By Dr. Tom O’Neal
(Ed Note. Dr. Tom O’Neal associate vice president for Research and Commercialization at the University of Central Florida is founder and executive director of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program and president of the Florida Business Incubation Assn.)
As America searches for solutions to its economic woes, one of the most innovative and productive job creating engines is being overlooked. It’s a case of not seeing the trees for the forest.
A recent national study came to a compelling conclusion nationwide, it’s the young, small startup companies that are creating the most new jobs — about three million annually. And if you look deeper, you will see that it’s a small number of small companies – usually young in their existence – creating these jobs.
Last year, the University of Central Florida’s Business Incubation Program graduated more than 20 companies that are now succeeding with further assistance from the UCF programs such as GrowFL. And they are creating jobs.
Last year UCF accepted a record number of 64 new startup companies. Over the last 10 years, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 client companies that in 2011 accounted for more than 1,600 new jobs.
What kinds of businesses are these?
A St. Cloud company helps Florida ranchers and farmers sell fresh, locally grown foods to Florida restaurants and hotels. A Daytona Beach graduate company is gearing up to mass-produce its patented wind turbines that out perform anything on the market. A client company in Kissimmee recently completed filming a feature length motion picture.
In Leesburg, a client company produces award winning video series on healthcare and is doing it so well that the National Business Incubation Association awarded them the title of 2012 Outstanding Incubator Client in the Non-technology category. A client company in the Central Florida Research Park developed a GIS platform that helps disaster management agencies cope with tornadoes and hurricanes.
The UCF Business Incubation Program is one of thousands of similar programs nationwide. At UCF, client companies range from industry leaders in laser photonics, simulation technology, rapid prototyping, web development and alternative energy to a commercial delivery service for area restaurants.
America’s greatness lies in our ability to adapt to new conditions with innovation and enthusiasm. That spirit of innovation, enthusiasm combined with perseverance and an entrepreneurial culture is what made America so prosperous for so long. It continues to be played out daily in small, young startup companies all across the country.
What can we really do? Increase the success rate of these companies and you create greater prosperity. A recent study reported that five-year survival rate of Florida establishments is 37 percent. That value places Florida dead last in the US in that statistical category. That’s right, 50th. Without even passing judgment on the good or bad thing, just think of the consequences of increasing that rate by 5% or 10%. Cultivation of fertile ground wherein companies can be successful benefits everyone.
Not all companies will survive, but we should create a nurturing environment where an entrepreneur’s lack of experience can be mitigated and pure market forces can be the major determining factor in their survival rate. That’s where you’ll find the real wealth of our region and nation!
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty sale of Auburndale Estate to Canadian buyer nets highest price in more than a year
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty recently sold an estate home in Auburndale to a Canadian farmer who paid the highest price for any residential property in the Auburndale area in more than a year.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Home Specialist Chris Wilson in the firm’s Orlando/Dr. Phillip’s Marketing Center negotiated the sale.
By all accounts, the estate was well worth the record price.
Situated on 20 hilltop acres with lake views, the property is already zoned RL-2, which allows two to five units per acre if developed.
The 4,400 square foot Arthur Rutenberg home offers four bedrooms, three baths, a game room and a tropical screened pool and spa, a three car garage and its own spring-fed pond.
A 5,000 square foot custom metal building on the site is fully air conditioned with offices, bathroom facilities, a car lift and 18 foot doors, Wilson said.
“The sale we negotiated represents the highest price paid for any residential property in Auburndale for more than a year.”
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Home Specialist Chris Wilson in the firm’s Orlando/Dr. Phillip’s Marketing Center negotiated the sale.
By all accounts, the estate was well worth the record price.
Situated on 20 hilltop acres with lake views, the property is already zoned RL-2, which allows two to five units per acre if developed.
The 4,400 square foot Arthur Rutenberg home offers four bedrooms, three baths, a game room and a tropical screened pool and spa, a three car garage and its own spring-fed pond.
A 5,000 square foot custom metal building on the site is fully air conditioned with offices, bathroom facilities, a car lift and 18 foot doors, Wilson said.
“The sale we negotiated represents the highest price paid for any residential property in Auburndale for more than a year.”
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Two Ready-To-Move-In Homes Are Now Available at Mira Bay in Apollo Beach in Tampa Bay region
TAMPA, Fla. --- Ashton Woods Homes now has two ready-to-move-in homes available at its community of Mira Bay in Apollo Beach in the Tampa Bay region.
Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said one of the homes has three bedrooms, with 2,234 square feet of living area, while the other, a four bedroom home has 2,705 square feet.
The two ready-to-move-in homes at Mira Bay are priced from $269,990, Roche said.
Ashton Woods Homes, headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation’s largest private homebuilding companies with operations in growth communities in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Killeen, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Raleigh and Tampa. For more information, visit http://www.ashtonwoods.com .
Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said one of the homes has three bedrooms, with 2,234 square feet of living area, while the other, a four bedroom home has 2,705 square feet.
The two ready-to-move-in homes at Mira Bay are priced from $269,990, Roche said.
Ashton Woods Homes, headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation’s largest private homebuilding companies with operations in growth communities in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Killeen, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Raleigh and Tampa. For more information, visit http://www.ashtonwoods.com .
CUHACI & PETERSON ARCHITECTS NAMES THREE NEW PROFESSIONALS TO STAFF
ORLANDO, Fla – Cuhaci & Peterson Architects Engineers Planners, based in Orlando’s Baldwin Park, recently named three new professionals to its staff, Lonnie Peterson, chairman, said.
Manuel Gonzalez who was named an architectural graduate received his Bachelor of Architecture from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, School of Architecture and has more than 12 years of experience in the industry.
Marcos Del Orbe who was named senior project coordinator holds a Bachelors of Design from the University of Florida and has 19 years of experience in the industry.
Keith Brown, named permitting coordinator, attended Valencia College and has 12 years of experience in the industry.
Manuel Gonzalez who was named an architectural graduate received his Bachelor of Architecture from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, School of Architecture and has more than 12 years of experience in the industry.
Marcos Del Orbe who was named senior project coordinator holds a Bachelors of Design from the University of Florida and has 19 years of experience in the industry.
Keith Brown, named permitting coordinator, attended Valencia College and has 12 years of experience in the industry.
Cuhaci & Peterson Architects Design Interior for New York Diner near Orlando International Airport
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Cuhaci & Peterson Architects was recently awarded a contract to design the interior of the New York Diner located at Orlando Gateway on S.R. 436 and the Beachline Expressway near Orlando International Airport.
Lonnie Peterson, chairman at Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, said the design project totals 4,800 square feet of restaurant space.
Lonnie Peterson, chairman at Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, said the design project totals 4,800 square feet of restaurant space.
Cuhaci & Peterson selected to design four Aldi Supermarkets in North and South Carolina and in Orlando
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Cuhaci & Peterson Architects based in Orlando’s Baldwin Park has been awarded a contract to design four Aldi Supermarkets in located in North and South Carolina and Orlando
Lonnie Peterson, chairman at Cuhaci & Peterson, said each of the supermarket facilities will total 18,000 square feet of retail space.
The Aldi Supermarket facilities are located in Salisbury and Indian Trails, N.C., in Columbia, S.C. and at U.S. 192 and Vineland Rd. in Southwest Orlando near Disney World.
Lonnie Peterson, chairman at Cuhaci & Peterson, said each of the supermarket facilities will total 18,000 square feet of retail space.
The Aldi Supermarket facilities are located in Salisbury and Indian Trails, N.C., in Columbia, S.C. and at U.S. 192 and Vineland Rd. in Southwest Orlando near Disney World.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
LENNAR’S ACES PROGRAM OFFERS SIX PERCENT COMMISSIONS FOR TOP ORLANDO REALTORS
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Lennar’s Central Florida Division is now offering top area Realtors one of the highest commissions ever on the closings of new ready-to-move-in homes.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said Realtors will receive an additional one percent commission – or a total of six percent – on sales of new ready-to-move-in homes in all Lennar communities if they register for Lennar’s ACES Realtor program at www.lennarlovesrealtors.com and successfully complete the online orientation program and pass the test.
Visit www.Lennar.com.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said Realtors will receive an additional one percent commission – or a total of six percent – on sales of new ready-to-move-in homes in all Lennar communities if they register for Lennar’s ACES Realtor program at www.lennarlovesrealtors.com and successfully complete the online orientation program and pass the test.
Visit www.Lennar.com.
Lennar’s Central Florida Division to open new model home in June at Independence in Winter Garden
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Lennar’s Central Florida Division will open a new model home at Independence, located off Independence Parkway and Fiquette Road near Windermere in Winter Garden.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said The Rio model home offers six bedrooms, three baths and a loft in 2,603 square feet of living space with a two car garage.
The Rio model will be priced from the $230s, Metheny said.
Lennar is building single family homes with attached and detached garages as well as townhomes with garages priced from the $160s at Independence.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said The Rio model home offers six bedrooms, three baths and a loft in 2,603 square feet of living space with a two car garage.
The Rio model will be priced from the $230s, Metheny said.
Lennar is building single family homes with attached and detached garages as well as townhomes with garages priced from the $160s at Independence.
Ryland Homes Starts Sales of New Homes in Fourth Phase at Ashton Oaks in Wesley Chapel
TAMPA, Fla. – Ryland Homes has started sales of 43 new single family homes priced from $146,990 to $200,990 in the newest phase at Ashton Oaks, located at on Ashton Oaks Blvd. off SR 54 in Wesley Chapel.
Tony Crimi, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said new three, four and five bedroom single family homes at Ashton Oaks range in size from 1,274 square feet of living space to 2,259 square feet.
Ashton Oaks features a community pool and cabana.
For more information please go to www.ryland.com/tampa.
About Ryland Homes
With headquarters in Southern California, Ryland is one of the nation’s largest homebuilders and a leading mortgage-finance company. The company currently operates in 13 states across the country and has built more than 295,000 homes and financed more than 245,000 mortgages since its founding in 1967. Ryland is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “RYL.” Visit www.Ryland.com
Tony Crimi, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said new three, four and five bedroom single family homes at Ashton Oaks range in size from 1,274 square feet of living space to 2,259 square feet.
Ashton Oaks features a community pool and cabana.
For more information please go to www.ryland.com/tampa.
About Ryland Homes
With headquarters in Southern California, Ryland is one of the nation’s largest homebuilders and a leading mortgage-finance company. The company currently operates in 13 states across the country and has built more than 295,000 homes and financed more than 245,000 mortgages since its founding in 1967. Ryland is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “RYL.” Visit www.Ryland.com
NAI Realvest Negotiates Lease of Herndon Center Office Space to a National Non-Profit
Maitland, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new lease agreement for 2,000 square feet of office space at Herndon Center, 615-F Herndon Ave. in Orlando.
Michael Heidrich, a principal at NAI Realvest, negotiated the lease representing the landlord, LBJ Properties of Winter Park. The tenant, Mi Familia Vota education fund, is a nationwide non-profit organization providing technical education to young Hispanic workers, and was represented by Will Watkins of Coughlin Commercial.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
Michael Heidrich, a principal at NAI Realvest, negotiated the lease representing the landlord, LBJ Properties of Winter Park. The tenant, Mi Familia Vota education fund, is a nationwide non-profit organization providing technical education to young Hispanic workers, and was represented by Will Watkins of Coughlin Commercial.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
New Homeowner at Stonebrier in Lutz can stand tall with help of latest technology, VA grant
TAMPA, Fla. - A technology marvel and a $70,000 grant from the Veterans Administration will help home buyer Joel Nelson stand tall in his new home at Stonebrier, located on Mapleridge Drive off Lutz Lake Fern Rd. in Lutz.
Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte’s North Florida division, said Nelson suffers from multiple sclerosis, a disease that robs him of his muscle function.
But, thanks to a new C500 VS Stander wheelchair built by Sweden’s Permobil, the world’s largest manufacturer of wheelchairs, and some major modifications to the home constructed by Pulte Homes Waterbridge, Nelson can stand tall in his new home when he moves in next month.
Nelson received a $70,000 grant from the Veterans Administration to help pay for his special requirements, which include minimum 36-inch doors, a five foot turnaround radius, an open floor plan and no door sills that are higher than one-half inch.
Pulte Homes green-lighted construction of the new home so it will be ready for the Nelsons in June.
“Joel Nelson and his wife are dynamic individuals and we were happy to accommodate their needs at Stonebrier,” Strickler said. “They will be a wonderful addition to our community.”
Stonebrier offers new single-family homes built by both Centex and Pulte Homes priced from the $140s, with 1,335 to 3,304 square feet of living space on a variety of conservation and lake front home sites.
Homeowners at Stonebrier have access to its 14-acre neighborhood amenity center with a community club house, a state-of-the-art fitness facility with weight training and cardio equipment, resort-style swimming pool with a jungle waterslide and children’s play area, a basketball court, a multi-use sports field, and a children’s playground complete with a rock climbing wall.
Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte’s North Florida division, said Nelson suffers from multiple sclerosis, a disease that robs him of his muscle function.
But, thanks to a new C500 VS Stander wheelchair built by Sweden’s Permobil, the world’s largest manufacturer of wheelchairs, and some major modifications to the home constructed by Pulte Homes Waterbridge, Nelson can stand tall in his new home when he moves in next month.
Nelson received a $70,000 grant from the Veterans Administration to help pay for his special requirements, which include minimum 36-inch doors, a five foot turnaround radius, an open floor plan and no door sills that are higher than one-half inch.
Pulte Homes green-lighted construction of the new home so it will be ready for the Nelsons in June.
“Joel Nelson and his wife are dynamic individuals and we were happy to accommodate their needs at Stonebrier,” Strickler said. “They will be a wonderful addition to our community.”
Stonebrier offers new single-family homes built by both Centex and Pulte Homes priced from the $140s, with 1,335 to 3,304 square feet of living space on a variety of conservation and lake front home sites.
Homeowners at Stonebrier have access to its 14-acre neighborhood amenity center with a community club house, a state-of-the-art fitness facility with weight training and cardio equipment, resort-style swimming pool with a jungle waterslide and children’s play area, a basketball court, a multi-use sports field, and a children’s playground complete with a rock climbing wall.
NAI Realvest Negotiates Sale of Industrial Condo at Monroe CommerCenter IV in Sanford
MAITLAND, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated the sale of a 2,700 square foot industrial condo at Monroe CommerCenter IV in Sanford for $170,100.00.
Michael Heidrich, a principal at NAI Realvest negotiated the transaction representing the seller and developer Small Bay Partners, LLC of Maitland.
Cloudy Logic LLC purchased units 1040 and 1048 at 4220 Church St. in the industrial center. John Sadri of Coldwell Banker represented the buyer.
The units were in shell condition at time of sale and the buyer will handle the interior buildout of the space including a restroom, office space and electrical.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
Michael Heidrich, a principal at NAI Realvest negotiated the transaction representing the seller and developer Small Bay Partners, LLC of Maitland.
Cloudy Logic LLC purchased units 1040 and 1048 at 4220 Church St. in the industrial center. John Sadri of Coldwell Banker represented the buyer.
The units were in shell condition at time of sale and the buyer will handle the interior buildout of the space including a restroom, office space and electrical.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
Pulte Homes to Host Grand Opening June 2 to Showcase its New Community of Windermere Terrace
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Pulte Homes will host a Grand Opening event on Saturday, June 2 unveiling the new single family community Windermere Terrace, located off Overstreet Road in Windermere.
Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte Homes in Central Florida, said the Grand Opening event will include food trucks and live music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. along with tours of the Madison model home. The event is free and the public is invited to attend.
Windermere Terrace features wooded conservation and pond view homes. Strickler said the eight new single family home designs offered at Windermere Terrace starting from the $240s have three to six bedrooms with two to four baths and range from 1,744 to 3,649 square feet with two and three car garages.
Strickler said Windermere Terrace amenities include a community swimming pool and cabana, top-rated Windermere schools, and upscale shopping or dining within minutes of the community with easy access to Orlando’s downtown and international airport.
Many of the new homes at Windermere Terrace feature Pulte’s Life TestedTM new home designs that include the Pulte Planning Center, the perfect place for homework, and Drop Zone, similar to a northern mud room with a place to leave shoes and backpacks before entering the living area. These plans also include studies, game rooms, and additional structural features to customize each home.
For more information about Windermere Terrace, visit www.Pulte.com/orlando . The event will be held at 11341 Roskin Lane, Windermere, FL 34786. 407-656-1009.
About Pulte Homes
Award-winning Pulte Homes communities are designed to deliver the best quality of life for home owners. By combining innovative life-enhancing designs, an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail, Pulte Homes is the nation’s premier home brand for upwardly mobile home buyers in 26 states and the District of Columbia. As the most awarded homebuilder in customer satisfaction, Pulte Homes has ranked tops in the annual JD Power and Associates® New-Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Studysm more than 75 times since 2000. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit www.pultehomes.com.
About PulteGroup
PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., is one of America’s largest home building companies with operations in approximately 60 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes and Del Webb, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup conducts extensive research to provide home buyers with innovative solutions and new homes designed for the way people actually live today. As the most awarded home builder in customer satisfaction, PulteGroup brands have consistently ranked among top home builders in third-party customer satisfaction studies.
For more information about PulteGroup, Inc. and PulteGroup brands, go to pultegroup.com; www.pulte.com; www.centex.com; www.delwebb.com
Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte Homes in Central Florida, said the Grand Opening event will include food trucks and live music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. along with tours of the Madison model home. The event is free and the public is invited to attend.
Windermere Terrace features wooded conservation and pond view homes. Strickler said the eight new single family home designs offered at Windermere Terrace starting from the $240s have three to six bedrooms with two to four baths and range from 1,744 to 3,649 square feet with two and three car garages.
Strickler said Windermere Terrace amenities include a community swimming pool and cabana, top-rated Windermere schools, and upscale shopping or dining within minutes of the community with easy access to Orlando’s downtown and international airport.
Many of the new homes at Windermere Terrace feature Pulte’s Life TestedTM new home designs that include the Pulte Planning Center, the perfect place for homework, and Drop Zone, similar to a northern mud room with a place to leave shoes and backpacks before entering the living area. These plans also include studies, game rooms, and additional structural features to customize each home.
For more information about Windermere Terrace, visit www.Pulte.com/orlando . The event will be held at 11341 Roskin Lane, Windermere, FL 34786. 407-656-1009.
About Pulte Homes
Award-winning Pulte Homes communities are designed to deliver the best quality of life for home owners. By combining innovative life-enhancing designs, an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail, Pulte Homes is the nation’s premier home brand for upwardly mobile home buyers in 26 states and the District of Columbia. As the most awarded homebuilder in customer satisfaction, Pulte Homes has ranked tops in the annual JD Power and Associates® New-Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Studysm more than 75 times since 2000. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit www.pultehomes.com.
About PulteGroup
PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., is one of America’s largest home building companies with operations in approximately 60 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes and Del Webb, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup conducts extensive research to provide home buyers with innovative solutions and new homes designed for the way people actually live today. As the most awarded home builder in customer satisfaction, PulteGroup brands have consistently ranked among top home builders in third-party customer satisfaction studies.
For more information about PulteGroup, Inc. and PulteGroup brands, go to pultegroup.com; www.pulte.com; www.centex.com; www.delwebb.com
Eagle Creek Golf Club has new Pergola for Events, ‘Perfect’ Pictures
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Celebration Golf Management, which leases and operates Eagle Creek Golf Club off Narcoossee Rd. in southeast Orlando, recently completed construction of new pergola – a pavilion for ceremonies and events.
“The 37 foot by 10 foot structure will be a perfect addition to the beautiful facilities here at Eagle Creek Golf Club,” said General Manager Dave Evangelista.
“The ceremony and event pergola at Eagle Creek is a perfect setting for pictures at a wedding ceremony, cocktail hour or special event, and it can even be used as a stage for live entertainment,” Evangelista said.
“The timeless architectural style makes it the perfect wedding picture setting for any bride and groom’s taste. The new pergola’ has the 18th green and fountain as a stunning backdrop,” he explained.
The pergola is now open and ready for events.
“The 37 foot by 10 foot structure will be a perfect addition to the beautiful facilities here at Eagle Creek Golf Club,” said General Manager Dave Evangelista.
“The ceremony and event pergola at Eagle Creek is a perfect setting for pictures at a wedding ceremony, cocktail hour or special event, and it can even be used as a stage for live entertainment,” Evangelista said.
“The timeless architectural style makes it the perfect wedding picture setting for any bride and groom’s taste. The new pergola’ has the 18th green and fountain as a stunning backdrop,” he explained.
The pergola is now open and ready for events.
Mattamy Homes Earns Major Awards during Home Builders Assn. of Metro Orlando’s Parade of Homes
WINTER PARK, Fla. --- Mattamy Homes U.S. Group, the U.S. division of Canada’s largest homebuilder, earned its second Grand Award in two years during the recent Home Builders Assn. of Metro Orlando’s Parade of Homes.
Steve Parker, president of Mattamy Homes U.S. Group, said the Orlando division earned the Parade’s Grand Award as the top home builder in the production homes category.
Mattamy’s Captiva model town home at Lake Nona Preserve in East Orlando also won first place in the category of attached production homes priced under $300,000.
Parker said the Captiva model home offers three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths in 1,611 square feet of living space priced from $177,990.
The Captiva’s open floor plan with a large kitchen, dining room, gathering room and foyer on the ground floor and three bedrooms on the second floor appealed to Parade judges.
“We think the Captiva model home is the perfect solution for busy families today,” Parker said.
The Captiva model home is open daily at Lake Nona Preserve located off Narcoossee Road in Southeast Orlando.
Mattamy Homes U.S. Group builds single family and townhomes in five Orlando communities, 10 in Jacksonville, three in Phoenix, nine in the Charlotte area and 11 in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota.
About Mattamy Homes
Mattamy Homes expanded into the U.S. in 2003 and has divisions in Jacksonville, Orlando, Charlotte, Phoenix and Minneapolis. The homebuilder is the largest and most active in Canada with annual revenues exceeding $1.3 billion.
Steve Parker, president of Mattamy Homes U.S. Group, said the Orlando division earned the Parade’s Grand Award as the top home builder in the production homes category.
Mattamy’s Captiva model town home at Lake Nona Preserve in East Orlando also won first place in the category of attached production homes priced under $300,000.
Parker said the Captiva model home offers three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths in 1,611 square feet of living space priced from $177,990.
The Captiva’s open floor plan with a large kitchen, dining room, gathering room and foyer on the ground floor and three bedrooms on the second floor appealed to Parade judges.
“We think the Captiva model home is the perfect solution for busy families today,” Parker said.
The Captiva model home is open daily at Lake Nona Preserve located off Narcoossee Road in Southeast Orlando.
Mattamy Homes U.S. Group builds single family and townhomes in five Orlando communities, 10 in Jacksonville, three in Phoenix, nine in the Charlotte area and 11 in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota.
About Mattamy Homes
Mattamy Homes expanded into the U.S. in 2003 and has divisions in Jacksonville, Orlando, Charlotte, Phoenix and Minneapolis. The homebuilder is the largest and most active in Canada with annual revenues exceeding $1.3 billion.
Reliable Systems Solutions Earns Florida, NMSDC Minority Business Enterprise Designation
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Reliable Systems Solutions, a leading U.S. provider of Reliability Engineering Services in the aerospace, aviation, commercial and defense industries, was recently designated a Minority Business Enterprise by the State of Florida and the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).
Richard Coronado, founder and chief executive officer of Reliable Systems Solutions, said the awards mark a major milestone for the firm.
“This is an important milestone for Reliable Systems Solutions,” Coronado said. “The NMSDC’s rigorous certification process is considered the gold standard for certifying minority-owned businesses by corporate America.”
According the National Minority Supplier Development Council, American companies spent more than $100 billion on goods and services from Minority Business Enterprises in 2005, up from only $86 million in 1972.
Certification as a Minority Business Enterprises qualifies Reliable Systems Solutions to compete for work on major projects awarded by government agencies as well as aerospace, aviation, commercial and defense industry contractors.
For more information, visit www.reliablesystemsolution.com.
Reliable Systems Solutions is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program, located in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Richard Coronado, founder and chief executive officer of Reliable Systems Solutions, said the awards mark a major milestone for the firm.
“This is an important milestone for Reliable Systems Solutions,” Coronado said. “The NMSDC’s rigorous certification process is considered the gold standard for certifying minority-owned businesses by corporate America.”
According the National Minority Supplier Development Council, American companies spent more than $100 billion on goods and services from Minority Business Enterprises in 2005, up from only $86 million in 1972.
Certification as a Minority Business Enterprises qualifies Reliable Systems Solutions to compete for work on major projects awarded by government agencies as well as aerospace, aviation, commercial and defense industry contractors.
For more information, visit www.reliablesystemsolution.com.
Reliable Systems Solutions is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program, located in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty Named Exclusive Leasing Agents for flagship office building at Stirling Center on Rinehart Road
LAKE MARY, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty has been named exclusive leasing agents for the flagship office building at Stirling Center on Rinehart Road in Lake Mary.
The two-story Class A office building is ideal for professional or medical offices. To view a brochure of the property, go to http://stirlingsir.netii.net/StirlingCenterBrochure.pdf .
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said Stirling Commercial Specialist John Kurtz is representing the property.
The building can be leased by multiple tenants or a single user, Kurtz said. Spaces available range from 2,796 to 14,728 square feet and all space is fully built out with high end custom finishes.
The building’s campus setting includes 17 free standing office buildings that are either owner occupied or leased to professionals. Medical facilities located at Stirling Center include Jewett Orthopedic Clinic and Physicians Associates.
Stirling Center is located within the Lake Mary high tech corridor with easy access to I-4 and the 417 expressway.
The ‘For Lease’ Sign in front of the property contains a customized QR code, which consumers can scan with their smart phones and be directed to a website Kurtz created to provide additional information about the listing.
“Making all the information about a property easily accessible on the consumer's smart phone is an essential part of modern real estate marketing. About 60 percent of property buyers today use smart phones to search for real estate, and this is a growing trend,” Kurtz said
For more information about what is available for sale and lease, and to view floor plans and photos of the Stirling Center development Kurtz has launched www.StirlingCenter.com.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
The two-story Class A office building is ideal for professional or medical offices. To view a brochure of the property, go to http://stirlingsir.netii.net/StirlingCenterBrochure.pdf .
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said Stirling Commercial Specialist John Kurtz is representing the property.
The building can be leased by multiple tenants or a single user, Kurtz said. Spaces available range from 2,796 to 14,728 square feet and all space is fully built out with high end custom finishes.
The building’s campus setting includes 17 free standing office buildings that are either owner occupied or leased to professionals. Medical facilities located at Stirling Center include Jewett Orthopedic Clinic and Physicians Associates.
Stirling Center is located within the Lake Mary high tech corridor with easy access to I-4 and the 417 expressway.
The ‘For Lease’ Sign in front of the property contains a customized QR code, which consumers can scan with their smart phones and be directed to a website Kurtz created to provide additional information about the listing.
“Making all the information about a property easily accessible on the consumer's smart phone is an essential part of modern real estate marketing. About 60 percent of property buyers today use smart phones to search for real estate, and this is a growing trend,” Kurtz said
For more information about what is available for sale and lease, and to view floor plans and photos of the Stirling Center development Kurtz has launched www.StirlingCenter.com.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Ryland Homes to start presales of single-family, Lake front homes priced from the $180s at Whitney Lake on Johns Island
CHARLESTON, S.C. --- Ryland Homes will start presales of 34 lakefront homes priced from the $180s in June at Whitney Lake, located off River Road and Maybank Highway on Johns Island in Charleston.
Brian Cartwright, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Charleston region, said three and four-bedroom single-family homes at Whitney Lake will range in size from 1,600 square feet of living space to 1,929 square feet with detached garages.
Altogether Ryland Homes plans to build 81 new homes at Whitney Lake, Cartwright said.
Ryland Homes currently builds single family homes in seven communities throughout the Charleston-Myrtle Beach region. Visit www.ryland.com
About Ryland Homes
With headquarters in Southern California, Ryland is one of the nation’s largest homebuilders and a leading mortgage-finance company. The company currently operates in 13 states across the country and has built more than 295,000 homes and financed more than 245,000 mortgages since its founding in 1967. Ryland is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “RYL.” Visit www.Ryland.com
Brian Cartwright, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Charleston region, said three and four-bedroom single-family homes at Whitney Lake will range in size from 1,600 square feet of living space to 1,929 square feet with detached garages.
Altogether Ryland Homes plans to build 81 new homes at Whitney Lake, Cartwright said.
Ryland Homes currently builds single family homes in seven communities throughout the Charleston-Myrtle Beach region. Visit www.ryland.com
About Ryland Homes
With headquarters in Southern California, Ryland is one of the nation’s largest homebuilders and a leading mortgage-finance company. The company currently operates in 13 states across the country and has built more than 295,000 homes and financed more than 245,000 mortgages since its founding in 1967. Ryland is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “RYL.” Visit www.Ryland.com
Mattamy Homes US Group Names New Home Counselors in the Orlando Region
WINTER PARK, Fla. --- Mattamy Homes US Group, the U.S. division of Canada’s largest home builder, recently appointed Elena Colón and Leisa Zanders New Home Counselors in its Orlando Division.
Steve Parker, president of Mattamy Homes US Group, said Colón has 13 years of experience in residential real estate sales. She formerly was a sales associate for another national homebuilder in the central Florida region. Parker said Colón holds an Associate in Arts degree from Seminole State College and a CSP (Certified New Home Sales Professional) designation through the National Assn. of Homebuilders (NAHB) continuing education. Colón will be working out of Mattamy’s community of The Reserve at Loch Lake off Lake Mary Blvd. in Seminole County.
Parker said Zanders, who has 10 years of experience in residential real estate sales, also joined Mattamy as a new home counselor. Zanders was formerly a sales associate with Zip Realty in Orlando. She will be assisting new homebuyers at two of the homebuilder’s communities – The Reserve at Loch Lake and Lake Jean in Winter Park.
About Mattamy Homes
Mattamy Homes, www.mattamyhomes.com, expanded into the U.S. in 2003 and is headquartered in Winter Park, FL with divisions in Orlando, FL; Jacksonville, FL; Phoenix, AZ; Minneapolis, MN; and Charlotte, NC. The homebuilder, the largest and most active in Canada with annual revenues exceeding $1.3 billion, was ranked among the highest of all homebuilders in the greater Toronto and Ottawa areas in a nationwide customer satisfaction survey conducted by J.D. Power Associates.
Steve Parker, president of Mattamy Homes US Group, said Colón has 13 years of experience in residential real estate sales. She formerly was a sales associate for another national homebuilder in the central Florida region. Parker said Colón holds an Associate in Arts degree from Seminole State College and a CSP (Certified New Home Sales Professional) designation through the National Assn. of Homebuilders (NAHB) continuing education. Colón will be working out of Mattamy’s community of The Reserve at Loch Lake off Lake Mary Blvd. in Seminole County.
Parker said Zanders, who has 10 years of experience in residential real estate sales, also joined Mattamy as a new home counselor. Zanders was formerly a sales associate with Zip Realty in Orlando. She will be assisting new homebuyers at two of the homebuilder’s communities – The Reserve at Loch Lake and Lake Jean in Winter Park.
About Mattamy Homes
Mattamy Homes, www.mattamyhomes.com, expanded into the U.S. in 2003 and is headquartered in Winter Park, FL with divisions in Orlando, FL; Jacksonville, FL; Phoenix, AZ; Minneapolis, MN; and Charlotte, NC. The homebuilder, the largest and most active in Canada with annual revenues exceeding $1.3 billion, was ranked among the highest of all homebuilders in the greater Toronto and Ottawa areas in a nationwide customer satisfaction survey conducted by J.D. Power Associates.
Pulte Homes to Host Prudential Tropical Realty New Home Specialist Training June 7 at Waterbridge at Stonebrier in Lutz
TAMPA, Fla. --- Pulte Homes will host a Prudential Tropical Realty New Home Specialist training session on Thursday, June 7, at Waterbridge at Stonebrier, located at 3202 Mapleridge Drive off County Line Rd. in Lutz.
Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said the New Home Specialist training session for Prudential Tropical Realty associates is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Prudential Tropical Realty associates who successfully complete the five-day, 18-hour New Home Specialist course and pass the exam will receive diplomas, above average consumer knowledge and additional preferred builder incentives.
“Prudential Tropical Realty offers an excellent New Home Specialist training course that includes more than 14 hours of classroom time and four hours of vital construction site study at one of Prudential Tropical’s preferred builder communities,” Strickler said.
“To date, Prudential Tropical Realty has graduated more than 200 agents, and has over 500 agents in the Tampa Bay market,” he added.
About Pulte Homes
Award-winning Pulte Homes communities are designed to deliver the best quality of life for home owners. By combining innovative life-enhancing designs, an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail, Pulte Homes is the nation’s premier home brand for upwardly mobile home buyers in 26 states and the District of Columbia. As the most awarded homebuilder in customer satisfaction, Pulte Homes has ranked tops in the annual JD Power and Associates® New-Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Studysm more than 75 times since 2000. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit www.pultehomes.com.
About PulteGroup
PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., is one of America’s largest home building companies with operations in approximately 60 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes and Del Webb, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup conducts extensive research to provide home buyers with innovative solutions and new homes designed for the way people actually live today. As the most awarded home builder in customer satisfaction, PulteGroup brands have consistently ranked among top home builders in third-party customer satisfaction studies.
For more information about PulteGroup, Inc. and PulteGroup brands, go to pultegroup.com; www.pulte.com; www.centex.com; www.delwebb.com
Sean Strickler, vice president of sales for Pulte Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said the New Home Specialist training session for Prudential Tropical Realty associates is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Prudential Tropical Realty associates who successfully complete the five-day, 18-hour New Home Specialist course and pass the exam will receive diplomas, above average consumer knowledge and additional preferred builder incentives.
“Prudential Tropical Realty offers an excellent New Home Specialist training course that includes more than 14 hours of classroom time and four hours of vital construction site study at one of Prudential Tropical’s preferred builder communities,” Strickler said.
“To date, Prudential Tropical Realty has graduated more than 200 agents, and has over 500 agents in the Tampa Bay market,” he added.
About Pulte Homes
Award-winning Pulte Homes communities are designed to deliver the best quality of life for home owners. By combining innovative life-enhancing designs, an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail, Pulte Homes is the nation’s premier home brand for upwardly mobile home buyers in 26 states and the District of Columbia. As the most awarded homebuilder in customer satisfaction, Pulte Homes has ranked tops in the annual JD Power and Associates® New-Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Studysm more than 75 times since 2000. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit www.pultehomes.com.
About PulteGroup
PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., is one of America’s largest home building companies with operations in approximately 60 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes and Del Webb, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup conducts extensive research to provide home buyers with innovative solutions and new homes designed for the way people actually live today. As the most awarded home builder in customer satisfaction, PulteGroup brands have consistently ranked among top home builders in third-party customer satisfaction studies.
For more information about PulteGroup, Inc. and PulteGroup brands, go to pultegroup.com; www.pulte.com; www.centex.com; www.delwebb.com
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty Appoints David W. Todd Global Real Estate Advisor
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty has appointed David W. Todd Global Real Estate Advisor in its Heathrow/Lake Mary Marketing Center.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said Todd earned two B.S. Degrees---one from the University of North Dakota in Education and another from Florida Southern University in Business Administration.
As a professional musician, Todd toured with such internationally known performers as Aerosmith, Bachman Turner Overdrive, Chubby Checker, Little Richard, Wishbone Ash and Guess Who.
As a specialty commercial real estate investor, Todd bought and sold food and beverage facilities throughout the country for more than a decade, acquiring distressed operations, restyling and renovating them and then reselling them.
As a residential real estate agent for more than 10 years, Todd earned Master Awards and Eagle Awards from Century 21 Realty.
“David Todd is a highly creative real estate professional whose perspective as investor, owner and seller is invaluable,” Soderstrom said. “We anticipate he will play a major role in our growth in the Central Florida area.”
Todd will focus on the Wekiva area, Longwood, Altamonte Springs and Lake Mary.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said Todd earned two B.S. Degrees---one from the University of North Dakota in Education and another from Florida Southern University in Business Administration.
As a professional musician, Todd toured with such internationally known performers as Aerosmith, Bachman Turner Overdrive, Chubby Checker, Little Richard, Wishbone Ash and Guess Who.
As a specialty commercial real estate investor, Todd bought and sold food and beverage facilities throughout the country for more than a decade, acquiring distressed operations, restyling and renovating them and then reselling them.
As a residential real estate agent for more than 10 years, Todd earned Master Awards and Eagle Awards from Century 21 Realty.
“David Todd is a highly creative real estate professional whose perspective as investor, owner and seller is invaluable,” Soderstrom said. “We anticipate he will play a major role in our growth in the Central Florida area.”
Todd will focus on the Wekiva area, Longwood, Altamonte Springs and Lake Mary.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Ryland plans grand opening at Rocky Creek in Citrus Park area of Tampa
TAMPA, Fla. --- Ryland Homes will host a grand opening of Rocky Creek, located off Ehrlich and Del Valle Roads close to the Suncoast Expressway in the Citrus Park area of Tampa.
Tony Crimi, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said 65 homes will be available at Rocky Creek, offering three and four bedrooms ranging in size from 1,804 square feet of living area to 3,852 square feet.
Prices of the homes at Rocky Creek range from $204,990 to $311,990.
At Rocky Creek, Ryland is showcasing the American Classic series of homes which offer traditional designs including some with front porches and rear entry garages.
Crimi said Ryland is offering 14 new floor plans at Rocky Creek.
About Ryland Homes
With headquarters in Southern California, Ryland is one of the nation’s largest homebuilders and a leading mortgage-finance company. The company currently operates in 13 states across the country and has built more than 295,000 homes and financed more than 245,000 mortgages since its founding in 1967. Ryland is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “RYL.” Visit www.Ryland.com
Tony Crimi, vice president of sales and marketing for Ryland Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said 65 homes will be available at Rocky Creek, offering three and four bedrooms ranging in size from 1,804 square feet of living area to 3,852 square feet.
Prices of the homes at Rocky Creek range from $204,990 to $311,990.
At Rocky Creek, Ryland is showcasing the American Classic series of homes which offer traditional designs including some with front porches and rear entry garages.
Crimi said Ryland is offering 14 new floor plans at Rocky Creek.
About Ryland Homes
With headquarters in Southern California, Ryland is one of the nation’s largest homebuilders and a leading mortgage-finance company. The company currently operates in 13 states across the country and has built more than 295,000 homes and financed more than 245,000 mortgages since its founding in 1967. Ryland is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “RYL.” Visit www.Ryland.com
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty has “Hot” Team in Volusia, Housing Market Makes Comeback in Area
ORLANDO, Fla.... Listing prices — the sale price of a home that’s posted when the home is listed for sale — is an accurate benchmark of perceived real estate values within a given regional market. And a recent study by Realtor.com shows that five of the nation’s top 10 markets for listing price increases are right here in Florida.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said for Rachel McGrath and Debbie Keilin, International Luxury Home Specialists at Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty in Volusia County, it’s already old news that the Daytona Beach region ranks eight in the nation for listing price growth. See http://www.inman.com/news/2012/04/26/top-10-markets-rising-list-prices
McGrath and Keilin closed on eight luxury homes in April that totaled more than $3.5 million and averaged $440,000 each, Soderstrom said.
“We have been seeing a steady growth of our listing inventory as the housing market recovers,” McGrath said. “Sellers are more confident, past sales indicate that prices are due to rise, and we’re seeing more buyers who are ready to move up to nicer homes or retire from the north,” she explained.
At the same time, Keilin said all of their listings are globally marketed on dozens of luxury internet portals around the world.
“We are seeing an increase in foreign buyer activity and it is becoming a significant part of our business,” she added.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said for Rachel McGrath and Debbie Keilin, International Luxury Home Specialists at Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty in Volusia County, it’s already old news that the Daytona Beach region ranks eight in the nation for listing price growth. See http://www.inman.com/news/2012/04/26/top-10-markets-rising-list-prices
McGrath and Keilin closed on eight luxury homes in April that totaled more than $3.5 million and averaged $440,000 each, Soderstrom said.
“We have been seeing a steady growth of our listing inventory as the housing market recovers,” McGrath said. “Sellers are more confident, past sales indicate that prices are due to rise, and we’re seeing more buyers who are ready to move up to nicer homes or retire from the north,” she explained.
At the same time, Keilin said all of their listings are globally marketed on dozens of luxury internet portals around the world.
“We are seeing an increase in foreign buyer activity and it is becoming a significant part of our business,” she added.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Park Square Homes Names Abbie Mirata Director of Sales, Marketing
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Park Square Homes, which builds new single family and town homes priced from the mid-$100s in seven Orlando area residential and resort communities, has appointed Abbie Mirata director of Sales and Marketing.
Vishaal Gupta, president and chief operating officer at Park Square Homes, said Mirata has more than 10 years of sales and marketing experience and formerly served as a national sales trainer for a major U.S. home builder.
“Abbie Mirata is a highly enthusiastic and highly experienced sales and marketing executive who will play a big role in our growth,” Gupta said.
Vishaal Gupta, president and chief operating officer at Park Square Homes, said Mirata has more than 10 years of sales and marketing experience and formerly served as a national sales trainer for a major U.S. home builder.
“Abbie Mirata is a highly enthusiastic and highly experienced sales and marketing executive who will play a big role in our growth,” Gupta said.
NAI Realvest Negotiates New Industrial Lease in Winter Springs for AXEP, Inc.
MAITLAND, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new industrial lease for 3,150 square feet at 255-A Old Sanford Oviedo Rd. in Winter Springs.
Michael Heidrich, a principal in the firm, brokered the transaction representing the landlord, Winter Springs-based Facts Venture #255, LLC and the tenant, AXEP, Inc., a local general contractor.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest in Orlando, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
Michael Heidrich, a principal in the firm, brokered the transaction representing the landlord, Winter Springs-based Facts Venture #255, LLC and the tenant, AXEP, Inc., a local general contractor.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest in Orlando, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Black Tree Consulting Introduces Streamlined, Paperless Real Estate Closing Service, Anticipates Nationwide Realtor Market
ORLANDO, Fla., --- Black Tree Consulting, Inc., an Orlando based real estate technology company, has developed a streamlined, paperless program of residential real estate closing transaction management it expects to become the industry’s gold standard over the next five years.
Michelle Theodoseau, chief operating officer at Black Tree Consulting, said Black Tree’s software and services provide real estate agencies and brokers with an outsourced solution to manage an entire real estate transaction and insure timeliness and legal compliance.
“Our transaction mangers are highly trained real estate professionals who have experience in multiple markets throughout the U.S.,” she explained.
“We have systematized the contract closing process,” she explained.
Theodoseau said real estate agencies and brokers who use her service can free themselves of the laborious process of real estate closing transactions to spend more time meeting their customer needs.
“Black Tree Consulting supports real estate agents, brokers and realty offices nationwide with expert, efficient services that allow them to do what they do best — list and show properties to prospective buyers,” Theodoseau explained.
Currently, Black Tree Consulting serves real estate agencies in Florida and Alabama. Theodoseau said Black Tree’s nationwide market scope, coupled with strong demand for cost-effective professional services in every region, indicates major growth potential over the next five years.
“We expect to grow to come become one of the nation’s largest real estate service agencies in the U.S. over the next five years,” she said.
Black Tree Consulting is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Michelle Theodoseau, chief operating officer at Black Tree Consulting, said Black Tree’s software and services provide real estate agencies and brokers with an outsourced solution to manage an entire real estate transaction and insure timeliness and legal compliance.
“Our transaction mangers are highly trained real estate professionals who have experience in multiple markets throughout the U.S.,” she explained.
“We have systematized the contract closing process,” she explained.
Theodoseau said real estate agencies and brokers who use her service can free themselves of the laborious process of real estate closing transactions to spend more time meeting their customer needs.
“Black Tree Consulting supports real estate agents, brokers and realty offices nationwide with expert, efficient services that allow them to do what they do best — list and show properties to prospective buyers,” Theodoseau explained.
Currently, Black Tree Consulting serves real estate agencies in Florida and Alabama. Theodoseau said Black Tree’s nationwide market scope, coupled with strong demand for cost-effective professional services in every region, indicates major growth potential over the next five years.
“We expect to grow to come become one of the nation’s largest real estate service agencies in the U.S. over the next five years,” she said.
Black Tree Consulting is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty Named Exclusive Broker for Unique Alaqua Estate Home
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty has been named exclusive sales and marketing agents for a unique luxury home on a one-acre golf course site at Alaqua Country Club, one of Seminole County’s most exclusive, gated and guarded communities on Markham Woods Road in Longwood.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Homes Specialist Mary Ann Hartmann is representing the property which is listed at $2,800,000.
The luxury home, built by award-winning custom home builder Charles Clayton Construction, offers five bedroom suites, and six full baths in 7,576 square feet of beautifully designed living space. A grand foyer and curved staircase are among the home’s stunning features along with upscale finishes that include travertine floors with wood inlay, granite, custom crafted cabinetry, and 12-inch baseboards.
The gourmet kitchen includes a center island, granite counters, a six-burner gas Viking stove and ovens, custom stone exhaust hood, Subzero refrigerator and freeze drawers.
A magnificent outdoor living area features a covered lanai, gas fireplace and separate open sided cabana with built-in grill and bar, a resort style swimming pool with heated spa, travertine pool deck, and a separate cabana house for guest accommodations.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Homes Specialist Mary Ann Hartmann is representing the property which is listed at $2,800,000.
The luxury home, built by award-winning custom home builder Charles Clayton Construction, offers five bedroom suites, and six full baths in 7,576 square feet of beautifully designed living space. A grand foyer and curved staircase are among the home’s stunning features along with upscale finishes that include travertine floors with wood inlay, granite, custom crafted cabinetry, and 12-inch baseboards.
The gourmet kitchen includes a center island, granite counters, a six-burner gas Viking stove and ovens, custom stone exhaust hood, Subzero refrigerator and freeze drawers.
A magnificent outdoor living area features a covered lanai, gas fireplace and separate open sided cabana with built-in grill and bar, a resort style swimming pool with heated spa, travertine pool deck, and a separate cabana house for guest accommodations.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Henin Homes to Start Construction of Seven Pre-Sold Homes at Riviera Bella
DEBARY, Fla. – Henin Homes will start construction of seven new pre-sold homes before June 1 at Riviera Bella, a luxury home community overlooking the St. John’s River in DeBary.
Jerome Henin, president of Henin Homes and the developer of Riviera Bella, said the seven new homes sold for prices that range from $225,000 to $450,000. The homes range in size from 1,900 square feet of living space to 4,500 square feet. Special features include water and conservation home sites, natural gas, tile roofs, paver driveways, and Olde World architectural finishes.
Henin said 18 home sites remain for sale at Riviera Bella where new homes are priced from the $190s to more than $500,000.
Jerome Henin, president of Henin Homes and the developer of Riviera Bella, said the seven new homes sold for prices that range from $225,000 to $450,000. The homes range in size from 1,900 square feet of living space to 4,500 square feet. Special features include water and conservation home sites, natural gas, tile roofs, paver driveways, and Olde World architectural finishes.
Henin said 18 home sites remain for sale at Riviera Bella where new homes are priced from the $190s to more than $500,000.
Reliable Systems Solutions CEO to Conduct Seminar for Engineers at PlanetPTC Conference in Orlando
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Richard Coronado, founder and CEO of Reliable Systems Solutions, a leading U.S. provider of Reliability Engineering Services in the aerospace, aviation, commercial and defense industries, will conduct a seminar on “How to Implement an Effective Reliability Program Plan” on June 4 at the PlanetPTC conference in Orlando.
Coronado, whose company develops systems to test and certify the reliability of design, engineering and modeling projects, said his seminar will highlight the integration of Design for Reliability during product development.
Reliability engineering focuses on the costs of product or service failure caused by system downtime, cost of spares, repair equipment, personnel and cost of warranty claims. Incorporating reliability engineering into the design and development of a product or service will great increase the safety, dependability, and maintainability while reducing costs to the manufacturer of product replacements and warranty claims.
The seminar is scheduled from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. in the Gatlin A-4 conference room at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort.
For more information visit live.planetptc.com/usa or reliablesystemsolution.com.
Reliable Systems Solutions is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program, located in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Coronado, whose company develops systems to test and certify the reliability of design, engineering and modeling projects, said his seminar will highlight the integration of Design for Reliability during product development.
Reliability engineering focuses on the costs of product or service failure caused by system downtime, cost of spares, repair equipment, personnel and cost of warranty claims. Incorporating reliability engineering into the design and development of a product or service will great increase the safety, dependability, and maintainability while reducing costs to the manufacturer of product replacements and warranty claims.
The seminar is scheduled from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. in the Gatlin A-4 conference room at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort.
For more information visit live.planetptc.com/usa or reliablesystemsolution.com.
Reliable Systems Solutions is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program, located in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Lennar Starts Construction of Two New Model Homes at Concord Station in Land O’Lakes
TAMPA, Fla. --- Lennar’s Central Florida Division has broken ground on two new model homes at Concord Station, located off S.R. 54 two miles east of Veterans Parkway in Land O’Lakes.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said both new model homes will be ready in July.
The Mayflower model home offers four bedrooms and a loft in 2,529 square feet of living space with a two-car garage.
The Monte Carlo model home offers five bedrooms plus bonus room in 3,210 square feet of living space with a three-car garage.
Lennar is building 85 new homes in the current phase at Concord Station.
New homes at Concord Station are priced from the low $200s.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said both new model homes will be ready in July.
The Mayflower model home offers four bedrooms and a loft in 2,529 square feet of living space with a two-car garage.
The Monte Carlo model home offers five bedrooms plus bonus room in 3,210 square feet of living space with a three-car garage.
Lennar is building 85 new homes in the current phase at Concord Station.
New homes at Concord Station are priced from the low $200s.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
CEO Nexus to Host CEO Forum at Rollins College June 12 with Philip Holt, Founder of Video Game Studio Row Sham Bow
ORLANDO, Fla. --- CEO Nexus will host its next CEO Forum at Rollins College Tuesday, June 12, featuring keynote speaker Philip Holt, founder, president and chief executive officer of online gaming studio Row Sham Bow in Orlando.
Steve Quello, president of CEO Nexus, said the Forum, which begins at 6 p.m. in the Gallery at Rollins College, is open to area CEOs and corporate principals.
Quello said Holt is a highly respected pioneer in the digital gaming industry. As general manager of EA Sports, a subsidiary EA Tiburon, Holt played a major role in shaping the Madden NFL series into one of the most popular gaming suites on the market and making EA Tiburon’s PGA gaming brands an industry benchmark.
Holt left EA Sports last year to launch Row Sham Bow, which now has a full-time staff of more than 17 engineers, creative directors and technicians. Row Sham Bow recently launched the game Woodland Heroes on FaceBook.
“This is a great forum to get up close and personal with industry leaders like Philip Holt.” said Dr. Tom O’Neal, executive director of the Florida Economic Gardening Institute and associate vice president for Research and Commercialization at UCF. “I’m sure it will be a rewarding experience for all that are fortunate enough to attend.”
To register for the CEO Forum at Rollins, or to learn more about CEO Nexus, visit www.ceonexus.com.
CEO Nexus is an organization that works in concert with public and private organizations interested in providing business leaders—owners, CEOs and presidents—with practical tools and techniques designed specifically for growing second-stage companies. Sponsors include the Edward Lowe Foundation, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council, the University of Central Florida Office of Research & Commercialization, Rollins College Center for Advanced Entrepreneurship and GrowFL.
Steve Quello, president of CEO Nexus, said the Forum, which begins at 6 p.m. in the Gallery at Rollins College, is open to area CEOs and corporate principals.
Quello said Holt is a highly respected pioneer in the digital gaming industry. As general manager of EA Sports, a subsidiary EA Tiburon, Holt played a major role in shaping the Madden NFL series into one of the most popular gaming suites on the market and making EA Tiburon’s PGA gaming brands an industry benchmark.
Holt left EA Sports last year to launch Row Sham Bow, which now has a full-time staff of more than 17 engineers, creative directors and technicians. Row Sham Bow recently launched the game Woodland Heroes on FaceBook.
“This is a great forum to get up close and personal with industry leaders like Philip Holt.” said Dr. Tom O’Neal, executive director of the Florida Economic Gardening Institute and associate vice president for Research and Commercialization at UCF. “I’m sure it will be a rewarding experience for all that are fortunate enough to attend.”
To register for the CEO Forum at Rollins, or to learn more about CEO Nexus, visit www.ceonexus.com.
CEO Nexus is an organization that works in concert with public and private organizations interested in providing business leaders—owners, CEOs and presidents—with practical tools and techniques designed specifically for growing second-stage companies. Sponsors include the Edward Lowe Foundation, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council, the University of Central Florida Office of Research & Commercialization, Rollins College Center for Advanced Entrepreneurship and GrowFL.
Amelia National Completes Construction of $185,000 Wall, Introduces Portfolio of 21 New Luxury Home Designs
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. --- Amelia National Golf & Country Club recently completed construction of a permanent wall along the concourse on the community’s southern boundary.
David Haas, chief development officer at ICI Homes and Amelia National, said the cost of construction was $185,000.
The Concourse wall is just part of the flurry of activity underway at Amelia National. The club has hosted several local charitable events and tournaments in the last several months. “We like to show off the property whenever we can,” said Haas. “Over the last three years, more than $2 million has been spent on maintenance, carry costs and improvements for the Amelia National community. Our solid long-term commitment to the project is beginning to yield some promising results.”
For example, Haas recently brought in a nationally respected, independent golf course consultant to do a top-down review of the Tom Fazio designed course and club operation. “We were very pleased that they gave us an excellent rating for maintenance and operations.”
Keeping Amelia National in the spotlight and in tip-top shape is paying off. “Sales activity at Amelia National is up year over year and we anticipate an even better 2013,” said Rosemary Messina, vice president of sales and marketing. “We recently launched a Discovery Tour program to focus on out of state homebuyers and bring them in to familiarize them with the property, the homes, the magnificent golf course and clubhouse. With five tours booked in the last six weeks, interest is high and that bodes well for the future,” she said.
“The Discovery Tour program was also timed to take advantage of the recent launch of a new portfolio of luxury custom home designs at Amelia National,” said Don Wilford, ICI Homes division president, who is responsible for the design and construction for ICI Homes in the north Florida area.
The design portfolio includes 21 new floor plans that can be fully customized and range in size from 2,321 square feet of living space to 4,050 square feet with three, four, five and six bedrooms and priced from $289,900 to $800,000.
“Amelia National is in the perfect position to benefit from an improving economy with luxury custom home sales,” said Haas. “We’re debt-free, and that puts us in a unique position in the market.”
About ICI Homes
ICI Homes is ranked by Builder magazine as one of the top 100 homebuilders in the nation. The 32+-year-old firm builds new homes and resort facilities in the Volusia-Flagler region as well as in Jacksonville, Orlando, Melbourne and Tampa.
David Haas, chief development officer at ICI Homes and Amelia National, said the cost of construction was $185,000.
The Concourse wall is just part of the flurry of activity underway at Amelia National. The club has hosted several local charitable events and tournaments in the last several months. “We like to show off the property whenever we can,” said Haas. “Over the last three years, more than $2 million has been spent on maintenance, carry costs and improvements for the Amelia National community. Our solid long-term commitment to the project is beginning to yield some promising results.”
For example, Haas recently brought in a nationally respected, independent golf course consultant to do a top-down review of the Tom Fazio designed course and club operation. “We were very pleased that they gave us an excellent rating for maintenance and operations.”
Keeping Amelia National in the spotlight and in tip-top shape is paying off. “Sales activity at Amelia National is up year over year and we anticipate an even better 2013,” said Rosemary Messina, vice president of sales and marketing. “We recently launched a Discovery Tour program to focus on out of state homebuyers and bring them in to familiarize them with the property, the homes, the magnificent golf course and clubhouse. With five tours booked in the last six weeks, interest is high and that bodes well for the future,” she said.
“The Discovery Tour program was also timed to take advantage of the recent launch of a new portfolio of luxury custom home designs at Amelia National,” said Don Wilford, ICI Homes division president, who is responsible for the design and construction for ICI Homes in the north Florida area.
The design portfolio includes 21 new floor plans that can be fully customized and range in size from 2,321 square feet of living space to 4,050 square feet with three, four, five and six bedrooms and priced from $289,900 to $800,000.
“Amelia National is in the perfect position to benefit from an improving economy with luxury custom home sales,” said Haas. “We’re debt-free, and that puts us in a unique position in the market.”
About ICI Homes
ICI Homes is ranked by Builder magazine as one of the top 100 homebuilders in the nation. The 32+-year-old firm builds new homes and resort facilities in the Volusia-Flagler region as well as in Jacksonville, Orlando, Melbourne and Tampa.
Hometown Health TV in Leesburg, Fla. Named Outstanding Incubator Client at International Conference
Atlanta, Ga. / Leesburg, Fla. – Hometown Health TV LLC, a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in Leesburg, Fla., received an international award at the National Business Incubation Association’s International Conference on Business Incubation.
The NBIA award – the 2012 Outstanding Incubator Client in the non-technology category – was presented to Hometown Health TV founder and media and marketing professional Marc Robertz-Schwartz at the NBIA’s recent conference in Atlanta. The company was selected from a field of applicants from across the globe.
“I don’t think any small business launches with this kind of recognition on its list of things to do; I think that’s what makes this recognition so humbling and gratifying. Three years ago I didn’t even know what an incubator was or how it could help me grow a successful business. Today – with the support of the UCF Business Incubation program, Lake County and the City of Leesburg – we’re being looked at as a model and, perhaps, an inspiration to other small businesses during a challenging economy,” Robertz-Schwartz said after receiving the prestigious award.
With more than 7,000 business incubators worldwide, the NBIA – the world's leading organization in advancing business incubation – estimates that in 2005 alone, North American incubators assisted more than 27,000 start-up companies that provided full-time employment for more than 100,000 workers and generated annual revenue of more than $17 billion, according to Linda Knopp, director of policy and analysis and research for the National Business Incubation Association.
“Business incubation programs like the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program catalyze the process of starting and growing companies by providing entrepreneurs with the expertise, networks and tools they need to make their ventures successful,” she said.
Hometown Health TV, a three-year-old Lake County health and medical-oriented TV production company, launched Hometown Health, with the goal of developing cost-effective video and web platforms for physicians and healthcare professionals so they could share their expertise on health issues with both existing and new patients watching the videos, according to Robertz-Schwartz.
The monthly, hour-long videos provide health and wellness information through a network of medical office waiting rooms, county health departments, local cable networks and the Internet. As market demand for its services expanded, Hometown Health TV created Apple Seed Marketing in 2011 to expand its multi award winning production and marketing expertise to clients outside the health-care field and to educate businesses and clients on the multiplatform marketing opportunities associated with quality video production.
James Spencer, site manager of the Leesburg incubator, said he isn’t surprised at the success of Hometown Health TV and its sister company Apple Seed Marketing.
“I’m very pleased that Marc has been recognized by the NBIA for all the hard work, long hours and focused energy he’s put into making Hometown Health TV and Apple Seed Marketing such successful companies. His unwavering commitment to creating value for his customers drives him to deliver award winning quality and results that consistently meet and exceed their expectations. I suspect this is just the beginning for Marc... I can’t wait to see what he does next!” Spencer said.
Dr. Tom O’Neal, founder of the UCF Business Incubation Program and NBIA board member, describes Robertz-Schwartz as a gifted entrepreneur who knows his market.
“It’s very rewarding for us to have one of our clients receive accolades for their achievements. Entrepreneurship can often seem like a lonely undertaking with little positive reinforcements for the effort it takes to not only survive, but grow. We should celebrate these entrepreneurs whenever we can,” said O’Neal
For more information about Hometown Health News, visit www.YourHometownHealth.com.
About Hometown Health TV:
Hometown Health TV is complemented by its website www.YourHometownHealth.com and a YouTube channel (www.YouTube.com/HometownHealth), both of which include access to the most recent content featured in the video program, as well as profiles of the participating medical professionals and support content. Information about Apple Seed Marketing can be found at www.AppleSeedMarketing.com
About the UCF Incubation Program:
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
The NBIA award – the 2012 Outstanding Incubator Client in the non-technology category – was presented to Hometown Health TV founder and media and marketing professional Marc Robertz-Schwartz at the NBIA’s recent conference in Atlanta. The company was selected from a field of applicants from across the globe.
“I don’t think any small business launches with this kind of recognition on its list of things to do; I think that’s what makes this recognition so humbling and gratifying. Three years ago I didn’t even know what an incubator was or how it could help me grow a successful business. Today – with the support of the UCF Business Incubation program, Lake County and the City of Leesburg – we’re being looked at as a model and, perhaps, an inspiration to other small businesses during a challenging economy,” Robertz-Schwartz said after receiving the prestigious award.
With more than 7,000 business incubators worldwide, the NBIA – the world's leading organization in advancing business incubation – estimates that in 2005 alone, North American incubators assisted more than 27,000 start-up companies that provided full-time employment for more than 100,000 workers and generated annual revenue of more than $17 billion, according to Linda Knopp, director of policy and analysis and research for the National Business Incubation Association.
“Business incubation programs like the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program catalyze the process of starting and growing companies by providing entrepreneurs with the expertise, networks and tools they need to make their ventures successful,” she said.
Hometown Health TV, a three-year-old Lake County health and medical-oriented TV production company, launched Hometown Health, with the goal of developing cost-effective video and web platforms for physicians and healthcare professionals so they could share their expertise on health issues with both existing and new patients watching the videos, according to Robertz-Schwartz.
The monthly, hour-long videos provide health and wellness information through a network of medical office waiting rooms, county health departments, local cable networks and the Internet. As market demand for its services expanded, Hometown Health TV created Apple Seed Marketing in 2011 to expand its multi award winning production and marketing expertise to clients outside the health-care field and to educate businesses and clients on the multiplatform marketing opportunities associated with quality video production.
James Spencer, site manager of the Leesburg incubator, said he isn’t surprised at the success of Hometown Health TV and its sister company Apple Seed Marketing.
“I’m very pleased that Marc has been recognized by the NBIA for all the hard work, long hours and focused energy he’s put into making Hometown Health TV and Apple Seed Marketing such successful companies. His unwavering commitment to creating value for his customers drives him to deliver award winning quality and results that consistently meet and exceed their expectations. I suspect this is just the beginning for Marc... I can’t wait to see what he does next!” Spencer said.
Dr. Tom O’Neal, founder of the UCF Business Incubation Program and NBIA board member, describes Robertz-Schwartz as a gifted entrepreneur who knows his market.
“It’s very rewarding for us to have one of our clients receive accolades for their achievements. Entrepreneurship can often seem like a lonely undertaking with little positive reinforcements for the effort it takes to not only survive, but grow. We should celebrate these entrepreneurs whenever we can,” said O’Neal
For more information about Hometown Health News, visit www.YourHometownHealth.com.
About Hometown Health TV:
Hometown Health TV is complemented by its website www.YourHometownHealth.com and a YouTube channel (www.YouTube.com/HometownHealth), both of which include access to the most recent content featured in the video program, as well as profiles of the participating medical professionals and support content. Information about Apple Seed Marketing can be found at www.AppleSeedMarketing.com
About the UCF Incubation Program:
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Staff at Pulte Homes, Centex and Del Webb in Tampa volunteer for kitchen duty to help feed homeless people at Trinity Café
TAMPA, Fla. --- General sales manager Mike Finley and 14 other members of the Pulte Homes, Centex and Del Webb sales team in Tampa volunteered for kitchen duty recently to help feed homeless men, women and families at Trinity Café in downtown Tampa.
Finley, who organized the volunteer day, said he was impressed with the enthusiasm his staff exhibited.
“I’m sure we will return to do this again,” Finley said. “We were very impressed by the people we met on both sides of the counter. I would encourage everyone to get involved helping the community, the sense of accomplishment is enormous,” he said.
About Pulte Homes
Award winning Pulte Homes communities are designed to deliver the best quality of life for home owners. By combining innovative life-enhancing designs, an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail, Pulte Homes is the nation’s premier home brand for upwardly mobile home buyers in 26 states and the District of Columbia. As the most awarded homebuilder in customer satisfaction, Pulte Homes has ranked tops in the annual JD Power and Associates® New-Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Studysm more than 75 times since 2000. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit www.pultehomes.com.
About PulteGroup
PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., is one of America’s largest home building companies with operations in approximately 60 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes and Del Webb, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup conducts extensive research to provide home buyers with innovative solutions and new homes designed for the way people actually live today. As the most awarded home builder in customer satisfaction, PulteGroup brands have consistently ranked among top home builders in third-party customer satisfaction studies.
Finley, who organized the volunteer day, said he was impressed with the enthusiasm his staff exhibited.
“I’m sure we will return to do this again,” Finley said. “We were very impressed by the people we met on both sides of the counter. I would encourage everyone to get involved helping the community, the sense of accomplishment is enormous,” he said.
About Pulte Homes
Award winning Pulte Homes communities are designed to deliver the best quality of life for home owners. By combining innovative life-enhancing designs, an unwavering commitment to quality and attention to detail, Pulte Homes is the nation’s premier home brand for upwardly mobile home buyers in 26 states and the District of Columbia. As the most awarded homebuilder in customer satisfaction, Pulte Homes has ranked tops in the annual JD Power and Associates® New-Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Studysm more than 75 times since 2000. For more information about Pulte Homes, visit www.pultehomes.com.
About PulteGroup
PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE: PHM), based in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., is one of America’s largest home building companies with operations in approximately 60 markets throughout the country. Through its brand portfolio that includes Centex, Pulte Homes and Del Webb, the company is one of the industry’s most versatile homebuilders able to meet the needs of multiple buyer groups and respond to changing consumer demand. PulteGroup conducts extensive research to provide home buyers with innovative solutions and new homes designed for the way people actually live today. As the most awarded home builder in customer satisfaction, PulteGroup brands have consistently ranked among top home builders in third-party customer satisfaction studies.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Stirling Sotheby's Int'l Realty closes cash sale of Windermere property to Brazilian buyer for $1.125 million
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty recently closed on the $1.125 million cash sale of a four bedroom, 4.5 bath luxury home overlooking Lake Robert at Waterford Pointe in Windermere.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Home Specialist Benjiman Hillman negotiated the sale on behalf of the seller, who lives in New Zealand.
The buyer, who currently lives in Brazil, made an offer on the property only 42 days after Hillman listed it. “I had the home staged by Show Homes and was still in the process of arranging professional photography and video when the buyer made contact,” said Hillman.
Hillman said the sale of the 7,344 square foot home took 72 days total from listing to closing the sale at over 95 percent of the list price.
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is a global marketing center that links luxury properties in Central Florida with foreign investor buyers and sellers.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Home Specialist Benjiman Hillman negotiated the sale on behalf of the seller, who lives in New Zealand.
The buyer, who currently lives in Brazil, made an offer on the property only 42 days after Hillman listed it. “I had the home staged by Show Homes and was still in the process of arranging professional photography and video when the buyer made contact,” said Hillman.
Hillman said the sale of the 7,344 square foot home took 72 days total from listing to closing the sale at over 95 percent of the list price.
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is a global marketing center that links luxury properties in Central Florida with foreign investor buyers and sellers.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
NAI Realvest Negotiates Lease Agreement for 11,600 square feet of Industrial Space at Poinciana CommerCenter West in Kissimmee
ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a lease for 11,600 square feet of industrial space at 1780 Business Center Lane at Poinciana CommerCenter West in Kissimmee.
Michael Heidrich, a principal at NAI Realvest, negotiated the transaction representing the landlord, Maitland-based Poinciana CommerCenter West, LLC.
The tenant, Deeja Foods, Inc. leased another one of the largest spaces at Poinciana CommerCenter West. Earlier this year Deeja, represented by Jean Badley of Overton Realty, also leased 13,600 square feet at 1770 Business Center Lane in Poinciana CommerCenter West.
About NAI Realvest:
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.nairealvest.com.
Michael Heidrich, a principal at NAI Realvest, negotiated the transaction representing the landlord, Maitland-based Poinciana CommerCenter West, LLC.
The tenant, Deeja Foods, Inc. leased another one of the largest spaces at Poinciana CommerCenter West. Earlier this year Deeja, represented by Jean Badley of Overton Realty, also leased 13,600 square feet at 1770 Business Center Lane in Poinciana CommerCenter West.
About NAI Realvest:
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.nairealvest.com.
Ashton Woods Homes Starts Construction of 15 Town Homes at Fountain Park in Lake Mary
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Ashton Woods Homes has started construction of 15 new town homes at Fountain Park, located off Rinehart Road in Lake Mary.
Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Orlando region, said the new three-bedroom town homes range in size from 2,070 square feet of living space to 2,504 square feet.
New town homes at Fountain Square are priced from $219,990.
Ashton Woods Homes, headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation’s largest private homebuilding companies with operations in growth communities in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Killeen, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Raleigh and Tampa. For more information, visit http://www.ashtonwoods.com .
Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Orlando region, said the new three-bedroom town homes range in size from 2,070 square feet of living space to 2,504 square feet.
New town homes at Fountain Square are priced from $219,990.
Ashton Woods Homes, headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation’s largest private homebuilding companies with operations in growth communities in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Killeen, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Raleigh and Tampa. For more information, visit http://www.ashtonwoods.com .
Ashton Woods Homes opens ready-to-move-in home for sale at Mira Bay in Apollo Beach
TAMPA, Fla. --- Ashton Woods Homes has opened a ready-to-move-in single-family home on Manns Harbor Drive in Mira Bay, the luxury waterfront community Newland Communities has developed in Apollo Beach.
Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said the Layton model home offers four bedrooms and two baths in 2,234 square feet of living space with a two-car garage.
Priced at $277,933, the Layton offers a private sunroom adjacent to its large master suite. Two additional bedrooms are separated by a formal living/dining area. The breakfast nook opens to a family room, and the home features tile floors throughout, upgraded cabinetry and crown molding.
Ashton Woods Homes, headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation’s largest private homebuilding companies with operations in growth communities in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Killeen, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Raleigh and Tampa. For more information, visit http://www.ashtonwoods.com .
Michael Roche, vice president of sales and marketing for Ashton Woods Homes in the Tampa Bay region, said the Layton model home offers four bedrooms and two baths in 2,234 square feet of living space with a two-car garage.
Priced at $277,933, the Layton offers a private sunroom adjacent to its large master suite. Two additional bedrooms are separated by a formal living/dining area. The breakfast nook opens to a family room, and the home features tile floors throughout, upgraded cabinetry and crown molding.
Ashton Woods Homes, headquartered in Atlanta, is one of the nation’s largest private homebuilding companies with operations in growth communities in Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Killeen, Orlando, Phoenix, San Antonio, Raleigh and Tampa. For more information, visit http://www.ashtonwoods.com .
Emerson International reports new lease agreement for 1,631 square feet of office space at Sanlando I in Longwood
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. --- Emerson International recently leased 1,631 square feet of Class A office space to Auto Guardian USA, LLC at Sanlando I, located at 2170 W. SR 434 in Longwood.
Eric Emerson, vice president and general manager of Emerson International, Inc. said Kenneth Koch, commercial portfolio director at Emerson, negotiated the lease agreement representing Emerson as landlord.
About Emerson International
Emerson International is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Emerson Group, the global corporation that is one of the largest privately-owned property development companies.
Eric Emerson, vice president and general manager of Emerson International, Inc. said Kenneth Koch, commercial portfolio director at Emerson, negotiated the lease agreement representing Emerson as landlord.
About Emerson International
Emerson International is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Emerson Group, the global corporation that is one of the largest privately-owned property development companies.
InternEdge President Plays Starring Role at Sixth Annual Millennial Mega MashUP Event in Miami
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Adam Singh, President of InternEdge in Orlando, played a starring role at the sixth annual Millennial Mega MashUP Event (http://www.internedge.com/millennial-mega-mashup) in Miami recently.
As a keynote speaker at the event, Singh shared the dais with some of the biggest names in youth culture, including Robert D'Onofrio of FACEBOOK; MTV's Nick Shore; Comedy Central's Chanon Cook; Vince Voron of the Coca-Cola Company; Andrew Slack of the Harry Potter Alliance; Neil Howe of Lifecourse Associates, who coined the term “Millennials,” Drake Doremus, Director of the Sundance award-winning film Like Crazy, and David Levithan, editor of The Hunger Games.
Singh spoke about how companies can attract top millennial talent with three main resources: social media, new research on behaviors and emotional triggers found in Ypulse’s recently published survey and insights report on Millennials, “Education, Employment, and Finances;,” and a sharp focus on the Return on Investment generated by recruitment marketing tactics strategies.
“Millennials include 100 million consumers born between 1982 and 2004,” Singh said. “They include tweens, teens, collegians, young adults and contemporary families with purchasing power of more than $730 billion.”
The sixth annual Millennial Mega MashUP Event, presented by IIR USA in partnership with Ypulse, is a conference designed to help participants better align their market efforts to Millennials, Singh said.
“The Millennial Mega MashUP redefines not just who Millennials are, but what they are becoming and what this means for brands and businesses that hope to appeal to them,” Singh explained.
Watch Adam Singh’s Millennial Mega MashUP keynote presentation, “Recruitment Marketing and Millennials,” as well as download both the presentation deck and a free eBook that elaborates on the key points made at http://www.internedge.com/recruitment-marketing-and-millennials.
InternEdge offers social recruitment solutions to help companies source the brightest student talent for their internship and entry-level positions.
InternEdge is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program:
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
As a keynote speaker at the event, Singh shared the dais with some of the biggest names in youth culture, including Robert D'Onofrio of FACEBOOK; MTV's Nick Shore; Comedy Central's Chanon Cook; Vince Voron of the Coca-Cola Company; Andrew Slack of the Harry Potter Alliance; Neil Howe of Lifecourse Associates, who coined the term “Millennials,” Drake Doremus, Director of the Sundance award-winning film Like Crazy, and David Levithan, editor of The Hunger Games.
Singh spoke about how companies can attract top millennial talent with three main resources: social media, new research on behaviors and emotional triggers found in Ypulse’s recently published survey and insights report on Millennials, “Education, Employment, and Finances;,” and a sharp focus on the Return on Investment generated by recruitment marketing tactics strategies.
“Millennials include 100 million consumers born between 1982 and 2004,” Singh said. “They include tweens, teens, collegians, young adults and contemporary families with purchasing power of more than $730 billion.”
The sixth annual Millennial Mega MashUP Event, presented by IIR USA in partnership with Ypulse, is a conference designed to help participants better align their market efforts to Millennials, Singh said.
“The Millennial Mega MashUP redefines not just who Millennials are, but what they are becoming and what this means for brands and businesses that hope to appeal to them,” Singh explained.
Watch Adam Singh’s Millennial Mega MashUP keynote presentation, “Recruitment Marketing and Millennials,” as well as download both the presentation deck and a free eBook that elaborates on the key points made at http://www.internedge.com/recruitment-marketing-and-millennials.
InternEdge offers social recruitment solutions to help companies source the brightest student talent for their internship and entry-level positions.
InternEdge is a client company of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program:
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Friday, May 18, 2012
NAI Realvest Negotiates Two New Office Lease Agreements in Lake Mary and Maitland
MAITLAND, Fla. --- NAI Realvest recently negotiated two new lease agreements in Lake Mary and Maitland totaling 2,124 square feet of Class A office space.
Senior Broker Associate Mary Frances West, CCIM represented the tenant RPO Management LLC in the lease of 1,002 square feet at Lucien Green, 2250 Lucien Way, Suite 270 in Maitland. Natany Bramingham, Inc. of Warrington, Pa., is the landlord and was represented by Nathan Eissler of Realty Capital.
In Lake Mary, West represented the landlord, Interchange-Primera II, LLC of Daytona Beach in a lease agreement with Stewart Title Company for suite 105 with 1,122 square feet in Primera Court II at 735 Primera Blvd. The new tenant, who was represented by Nan McCormick of CBRE, is relocating from Altamonte Springs.
The 31,840 square foot Primera Court II is currently 96 percent leased.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
Senior Broker Associate Mary Frances West, CCIM represented the tenant RPO Management LLC in the lease of 1,002 square feet at Lucien Green, 2250 Lucien Way, Suite 270 in Maitland. Natany Bramingham, Inc. of Warrington, Pa., is the landlord and was represented by Nathan Eissler of Realty Capital.
In Lake Mary, West represented the landlord, Interchange-Primera II, LLC of Daytona Beach in a lease agreement with Stewart Title Company for suite 105 with 1,122 square feet in Primera Court II at 735 Primera Blvd. The new tenant, who was represented by Nan McCormick of CBRE, is relocating from Altamonte Springs.
The 31,840 square foot Primera Court II is currently 96 percent leased.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.
Park Square Homes Opens New Phase of Townhomes Priced from the $120s at Prairie Lake Reserve in Ocoee
ORLANDO, Fla. – Park Square Homes has opened a new phase with townhomes priced from the $120s at Prairie Lake Reserve, located off A.D. Mims Road and Clarke Road in Ocoee.
Vishaal Gupta, president and chief operating officer at Park Square Homes, said the new phase will include 60 new three and four bedroom townhomes that range in size from 1,600 square feet of living space to 1,800 square feet.
A gated community, Prairie Lake Reserve features a community swimming pool, clubhouse and children’s playground.
Visit www.parksquarehomes.com
About Park Square Homes
Park Square Homes is one of Central Florida’s premier production and vacation homebuilders. Founded in Orlando in 1984, the company has constructed thousands of homes in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. Park Square Homes is ranked as one of the largest homebuilders in Central Florida and is considered a pioneer and innovator in Florida’s resort home market.
Vishaal Gupta, president and chief operating officer at Park Square Homes, said the new phase will include 60 new three and four bedroom townhomes that range in size from 1,600 square feet of living space to 1,800 square feet.
A gated community, Prairie Lake Reserve features a community swimming pool, clubhouse and children’s playground.
Visit www.parksquarehomes.com
About Park Square Homes
Park Square Homes is one of Central Florida’s premier production and vacation homebuilders. Founded in Orlando in 1984, the company has constructed thousands of homes in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. Park Square Homes is ranked as one of the largest homebuilders in Central Florida and is considered a pioneer and innovator in Florida’s resort home market.
Lennar’s Central Florida Division releases 60 single family villa homes, 60 town homes at Hawks Point in Ruskin
TAMPA, Fla. --- Lennar’s Central Florida Division has released 60 single family villa homes and 60 town homes for sale at Hawks Point, located on Oak Pond Street in Ruskin, off 19th Avenue, west of U.S. 301 in the SouthShore area of Hillsborough County.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said two and three bedroom single family villa homes at Hawk’s Point range in size from 1,400 square feet of living space to 1,517 square feet with one car garages, priced from $129,990.
Metheny said 60 town homes at Hawk’s Point priced from the $130s range in size from 1,747 square feet of living space to 2,162 square feet. Three floor plans are available.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said two and three bedroom single family villa homes at Hawk’s Point range in size from 1,400 square feet of living space to 1,517 square feet with one car garages, priced from $129,990.
Metheny said 60 town homes at Hawk’s Point priced from the $130s range in size from 1,747 square feet of living space to 2,162 square feet. Three floor plans are available.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
First Green Bank names Denise Smith Customer Service Representative at its Clermont branch
Mount Dora, Fla. – First Green Bank has appointed Denise Smith as a customer service representative at its Clermont branch.
Ken LaRoe, chairman and chief executive officer of First Green Bank, said Smith has more than 20 years of banking experience in both the retail side and in operations.
Smith was formerly a collections supervisor with Bank of America and most recently was employed with First Southern Bank in Orange County.
Smith is currently working on her AA degree at Valencia College.
First Green Bank opened in 2009 and has a branch in Ormond Beach in addition to Clermont.
The recently opened Mount Dora headquarters is the second privately constructed building in Florida to qualify for the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Platinum certification for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Ken LaRoe, chairman and chief executive officer of First Green Bank, said Smith has more than 20 years of banking experience in both the retail side and in operations.
Smith was formerly a collections supervisor with Bank of America and most recently was employed with First Southern Bank in Orange County.
Smith is currently working on her AA degree at Valencia College.
First Green Bank opened in 2009 and has a branch in Ormond Beach in addition to Clermont.
The recently opened Mount Dora headquarters is the second privately constructed building in Florida to qualify for the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Platinum certification for energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty named exclusive broker for 790 acre Sportsman’s Ranch and Equestrian Facility near Palm Beach
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, a global marketing company, has been named exclusive sales and marketing agents for the 790 acre Sunlight Ranch, an international sportsman’s ranch and 32 acre equestrian center within 30 minutes of Palm Beach, Jupiter Island and Wellington.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said that the large open acreage ranch and accompanying equestrian complex, listed for sale at $11.9 million, will likely attract interest from US and international buyers.
The 790-acre Sunlight Ranch is a riding, hunting, fishing and outdoor sportsman’s paradise, boasting abundant fish, game and wildlife in their natural habitat. The property features a 32-acre equestrian facility that includes a main show barn with 25 stalls, show rings, polo club barns, polo fields and a clubhouse.
“The Sunlight Saddle and Polo Club is presently the “home-base” training facility for renowned international professionals, Olympians, professional equestrian teams, and experts in all riding sports including western riding, show jumping, dressage and polo,” Soderstrom said.
The ranch includes more than 12 miles of scenic bridle trails winding throughout the property. The property also fronts the cross-state St. Lucie-Okeechobee-Fort Meyers canal, providing easy access to Florida’s intracoastal waterway, the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
“The diverse current lifestyle usage opportunities and the long-term development potential of the 20-acre deed restricted home sites are enormous, and we expect the list of potential buyers will include some of the most recognizable names in international business, commerce, finance, entertainment and equestrian sports,” Soderstrom said.
To view a video produced by Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty go to http://www.wellcomemat.com/stirlingsir/E0DEB09771.html and to see an eBrochure, http://stirlingsir.netii.net/Sunlight%20Ranch%20Saddle_eBrochure.pdf
Matt McDonald and Mark Arnold, Stirling Sotheby’s Global Real Estate Experts, are representing the property.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said that the large open acreage ranch and accompanying equestrian complex, listed for sale at $11.9 million, will likely attract interest from US and international buyers.
The 790-acre Sunlight Ranch is a riding, hunting, fishing and outdoor sportsman’s paradise, boasting abundant fish, game and wildlife in their natural habitat. The property features a 32-acre equestrian facility that includes a main show barn with 25 stalls, show rings, polo club barns, polo fields and a clubhouse.
“The Sunlight Saddle and Polo Club is presently the “home-base” training facility for renowned international professionals, Olympians, professional equestrian teams, and experts in all riding sports including western riding, show jumping, dressage and polo,” Soderstrom said.
The ranch includes more than 12 miles of scenic bridle trails winding throughout the property. The property also fronts the cross-state St. Lucie-Okeechobee-Fort Meyers canal, providing easy access to Florida’s intracoastal waterway, the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
“The diverse current lifestyle usage opportunities and the long-term development potential of the 20-acre deed restricted home sites are enormous, and we expect the list of potential buyers will include some of the most recognizable names in international business, commerce, finance, entertainment and equestrian sports,” Soderstrom said.
To view a video produced by Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty go to http://www.wellcomemat.com/stirlingsir/E0DEB09771.html and to see an eBrochure, http://stirlingsir.netii.net/Sunlight%20Ranch%20Saddle_eBrochure.pdf
Matt McDonald and Mark Arnold, Stirling Sotheby’s Global Real Estate Experts, are representing the property.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Emerson International, Hanover Capital Partners acquire development site for 66 new homes on Avalon Road in Winter Garden
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. --- Emerson International in Altamonte Springs and Hanover Capital Partners in Orlando, recently acquired a community development site approved for 66 homes on Avalon Road in the Winter Garden area.
Eric Emerson, vice president and general manager of Emerson International, said the Emerson-Hanover Partnership plans to start development of the custom home community of Avalon Reserve immediately.
Emerson said new homes at Avalon Reserve will range in size from 2,300 to 4,700 square feet of living space priced from the $250s.. Home builders at Avalon Reserve will be announced in a few weeks, Emerson added.
Emerson International which has developed luxury communities and Class A office buildings in Orlando, Longwood and Altamonte Springs, is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Emerson Group, the global corporation that is one of the largest privately-owned property development companies.
Hanover Capital Partners is a private, family real estate development and investment company headed by longtime Orlando home builder Bill Orosz.
Eric Emerson, vice president and general manager of Emerson International, said the Emerson-Hanover Partnership plans to start development of the custom home community of Avalon Reserve immediately.
Emerson said new homes at Avalon Reserve will range in size from 2,300 to 4,700 square feet of living space priced from the $250s.. Home builders at Avalon Reserve will be announced in a few weeks, Emerson added.
Emerson International which has developed luxury communities and Class A office buildings in Orlando, Longwood and Altamonte Springs, is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Emerson Group, the global corporation that is one of the largest privately-owned property development companies.
Hanover Capital Partners is a private, family real estate development and investment company headed by longtime Orlando home builder Bill Orosz.
Cypress Reserve Villas in Kissimmee breaks ground on newest phase, first building already sold out
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Cypress Reserve Villas, the gated luxury resort community on Florida Boulevard in Kissimmee, recently hosted a groundbreaking ceremony event to start a new phase of construction and has already sold out its first four luxury villas.
Charles O’Sullivan, division president for ICI Homes in the Orlando area, which is developing Cypress Reserve Villas, said the three bedroom villa homes underway at Cypress Reserve Villas range in size from 1,700 square feet of living space to 1,830 square feet priced from the $180s.
New villa homes at Cypress Reserve feature two car garages, tile roofs, brick paver driveways, great rooms and kitchens with crown molding and 42 inch cabinets.
About ICI Homes
ICI Homes is ranked by Builder magazine as one of the top 100 homebuilders in the nation. The 32+-year-old firm builds new homes and resort facilities in the Volusia-Flagler region as well as in Jacksonville, Orlando, Melbourne and Tampa.
Charles O’Sullivan, division president for ICI Homes in the Orlando area, which is developing Cypress Reserve Villas, said the three bedroom villa homes underway at Cypress Reserve Villas range in size from 1,700 square feet of living space to 1,830 square feet priced from the $180s.
New villa homes at Cypress Reserve feature two car garages, tile roofs, brick paver driveways, great rooms and kitchens with crown molding and 42 inch cabinets.
About ICI Homes
ICI Homes is ranked by Builder magazine as one of the top 100 homebuilders in the nation. The 32+-year-old firm builds new homes and resort facilities in the Volusia-Flagler region as well as in Jacksonville, Orlando, Melbourne and Tampa.
Park Square Homes opens sales of single family, villa homes at Summerbrooke in Mount Dora
ORLANDO, Fla. – Park Square Homes is selling new single family homes priced from the $150s and villa homes priced from the $120s at Summerbrooke, located off U.S. 441 near SR 46 in Mount Dora.
Vishaal Gupta, president and chief operating officer at Park Square Homes, said new three, four and five bedroom single family homes at Summerbrooke range in size from 1,820 square feet of living space to 3,100 square feet.
Two and three bedroom villa homes at Summerbrooke range in size from 1,380 square feet of space.
Gupta said Park Square Homes has 23 villa homes available and 60 single family homes.
Visit www.parksquarehomes.com
About Park Square Homes
Park Square Homes is one of Central Florida’s premier production and vacation homebuilders. Founded in Orlando in 1984, the company has constructed thousands of homes in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. Park Square Homes is ranked as one of the largest homebuilders in Central Florida and is considered a pioneer and innovator in Florida’s resort home market.
Vishaal Gupta, president and chief operating officer at Park Square Homes, said new three, four and five bedroom single family homes at Summerbrooke range in size from 1,820 square feet of living space to 3,100 square feet.
Two and three bedroom villa homes at Summerbrooke range in size from 1,380 square feet of space.
Gupta said Park Square Homes has 23 villa homes available and 60 single family homes.
Visit www.parksquarehomes.com
About Park Square Homes
Park Square Homes is one of Central Florida’s premier production and vacation homebuilders. Founded in Orlando in 1984, the company has constructed thousands of homes in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. Park Square Homes is ranked as one of the largest homebuilders in Central Florida and is considered a pioneer and innovator in Florida’s resort home market.
NAI Realvest Negotiates New Long Term Expansion Lease Agreement with Beall’s at Kissimmee Shopping Center
ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest in Maitland recently negotiated a new expansion lease agreement with Beall’s Outlet store for 20,000 square feet of retail space at Kissimmee Shopping Center, located off U.S. 192 at 2557 Old Vineland Road in Kissimmee.
NAI Realvest managing partner Paul P. Partyka, negotiated the lease expansion agreement representing the landlord KVOS, LLC of Herndon, Va.
“Beall's is expanding and relocating within the Kissimmee Shopping Center. They have had three years of consecutive growth in the center,” Partyka said. “Combined with the lease extensions for Nike and Dollar Tree, this center has a lot of retail momentum.”
Sugar Oak Management of Herndon, Va., owns the center.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.nairealvest.com.
NAI Realvest managing partner Paul P. Partyka, negotiated the lease expansion agreement representing the landlord KVOS, LLC of Herndon, Va.
“Beall's is expanding and relocating within the Kissimmee Shopping Center. They have had three years of consecutive growth in the center,” Partyka said. “Combined with the lease extensions for Nike and Dollar Tree, this center has a lot of retail momentum.”
Sugar Oak Management of Herndon, Va., owns the center.
About NAI Realvest
NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.nairealvest.com.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Integrity Home Loan of Central Florida Names Three New Loan Officers
LAKE MARY, Fla. --- Integrity Home Loan of Central Florida recently appointed three new loan officers.
Matt Malloy, president of Integrity Home Loan of Central Florida, said Reed Laney, Kathy Desclefs and Robert Lowrie have been named to the posts.
Laney a Mortgage Loan Originator for the Lake Mary-Heathrow branch, has more than 22 years of experience in the industry.
Desclefs who has been named Senior Loan Originator has two years of experience in the industry and is licensed in all of the states where Integrity does business. She is working out of the firm’s Jacksonville office.
Lowrie, named Mortgage Loan Specialist in Integrity’s Tampa office has 18 years of experience and is a long-time member of the National Mortgage Brokers Association.
Matt Malloy, president of Integrity Home Loan of Central Florida, said Reed Laney, Kathy Desclefs and Robert Lowrie have been named to the posts.
Laney a Mortgage Loan Originator for the Lake Mary-Heathrow branch, has more than 22 years of experience in the industry.
Desclefs who has been named Senior Loan Originator has two years of experience in the industry and is licensed in all of the states where Integrity does business. She is working out of the firm’s Jacksonville office.
Lowrie, named Mortgage Loan Specialist in Integrity’s Tampa office has 18 years of experience and is a long-time member of the National Mortgage Brokers Association.
First Green Bank Eyeing Banking Locations in Downtown Orlando, Winter Park
MOUNT DORA, Fla. – First Green Bank, the Mount Dora-based community bank which was recently named one of the greenest banks in America by two major U.S. banking associations, is looking for a branch bank location in downtown Orlando.
Kenneth LaRoe, chairman and chief executive officer of First Green Bank, said he expects to firm up a site to open a branch location in downtown Orlando by the end of this year.
LaRoe said locations in Winter Park are being considered for another branch to follow the downtown opening.
First Green Bank also has branch offices in Clermont and recently opened Ormond Beach.
Kenneth LaRoe, chairman and chief executive officer of First Green Bank, said he expects to firm up a site to open a branch location in downtown Orlando by the end of this year.
LaRoe said locations in Winter Park are being considered for another branch to follow the downtown opening.
First Green Bank also has branch offices in Clermont and recently opened Ormond Beach.
Park Square Homes Names Vishaal Gupta President and Chief Operating Officer
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Park Square Homes, which builds new single family and town homes priced from the mid-$100s in seven Orlando area residential and resort communities, has appointed Vishaal Gupta president and chief operating officer.
Suresh Gupta, chief executive officer at Park Square Homes said Vishaal Gupta earned his B.S. Degree from Emory University in Atlanta and a Masters Degree in real estate from Columbia University in New York City before joining Park Square Homes six years ago.
Vishaal Gupta said Park Square Homes plans to open three new communities this year in the East Orlando, Kissimmee and Winter Garden areas.
Gupta said he plans to focus on a major study of post-recession homebuyer preferences and unveiling new home designs.
Suresh Gupta, chief executive officer at Park Square Homes said Vishaal Gupta earned his B.S. Degree from Emory University in Atlanta and a Masters Degree in real estate from Columbia University in New York City before joining Park Square Homes six years ago.
Vishaal Gupta said Park Square Homes plans to open three new communities this year in the East Orlando, Kissimmee and Winter Garden areas.
Gupta said he plans to focus on a major study of post-recession homebuyer preferences and unveiling new home designs.
Five More SeaGate Spec Homes are Under Construction in Palm Coast and Another Available for Quick Move-In
PALM COAST – With a four-bedroom, two-bath spec home recently completed in Palm Coast, crews for SeaGate Homes now are focusing their craftsmanship on five more new Flagler County homes.
The 2,446 square foot, four-bedroom Worthington model at 29 Bighorn Drive features 42” cabinets with crown molding, granite countertops and stainless-steel kitchen appliances, as well as ceramic tile in all areas except the bedrooms, according to Michael Sawdai, vice president of operations for the family-owned company.
“The Worthington is one of our most popular floor plans; and this one is available for $179,900,” Sawdai said.
Two other Worthington plans – also priced at $179,900 – are expected to be completed later this month at 10 Sergeant Court and 12 Langdon Drive, and a three-car garage Palm model is taking shape at 37 Frenora Lane.
Sawdai said the company also is finishing up a 1,876-square-foot Brentwood and a 2,056-square-foot Sabal II model in Grand Haven this month. Those homes, at 5 Marlin Drive and 9 Marlin Drive, are priced at $253,900 and $258,900, respectively.
For more information, please call 386-445-1616 or visit www.SeaGateHomes.com.
About SeaGate Homes:
SeaGate Homes, Flagler County’s largest homebuilder, is an 18-year-old, family-owned company with headquarters in Palm Coast. SeaGate builds quality homes at communities in St. Augustine, Palm Coast, Daytona Beach and Edgewater, as well as through their On-Your-Lot program in Volusia, Flagler and St. Johns counties. Prices range from the $100s to the $400s.
The 2,446 square foot, four-bedroom Worthington model at 29 Bighorn Drive features 42” cabinets with crown molding, granite countertops and stainless-steel kitchen appliances, as well as ceramic tile in all areas except the bedrooms, according to Michael Sawdai, vice president of operations for the family-owned company.
“The Worthington is one of our most popular floor plans; and this one is available for $179,900,” Sawdai said.
Two other Worthington plans – also priced at $179,900 – are expected to be completed later this month at 10 Sergeant Court and 12 Langdon Drive, and a three-car garage Palm model is taking shape at 37 Frenora Lane.
Sawdai said the company also is finishing up a 1,876-square-foot Brentwood and a 2,056-square-foot Sabal II model in Grand Haven this month. Those homes, at 5 Marlin Drive and 9 Marlin Drive, are priced at $253,900 and $258,900, respectively.
For more information, please call 386-445-1616 or visit www.SeaGateHomes.com.
About SeaGate Homes:
SeaGate Homes, Flagler County’s largest homebuilder, is an 18-year-old, family-owned company with headquarters in Palm Coast. SeaGate builds quality homes at communities in St. Augustine, Palm Coast, Daytona Beach and Edgewater, as well as through their On-Your-Lot program in Volusia, Flagler and St. Johns counties. Prices range from the $100s to the $400s.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
VOLUSIA PERSONAL-INJURY LAWER TALKS TO STUDENTS ON “LAW DAY”
PORT ORANGE – Attorney Allan L. Ziffra recently spent a morning talking shop with a group of students about everything from the importance of bicycle safety to the consequences of lying.
Ziffra – president of the Port Orange-based law firm of Rue & Ziffra – observed National Law Day on May 2 by addressing the 4th grade students at Sugar Mill Elementary School in Port Orange.
A nationally-celebrated day, Law Day first was observed in 1958 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed it to strengthen the United States’ legal heritage of liberty, justice, and equality.
During his Wednesday morning talk, Ziffra said he explained to the students about the legal profession, the different fields of law, and the basic concept or definition of legal terminology such as depositions and mediation.
“We wanted to talk to the students about the law itself and what laws mean in our country,” Ziffra said. “We expected questions, but were surprised with the thoughtfulness of their queries and their delightful follow-up ‘Thank You’ letters.”
The students’ introspective letters ranged from words of appreciation of Ziffra’s information: “I really didn’t want to be a lawyer, but now I do because I have lots of information about it,” and “Lying is not the solution,” to compliments on his material: “I really enjoyed all your crazy stories.”
About Rue & Ziffra:
Founded by John D. Rue and Allan L. Ziffra, the personal-injury law firm of Rue & Ziffra has served the Central Florida community for 30 years. The firm’s commitment to its profession and its clients has earned it a reputation as one of the top personal-injury law firms in Central Florida. Known for handling everything from automobile and motorcycle accidents to medical malpractice, wrongful death, and social security and disability cases, Rue & Ziffra has recovered millions of dollars for injured clients and their families. With a staff of nine attorneys, the firm maintains offices in Port Orange, DeLand and Palm Coast. For more information, visit www.rueziffra.com.
Ziffra – president of the Port Orange-based law firm of Rue & Ziffra – observed National Law Day on May 2 by addressing the 4th grade students at Sugar Mill Elementary School in Port Orange.
A nationally-celebrated day, Law Day first was observed in 1958 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed it to strengthen the United States’ legal heritage of liberty, justice, and equality.
During his Wednesday morning talk, Ziffra said he explained to the students about the legal profession, the different fields of law, and the basic concept or definition of legal terminology such as depositions and mediation.
“We wanted to talk to the students about the law itself and what laws mean in our country,” Ziffra said. “We expected questions, but were surprised with the thoughtfulness of their queries and their delightful follow-up ‘Thank You’ letters.”
The students’ introspective letters ranged from words of appreciation of Ziffra’s information: “I really didn’t want to be a lawyer, but now I do because I have lots of information about it,” and “Lying is not the solution,” to compliments on his material: “I really enjoyed all your crazy stories.”
About Rue & Ziffra:
Founded by John D. Rue and Allan L. Ziffra, the personal-injury law firm of Rue & Ziffra has served the Central Florida community for 30 years. The firm’s commitment to its profession and its clients has earned it a reputation as one of the top personal-injury law firms in Central Florida. Known for handling everything from automobile and motorcycle accidents to medical malpractice, wrongful death, and social security and disability cases, Rue & Ziffra has recovered millions of dollars for injured clients and their families. With a staff of nine attorneys, the firm maintains offices in Port Orange, DeLand and Palm Coast. For more information, visit www.rueziffra.com.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Villages of Royal Palm in Port Orange starts construction of two award winning move-in-ready luxury homes
PORT ORANGE, Fla. --- The Villages of Royal Palm in Port Orange has started construction of two award winning, move-in-ready luxury homes that will open later this summer.
Winston Schwartz, president of the South Daytona firm Winston-James Development, Inc., which is developing The Villages of Royal Palm, said new construction includes two of the community’s award wining Windsor model homes.
The new homes feature four bedrooms and two baths in 2,226 square feet of living space with a two car garage priced from $275,000.
The active adult Villages of Royal Palm builds single family luxury and villa homes priced from the low $100s.
Winston Schwartz, president of the South Daytona firm Winston-James Development, Inc., which is developing The Villages of Royal Palm, said new construction includes two of the community’s award wining Windsor model homes.
The new homes feature four bedrooms and two baths in 2,226 square feet of living space with a two car garage priced from $275,000.
The active adult Villages of Royal Palm builds single family luxury and villa homes priced from the low $100s.
ICI Homes, Plantation Bay to Host USGA Women's Open Championship Qualifying Tournament on May 15
ORMOND BEACH, Fla. --- Plantation Bay in Ormond Beach will host a USGA Women's Open Championship Qualifying Tournament on Tuesday, May 15.
Maria Tuohy, general manager of Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club, said the tournament is scheduled on the North and South golf courses of Club de Bonmont at Plantation Bay.
Qualifiers in the 36-hole stroke play tournament will earn a spot at the Women's Open Championship to be played July 5-8 at Black Wolf Run in Kohler, Wis.
Plantation Bay Golf Professional Ulrika Smith has entered the tournament and hopes to qualify for the US Open for 2012.
Tuohy said tee times and pairings listings for the tournament will be available in the Planatation Bay golf shops prior to play.
Spectators are encouraged to come watch the tournament, Tuohy said, but spectator golf carts will not be permitted.
The 600 acre Plantation Bay community in Ormond Beach offers 45 holes of championship golf; more holes than any other community in the area. Townhomes are priced from $169,000 and new single family custom homes range from low $200s to more than $1 million.
About ICI Homes
ICI Homes is ranked by Builder magazine as one of the top 100 homebuilders in the nation. The 32+-year-old firm builds new homes and resort facilities in the Volusia-Flagler region as well as in Jacksonville, Orlando, Melbourne and Tampa.
Maria Tuohy, general manager of Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club, said the tournament is scheduled on the North and South golf courses of Club de Bonmont at Plantation Bay.
Qualifiers in the 36-hole stroke play tournament will earn a spot at the Women's Open Championship to be played July 5-8 at Black Wolf Run in Kohler, Wis.
Plantation Bay Golf Professional Ulrika Smith has entered the tournament and hopes to qualify for the US Open for 2012.
Tuohy said tee times and pairings listings for the tournament will be available in the Planatation Bay golf shops prior to play.
Spectators are encouraged to come watch the tournament, Tuohy said, but spectator golf carts will not be permitted.
The 600 acre Plantation Bay community in Ormond Beach offers 45 holes of championship golf; more holes than any other community in the area. Townhomes are priced from $169,000 and new single family custom homes range from low $200s to more than $1 million.
About ICI Homes
ICI Homes is ranked by Builder magazine as one of the top 100 homebuilders in the nation. The 32+-year-old firm builds new homes and resort facilities in the Volusia-Flagler region as well as in Jacksonville, Orlando, Melbourne and Tampa.
Ryland Homes Sets New Benchmark for Sustainable Home Building: Tankless Hot Water Heaters Now Standard
ATLANTA, Ga. --- Ryland Homes in the Atlanta division is setting a benchmark for sustainable new construction energy efficient natural gas tankless water heaters.
Bill Carter, vice president of sales and marketing at Ryland Homes in the Atlanta division, said Ryland is equipping all new homes in Atlanta neighborhoods where natural gas is available with the energy-efficient Rinnai® tankless hot water heaters.
“Next to air conditioning and heating, traditional hot water heaters represent the single largest energy cost in a home,” Carter said. “A traditional tank water heater uses energy all day long to keep water hot, whether hot water is needed or not. That’s a total waste of energy resources,” Carter added.
“Rinnai’s Tankless Natural Gas Hot Water Heaters substantially reduce the amount of energy a home requires and provides an endless flow of hot water.” Carter explained.
Carter said Ryland Homes may be the first national home builder in Atlanta to announce it will provide tankless water heaters as standard.
“The installation of standard Rinnai® Tankless Natural Gas Hot Water Heaters helps bring Atlanta homebuilding into the 21st Century and Ryland is proud to lead the way,” Carter said.
Carter said tankless water heaters are just one of 15 features included in Ryland’s HouseWorks® program designed to preserve the environment, conserve energy and provide more comfort.
“It’s abundantly clear that home buyers are demanding ways to reduce energy costs and home builders are searching for ways to make new homes more sustainable,” Carter said. “I think Ryland’s HouseWorks® program puts us in the forefront of that movement and we’re all very proud of it,” he said.
For more information, visit www.ryland.com
Bill Carter, vice president of sales and marketing at Ryland Homes in the Atlanta division, said Ryland is equipping all new homes in Atlanta neighborhoods where natural gas is available with the energy-efficient Rinnai® tankless hot water heaters.
“Next to air conditioning and heating, traditional hot water heaters represent the single largest energy cost in a home,” Carter said. “A traditional tank water heater uses energy all day long to keep water hot, whether hot water is needed or not. That’s a total waste of energy resources,” Carter added.
“Rinnai’s Tankless Natural Gas Hot Water Heaters substantially reduce the amount of energy a home requires and provides an endless flow of hot water.” Carter explained.
Carter said Ryland Homes may be the first national home builder in Atlanta to announce it will provide tankless water heaters as standard.
“The installation of standard Rinnai® Tankless Natural Gas Hot Water Heaters helps bring Atlanta homebuilding into the 21st Century and Ryland is proud to lead the way,” Carter said.
Carter said tankless water heaters are just one of 15 features included in Ryland’s HouseWorks® program designed to preserve the environment, conserve energy and provide more comfort.
“It’s abundantly clear that home buyers are demanding ways to reduce energy costs and home builders are searching for ways to make new homes more sustainable,” Carter said. “I think Ryland’s HouseWorks® program puts us in the forefront of that movement and we’re all very proud of it,” he said.
For more information, visit www.ryland.com
Geocove, Inc., Lee County, Florida release LeeEvac app for iOS, Android-based phones or devices
ORLANDO Fla. --- Geocove, Inc., the Orlando firm that specializes in development of sophisticated GIS systems for disaster response teams and government agencies, is taking disaster evacuation preparedness to a whole new level.
Geocove partnered with Lee County, Florida located on the Gulf of Mexico in the state’s Southwest region, to develop a sophisticated GIS-based disaster management system that now includes LeeEvac, a mobile device app available free for iOS and android-based phones or devices.
Karyn Tareen, president and chief executive officer at Geocove, Inc., said the LeeEvac app will provide real-time disaster information along with official disaster evacuation routes and such additional information as shelters for evacuating families.
“The LeeEvac app represents another technically advanced GIS tool for the residents and visitors of Lee County,” Tareen said. “In addition to providing evacuation information that is accessible and relatable at all times to residents and visitors, notifications will instantly warn affected parties in the event of a disaster,” she said.
Situated between the Gulf of Mexico and the Everglades, Lee County is particularly prone to hurricane damage.
With more than 600,000 residents, including the cities of Ft. Myers and Cape Coral, wealthy enclaves such as Captiva Island, Sanibel Island, Bonita Springs and Boca Grande, Lee County represents a particularly appropriate disaster preparedness model, Tareen said.
Lee County also uses Geocove’s popular ARM360 computerized GIS mapping and inventorying program, which helps emergency management agencies locate, identify and quantify damages caused by storms and natural disasters quickly and efficiently. ARM360 and LeeEvac are based on the Esri platform, the world’s leading GIS software provider.
Geocove is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About Geocove
Geocove, Inc. provides scalable assessment solutions built using the power of GIS across a multitude of industries. The Geocove team has extensive experience in providing assessment, reporting and mapping tools for emergency management, building officials, public health and other government agencies as well as utilities and other private industries. Geocove, Inc., a privately held corporation located in central Florida, is an authorized partner of Esri, the world’s leading GIS software provider. Please visit www.geocove.com or www.facebook.com/geocove.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Geocove partnered with Lee County, Florida located on the Gulf of Mexico in the state’s Southwest region, to develop a sophisticated GIS-based disaster management system that now includes LeeEvac, a mobile device app available free for iOS and android-based phones or devices.
Karyn Tareen, president and chief executive officer at Geocove, Inc., said the LeeEvac app will provide real-time disaster information along with official disaster evacuation routes and such additional information as shelters for evacuating families.
“The LeeEvac app represents another technically advanced GIS tool for the residents and visitors of Lee County,” Tareen said. “In addition to providing evacuation information that is accessible and relatable at all times to residents and visitors, notifications will instantly warn affected parties in the event of a disaster,” she said.
Situated between the Gulf of Mexico and the Everglades, Lee County is particularly prone to hurricane damage.
With more than 600,000 residents, including the cities of Ft. Myers and Cape Coral, wealthy enclaves such as Captiva Island, Sanibel Island, Bonita Springs and Boca Grande, Lee County represents a particularly appropriate disaster preparedness model, Tareen said.
Lee County also uses Geocove’s popular ARM360 computerized GIS mapping and inventorying program, which helps emergency management agencies locate, identify and quantify damages caused by storms and natural disasters quickly and efficiently. ARM360 and LeeEvac are based on the Esri platform, the world’s leading GIS software provider.
Geocove is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program in the Central Florida Research Park in East Orange County.
About Geocove
Geocove, Inc. provides scalable assessment solutions built using the power of GIS across a multitude of industries. The Geocove team has extensive experience in providing assessment, reporting and mapping tools for emergency management, building officials, public health and other government agencies as well as utilities and other private industries. Geocove, Inc., a privately held corporation located in central Florida, is an authorized partner of Esri, the world’s leading GIS software provider. Please visit www.geocove.com or www.facebook.com/geocove.
About the UCF Business Incubation Program
Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 200 emerging companies (including more than 134 current clients) create over $363 million in annual total economic output and more than 3,120 new jobs (taking direct and indirect and induced impact into account) with an average salary of $59,000. With ten facilities across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development among the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Apopka, the City of Winter Springs, the City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, Volusia County and the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. For more information about the Program and its clients and graduates, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu and UCFBIP on Facebook, on www.facebook.com/ucf4bip.
Cuhaci & Peterson Earns Contract to Design Remodeling of Two Food Lion Stores in North Carolina
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Cuhaci & Peterson Architects Engineers Planners LLC, based in Orlando’s Baldwin Park, was recently awarded a contract to design the remodeling of two Food Lion Stores in North Carolina.
Jed Downs, president of Cuhaci & Peterson, said the 38,000 square foot Food Lion Stores are located in the cities of Nashville near Raleigh and Roanoke Rapids in north central N.C. near the Virginia state line.
Jed Downs, president of Cuhaci & Peterson, said the 38,000 square foot Food Lion Stores are located in the cities of Nashville near Raleigh and Roanoke Rapids in north central N.C. near the Virginia state line.
LENNAR TO HOST OPENING TO SHOWCASE STOCKTON GRANDE MODEL HOME AT RED TAIL IN SORRENTO JUNE 2
ORLANDO, Fla. – Lennar’s Central Florida Division will host a grand opening June 2 to showcase Lennar’s first model home at Red Tail Golf Club, the region’s premier private golf club community on S.R. 46-A, just west of Heathrow in East Lake County.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division said the event, which runs from 2 to 5 p.m. at Lennar’s new model home at Red Tail, will feature horse and carriage rides throughout the community.
Stockton Grande model home at Red Tail offers four bedrooms, a den in 3,091 square feet of living space with a three-car garage, Metheny said.
Lennar is building four bedroom luxury homes at Red Tail with three and four baths that range in size from 2,500 square feet of living space to 4,521 square feet with three and four-car garages.
Lennar’s Grande Estate homes at Red Tail will offer tile roofs, brick paver driveways, maple kitchen cabinets, GE stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, 18" ceramic tile floors in all wet areas, upgraded landscaping and bronze seamless gutters.
Red Tail Golf Club features Har-Tru tennis courts, state-of-the-art fitness center with spa service, resort-style swimming pool, a Dave Harman-designed 7,152-yard, par 72 course winding through seasoned live oaks and ponds. Club facilities include a 10-acre practice course, two practice putting greens and PGA professionals on staff.
The 15,000 square foot clubhouse boasts an exceptional restaurant, expansive verandah and Hawk’s Nest Bar, men’s and women’s lounges and locker room facilities.
Lennar’s Welcome Home Center at Red Tail is located at 25429 Hampton Circle, Sorrento, FL 32776. For more information, visit www.lennar.com.
Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division said the event, which runs from 2 to 5 p.m. at Lennar’s new model home at Red Tail, will feature horse and carriage rides throughout the community.
Stockton Grande model home at Red Tail offers four bedrooms, a den in 3,091 square feet of living space with a three-car garage, Metheny said.
Lennar is building four bedroom luxury homes at Red Tail with three and four baths that range in size from 2,500 square feet of living space to 4,521 square feet with three and four-car garages.
Lennar’s Grande Estate homes at Red Tail will offer tile roofs, brick paver driveways, maple kitchen cabinets, GE stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, 18" ceramic tile floors in all wet areas, upgraded landscaping and bronze seamless gutters.
Red Tail Golf Club features Har-Tru tennis courts, state-of-the-art fitness center with spa service, resort-style swimming pool, a Dave Harman-designed 7,152-yard, par 72 course winding through seasoned live oaks and ponds. Club facilities include a 10-acre practice course, two practice putting greens and PGA professionals on staff.
The 15,000 square foot clubhouse boasts an exceptional restaurant, expansive verandah and Hawk’s Nest Bar, men’s and women’s lounges and locker room facilities.
Lennar’s Welcome Home Center at Red Tail is located at 25429 Hampton Circle, Sorrento, FL 32776. For more information, visit www.lennar.com.
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty Named Exclusive Broker for Mount Dora Luxury Home on Lake Ola
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty has been named exclusive sales and marketing agents for a $549,000 lakefront luxury home at 7100 Lake Ola Drive in Mount Dora.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Home Specialist Judy Werth is representing the property, which includes a five bedroom, three-bath home with a huge bonus room with flex space for pool table or media room.
Werth said the two story luxury home features expansive water views from most rooms, 30-foot ceilings and a fireplace in the family room, screened patio on the ground floor and a screened balcony on the top overlooking Lake Ola.
The 440-acre ski lake is accessed by a backyard walkway leading to a boat dock.
Lake Ola is known for being one of the cleanest lakes in the region and is for the exclusive use of the residents, said Werth.
“It’s a great neighborhood and is just minutes from downtown Mount Dora,” she said.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner of Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, said International Luxury Home Specialist Judy Werth is representing the property, which includes a five bedroom, three-bath home with a huge bonus room with flex space for pool table or media room.
Werth said the two story luxury home features expansive water views from most rooms, 30-foot ceilings and a fireplace in the family room, screened patio on the ground floor and a screened balcony on the top overlooking Lake Ola.
The 440-acre ski lake is accessed by a backyard walkway leading to a boat dock.
Lake Ola is known for being one of the cleanest lakes in the region and is for the exclusive use of the residents, said Werth.
“It’s a great neighborhood and is just minutes from downtown Mount Dora,” she said.
About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty:
Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, new home communities, commercial and investment properties, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates two performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.
Cuhaci & Peterson Architects Completes Design Work for Price Choppers Supermarket in Massachusetts
ORLANDO, Fla. --- Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, based in Orlando’s Baldwin Park recently completed design work for an 80,000 square foot Price Choppers supermarket in Massachusetts.
Lonnie Peterson, chairman of Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, said the huge food store facility is under construction in Gardner, Mass.
Lonnie Peterson, chairman of Cuhaci & Peterson Architects, said the huge food store facility is under construction in Gardner, Mass.
MERITAGE HOMES IS RECOGNIZED WITH A 2012 ENERGY STAR® LEADERSHIP IN HOUSING AWARD
Meritage Homes earns award for building new homes that protect the environment through energy efficiency
ORLANDO, Fla – Meritage Homes was recently recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with a 2012 ENERGY STAR Leadership in Housing Award. This award recognizes the important contribution Meritage Homes has made to energy-efficient construction and environmental protection by building more than 789 ENERGY STAR certified homes last year. Collectively, these homes will save our customers approximately $352,683 on utility bills each year.
The environmental benefits of these ENERGY STAR certified homes are equal to the equivalent of:
• Eliminating the emissions from 387 vehicles;
• Saving 2,338,596 lbs of coal;
• Planting 639 acres of trees; or
• Saving the environment 4,586,457 pounds of CO2 per year.
To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 20% more efficient than standard new homes built today.
ENERGY STAR certified homes offer homebuyers all the features they want in a new home, plus energy-saving features like effective insulation systems, high performance windows, tight construction and ducts, properly-sized and installed efficient heating and cooling equipment, efficient products, and third-party verification of energy performance.
“ENERGY STAR builder partners offer new homes that are designed and built to standards well above most others on the market today” said Jonathan Passe, Director of EPA’s ENERGY STAR Residential Branch. “Because ENERGY STAR certified homes undergo rigorous independent inspections and testing, homebuyers who choose ENERGY STAR can be confident that their new home will offer real energy efficiency, comfort, durability, and value for years to come.”
Last year alone, with the help of ENERGY STAR and partners, Americans saved nearly $400 million on their utility bills and avoided greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of more than 510,000 vehicles. More than 1.3 million ENERGY STAR homes have been built in the United States since the program first began labeling homes in 1995.
About Meritage Homes
Meritage Homes is listed on the NYSE under the symbol MTH. Visit http://investors.meritagehomes.com
About ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 as a voluntary market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through increased energy efficiency. Today, ENERGY STAR offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions to save energy, money and help protect the environment for future generations. More than 127,000 new homes were constructed to meet ENERGY STAR guidelines in 2011, by partners committed to improving the energy efficiency of products, homes, buildings and businesses. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov or call toll-free 1-888-STAR-YES (1-888-782-7937).
ORLANDO, Fla – Meritage Homes was recently recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with a 2012 ENERGY STAR Leadership in Housing Award. This award recognizes the important contribution Meritage Homes has made to energy-efficient construction and environmental protection by building more than 789 ENERGY STAR certified homes last year. Collectively, these homes will save our customers approximately $352,683 on utility bills each year.
The environmental benefits of these ENERGY STAR certified homes are equal to the equivalent of:
• Eliminating the emissions from 387 vehicles;
• Saving 2,338,596 lbs of coal;
• Planting 639 acres of trees; or
• Saving the environment 4,586,457 pounds of CO2 per year.
To earn the ENERGY STAR, a home must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These homes are at least 20% more efficient than standard new homes built today.
ENERGY STAR certified homes offer homebuyers all the features they want in a new home, plus energy-saving features like effective insulation systems, high performance windows, tight construction and ducts, properly-sized and installed efficient heating and cooling equipment, efficient products, and third-party verification of energy performance.
“ENERGY STAR builder partners offer new homes that are designed and built to standards well above most others on the market today” said Jonathan Passe, Director of EPA’s ENERGY STAR Residential Branch. “Because ENERGY STAR certified homes undergo rigorous independent inspections and testing, homebuyers who choose ENERGY STAR can be confident that their new home will offer real energy efficiency, comfort, durability, and value for years to come.”
Last year alone, with the help of ENERGY STAR and partners, Americans saved nearly $400 million on their utility bills and avoided greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of more than 510,000 vehicles. More than 1.3 million ENERGY STAR homes have been built in the United States since the program first began labeling homes in 1995.
About Meritage Homes
Meritage Homes is listed on the NYSE under the symbol MTH. Visit http://investors.meritagehomes.com
About ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 as a voluntary market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through increased energy efficiency. Today, ENERGY STAR offers businesses and consumers energy-efficient solutions to save energy, money and help protect the environment for future generations. More than 127,000 new homes were constructed to meet ENERGY STAR guidelines in 2011, by partners committed to improving the energy efficiency of products, homes, buildings and businesses. For more information about ENERGY STAR, visit www.energystar.gov or call toll-free 1-888-STAR-YES (1-888-782-7937).
NAI Realvest Negotiates New Industrial Lease of 4,050 Square Feet in Orlando
MAITLAND, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new lease of 4,050 square feet of industrial space at 5612 Carder Road, Suite 1D in Orlando.
Tom R. Kelley, II CCIM, principal at NAI Realvest, represented the landlord, Freese Management of Oviedo in the transaction. S & S Machining, Inc. of Orlando is the tenant.
NAI Realvest is exclusive leasing agent for the 31,000 square foot building at 5612 Carder Rd. which is currently 92 percent leased
About NAI Realvest:
NAI Realvest, serving all of central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com
Tom R. Kelley, II CCIM, principal at NAI Realvest, represented the landlord, Freese Management of Oviedo in the transaction. S & S Machining, Inc. of Orlando is the tenant.
NAI Realvest is exclusive leasing agent for the 31,000 square foot building at 5612 Carder Rd. which is currently 92 percent leased
About NAI Realvest:
NAI Realvest, serving all of central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 350 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com
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