WATERFRONT RENTALS IN DOWNTOWN STUART

Check out our renovated condos in Edgewater Villas that are available for annual lease—3-bed/3-bath units with wide-water views of the St. Lucie River's North Fork. Edgewater Villas is located on the waterfront AND within walking distance of Historic Downtown Stuart. Docks available!

The condos of Edgewater Villas comprise three bedrooms with three bathrooms and 1,561 sq. ft. of living space. Amenities include a marina, a heated community pool, and a clubhouse. Click here for more info.

Contact us today to learn more about homes for sale or selling a home on the Treasure Coast. Whether buying or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation. Eric Slifkin, Broker Associate, Keller Williams Realty. Info: 772-678-1600.

Weekly National and Local Real Estate News Round-Up

The Latest & Real Estatest In this week's Talking Points: A deep dive on housing inventory at the national and city level, inflation and the Fed, and more!

National Real Estate News

You want to move it move it?

Have you outgrown your home? Or perhaps you'd just like to live in a new environment? There are a million motivations for moving - and they're all about the lifestyle you desire for yourself and your family. Let's meet up to talk about your housing goals and financing options, so that when you're ready to make your move, a plan is in place. 

Rates refuse to stay down

Last week, average 30-yr mortgage rates dropped from near 7.5% to almost 7.0%. This week, they've reversed course and are approaching 7.4%. Why? 1) Some stronger economic data, and 2) A few comments from Fed members suggested that interest rates could stay higher for longer. Meanwhile, home prices keep rising: Black Knight said national home prices climbed 1.5% month-over-month in July. Rates refuse to stay down New listings rise

New listings rise

In a normal year, the number of new listings peaks in May/June and then declines sharply until bottoming in December. This August, however, new listings actually ROSE 3.5% month-over-month, allowing total active listings to grow to 670,000 units nationwide. That's still 46% below August 2019 (pre-pandemic) levels, but in this inventory-starved market you've got to celebrate small victories.

Questions about our local real estate market? 

Contact us today to learn more about homes for sale or selling a home on the Treasure Coast. Whether buying or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation. Eric Slifkin, Broker Associate, Keller Williams Realty. Info: 772-678-1600.

A stunning new home opportunity is underway in Port Saint Lucie, Florida! The Veranda Falls shopping district on Becker Road is undergoing a surge in high-end residential development. Its beautiful tree-lined surroundings, well-maintained landscapes, and outstanding amenities offer a unique living experience for all types of new home buyers.

Discover the Lifestyle Communities of Veranda Falls

Many new home communities are being built along Becker Road adjacent to the upscale Shoppes at Veranda Falls.

Real estate development is progressing steadily along this section of Becker Road, which borders Palm City and Tradition—top builders like Kolter, Pulte, Lennar, Del Web, and Taylor Morrison are involved.

Top Communities by Top Builders

Find your dream home in the communities encompassing Veranda Falls, conveniently located off Becker Road near Treasure Coast beaches, recreation, entertainment, medical facilities, shopping, and cultural activities. Join our interest list for the latest new home communities and homes for sale near Veranda Falls.

Mosaic New Homes by Kolter

Veranda Gardens by Divosta Homes

Veranda Oaks by Taylor Morrison

Veranda Preserve by Lennar Homes

Join Our Interest List

Join our interest list for the latest new home communities and homes for sale near Veranda Falls, or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Whether buying or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation.

Treasure Coast Senior Living Options

Learn About 55+ and Active Adult Communities 

Caring.com, post contributor

Looking for a retirement community in Florida? Port Saint Lucie on Florida's Treasure Coast has a variety of 55+ communities. Our team of local experts can help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle, whether you want an active social scene or a peaceful haven. Start enjoying your golden years in Port Saint Lucie today! Learn More

Search Homes for Sale in Active Adult and 55+ Communities

What Are 55+ Communities?

If you're considering moving to a 55+ community or senior apartment, remember that these residences differ significantly from other senior living communities. Though designed for older adults, senior lifestyle communities typically do not offer on-site medical care, personal care assistance, or communal dining included in the monthly cost. Instead, residents live a completely independent lifestyle, similar to what they had in their former homes. 

The main difference between living in a standard apartment complex or planned community, and the main appeal for many, is that all of your neighbors are around the same age and ability level and likely in the same life stage. Additionally, senior lifestyle communities handle exterior maintenance for residents and may offer assistance with interior work, relieving some of the stress one would experience with traditional homeownership. Active adult communities are also frequently outfitted with senior-friendly features like grab bars and single-floor living to help residents stay safe without modifying their homes. 

Several different types of communities and residences fall under the umbrella of "55+ communities." Retirement communities each have their feel and may comprise apartments or condos, townhomes, single-family homes, or a mix of the above. As the individual unit grows, costs typically will, too, and community or amenity fees will be higher for more luxurious communities. The good news about this variation in price between communities is that it gives prospective buyers plenty of options and enables most people to find a 55+ community that fits their preferences and budgets.

What Are the Different Types of 55+ Communities?

To help you understand the different types of 55+ communities, we've divided them into two categories: senior apartments and senior lifestyle communities. For this guide, "senior lifestyle communities" refer to age-restricted communities that include single-family homes or a mix of multiple housing types. 

Senior Apartments 

From the outside, senior apartment complexes may look like any other apartment complex. Senior apartments are rental units restricted to adults over the age of 55 or, in some cases, 62 and older. These buildings typically do not have many amenities beyond common areas for residents to socialize or a fitness center, and most do not offer communal dining. However, many organize social interest groups and on-site social events for residents to make it easier for them to form friendships with their neighbors. They may also coordinate transportation for group shopping trips or other outings. Housekeeping services may also be available for an extra fee. 

Unless the community receives subsidies to offer lower rents to low-income seniors, living in a senior apartment will be similar to standard apartment rental costs in your area. But with neighbors around the same age and units designed with helpful features such as wide doorways and no-slip flooring, many older adults may find they're more comfortable in a senior apartment than in a standard unit.

Senior Lifestyle Communities 

These planned communities differ from senior apartments in that the neighborhood contains a mix of housing styles, from single-family homes to duplexes to condos. Rather than occupying a single building, senior lifestyle communities may span several acres and contain recreational facilities such as a pool or tennis court. The homes and community grounds are designed with older adults in mind and may feature a secure gate, well-lit sidewalks, and wheelchair ramps where necessary. Though some residents may have their yards, the community typically handles outdoor maintenance, providing older adults with a low-maintenance lifestyle. 

Because the units in these communities are typically larger than apartments, expect to pay more than you would for a senior apartment. Some senior lifestyle communities are also homeownership rather than rentals and may have a "buy-in" and monthly HOA fee for which residents are responsible.

Read the full article at www.Caring.com

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Organizing and decluttering can be a challenging task for most people. However, it's necessary to keep your home tidy and functional.

Let's begin by taking a "12-12-12" tour of your home. This tactic involves selecting 12 items to discard, 12 to donate, and 12 to relocate to a more suitable location. This tactic is valuable for making a fun competition with your partner or children.

You can also keep a charity basket in a central location, like the laundry room, where every one can donate unwanted items like outgrown clothes, books, and small toys. It's also essential to clear the pantry by throwing out expired spices, canned goods, and anything else that's been in your cupboard for too long.

Using inexpensive drawer organizers to separate small items in the kitchen and bathroom can also help keep things tidy. Another effective method is to go through your clothes closet or cupboard and separate your items into something you love, don't love, or are unsure about. You can then donate the things you don't need while keeping the ones you love.

Finally, make it a daily habit to involve your family in cleaning by asking them to pick up ten things and put them where they belong. You can turn it into a game to see who can finish first, with a prize like an extra story or 15 minutes before bedtime.

Questions about our local real estate market? 

Contact us today to learn more about homes for sale or selling a home on the Treasure Coast. Whether buying or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation. Eric Slifkin, Broker Associate, Keller Williams Realty. Info: 772-678-1600.

How to Secure the Best Available Mortgage Rates

Are you experiencing financial stress due to high mortgage rates hovering around 7%? Don't worry; there are ways to secure the best possible deal on your loan. Affordability is a significant concern, especially since 60% of US cities have seen a rise in home prices during the second quarter of this year. With mortgage rates currently above 7%, the monthly payment for a single-family home mortgage, on average, is over $2,200.

Are you looking to save money on your mortgage? Here are some tips that might come in handy to help you out. Firstly, you should begin by scouting for the most competitive rates and then negotiate with the lenders to get the best deal possible. A credit score above 740 increases the probability of obtaining lower interest rates. Shopping around can also save you a significant amount over the life of your loan - studies show that getting multiple mortgage rate quotes can save you an average of $84,301. Learn More

Consider buying down mortgage points, which can lower the interest rate on your loan. However, keep in mind that this requires paying more upfront at closing. Existing customers who bank with a lender may also qualify for relationship discounts.

Finally, be aware of float-down policies, as mortgage rates fluctuate throughout the closing timeline. And remember, negotiating on the initial APR or refinance rate can lead to savings, with an 80% success rate.

Questions about our local real estate market? 

Contact us today to learn more about homes for sale or selling a home on the Treasure Coast. Whether buying or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation. Eric Slifkin, Broker Associate, Keller Williams Realty. Info: 772-678-1600.

Are you looking for Treasure Coast homes this week? Look no further! Discover the finest homes and condos for sale on the beautiful Treasure Coast. Find the best homes and condos for sale today. 

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If you have found a place you love, but the rent is too high, or if you need to renew your lease but want to negotiate for a lower rent, don't be afraid to try negotiating with your landlord. 

Negotiating is not against the rules and may help you get a lower rental cost. Here are some tips to help you negotiate:

1. Do your research: Look up the rental costs of similar properties in the area to see how your rent compares. If you find a lower rate elsewhere, use it as a bargaining tool.

2. Offer to exchange services for a lower rate: If you are willing to do some work around the property, such as seasonal maintenance, you may be able to negotiate a lower monthly rent.

3. Change your lease terms: Consider offering to pay a lump sum of rent 3-6 months in advance to lower your monthly rent or discuss moving out during peak seasons to increase vacancy chances.

4. Sell yourself: If you are a great tenant, bring letters of recommendation or remind your landlord of your on-time payments and communication history. This can help you negotiate a lower rent.

Are you finding your rent too expensive? You won't get what you want if you don't ask!

Questions about our rental market? 

Contact us today to learn more about Stuart area rental homes or listing a rental property on the Treasure Coast. Whether renting, buying, or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation. Eric Slifkin, Broker Associate, Keller Williams Realty. Info: 772-678-1600.

What it Means for a House to be Move-in Ready

Maintain Realistic Expectations When Assessing Move-in Ready Homes

You may prefer a move-in-ready property when searching for a home to buy. But what does that term mean exactly? It can vary depending on the person. 

Need help to find a move-in ready home? Join Our Interest List

Some might define it as a house with all appliances in working order, while others might see it as a recently renovated home with trendy features. However, from a technical standpoint, a move-in ready home meets all local codes and can be occupied.

It's essential to remember that move-in ready is a subjective term, and what one person considers move-in ready might differ from someone else's definition. To find a home that meets your needs and wants, provide your agent with detailed information about your preferences.

If you're struggling to find a move-in-ready home, consider new construction. It may be more expensive, but it allows you to customize a home. When deciding, focus on what matters most to you, the neighborhood or the home's condition.

A move-in ready home might require updates or renovations to meet your needs and preferences. Even newly renovated or constructed homes may have minor imperfections. Therefore, it's essential to communicate your intentions to your agent and manage your expectations.

In looking for a move-in ready home, check the electrical, plumbing, roof, windows, siding, heating, and cooling systems. Functionality is vital in the kitchen and bathrooms. Clean and undamaged flooring is preferred. Neutral paint is best.

When house hunting, be open-minded and adjust your search criteria to find a home that meets your needs. Remember, sometimes it's worth living with something less than perfect for a while if it means being in the community you love.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Whether buying or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation.

Dealing with High Mortgage Rates and Housing Inflation

Is "Marry the house, date the rate" a good strategy?

"Marry the house, and date the rate" means committing to a home for the long term while refinancing the interest rate when it drops. Homeowners should carefully evaluate whether refinancing is worth it, considering the cost and the possibility that interest rates may not substantially decline in the near term.

The general rule of thumb is that a homeowner wants at least one percent lower interest rate before refinancing. Of course, the greater the interest rate drop, the shorter the time it takes to break even on refinancing costs. Whether it is worth doing depends on how long a homeowner plans to live in the home.

"Marry the House, Date the Rate" Becomes Popular with Rising Interest Rates

The saying "Marry the house, and date the rate" has become quite popular due to the rise in mortgage rates to a 20-year high. This phrase suggests that a home buyer should have a long-term commitment to the home they love, but they should refinance the interest rate when rates drop. While real estate agents and lenders often promote this phrase, is it a wise decision to follow?

Lenders introduced low-interest rates after the 2008 Great Recession to boost the economy. However, this has resulted in substantial inflation as borrowing became more affordable, leading to increased spending and, ultimately, higher prices. Inflation significantly contributes to the high home prices, with the current US rate reaching its highest since 1981. Considering the correlation between mortgage rates and inflation history is crucial, as interest rates play a vital role in managing inflation.

Buying now and refinancing when rates drop is a good approach though It's essential to be cautious about prioritizing the home over the interest rate.

Contact us today for a mortgage pre-approval or to schedule a consultation. Whether buying or selling a home on the Treasure Coast, we are always happy to meet with you to discuss your wants and needs with no obligation.