Today I had to deal with our local County Commission. They wanted a mandatory ordinance for home inspections of foreclosed and abandoned homes. Their intentions were good, but their knowledge of the real estate industry was lacking and as a result they did not understand the great lengths we take as REALTORS to advise and educate our prospective purchasers and sellers. Disclose Disclose and Disclose is our mantra. I can't force a buyer of seller to do something but I make sure their are informed regarding the typical code violations the Commission is wishing to eliminate.

Tomorrow I start working with the stakeholders on a re-draft of the ordinance. This time it will be REALTOR friendly and not include the kitchen sink as did the last proposed ordinance. Naples can be a great place to live providing our local government does not muck it up.

#1 Took my son to the store today so he can go camping. We needed to find him a sweatshirt in case it gets cold in North Georgia. Here in South Florida there probably won't need one until next fall. The question was "Can I find a sweatshirt in Naples in the middle of June". We started at KMart. I found the store fairly busy which was nice considering it was a great day to be outside on the boat, in the pool, or on the golf course. I found a several sweatshirts, all adult sizes large and extra large. Price $19.95. Color was black with Golden Gate Titans embroided on it. We decided to check out Walmart. It was very busy too and it also had sweatshirts. Selection was just a bit better, but again only in adult sizes. Found a medium, the item was on clearance, and we ended our search. The trip confirmed what I had been telling others for several months, that our retail market was gaining strength. The stores that are the busiest are the ones that sell the basics. Home Depot was jammin last weekend when I picked up some salt for the pool. Publix had all the registers open today. It's just a matter of time before the rest of the retail market stablizes.

Two weeks ago I leased a space on 5th Avenue to an upscale art and gift boutique. The building adjacent to it already leased the two empty units. My conversation with the art tenant echoed her optimism for the upcoming season. As the financial markets stablize, so will our upscale retail markets.

I've heard some of the naysayers stating the market has changed and it will be harder to find tenants. One of the good things from this recession is those inquiring about available space are generally retailers. Priot to the turn in the market, a number of inquiries came from financial institutions, real estate related business, and other non retail users. There's nothing wrong with any of the uses, other than they do not belong in a retail shopping district, at least not a large proportion of them. A great retail shopping district is made mostly of retailers and related businesses. Throw in some cultural or historic sites, some great food venues, and you have the recipe for attracting shoppers.

I have two 1000 square foot units available. There are also other good locations left on the street, but if this summer is like previous leasing seasons on 5th Ave. S., then the majority of space will be re-let by October. For information on my location or others on the street, check out my website www.poteetproperties.com