Florida Real Estate

When purchasing a home with smart home technology, it is import for your Realtor to include a list of every item that conveys with the sale of the property in the sales contract. This includes everything from motorized shades to pool equipment and everything in between. Brand and models should be identified and any exclusions listed in detail to avoid any unexpected surprises at walk-through.

Some common devices include:

• Motorized shades/blinds (confirm number of units)
• Smart thermostats (e.g., Nest, Ecobee)
• Smart lighting systems (e.g., Philips Hue, Contol4, Lutron)
• Smart speakers (e.g., Sonos, Amazon Echo, Google Home)
• Smart doorbells (e.g., Ring, Nest)
• Smart security cameras (confirm number of units)
• Smart locks (ensure all keypads and physical keys are included)
• Smart garage door openers
• Pool equipment with smart features like automated cleaners, heaters, lighting, and more

Account Transfers and App Setup:

Once a smart home is sold, the new owner will need to take over the existing devices by linking them to their own accounts. Before closing, the seller should:

• Remove their accounts from all smart devices
• Reset all devices to factory settings
• Provide transfer instructions or QR codes to easily link the devices to the new owner’s accounts
• Release control of any associated apps (e.g., for smart speakers, doorbells, security systems, and pool equipment)

This step ensures that the buyer can smoothly take control of the home’s systems without relying on the previous owner’s settings or subscriptions.

It would be nice if the Sellers transfer any manuals and instructions. but in today’s world, everything is online and very little printed materials convey anymore. UTube is an excellent “how to” resource as well.

No devices ccan be set-up until you have internet and WIFI access. Make sure this is one of the first appointments you schedule post-closing.

Device Warranties & Service Contracts:

A smart home can come with long-term service agreements and warranties that should be transferred to the new owner. Sellers should:

• Transfer any active warranties or service contracts for smart devices and pool equipment to the buyer.
• Provide details on any subscriptions or paid services (e.g., security monitoring, cloud storage for cameras, or pool maintenance) and confirm when they expire or transfer.

By ensuring these contracts are smoothly handed over, the buyer will have peace of mind knowing that their new devices are fully supported.

Final Walkthrough: Test & Handover:

Before the sale is finalized, the seller or their listing agent should demonstrate how key smart devices work during the final walkthrough. This includes:

• Demonstrating how to control motorized shades, cameras, and audio systems
• Testing pool equipment, such as heaters, lighting, or automated cleaners
• Handing over physical remotes, control panels, and keypads related to smart systems

A hands-on demonstration is the best way to ensure that buyers feel confident using their new smart home features.

Filed under: apps, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, contracts, EBA, Energy efficiency, Energy efficient homes, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, home automation, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Homebuyer Advice, House Closings, Moving Apps, new home construction, Real Estate, Real Estate Closings, real estate news, Real estate trends, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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Florida Consumer Sentiment Climbs Again

Economic sentiment rose 3.1 points to 84.1 in June, with all five index components improving. The biggest gains were in views of personal finances.

Two New Property Insurers Approved

Two more property insurers have been approved to operate in Florida, bringing the total to 14 since recent reforms. Officials say the market is stabilizing.

Florida Sees Surge in Commercial Real Estate

Fueled by population gains, tax advantages and a strong economy, commercial real estate investment is rising across the state, experts say.

Florida Leads in International Home Sales

International buyers purchased 78,100 U.S. homes over 12 months, reflecting a 33.2% jump from the year before and the first increase since 2017.

Luxury Market Stronger Than Ever

Industry leaders say the high-end market, particularly for homes priced above $10M, is continuing to gain strength, with all-cash deals the norm.

Florida Sees Shift in New-Home Prices

Florida is among the top states seeing new construction price declines, creating potential opportunities for buyers as builders adjust to market conditions.

Florida Ranks High Among 2025 Movers

Florida continues to attract new residents, particularly Baby Boomers, in 2025, thanks to warm weather, no income tax and affordability.

Mortgage Giants to Count Crypto as Asset

Homebuyers may soon be able to use crypto as part of their mortgage qualifications, under a new order for federally backed loan programs.

Insurance Reforms Stabilizing Florida Market

A Florida consumer group says recent reforms have reduced litigation, lowered Citizens’ policies and attracted new insurers, helping stabilize the market.

Rate, Home Price Growth Forecasts Lowered

Fannie Mae now sees slower home price growth and slightly lower mortgage rates through 2026, with modest gains expected in overall home sales.

U.S. Home Prices Down 0.2% in May

The FHFA said prices are up 2.8% from last year across the United States. In the South Atlantic census division, which includes Florida, home prices increased 1.4%.

U.S. Consumer Confidence Improves in July

Americans remain concerned about tariffs, but confidence rose two points to 97.2 in July, up from 95.2 the previous month.

Filed under: Blog, Boca Raton real estate, COVID-19, Exclusive Buyer Agency, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, Home Buyers, Home Maintenance, Homebuyer Advice, Interior Design, Real Estate Closings, Refinancing by Kim Bregman
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It’s important to understand when buying new construction,  that the builder’s agent is primarily focused on securing the best deal for the builder, often at the expense of the homebuyer. Their role is to persuade you to purchase their homes at the highest price with minimal concessions. In contrast, as your Exclusive Buyer Agent, Optima Properties is dedicated to leveling the playing field.

Our mission is to advocate for your best interests, ensuring that you receive the best possible terms for your home purchase. We are here to negotiate on your behalf, providing you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to navigate this complex process with confidence. While the builder’s agent is legally bound to represent the builder, we prioritize your needs and work tirelessly to make your home buying experience smooth and enjoyable.

Benefits of Using an Exclusive Buyer Agent for New Construction:

1.  Compare and evaluate builders’ reputations and history of their construction quality and service
2. Help you compare and evaluate advantages and disadvantages of new construction homes vs. resale homes
3. Provide information about the community and compare and contrast with other new construction communities
4. Help buyer evaluate which options should be done by the developer during construction and which are more affordable to be done by an outside vendor post-closing.
5. Assist with design and structural selections that will optimize future resale value and livability.
6. Assist buyer evaluate the selection of a building lot and options. Lot location and certain options have a direct correlation to resale value.
7. Truly negotiate on behalf of the buyer. Many builders are offering “free” options and upgrades, but some are also making additional price concessions.
8. Review the Agreement of Sale (PA) prior to buyer signing. This is not a legal review (only an attorney can do that), but an experienced agent will be able to spot terms and conditions that are atypical and of potential concern to the buyer. The agent may then be able to negotiate terms and conditions that are more favorable to the buyer but still acceptable to the builder. Keep in mind most new construction contracts are written by attorneys that represent the developer and these contracts are therefore heavily weighted in favor of the builder.
9. Recommend a real estate attorney for final contract, title commitment and to hold your escrow funds.
10. A buyer’s agent serves as an extra set of ears as a witness at court or arbitration – When the builders sales representative is familiar with all rules, features and prices and it’s all new to buyer – it is good to have experienced person on buyer’s side listening with buyer and taking notes, a lot of information is verbalized in short period of time.
11. Attend the signing of the Agreement of Sale
12. Assist with the buyer’s financing and review financing paperwork. This is especially important if the builder is tying “free” options and upgrades to the use of a builder-affiliated lender.
13. Check on the property during construction and keep a photo record at different stages.
14. Be your leverage with the builder as problems arise during construction
15. Keep everything in writing – Sometimes even the very nicest builder makes verbal promises that later become a point of contention. An experienced buyer’s agent is conditioned and trained to “put it in writing” even though at the time it doesn’t seem necessary.
16. Arrange for a final inspection with a license building inspector and generate a “punch list” to be completed before final closing.
17. Document and help resolve any issues with construction, financing, title, etc. throughout the process.
18. Attend a pre-settlement walkthrough with the buyer to make sure that all items are satisfactorily completed or that a proper punch list is established to assure completion after settlement
19. Obtain and review a preliminary HUD-1 settlement statement to be sure it is accurate and advise the buyer of the amount needed for settlement.
20. Assist buyer with utilities, insurance, security and HOA requirements, decorators, service professionals, schools, et. al.
21. Attend final walk-through and settlement with the buyer.
22. A buyer’s agent will be there even after the home closes. It is routine for issues to arise during the first year of a new home. Site agents tend to forget a buyer’s name after the contract is signed.

But it’s important to remember the process of working with a builder is different than buying from a homeowner. And, while builders typically have sales agents on-site, having your own agent helps make sure you have proper representation throughout your home buying journey.

Filed under: Blog, Boca Raton real estate, contracts, COVID-19, Down Sizing, EBA, Energy efficient homes, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, HELOC deductions, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, home Inspections, Homebuyer Advice, Interior Design, Mortgage Interest Deductions, new home construction, Real Estate, Real Estate Closings, Real Estate Investment, real estate news, Real estate trends, Refinancing, Relocation, second home, South Florida Real Estate, Tax deductions by Kim Bregman
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Now that the clocks have SPRUNG AHEAD, it is an opportune moment to prioritize Spring Home Maintenance, a key aspect of maintaining your property and protecting your investment. As current homeowners, the condition of your home systems and property significantly impacts your overall living experience. Proactive home maintenance not only prevents minor issues from escalating into costly repairs but also reflects a commitment to pride in ownership.

A home and its contents represent substantial investments—whether in terms of financial resources or emotional attachment, ideally both. By dedicating time to thorough and proper cleaning, you can enhance the longevity of your belongings and finishes while fostering a cleaner, healthier living environment, free from dust, allergens, and unpleasant odors.

We recommend commencing your cleaning efforts from the top of each room and working your way down, as this method utilizes gravity to your advantage and ensures that no surface is overlooked, thus saving time and effort.

Tests and Replacements:

•  Test smoke alarms and replace batteries
•  Test carbon monoxide alarm
•  Check flashlight batteries
•  Check fire extinguishers
•  Change air filters
•  Check all window screens for tears and repair or replace as required

Overall Spring Cleaning Chores:

• Dust crown molding and baseboards and clean scuff marks
• Dust ceiling corners
• Dust/wash light fixtures and lamps
• Dust ceiling fans
• Wipe down doors and walls (Swiffer works great for removing all the dust)
• Touch up paint
• Vacuum or wash/dry clean window curtains and bedding
• Wash or dust window blinds
• Wash windows and screens inside and out
• Dust books and bookcases
• Polish wood furniture
• Wipe down and vacuum furniture (clean the base and under cushions)
• Condition leather furniture
• Remove stains from upholstered furniture
• Vacuum and wash lampshades
• Deep clean hardwood, tile, linoleum, and carpet flooring
• Shampoo carpet (DIY or schedule a professional)
• Remove area rugs to shake out, then vacuum, then clean under them
• Remove fingerprints and dirt from light switches and door handles
• Clean air vents
• Dust around and BEHIND mirrors, picture frames, and wall hangings
• Schedule termite or pest control maintenance

Spring Clean Outside:

• Sweep, power wash, and/or stain deck and patios
• Touch up paint trim, wood, doors, and shutters
• Oil hurricane shutters
• Power wash garage door and eaves of house
• Clean outside door frames
• Wipe away cobwebs
• Shake out entry mat
• Clean grill
• Clean and repair gutters
• Replace broken bricks, wood, or stone
• Clean outdoor light fixtures
• Clean outside patio furniture
• Trim trees, bushes and shrubbery
• Check and repair sprinklers
• Inspect roof
• Clean outdoor and indoor trash cans
• Clean out garage and sweep

Overall Home Maintenance Check-up:

• Inspect under sinks and behind appliances for signs of moisture buildup.
• Check ceilings and walls for discoloration possibly indicating hidden leaks.
• Check the water heater for rust or signs of corrosion, and flush it annually to prevent sediment buildup.
• Look for flickering lights or frequently tripped breakers, which could signal an overloaded circuit.
• Check for frayed wires or damaged outlets, especially in older homes.
• Never ignore a burning smell near outlets, which could indicate an electrical issue requiring immediate attention.
• Run faucets and flush unused toilets regularly to prevent clogs and dry U-joints
• Check for slow drains and clear minor clogs before they worsen.
• Inspect washing machine hoses for cracks; replacing them every 3-5 years can prevent major leaks.
• Clear out leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters to ensure proper drainage.
• Make sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
• Repair or reattach loose gutters before storm season.
• Seal cracks in driveways and sidewalks to prevent water damage and erosion.
• Ensure proper drainage to avoid standing water near your home.
• Look for cracks or gaps in siding and caulk them to prevent moisture intrusion.
• Check windows and doors for damaged seals, which could potentially let water in during heavy rains.
• Touch up peeling or cracked paint, which can expose surfaces to weather damage.

These essential home maintenance tips for Florida homeowners will help prevent costly damage and keep everything running smoothly so you can sit back and enjoy life in the Sunshine State.

Filed under: Blog, contracts, COVID-19, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Real Estate, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, home Inspections, Home Maintenance, Homebuyer Advice, real estate news, second home, South Florida Real Estate, Spring Cleaning by Kim Bregman
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Tariffs, particularly on building materials like lumber, steel, and appliances, are expected to increase construction costs and potentially lead to higher home prices, impacting both new home construction and renovations.

Redfin reported that instability caused by the new tariffs will almost certainly cause volatility in mortgage rates and make the path of rate cuts from the Federal Reserve (previously forecasted as two or three 25-basis point reductions) more uncertain. Short-term economic damage is also expected to push up unemployment and inflation.

Chen Zhao, who leads the Redfin economic team, said that the odds of a recession in the next 12 months rose from 15% at the start of 2025 to 40% after the latest tariffs.

Tariffs are causing:

·      Increased Construction Costs:

Tariffs on imported building materials, such as lumber, steel, and appliances, are expected to drive up the cost of these materials, leading to higher construction costs.

·      Higher Home Prices:

The increased construction costs are likely to be passed on to consumers in the form of higher home prices, making it more difficult for potential buyers to afford homes.

·      Impact on Homebuilders:

Homebuilders are facing the challenge of rising material costs, which could lead to reduced profit margins or even delays in construction projects.

·      Supply Chain Disruptions:

Tariffs could disrupt the supply chains for building materials, potentially leading to shortages and further price increases.

Affordability Concerns:

The combination of rising home prices and mortgage rates could exacerbate affordability concerns for potential homebuyers, especially those in the middle-class.

·      Renovation Costs:

Tariffs could also impact the cost of home renovations, as imported materials and fixtures become more expensive.

• The National Association of Home Builders estimates that the cost of building materials has already risen by 34% since December 2020, far higher than the rate of inflation.
• Builders estimate a typical cost effect from recent tariff actions at $9,200 per home.
• Some experts predict that household fixtures, such as appliances, lighting, and cabinetry, could increase 10-20%.

That larger economic picture might be the biggest indirect threat to housing, as consumers pull back from big decisions like buying or selling homes. Overall, annual home sales have failed to recapture a significant post-pandemic reduction, which was characterized by some economists as a “housing recession.”

But economists have also largely attributed the relative resilience of the housing markets over the last couple years to a strong labor market. A recession with a significant uptick in unemployment would certainly have a major impact on housing.

Filed under: Blog, contracts, COVID-19, EBA, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, HELOC deductions, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, home Inspections, Homebuyer Advice, Mortgage Interest Deductions, new home construction, Real Estate, real estate news, Real estate trends, South Florida Real Estate, Tarrifs by Kim Bregman
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Homeownership comes with several tax benefits that can help reduce your federal income tax bill. Some of the key 2024 homeowner tax advantages( deductions and credits) available to homeowners include:

1. Mortgage Interest Deduction – You can deduct interest paid on your mortgage for your primary residence (and sometimes a second home) up to a limit ($750,000 for loans taken after Dec. 15, 2017; $1 million for older loans). Roby Online Casino has emerged as a popular destination for gamers seeking a thrilling online gambling experience. With a sleek interface and a variety of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options, Roby has something for everyone. Players can enjoy a generous welcome bonus and numerous promotional offers that enhance their gaming experience. One standout feature is the casino’s commitment to user safety and security, ensuring that player data and transactions are protected. The website is also mobile-friendly, allowing users to enjoy their favorite games on the go. For more details about games, bonuses, and payment options, you can visit https://robycasinologin.com/. Overall, Roby Online Casino combines entertainment with security, making it a great choice for both new and seasoned players alike. Explore the exciting world of online gaming today!

   You will find a summary of your mortgage interest payments on Form 1098, which lenders send out around the end of January.

2. Property Tax Deduction – You can deduct up to $10,000 ($5,000 if married filing separately) in state and local taxes (SALT), which includes property taxes.

   Those who take advantage of the SALT deduction have to choose between income and sales tax – you can’t deduct both.

3. Mortgage Points Deduction – If you paid discount points to lower your mortgage interest rate when purchasing or refinancing, you may be able to deduct them.

4. Home Office Deduction – If you use part of your home exclusively for business, you may qualify for a home office deduction.

5. Energy-Efficient Home Credits – Homeowners who install energy-efficient improvements (like solar panels, insulation, or energy-efficient windows) may qualify for tax credits.  If you’ve installed new energy equipment to your home like solar panels, you may be eligible for the Residential Clean Energy Credit. That credit is worth 30% of the costs of new, qualified clean energy property that’s installed anytime from 2022 through 2032. There’s also the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit which covers upgrades that reduce home energy use. Improvements like insulation, central air conditioners and exterior doors may qualify. It’s a 30% credit up to $1,200 for changes made between 2023 and 2032.There’s even a credit available for installing electric vehicle recharging equipment at your home. The federal tax credit for EV chargers is worth 30% of the costs of the qualifying equipment, up to $1,000 per charging port.

6. Capital Gains Exclusion – If you sell your primary home, you can exclude up to $250,000 in gains ($500,000 for married couples) from taxable income, as long as you meet ownership and use requirements.

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8. Necessary Home Improvements – According to the IRS, an improvement must add to the value of your home, prolong its useful life or adapt it to new uses.  Generally, capital improvement expenses are depreciated over time, meaning the full cost of the change is divided by its useful life, and that’s the amount you can deduct in a given year.

This article should not be construed as professional tax advice. You need to consult with your professional tax advisor before filing your return.

Filed under: Blog, closing costs, Energy efficiency, Energy efficient homes, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, HELOC deductions, Home Buyer Advice, Home decorating, Homebuyer Advice, Mortgage Interest Deductions, new home construction, Real Estate Investment, Tax deductions by Kim Bregman
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Most people relocate to South Florida for a few reasons. Retirement, job opportunity, second home, tax savings, lifestyle, and to be closer to family to name just a few.

Relocating to a new state or region can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to settling into an unfamiliar community. Whether you’ve moved locally before or this is your first big relocation, there’s more to it than just packing boxes and changing addresses.   Finding the right city or neighborhood will make all the difference in your satisfaction with your decisions.

Here are a few  key tips to help make the relocation transition smoother, from using online resources to connecting with locals, so you can start feeling at home before you even move.

If you have moved locally before, you know the bureaucracy that comes with every move:

• Change your address on your driver’s license and other ID
• Register to vote, if you are a citizen or becoming a Florida resident
• Move your utility services to the new location
• File a post office change of address
• Register your children in the local school
• Find new doctors…and more

Just like when you are moving locally, there will be lifestyle activities that you should explore before moving:

• What is the commute between work and home, school and home?
• Does the new location have access to activities you enjoy now?
• Where are the religious or social centers like those you belong to now?

How to explore potential places that I’ll enjoy in the new region.

Use Internet Resources: Start by seeking out the types of local information you rely on now, but specific to your new location.

Explore online news outlets like THE PATCH or local newspapers.  Join local social media groups, which often give a sense of the community. Just like in your current area, you’ll find a mix of people—some helpful, some not—but these groups can offer valuable insights.

Check out religious and cultural organizations that align with your interests. Their websites often list their mission and activities calendars, which can help you connect with like-minded people even before you arrive. Many also offer newsletters or online communication platforms that are great for staying in the loop. Research schools, crime statistics, demographic information, weather and more to fully understand how a move will impact your way of life.

Networking: Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues if they know anyone in your new area. Personal introductions can be invaluable in helping you get settled and learn more about your new community.

Pre-move Vacation: Consider spending a week or two in your new town or city to get a feel for the place. Use this time to meet with people who can assist with your move and try out activities you already enjoy—whether it’s sports, theater, religious services, hiking, or even attending a local event. Engaging in these activities will help you connect with locals and give you a sense of whether the area aligns with your lifestyle.

Consider a Two-Step Move: Evaluate whether it’s less stressful to rent for a year before buying a home. Each approach has its own benefits, costs, and challenges. Renting allows you to test the waters, while buying right away offers a sense of permanence—but either way, the decision should be based on your comfort level and finances.

Develop a Relationship with a Local Exclusive Buyer’s Agent: A local exclusive buyer’s agent is a valuable resource when moving to a new area. They have in-depth knowledge of the region and can guide you to community activities and resources that will ease your transition. Their expertise can help you navigate your home search while also connecting you with local networks.

Filed under: Blog, Boca Raton real estate, CEBA, Down Sizing, EBA, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, Foreign Home Buyers, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Homebuyer Advice, International Home Buyers, Moving Apps, new home construction, Real Estate, real estate news, Relocation, Retirement, second home, South Florida Real Estate, vacation home by Kim Bregman
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With the recent “disasters” nationwide, it has become clear to me that very few homeowners understand that they need to ensure that their policies cover replacement cost for their homes.  To ensure that you can rebuild your house at the current market costs and codes, you MUST have replacement cost valuations and insurance coverages.

Whether you are dealing with missing tiles on the roof or a collapsed ceiling, knowing how replacement cost works can mean the difference between making do with quick fixes or restoring your home to its original condition.

Replacement cost is an option you usually choose when purchasing or renewing your homeowner’s insurance policy. It’s one way of valuing the property being insured – so it will affect how much your insurance pays out for a covered claim. Depending on the insurer and the policy you are getting, you may be able to choose replacement cost when insuring your home and roof (the dwelling itself), unattached structures (such as a shed, fence, detached garage, and pool), and your personal property (furniture, electronics, clothing, etc.).

Let’s say a hurricane sweeps through your neighborhood and leaves you with a seriously damaged roof. If your roof is covered at replacement cost in your policy, it means just what those words imply: Your roof will be covered for the amount of money it takes to repair/replace the damaged roof – using new material, of a similar kind and quality as your existing roof, without subtracting any depreciation based on the age and condition of your roof prior to the hurricane. In other words, replacement cost is about getting you back to the way things were, as if no storm had ever happened.

Choosing replacement cost in your home insurance policy for your dwelling and personal property is all about giving you enough to actually replace what you lost, whether it’s your roof, furniture, or the entire home.

How Is ‘Replacement Cost’ Different From ‘Actual Cash Value’?

While replacement cost gives you enough to rebuild or replace your items as new, actual cash value factors in depreciation. This means you’ll get the current value of your items – after subtracting certain amounts based on the property’s age, condition, and how outdated or obsolete it is at the time of the loss. The actual cash value approach might save you some money up front, on insurance premiums – but when it comes time to file a claim, it can leave you filling in the gap to fund repair costs

What About ‘Stated Value’?

Another valuation method is stated value. This is when you and your insurer agree on a specific value for your home or certain parts of it – such as your roof or certain high-value items – before any damage occurs. Then, when you make a claim, you’ll be reimbursed for the already agreed-upon value of the property. It’s a straightforward valuation method and it eliminates any haggling over depreciation during the claims process.

Why Replacement Cost Matters

In South Florida, natural disasters are a part of life. Between hurricanes, tropical storms, and the occasional fire, having the right kind of insurance coverage can make or break your ability to rebuild after a disaster.

With replacement cost coverage, you know you’ll have the funds to get back to normal. The difference in payout could run in the thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.  You need to evaluate your risk tolerance and financial ability to restore your property to determine which level of insurance coverage is best for you.

Filed under: Blog, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Homebuyer Advice, Homeowners Insurance, Hurricane Preparedness, Insurance Claims, Real Estate, real estate news, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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People relocate to South Florida for a few reasons; retirement, job opportunity, second home, tax savings, lifestyle, and to be closer to family to name just a few.

Relocating to a new state or region can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to settling into an unfamiliar community. Whether you’ve moved locally before or this is your first big relocation, there’s more to it than just packing boxes and changing addresses.   Finding the right city or neighborhood will make all the difference in your satisfaction with your decisions.

Here are a few  key tips to help make the transition smoother, from using online resources to connecting with locals, so you can start feeling at home before you even relocate.

If you have moved locally before, you know the bureaucracy that comes with every move:

• Change your address on your driver’s license and other ID
• Register to vote, if you are a citizen or becoming a Florida resident
• Move your utility services to the new location
• File a post office change of address
• Register your children in the local school
• Find new doctors…and more

Just like when you are moving locally, there will be lifestyle activities that you should explore before moving:

• What is the commute between work and home, school and home?
• Does the new location have access to activities you enjoy now?
• Where are the religious or social centers like those you belong to now?

How to explore potential places that I’ll enjoy in the new region.

Use Internet Resources: Start by seeking out the types of local information you rely on now, but specific to your new location.

Explore online news outlets like THE PATCH or local newspapers.  Join local social media groups, which often give a sense of the community. Just like in your current area, you’ll find a mix of people—some helpful, some not—but these groups can offer valuable insights.

Check out religious and cultural organizations that align with your interests. Their websites often list their mission and activities calendars, which can help you connect with like-minded people even before you arrive. Many also offer newsletters or online communication platforms that are great for staying in the loop. Research schools, crime statistics, demographic information, weather and more to fully understand how a move will impact your way of life.

Networking: Start by asking friends, family, or colleagues if they know anyone in your new area. Personal introductions can be invaluable in helping you get settled and learn more about your new community.

Pre-move Vacation: Consider spending a week or two in your new town or city to get a feel for the place. Use this time to meet with people who can assist with your move and try out activities you already enjoy—whether it’s sports, theater, religious services, hiking, or even attending a local event. Engaging in these activities will help you connect with locals and give you a sense of whether the area aligns with your lifestyle.

Consider a Two-Step Move: Evaluate whether it’s less stressful to rent for a year before buying a home. Each approach has its own benefits and challenges. Renting allows you to test the waters, while buying right away offers a sense of permanence—but either way, the decision should be based on your comfort level and finances.

Develop a Relationship with a Local Exclusive Buyer’s Agent: A local exclusive buyer’s agent is a valuable resource when moving to a new area. They have in-depth knowledge of the region and can guide you to community activities and resources that will ease your transition. Their expertise can help you navigate your home search while also connecting you with local networks.

Filed under: Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Down Sizing, EBA, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, Foreign Home Buyers, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Homebuyer Advice, International Home Buyers, Moving Apps, Real Estate, Relocation, Retirement, second home, South Florida Real Estate, Tax deductions, Uncategorized, vacation home by Kim Bregman
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A new Florida law requires people who sell their home must disclose to buyers if they’ve ever filed a flood insurance claim or received federal assistance related to flood damage. It currently applies to homeowners and excludes landlords.

Before HB-1049, property owners and real estate agents selling homes in Florida did not have to tell buyers about a property’s risk for flooding.

It is no secret that Florida has a history of extreme weather and flooding. Nevertheless, sellers were not required to disclose the flood tendencies and risks associated with their homes prior to October 1, 2024. Enter HB 1049, which bridges this gap by requiring explicit flood disclosures in real property sales.

Sellers must inform buyers of the following:

• Flood insurance disclaimer. The form clarifies that homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood-related damage and encourages buyers to secure separate flood insurance.

• Flood claims and assistance. Sellers must disclose whether they have filed claims or received federal assistance for flood damage, including from FEMA or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

For the purposes of the disclosure, the bill defines “flooding” as the general or temporary overflow of inland or tidal waters, surface water accumulation, or sustained standing water from rain.

Property insurance and flood insurance are two separate policies. I have always advised my clients to purchase flood insurance regardless of whether or not their home is in a FEMA designated flood zone. Weather in Florida is unpredictable and with climate change, more areas that never were prone to flooding can now be in a situation where there is historical rain fall in a short period of time.  Since we are at sea level, there is no place for the water to quickly disburse and will rise in the streets and lakes.

HB 1049 signals a change in the tides for the Florida real estate market, offering buyers a clearer view of potential flood risks and fostering much-needed transparency in residential property sales.

Filed under: Blog, Boca Raton real estate, EBA, Exclusive Buyer Agency, Flood Insurance, Florida Buyer Agent, Florida Exclusive Buyer Agent, Florida Real Estate, Florida real estate law, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Homebuyer Advice, Homeowners Insurance, Hurricane Preparedness, Insurance Claims, real estate news, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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