Kristen Rabell and Rebecca Johnson, REALTORS

Gainesville Events Feb 14th – March 2nd 2012 – Gainesville FL

GatorRealtors — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:22:02 +0000

There are plenty of things going on this weekend to keep you busy. Here are a few things worth checking out!

February 24th – 26^th – Winter Fine Art Fair at Tioga Town Center. Friday 6-9pm; Saturday 10am-6pm; and Sunday 10am-5pm. 100+ artists and live music.

February 25^th & 26^th - Haile Village Mardi Gras 5PM-11PM in the Haile Village Center (Free Event)

February 28^th – IHOPs National Pancake Day. Stop in the local IHOP for a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Customers are invited to make a donation to the Children’s Miracle Network.

March 1st- 28th Annual Rotary Wild Game Feast at 6pm. $60 per ticket. Located at Hatchet Creek on SR 26. Contact Rotary Club of Gainesville for tickets.

March 1st - Alachua County Youth Fair and Livestock Show at the Alachua County Fair Grounds (Free Event)

March 2^nd – HOPE ROCKS, Dystonia Sucks! A concert benefitting local charity, Tyler’s Hope at :08 on 201 W University Ave from 8pm-midnight. Featuring New Orlean’s Bag of Donuts and Gainesville’s Toothless Judy. $50 general admission, $100 VIP or sponsorship opportunities. Visit www.TylersHope.org

If you know of an event that we have missed email us at info@KristenAndRebecca.com with the details.

Kristen Rabell & Rebecca Johnson, REALTORS
Matchmaker Realty of Alachua County
Kristen: 352-213-6760 Website: www.KristenAndRebecca.com
Rebecca: 352-275-9900 Email: info@KristenAndRebecca.com

Foreclosures on the Courthouse Steps – Gainesville FL Real Estate

GatorRealtors — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 18:07:44 +0000

Yesterday, at 11am, Rebecca and I decided to finally visit the courthouse steps for our first indoctrination into foreclosure sales. Years ago, another agent we knew spun wonderful tales about how her grandmother bought her properties at the courthouse for merely pennies In fact, that was why she decided to get into Real Estate– to help her illustrious grandmother unload all of the rental properties she accumulated over the years. Kind of wicked at the expense of the poor foreclosed owner, but very brilliant indeed. However, she warned in her story, there was a price for this practice if you did not properly research and plan its execution.

Throughout my career, I have, time and again, had those newly hungry investment buyers who want to know the process or who ask me if I can represent them at the courthouse. Because I had yet to experience it, I’ve never felt comfortable conversing about the subject. So, after recently been asked again, I decided to go, Rebecca in tow, always ready to learn the new with me.

Our first step was to preview the properties up for auction in the upcoming days. Even though we were not bidding, we wanted to have an idea of what was up for sale. We looked on the Clerk of Court website under Foreclosure sales and found the next three days had about 8-10 auctions each day. We could easily pick one day and see enough activity at the 11am hour even if one or two cancelled. On the webpage, we read through the properties, recalling some from when they were on the market as resales and then short sales. Oddly enough, one of them was originally a listing of ours back in 2006 when the investment seller wanted to resell it for about $100k over what he paid the year before. We remembered watching it change hands to other agents before it went to short sale, listing as low as $50,000 in hopes of selling $100k less than what was still owed. We recognized many others from past showings and even making offers for our investment buyers. It was slightly shocking to see not only what they owed the bank–usually hundreds of thousands more than the current market value–but also how long they were waiting for the final foreclosure and the amount of back taxes, HOA fees and attorneys fees that were tacked on. These extra amounts are those trouble-makers we were first warned about. We were once told of a buyer who thought he knew the extra costs of the foreclosure he bought, only to find $10,000+ more in leins and taxes than expected. It pays to do your homework in this business.

When we arrived to the lobby of the Family/Civil Justice Center there were no steps in sight. Just a small lobby with brick flooring, about 5 others standing about or sitting in the chairs against the wall, and a desk that read “Judicial Sales Clerk of the Court”. As we waited, I took stock of the other bidders. There was another Realtor team we know with a check in hand and a plan of attack for no more than a $30,000 bid on a Windsor Park owing around $150,000; a stocky man with a check in hand for a bid no higher than $20,000 on a Countryside Condo owing over $164,000; an older man with a small spiral notepad; and a short man a beachy Hawaiian print polo, baggy khakis, flip flops, a large stack of manilla files, and a smart phone. As was predicted, one of these men represented the bank. As was unpredicted, it was the beach bum with the manilla files, representing the properties up for auction. This meant, we were told, the bidders had a 1% chance of winning their preferred property. Of the 7 of us, only 2 were bidders, other than the bank representative so the percentage of anyone other than the him procuring a property was about nil. We chanced it anyway and it was worth the visit.

We learned a few pointers at these courthouse sales:

1. There are no steps involved. It’s a lobby and lots of legal talk.

2. You don’t win when the bank representative shows up, which is just about always. Windsor Park sold for $31,000; Countryside sold for $21,000; a SE house sold for $9000, 3 properties were sold for $100.00 and 3 were cancelled. The beach bum bought them all.

3. If you do decide to try at bidding, bring a “good faith” deposit equal to 5% of the final bid.

4. 4 of 7 of the attendees were not bidding. You just can’t be nervous with that few actual bidders. The rest of us were spectators and the only reason we want to return is to finally see a day when someone does win. I presume our lives will change if we are able to experience it. For now, though, we are still the 99%.

Kristen

Giving Back in Gainesville – Gainesville Fl Real Estate

GatorRealtors — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:10:54 +0000

Click to view slideshow.Matchmaker Realty is unlike any place we have ever worked before. They do things because for the right reasons, in our opinion. They help the community because they really care about the local Gainesville/Alachua area. It never feels pretentious and calculated it always feels warm and from the heart. We absolutely LOVE that about Matchmaker Realty and Rosa Travis the broker.

Last night we helped out at the St Francis House in downtown Gainesville by donating and serving meals to the 35 residence living on the property. Matchmaker provided the main course and we, the other employees/realtors provided: milk, lemonade, juice, vegetables, and some banana cake.

Working there last night and meeting the families that are living there made us appreciate

even more everything that we have. Their stories and situations really made us reflect on our own lives and we look forward to helping out again.

Gainesville Events February 18th – 25th

GatorRealtors — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 13:58:30 +0000

Here are a few local happenings to help keep you entertained for the week.

February 22nd – National Margarita Day! http://www.margaritavillecargo.com/recipes.aspx

February 24^th & 25^th – Winter Fine Art Fair at Tioga Town Center (Free Event)

February 25^th & 26^th - Haile Village Mardi Gras 5PM-11PM in the Haile Village Center (Free Event)

Don’t forget the Florida Museum of Natural History opened its Cruisin’ the Fossil Freeway Dinosaur exhibit http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu

As always there are a few local farmers markets you can attend.

If we have missed an event or if you know an about an upcoming event that you would like to share please email us the details at info@kristenandrebecca.com

The Morning After – Gainesville Florida

GatorRealtors — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:35:53 +0000

Yesterday I noticed a lot of hate for the day of love. People called it a “Hallmark Holiday” and said “I celebrate Valentine’s day everyday”. I am just trying to understand all of the dislike and so in doing so I would like to share what I did, in addition to my job, on Valentine’s Day 2012.

Tuesday morning at the Johnson household normally consist of me and Eva heading out the door at 845 for our weekly Matchmaker Realty office meeting, the meeting was canceled today though due to most of the office being in Tallahassee. Eva is with me on Tuesday and Thursday due to Troy’s school schedule and me not willing to put her in full time care, since I work most weekends it makes me feel less guilty to know I care for her two full days a week (don’t judge)

So since we had the morning off…..

We baked a few cookies for the ones we love (friends, neighbors, co-workers, ect..) **Macy’s sells “kid size” rolling pins in the cooking section**

We went to our yard and picked a few flowers to create a small bouquet

We made homemade Valentine’s Day cards for Eva’s cousins and best friend Mason.

Then at the end of the day Eva and I whipped a taste meal for our little family and spent the evening read books, playing blocks, and just being a family.

Kristen and Mason spent the day together too doing sweet things for the ones they love.

I do agree that Valentine’s Day can become expensive, if you allow it, but I also KNOW that you can make the holiday more than chocolates, roses, and a Hallmark card.

Kristen Rabell & Rebecca Johnson, REALTORS
Matchmaker Realty of Alachua County
Kristen: 352-213-6760 Rebecca: 352-275-9900
Email: info@KristenAndRebecca.com Website: www.KristenAndRebecca.com

Gainesville Events February 11th – 16th

GatorRealtors — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:43:55 +0000

Looking for a something to do with the family this weekend? Check out these local Gainesville events.

February 10th-11th Sun Country Valentine’s Sleepover 6:30pm-9am with Gymnastics, Rock Climbing, Kidquest, Games, Movies, Snacks, Pizza, Breakfast and lots of fun! $35 for members in advance / $45 Non-Members in Advance $50 everyone at the door / Siblings Half Price . Visit SunCountrySports.com

February 11^th – 11^th Rotary Club Benefit Test & Tune for the Gatornationals. Gates open at 11am-4pm. Proceeds will go towards the Gainesville Fisher House Foundation.

February 11^{th -}Hot Rodding For Heroes Classic Auto Tour and Show
Starting at 11AM in the Haile Village Center. http://www.hotroddingforheroes.org
Phone: (352) 340-1040

February 14^th - Stroll Down Lover’s Lane in the Haile Village Center 6PM-10PM Live music, dancing, food, and carriage rides buy tickets on-line at: http://www.strolldownloverslane.com/

As always there are a few local farmers markets you can attend.

If we have missed an event or if you know an about an upcoming event that you would like to share please email us the details at info@kristenandrebecca.com

Gainesville, FL Area Pre-Schools

GatorRealtors — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:59:38 +0000

Here is a list of some non and religious-affiliated Gainesville , Fl area pre-schools to consider.

Most start as young as 2 years

*VPK means Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Please email or call for rates and availability, as well as, any extra class options.

Non-Religious Affiliations:

A Child’s Dream with Director Amanda Oster

4127 NW 34 St, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 376-8900

www.achildsdreampreschool.com

Infants – VPK Open 6:30AM – 6:00PM Full time; 5 half days a week or 3 full days a week. VPK: 9:00AM – 12:00Noon

Abacus Learning Center with Directors Sharon Jacobs and Allyson Chenery

Haile Village Center: 5205 SW 91st Drive, Gainesville, FL 32608 / (352) 376-1492

info@abacuslearningcenter.com

www.abacuslearningcenter.com

2 year olds, 3 year olds, and VPK Monday-Friday, 5 day program only.

The school is open 6:30AM to 6:00PM. 2 and 3 year olds classes meet 9:00AM to 2:00PM.

VPK meets 9-12 with special wrap-around rates till 2:00PM or 6:00PM available

The after-care / before care hours rate for those not enrolled in the full-time program is $5/ hour, accrued every 15 minutes.

No prior notice is necessary, and children may come early and stay late as needed.

Also offering Sun Country Gym Bus, Stretch and Grow, Wee Can Cook and Spanish Classes

Brentwood School with Directors Robert and Susan Schackow

1111 NW 55th St., Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 373-3222

info@gobrentwoodschool.com

www.gobrentwoodschool.com

Two year old classes through fifth grade The school is open 7:30AM – 5:30PM

Pre-School and Pre-K Classes: 9AM-12PM 2 Day (T/ Th); 3 Day (MWF) and 5 Day (M-F) programs available

Kindergarten: 9AM – 2 PM

1st-5th Grade: 9AM- 2:45 PM

Afterhours care is called PLAYGROUP. It begins as early as 7:30AM and as late as 5:30PM for an hourly charge that is billed monthly.

Also offering Specialists in Spanish, Physical Education, Music and Library for Age 2 through 5th Grade; Computer Classes begin in Kindergarten; and Studio Art begins in Grade One. Pre- K- 5th Grade

Education Station & Preschool with Directors Kristin D. Birdsey & Krista Frey

2411 NW 41st Street Gainesville, FL 32606 – (352) 335-0026

krista@educationstationandpreschool.com

kristin@educationstationandpreschool.com

www.educationstationandpreschool.com

Toddler Train: 12-36 month olds

Preschool Engine: 3 year olds

Kindergarten Express: 4 & 5 year olds Monday-Friday 6:30AM – 6:30PM

Part-Time scheduling is flexible

Also offering music and dance

Flowers Montessori with Director Bridget Fik

3111 NW 31st Ave, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 376-4700

flowers3111@bellsouth.net

www.flowersmontessori.com

Classes are mixed age groups from 2 ½ years old to 6 years old.

There are 2 classes: Under 4; and 4 and up. The children can go between both rooms.

The school is open from 7:30AM to 5:30 PM Monday-Friday, 5 Day Program only.

Half Day: 8:30AM – 11:30AM / Full Day: 8:30AM – 2:30PM

Open 7:30-8:30 Before School care is a free courtesy proved to all students.

After-School Adventure is available from 2:30-5:30 at the rate of $3.50/ hour

Also Offering Music, Dance, Yoga, French, Spanish, Sign Language

Gainesville Country Day School with Directors Nancy and Kelly Childers

2304 SW 75th Street, Gainesville, FL 32607 / (352) 332-9032

6801 SW 24th Ave, Gainesville, Fl 32607 / (352) 332-7783

www.gainesvillecountrydayschool.org

Pre-school for ages 2 ½ and up, VPK and Kindergarten – 5th grades

Preschool only: 2 Day (T/Th); 3 Day (MWF) or 5 Day (M-F) VPK and up attend 5 days a week, M-F

Pre-School Hours Tower Road location: 7:30-5:30.

Children must attend a minimum of 5 hours a day

Pre-School Hours 24th Ave location: 8:30-12:30 Optional afternoon adventure till 1:30PM or 2:30PM

VPK: 1:00PM – 4:00PM

Elementary School hours: 8:15AM – 2:30PM After-Care

Hours are optional before and after-school programs are available for an additional charge at the elementary school.

Imagine Learning Center with Director Daniella Porter

4840 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32606 / (352) 371-5450

info@imaginelearningcenter.com

www.imaginelearningcenter.com

1-3 year olds + VPK The school is open 7:30AM – 5:30PM.

Students may attend 2, 3, 4, or 5 days a week as enrollment permits.

Pre-school hours:8:30AM – 1:30PM children may be dropped off as early as 7:30AM.

For half day options for children 1-2 years old, students must be picked up between 12 and 12:30 for the morning session or dropped off between 12:30 and 1:00 for the afternoon session

A a late fee is charged at $1/minute for late pickup.

KinderCare® Learning Center with Director Cassandra Newton

10 SW 75th Street, Gainesville, FL 32607 / (352) 332-4182

www.kindercare.com

Pre-school: 6 weeks – 3 years old + VPK and after-school care for children up to 12 years old

The school is open Monday-Friday 6:30AM- 6:30PM Scheduling is flexible, and students of all ages may attend part-time or full-time.

VPK: 8:30AM – 11:30PM

Also offering enrichments classes year round in 4-5 week cycles specific to age that include Phonics, Spanish, Reading, Music, Math, Science, Cooking, and Sports.

Millhopper Montessori School with Director Christina Miller

8505 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32606 / (352) 375-6773

www.millhopper.com

2-5 years and Kindergarten – 8th grade

The school is open 7:00AM – 6:00PM

All programs are Monday-Friday

Early Morning Program starts at 7:00AM

Early Childhood: 9:00AM – 3:00PM (Full time) or 9:00AM -12:00PM (Part time)

Elementary School: 9:00AM – 3:00PM

Middle School: 8:30AM – 3:30PM

After-Care Hours are for who are 3 and potty trained. It ends at 3 PM or 6pm the full day program.

Morning Meadow Pre-School with Director Sylvia Paluzzi

813 NW 6th St, Gainesville, FL / (352) 375-2197

morningmeadow9@msn.com

www.morningmeadow.com

2-6 year olds 8:30AM -1:30PM & VPK: 8:30-1:30

2, 3 and 5 day options for rates:

2-days: $345.00 per month

3 days: $375.00 per month

5 days: $450.00 per month

O2B Kids College

Supercenter: 6680 W Newberry Rd, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 332-6400

Midtown: 1555 NW 23rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 374-2202

Archer Road: 3989 SW 37th Boulevard, Gainesville, FL 32608 / (352) 378-8838

Hunter’s Crossing: 4929 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32653 / (352) 371-4202

info@o2bkids.com

www.O2BKids.com/Preschool.aspx

1-3 years olds + VPK Infants (Archer Road and Hunters Crossing locations only)

Full-time, part-time, and hourly preschool care during the following hours:

Supercenter, Midtown, Alachua: Monday – Friday 6:30AM – 7:00PM

Hunters Crossing & Archer: Monday-Friday 6:30AM – 6:30PM

Occasional hourly care is provided after 2:00 PM if the classroom size and staffing ratios permit additional children.

Parents are encouraged to call in advance to check availability.

Payment for occasional care is due when services are rendered.

Oak Hall Private School with Principal Kathy Gaston

7715 SW 14th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32607 / (352) 332-1452

oakhall@oakhall.org

www.oakhall.org

Pre-School: 3 year olds / Junior Kindergarten: 4 year olds Kindergarten-5th / Middle School: 6th – 8th / Upper School: 9th – 12th

The school is open 7:30AM – 6:00PM

3 Year olds: T/Th or Mon-Fri

4 Year olds (Junior Kindergarten): M/W/F or Mon-Fri

Kindergarten and up: Monday – Friday

3 and 4 year olds have 3 choices of schedules: 8:30-12:30/ 8:30-2:45/ or 8:30-6PM

Kindergarten and 1st Grade: 8:15-2:45 Grades 2-5: 8:15-3:30 / Middle School: 7:55-3:00 / Upper School: 7:50-3:00 /

Students may be dropped off as early as 7:30 A.M. They may stay in a supervised after-school program until 6:00PM.

Also offering art, music, library, physical education, computers and Spanish.

And, in the after-school program, they offer basketball, soccer, French, dance, choir, chess, scouting, cheerleading and computers.

The Spenser House Montesorri School in Alachua with Director Rebecca McCuller

13921 NW 146th Avenue, Alachua, FL 32616 / (386) 418-1213

office@spencerhousemontessori.com

http://www.spencerhousemontessori.com/preprimary_intro.htm

Beginners Program: 2 months – 2 years, Pre-Primary Program: 2 – 3 years, VPK and Kindergarten

The school is open 7:00AM – 6:00PM VPK: 9:00AM – 12:00PM / All other classes: 9:00AM – 3:00PM

After-Care Hours are 7:00AM – 9:00AM for FREE; and 3:00PM – 6:00PM at $2.25/ hour

Also offering Spanish, music, occupational therapy, PE, gymnastics and dance

Step By Step Learning Center with Directors Jenny and Mark Colyer

2211 NW 40th Terr, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 373-6988

stepbystepchildcare@cox.net

www.stepbysteplearningcenter.com

6 week old infants through VPK

The school is open 7:00AM until 6:00PM

Scheduling is flexible, and students may attend 2, 3, or 5 days a week as enrollment permits. Half-days are available with room.

For students enrolled in VPK, a wrap-around program is available from noon to 6 PM for $100/ week.

Also offering Computer classes in the 3 year old class and VPK

Religious Affiliations:

Abiding Savior Lutheran Church and School (Pre-School) with Director Bill Carmen

9700 W Newberry Rd, Gainesville, FL 32606 / (352) 331-7770

preschooloffice@abidingsavior.info

www.abidingsavior.info/preschool

2 ½ year olds, 3 year olds and Pre-K The school is open from 7:30 AM to 6:00PM

Students may enroll in a 2, 3 or 5 day program

Normal class hours are 8:30AM – 12:00PM

Extended care is available 7:30-8:30 AM and after school until 6:00PM

Students can enroll for blocks of extended time in 3, 5 and 7 hour blocks, or pay by the hour.

Also offering PE, Music, Art and Sun Country Gym Bus

The Academy Pre-School at The Family Church with Director Dr. Suzanna Sargent

2022 SW 122nd Street, Gainesville, FL 32608 / (352) 642-1290

theacademy@thefamilychurch.net

www.thefamilychurch.net/academy

8 weeks to 5 years in a multi-age classroom

School is open 7:00AM to 6:00PM.

Full time enrollment only

Bnai Isreal Community Day School with Director Debby Kinman-Ford

3830 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 376-1508

Debby@bnaigainesville.com

http://www.bnaigainesville.com/welcome-to-our-school/

Classes:Infants – PreK Hours: The school is open 7:30AM – 5:30PM (4:30PM on Fridays)

Children must attend Monday-Friday, 5 day program only.

Infants/ Toddlers: 8:00AM – 5:30PM

Pre-School: 8:00AM – 2:00PM (Part-time) or 8:00AM – 5:00PM (Full-Time)

For those enrolled in the part-time program, extended hours are available until 5:30 PM at the rate of $15/ hour.

Also offering Musikgarten, Yoga, Judaics Classes, Computer Lab, Outdoor Environmental Classroom, and a variety of language and dance classes

First Presbyterian Pre-School with Director Lisa Hershkowitz

106 SW 3rd St, Gainesville, FL 32601 / (352) 376-1818

preschool@1stpc.org

www.1stpc.org/preschool.html

Year-Round Program for 3 months to 5 years old

The school is open 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM Two Year Old Classes Only: 2 Day (Tu/ Th); 3 Day (MWF) and 5 Day (M-F) programs

All other classes: 5 day programs only

Under 2 years old Part Time: 7:30AM – 12:30PM or 12:30PM – 5:30PM

Under 2 years old Full Time: or 7:30AM – 5:30PM

2 year olds: 8:30AM – 12:30PM (Part-Time) or 7:30AM to 5:30PM (Full Time)

3 and 4 year olds: 8:30AM – 1:30PM (Part-Time) or 7:30AM to 5:30PM (Full Time)

After care hours may be added by prior arrangement to the part-day program at an additional cost of $5.00 per hour provided there is space available.

Also offers Music and Stretch and Grow

FUMPers First United Methodist Pre-school with Director Amy Watson

419 NE 1st St, Gainesville, FL 32601 / (352) 373-0108

fumpers@fumcnv.org

http://fumcgnv.org/Preschool/Preschool-Main.htm

2- 4 year olds 9AM – Noon for all classes

2 Year Olds: Mon/Wed or T/Th

3 Year Olds: M/W/F or M-F

4 Year Olds: M-F

We offer Early Drop every day at 8:30am ($4/day) and we offer Lunch Bunch on Mondays & Thursdays from 12 to 1pm ($5/day)

Also offering FREE childcare programs to FUMPers families who participate in weekly Parent’s Morning Out and monthly Parent’s Night Out

Love-N-Care Christian Learning Center with Director Jayme Tate

1520 NW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 378-5190

jayme_tate@westwoodhillsministries.org

www.westwoodhillsministries.org/pre-school_index.html

Infants – Preschool + VPK

The school is open 7:00AM – 6:00PM

All programs are Monday-Friday Full Time Hours are: 7:00AM – 6:00PM & Part Time Hours are 7:30AM – 12:30 PM

VPK: 9:00AM – 12:00PM

Open Arms Lutheran Child Development Center with Director Angela Burr

1823 NW 5th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32603 / (352) 373-5856

info@openarmscdc.org

www.openarmscdc.org

Toddler, Pre-School and VPK The school is open 7:15AM to 5:45PM.

Two day (Tues/Thurs), Three day (Mon/Wed/Fri), or M-F programs are offered

Preschool hours: 8:45AM to 11:45AM

Full Day child-care: 7:15AM – 5:45PM

The Rock Christian School with Pre-School Director Marcy Hansen

9818 SW 24th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32607 / (352) 331-7625

info@therocklions.com
www.therocklions.com

Pre-school for 2, 3 and 4 year olds

VPK and Kingergarten- 12th grade
The school is open 7:00AM – 6:00PM
Pre-School Classes: 2 Day (T/Th); 3 Day (MWF) and 5 Day (M-F) programs available
Half-day options available.
VPK: Monday-Friday 8:00AM – 12:00noon
K-12: Monday – Friday 8:30AM – 3:00PM
Before school care is available from 7:00 – 8:00AM. We have an elementary after school program that meets from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. Aftercare is $8 per day or $80 per month (whichever is less). There is no enrollment necessary for Aftercare. Students may attend any days in which the parent requires them to do so and then are billed at the end of each month.
Also offering Art, music, PE and computer classes

Sonshine Day Baptist Pre-School with Director Heather Greist

10000 W Newberry Rd, Gainesville, FL 32606 / (352) 333-0017

http://www.sonshineday.org/

Infants, Toddlers, 2 year olds, 3 year olds and 4 year olds

The school is open 7:30AM – 5:30PM

Two or three day options are available for 2 and 3 year old classes, but all other classes are Mon-Fri.

Full Time Hours: 7:30AM – 5:30PM / Part Time Only Hours: 7:30AM – 3:00PM

Preschool & VPK Hours: 8:30-12:00

Our afterschool program is open 1:30 — 5:30 PM (12:15—5:30 PM Wednesdays)

St. Michael’s Episcopal Pre-School with Director Kelly Pence

4315 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL 32606 / (352) 376-1771

stmichaelspreschool@gmail.com

www.stmichaelsgnv.org/DaySchool

2 year olds, 3 year olds and VPK 2 Year olds: T/Th 9:00AM – 12:00Noon

3 Year Olds: M/W/Fri 9:00AM – 12:00Noon

VPK: M/W/F: 9:00AM – 2:15PM or Mon-Fri9:00AM -12:00Noon

Also offering Music

Stepping Stones Trinity Methodist Pre-School with Director Jan Banks

4000 NW 53th Ave, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 371-1090

www.trinitygnv.org/steppingstones

1 year old through Pre-k (4 years)

The normal day is from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm with afternoon enrichment from 7:30 am – 5:30 pm.

Every 6 weeks offers a new set of afternoon enrichment camps, including but not limited to Music, World Travelers, Gardening, Spanish, Pirates, Dinosaurs and Outdoor Games.

Westminster Presbyterian Day School with Director Kathy Burnett

3232 NW 15th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 377-4506

http://www.wpcgainesville.org/activities/christian-education

Two year old classes through VPK

The school is open from 8:00AM – 4:00PM

Preschool Hours are 9:00AM – 1:00PM

2 year old students may enroll for 3-5 days a week, any days of the week.

3 year old students may enroll for 4-5 days a week, any days of the week.

VPK students attend 5 days a week 9:00AM -12:00Noon.

Extended hours are available on an as needed basis until 4 PM. Rate is $5/ hour

Also offering music, drama, crafts

Kristen Rabell & Rebecca Johnson, REALTORS
Matchmaker Realty of Alachua County
Kristen: 352-213-6760
Rebecca: 352-275-9900
Fax: 352-372-3039
P.S. – You should follow us on Facebook To see our listings or search the MLS, visit www.KristenAndRebecca.com

Quick tips to get your home ready to show – Gainesville FL Real Estate

GatorRealtors — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:08:53 +0000

Home is located in Longleaf Village Gainesville, FL

Imagine…..You listed your home last week and after an open house yesterday you plan to relax this morning. The kids are playing (with every toy they own), the dog is asleep on your bed, and you are about to start the mountain of laundry that the weekend created suddenly the phone rings……

It’s a local REALTOR asking to show your home in an hour. The buyer just asked about it and they are only here for the afternoon. What do you do?

Answer: Say YES!

Never turn a buyer away. Next work quickly and have a plan. When you decide to list you should always have a plan for just this type of situation. Hopefully if your home is on the market you have already followed our “How to prepare my home to sell” tips, if so then this should be a breeze….

Here’ what you need to do:

1. Clear the kitchen counters (Load the dishwasher, tuck the coffee maker and toaster away, ect)

2. Empty trash cans and diaper pail

3. Make all beds presentable (Nobody is expects military quality bed making, but it should look neat)

4. Take a rag an wipe down countertops in the kitchen and bathroom

5. Make sure front entry is swept and clean

6. Pick up/straighten the house (be sure toys, blankets, laundry are tucked out of the way)

7. Open the blinds and let in the light

(if you have been asked to turn on your lights for showings now would be a good time to do that step)

8. Fabreeze everything to give a light clean scent

9. Wrangle the kids and get out of the house while it is shown

(Please don’t forget to crate or take your pup with you)

The best thing you can do when your family decides to put the house on the market and move it make an agreement that every evening everyone will help pick up or pitch in. I am not selling my home, but I find this home organization calendar from JustMommies.com very helpful for keeping up with cleaning.

Kristen Rabell & Rebecca Johnson, REALTORS
Matchmaker Realty of Alachua County
Kristen: 352-213-6760 Website: www.KristenAndRebecca.com
Rebecca: 352-275-9900 Email: info@KristenAndRebecca.com

Getting my home ready to sell in 2012 – Gainesville FL Real Estate

GatorRealtors — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:46:52 +0000

The spring sales season is upon us and if you are thinking about listing your home you are probably feeling overwhelmed and not sure what needs/should be done. Here are a few tips and suggestions to help you along.

1) Curb Appeal

Make sure your home looks appealing from the exterior as well as the interior you will only have one chance to impress the buyer.

Grass should be kept trimmed, bushes and shrubs should be hedged and kept neat, and weeds should be pulled.
If the house is due to be painted, or if the paint just needs touched up, then have it done before you put it on the market.
Keep the front door and entry way free of cobwebs and dirt/leaves
The backyard should also be clean and neat looking. If you fence is in need of repair take the time to do it.

2) Make Room

Give the illusion of space to the buyer.

Clean out ALL closets (pack up out of season clothing and extra linens not currently needed)
Sort through toys and other items that you haven’t used or needed in the last 3-6 months. If you are planning to keep them, but aren’t currently using them then pack them up.
Clear the kitchen counter tops off and organize the kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

3) Follow your nose

Nothing turns off buyers faster than unpleasant odors. Don’t let that stop YOU from getting your home sold!

Clean carpets and have tile and grout cleaned
Wash bedding, curtains, and throw rugs
Make sure trash cans are clean as well as other surface areas in the kitchen and bathroom
If you have pets make sure you have them on a regular bathing schedule while your home is on the market. If you have birds, hamsters, ect please make sure you keep the cage(s) extra clean. While many of us with pets are not aware of the smell of our animals others might be able to detect the odors and that might take your home off the list.

4) Let there be light

Natural light is known to lift moods/spirits and adds warmth to your home

Make sure you clean windows inside and out to let in the natural light
Don’t forget to clean the screens too.

5) Make your home ageless

Homes from the 1940’s can sell just as easily & quickly as a newer home if your home is ageless.

If your home has loud or bright colors you should consider neutralizing the color palette to appeal to more buyers.
If your home was built in the 70’s and you still have the original carpet REPLACE it.
If your appliances are old and dated consider replacing them too. Try places like Sears and Home Depot. They often offer “appliance packages” for owners updating dishwashers, range/stoves/cook tops, and refrigerators.
Another less expensive “update” is to switch out old cabinet hardware and light fixtures.

Laugh if you will, but I have seen homes with the original appliances and carpet here in

Gainesville from homes built in the 50’s and 60’s buyers notice and 9 out of 10 will take your home off their list.

There are currently at this moment 1,935 homes in Alachua County for sale. Help your home stand out and get SOLD! If you are thinking about selling your home give us a call, we would love to help you.

We are feeling the LOVE today!

GatorRealtors — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 19:59:42 +0000

Thank you to everyone who listened LIVE to “Making the Match with Matchmaker Realty” on WDVH FOX News Radio 980 AM Gainesville this afternoon! We appreciate that support and encouragement. It was our first time doing live radio and we were pretty nervous.Your texts, emails, and calls really helped settle our nerves once we got going.

We would like to send a BIG thank you out to Millard Joyner of Joyner Construction, Inc in Gainesville, FL for stopping by and talking with us today about building green homes in Gainesville, his thoughts on remodeling vs building, and his current residential home community The Villas at Tower 24!

If you missed the show we will be posting all of the questions, some of which we answered on air, that were sent into us by current and past customers, friends, and family. We will always answer all of your questions and post them to the site after the show so everyone can have the chance to see them. We will also be posting the tips that we discussed today about preparing your home to show and sell this sales season (everything should be up by Sunday evening). Keep sending your questions into info@KristenAndRebecca.com our next appearance on the show will be Saturday February 18th 12-1PM. We are signing off for the day to go enjoy this beautiful Florida weather with our families! Go Gators!

If you missed the show we will be posting it to our YOUTUBE page next week.

Special thanks to Heather Swanson for screening incoming calls and Crash for producing the show

we couldn’t have done it without you guys!