Florida Realtors Share Their Expertise!

Gayle Borden

Which real estate company do you work for?

The Gayle Borden Real Estate Group is very proud to be a part of Coldwell Banker Previews International.  I joined Coldwell Banker in 1985, and my partner, Carol Klock joined in 1982, and we’ve been with them ever since.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I have been a full-time professional realtor since 1985.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

The Gayle Borden Group specializes in marketing luxury homes, condominiums, and townhomes throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale, and all of Broward County, as well as income-producing  residential and commercial properties and hotels.

Is the market good for buying a home right now?

With interest rates so low, and a good, balanced inventory of available properties, it is definitely a good time to buy.  Also, when all of the people who got caught up in the recent mortgage-driven mess are ready to get back into the market, there will be more competition for properties, which makes an even better case for someone to buy now, rather than wait.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

Now, there’s a tough question to answer.  That’s like having to decide which of your children you like the best.  As a rule, and I don’t know if this is unique to me or if it’s the same for most other long-time Realtors, I just don’t seem to rank my listings in that way.  I see each of them in the way that a buyer, for whom that house might suit the best, might see them.

We do have a great listing right now, however, that would not only be a favorite for any buyer looking for a condo with great views, but for whom the sellers also happen to be long-time readers of this magazine. I would be happy to tell you about this great listing in Carlton Tower, which is located at 3000 East Sunrise Boulevard. This is a a great condo! A tastefully updated 2BR/2BA with stunning ocean and park views from every room.  A spacious master bedroom includes a walk-in closet, and the updated baths feature river rock and glass tile counters.  It includes an in-unit washer/dryer and garage parking.  It’s one of the few buildings in that area where the beach, dining, and shopping are all just yards away!

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

Please visit gayleborden.com or call the office at (954) 525-3355.

Chris Riss

Which real estate company do you work for?

I’m with Castelli Real Estate Services, located at 2227 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors, across from Alibi.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I have been a realtor for 12 years.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

I specialize in selling residential properties (single family homes, townhouses and condos) in the Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale, and Oakland Park areas.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

Yes, the market is good for buying a home right now. After two years of prices jumping about 25% each year, 2014 saw the pace of appreciation healthily decelerate and the number of available properties increase, nudging a strong seller’s market into one more favorable for buyers.

There’s quality properties available for sale in most areas, but that changes day by day as properties sell. The areas I suggest for gay buyers looking for value and faster appreciation are just north, northwest and south of Wilton Manors where prices are generally lower and gays continue to buy, renovate and improve the neighborhoods.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

There’s two renovated condos I have listed which are great values and ideal for the gay second home buyer looking for minimal maintenance, convenience and security. They’re both in gated communities that are less than a half-mile to Wilton Manors and are well under $100K.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

Prospective buyers or sellers are welcome to contact me at ChrisRiss@CastelliHomes.com or 954-540-7621.

Howard Elfman

Which real estate company do you work for?

I am the broker/owner of Weichert Realtors – Best Beach.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I’ve been working as a realtor since 2000.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

I specialize in luxury homes and condos in Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors and Oakland Park.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

Yes. Interest rates are still low and prices are stable. All of the areas I serve are pretty consistent in terms of quality.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

There’s a three-bedroom, three-and-a-half bath home in Harbor Beach Extension. It is a quiet beachside neighborhood with an active community and the home is move-in ready with upgrades and a large open floor plan.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

Just call, e-mail or text me. My number is (954) 568-1117 and my e-mail is howardelfman@weichert.com.

Steve Visano

Which real estate company do you work for?

I am with Castelli Real Estate Services on Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors, the top gay owned and operated real estate company in Fort Lauderdale. I am half of the VK Visano Krukowski Team with Ken Krukowski.

How long have you been working as a realtor?  

We’ve both been full time realtors for over 20 years, starting in Chicago and here in South Florida for over 10 years now.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?  

We’ve chosen to specialize in Wilton Manors, Oakland Park and northeast Fort Lauderdale, including Poinsettia Heights, Victoria Park and Lakeridge. We’d rather know our service area very well than be spread out too far. We both list and represent buyers of single family homes, condos and townhomes.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

The market is good in general right now for home buyers. There’s a good supply of homes on the market in all price ranges and conditions, from dated fixer-uppers to fully remodeled move-in ready houses. The top condition remodels still bring in top dollar prices, but if you can see past some remodeling there are great “diamonds in the rough: out there. Most buyers will chose the home that ‘grabs’ them even if it’s not in the exact location they’d targeted to start with.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

I have a property coming soon that I’m VERY excited about. It is a 2000 square foot, 3 bedroom/2 bath “Mid-Century/Contemporary” pool home with a vaulted living room and huge open kitchen in Wilton Manors. But what will set it apart from the rest is that there’s also a new concrete roof, impact windows, a private dedicated office and a very large true master suite with a separate dressing room and luxury master bath. It will be in the high $500’s when it’s completed.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing? 

Anyone interested in more information can call me at (954) 802-4140, Ken at (954) 790-7595, or visit us online at FortLauderdaleAgent.com.

Aaron Burke

Which real estate company do you work for?

I work for Castelli Real Estate in Wilton Manors.

How long have you been working as a realtor?  

I’ve worked as a realtor in South Florida for nine years. In that time I’ve seen a lot of great changes to this area!

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?  

I primarily sell single-family homes and condos in East Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, Poinsettia Heights, and Victoria Park.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

Yes. There are many turn key properties that tend to attract people in our area. Now that it’s high season, this is the best time for sellers to come out as well, so they can list their properties and sell at their full potential.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

I currently have a 2/2 listed at Essex Towers (Las Olas and the Intracoastal), on the 15th floor.  Talk about views, location and quality of life! This can be tough to find at the right price. You can’t go wrong with this building. I believe in the product so much that I’ve lived here for eight years!

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing? 

If you’re looking to buy or sell, give me a call or e-mail me! My number is (954) 632-0344 and my e-mail is Floridappm@aol.com.

Carl Marzola

Which real estate company do you work for? 

Atlantic Properties International, Inc.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

Seems like it’s been since birth, but I’ve done realty for 42 years.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

Luxury residential and commercial properties, covering Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, the Palm Beaches and everywhere else in between.

Is the market good for buying a home right now?

It’s a perfect time to buy! It’s a great market and there are lower interest rates, which makes purchasing real estate a great investment as opposed to renting.  We had a banner sales year in 2014 and expect 2015 to be even better.

Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

I think you have to have an open mind when you view property for its potential. You need to look beyond the obvious. I personally like emerging markets, not just the established areas.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most?

Properties are selling in record time; it seems before the ink is dry, there’s an offer pending.  I’m about to list an outstanding home in Bermuda Riviera, just a short walk to the beach.

What is special about it that you like?

It’s an ideal residence that has all the bells and whistles when it comes to Florida living, utilizing not only the inside space but the wonderful entertainment areas outside.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

In the real estate industry you MUST be easily accessible to your clients and customers, so I’m just a phone call or a click away! (954) 564-8182, atlantic-props.com

Richard Chong

Which real estate company do you work for?

Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Florida 1st

How long have you been working as a realtor? 

I’ve been working in real estate for five years.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities? 

Primarily residential real estate, in all of South Florida.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

The South Florida real estate market is very active and there are still some great opportunities for buyers.  Wilton Manors, for example, is currently one of the “hot” neighborhoods in South Florida so there is a lot of competition among buyers, especially if the property is of good quality and reasonably priced.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

I will be listing two duplexes and one triplex very soon which are located just outside of Wilton Manors in Fort Lauderdale.  These properties are great for someone looking to buy property where they can live in one part and rent out the rest and generate income.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing? 

Anyone interested in these or any other properties should feel free to contact me at (954) 815-3390 or by email at chongrich@aol.com.

Jay Kenney

Which real estate company do you work for?

I am founder of my own real estate entity, the South Florida Property Team, in alliance with Keller Williams Realty.

How long have you been working as a realtor? 

I am relatively new to real estate, having relocated full-time to Fort Lauderdale last spring. I have had a place in Fort Lauderdale since 2010. Prior to relocating here full-time, I worked in New York City for more than 25 years in the corporate world where I was a Managing Director and Senior Vice President perfecting my skills in marketing, finance, negotiation, sales and client service.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities? 

I specialize in new construction luxury condo developments, single family homes, condos and townhouses. I cover markets from Palm Beach to Miami with particular interest in select neighborhoods in Fort Lauderdale including Wilton Manors, Poinsettia Heights, Coral Ridge, Victoria Park, the Isles and Fort Lauderdale Beach.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

I believe it is a very good time to invest in real estate in South Florida with interest rates as low as they are. Rates have only way to go and are expected to rise this year so now is the time to buy. Also, prices are still well below the bubble conditions of the mid-2000s so homes can be purchased for less even in markets such as Miami where home prices have increased 30% since 2011.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

The best deals in my view include new construction condos in Fort Lauderdale where the cost per square foot is well below $1,000. Similar developments in Miami, South Beach, Sunny Isles and Bal Harbour are being marketed at up to $2,000 per square foot.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing? 

People can contact me via my website at sfpropertyteam.com or directly on my cell at (954) 547-9483.

Kenny Silverman

Which real estate company do you work for?

RE/MAX Preferred on Wilton Drive in Wilton Manors.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I’ve been in the real estate business for over 20 years.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

I focus on residential properties, such as houses, condos, and townhomes, in Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, Coral Heights, Harbor Beach, and East Fort Lauderdale.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

The market is fantastic for buying a home right now. The best homes right now are being sold in Wilton Manors and Coral Heights.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

It’s in Harbor Beach (1819 SE 17th St.) and it’s a penthouse unit. The reason why I like it is because it has beautiful views of the city, and it’s close to the beach, the port, and the airports. Also, it’s a full service building.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

They can go to my website, silvermanfirst.com, or they can call me to set up a walk-through. My number is (954) 551-9099.

Frank Vigliotti

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I have been a realtor here in South Florida since 2005. Henri Vezie, my business partner, has been working as a realtor since 1999.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

I sell residential and commercial properties, specializing in Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, Oakland Park and Miami Beach (South Beach).

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

The market is heating up. Florida was one of the first states to be affected by the mortgage meltdown in 2007. As the recovery continues, it appears Florida is one of the first to recover from the down real estate market. It is a great time to buy real estate. The prices are affordable and we are finding that sellers are prepared to sell.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

I like all of my listings. There is just one that is better than another. They all have unique features, and for each of them there is a buyer.

We have a gorgeous luxury single family home in South Beach listed at $1,250,000 and a two-bedroom condominium in Oakland Park for $82,888. Each of these are sellable and have a specific buyer. We have a gorgeous Georgian-style home in the heart of Wilton Manors at 124 NE 21st Court. This home is absolutely gorgeous. Stunning amenities. $899,000. We have a single family home in Poinsettia Heights, an extremely “hot” neighborhood for 2015. This home has a gorgeous backyard with Jacuzzi spa heated pool. All updated, like-new finishes. Only $499,000.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

Call, text or e-mail the Henri Frank Group, (954) 604-9999 or info@henrifrank.com. We are always available.

Rosy Baron

Which real estate company do you work for?

I am broker/owner of Gibson Real Estate Services in Wilton Manors. I was a former RE/MAX agent for 10 years.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I have been a realtor for 11 years now.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

We specialize in residential single-family homes, condos and investment properties. We work with a lot of investors to purchase and sell primarily in Fort Lauderdale. We also offer property management services to clients. We focus on Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, and Oakland Park. However, we have helped clients in many other locations through South Florida.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

The market is great right now. Interest rates are low and there are many great buys. However, buyers are more cautious of what they purchase and they are looking for properties that are going to hold their value for longer. Wilton Manors is always sought after as well as other areas and neighborhoods like Victoria Park, Coral Ridge and Coral Heights.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

I like all of my listings and clients, they are all special and unique in their own way. Out of all of them, I have this very exceptional property in Fort Lauderdale that is half a block in size and it has a “Key West” feel to it. Every time I am there, I feel like I am in a little paradise.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

Please visit our website, gibsongroupsells.com, or call me at (954) 592-4120.

Brian Longstreth

Which real estate company do you work for?

I am the broker/owner of Your Neighborhood Realty, Inc. in St. Petersburg.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I was licensed in 1992, and I started Your Neighborhood Realty in 1999.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

We sell and manage a wide variety of single family homes, condos, and commercial space in Southern Pinellas County including St. Petersburg, Gulfport and all the beaches. We also handle property management and rentals. A majority of the homes have been sold in the historic neighborhoods (and LGBT firendly) surrounding downtown St. Petersburg.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

The supply of listings seems to be tightening up and prices are expected to continue a steady climb, as downtown St. Petersburg continues to thrive, the neighborhoods surrounding downtown continue to offer good long-term investment. Historic Kenwood, where our office is located, continues to draw many LGBT residents along with the friendly Grand Central District.

Some of the best opportunities are in up-and-coming neighborhoods nearby such as Palmetto Park (just south of Historic Kenwood and Grand Central), and Central Oak Park Neighborhood in the center of the City. Gulfport continues to also show strong potential.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

One of my favorite homes in 23 years of real estate is my current listing in Historic Roser Park, a charming 1919 Craftsman Bungalow on a bluff overlooking Booker Creek. The neighborhood and this home are so unique, filled with character and great energy.

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

People can visit our website, sellstpete.com, or they can contact me directly at (727) 365-0544.

Jeff Earley

Which real estate company do you work for?

I work for Sarasota Premier Properties.

How long have you been working as a realtor?

I’ve been a licensed realtor since 2005.

What kinds of properties do you specialize in selling and in which cities?

I specialize in residential, but have dabbled in rental and commercial properties. Even though my office is based in Sarasota, my license allows me to work with buyers and sellers  throughout the state of Florida.  I work with a business partner so it makes it easier for us to focus on certain areas. Our area of expertise is all of Sarasota County, Manatee County, Hillsborough County, Pinellas County and now Orange County.  As of right now I’ve personally been focusing on downtown Orlando, such as Thornton Park and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Is the market good for buying a home right now? Is it easier to find quality properties for sale in some areas as opposed to others?

The market is great for buying a home. Interest rates are still at their lowest, prices are climbing but not as high as they were during the boom of 2004-2006, foreclosures and short sales are still hitting the market, and there are excellent programs for first-time buyers, vets, and investors.

One of the best areas in Florida for homes is in Lakewood Ranch, where property values continue to increase daily. In my opinion, North Port gives you more for your buck. Even Sarasota has certain little neighborhoods that are going through a resurgence. As for Orlando, the downtown area is a city of its own, with urban flair, but with a hometown feel.

Which listing do you have that’s on the market right now that you like the most? What is special about it that you like?

I’m in the process of listing several homes in the next few weeks from North Port, Punta Gorda, and Parrish. Ask me about all of these!

If people are interested, how can they arrange for a viewing?

They can call me to discuss listings and to set up an appointment. (941) 504-4190.