South Padre Island Real Estate News
Beckie Johnson is your source for the latest "island insider" information and news.

Senate passes the real estate credit expansion & extension for Real Estate Tax Credits! - 11/8/09
Senate has passed an extension and expansion of the tax credit for homebuyers. The first time homebuyer credit of $8,000 will be extended through April 30, 2010. Also, a new credit of up to $6,500 would be made available for move-up buyers! Call me with any questions about how we can put this new program to work for you.

Tax Credit Expansion - 10/29/09
Good news for first-time home buyers. The senate has reached a compromise on extending and expanding the $8,000 tax credit. While the passage remains undercertain, the agreement would extend the existing credit and perhaps offer a new $6.500 for some existing homebuyers. I'll keep an eye on this exciting news!

Red Tide Update - 10/27/09
Red Tide is a naturally occurring algae bloom. South Padre has been experiencing the effects of the Red Tide for a couple of weeks now. This algae causes a reduction in Oxygen in the water that often results in fish kill. It also releases chemicals that can cause eye irritation and coughing. While annoying, it shouldnt be a health issue for most but, those with breathing issues and ailments should use caution. Masks over the nose and mouth are helpful.

Most recent information about the Red Algae is that the cell count of algae in the water is highest at the south end of Padre Island near Isla Blanca Park. There has been fish kill noticed and fish are washing up on the north beach near access 5.

A recent cold front should bring change to the algae and water climate. So the red tide bloom should be coming to a close soon.

Leaning condos to be demolished - 10/1/09
The unfinished Ocean Towers high rise building located just north of The Shores, is soon to be demolished. The 31 story condo project was halted last year due to the uneven sinking of the structure. Implosion is scheduled for mid-november. Buyers in OTSPI will recieve a full refund on their deposits.