Working with a Real Estate Agent Who is a REALTOR®

Buying a home is more challenging than it seems. It involves many steps, which is why working with a real estate agent who is a REALTOR® is highly recommended.

These professionals help clients understand the home-buying process and their budgets, search for suitable properties, and serve as local housing market experts, providing information on price trends, negotiation trends, and community. They also arrange tours of homes and/or neighborhoods, decipher public property and tax information, and navigate state and federal forms.

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Working with a REALTOR®

A real estate agent who is a REALTOR® also researches mortgage rates, terms, and reputable lenders, coordinates with lenders, steers important contract deadlines, and guides walk-throughs before closing to ensure the property's condition is satisfactory. They work with necessary parties to ensure all contractual terms are completed by closing, advocating for the buyer throughout the process and reviewing the buyer's closing statement to ensure accuracy.

Your Realtor will provide all the necessary information to live comfortably in your new home. They will ensure that all required actions are completed and will continue to be a trusted advisor throughout the closing process and beyond. This should be a celebration rather than a source of stress.

Moreover, a real estate agent who is a REALTOR® researches home information that aligns with buyers' interests, prepares the buyer to have the most attractive offer in the current marketplace, coordinates professional home inspections, consultations with lenders, and necessary property assessments, develops competitive offers, negotiates the best price and terms, represents clients' best interests, advises throughout the negotiation process and closing the deal, steward multiple parties and schedules to save the buyer time, and looks beyond décor, flooring, and paint colors to other significant aspects of the home.

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 a fun competition with your partner or children.

You can also keep a charity basket in a central location, like the laundry room, where everyone 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.

Prepare Your Home for Real Estate Photography

The photo shoot is one of the first steps in getting your home on the market. Good pictures (and videos) are essential for gaining online exposure that attracts potential buyers to your house.

Make Your Property Stand Out From the Rest!

To produce top-notch photos and videos of your home, it is crucial to have a clean and clutter-free living space. During the shoot, it's best to remove any religious, political, or highly personal items. Equally important is the exterior of the house. To guarantee a successful shoot and enhance the property's "curb appeal" for potential buyers, ensure that the landscaping is tidy, walkways are pressure-washed, and the yard is well-maintained.

The following checklist will help you prepare your home for the photoshoot. While not all-inclusive, it provides a good starting point to help get your home "picture perfect".

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"If the selling process seems daunting, we're here to help. So schedule a call today to learn more about how we market homes to buyers for sellers on Florida's Treasure Coast."

Eric Slifkin has authored this post, a Broker Associate at Keller Williams Real Estate and the Slifkin Real Estate Team founder. Eric and his experienced agents serve South Florida and the Treasure Coast, including  Stuart, Hobe Sound, Palm City, Port Saint Lucie, Jupiter, Tequesta, and the Palm Beaches.

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5 Tips for Considering a Second Home in Florida

If you've ever dreamed of owning a second home in Florida, it's never too early to begin planning how to make that dream a reality.

Treasure Coast to Palm Beaches Homes for Sale

Here are a few essential factors to help you develop a solid strategy.

1. Determine your purpose for buying a second home. Are you looking for a family vacation spot or a place to retire? Do you plan to rent it out for supplemental income? Each situation has unique requirements, including location, tax implications, and amenities.

2. Choose the location of your second home carefully. Many people buy second homes in Florida for seasonal reasons, such as escaping the cold during winter. However, deciding where you want to be and whether the location is convenient for you and your family is essential. If you're planning on having guests, consider whether the location is easy to reach for them.

3. Consider the maintenance required for your second home. While you might have your heart set on a beachfront condo or an estate home in a club community, remember that these homes can come with steep HOA fees and maintenance costs. If you want to avoid these expenses, you may want to consider a smaller home or a condo with fewer amenities.

4. Figure out your financing options. If you haven't already, take the time to review your financial situation and determine how you'll finance your second home. Getting a mortgage for a second home can be challenging, and some buyers pay in cash. Ensure a solid financial plan regardless of how you plan to pay for it.

5. Understand the tax implications of owning a second home. Depending on how you use your second home, it can impact your tax situation in different ways. For example, if you plan to rent it out, you may be subject to different tax rules than using it solely as a personal residence. It's essential to stay up-to-date on tax laws and review your strategy periodically with your accountant.

If you want to buy a second home in Florida, I'm here to help! Let's talk about what's on the market and find the perfect home for you.

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A small move in mortgage rates can make a big difference in your life-of-loan interest payments. And we just had a BIG move in mortgage rates. So let's talk about your next move.  Get in touch

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, offers a variety of 55+ communities. Our team of local experts can help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle, whether you're seeking an active social scene or a peaceful retreat. Start enjoying your golden years in Port Saint Lucie today! 

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. Although designed for older adults, senior lifestyle communities typically do not offer on-site medical care, personal care assistance, or communal dining as part of 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 primary appeal for many, is that all your neighbors are around the same age and ability level, and are likely in the same life stage. Additionally, senior lifestyle communities handle exterior maintenance for residents and may offer assistance with interior work, thereby relieving some of the stress associated with traditional homeownership. Active adult communities are also frequently equipped with senior-friendly features, such as grab bars and single-floor living, to help residents stay safe without requiring modifications to their homes. 

Several different types of communities and residences fall under the umbrella of "55+ communities." Retirement communities each have their own unique feel and may comprise apartments or condos, townhomes, single-family homes, or a combination of these. 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 appear to be any other apartment complex. Senior apartments are rental units reserved for adults aged 55 or older, or in some cases, 62 or older. These buildings typically do not offer many amenities beyond common areas for residents to socialize or a fitness center, and most do not provide communal dining facilities. However, many organize social interest groups and on-site social events for residents to facilitate the formation of 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 they contain a mix of housing styles, ranging from single-family homes to duplexes and condos. Rather than occupying a single building, senior lifestyle communities often span several acres and feature recreational facilities, such as pools or tennis courts. 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. Although some residents may have their own yards, the community typically handles outdoor maintenance, offering older adults 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 offer 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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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.