Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in AD 37, Roman Senate annuls Tiberius' will and proclaims Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus (Caligula = Little Boots) emperor. He was assassinated only 4 years later in AD 41.

On this day in 1662, the first public bus service begins, promoted by Blaise Pascal, operates in Paris as the "Carosses à Cinq Sous" until 1675.

On this day in 1892, Lord Stanley presents silver challenge cup for hockey (Stanley Cup).

On this day in 1940, Benito Mussolini and Adolf Hitler meet at Brenner Pass, where the Italian dictator agrees to join Germany's impending war effort in the west.

On this day in 1965, A truck loses control down Moosic Street, Scranton, Pennsylvania, killing the driver. This accident later inspired the 1974 Harry Chapin song, "30,000 Pounds of Bananas."

On this day in 1997, Ben & Jerry's introduce the philanthropic flavor "Phish Food" in conjunction with American jam band Phish at the Flynn Theatre in Burlington, Vermont; some proceeds from the chocolate ice cream with marshmallows, caramel and fish-shaped fudge. are donated to the band's charitable Water Wheel Foundation.

On this day in 2020, Turing Award given to Pixar employees Pat Hanraha and Edwin Catmull for three-dimensional computer graphics.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. If you can, try to help someone who was impacted by the recent hurricanes, there is still an incredible need out there. It will make them happy and will do a lot more for yourself.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

De Gaulle is recognized as a hero of France for a reason.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1837, Grover Cleveland, 22nd and 24th US President (1885-89, 1893-97), born in Caldwell, New Jersey. Yes non-consecutive terms has been done before.

Born this day in 1844, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, Russian composer (Scheherazade;Flight of the Bumblebee), born in Tikhvin, Russia (d. 1908).

Born this day in 1858, Rudolf Diesel, French-born German engineer who invented the diesel engine, born in Paris.

Born this day in 1877, Clem Hill, Australian cricket batsman and captain (49 Tests, 7 x 100, HS 191; South Australia CA), born in Adelaide, Australia (d. 1945). And there is this week's cricket mention.

Born this day in 1950, John Hartman, American rock drummer (Doobie Brothers, 1970–79 & 1987–92 - "China Grove"), born in Falls Church, Virginia (d. 2022).

Born this day in 1963, Vanessa Williams, American singer, actress and 1st African American Miss America (1983), born in The Bronx, New York.

Born this day in 1972, Reince Priebus [Rheinhold Priebus], American lawyer and political operative who was Donald Trump's Chief of Staff (Jan-Jul 2017), born in Dover, New Jersey. He had a whole lot to do with the GOP plan to get the current President elected.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1425 BC, Thutmose III, Pharaoh of Egypt, dies (according to the Low Chronology of the 18th Dynasty).

On this day in 1789, Benjamin Banneker and Pierre Charles L'Enfant begin to lay out Washington, D.C.

On this day in 1892, 1st public basketball game (Springfield, Massachusetts).

On this day in 1941, FDR signs Lend-Lease Bill, allowing US to provide material support to Great Britain's war effort in return for future use of land for US military bases in England.

This day in 1964, Gene Roddenberry  brings together a 16-page pitch for the original Star Trek series.

On this day in 2006, Michelle Bachelet is inaugurated as the first female president of Chile.

On this day in 2024, a fertilizer spill in Red Oak, Iowa, kills an estimated 789,000 fish along a 60-mile stretch of river after valve was left open at NEW Cooperative.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1731, Robert Treat Paine, American judge and Founding Father (signed US Declaration of Independence), born in Boston, Massachusetts (d. 1814).

Born this day in 1870, Arthur E Ochse, South African cricket batsman (2 Tests; Transvaal), born in Graaff-Reinet, South Africa (d. 1918).

Born this day in 1895, Shemp Howard, American actor and comedian (3 Stooges), born in Brooklyn, New York. (d. 1955).

Born this day in 1926, Ralph Abernathy, American (Southern Christian Leadership Conference), born in Linden, Alabama.

Born this day in 1952, Douglas Adams, English author (Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy), born in Cambridge, England.

Born this day in 1961, Ken [Kenneth Sean Carson], American model & boyfriend of Barbie, born in El Segundo, California. Now you know.

Born this day in 1982, Thora Birch, American actress (American Beauty, Ghost World), born in Los Angeles, California

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Single Family Condo/Townhouse/Villa Market Overview in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco Counties

Today we are breaking a cardinal rule in presenting data to an audience. There is far too much information on the above table for someone to glean much info at a quick glance. That's why we usually condense our updates to charts.

The middle column, mostly in red, shows the monthly supply of properties in the three counties for a range of prices from below $200,000 to above $3,000,000. Notice that the key at the bottom of the chart has three colors, green (seller's Market), Yellow (Balanced Market) and red, (Buyer's Market). For the condo/townhouse/villa market the only price range that shows us a balanced market is between $700,000 up to $1,000,000. All the other price points are clearly in the buyer's market range, which means that in January the market expected properties to be on the market for 7+ months.

For the entire category, 54.5% of listings failed to sell. This does not mean they were still on the market at the end of January, it means the listings were either cancelled or expired and no longer on the market.

We also see that 55.2% had pricee reductions and that of those with price reductions, the median sales price was 84.2% of the original list price and sold in a median of 155 days. Those that sold without price reductions,(correctly priced) sold in a median of 18 days and sold for 97.5% of original list price.

This data relates to the condo/townhouse/villa market and not single family homes. The single family home market is somewhat stronger. "High" mortgage rates, (compared to the once in a lifetime lows of 2-4% in 2022-2023) are having a negative effect on the real estate market. One thing that is clear from the table above, if a property is correctly priced, it will sell for very close to the list price and with far less time on the market than properties that are priced above what the market will bear.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 468, St. Simplicius is elected to succeed Pope Hilarius. I just had to use this for the names.

On this day in 1634, 1st tavern in Boston (Mass) opens (Samuel Cole). No, it was not Cheers.

On this day in 1821, American tailor and inventor Thomas L. Jennings (30) receives US patent for his "dry-scouring" process. the forerunner of today’s modern dry-cleaning. For all of you paying $10 to get your $60 shirt dry cleaned for the fifth time, it's his fault.

On this day in 1936, Clarrie Grimmett ends his Test career with 13 wkts in 5th Test v South Africa. Must be cricket..

On this day in 1956, Elvis Presley's 1st hit in Billboard's top 10: "Heartbreak Hotel". This could be a good trivia question in a bar.

On this day in 1992, US President George H.W. Bush apologizes for raising taxes after pledging not to.

On this day in 2004, Belgian brewer Interbrew and Brazilian rival AmBev agreed to merge in a $11.2 billion deal forming InBev, the world's largest brewer. I don't know, was this good for beer brewing overall??

On this day in 2018, "The Emoji Movie" named worst film in 2017 in Razzies awards

That's It for This Week.

Sometimes you just feel like you want to do something different and start over.

Today's Happy Birthdays

A little different this week, we'll check in on dead people.

On this day in 1333 Władysław I Łokietek (Ladislaw the Short), King of Poland, 1320-33, dies at about 74 [born c. 1260].

On this day in 1703, John Wesley, English Christian theologian and co-founder of the Methodist movement, dies at 87.

On this day in 1879, John Eberhard Faber, German-American pencil manufacturer and built 1st large-scale pencil factory in US, dies at 56.

On this day in 1885, D. H. Lawrence, English poet and writer (Lady Chatterley's Lover), dies of tuberculosis at 44.

On this day in 1957, Harry E Soref, inventor (padlock), dies at 70..

On this day in 1977, Eugénie Brazier, French chef who was the 1st woman to earn 3 Michelin stars (1933), and the 1st person earn 3 Michelin stars for 2 restaurants, dies at 81. Who said that women can't cook.

On this day in 1992, Sandy Dennis, American Tony and Academy Award-winning stage and screen actress (Any Wednesday; Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolfe?; The Out-of-Towners), dies of ovarian cancer at 54.

On this day in 2022, Autherine Lucy, American educator and 1st African-American to enroll in University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa, dies at 92.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Comparing Real Estate Sales from January 2024 through January 2025

The chart above, with the data extracted from our Stellar Multiple Listing Service, shows active listings and sales of residential properties in Pinellas County, FL from January 2024 thru January 2025. The dark bars represent the number of active listings in each month and as you can see, the trend is upward. In January 2024 there were 5486 single family residences listed for sale. In that same month, with the orange bars representing sold properties, there were 975 residential properties sold.

Fast forward to January 2025, there were 7213 properties listed for sale and 1092 properties sold in the same month. There were some fluctuations along the way, however the trend is pretty clear.

Over the year, the number of active listings has increased in Pinellas County by 32% and the number of sales has increased by about 12%. If you do the arithmetic comparing listings to sales, as we've covered multiple times in past updates, the supply of homes in January 2024 was about 5.6 months, meaning if every home in the market sold, and no other homes were added, it would take 5.6 months to sell everything. Looking at January 2025, the supply of homes is now up to 6.6 months. In March of 2022, the supply of homes for sale was two weeks. Think about that. There was very little competition and sellers had almost no reason to negotiate at all.

Or another way to look at it, based on the rate or sales and the active listings available, it is taking 16% longer to sell a home now than a year ago. Factors that involve the pace of sales include location, mortgage interest rates, the competition at various price points (typically lower priced properties sell quicker), and buyers' perceptions of the market. If there are two houses in a given area priced similarly, the specific features and benefits of one over the other will determine which sells quicker. If there a many houses in the same area with similar prices, the ones that will sell quicker, in addition to features and benefits, are the ones with the seller most willing to negotiate. And this very often means who is going to offer the best value for the buyers' money.

In any competitive market, with any similar product, whether it be houses, cars, or a gallon of milk, the best price/value is going to be the winner. Just food for thought today.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1541, Santiago, Chile founded by Pedro de Valvidia (or 2/12).

On this day in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII announces the New Style calendar, commonly known as the Gregorian calendar. Say goodbye to the Julian calendar.

This day in 1803, US Supreme Court 1st rules a law unconstitutional (Marbury v Madison). This is important enough to explain instead of asking you to look it up.

"Marbury v. Madison" (1803) was a landmark Supreme Court case where the court established the power of judicial review, meaning it can declare laws passed by Congress unconstitutional, by ruling that a law allowing a man named William Marbury to sue for his commission as a judge was invalid because it conflicted with the Constitution; this decision significantly strengthened the judiciary's role in the American government system.

This day in 1906, Tomas Estrada Palma defeats Jose Gomez in the election for president of Cuba, but Gomez and his followers refuse to accept results and sponsor an uprising.

This day in 1980,  US ice hockey team clinches gold medal with 4-2 win over Finland at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics; comes after 4-3 "Miracle on Ice" victory against hot favorite Soviet Union.

And finally, on this day in 2020, New York firefighter Daniel Foley, who found his brother's body in ruins of World Trade Center, dies of cancer bringing first responders death toll to 343.

That's It for This Week.

Charles de Gaulle seems to have hit the nail on the head with this observation.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1697,  Bernard Siegfried Albinus [Weiss], German surgeon and anatomist (1st to link vascular system with the fetus), born in Frankfurt (d. 1770).

Born this day in 1723,  John Burgoyne, British general (surrendered at Saratoga during the American Revolutionary War), born in Sutton, England (d. 1792). If you think you recall this name, this is why, from high school history.

Born this day in 1786, Wilhelm Grimm, German story teller ( Grimm's Fairy Tales), born in Hanau, Hesse-Cassel, Holy Roman Empire. Without these wonderful flights of fancy we would not have "Hansel and Gretel", "Rapunzel", "Cinderella" and many more stories. No, Disney did not originally do "Cinderella".

Born this day in 1885, Chester Nimitz, a true patriot, American admiral, who commanded the US Pacific fleet in World War II, born in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Born this day in 1910, Arthur Hazlerigg, British peer and cricketer (d. 2002).

Born this day in 1947, Edward James Olmos,  American actor  (Miami Vice, Stand & Deliver, Triumph), born in Los Angeles, California.

Born this day in 1955, Steve Jobs, American computer entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple, born in San Francisco, California. A most consequential man.

Born this day in 1977, Floyd Mayweather,  American boxer (5 x weight division world champion; record 26 consecutive wins in world title fights (10 by KO; undefeated record 50-0), born in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Real Estate Update for This Week

Loyalty, what is it worth to you?

This week we are going away from geeky numbers and talking about reality in the real estate world. Relationships are simply invaluable. The above chart was in an article from an international real estate expert, Mike DelPrete. He reports that fully 30% of all mortgage lenders are found as a result of a real estate agent's referral. The next highest number of lenders are found via existing relationships with a lender. In fact, more than 55% of lenders for buyers are found through real estate agent referrals or existing relationships with a lender.

Curiously, this applies to real estate agents, as long as the agent has continued to build the relationship with existing sellers or buyers. It is beyond important to establish and maintain good relationships with existing customers. This develops a strong business bond and very often develops into a friendship based on trust.

Finding a real estate agent to handle such an important investment is a challenge, and if someone has had a good experience in the past with a real estate agent, and/or a lender, it is always smart to go back to that individual for repeat business. When a seller or buyer uses a trusted real estate agent, they already know that agent will do a good job and take care of them.

The same goes for a lender. Real estate agents and lenders are always glad to work for a former customer, or a new customer who is referred by a trusted source.

Of course, if you disagree, you can always choose a lender or real estate agent based on a clever ad. Then you get to start from scratch to build a relationship of respect and trust. And hope that along the way they do a good job for you.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1621, Myles Standish is elected as the first commander of the Plymouth Colony.

On this day in 1776,  1st volume of Edward Gibbon's seminal work "The Decline and Fall of Roman Empire" published.

On this day in 1876, sardines first canned by Julius Wolff in Eastport, Maine. Some people celebrate this feat, some not so much.

In one of the most significant steps in modern civilization, on this day in 1883,  Arthur Ashwell patents 'vacant/engaged' toilet lock in London, England.

This day in 1973, US National Security Adviser Henry Kissinger   meets Chinese leader Mao Zedong, where the latter jokingly offers to send 10 million Chinese women to the United States. Imagine, a world leader making a tasteless joke.

On this day in 1976, Richard Hadlee takes 7-23 New Zealand v India, his 1st match-winning spell. Please, someone versed in cricket tell me what this means.

On this day in 2021, Texan senator Ted Cruz flies to Cancun, Mexico with his family amid a winter disaster in his state, igniting widespread condemnation.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it especially now.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1781, René Laënnec, French physician who invented the stethoscope, born in Quimper, France (d. 1826).

Born this day in 1844, Aaron Montgomery Ward, American retailer, founded mail-order business (Montgomery Ward), born in Chatham, New Jersey (d. 1913).

Born this day in 1867, William Cadbury, British chocolate manufacturer (Cadbury), born in Edgbaston, England (d. 1957).

Born this day in 1936, Jim Brown, American College-Pro Football HOF running back (Syracuse University; Cleveland Browns - NFL Rookie of the Year 1957; NFL MVP 1957, 58, 65; 8 x First-team All-Pro; 9 x Pro Bowl), actor (The Dirty Dozen; ...tick...tick...tick...), and civil rights activist, born in St. Simons, Georgia.

Born this day in 1962, Lou Diamond Phillips, Filipino American actor (La Bamba, Stand & Deliver), born at Subic Bay Naval Station, Philippines.

Born this day in 1972, Billie Joe Armstrong, American singer and musician (Green Day - "Basket Case"; "American Idiot"), born in Oakland, California.

Born this day in 1991, Ed Sheeran, English singer-songwriter and guitarist ("Shape of You"; "Thinking Out Loud"; "Perfect"), born in Halifax, England.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

A Little Bit About the Single Family Homes Market

This chart should make all of you numbers geeks very happy. If you are not a numbers geek, might be better to move along to the fun stuff below.

The left columns show data from December 2024 compared to January 2025. There is a 50.4% increase in new listings and a 10.4% increase in total active listings. That is all well and good. Now look at the number of closed sales in the same time frame and we see a decrease of 28.1% in closed sales. Drop down one more row and we see a 56.7% increase in the supply in months. This means that from December of 2024 to January of 2025, it has gone from a median number of 50 days on market in December 2024 to 49 days in January 2025. One last item, a big one, before we move to the columns on the right, the median sale price for single family homes dropped 4.0% from December 2024 to January 2025.

Now we can shift over to the right. From January of 2024 (a year ago) to January of 2025 there was an 18.8% increase in new listings, and an increase of 37% for total active listings. In January 2025 we see an increased number of closed sales up by 3.9% compared to January 2024. So we are comparing apples to apples, in January 2024 (a year ago) the median number of days to contract was 38 and it went up to 49 for January 2025 (a full year later). The sort of good news is that sale prices in January 2025 were only 0.5% lower than the previous January 2024. For people smarter than me, a sale price that is lower a year later, plus the factor of inflation for that year, does that mean the sale price really went down a lot more?

Since we are doing numbers and not a lot of fascinatingly exciting stuff, let's look at the number of listings that failed, that is they did not sell. Comparing January 2024 to January 2025, the number of failed listings went up by 6.1%. There are lots of reasons a listing does not sell, family circumstances change, job status could change, a seller could simply change his mind, but the most common reason a listing does not sell is because it is priced too high.

The above data was extracted from the Stellar MLS by Chart Master Services, LLC.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 822, U Cit Tok', pretender to the throne of the Maya city of Copán assumes control of the city (as inscribed on Altar L).

On this day in 1794, Joseph Haydn's 99th Symphony in E premieres, in London, England.

This day in 1855, US citizenship laws amended; all children of US parents born abroad granted US citizenship.

This day in 1940, First "Tom and Jerry" cartoon "Puss Gets the Boot" is created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera and released in theaters by MGM,

On this day in1989, Test Cricket debut of Aaqib Javed, Pak v NZ age 16 years 189 days,

This day in 2021, Astronomers confirm the planetoid named Farfarout as the most distant orbiting the Sun, almost four times more distant than Pluto.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. Do something for democracy, in Florida make it a point to remember to request your mail in ballot for the next election so you don't have to stand in a long line just to cast a vote.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

This little thought is from George Bernard Shaw.

Just think about this.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1609, John Suckling, English Cavalier poet, dramatist and courtier (invented cribbage), born in London, England (d. 1641). Cribbage is a fine game.

Born this day in 1890, Boris Pasternak, Russian novelist and poet (Doctor Zhivago, Nobel 1958), born in Moscow, Russia.

Born this day in 1893, Jimmy Durante, American vaudeville, radio, and screen actor, comedian (The Durante-Moore Show; Frosty The Snowman), piano player, and singer ("Inka Dinka Doo"; "Make Someone Happy"), sometimes known as "the schnozzola", born in Manhattan, New York.

Born this day in 1906, Lon Chaney Jr [Creighton Tull Chaney], American actor (Of Mice and Men; The Wolf Man), born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (d. 1973). Horror movies wouldn't be the same without him.

Born this day in 1927, Leontyne Price, American opera soprano (Porgy and Bess; Aida; Metropolitan Opera. 1961-85), born in Laurel, Mississippi. She is celebrating her 98th birthday today.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 98, Trajan becomes Roman Emperor after the death of Nerva, who died of a stroke. Not all emperors get lucky enough to die of natural causes.

This day in 661, The 4th Caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, Ali ibn Abu Talib is struck on the head while praying at the Great Mosque of Kufa, Mesopotamia by a poison-coated sword wielded by Ibn Muljam a Kharijite, dies two days later. See Nerva, above.

This day in 1926, Physicist Erwin Schrodinger publishes his theory of wave mechanics and presents what becomes known as the Schrödinger equation in quantum mechanics. Go ahead and look it up.

On this day in 1945, Soviet troops liberate Auschwitz and Birkenau Concentration Camps in Poland - now commemorated as International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

On this day in 1973, the Paris Peace Accords signed by US Secretary of State William P. Rogers, (North) Vietnam Minister for Foreign Affairs Nguyen Duy Trinh, Republic of South Vietnam Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyễn Thị Bình, and Republic of Vietnam Minister for Foreign Affairs Trần Văn Lắm, ending America's then longest war and it's military draft.

Here's this week's cricket reference. This day in 2018 Rashid Khan is bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL.

On this day in 2024, the world's largest cruise ship Icon of the Seas, able to house 7,600 passengers, at 365 meters (1,198 ft) 5x larger than the Titanic, sets sail from Miami on its maiden voyage.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. If you can, try to help someone who was impacted by the recent hurricanes, there is still an incredible need out there. It will make them happy and will do a lot more for yourself.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

The ignorant can be educated, given the opportunity. False knowledge is knowingly gained.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1756, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Austrian musical prodigy and composer  (The Marriage of Figaro; Jupiter Symphony), born in Salzburg, Austria.

Born this day in 1832, Lewis Carroll, English author (Alice in Wonderland), born in Daresbury, England.

Born this day in 1850, Edward Smith, English naval captain of the RMS Titanic, born in Hanley, Staffordshire.

Born this day in 1885, Jerome Kern, American Broadway and film composer (Showboat; Roberta), born in New York City.

Born this day in 1886, Frank Nitti [Francesco Nitto], Italian-American gangster, born in Angri, Campania, Kingdom of Italy (d. 1943).

Born this day in 1900, Hyman G. Rickover, US Admiral (father of modern nuclear navy, at 63 years the longest serving US naval officer), born in Maków Mazowiecki, Congress Poland (d. 1986).

Born this day in 1942,Tasuku Honjo, Japanese immunologist (Nobel Prize for medicine 2018), born in Kyoto, Japan.

Born this day in 1976, Jeremy Hansen, Canadian astronaut (Artemis II), born in London, Ontario.

Born this day in 1980, Wang Yaping, Chinese taikonaut and China's 1st female spacewalker (Shenzhou 10 and 13), born in Yantai prefecture, Shandong, China.

Born this day in 2014, Like Nastya. Go ahead and look her up. Then recall what you were doing when you were 11.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1522, Head Inquisitor Adrian Florisz Boeyens is elected pope. Not a great day for the Church.

On this day in 1793, Louis XVI of France is executed by guillotine in Paris, following his conviction for "high treason" by the newly created French Parliament (Convention nationale), during the French Revolution. This proves that the winner gets to make the rules.

On this day in 1880, 1st US sewage disposal system separate from storm drains in Memphis, Tennessee.

This day in 1915, Kiwanis International founded in Detroit. The world became just a bit better.

This day in 1924, Vladimir Lenin's testament is handed over to the Communist Party; it calls for changes to the Soviet governing structure and criticizes Joseph Stalin, Leon Trotsky and other members. Too bad the Communist Party didn't heed the warning about Stalin.

On this day in 1948, three of the greats of cricket make their debut in a drawn 1st Test match at Bridgetown, Barbados; Sir Clyde Walcott and Sir Everton Weekes for the West Indies, and Jim Laker for England.

On this day in 1990, John McEnroe becomes the first player to be expelled from the Australian Open. You've got to be kidding me!!

This day in 2021, Avril Haines is sworn in as the first female US Director of National Intelligence by VP Kamala Harris.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1743, John Fitch, American inventor (had a working steamboat years before Fulton), born in Windsor, Connecticut (d. 1798).

Born this day in 1869, Grigori Rasputin, Russian monk and confidant of Russian Tsar Nicholas II, born in Pokrovskoye, Sibera, Russian Empire.

Born this day in 1905, Christian Dior, French (fashion designer) (New Look), born in Granville, France.

Born this day in 1924, Benny Hill [Alfred Hawthorn Hill], British comedian (The Benny Hill Show), born in Southampton, Hampshire, England (d. 1992).

Born this day in 1940, Jack Nicklaus, American golfer (18 major titles, 73 PGA Tour titles), born in Columbus, Ohio.

Born this day in 1981, Andy Lee [Lee Sun-ho], Korean K-pop singer (Shinhwa), and actor, born in Seoul, South Korea.

Born this day in 1984, 1984 Luke Grimes, American actor (Yellowstone), born in Dayton, Ohio

Born this day in 2007, Luke Littler, English darts player (PDC World C'ship 2024; youngest PDC World Champion [17 years and 347 days]), born in Runcorn, England.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 888, Odo (Eudes), Count of Paris, succeeds Charles III the Fat to become King of West Francia (888-898).

On this day in 1888, The National Geographic Society is founded in Washington, D.C. for "the increase and diffusion of geographic knowledge".

On this day in 1911, South Africa cricket team's 1st win over Australia, at Adelaide.

On this day in 1923, taking advantage of the chaotic condition of Germany, Hitler stages a demonstration of 5000 storm troopers and denounces the 'November crime'.

On this day in 1962, Chubby Checker's song "The Twist", credited with starting the Twist dance craze, goes to #1 in the charts two years after first reaching number one spot.

On this day in 1987, Seven top New York City Mafia bosses sentenced to 100 years in prison each. Ah New York, home to felons and the Sopranos.

On this day in 2019, Lionel Messi scores for FC Barcelona in 3-0 win over Eibar, his 400th goal in La Liga; becomes first player to reach mark in just one of Europe's top 5 leagues; Cristiano Ronaldo had 409 in Spain, England & Italy.

Finally, in an historic first, on this day in 2021, President Donald Trump is impeached by the US House of Representatives voting 232-197, for “incitement of insurrection”, first time in history a US President is impeached twice.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. Do something for democracy, register to vote, and when election time rolls around, go out and VOTE.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

If you are really in touch with reality, are you stressed out? Or is it possible you have no connection with reality if you aren't.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1381, Saint Colette of Corbie, French abbess and reformer (Poor Clares), born in Corbie, County of Amiens, Duchy of Burgundy (d. 1447).

Born this day in 1885, Alfred Fuller, Canadian-American businessman ('Fuller Brush Man'), born in Welsford, Canada (d. 1973).

Born this day in 1926, Michael Bond, English writer and children's author (Paddington Bear), born in Newbury, England.

Born this day in 1930, Frances Sternhagen, American Tony Award-winning stage and screen character actress (The Mist; Starting Over; Cheers - "Ester Clavin"; Outland; Sex and the City - "Bunny"), born in Washington, D.C. (d. 2023).

Born this day in 1955, Fred White, American drummer (Earth Wind & Fire, 1974-84 - "Shining Star"; "September"), born in Chicago, Illinois (d. 2023).

Born this day in 1961, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, American comedienne and actress (Elaine Benes-Seinfeld, SNL, Veep), born in New York City.

Born this day in 1973, Nikolai Khabibulin, Russian ice hockey goalie (Olympic gold 1992, bronze 2002; Stanley Cup 2004 TB Lightning; NHL All-Star 1998, 99, 2002, 03; Winnipeg Jets/Phoenix Coyotes, Chicago Blackhawks), born in Yekaterinburg, Russia. Lightning fans remember him well.

And finally, born this day in 1999, Nasa Hataoka, Japanese golfer (Women's PGA C'ship 2018 runner-up), born in Ibaraki, Japan.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Comparing Real Estate for November 2023 vs. November 2024

The above slide has a whole lot of information on it. We are expanding this week to include the greater Tampa Bay are for real estate sales, with data gleaned from the Stellar MLS by ChartMaster Service. For November 2024 there were 3,668 new listings for single family homes, an increase of 7.2%. Our inventory of active listings, 9,473, is a 24.3% increase over November 2023.

The number of houses under contract in November 2024 was 3,573, an increase of 3.4% over November 2023. Now it gets a bit more interesting, in that the number of sold properties in November 2024 was 2,329 - down 8.4%. See where this is going, inventory up, sales down?

The bottom two images are also very interesting. When priced correctly, the median outcome (sale price) is 99.7% or the original list price AND the total days on market, or DOM, is 11. When the house is overpriced, according to what the market will bear, the median sale price is 90.7% of the original list price AND the DOM is 92 days. That is 81 more days on the market, which is more money spent carrying the house, insuring it, heating or cooling it, maintaining it and especially having potential buyers parading through it.

And one last point, the number of FAILED lisitngs, those that expire, was 36.6% in November 2024. That is an increase of 13.4% over November 2023. Put all this together and we see a picture of a real estate market that is softening and shifting to a neutral market after several years of a strong sellers market.

The moral of the story is, if you plan to sell your house, price it accordingly and don't start out at the top of the market. The market will determine the correct price and if the price is too high at the outset, it will takes months instead of days to sell.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1494 the first Mass in the New World is celebrated at La Isabela, Hispaniola.

On this day in 1873 US Congress begins investigating the Credit Mobilier scandal, a fraud by the Union Pacific Railroad and Crédit Mobilier of America in the construction of the first transcontinental railroad. Crooks have taken advantage of the "system" since the beginning of history.

On this day in 1925, Mussolini forms a cabinet composed entirely of Fascists in Italy. Didn't turn out so well after a while.

On this day in 1930, Australian cricket icon Don Bradman scores 452 not out for New South Wales v Queensland in Sydney; then world record individual score in a first-class match; runs scored in 415 minutes. What is a "not out"?

On this day in 1975,  "Wheel Of Fortune" debuts on NBC-TV, a cultural landmark!

Finally, this cannot be ignored, on this day in 2021, supporters of US President Donald Trump storm the United States Capitol in Washington DC during the congressional certification of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris's election win, resulting in five deaths and prompting evacuation of lawmakers and Vice President Mike Pence. 

That's It for This Week.

Sometimes a surprise is the best thing to happen in your day.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1655, Jakob Bernoulli, Swiss mathematician, born in Basel, Switzerland (d. 1705).

Born this day in 1878  Carl Sandburg, American poet and biographer of Lincoln (The People, Yes), born in Galesburg, Illinois (d. 1967).

Born this day in 1883, Khalil Gibran, Lebanese-American poet (The Prophet; Broken Wings; Sand and Foam), painter, and philosopher, born in Bsharri, Mount Lebanon, Ottoman Syria (d. 1931).

Born this day in 1912, Danny Thomas, American actor, comedian and TV host,(Danny Thomas Show), born in Deerfield, Michigan.

Born this day in 1924, Earl Scruggs, American bluegrass banjo player (Flatt & Scruggs - "Foggy Mountain Breakdown"; "Ballad of Jed Clampett"), born in Flint Hill, North Carolina (d. 2012).

"Born" this day in 1945, Pepé Le Pew, Warner Bros. cartoon character created by Chuck Jones and Michael Maltese (Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series), first debuts in "Odor-able Kitty".

Born this day in 1964, Yuri [Yuridia Valenzuela], Mexican pop, ranchera, and gospel singer ("Hola"), actress, and television personality (Objetivo Fama), born in Veracruz, Mexico.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

CHRISTMAS TRIVIA

1. 3 billion Christmas cards are sent in the U.S. each year.
2. Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850.
3. It takes about 15 years to grow the average Christmas tree.
4. Alabama was the first state to officially recognize Christmas in 1836. Oklahoma was the last, in 1907.
5. Santa Claus is based on a real person: St. Nikolas of Myra. He is the patron saint of banking, pawn broking, sailing, orphans and New York City.
6. President Teddy Roosevelt, an environmentalist, banned Christmas trees from the White House in 1901.
7. Approximately 35 million living Christmas trees are sold each year in the U.S.; more than 45 million are planted.
8. Holiday purchases account for one sixth of all yearly retail sales in the U.S.
9. “White Christmas” by Irving Berlin is the best-selling single record of all time, with over 100 million sales, worldwide.
10. All the gifts in the Twelve Days of Christmas would equal 364 gifts.

HANNUKAH TRIVIA

1. In 2024 Hannukah starts on Christmas Day.
2. Hanukkah candles are lit from right to left.
3. The dreidel was used as a decoy after the Torah was outlawed.

HANUKKAH TRIVA

4 Gift-giving is NOT a long standing Hanukkah tradition.

5 Shamash, the first candle used to light the other candles on the Menorah.

6 The original Menorah had 7 candles, not 8 like today's Menorah.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Real Estate Update for This Week

The above chart has sooo much information on it. We will only hit the highlights for you. On the right side of the chart we see summaries of sold listings AND failed listings. Across the bottom row are totals for each individual price range. What is worth noticing is that 20.5% of listings in Pinellas County sold above list price and yet in the same month 50.8% of all listings in Pinellas County had the list price reduced.

Digging a bit deeper, we see that for single family houses that did NOT have a price reduction, the median sale price to original list price was 98.6% of the original list, while if there was a price reduction, the median sales price to original list price was 87.0% of the original list price.

Keep moving across this row and we see that the median number of days on market (from list date to contract) was 9 compared to 99 days on market when a price reduction was needed. That is more than ten times the time on market when a house was priced incorrectly.

Finally, In Pinellas County, the bottom right number says a lot. Nearly 40% of listings in Pinellas County FAILED to sell, either because the listing expired or was cancelled. In almost all cases, a failed listing is due to being priced too high. Of course there are other reasons, it's just that price is usually the common denominator in a failed listing.

We will continue to monitor the market, especially in Pinellas County. We probably have yet to get a clear picture of how Hurricanes Helene and Milton will impact our market for the coming year.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1431, King Henry VI of England aged seven is crowned King of France at Notre Dame, Paris (only English monarch to wear both crowns).

On this day in 1631, Mount Vesuvius in Italy erupts, burying many villages under lava flows and killing around 3,000 people.

This day in 1922, NSW all out for 786 against South Australia Cricket. Whatever this means.

On this day in 1968 Musical-fantasy film "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang", co-written by Roald Dahl and director Ken Hughes, starring Dick Van Dyke and Sally Ann Howes, with songs by Sherman and Sherman, premieres at the Odeon Leicester Square theater, London.

On this day in 2020, 14 people found guilty of 2015 terror attacks on Charlie Hebdo office and supermarket in Paris.

Finally, on this day in 2019, Mariah Carey's single "All I Want For Christmas Is You" reaches No. 1, 25 years after release. Have you heard it often enough this Christmas season??

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it especially now.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

Today's Happy Birthdays

On this day in 1485, Catherine of Aragon, Spanish princess, 1st wife of Henry VIII, queen  of England (1509-33), born in Madrid, Spain.

Born this day in 1775, Jane Austen, English novelist (Pride and Prejudice), born in Steventon, England.

Born this day in 1901, Margaret Mead, American anthropologist (Coming of Age in Samoa, Thoughts & Female), born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Born this day in 1945, 1945 Bobby George, English darts player (BDO World C'ship 1980, 84 runner-up), born in Manor Park, Essex, England. Wonder if he could beat Ted Lasso??

Born this day in 1968, Wendy Doolan, Australian golfer (Evian Masters 2004), born in Sydney, New South Wales.

Born this day in 1969, Adam Reiss, American astrophysicist (2011 Nobel Prize for Physics for discovery of the accelerating expansion of the Universe), born in Washington D.C.

Born this day in 1993, Jyoti Amge, Indian actress and world's shortest woman, born in Nagpur, India

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Real Estate Update on Something Called the 4-Point Inspection.

The above slide shows one of the most important items in the real estate transaction, the 4-point inspection. Once a home is under contract there are a series of steps to do before the sale is finalized and the 4-point is critical. In most cases, if a house is failed on this inspection the buyer cannot get homeowner insurance, and the seller cannot sell it. Thus, it is a good idea for the seller to make the necessary repairs to address the 4-point inspection and make it come up to acceptance.

The parts of the 4-point are the roof, electrical, plumbing and HVAC. If the roof leaks, it must be fixed. If the roof has less than 5 years of life, almost for sure it must be replaced.

The electrical system has many parts to look for, espcailly double tap breakers, unacceptable breaker panels (listed above), and aluminum wiring. Problems with any of these almost certainly mean a failed inspection.

Plumbing: if it leaks, fix it. Old water heaters (more than 14 years) usually are not acceptable. On demand water heaters are great and can be more than 14 years old. A fairly new issue is PEX water lines. Insurance companies don't like PEX because it is prone to leaking.

HVAC, basically, the air conditioning system has to be working. There can't be leaks in the system. In most cases, if the air conditioning is working peoperlyi at inspection, it will be acceptable.

Homeowners often are unaware of issues uncovered with the 4-point and negative results are as much as a surprise to the owner as anyone. Thus, as a homeowner who is thinking of selling your home, check out your critical systems. It might even be worth it to invest in your own 4-point inspection to uncover problems in advance. Good maintenance may cost some money. A failed inspection can cost a sale, or at least thousands of dollars for rushed repairs.

Thank you to Brightway Insurance in Safety Harbor for this slide.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day ain 730, Battle of Marj Ardabil, Turkic Khazar army led by Barjik defeats Umayyad force, with 20,000 killed including general al-Jarrah ibn Abdallah, whose head is mounted on a throne. There is nothing civilized about war.

On this day in 1793, Noah Webster establishes New York's 1st daily newspaper, the "American Minerva".

This day in 1936, in cricket, England embarrasses Australia in the 1st Test in Brisbane; home side all out for 58 as England wins by 322 runs; Don Bradman out for a duck (0).

This day in 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas", the first Peanuts animated special premieres on CBS in the US.

On this day in 2015, Amazon's best-selling book of the year is "Girl on a Train" by Paula Hawkins.

This day in 2021, More than 40 camels disqualified from the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival beauty contest after Botox injections and other cosmetic enhancements were discovered. Please say it ain't so!!!!

This day in 2023, Japanese baseball two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani signs a North American pro-sports record 10-year $700m deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

That's It for This Week.

Keep your problems to yourself!!

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1447, Chenghua, Emperor of China, born in Beijing, China (d. 1487).

Born this day in 1608, every high school student's best friend, John Milton, English poet and puritan (Paradise Lost), born in London, England.

Born this day in 1886, Clarence Birdseye, American inventor and founder of the modern frozen food industry (Birdseye), born in Brooklyn, New York.

Born this day in 1902, Margaret Hamilton, American character actress (The Wizard of Oz), born in Cleveland, Ohio. What role did she play??? Anyone??

Born this day in 1946, Dennis Dunaway, American rock bassist and songwriter (Alice Cooper - "School's Out"), born in Cottage Grove, Oregon.

Born this day in 1953, John Malkovich, American actor (The Killing Fields; Dangerous Liaisons), born in Christopher, Illinois.

Born this day in 1980, Simon Helberg, American actor (The Big Bang Theory), born in Los Angeles, California.

And finally, born this day in 2340, Worf, Fictional Klingon character in Star Trek Next Generation.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

This day in 1409, The University of Leipzig opens. Take that Harvard, such a youngster founded in 1626.

This day in 1804, General Napoleon Bonaparte is crowned Emperor of the French at the Notre Dame de Paris in a ceremony officiated by Pope Pius VII.

This day in 1901, American businessman King C. Gillette begins selling safety razor blades. And styptic pencil sales must have plummeted immdeiately thereafter.

On this day in 1932, Australia ends Day 1 of controversial 'Bodyline' cricket series v England at 290/6 in Sydney; Stan McCabe 127no (finishes at 187no); notorious England fast bowler Harold Larwood takes 4 wickets; England wins by 10 wickets.

ON this day in 1948, after one of the best seasons in baseball history, St Louis Cardinals utility Stan Musial is named NL MVP; leads NL in batting average (.365), runs (135), RBI (131), hits (230), doubles (46), triples (18) & slugging (.702), with 39 HRs. Let's see one of today's superstars match this.

On this day in 1982, 1st permanent artificial heart successfully implanted (U of Utah) in retired dentist Barney Clark; lived 112 days with Jarvic-7 heart.

On this day in 2023, American rock band KISS concludes farewell "End of the Road" tour at Madison Square Garden, NYC; the encore is performed by the premiere of digital avatars of the group.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. If you can, try to help someone who was impacted by the recent hurricanes. It will make them happy and will do a lot more for yourself.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

Am I suffering from making the past seem better than is really was, or is the recent crop of Congress really as bad as Mark Twain would say it is?

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1863, Charles Ringling, American circus owner (Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus), born in McGregor, Iowa (d. 1926).

Born this day in 1906, Peter Carl Goldmark, Hungarian-American engineer (developed the 33-1/3 rpm LP phonograph record format), born in Budapest, Austria-Hungary.

Born this day in 1923, a diva among divas, Maria Callas, American-Greek soprano (Carmen), born in Manhattan, New York City.

Born this day in 1946, Gianni Versace, Italian fashion designer (Versace), born in Reggio Calabria, Italy.

Born this day in 1960, Deb Haaland, American politician (1st Native American to head a cabinet agency as Secretary of the Interior 2021-), born in Winslow, Arizona.

Born this day in 1981, Britney Spears, American popstar ("Baby One More Time"; "Oops! ...I Did It Again"; "I'm A Slave 4 U"), born in McComb, Mississippi.

Born this day in 1984, Maryna Viazovska, Ukrainian mathematician (Fields Medal 2022, work on densest way to pack spheres in eight dimensions), born in Kyiv, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union. Go ahead and explain that to me!

Born this day in 1992, Gary Sánchez, Dominican baseball catcher (MLB All Star 2017, 19; NY Yankees), born in Santo Domingo, Distrito Nacional, Dominican Republic.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

No comment needed.

Your Real Estate Update for This Week

The chart above shows the months supply of homes for sale in Pinellas County from May 2022 through October 2024. In May of 2022, there was only a 2 week supply of homes for sale in Pinellas County. This means that if no new listings came to market it would only take 2 weeks to sell everything currently available. The next several months showed a steady increase in inventory, then by March of 2023 we have another low inventory month. That March had a 3.7 month supply of homes to sell.

Since March of 2023 we see a steady rise of inventory to this October 2024, we see a high of 5.7 months supply, meaning if no more new listings come to market, it will take 5.7 months to sell all the houses currently for sale.

Well, let's talk very simplistically about the Law of Supply and Demand. As the supply increases, prices should go down. Just not in real estate. In May of 2022, the median sale price of a house in Pinellas County was $373,280. Bear in mind that there was only 2 weeks of inventory to sell then. Now, with 5.7 months of inventory, or over 24 weeks of inventory, the median price of a house in Pinellas County is up to $435,500. Or, we have had a12 fold increase in the supply of homes to sell, and still have a roughly 16% increase in the sale price for Pinellas County homes.

Bottom line, the market is shifting to a neutral market so it will take a little longer to sell houses and there may be more negotiating than there has been for quite a while. After Thanksgiving we just might talk a bit about slowing price appreciation, although prices seem to continue to go up, just not at a double digit rate.

Happy Thanksgiving to ALL

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1034, Malcolm II, King of Scots (Máel Coluim mac Cináeda) (b. 980) dies; Donnchad, the son of his second daughter Bethóc and Crínán of Dunkeld, inherits the throne. Quite a challenge to say those names.

This day in 1867, US Congress commission looks into "impeachment" of President Andrew Johnson.

This day in 1920 saw the 1st Thanksgiving Parade (Philadelphia).

This day in 1949 Gene Autry's single "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer" appears on music charts; songwriter Johnny Marks adapted poem written by his brother-in-law Robert L. May for Montgomery Ward department stores.

This day in 1960, three of the four Mirabal sisters, opponents of the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo of the Dominican Republic, are assassinated. Never a smart thing to go against a dictator.

This day in 2020, The New York Times names its "25 Greatest Actors of the 21st Century (so far)", with Denzel Washington at No. 1.

And finally, on this day in 2020, Caitlin Clark makes her collegiate debut for the Iowa Hawkeyes, recording 27 points, eight rebounds, and four assists against Northern Iowa. Even if you don't follow sports you may have heard of Ms. Clark.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. Do something for democracy, register to vote, and when election time rolls around, go out and VOTE.

Go ahead, commit more than one act of kindness this week. A whole lot of people need just a little kindness now.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

Remember to be thankful for what you have this week. We are coming out of a truly challenging few weeks in the greater Tampa Bay area and so many have shown so much kindness for those who lost so much. That is Thanksgiving.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1566, John Heminges, English actor and member of The Kings Men, editor of Shakespeare's First Folio, born in Droitwich, Worcestershire (d. 1630) (baptism date).

Born this day in 1787, Franz Xaver Gruber, Austrian organist and composer (Silent Night), born in Hochberg, Austria (d. 1863). Bet you didn't know that.

Born this day in 1844, Karl Benz, German invenetor, engine designer and automobile manufacturer (Mercedes-Benz), born in Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg.

Born this day in 1909, Manny Martindale, West Indian cricket fast bowler (10 Tests, 37 wickets; Barbados), born in St Lucy, Barbados (d. 1972).

Born this day in 1914, Joe DiMaggio, American Baseball Hall of Fame center fielder (13 × MLB All-Star; 9 x World Series; 3 x AL MVP; MLB record 56-game hitting streak; NY Yankees), born in Martinez, California. And Marilyn Monroe's ex-husband.

Born this day in 1940, Joe Gibbs, American Pro Football HOF coach (Super Bowl 1982, 87, 91 Washington Redskins; NFL Coach  of the Year 1982, 83) and auto race team owner (5 × NASCAR Cup Series), born in Mocksville, North Carolina.

And finally, born this day in 1983, Joey Chestnut, American champion competitive eater. I'd hate to host him for Thanksgiving dinner.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Real Estate Sales Trends in Pinellas County, Florida

The chart above packs in a whole lot of information. Essentially, it shows what the effect of having to reduce the price on a listed property versus having the property correctly priced at the start.

The data is pulled directly from the Stellar MLS transactions for Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties for the third quarter of 2024, ending in August. The properties are condos, townhouses and villas in these three counties.

The red bars represent properties with no price reductions that sold and the gray bars represent properties that had at least one price reduction before selling. As one can see, in every price class, from below $200,000 to those priced and sold for more than $2,000,000, the sales price for properties with no price reductions (red bar) was higher than the sold price for those properties that had price reductions. Simply put, when a property is priced properly (accepetable to the market place) is will sell. If a property is priced in order to "leave room to negotiate", it will sell for less than the original list price.

One item worthy of pointing out is that if a property is listed at $XXX and there is little to no response from the market place after a week or two, and the price is reduced quickly, the final sale price will be much closer to the original list price than if the seller waits for weeks or months before reducing the price.

Another benefit to correct pricing is the time on market. For the three counties the hard data tells us that in each price range, properties priced correctly, thru the third quarter of 2024, sold much more quickly than properties that needed price reductions. The median time on market to sell properties priced correctly for all price ranges is 5 days. The median time on market for all properties, including those needing price reductions, is 54 days.

This means going under contract in about a week, then going about the business of packing up, getting paid and moving on weeks before the over-priced priced properties are even under contract. Conversely, for the seller in the over-priced property, it means carrying the property and all its costs plus the inconvenience of being an active listing for almost an extra two months.

No matter what the market, seller's or buyer's market, when a property is priced right, it will sell and do so quickly. The data support this.

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1620, the Maylower Compact is signed by Pilgrims at Cape Cod, establishing the first framework of government in the territory that is now the USA.

On this day in 1807, George Washington Irving's Salmagundi periodical is published, first to associate the name "Gotham" with New York City.

This day in 1911, Russia issues an ultimatum to Persia and follows it with an invasion of North Persia to impose political control. We keep seeing this.

On this day in 1921, US President Warren G. Harging dedicates Tomb of Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery.

On this day in 1981, MLB Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela becomes first MLB rookie to win a Cy Young Award; Milwaukee Brewers' Rollie Fingers takes AL Award.

On this day in 1983, Australian cricket wicketkeeper/batsman Wayne Phillips scores 159 on Test debut vs Pakistan at WACA, Perth.

On this day in 2022, Cypto currency FTX, founded by Sam Bankman-Fried files for bankruptcy, amid accusations of financial mismanagement and criminal misconduct. Pretty sure we are NOT getting on the crypto-currency train for a while.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. Do something for democracy, register to vote, and when election time rolls around, go out and VOTE.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.



You know what's really scary? See that pumpkin pie above, it means that Christmas is only 27 days away. Just think on that for a bit.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1493, Paracelsus, Swiss physician and alchemist (Zinc, Laudanum), born in Einsiedeln, Switzerland.

Born this day in 1821, Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Russian novelist (Crime and Punishment, The Dream of a Ridiculous Man) who helped shape literary modernism and existentialism, born in Moscow, Russian Empire.

Born this day in 1885, George S. Patton, American WWII general (Sicily, Italy and Normandy) known as "Old Blood & Guts", born in San Gabriel, California.

Born this day in 1922, Kurt Vonnegut, American author (Slaughterhouse Five, Sirens of Titan), born in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Born this day in 1960, Stanley Tucci, American actor and director (Prizzi's Honor, The Devil Wears Prada), born in Peekskill, New York. Seems he also is a pretty good cook for Italian food.

Born this day in 1986, Jon Batiste, American jazz pianist, singer-songwriter, bandleader (Stay Human; The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, 2015-22), and film score composer (Soul), born in Metairie, Louisiana.

Born this day in 1994, Ellie Simmonds, British Paralympian swimmer, winner of five Olympic Gold medals, born in Glossop, England.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

This week's real estate update is not all doom and gloom, despite what Helene and Milton did. Yes, a lot of people suffered incredible damage and loss. However, life had to go on and there were sales in Pinellas County.

As the chart shows, the three months previous to the last 30 days, were decent sales. The last 30 days, however, showed a steep drop in sales. A whole lot of that can be directly attributed to the hurricanes that came through. Many neighborhoods were utterly destroyed by the flooding of the storm surge from Helene. Businesses were also destroyed. Power was lost to incredible numbers of areas. So it was expected that real estate sales would be affected, and they were. In many cases, closings have been delayed. In other situations, homes that were to be sold were simply wiped out by Helene.

Then the world began to reorganize and slowly return to normal and Milton came along to inflict even more damage on a wider area, again causing power outages, fallen trees (many fell from the wind that blew over trees sitting in water saturated soil), rooftops were blown away, and torrential rains caused flash flooding where no one had seen flooding before. And yet, the very best in almost everyone came shining through.

Strangers helping strangers, asking for nothing in return, people toiled for days moving storm debris, providing shelter (often for free), providing food and water, cleaning out water damaged homes, and so much more. Then came the power crews from up and down the east coast to get power back as quickly as possilble, while they left their families for long days. All our public resources were stretched to capacity and beyond, working impossibly hard to get us back to a sort of normalcy.

With all of that, some real estate business happened. And it will continue to happen. Some will say they are done and leave Florida, or at least coastal areas. Some will go to work, clean up and start over.

For those who came through these hurricanes with little to no damage, good for them. There will be for sale signs popping up on homes throughout the area, Title companies will be able to close sales. Lenders, especially now that interest rates are dropping, will be able to offer attractive mortgage rates. Contractors will work hard to help rebuild the area. Real estate agents will recover and be available to offer professional advice and support to those considering their next steps with real estate.

Hang in there, we are strong and will persevere!

Trivia for This Day in HIstory

On this day in 1066, for all you high school history students, Battle of Hastings: William, Duke of Normandy and his Norman army defeat the English forces of Harold II who is killed in the battle.

This day in 1322, Robert the Bruce of Scotland defeats King Edward II of England at Byland, forcing Edward to accept Scotland's independence.

This day in 1884, George Eastman patents paper strip photographic film. Does anyone even use film anymore, digital is so easy and detached.

This day in 1926, A. A. Milne's book "Winnie the Pooh" released. Children all over the world are better for it.

This day in 1933, Nazi Germany announces its withdrawal from the League of Nations. Chaos and unimaginable horror ensued in very few years.

This day in 1968, The Beatles finish recording their double album "The Beatles" more commonly known as "The White Album".

This day in 1982, US President Ronald Reagan  proclaims a war on drugs. So how's that going?

This day in 2018, Afghan batsman Hazratullah Zazai becomes only the 6th player in cricket history (3rd in T20) to hit 6-sixes in an over; scores 62 in 17 balls in Kabul Zwanan loss v Balkh Legends in Afghanistan Premier League. There's you weekly cricket reference.

That's It for This Week.

Go out and make it a great week. Do something for democracy, register to vote, and when election time rolls around, go out and VOTE.

Please, be sure to commit at least one random act of kindness. The whole world needs it especially now.

Remember, that but for the accident of birth, each of us could be in totally different circumstances.

Just because you make the most noise, doesn't make you right.

Today's Happy Birthdays

Born this day in 1420, Tomas de Torquemada, Castilian Grand Inquisitor during Spanish Inquisition, born in Torquemada (or Valladolid), Kingdom of Castile (d. 1498). Probably will never become a saint.

Born this day in 1801, Joseph Plateau, Belgian physicist (Plateau's Law), born in Brussels, Belgium (d. 1883). OK numbers nerds, click on this link.

Born this day in 1890, Dwight D Eisenhower, 34th US President, Republican (1953-61), and WWII army General, born in Denison, Texas.

Born this day in 1910, a truly decent human being, John Wooden, American basketball coach (UCLA-10 national championships), born in Hall, Indiana (d. 2010).

Born this day in 1938, John Dean, American attorney (White House counsel, 1970-73), Watergate prosecution witness, author, and political commentator, born in Akron, Ohio.

Born this day in 1974, Natalie Maines, American country musician (The Chicks, formerly known as Dixie Chicks), born in Lubbock, Texas.

Born this day in 1978, Usher, American singer (My Way, Confessions) and actor, born in Dallas, Texas.

Born this day in 1988,  Max Thieriot, American actor.

And finally, born this day in 1991, Sebastian Zawadzki, Polish jazz pianist, composer of concert and film music (Spirituality; Luminescence), born in Toruń, Poland.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.

Because Hurricane Helene wreaked so much damage, and we can anticipate that Hurricane Milton will do even more, here are a few things to consider, at least for real estate.

1. Do not make rash decisions.
2. If you had storm damage, be sure to contact your insurance company, FEMA and other pertinent resources.
3. Get the input from insurance, FEMA, appropriate county services, etc. to have as much information as possible before making major decisions about your property.
4. Avoid dealing wtih contractors or real estate agents who pressure you to hire them.
5. Confirm all contractors are licensed.
6. Be aware that investors may try to take advantage of property owners who have been devastated by these storms and be very deliberate in your decision making process.
7. Above all, BE SAFE.
8. As much as possible, consult with people who you know, trust, and who are expert in the area in which you need advice. You rneighbor may be a super nice person with limited knowledge in construction, storm recovery, real estate, etc. and might not give you the best advice.

We hope you are safe. Losing stuff is difficuclt, and most of the stuff can be replaced. People cannot be replaced.

Here's the legal stuff

Doug Campbell, CDPE

The Campbell Team at Keller Williams Realty

727-741-4189

[email protected]

Gwen Campbell

727-741-4744

[email protected]

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated

www.theCampbellTeam.kw.com

Fax:  888-447-7908



Please Be Aware: Online banking fraud is on the rise.  Please make sure to confirm all wiring instructions with a member of the Title Company closing your transaction before initiating any wire transfer.  This confirmation should be done by a telephone call and not an email. If you receive an email THAT APPEARS TO BE GENERATED from your escrow officer or assistant at any point CHANGING THE WIRE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE TITLE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY!   Also, note that you will never receive wiring instructions from me as your agent.

To unsubscribe please click here.