Gulf Coast Realtors typically get calls from people that start like this; "I'm thinking about buying a condo and I'd like to check some prices". Most of the calls are from people who have acquired their knowledge of condos from friends or family members. They think ; 1) it's a great investment, 2) we want to retire  and live at the beach someday, 3) we have some money in savings and  want a second home for our family, or 4) we would like to create a tax shelter that also provides the opportunity for our family to enjoy.

    All of these are great thoughts, but most people I talk with have done little or no planning about the purchase. They have the vision of a carefree time of playing on the beach with their kids/grandkids or reclining in a lounger

Water damage is top of mind with most people lately due to Superstorm Sandy's flooding of the homes in New York and New Jersey.  Most of us in Florida equate water damage from flooding caused by tidal surges or rainwater runoff as a result of hurricanes. A flood is generally described as rising water due to overflow of inland or tidal waters or unusual repid accumulation or runoff of surface water from any source. Homes in our area within designated flood zones are typically required to maintain federally funded flood insurance by our lenders. These flood policies average around $600 and cover building and contents.  Even if you don't live in a flood area, it may be wise to buy a flood policy.  I'm sure some of the folks living in the Northeast