DECEMBER 2009 Newsletter from The Henning Team Ted and Anne Henning--  Real Estate Professionals Julie Cerach--Sales Assistant     Barb Whalen--Rental Assistant       National Real Estate’s Pending Sales Index has risen for the ninth month in a row. The index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed, increased 3.7% last month. The index is now at its highest level since March of 2006. Pending Sales in the South increased 5.4%, which is 31.6% above a year ago. According to MOVE.com, one in 20 Americans plan to buy a home within the next year. The reason being the “move up” and “first time” tax credits offered, increased consumer spending for a second month and the Federal Reserve indicating they will keep record low interest rates (now at 4.78%) for an “extended period”.       In Florida, existing home sales rose 33% in the 3rd quarter while condo sales rose 37% as compared to the 3rd quarter of 2008. This is the 5th quarter in a row of increases and the 14th consecutive month of year to date comparative increases. The Bergstrom Center at the University of Florida indicates that their survey of economists reflects the recession is over in Florida. In addition, they predict the favorable exchange rate against the dollar will encourage international trade. However, the Florida Consumer Confidence Index fell 3 points last month due primarily to the lingering employment issues and their perception of the economy over the next year as well as 5 years hence. Yet, the personal income segment of the index rose, not only because of rates and tax advantages, but also because of the stock market stability to withstand a rally.       In Naples and Marco Island, the city of Naples experienced another month of high rates of Pending sales – although it fell off slightly from the prior month. Marco Island also held its own on Pending sales. Even Naples Lakes CC saw a continuing pattern of sales in November. All of these indicators lead up to a projected successful season in Real Estate – locally, statewide and nationally. We are back!!!       On a very sad and personal note, Naples Lakes CC lost a most revered and treasured friend in Don Schultz, who passed away after losing his battle with cancer on November 21st. Don played a significant role in the implementation of improvements here in NLCC, and his involvement, wisdom and friendship will be missed immensely. His passing also is a great loss to Olympia Fields Country Club where he was a very dominant force in their success and lately a leader in obtaining another US Open for that club. Our heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with his wonderful wife, Rosie, and their family.       Our Website Click on (www.naplesgolf-marcobeach.com) to view all the great Naples Lakes properties. We currently have an array of multi-family and single family homes available. In addition to reflecting our listings on Marco and in Naples, local websites and Realtor.com expanded listings, we just added another 31 sites to gain even more exposure. Remember the Naples Lakes Country Club listings are updated every Sunday morning and the website has been revamped to make it more user friendly. If you need assistance or have any questions, please give us a call at 239-793-6493. In advance of the upcoming holiday season, we want to wish everyone a most joyous and memorable CHRISTmas and may the New Year bring much success and good health.