Judging by some of the national media reports on the state of the housing market, many people probably are thinking that now's not the best time to buy a home, says Bob Glaser, president of Smith & Associates. He disagrees, arguing that, unlike other parts of the country, the Tampa Bay area's economy is strong, which makes the housing market more resilient. ...more

December 23, 2007

SEBRING –– David Leidel takes his responsibility as a citizen seriously by getting involved and working within a group with similar goals to better Highlands County. Leidel received his bachelor's in business administration from Stetson University in 1998. Afterward, he moved to Sebring to open the Lake Placid office of the investment firm Edward Jones. In 2004, Leidel was hired by Highlands Independent Bank to open its trust and brokerage department. Each morning he can be heard on 105.7 FM doing a live market commentary. "Most people overreact to the bad economic news they hear, but if you step back and look at the big picture, there's lots of good news," he said. Leidel remains positive no matter what business cycle we're in. He believes there will always be issues, but right now is the best time to buy a home. Currently, Leidel is president of the Sebring Noon Rotary. When he sees bright students through their Interact Club at Sebring High School and Heartland Christian, he is rejuvenated because of their leadership potential. Although he knows some will graduate, go to college and find jobs elsewhere, some will stay here. Leidel believes in cultivating their leadership to benefit the community. ...more

December 10, 2007