In Pinellas County, the prices of some $1 million homes have dropped to $500,000 and $600,000, most likely the lowest they’ve ever been (certainly the lowest we, as realtors, have ever seen them), and it’s very unlikely that they will go any lower. The present situation is what market analysts call a “buyer’s market,” meaning it is optimally-suited for buyers looking for great real estate deals, though with the right realtors, sellers can still get good value for their homes as well. The idea, for buyers or investors, is to get in now and watch the progress of the market, so that when it levels out you will have a million dollar equity that cost you significantly less to buy. With a little sweat put into these poperties (think swimming pools, etc.), you might even see your values triple over the long term. Most economists agree that opportunities like this will not happen again in the near future.
Pinellas County, Florida Emergency Utilitiy Assistance
on Aug 24, 2011
Utilities Assistance
If you anticipate a problem paying your bills, call the utility company and arrange a payment plan. Do not wait until you receive a shut off notice.
City of Clearwater
The City of Clearwater currently has customer utilities assistance available through the We Care Fund. This fund is administered through the Salvation Army. You can obtain information by calling (727) 446-4177.
If you are experiencing difficulties making your rental or utility payments there are a number of non-profit organizations that offer assistance.
Pinellas County Utilities
To request an extension on your Pinellas County Utility bill, you will want to contact a customer service representative. You can call the Customer Assistance Line at (727) 464-4000. Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 6:00pm.
If you need to find their offices, they are:
Pinellas County Utilities, 14 South Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater
Pinellas County Utilities, 6730 142nd Ave., Largo
St. Pete Beach City Hall, 155 Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach
Progress Energy has a Customer Assistance Program designed for those who are experiencing temporary financial difficulties such as sudden illness, unexpected unemployment, or an emergency or personal crisis.
The Salvation Army has Emergency Assistance in areas such as:
•Supermarket vouchers
•Food Pantries and Food Baskets
•Emergency Lodging and Meals
•Utilities and Rent Assistance
•Household Furnishing Assistance
•Emergency Inter-City Transportation Assistance
•Clothing Assistance
•Community Meals
•Emergency Shelter
To find the address and phone number of a nearby center, please view the following locator page: Click here
If circumstances make it impossible to pay your electric bill by the date due, Tampa Electric will discuss the possibility of granting a payment extension. Certain guidelines apply. To request a payment arrangement, please complete the online form . Please be aware that it will take up to two business days to process your request. If you need to make your arrangement sooner, you can call our automated phone system at (813) 223-0800 (Hillsborough County), (863) 299-0800 (Polk County), or 1-888-223-0800 (all other counties and out-of-state).
Should you need assistance with your gas or water bills, contact the providing company directly for information on possible assistance programs.