Huricane Preparedness 2008

Hurricane season is upon us and it is time to check your supplies. Lake County Florida has been fortunate since the 2004 hurricane season when we were pummeled every three weeks by the likes of Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jean.

This year the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is calling for 12 to 16 named storms and 2 to 5 of those being major. Will we experience another season like 2004 or will we have the worry-free season like 2007? We don’t know. The key is to be prepared for a 2004 and breathe a sigh of relief when we get 2007.

So what supplies should you have in your emergency kit?

· One (1) gallon of water per person per day (Don’t forget additional water for pets.)
· 3-day supply of non-perishable food – ready to eat canned meat, fruit and vegetables—canned juices, high-energy foods, vitamins, baby food – comfort and stress foods
· Can opener
· NOAA weather radio – extra batteries
· First Aid Kit – including bandages, gauze, cold pack small scissors, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, tape, antiseptic wipes, hand wipes, hand sanitizer, pain reliever
· Paper goods – plates, napkins, cups and plastic forks, spoons and knives
· Battery operated radio – extra batteries
· Flashlights – extra batteries
· Fire extinguisher
· Tools – pliers, shut-off wrench
· Large tarps
· Garbage bags
· Rope
· Cash – remember, if the power is out ATMs will not be operational

You should have a full emergency kit at your home. You may choose to have a smaller version of this kit in your vehicle.

If you decide to purchase a generator please learn how to safely operate it prior to an emergency. The same goes for chainsaws and all power tools.

Once your area has been placed under a hurricane watch (which means there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24 to 36 hours):
· Make sure your emergency kit is properly stocked
· Gas up your vehicle
· Bring in or secure outdoor objects such as patio furniture, toys and garden tools
· Clear your yard of debris
· Install storm protection devices such as hurricane shutters.
· Gather important documents and either put them with your emergency kit or place them in your car.

Remember in the event of a hurricane you may be several days without power and roadways may be unsafe to travel. Take personal responsibility for your well-being and prepare accordingly.

Interested in buying or selling a home in northeast Lake County Florida, including Eustis, Mount Dora, Howey-in-the-Hills, Tavares and Sorrento contact JoEllen E. Stranger-Thorsen, REALTOR® for all your real estate needs. Visit my website.

Whether you enjoy boats or bikes, horses or birds, antiques or art, Lake County has it for you.

I have called Lake County home since 1999. This is the Lake County I know...

I was a crime scene investigator with the Orange County Sheriff's Office when I met and married my husband, a deputy with the agency. At the time I lived in downtown Orlando area and I enjoyed the faster pace and many conveniences of the city. (Such as lattes and Chinese food delivery.) He had called Lake County home for over twenty years after growing up in Zellwood and doing a stint in the Navy. When we married I moved to his Lake County home.

I live in Eustis, located in the heart of central Florida along the eastern shore of Lake Eustis. With a population of 17,000 and growing Eustis has small town friendliness with a historical downtown, a variety of dining experiences and an excellent hospital. Lake Eustis is a 7,000 acre lake and is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes.

Lake County has 1400 lakes and the best of these make up the Harris Chain of Lakes. The Harris Chain flows into the Oklawaha River, feeding the St. Johns River and eventually traveling all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.

Lake Eustis and Lake Dora are connected by the Dora Canal, reportedly the most beautiful 1/2 mile of water in the world. I personally recommend kayaking this scenic canal. Don't forget your camera; you can get the most amazing pictures of the wildlife.

I was attracted to Mount Dora long before I lived here. I used to travel the 45 minutes from Orlando twice a year to attend the Mount Dora Arts Festival held the first weekend in February and the Mount Dora Crafts Festival held the fourth weekend in October. In addition to these fine festivals there are several other events held in Mount Dora; Taste of Mount Dora (May), Art Car weekend (August), plant festival (November), antiques festivals, music festivals, concerts in the park, outdoor movies, etc.

I am proud to call Lake County home. I have found several locations for good lattes, no Chinese food delivery (that's okay; my husband doesn't like Chinese food.) Lake County is a great place to live, work and raise my children. I enjoy visiting the big cities and catching the energy, but I always enjoy coming home where I kick up my feet, relax and still have that frilly cup of coffee!

Welcome to Lake County Florida Real Estate -- Let's Talk

Everyone wants to know what is happening in the market and if we have hit bottom. I will tell you what I see and give you my professional opinion.

In Lake County we are still undergoing a market correction. That being said, buyers do not be afraid to move forward with a purchase. Sellers go ahead and put your home on the market.

When I say we are still undergoing a market correction I mean there are still some areas that are priced and selling above market value. The inventory is still high and there is not enough demand.

Buyers you have negotiating power. This does not mean you can steal a house. This means you can take your time to find a home that suits your needs, do your homework, and make a fair market value offer that will most likely be accepted. Just to let you know, despite the numerous doom and gloom media reports not every seller is on the brink of foreclosure.

Sellers you have power also. Even though it is a buyer's market you do not have to give your house away. Hire a REALTOR and listen to them. (I suggest you talk to at least three before you decide who to hire.) Take the advice of your REALTOR and price your home accordingly. Make sure your REALTOR is marketing your home effectively and keeping you apprised of market conditions. Your house will sell if it is priced to sell and marketed effectively.

Over the past couple months I have seen more buyers out looking at properties. My phone has been ringing a little more and my e-mail inbox has seen more activity.

If you are interested in buying or selling a home in Northeast Lake County, Florida call me.