buying

October 29, 2024

When You Should Have a Pre-Approval Letter in the Buying Process

There are two types of letters you can get from a bank when you’re looking to buy a home: a pre-qualification letter and a pre-approval letter. Pre-qualification gives you a ballpark estimate on how much you’ll be able to borrow to buy a home, whereas a pre-approval is more detailed and says exactly how much you will be able to borrow. You should have a pre-approval letter before you are ready to make an offer on a home.  Why You Need a Pre-Approval Letter to Start the Buying Process For many first-time buyers, once they get their pre-approval letter from a mortgage banker, the process begins. While you can make an offer on a home with just a pre-qualification letter, it […]
March 21, 2023

Interest Rates are Affecting Miami’s Market – What You Need to Know

Higher interest rates are affecting real estate markets nationwide, and Miami can’t escape the impact fully.. That said, we are still enjoying one of the strongest markets in the country despite some cool-down. So, let’s talk about what you need to know no matter which side of the Miami market you’re on: buyer or seller. Where are We Now? The current average interest rate for mortgages is sitting just below 6.5%, but many of our lenders can do better than that. Feel free to ask us for a recommendation. This is the highest we’ve seen rates since the end of the year in 2007, so it feels high. However, it’s worth recalling that in the fall of 2000 it was right […]
August 23, 2022

What You Need to Know About Flood Zones When Buying a Home in Miami

When you’re looking to buy a home in Miami, one of the first things you should check is the flood zone of the property. Flood zones are areas that are more likely to experience flooding, and they’re important to know about because they can affect your insurance rates and your ability to get a mortgage.  While it’s important to look for flooding risks in your neighborhood – proximity to canals, for example – that’s not really what we’re talking about here. It’s checking what zone a property is in before you make an offer.  Buying a Home in a Flood Zone If you’re looking at homes in a flood zone, it’s important to talk to your insurance agent and lender […]
August 16, 2022

Why Impact Windows are So Important If You are Buying or Selling

If you live in Miami, impact windows are a must. Impact windows are made of impact-resistant glass and are held in place by a strong frame. They are designed to help protect your home from damage during a severe storm or hurricane. What’s more – not only will they protect your home and your family during hurricane season, but they will also help keep your energy bills low by keeping your home cool in the summer. Here are some other reasons why impact windows and doors are so important if you are buying or selling a home in Florida: They Increase the Value of Your Home If you are selling your home, impact windows will increase the value of your home. […]
March 16, 2021

Buying a Second Property for Rental Purposes

Real estate investment remains one of the best forms of speculation and in Miami this holds true. With real estate investments you can typically receive a predictable cash flow, a steady appreciation in value, equity buildup and many great tax benefits. If you’re deciding to buy a second home in Miami for rental purposes, it can be quite the sound investment.   In addition, even throughout the COVID-19 pandemic Miami population has continued to grow and real estate prices continue to rise. In fact, as more and more jobs went remote, young professionals and families have been making the move to Miami, mostly from northern cities, to enjoy the warmer weather and the lifestyle that our city brings. If you’re […]
June 25, 2014

Million Dollar Listings in Pinecrest

The Village of Pinecrest is one of Miami’s most highly sought after neighborhoods. Buyers come from all over the world for Pinecrest’s schools and location. Interested in a larger home in Pinecrest? Below are several of my listings. These listings offer a wide array of features that would work for buyers simply looking for land to build their home, or a brand new, well appointed, luxury estate. 10949 SW 59 Court : Stunning Mediterranean home in sought after Sanctuary in Pinecrest; a private enclave of just 12 homes. Enter this gorgeous 5 bed/4.5 bath estate through the wrought iron, ivy covered pergola. Formal living and dining rooms. Gourmet kitchen w/ subzero refrigerator, chef’s island, and stainless & gas appliances.  Soaring […]