When animals are a common bond with other people, there is an “ah ha” moment. We understand the depth of what were capable of doing for the precious gift we’re given. I wonder what people who perhaps never had the chance to bond with a kitten, or a puppy think of us animal lovers “oohing and awhing” over a beloved pet.

Statistics show there are 44.8 million households in the US which have a dog; 38.4 million have cats. Those precentages are continually growing. The American Pet Product Manufacturers Association released its 2007-08 National Pet Owners Survey, finding that expenditures on pets in this country topped $40 billion in 2007. This phenomenon has lead me to ask how the decision to purchase a home is effected by the consideration of a pet. I know that when I’ve looked for homes, one of the first thoughts I’ve had concerned how pet friendly the home, or condo was. As a realtor and a  pet lover I’ve noticed restrictions on pets becoming commonplace. Are pets allowed? How many can you have? The most common restriction is the size of the pet. Are these restrictions really neccessary? Why should my neighbor really care if I have a pet, or for that matter, more than one? I think these questions should be asked. We may not appreciate the fact that not everyone has to love “fuffy”, but we have to recognize it. Knowing the covenants in a particular subdivision is important. Not being able to have your beloved companion because they may have fur, and four legs is something you don’t want to find out after you purchase that perfect home. Let me help first. If you’re relocating to Fort Lauderdale, or are considering a new home because your family is growing, then let me assist you in locating the home that fits you needs… all of them including “Fluffy”.

What is it about South Florida?

It has it all. South Florida is a world within itself. Although South Florida may be apart of the USA, it’s perceved around the world like it’s own country. There are expats from all over that call South Florida  home. It has the pulse of high energy and style that is so unique it has earned  recognition around the world. Miami is so well known it’s referred to simply as Miami, not Miami, Florida; as if someone may not know where it was.

South Florida is  diverse in culture, old world and new,warm weather and water, the high life and the quite. There’s sports you can participate in, and sports teams to watch. Watching the world go by in South Beach is a sport in itself; and  if you like boating  you’re in luck.

I came for the real estate too.

If timing has ever been on my side, its now. For the first time in a long time there are opportunities that haven’t existed. If you’re looking to relocate or just find that special place for a second home there is a place and a price for you.

South Beach, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale too. It’s like candy, sweet and so many choices to choose from. Just select what you like best, and there’s a place for you.

If you like it hot, and not just the weather, then head to South Beach with its sizzling crowds of the rich and famous. [

 Home of the beautiful people. I personally like Gloria Estefan . She’s the originial ambassador of Miami; helping put Miami back on the map of great places of the world. If you’re in South Beach and you want to experience the flavor that defines South Beach then head to her and her husband Emilio’s Cuban restaurant Lario’s. Dine alfresco but stay and have one of their Mojitos and the very hot Latin music. I’ve seen the band bring people to life, dancing on table tops, my husband one of them. When you’re dinning in South Beach don’t be surprised to see your favorite celebrity sitting several tables down. Madonna, Matt Damon, P Diddy just to name a few all call South Beach home.

The designers are here too. All of them, but then that’s another story in itself.

If you like a calmer version of South Beach, then head to Las Olas in Fort Lauderdale with it’s old world charm. I think of jazz when I stroll down Las Olas Boulevard lined with its art galleries and restaurants dotted by palm trees and old oaks.

Las Olas just held its annual food and wine festival. It’s been voted one of the 10 top annual Fort Lauderdale events. Something to mark on your Calendar if you didn’t make it this year.

What is it about South Florida that makes it so special? The people, the lifestyle? It’s impossible to nail it down. Perhaps that’s it, South Florida is impossible to hold down.