HOME BUYING INFORMATION
February 13, 2024
When it’s time to jump into the real estate market – as a buyer or seller – you need an experienced Realtor to be your guide. Finding someone who understands the nuances of the Miami market makes a big impact on your overall experience and result. Miami’s real estate market is massive, complex, and always moving, which is why longevity in the Miami area is one of the most important qualities to look for. We’re here with some tips for questions to ask and what green flags to look for. Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions Through the years we’ve noticed that sometimes people shy away from asking interview-style questions when they’re choosing a professional to work with. We want to be […]
January 16, 2024
Is there a better vacation destination than Miami? We’ll admit to being biased, but we think this is the best city for living and vacationing. Buying a vacation home is a way to do both. People are drawn here for many different reasons; vibrant nightlife, gorgeous beaches, and a rich culture are a blend of all the people who have made their lives here over time. The idea of a vacation home is exciting, and The Kern Team is here to guide you through the process. What Does Your Ideal Vacation Look Like? One of the most important considerations when looking for your vacation home is the location. Miami is full of unique neighborhoods that each have their own personality. Your […]
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 […]