Located only 45 minutes from the beach and within 15 minutes of some of the most famous family-oriented attractions in the country including Disney World and Sea World, Orlando is also a thriving business center in central Florida.

"The real estate market continues to be a hot seller's market where homes are significantly priced high," says Realtor Trudie Hammond. "The hurricanes have slowed activity, however, a return to normal for all residents will find a continued strong real estate market. The population continues to grow as 800 people per day move to the Central Florida area. New construction is overwhelmed with demand and is trying to keep up with the market, therefore extended completion dates are forecasted. Central Florida, specifically Orlando continues to be the location of choice!

"The Orlando housing market is still strong," says Realtor Jared Dalto. "Orlando is still the hot spot for relocation in Florida. Orlando boasts a beautiful city with shopping and entertainment. All indicators are pointing to another increase in home prices this year in Orlando. New construction in Orlando is still booming but slowing down a little. Opportunities are still here. Orlando new homes is sometimes the way to buy. Many people buy a resale home and one may find the same value and price in new construction to be equal. With interest rates at just under 6 percent many home seekers are looking to find a home or investment in Orlando before the rates increase again. Local areas will always have their desirable neighborhoods that will command buyers and sellers any time of the year."

Say Realtors June and Don Moore, "Heathrow, Lake Mary, Longwood, Oviedo, Sanford, Winter Springs, Orlando - each city within Seminole county offers it residents and visitors something unique. Although the county is know for its natural beauty, it is also home to a growing number of shopping, dining and entertainment venues. Seminole County High Schools are ranked by Newsweek Magazine in the top four percent of the nation with 96 percent of the county's schools earning an "A" or "B" grade for 2002-2003 school year. Seminole County's real estate market offers a wide range of residential options with new and resale communities, golf course locations, lakefront locations, conservation and more.The residential marker here continues to grow and prosper and offers a wonderful Florida lifestyle."

They add, "This was the busiest hurricane season in memory here in Orlando, but the market is rebounding and has adjusted to a more reasonable pace. Although existing home sales declined in August 2.51 percent, the year-to-date sales are ahead of 2003. Statewide the median sales price rose 15 percent and statewide sales of single-family resales gained 3 percent according to the Florida Association of Realtors (FAR). With interest rates falling this week to less than 6 percent, the Orlando market will continue to see activity...although inventory is still low."