25 MILLION DOLLAR BLOG LAWSUIT

I still have one more post to make regarding the art show at Williams Island, stay tuned. It's regarding the show in the 4000 building. I think it's important to interupt this string of art show reviews to call your attention to LOCAL BLOGGER NEWS.

This week a BLOGGER is being sued for 25 million and has been fired from his job. The blogger is Lucas Lechuga, who writes http://www.blog.miamicondoinvestments.com/, and he is a Realtor who was formerly employed by EWM (a real estate brokerage owned by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway - deep pocket). There's usually treasure on one side of a lawsuit. Apparently the basis of this suit stems from a harmless post Lechuga wrote regarding his honest opinion on a Miami developer's new project. That developer filed suit against EWM and Mr. Lechuga. One of the main reasons blogs exist is for people to share their own thoughts and opinions about public figures, public news, and other events that shape the world we inhabit.

It's essential that blog readers understand this and recognize the value of blogs. Most blogs do not have a traditional editorial structure; however, they can offer readers engaging and original content. Some popular blogs, like New York's http://www.curbed.com , have paid advertising just like traditional newspapers and magazines. In fact, this blog is currently in discussions with various potential advertisers and companies interested in advertorials. It's clear that blogs are a forum that have changed the public's relationship with news.

Lechuga writes what is known as a "real estate blog," giving readers his insight and experiences about the real estate market. There are so many blogs covering a variety of subjects, each with a unique viewpoint. For example, although I have a real estate license at Terrabella Realty, this isn't a "real estate blog," this blog is about what goes on in the City of Aventura it's a reporting of various relevant issues, events, spotlights on residents and local businesses. Take a look out in the blogosphere and you'll discover blogs about every topic in your imagination. So many people have something to say, it's fantastic! Start your own blog today, it's free.

Bloggers and readers join together to spread the word about the plight of the Miami blogger Luchega. Pass the story around the blogosphere and write your own thoughts. You decide for yourself what should happen. If you'd like to see the CBS interview of Lucas take a look about what he had to say regarding his controversial Miami Condo Investments blog.

Remember to check back to read our scheduled post about the 4000 building art show.

Aventura Florida and NYC Real Estate TALK

As promised, I will comment on the Inman's real estate conference Bloggers Connect - sponsored by HomePerks.com. In addition, to learning a lot of cool tips and tricks about the blogging world, I enjoyed meeting the people behind the blogs. In a future post I'll outline some blogging and SEO advice from the pro bloggers at the conference. For now, I'd like to mention some of the bloggers I met and continue an online dialogue that was recently started by Robin Greenbaum, Associate Broker at Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate in New York City.

I met Robin Greenbaum in the Exhibit hall while I was checking out all the companies presenting their products and services to the attendees. We briefly spoke and later met up at an intensive seminar discussing the future of blogging. After the seminar we talked about the connections between Aventura Florida and New York City real estate. We thought it would be a great idea to continue this conversation via blogs and videos. So, I sent her an email with a few questions about New York real estate. Here is a video of her response, it's episode 4 of Ask a New York City Real Estate Agent.



Robin, thanks for starting an online discussion about Florida and New York City real estate. Cool website plug! You mentioned the condos at Hidden Bay in Aventura Florida. Here's a photo of that community for those of you not familiar with the area.



As you all can see this community has amazing ocean views in Aventura. It's a picture perfect location that is located in a private area next to Aventura's Founders Park.

Response to Robin Greenbaum's questions:

Why Aventura over Miami?

Simple, Aventura Florida is centrally located and an easy commute to popular destinations in both Miami Beach and Ft. Lauderdale. It's near I95 and the ocean. It's the best of both worlds. There's a real community atmosphere that is developing in Aventura, making it an ideal location to raise a family. Take a look at our blog archive and you'll see why Aventura is a great place to call home.

What's happening to Aventura real estate?

Well, as a realtor at Terrabella Realty I can comment that Aventura real estate is holding its value; however, properties are not moving as quickly as they once did. That being said, there will always be a market for luxury condos with ocean views and they do sell - even if priced high. Many of the recent sales are to forgein buyers taking advantage of the low dollar value. This is common in Aventua because a majority of owners in Aventura live in other states or countries, their real estate purchase was either an investment or for vacations. When I say other states I mean New York of course.

It's great having this discuss about New York and Florida real estate. I know that all of our Aventura readers will appreciate this topic. It's always good for our residents to meet a New York real estate agent, because they'll likely want to sell their New York real estate once they spend some time living in Aventura Florida. Thanks again.

I hope we get input from others and continue this video to blog trend.

Here are a few blogs around the country that I think are worth reading. I got to meet all these bloggers at Inman. If you're a bloggers make sure to check out the next Inman conference.

Real Estate Blog in New York City - Lockhart Steele

Real Estate Blog in Virgina - Daniel Rothamel

Real Estate Blog in Phoenix - Jay

Real Estate Blog in Reno Nevada Diane Cohn and Guy

Real Estate Blog in Miami - Lucas Lechuga

It was great meeting all the bloggers. I will be mentioning more and also I'll be discussing some of the new Internet companies that service the real estate industry. Subscribe or check back soon.