Blog

Home owners are more active in their communities, benefit from improved education opportunities, and report higher levels of self-esteem and happiness when compared to renters, according to leading research. A new report from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS, Social Benefits of Home ownership and Stable Housing, explores the impact of stable housing and the positive social outcomes resulting from home ownership. Home ownership is in investment in your future – home is where we make memories, build our lives and feel comfortable and secure,” said Vicki Cox Golder. Owning a home has long-standing government support in this country…

Florida’s law specifies certain provisions governing real estate deposits. A deposit is any money you put forward to affirm your will to pay for something in full. The amount and any restrictions on it are usually determined by the seller of the property in question. In real estate, deposits are generally required–and often non-refundable. Florida’s state law sets forth a number of regulations governing real estate deposits. Earnest Money: When you make an offer to purchase Florida real estate, you, as the buyer, will include an “earnest money” deposit. This deposit shows the seller that you’re serious about the offer to purchase…

Q. WHAT IS A “HOME INSPECTION”? A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical check-up. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector may recommend further action. Q. WHAT DOES IT INCLUDE? A property inspection report will review the condition of the home’s heating system, central air conditioning system, interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure. Q. WHY DO I NEED A HOME INSPECTION? The purchase of a home…

Once you have competitively bid moving companies and have made your selection you need to understand your rights as it relates to the service this company should provide. The U. S. Department of Transportation has provided the following guidelines. Bill of Lading The Bill of Lading is the contract between you and the mover. The mover is required by law to prepare a bill of lading for every shipment it transports. The information on the Bill of Lading is required to be the same information shown on the order for service. The driver who loads your shipment must give you…

RISMEDIA, June 16, 2010â The size of new single-family homes completed declined last year, dropping to a nationwide average of 2,438 square feet, according to detailed information about the characteristics of new homes completed in 2009 that was released recently by the Census Bureau. After increasing continually for nearly three decades, the average size of single-family homes completed in the United States peaked at 2,521 square feet in 2007. It was essentially flat in 2008, then dropped in 2009, so that new single-family homes were almost 100 square feet smaller in 2009 than in 2007. We also saw a decline in…

Most people will make one of the largest purchases they will make in their lifetimes when they buy a home. New homes fall into a special category and this article will focus on new home buying tips in this article, although many of these tips can equally be applied to any home purchase. Newly built homes, often in recently-developed communities, are regaining popularity and are more affordable than in years past. New home builders are using desirable, open floor plans and are helping buyers get into new homes despite the nationwide credit crunch. As with any major transaction, it’s critical that…

Below are tips for home buyers considering an investment in Florida real estate. 1. Consider the Cost of Hurricane Shutters Hurricane Shutters are not a small investment but will provide you with a discount on your homeowners insurance. When comparing properties remember to note which ones have full wind protection and the quality and ease of use of the shutters. 2. Remember Sprinkler Systems I am sure you are aware that it can get very hot in Florida. Homes need built in sprinkler systems to maintain the beauty of the landscaping. In ground sprinkler systems are almost standard on most South Florida homes,…

The term “Chinese Drywall” refers to drywall imported from China from 2001 to 2007 which emits sulfur gasses which usually (but not always) create a noxious odor and corrode copper and other metal surfaces, thereby damaging your air conditioner, electrical wiring, copper plumbing, appliances and electronics. Corrosion of electrical wiring can hamper the effectiveness of your smoke detection and can create a risk of fire. Chinese drywall is also very friable, which means it is in a state where small particles can easily become dislodged with little friction, thus enabling them to easily enter your lungs. For this reason, even…

ORLANDO, Fla. May 11, 2010 Sales of existing single-family homes in Florida rose 24 percent in first quarter 2010 compared to the same period a year earlier, according to the latest housing statistics from Florida Realtors. A total of 38,846 existing homes sold statewide in 1Q 2010; during the same period the year before, a total of 31,410 existing homes sold. It marks the seventh consecutive quarter that Florida has seen higher existing year-to-year home sales, according to the state association. Statewide sales of existing condominiums in the first quarter rose 67 percent compared to the same time the previous…