Real Estate
July 3, 2018
The cliché phrase, “location, location, location,” has been used more times than we can count when talking about buying real estate. And yet, ask any realtor – this one rings true. When you’re looking for your dream home, one of the most significant decisions you’ll have to make is which location you prefer. Location affects the affordability, value, and quality of life of a given neighborhood. The way to choose the right location for you and your family’s needs requires some serious thought as to your family’s priorities. So, here are a few things to keep in mind when searching for your perfect neighborhood: Your Lifestyle Before you start scoping out different neighborhoods, consider your current lifestyle. What do you […]
June 19, 2018
Many, but not all, home improvement projects will increase the value of your home. The big question is if they will improve your property value by more than the cost of the project. Deciding which renovations actually help your property value instead of just draining your account is a numbers game. How much will you spend renovating to make sure your house meets a future buyer’s expectations and what will you get in return? Which improvements add value, and which ones don’t matter as much? In the end, you should do renovations for yourself and see any increase in property value as an added bonus. That being said, I often get asked which home improvement projects boost your property value […]
March 20, 2018
There is nothing better than living right next to the ocean, which is why Miami is such a great place to live. But from the Beach to Homestead, there are a wide spectrum of options to choose from. Figuring out the perfect neighborhood for you takes looking at the market and seeing what is best for your family. For mine, Palmetto Bay was the best choice. Why Palmetto Bay? Just a quick drive down picturesque Old Cutler Road or the turnpike, Palmetto Bay is far enough away from downtown to allow for lush, over-sized lots but not too far away to make the drive unbearable. It’s great for families with school-aged children because of the great schools (both public and […]
March 13, 2018
Miami’s real estate market could turn into the Wild West thanks to the new tax law. The massive, complicated tax reform bill was signed into law on December 22, but nobody really knows yet what it will mean for the real estate market in Miami. There are parts of the bill that are clear, while other parts make less sense. This means that it wouldn’t be surprising for the law to undergo changes and corrections over the next few months and years. But, what can we expect the new tax law to impact so far? These impacts are pretty straightforward: A lower limit for the mortgage interest deduction The new tax law will affect the mortgage interest deduction that most […]
March 6, 2018
It’s such a blissful feeling to step into your brand-new home for the first time. In that moment, we forget about all the upkeep and maintenance that comes with homeownership. That realization will come later. Home maintenance can feel overwhelming chore but it doesn’t have to be. Following a regular schedule of preventative home maintenance is a simple and easy way to keep your house in tip-top shape. Just like regular oil changes for your car keep your engine running smoothly, regular maintenance around your house can prevent future disasters. So, what’s the best home maintenance plan? They don’t call it Spring cleaning without reason. Here’s a home maintenance checklist to make sure your home is ready when the high […]
February 27, 2018
For more than a century, we’ve been a fast-growing region because the rest of the country (and Canada too) decides to call it quits by February and move somewhere with better weather. In case you needed further encouragement, here’s why Miami should be on your mind: The weather Sunshine is great for your mood and overall outlook on life. South Florida has plenty of sunshine and warm weather to go around. Florida is known for getting the most hours of sunlight annually of any other state, which can be great for getting things done. What’s more: Miami summers are not as bad as their reputation. Getting a home with tree cover brings the temperature down by 10 degrees or more, […]
February 20, 2018
An earnest money deposit is a huge part of the home-buying process. It can help get you the house you want. With earnest money, you’re telling the seller that you’re serious and committed to buying their house. Without it, you risk losing your dream home to someone who provided earnest money. Earnest money does more than just show your good faith in a transaction; it also helps to fund your down payment. If everything goes as planned, the funds used for your deposit will go toward other closing costs and your down payment. Declaring your commitment to the seller with earnest money lets them know you mean business, so it’s important that you really understand what it is. Here are […]
February 13, 2018
Buying a home is all about negotiation. Even though you most likely have a realtor to help you through the process (link to previous blog), you should learn some solid research skills to prepare yourself for the negotiation. When you’re buying a house, you want the best price. To get the best deal on the home you’ve always dreamed of, you need to know how to negotiate, when to stick to your guns, and when to wave your white flag and surrender. Here are some tips to help you master your negotiation skills: Familiarize yourself with the market The No. 1 rule when beginning the home-buying process is to know your market. You’ll have a better chance at negotiating when […]