that tourism helps our economy down here a lot offering many jobs.

8. Schools. Most residents are proud of our schools here in Naples. We have the latest technology and buildings for your children to learn.

9.  Research rental potential and costs. Income is the prime motivation, be aware that demand and dollars fluctuate with the economy, weather, location, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and amenities. Try to remove emotion from your purchase choice and pick what appeals to the widest target market rather than what you may want for yourself.

10. Explore alternative options with the real estate agent. Its important to keep an open mind sometimes things dont always work out perfectly, but with the right help you can get you pretty darn close.

9 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN AN OPEN HOUSE

Here are 9 tips on 'kicking the tires' of your potential new home on your first tour.  

 You're in the market for a home, you've seen the listings online and you've put together a short list of potential properties. There's even one with the exact number of bedrooms you need, just enough square footage, and that renovated kitchen you've been dreaming of – and it all looks good in the photos.

 But while a picture online can say a thousand words, seeing a home in person truly speaks volumes. Visiting a property is your first opportunity to "kick the tires." Of course, the first instinct at an open house is to run straight to the kitchen, the master bedroom, and bathrooms, but when pounding the pavement scoping out prospective homes, don't overlook these nine critical areas.

1. The neighborhood

You have to remember that you're not just buying a house, you're buying a neighborhood, too. And that, perhaps, is the most important takeaway from seeing a property in person. During your visit, though, be sure to pay attention to traffic speeds, the condition of other homes in the area, and whether or not there's plentiful access to amenities your family needs.

 2. The neighbors

Again, you're buying a house, but it's important to note that the neighbors come with it, like a package deal. Scope out the homes on either side of the property – and don't overlook the neighbor in the back of the house. You might think that what's out of sight is out of mind, but that rule doesn't apply if they have three large dogs that like to bark all day.

 3. Privacy

When you look out the bedroom window, do you peer right into your neighbor's bathroom? If you wanted to entertain on the back deck, will your neighbor be close enough to give you unwanted barbequing tips? While privacy is always good to consider, the good news is that the issue may be easily resolved. Remember: Hedges make great neighbors.

4. The home's exterior

Take a walk around the entire perimeter of the house; you might be surprised at what's hiding along the sides, out of sight. Is there deferred maintenance? Pay close attention to the exterior paint. Does it look fresh, or is it chipping? Do the roof shingles look like they need replacing in the next two to five years? What's the condition of the gutters or any other key items on the exterior? This is a telltale sign in what you'll find inside.

5. Good 'flow'

One thing pictures online don't show is the flow of the house.  Do rooms feel spacious and well-laid-out? The hub of the home for today's family is the kitchen. Is it open and inviting? Can family members lounge nearby or dine in an adjacent area? The way one room opens to the next is important when it comes to making the most of the space you've got.

6. The layout

A family with young children is likely going to want a home with their bedroom on the same floor as their children. But if you have teenagers, you may want to be on the other side of the house – or even on a different floor. So pay special attention to the layout of the house and whether or not it works for your lifestyle. Overall flow is important, but having space dedicated to specific, important parts of your life – like an office for someone who works from home – is equally as important.

7. Smells, stains and messiness

The nose knows. Check out the basement and even the attic. If you smell some ominous, it just could be. Water stains in the ceilings and along the baseboards in the basement are signs of flooding, drainage, or roof trouble – and water and dampness often lead to mold and mildew issues, so take note. 

8. Light and air

When you're in the house, is there lots of natural light? Is the house designed in a way that, with weather permitting, there's good air flow through the house? Not only is sunlight and fresh air enjoyable, but opening those windows and catching a breeze also can help cut down on utility bills during those mid-summer months.

9. Closet space

Is there a little or a lot? Will the home's storage space keep you organized and accommodate all your stuff? I know that for some homebuyers, this is a deal breaker, so it's better to check now before you fall in love with the rest of the house.

WHY BUY IN NAPLES, FLORIDA NOW?

                 

Why Buy Now?

Motivated Sellers and Inventory

Now is an ideal time to buy. In most markets affordability is high and there is an abundance of inventory. As a job recovery begins, existing-home sales will continue the recovery begun in 2009 and 2010. There are many options out there for buyers and sellers who are willing to negotiate and work towards a win-win situation that works for both parties. Go to http://napleshomeslisted.com/

 for active listings.

FHA Loans Are Available

There are many choices for buyers looking for mortgages. One option, FHA home loans, are a viable alternative for many first time buyers. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) — which is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) — insures the loan, so your lender can offer you a better deal, including a low down payment and low closing costs.

The FHA single-family loan program is alive and well. As specialty mortgages have faded away, FHA is stepping in. In fact, the FHA market share is up to more than 30%, from just 6% in 2007.

Find out about FHA and other loans, go to www.Hud.gov/buying/loans and www.REALTOR.org and do a search for Consumer Literacy.

 Buying and Selling

HouseLogic.com Buying and Selling offers helpful information for buyers and sellers to ensure they make smart, confident decisions about their purchase or sale. 

                     

THINGS TO DO: NAPLES EDITION

Naples offers some of the most beautiful sights and fun attractions. Here are just some of the many things to do in Naples, Florida.

The City Pier. All the beaches on the Naples coast are not only public but they're clean and free. After sun tanning you can easily walk on over to the pier. 

Visit the Naples Botanical Garden with 170 acres of six lush, tropical cultivated gardens representing the plants and cultures from around the globe, Naples Botanical Garden is sight to see.

 The Village on Venetian Bay is an upscale shopping area offering unique shops.

Big Cypress National Preserve has a variety of plant and animal life.

 The Philharmonic Center for the Arts is a great theater for shows and concerts. Enjoy this luxurious theater for a fun night out!

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens features exhibits and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Thanks for reading! 

10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD LIVE IN NAPLES

Whether you're looking for a second home, a place to relax, or to start your career Naples has it all. Here are 10 reasons why Naples, Florida is the most preeminent, stress-free place to live in the world.

1. Beautiful beaches. Blissful white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, and easily accessible amenities surround Naples.

2. The people. Naples has a diverse population with people from all walks of life.

3. The Weather. An average of 77 degrees Fahrenheit and the sun shines almost everyday, what more could you ask for.

Bistro 821

4. Dining. Naples has some of the best dining in the United States. Some of my favorite spots in Naples are Bistro 821, Seasons 52, Turtle Club and Komoon Thai Sushi & Ceviche.

Mercato

5. Shopping. From fashion forward apparel to home decor, Naples offers a little bit of everything for the perfect beach weekend.

 6. Mix of activities. Golfing, boating, and sailing Naples has your outdoor activities covered.

7. Tropical plants. Beautiful greenery surrounds Naples with some of the tallest trees.

8. Postcard-perfect sunsets. When the sun is about to set you must stop and enjoy the view.

9. Safety. For families and individuals alike, a safe place to live should be a leading priority when looking for a new home. Naples is one of the safest communities, you'll feel right at home.

10. Always buzzing downtown. Downtown Old Naples there are specialty shops, dancing, cafes and art shows.  These are just some of the things this charming area has to offer.

Dont make Naples the trip-of-a-lifetime, make it your life. It's the essence of laid-back luxury.

  Enjoy your day!