Every Realtor I know checks the MLS first to see what the market is doing…what’s sold, when and where. Not me!  MLS has no FSBO’s. My best barometer is Kevin Rose, President of Federal Building Inspections.  Better known to his clients as FBI.

I came across Kevin through a recommendation by the Jupiter, Tequesta, Hobe Sound Board of Realtors. That was one great recommendation…because Kevin is the absolute best at what he does. And an excellent source of knowledge for what’s going on locally.

Despite the national economic climate, as well as the Florida real estate slowdown, Kevin’s take on the local real estate market is generally optimistic. When asked how most Brokers are faring he reported, “Everyone’s in survival mode.” But, he qualified that statement with, “I’m beginning to notice a shift. Last year during all of September I did 50 home inspections. This year, during the first half of September I’ve already done 65… and there are plenty more on the books.” I would agree. Two of those inspections, happily, were mine.

Kevin’s take on the market tells me two things. In this particular buyer’s market, buyers are once again starting to get active. And clearly I’m not the only one who trusts FBI.

Some believe in the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. I believe in the rainbow itself. Particularly when it’s perched outside my window, overlooking palm trees and pool. It’s one of the perks of a Florida summer…the calm after the tropical storm. I believe a view like this is pure gold…and could make anyone a Florida convert. Complain about the humid summers all you like. But I’ll take all the sun-drenched rainbows and balmy Jupiter nights I can get! That’s my view. But then, I’m partial.