Real Estate Market

A recent survey by Houselogic.com, the consumer website from the National Association of Realtors®, finds that jobs and the housing market will be two of the most important issues for voters in the 2012 election. Nearly one-third of respondents said housing will be the top issue on their mind when they head to the polls next November.

Respondents were asked “What issue area will have the greatest impact on your vote in 2012?” National security, healthcare, and energy/environment trailed housing and unemployment by wide margins:

• Jobs/unemployment – 54 percent
• Housing – 27 percent
• National security – 8 percent
• Healthcare – 4 percent
• Energy/Environment – 2 percent
• Other – 4 percent

With unemployment still high, it is easy to see why so many Americans are concerned about the job market. However, employment and the housing market are inextricably linked because economic growth and job creation cannot occur without a housing recovery.

Now take a look at how the Miami FL real estate market performed in November.

Miami FL Real Estate - Single Family Homes Sales November 2011

Miami FL Real Estate - Condo/Coop/Townhouse/Villa Sales Novemver 2011

Find out what your Miami FL home is worth.

Statistics furnished by the Miami Realtors Association.

The holiday season is  behind us and now that the excitement is behind us it is time to think aoubt your will and legacy.

Here are some tips to help get you started on a beneficiary review.

Your estate: for beneficiaries only
One of the most common mistakes people make is failing to update the beneficiary designations on financial contracts to coordinate with their will and other estate plan documents. Beneficiary designations supersede bequests made in a will. Your intentions for giving your estate may be at risk if your designations are not kept up to date.

Life insurance and financial services companies can distribute money only to the designated beneficiaries. Life events make it necessary to update your designations from time to time. If your beneficiary moves, you should update their address to ensure they'll be contacted should benefits need to be paid out. Also, if you become divorced or widowed, you should review your designation and possibly update it.

Wills are created to eliminate confusion for your loved ones in your absence. Some work now will be worth it when the time comes to enact your will.

Consult a financial professional
The laws related to inheriting assets are complex and can be confusing unless you have an experienced professional at your side. Financial professionals can help guide you through the process of updating your will. They can answer questions and provide insight on common solutions to will-related issues, and they can ensure that your wishes are granted with the way you set up your plans.

An ongoing process
Thrivent Financial recommends you review and update your beneficiary designations at least once a year or any time you have a life event. Regular reviews can prevent surprises down the road. They also provide an opportunity to discuss the future with loved ones: conversations that may otherwise be avoided. Leaving a legacy for the people and causes you care for most is a lasting, meaningful gift. To learn more, visit Thrivent.com.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and its respective associates and employees cannot provide legal, accounting, or tax advice or services. Work with your Thrivent Financial representative, and as appropriate, your attorney and/or tax professional for additional information. (ARA)

From Florida's Attorney General's Office:

• Do not list your first name in the telephone book. Instead use initials.
• Make sure your answering machine message does not indicate that you are alone.
• Have dead bolts installed on all doors. Keep doors and windows locked.
• Install a peep-hole on your door and look before opening the door. Never open the door to strangers.
• Keep blinds or drapes closed at night to discourage "Peeping Toms."
• Do not hang lingerie outdoors. Verify the identity of any repairmen.
• Use the telephone number listed in the phone book, not on their identification.
• If someone comes to your door asking to use the telephone, make the call yourself. Don't invite them in.
• Don't hide a spare key under the door mat or under a flower pot. Thieves know all the good hiding places.
• Plant thorny bushes under all windows.
• Invest in motion sensor lights and a good security system.
• Get a barking dog or "beware of dog" signs.
• Always double check doors at night and lock all windows.
• Be sure your garage door can be secured. Do not leave it open when you are away; an empty garage broadcasts your absence.

 
Women Only:
Discover valuable strategies, tools and tips for accelerating your business success! Sign up for a free membership to Women Helping Women Mastermind.