It's 2010 - How's your "Bucket List" coming along?

Instead of jotting down my annual goals this year which I have done for the past 10 years, I decided to work on my "bucket list" (a.k.a. "100 Things to do before I die"). Whether it's buying your first home, traveling to Australia, parachuting out of a plane, or just getting on an airplane, at some point we realize life is flying by and I don't want to be on my death bed saying, "gee, I wish I had.....".

Hence, the beginning of my "bucket list". I always wanted to get more involved in our awesome community. However, the idea of getting up in front of a room full of people makes me lightheaded. In order to overcome this fear, I've become involved in the Bay County Association of Realtor's Leadership program. I even have to go through TOASTMASTERS, talk about being out of my comfort zone!

Another item on my "bucket list" may seem small to many, to me it was huge - complete a 5K. I figure if my husband Ron can complete the Gulf Coast Triathlon (swimming a mile, biking over 50 miles, then running a 1/2 marathon (and after brain surgery), surely I can finish a 5K. I am glad to announce I ran in and completed my first 5K on Sat., April 3, 2010. On to the next item on my list....

Why do I mention my "bucket list"? Because life does pass us by before we know it. So, if you have been thinking about buying that first home, move up home, or maybe downsize so you can spend more time with the grandkids or your loved ones, now is the time. WHY? Rates are low, there's a large amount of inventory to choose from, it's a great time to afford a "move-up" home or become a landlord.

Maybe your "bucket list" includes living on a tropical island? Hey, I can find that for you too!

Good luck with YOUR bucket list and here's to a fabulous, healthy, successful 2010!

Karen


Karen Branham, e-Pro, SRES, Broker Assoc., SFR
"Exceptional Service"
Coldwell Banker United, Realtors
(850) 832-8626 or visit me at www.KarenBranham.com

Got Your Home Exemption?

This post is a reminder for everyone regarding your Homestead Exemption.

What is the Homestead Exemption? A homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of the property that you use as your permanent residence by an amount up to $50,000. This represents a substantial savings on the taxes levied against your property by the various taxing authorities.

Who May File. Every person who has legal or equitable title to real property in Florida and who has recorded the title instrument in the public records of the county where application is made. The applicant must reside on the property as of January 1st and must in good faith, make it their permanent residence to be eligible. For example, if you were residing in your permanent residence on Jan. 1, 2009, then you are eligible for a 2009 homestead exemption.

When to File. Exemption applications must be made between January 1st and March 1st for the tax year eligible. For example, if you are living in your permanent home on January 1st, 2009 then you have until the close of business of March 1, 2009 to file your homestead exemption for that year. Failure to make application by March 1 of the tax year shall constitute a waiver of the exemption privilege for that year. Homestead exemption applications may be filed after March 1, but the exemption will be applied in the next tax year. For example, if you move into your permanent home on April 1, 2009 you may file for your 2010 exemption anytime from April 2, 2009 through March 1, 2010.

Where to File:
Bay County Florida Property Appraiser's Office
860 W. 11th St.
Panama City, FL 32401
Office: (850) 248-8401
Fax: (850) 248-8447
Hours: 8AM-5PM CST Monday-Friday

Beach Office
301 Richard Jackson Blvd.
Panama City Beach, FL. 32407
"Inside Panhandle Educators Federal Credit Union"
Branch Manager: Vern Mathis
Phone: 850-236-3234
Fax: 850-236-3236
Hours: 9:00 to 5:00 Monday through Friday

Only one signature is required for joint owners who are married with the same last name; however, all documentation listed below must be provided. All signatures are necessary if owners who occupy the home have different last names.

The Following Information Is Required.
1. Recorded Warranty Deed or last tax bill.
2. Florida Driver License reflecting current residential address: all joint owners who reside on the property need Florida Driver Licenses. (Valid in Florida Only licenses are NOT sufficient).
3. Florida Vehicle Registrations reflecting current residential address. All vehicles owned by the applicants must have resident Florida registrations. This also applies to military personnel. Leased vehicles and nonresident registrations NOT accepted.
4. Social Security Numbers. Social Security numbers are required for all owners listed on the deed.
5. Declaration of Domicile or Florida Voter Registration Card reflecting current residential address. If an owner does not have a car registered in their name, one of these documents will be required as proof of residency.

Renewal. The Property Appraisers Office will mail you a renewal card each year in January. Please read the instructions carefully and be sure to comply with deadlines.

For more info, please visit the Property Appraiser's site by clicking here.

From my family to yours, have a wonderful, safe holiday!

Karen Branham, e-Pro, SFR, SRES, Broker Associate
THE BRANHAM TEAM
"Exceptional Service"
Coldwell Banker United, Realtors
726 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32407
Telephone: 850-832-8626
Email: karen.branham@cbunited.com
Website: http://www.KarenBranham.com