november 2015
DESCRIPTION
Please enjoy the latest issue of the Chamber Trends MagazineTRANSCRIPT
Trends
To Promote and Serve Business and Community
JOIN US FOR THEBUSINESS AFTER HOURS
NOVEMBER 19TH AT FOS FURNITURE
5:30 PM
LEADERSHIP GRADUATIONNOVEMBER 14TH
CAPE CORAL YACHT CLUB6:30 PM
JOIN US EVERY TUESDAY AT THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE FOR THE SURFSIDE SUNSET MARKET, 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM
CAPE CORAL FARMERS’ MARKET EVERY SATURDAY AT CLUB SQUARE 8:00 AM
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON MEETINGTUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10TH11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, CAPE CORAL YACHT CLUB
The Official Publication of The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral NOVEMBER 2015
Chamber
Publisher & EditorDonna Schuman-Germain
President/[email protected]
Contributing Editors
Stephanie RobersonTechnology Director
Claudia St. OngeBusiness Manager
Matt LambMembership Director
Annette Siner Membership Sales
Melanie LempkeAdministrative Generalist
Lyz Crouthamel Special Events Director
Chamber of Commerce of Cape CoralP.O. Box 100747, Cape Coral, FL 33910
2051 Cape Coral Parkway, Cape Coral, FL 33904Phone (239) 549-6900 Fax (239) 549-9609
NOVEMBER 2015NOVEMBER 10
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCHCAPE CORAL YACHT CLUB
5819 DRIFTWOOD PARKWAY, CAPE CORAL, FL 3390411:30 AM - 1:00 PM
NOVEMBER 14LEADERSHIP CAPE CORAL GRADUATION
CAPE CORAL YACHT CLUB 5819 DRIFTWOOD PARKWAY, CAPE CORAL, FL 33904
6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
NOVEMBER 19BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
FOS FURNITURE 790 DEL PRADO BLVD., CAPE CORAL, FL 33909
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
TUESDAYS YEAR ROUNDSURFSIDE SUNSET MARKET
THE SHOPS AT SURFSIDE VETERANS PARKWAY AND SURFSIDE BLVD.
CAPE CORAL, FL 339142:00 PM - 7:00 PM
EVERY SATURDAYCAPE CORAL FARMERS’ MARKET
CLUB SQUARE8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
DECEMBER 5THCENTURYLINK HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
CAPE CORAL PARKWAYSE 15TH AVE - CANDIA STREET
4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THE ABOVE EVENTS ONLINE VISIT WWW.CAPECORALCHAMBER.COM
2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORSChairman Ed Ramos, Ramos Builders, Inc.
Chair-Elect Brett Bisbe, B2 Technology Solutions, IncTreasurer Trish Lassiter, Lee County Electric Cooperative Past Chair Annette Carrasquillo,LAI Design Associates
Barb Adams, LeeSarBeverly Black, Black Business Solutions, LLC
Ed Bolter, Lamar AdvertisingDana Brunett, City of Cape CoralMatthew Connar, Boost Creative
Tony Constantino, Kevin M. Burns & Assoc. P.A.Diane Everhart, Blue Chip Financial
Joseph Francioni, The Smart CompaniesCynthia Gallagher, The Breeze Newspapers
Sandra Griener, Sun Splash Family WaterparkTom Hansen, Boat House of Cape Coral
Tim Hauck, Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral ServicesScott Kashman, Cape Coral Hospital
Laura Koehn, CapeCoral.comCheryl Komnick, Caloosa Tent & Rental
Michelle Lewis, B2 Technology SolutionsKatharyn Owen, Jones, Haber and Rollings, PL
Christopher Spiro, Spiro & AssociatesMichelle Whitlock, Siesta Pebble Pool Interiors
Zachary Zeis, Storm Smart
CHAIRMAN EMERITUSWayne Kirkwood, Kirkwood Electric, Inc.
Thomas Giles, Avalon EngineeringJoseph Mazurkiewicz, BJM Consulting, Inc.
Donna Meola, Priority Payments of South FloridaThomas Shipp Jr, Attorney
Elmer Tabor, Wonderland Realty/Cape Coral Town Center
TRUSTEESKevin Ahmadi, Gulf Coast Village
Keith Banasiak, Waste Pro of FloridaRhonda Chapman, First Citizens Bank
Nancy Dunning, Cape Coral Association of RealtorsSallie Dywer, SunTrust Merchant Services
Mike Hollow, RE//MAX Realty TeamJay Johnson, Bubba’s Roadhouse and Saloon
David Owen, BB & T - Oswald, Trippe & Co.Larry Weir, Premier Insurance Corporation
CHAMBER STAFFDonna S. Germain, President
Claudia St. Onge, Business Manager & Farmers’ Market Director
Stephanie Roberson, Technology DirectorMatt Lamb, Membership DirectorAnnette Siner, Membership Sales
Melanie Lempke, Administrative Generalist Lyz Crouthamel, Special Events Director
Lisa Barrella, Membership Sales Contractor Lisa Soundara, Sales Contractor
BE NUMBER ONE...BE SECOND TO NONE!
You 2016 Board of Directors
Donna S. GermainPresident
On behalf of the Chamber of
Commerce of Cape Coral, I would like to
congratulate the following members who will be serving on the 2016 Board of Directors. Thank you all for your continued commitment and vision and all you do to keep the chamber moving forward.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Chairman, Brett Bisbe, B2 Technology Solutions, Inc, Past Chairman, Ed Ramos, Ramos Builders, Inc., Chair Elect, Trish Lassiter, Lee County Electric Cooperative, Treasurer, Ed Bolter, Lamar Advertising, Barb Adams, Beverly Black, Black Business Solutions, LLC, Dana Brunett, City of Cape Coral, Matthew Connar, Boost Creative, Tony Constantino, Kevin M. Burns & Assoc. P.A., Angela Davis Merrill Lynch, Diane Everhart, Blue Chip Financial, Joseph Francioni, The Smart Companies, Cynthia Gallagher, The Breeze Newspapers, Sandra Griener, Sun Splash Family Waterpark, Tom
Hansen, Boat House of Cape Coral, Tim Hauck, Fuller Metz Cremation and Funeral Services, Jay Johnson, Bubba’s Roadhouse and Saloon, Laura Koehn, CapeCoral.com, Mike Quaintance, Keiser University, Christopher Spiro, Spiro & Associates, Michelle Whitlock, Siesta Pebble Pool Interiors, Zachary Zeis, Storm Smart
TRUSTEES: Kevin Ahmadi, Gulf Coast Village, Keith Banasiak, Waste Pro of Florida, Nancy Dunning, Cape Coral Association of Realtors, Rana Erbrick, Cape Coral City Council, Bill Jacob, CenturyLink, Mike Noone, Goldberg, Racila, D’Alessandro & Noone, LLC, David Owen, BB & T - Oswald, Trippe & Co., Larry Weir, Premier Insurance Corporation
CHAIRMAN EMERITUS: Annette Carrasquillo, LAI Design Associates, Thomas Giles, Avalon Engineering, Wayne Kirkwood, Kirkwood Electric, Inc., Michelle Lewis, B2 Technology Solutions, Joseph Mazurkiewicz, BJM Consulting, Inc., Donna Meola, Priority Payments of South Florida, Don Schnell, Regions Bank, Thomas Shipp Jr, Attorney, Elmer Tabor, Wonderland Realty/Cape Coral Town Center.
CHAMBER TRENDS
NEW MEMBERSAlvin A. Dubin Alzheimer’s Resource
CenterJan Kerlin
C1 BankDan Fulton
CRE Cape Harbour Marina, LLCDennis Bessey
Embrace Home LoansJeff Ocasio
FIRPTA Solutions IncBrenda Allen
Florida Stingrays FootballJay Lawrence
Individual - Maggie LaCosteMaggie LaCoste
KPL Capital Ovadia Ovi Levy
No. 3 Craft BrewGreg Calverase
Overtime Pizzeria & Sports PubKristina Amato
Perk & Brew Theresa Knazek
Sovereign Health GroupJuliana Metzner
Vascular & Vein Center at Gulfcoast Surgeons
Jeffrey Hammond
RENEWALSA Worldwide Person & Information
Locators & Investigations Inc.Member Since: 10/11/2000
AAE GlassMember Since: 10/26/2011
Arnold Roberts Signature HomesMember Since: 10/17/2011
Penguin PoolsMember Since: 06/30/2006
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Inc
Member Since: 08/28/2012
Blot Engineering, Inc.Member Since: 10/09/2013
Cambio DermatologyMember Since: 09/19/2007
Cape Coral Power SquadronMember Since: 10/01/2009
Cataract & Refractive InstituteMember Since: 09/01/1991
CC Stone w/Coastal Realty SWFLMember Since: 03/03/2009
Century 21 Sunbelt Realty, Inc.Member Since: 09/01/1992
Choices in Living, LLCMember Since: 10/20/2014
City of Cape CoralMember Since: 06/01/1993
Coconut Bay Construction, Inc.Member Since: 10/26/2011
Comfort KeepersMember Since: 10/30/2013
Community Lending a Division of Hamilton Group Funding Inc.Member Since: 10/21/2014
Florida Skin CenterMember Since: 10/11/2012
Florida SouthWestern State CollegeMember Since: 10/01/1990
Gables Insurance RecoveryMember Since: 09/26/2014
Gulf Coast Woman MagazineMember Since: 10/27/2014
Hampton Inn & SuitesMember Since: 10/03/2014
Hodges UniversityMember Since: 10/09/2012
Holiday and MoreMember Since: 10/10/2014
Home Services By RafaelMember Since: 08/22/2007
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa
Member Since: 09/30/2014
IBERIABANKMember Since: 11/01/2004
Intech Printing and Direct MailMember Since: 09/02/2014
James M. Wesolowski, CPA, P.A.Member Since: 10/27/2014
Kobayashi Dojo / Main CampusMember Since: 03/01/1997
Literacy Council GulfcoastMember Since: 09/26/2006
Massage Envy Spa - Cape CoralMember Since: 08/08/2012
Men’s Rights Law FirmMember Since: 10/06/2008
Merits Health Products, IncMember Since: 09/16/2011
MYCO Business SystemsMember Since: 09/26/2014
Parker House PropertiesMember Since: 09/14/2011
Pottery ExpressMember Since: 10/29/2011
Premier Insurance Corp., Inc.Member Since: 10/20/2000
Progressive Employer ManagementMember Since: 10/10/2014
REALTOR® Assoc. of Greater Fort Myers & the Beaches
Member Since: 10/28/1999
Renaissance SchoolMember Since: 10/27/2011
Seminole Casino ImmokaleeMember Since: 09/02/2010
Smoothie King Cape CoralMember Since: 09/02/2014
Sunshine JewelersMember Since: 06/27/2012
Thank Home Corp.Member Since: 10/25/2013
Trafalgar Middle SchoolMember Since: 09/28/2007
Water Medic of Cape Coral, IncMember Since: 09/19/2013
Woody’s Surfside Island Rum & GrilleMember Since: 10/10/2012
THANK YOU FOR YOUR MEMBERSHIP!
SEPTEMBER NEW MEMBERS & RENEWALS
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Vascular & Vein Center At Gulfcoast Surgeons1003 Del Prado Blvd., Suite 204
Cape Coral, FL 33990 (239) 939-1767
www.gulfcoastsurgeons.com
Records Results! Real Estate3046 Del Prado Blvd S Ste 1A
Cape Coral, FL 33904 | (239) 205-6589 | fax: (239) 205-6594
http://www.recordsresultsrealestate.com/
Connect Hearing1722 Del Prado Blvd. S. Suite 2
Cape Coral, 33990www.connecthearing.com
(239) 458-7900
Minaya Learning Global Solutions, LLC 4645 SE 11th Place Suite 104
Cape Coral, FL 33904www.minayalearning.com
“A MEDICAL TREATMENT WITH NO SIDE EFFECTS”
Salvatore Lacagnina, D.O.Vice President of Health & Wellness,
Lee Memorial Health System
This week I had the pleasure of attending a medical conference with 600 other physicians,
nutritionists, other health care providers but also a number of non-medical folks interested in learning how to become and stay healthy. Over a four-day period we listened to and participated in almost two
dozen presentations which all had one central theme - the delivery of a medical treatment with no side effects and only positive benefits.
On Wednesday evening we listened to the keynote speaker, Dr. Kim Williams, the past president of the America College of Cardiology, who espoused the benefits of this blockbuster treatment. On Thursday we heard from the well-known Dr. Dean Ornish who reiterated many of the benefits discussed by Dr. Williams but expanded further on this wonder treatment. Dr. Scott Stoll spoke about the central mechanism for most of the chronic illnesses known as inflammation of the arteries and explained how this treatment option represented a cure for most of the medical problems we deal with today. Dr. William Li talked about angiogenesis which is the development of new blood vessels and explained how this medical treatment improved circulation and overall health. Dr. Corey Howard spoke about the microbiome and explained how the bacteria in our GI system is beneficially affected by this medical therapy and how not adopting this medical treatment results in leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome and other GI maladies. Dr. Brooke Goldner spoke about how this medical therapy improves most auto immune diseases while Dr. Brie Turner-McGrievy spoke about its benefits for women with poly cystic ovarian disease. Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn told us how this treatment option also prevents and reverses cardiovascular disease. He explained in detail how his patients over the last 30 years have been able to reverse the blockages in their arteries and avoid having heart bypass surgery -- amazing!
Dr. Craig McDougall told the audience how to implement this wonderful treatment and prevention option in a general medical practice. Next Micaela Karlsen and Kathy Pollard explained the need for individuals interested in the benefits of this treatment option to commit to changing their behavior if they were to reap its benefits. Lastly, Dr. Michael Greger pulled it all together by talking about hundreds of research studies supporting the benefits of this amazing treatment and prevention option which can benefit everyone on the planet including those with disease and those without. He reviewed with us many research reports that continued to drum into our heads the benefits and the reasons why we all should make this prevention and treatment strategy a part of our professional and personal lives.
By now I hope you are sitting on the edge of your seat wondering what this wonder drug is! Well, it is not a drug at all – it is food! Yes, we spent three days hearing about the benefits of food. But not just any food; these are plant based
foods. Yes, vegetables. It is amazing to understand how a plant based nutrition program can prevent disease, treat disease and allow people to live a better quality and a longer life. All of these statements are supported by hundreds, if not thousands, of research studies we heard about during this conference. If you are interested in more details, you can visit online PlantricianProject.org and NutritionFacts.org. At each of these sites, you can follow links to a significant amount of information that can change your life.
At this point you might be asking, “Why do I need to change my life?” The answer is, because if we don’t, then what we have to look forward to as we age is a greater risk of all chronic illnesses and many of the most common cancers. Einstein said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing and expecting a different result. As a nation if we continue to eat the standard American diet (SAD), the only thing we can count on is the same rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, chronic pain syndromes, autoimmune diseases and cancers.
When we compare longevity for those eating the standard American diet versus those in the world who eat more of a plant based nutrition program, we see that the populations who eat more vegetables and less meat and dairy live the longest. That is a fact. For the populations who eat more meat and dairy, the risk of more illness is significant and this is one reason I am so passionate about spreading this information to all that are interested.
As I sat and listened to all these wonderful speakers, I kept asking myself, “Why do more people not know about this method of maintaining good health?” Why do we see so many TV commercials about medications for heartburn, back pain, high cholesterol and cancer treatment to name a few? We do not see commercials for healthy eating which we know helps us avoid the diseases these medications are made for. When we treat the cause and not the symptom, we cure and prevent disease. The traditional mentality seems to be: I have a symptom (heartburn) so give me a pill to get rid of the symptom. Wouldn’t it be better to ask, “What is the cause of the symptom and can we do something to get rid of the cause so we do not need to take a medication to treat the symptom?” I believe this is the best takeaway from this conference. We know that the food we eat creates health or disease. The choices we make at each meal and snack moves us closer to better health or faster into aging and disease.
For 18 years I practiced general internal medicine and it saddened me when patients did not get well. Experience highlighted the individuals who took care of themselves by eating healthy food, exercising regularly and making health a priority in their lives. Since 2010 when I took the role as the VP of Health and Wellness for the Lee Memorial Health System, I have been working more diligently with people to prevent disease. My emphasis is finding the cause of the problem and getting rid of that rather than simply treating the symptoms. For my patients with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and a history of a stroke, I recommend a plant based nutrition program. For the individuals who are committed to becoming and staying healthy, they transition into this new and healthy lifestyle realizing the benefits over a short period of time.
Please feel free to send comments and questions to [email protected]
HEALTHY TRENDS
10 years ago, we startedour climb.
And we haven’t peaked yet.
10th Anniversary
10th Anniversary
239.540.4550 • HomePlusInc.comLicensed & Insured • LIC #CCC1327391
Specializing In Re-Roofs & Repairs
Shingle • Tile • Metal • Flat RoofFor the past 10 years, we’ve taken what some might see as a unique approach to the way we go about our business–doing things the right way. From preliminary site visits to wood work, drying in, flashing and, ultimately, the roof, everything is done without the shortcuts commonly taken by so many others. We believe that when it comes to protecting your home, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We’ve done it this way for 10 years, and we’re just getting started!
*Offers may not be redeemed for cash or be combined with any other promotions.**Go to HomesPlusInc.com for details on fan.
$200 OFF $75 OFF $75 OFFANY COMPLETE
RE-ROOF*ANY ROOF
REPAIR*SOLAR
ATTIC FAN**
HOMP 16826 April2015 ChamberTrends.indd 1 4/2/15 3:53 PM
2 weeks FREEdigital subscription trial
news-press com/freeREGISTERTODAY AT:
Offer Expires 12/31/15
Whether You Just Joined or Just Renewed Your Membership...
Schedule Your Ribbon Cutting Today!Call Matt Lamb, Membership Director
(239) 549-6900 ext 103
For tickets call 239-481-4849 or visit www.bbmannpah.com
$10, $20, and $30 TicketsReserved Seating Only
Chamber Trends Monthly Advertising Basic Advertising Prices
Full Page $337.00 1/2 Page $227.00 1/4 Page $147.00
Business Card $117.00 (All ads include a hyperlink to your company’s website or a 30-second commercial promoting your business.
Non-profit organizations receive 2 free 1/2 page ads per year upon request with their membership.)
Prime Advertising Pricing Full Page $367.00 1/2 Page $287.00 1/4 Page $207.00
Business Card $167.00 (All ads include a hyperlink to your company’s website or a 30-second commercial promoting your business and a banner ad in the
Chamber Trends Weekly E-Newsletter)
Specials Feature Your Business On The Cover
Cover photo showcasing your company with a full page article, up to 3 pictures and company logo spotlighting your business. Only one per month. First come first serve basis. Your spotlight can also be linked to your company website and/or a commercial
promoting your business.
Chamber Trends Weekly Advertising
Press Release $25.00 (Runs 1x, includes 60 words, company logo, link to your company website.)
(Non-profit organizations run 2x for $25.00)
Banner Advertisement $50.00 per month (runs 4x, includes link to your website)
Company Spotlight $157.00
(Runs 4x, includes short story, link to website, link to additional company information, 2 pictures and Company logo.)
E-mail Blasts Company Spotlight E-mail Blast $199.00
The investment for the Business Spotlight is $199 and will run twice throughout the month of your choice. Dimensions - 6 inches wide x 8 inches tall, 300 dpi resolution.
Please call Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext. 107 for more information. All Chamber Publications Are Distributed to More Than 16,000 contacts
• ToptenUnitedWayemployeecontributorandcommunitypartner
• Employeesvolunteermorethan5,000hoursannually
• Maintaining8,000milesofpowerlinesyear-round
• On-call24hoursaday,7daysaweek,365daysayear
• Proudlyservingcustomerssince1940
• OneofonlysixCenters of Excellenceintheutilityindustry
Quality Service
Reliability
• Norateincreaseforsixyears.Ratedecreasein2014*
• Returned$220millioninequityovertheyears
* 7% Public Service Tax – Imposed by Cape Coral City Council* 3% Cape Coral Franchise fee* 4.5% Unincorporated Lee County Franchise Fee – Approved by Lee County Commissioners
Financial Strength
Community
www.lcec.net
LCEC – your cooperative empowers you!WhenyouareanLCECcustomer,youbelongtooneofthelargestnot-for-profitelectriccooperativesinthenation.Governedbycustomers,wearecommittedtodeliveringreliableandcostcompetitiveelectricity.
GETTING CLOSER TO HIGH SEASON
Berge Aslanian (CDPE) Realtor, Island Harbor Realty
As we proceed into the holiday season we are getting closer to our high season. Some
interesting things have been happening in the wonderful world of Cape Coral real estate. The numbers from October are offering a few hints but the real information will come from firsthand experience. To make sure you have a
truly Happy Thanksgiving, read on. Our trends will shed some light. But first, let’s take a look at the Cape Coral
numbers for the three month period ending 10/31/15:
All of a sudden, inventory of homes for sale has taken a jump upward while median prices dropped a bit. Prices of single family homes Sold have also dropped slightly along with numbers of homes Sold.
Condos For Sale also went up in numbers of units while median prices decreased. Sold units jumped by over 35% with median prices showing a small improvement.
With so many properties on the market at one of our typically slow periods, sales will naturally go down. Even though prices of all Sold units are relatively steady, we are seeing a drop in homes sold with an increase in condos sold. The market is buying more of the lower priced properties.
Sellers have been pricing their properties very aggressively to maximize profits while taking advantage of our strengthening real estate market. But, if prices are too high, less homes will be sold as we see in the single family category. The jump in condos sold is a knee-jerk reaction to the higher prices of single family homes; if you can’t afford the home, you aim lower and buy a condo because real estate prices here are still noticeably lower than most of the national markets.
In the past ten days, I have had two experiences with over-zealous sellers. The first experience had me representing the potential buyer of a property that had been over improved (and not in a very practical way). The seller wanted way too much considering the price per square foot and the location. Seller would not budge in price and the buyer, trying to use VA financing, simply offered the appraisal amount. Buyer had paid for a VA Appraisal prior
to making the offer; they smartly paid before so they would not incur all the fees and costs of applying for the loan without knowing they would get the property.
Then, at the end of last week a new client who wanted me to list their house told me they “needed” to sell it for 25% more than its actual market value. Why? Because they wanted to pay off school loans, credit cards and still have enough for a strong down payment on a bigger house. Good idea but not very realistic. Just because you need the money does not mean you will get it, especially when the amount is so much higher than what the market will pay for a house.
When looking through the MLS, we are seeing a higher number of properties, including lots and condos, that are priced way higher than what the market will pay. When looking at listed properties, one only has to look at Days on Market (DOM); when the number is 150 or higher, the most likely explanation is that it is priced too high.
In a rising market like we have been experiencing, sellers eyes have been known to roll back in their heads causing them to get too ambitious in what they think the property is worth. To maintain consciousness, it is extremely important to talk with an experienced realtor who can provide comparative pricing and insight to determine a price that makes sense.
Those that don’t follow this instruction are doomed to have their property remain in the “Active” category rather than the “Sold” category. When looking at the most recent “Sold” numbers, it becomes apparent that buyers are buying up the lower priced properties simply because they represent a better value and they are more affordable.
Also, under the new settlement statement rules we know that financed properties may take significantly longer to close because the statements are generated by the lender. To enhance buying power, cash deals now have more sway because settlement statements for these deals are generated by the local title company handling the transaction. That means a buyer can negotiate a bit more favorable deal by offering cash and a quick closing.
In order to make a good deal when selling, price the property realistically based on comps and not on what a friend, neighbor or relative tells you. When buying, try to pay cash if you want to make a better deal in today’s changing market. How can you do all of this, get a licensed real estate agent to help you. Happy Property Hunting or Selling!
Berge Aslanian (CDPE) is a Realtor in Cape Coral with Island Harbor Realty and an active member of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral. For questions about residential real estate, please call his cell, (239) 989-3463 or email [email protected] or visit www.RECapeCoral.com.
REAL ESTATE TRENDS
BE NUMBER ONE...BE SECOND TO NONE!
11-2-15 Real Estate Trends
Getting Closer to High Season
As we proceed into the holiday season we are getting closer to our high season. Some interesting things have been happening in the wonderful world of Cape Coral real estate. The numbers from October are offering a few hints but the real information will come from firsthand experience. To make sure you have a truly Happy Thanksgiving, read on. Our trends will shed some light. But first, let’s take a look at the Cape Coral numbers for the three month period ending 10/31/15: Aug ‘15 Sept ’15 Oct ‘15 Homes Median $ Homes Median $ Homes Median $ For Sale 1235 $329,750 1258 $329,750 1348 $325,000 Sold 308 $198,000 357 $194,000 313 $193,500
Aug ’15 Sept ’15 Oct ‘15 Condos Median $ Condos Median $ Condos Median $ For Sale 193 $179,500 199 $199,500 220 $180,500 Sold 36 $125,000 33 $122,000 45 $125,500
All of a sudden, inventory of homes for sale has taken a jump upward while median prices dropped a bit. Prices of single family homes Sold have also dropped slightly along with numbers of homes Sold. Condos For Sale also went up in numbers of units while median prices decreased. Sold units jumped by over 35% with median prices showing a small improvement. With so many properties on the market at one of our typically slow periods, sales will naturally go down. Even though prices of all Sold units are relatively steady, we are seeing a drop in homes sold with an increase in condos sold. The market is buying more of the lower priced properties. Sellers have been pricing their properties very aggressively to maximize profits while taking advantage of our strengthening real estate market. But, if prices are too high, less homes will be sold as we see in the single family category. The jump in condos sold is a knee-jerk reaction to the higher prices of single family homes; if you can’t afford the home, you aim lower and buy a condo because real estate prices here are still noticeably lower than most of the national markets. In the past ten days, I have had two experiences with over-zealous sellers. The first experience had me representing the potential buyer of a property that had been over improved (and not in a very practical way). The seller wanted way too much considering the price per square foot and the location. Seller would not budge in price and the buyer, trying to use VA financing, simply offered the appraisal amount. Buyer had paid for a VA Appraisal prior to making the offer; they smartly paid before so they would not incur all the fees and costs of applying for the loan without knowing they would get the property.
At the October General Membership Lunch, more than 100 members came out to honor our local
principal’s at the Chamber’s Annual Principal’s Lunch. The members were entertained by some very talented students from the Skyline Elementary School Chorus.
(Mid Left) Guest Speaker, Dr. Doni Landefeld spoke to the group about the importance of education and growing leaders.
(Mid Right) Achieva Credit Union picked a lucky principal to enter their money booth at the luncheon.
(Bottom Left) The staff from the Cape Coral Caring Center presented the final total and plaques to the organizations who helped with this year’s SOS Feed The Cape Food Drive - pictured, Julie Ferguson, Wendy Wooton, Donna Germain and Bill Johnson, Jr.
(Bottom Right) Annual Lunch Sponsor, Joe Padgett with LCEC addressed the group at the luncheon.
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP LUNCH
Lee Memorial Health SystemP.O. Box 2218
Fort Myers, FL 33902
CenturyLink Store2710 Del Prado Blvd. South
Cape Coral, FL 33904
LCEC4980 Bayline Dr
North Fort Myers, FL 33917
B2 Technology Solutions1406 SE 46th Lane
Cape Coral, FL 33904
Dean Street Insurance615 Cape Coral Pkwy W 104, Cape Coral
Gulf Coast Village Retirement Community 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd. Cape Coral
The News-Press - Fort Myers Office2442 Dr. MLK Blvd. Ft. Myers
Fifth Third Bank2402 Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33991
2724 Del Prado Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33904114 Hancock Bridge Pkwy, Cape Coral, FL 33991
1801 NE Pine Island Rd, Cape Coral, FL 339091600 Cape Coral Pkwy. E, Cape Coral, FL 33904
DiamondMember
Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral
ExecutiveMember
Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral
$LCEC works hard to manage costs, maintain the electric system, improve processes and create efficiencies so that electric rates can remain competitive for customers. We do not plan to raise rates in 2013 and will continue to do everything possible to keep rates stable.
The increase on your upcoming electric bill is due to a tax imposed by the City of Cape Coral. LCEC customers in Cape Coral will notice a change in their electric bill beginning October 1, 2013. Cape Coral City officials recently levied a public service tax of 7 percent that will be added to monthly electric bills. The new tax will be displayed on your LCEC bill as a separate line item so it can be easily identified. LCEC is required by law to collect the tax from business and residential customers who purchase electricity in Cape Coral. LCEC will deliver funds to the City similar to how Cape Coral franchise fees are delivered, which are also collected through electric bills.This new tax will be used to fund the City’s general operations. To calculate the amount the monthly public service tax will add to your electric bill, visit www.capecoral.net and utilize the PST Calculator. Please refer any questions regarding the Cape Coral public service tax to the Cape Coral Citizens’ Action Center, 239-574-0425.
LCEC hasn’t raised electric rates in nearly 5 years!
www.lcec.net • 239-656-2300
WHAT DOES YOUR FUTURE HOLD
Professor MIchael “Q” Quaintance, MBAKeiser University
Most of us do not own a crystal ball, and therefore we are unable to foretell the future. Sometimes we
might think that it would be an advantage to know what life has in store for us. However, not knowing our future allows each of us a clean slate every morning. As business professionals,
we have a responsibility to look out into the future to predict changes in the environment, both opportunities and challenges. I would suggest that it is better to be a predictor than a responder. This is much like being a sled dog; the view is much rosier at the front of the pack.
One regional coalition that has formed to address our region future needs is called “Future Makers”, which has the support of many organizations in the five county area. As a product of the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, the coalition’s purpose is to increase our constituencies post-secondary and certification rates from 27 percent to 40 percent.
Why are more degrees and certifications important? From an economic development perspective, it is ‘HUGE’, as it is an indicator of a community’s overall
brainpower, which can be inducement for businesses relocation and investment in our region. Having an educated workforce is critical to businesses, which rely on local talent to provide them a competitive edge. Through a higher educated regional workforce, we can increase the amount of economic activity in our region, and this rising tide will raise the level of success for all businesses.
Opportunities for you, the business owner, as they relate to a highly educated workforce include job satisfaction, retention, competitive advantage, a motivated workforce, better succession planning, enhanced decision-making, and greater overall productivity. A higher educated workforce can lead to lower taxes, as the burden of the cost of government is shared amongst a greater number of players.
To move the degree/certification needle from 27 percent to 40 percent in our region, it is going to take a paradigm shift for all of us. For education organizations, it means a more expedient or predictive processes to meet the changing needs of business in our region. For businesses, the shift means greater support and creativity for existing employees and their educational endeavors. Considerations could include time-off for educational opportunities, internship opportunities for students, childcare, and a shared financial investment. These shifts in activities will be required to promote a healthier Southwest Florida.
If you would like to learn more about the Future Makers Coalition go to http://floridacommunity.com/futuremakers-coalition, click on the “FutureMakers Coalition” icon at the bottom of the page. I would like to thank Campus President, Nancy Tedros of Keiser University of Fort Myers for encouraging myself and others on the KU staff to participate in building the future of our region.
UNIVERSITY TRENDS
Get In Touch with New Residents, Prospects and Visitors
with our Relocation Leads Program!Contact Melanie Lempke at
549-6900 ext 102 or [email protected]
Tuesday, Nov. 17th, 2015 · 5-8:30 pmCape Christian Fellowship · 2110 Chiquita Blvd., Cape Coral
Trade Show begins at 5:00 pm · Featured Presenters start 6:30 pm$10 Admission includes food and drink
Part of the proceeds to benefit the For Tickets Visit www.CapeCoral.com/CatchTheVision Tickets can be purchased online at CatchTheVisionCapeCoral.com
For more information call Gloria Tate/Linda Biondi of Raso Realty, Inc. at 239-542-2254
A 2016 Real Estate Look Forward
Presented By:
Sponsored By:In Conjunction With:
A 2016 Real Estate Look ForwardA 2016 Real Estate Look Forward
558-8599
“ For All Your Plumbing Needs”
RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL
SERVICING ALL OF SOUTH WEST FLORIDA
24 Hour Emergency Service
(239)
DAVIS JR.
PLUMBING
INC.
DAVIS JR.
PLUMBING
INC.
Jr. Leadership Sponsorship Opportunity
____ I would like to be a STUDENT SPONSOR $199.00 (30 Available) Student sponsor will have their company name & logo on two power point presentations— March 2016 Luncheon and Jr. Leadership Graduation, a paid seat with their student at the March 2016 General membership luncheon and will sit with student at Jr. Leadership Graduation.
____ I would like to be a SNACK SPONSOR—$250.00 (2 Available) Snack sponsor will have their company name and logo on all Jr. Leadership material*, Company name and Logo in Jr. Leadership handbook and one seat at the 2016 Jr. Leadership Graduation. This sponsorship will cover the cost of snacks and drinks for all nine Jr. Leadership program sessions. Approx. 35 guest .
____ I would Like to be a BUS SPONSOR—$500.00 (4 Available) Bus sponsor will have their company name logo on all Jr. Leadership materials*, Company name & Logo on power point presentations at March 2016 Luncheon and at Jr. Leadership Graduation, Name & Logo in Jr. Leadership Handbook, Recognition at Jr. Leadership Orientation, March 2016 general membership luncheon and at Jr. Leadership Graduation. You will also have two seats at the 2016 Jr. Leadership Graduation. *This does not include Jr. Leadership shirt.
Join our fellow sponsors
BJM Consulting - BB&T Oswald, Trippe & Co. - The Aubuchon Team of Companies
Network AdministrationMaintenance Agreements
Off-site Data StorageDell, Acer, Apple(239) 573-1000
www.entechcomputers.com
We Know Marketing.
We’ll help you turn new customers into brand advocates.
No one knows Southwest Florida better than The News-Press Media Group. From brands to customers, we connect more audiences, in more places, in more ways with the right mix of marketing. But it’s more than having the right tools; it’s knowing how to use them. We’ll help you stay ahead of what’s trending for the best ways to build your business.
CALL 239.335.0520EMAIL [email protected]
VISIT marketingstrategies.news-press.com
Could your business use a little more loyalty?
Loyal
Advertise in the Chamber Trends Weekly E-Newsletter.
A Banner Ad is just $50 per month!!
Contact Donna Germain at 549-6900 ext 107 or
The Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral kicked off the 2015 Leadership Cape Coral program by welcoming this year’s class at kick off on August 14. The “Dream Team of 2015” didn’t take long to get into the spirit of Leadership picking their class name and declaring themselves “The Best Class Ever!”
In their third month, the class attended Mosquito Control and Sheriff’s Day where they learned about the importance of having the Lee County Mosquito Control District in our community. The also visited the Lee Country Sheriff’s Department forensics building, the Lee County Gun Range and Lee County Jail. The next week was Education Day where they learned about the Lee County and Cape Coral Charter School systems. They also enjoyed a delicious lunch prepared by the Culinary Academy at the Cape Coral Technical College. The following week was Coast Guard Day where the class spent the day at the US Coast Guard Station at Fort Myers Beach. They learned how the Coast Guard protects our waterways, which is crucial to a community with over 400 miles of canals. The next week was City Government and Public Safety Day where they witnessed a mock SWAT hostage situation, toured and did some hands on activities with the Cape Coral Fire Department and also participated in a mock Cape Coral City Council meeting. The final week for the Dream Team of 2015 was Arts and Entertainment Day. They visited Cultural Park Theatre where they performed some improvisational skits and also worked on an art project at the Cape Coral Art League. The class was treated to a special lunch with some of our Leadership Alumni sponsored by Karen Schuman Barnes with UBS Financial Services and Keith Banasiak of Waste Pro.
Thank you to all of our day chairs who rounded out the last month of the program; Fernando Gomes, Chuck Warren, Annette Siner, Captain Pete Louzao, Dan Puleio, Yvonne Werline, Laura Koehn, Heather Mazurkiewicz, Rana Erbrick, Joe Mazurkiewicz, Eileen DeLucca, Steve Teuber, Bill Johnson, Jr. Andrew Lampkins, Sarah Sheffield
And a special thank you to our program chairs Jay Johnson and Karen Schuman Barnes and our Co Chairs Stacy Lomonaco and John Hobson.
LEADERSHIP CAPE CORAL 2015
2051 Cape Coral Parkway ECape Coral, FL 33904
(239) 549-6900(800) 226-9609
www.capecoralchamber.com