PENSACOLA IS NUMBER TWO OF TOP FIVE PLACES TO RETIRE...  

With 401(K)s taking a hit, Americans are in no rush to retire now.  But that doesn't mean they're not planning for their golden years.  A recent survey of real estate agents, conducted by a national real estate company, finds that many 50-somethings are buying their retirement homes now, well before they retire. 

Driving that trend: plummeting home prices and low interest rates.  "The areas hardest hit by the recession can be prime spots for second-home seekers," says Jim Gillespie, Coldwell Banker CEO. 

Here is the list of top five cities for young retirees (55 to 59).  The rankings are weighed in order based on recreation, weather, health resources, crime and cost of living (in all five towns, it's below the national average).

1. Helena, MT.  (pop. 28,726): This town has a local symphony and fine-art galleries.  Nature lovers can trek 1,000-plus miles of mountain and forest trails.  Median home price: $ 191,500.

2. Pensacola, FL. (pop. 54,283): The sun always shines on its white beaches, it's super-safe (the crime rate is well below the national average), and the American Association baseball team boosts hometown spirit. Median home price: $ 137,200.

3. Creve Coeur, MO. (pop. 16,933): Its 320-acre lake is a boating haven surrounded by picnic sites and an archery range.  And St. Louis is a half-hour drive away.  Median home price: $ 355,000.

4. Traverse City, MI. (pop. 14,339): The "cherry capital" is famous for its vineyards.  Plus, its health services are top-notch; the Munson Medical Center is consistently named one of the top 100 hospitals in the nation.  Median home price: $ 129,500.

5. Butte-Silver Bow, MT. (pop. 31,967): This area's 29 recreational facilities (golf courses, parks, pools) keep residents active.  And Butte will host the National Folk Festival again next summer.  Median home price: $ 108,500.

Source: USA WEEKEND July 24-26, 2009

TIME IS RUNNIG OUT...GET YOUR 2009 HOME BUYERS TAX CREDIT!!!

   - Tax credit is for 1st time home buyers or those who have not owned a home in the past 3 years,

   - Tax credit does not have to be repaid,

   - Tax credit is equal to 10% of homes value up to a maximum of $ 8,000,

   - Tax credit is available for homes closing before December 1, 2009,

   - Single taxpayers with incomes up to $ 75,000 and married couples with incomes up to $ 150,000 qualify,

   - As of July 1, 2009, the tax credit can be available at closing and may be used for some closing costs. 

Contact Mike at 850-255-5618 for more details.

There are exceptional opportunities in today’s market, but often timing is everything.  Many good homes are sold before you find out about them.   You can be competitive in the market by getting information on hottest new homes for sale in Escambia and Santa Rosa County with My Home Finder.  Pensacola, Cantonment and Pace homes for sale are my specialty, and I can keep you informed about any new listings that come available. 

If you own real estate that you are thinking of selling, I would be happy to provide you with a FREE Home Evaluation.

Let's get together and talk about your home buying and/or selling plans. Call me at the office (850-478-6363), on my cell phone (850-255-5618), or send an e-mail to mikedolezal@eraoldsouth.com and we'll set-up a time that is easy and convenient to meet with you.