HOME BUYING INFORMATION
December 19, 2023
Over the past few years, Miami’s real estate market has been somewhat unique when compared to the average trends across the US. 2023 held some surprises that we didn’t see coming at the end of 2022. Everything else we’re about to tell you is our best prediction based on our experience as well as what we see other experts saying. Beware of any market forecasts that claim to know exactly what will happen and when – we haven’t seen anyone with a working crystal ball yet! Slow and Steady is the Name of the Game in 2024 We’re not anticipating any big or fast changes on the horizon. Expect to see home prices increasing gradually through at least the first […]
December 12, 2023
Maybe it’s because we’re in real estate, but a common conversation we have with people in January involves them telling us that this is going to be the last year they rent. With that in mind, we wanted to compile a little bit of advice for people who are gearing up to enter into homeownership and getting out of the rental cycle. A Home is a Solid Investment While you’re renting you’re essentially investing your money in your landlord’s real estate without getting any long term return. On the flip side, each mortgage payment you make is like adding money to your home’s equity piggy bank. It may seem like a little at a time, but it does add up […]
November 14, 2023
One of the under-recognized aspects of Miami (at least from people not from here) is how many different types of neighborhoods exist in Miami-Dade County. From Aventura to Homestead, you have literally every option available: from farming & country estates to high rise condos with direct ocean access. If you want to live in a park-like setting with large green yards, and plenty of common greenspaces that’s available. If you prefer a historic area with vintage architecture, Miami has it. If you want to live centrally with easy access to everything Miami-Dade County has to offer, but still have a yard and some space, Dadeland might be exactly what you’re looking for. Chic City Living Dadeland is a unique mixed-use […]
November 7, 2023
Miami is a great city to live in. We have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, vibrant culture, and lots of booming businesses just to name a few things. There are also plenty of options when it comes to what kind of home you choose. We talk about single family homes a lot, and there are some amazing homes here, but choosing the condominium life has some great perks for full time residents, snow birds, and investment buyers. Condo Living in Miami is More than Ocean Views When you think condos in Miami, most people will think of high rises with stunning views of the water. But there are plenty of condos across Miami-Dade that are more […]
October 24, 2023
Ready to start the process of buying a new home? One of the best steps you can take to strengthen your position as a serious buyer is to go through the process of pre-approval now. Having a pre-approval letter saves you time, and lets sellers know that any offer they receive from you is backed by the ability to obtain the necessary funding. What Exactly Is Pre-Approval? The short answer is that it is a lender’s preliminary assessment that determines the highest amount of money they would be willing to lend you for a mortgage. A final loan can’t be secured until you’ve chosen a specific property, but going through the parts of the process related only to your finances […]
October 17, 2023
There are so many factors to consider when you start trying to narrow down your search for a new home. Proximity to work, lot size, taxes, just the overall feel of an area are all things to look at. If you already have children, schools are likely near the top of your list. If you haven’t considered the schools in the neighborhoods you’re interested in here are some things to think about. Impact on Families Families with school-age children will no doubt already be thinking about the educational opportunities they’ll have in a new area. If your children are not yet old enough for school, moving near a great school will mean plenty of young families living nearby. Even if you haven’t started your […]
October 10, 2023
Listing your home for sale is a big step, especially if you’re a first-time seller. Working with experienced Realtors like The Kern Team means having help through the whole process. When it comes time to get your home ready to show at its best, you’ll be the one taking the lead. Take a Step Back Start at the curb in front of your home and do a walk through trying to see your home through the eyes of a prospective buyer. Curb appeal matters and you should consider it a part of getting your home ready for regular showings and open houses. It probably goes without saying that the yard should be neatly cut and edged. Make sure all landscaping has […]
September 26, 2023
If you’re looking for an idyllic small town feel without getting too far from downtown Miami, Palmetto Bay is for you. Directly adjacent to Biscayne Bay this city – marked by its signature blue street signs – was incorporated just over a decade ago. It has been dubbed “The Village of Parks” for good reason. Six park facilities offer recreation activities and preservation of the natural environment. Palmetto Bay is home to a new neighborhood library as well as excellent public and private schools. It’s a great place to be, and now is a good time to find your dream home. So, What’s the Market Doing? The market in Palmetto Bay is currently showing us a lot of stability. The […]
September 19, 2023
Making a great first impression is important, and for your home the best way to do that is by having top notch curb appeal. We’ve all seen that one house in any given neighborhood that just has the “wow” factor – your neighbors always slow down when they’re walking their dog to take it all in. Leveling up your home’s exterior increases its overall attractiveness – in person as well as in photographs – along with your property value. We’ve put together a list of ways to easily enhance your home’s curb appeal. You’ll invest some time if you DIY these, but if you don’t have the time, these still won’t bust your budget. A Fresh Coat of Paint A new paint […]