Miami luxury real estate

Selling Your Home in a Buyers Market

The news headlines lately are full of less than encouraging news about the housing market. The market is showing signs of stabilizing, so obviously some home owners are successfully selling their houses! Following are some basic guidelines for selling your home in a challenging market.

After deciding you want or need to sell your home, you will probably want to find a good real estate agent to assist you to market and sell your home. A good agent is knowledgeable about the local market very well. Hopefully he/she has been working for a long time in your area, understands what features sell and why, and networks with local people and businesses to get their listings sold.

A good licensed real estate agent will have numerous marketing strategies to get your home sold in their bag of tricks. Other than word of mouth, they will likely utilize newspaper ads, fliers, and most importantly, the internet, specifically the Multiple Listing Service. More and more home shoppers are going online to comparison shop before they even drive around, so it is vital that your agent not only list your home on the Multiple Listing Service, at the very least, but also provide photos and perhaps videos of your home to entice buyers inside.

Once you have decided on a local agent to work with, it is your job now to get your home in show-worthy condition. Your agent will give you tips on what you can do to make your home appealing, but there are some specific things you can do that will get you the most money and sell your home faster:

Clean, clean, and clean some more. A dirty home is difficult to sell. You would think it doesn’t matter because you won’t be living there, but it does. If your home is dirty then a buyer will think you probably don’t take care of it. That’s not the message you want to send out. Also, a dirty home is not inviting, and atmosphere is everything for most potential home buyers.

Store your clutter. Put half of your personal items in storage. You want your home to look more like a model home, which means remove your personal pictures and personal care items that might make people uncomfortable. You want them to envision themselves in the house; not yourself and your family. This is especially important in rooms like the kitchen and bathroom where space is important.

Freshen up with paint. This is an inexpensive and relatively easy way to make your home more attractive. Neutral colors sell best.

Curb appeal. Stand outside your home and try to imagine how your home looks to a total stranger. Overgrown plants, poorly kept lawns, trash, debris, even toys should be removed. Your yard should appear well maintained if you want your house to appear inviting. Consider adding flower pots for color if you are listing your home during the growing season.

Home Staging. Professional home stagers make sure that a home appears clean, uncluttered, and visually ready for a buyer to picture themselves in your house. Why not check out a book from the library, or watch one of the home staging shows on TV for some tips on how to stage your home?

Remember that selling your home in a competitive market is possible…it just takes effort and determination on your part!

Luxury Real Estate in Southern Florida Brings in-depth market knowledge and the resources of EWM and Christie’s Great Estates, plus local expertise and global network access to your real estate transaction. This article powered by SEO 2.0 Services

Miami luxury real estate

The Joy of Historic Home Ownership

What Defines an “Historic Home?”
It is interesting to note that the National Registry of Historic Places requires a home to be at least 50 years old and look much the same as it did when built. In addition to having the authentic architectural character of a home built in its period, the historic home also has a cultural significance. Moreover, municipal and state rules may amend the national rules to include other components.

Why are home buyers drawn to Historic Homes?
Many people are drawn to the details found in historic homes, whether those be nooks and crannies or ornate woodwork. Some buyers may be awed by the fact that they might live in the former home of a poet, artist or famous explorer once called home.

Of course, there are also the more tangible benefits of potentially receiving federal preservation grant monies, investment tax credits, state tax breaks, reduced property tax rates, and potentially a bronze plaque from the National Register of Historic Places that displays your home’s historic significance to the world.

Is Restoration Difficult?
Restoring an historic home can be very different than remodeling any other kind of house. That being said, the restoration will not necessarily be overly costly or time consuming. First and foremost, you need to understand what the rules are with respect to restoring historic homes. You may not be able to use more modern building materials or even use color schemes that upset the integrity of the structure’s appearance. Fortunately, there are a many contractors well versed in working on historic homes. There are sometimes grant monies available to bankroll the work, helping to offset the actual costs of restoration.

Appreciating the Value of Historic Homes
Similar to owning an antique, the value of historic homes does not necessarily drop with the occasional nick or scratch. Even those properties which feature electrical wiring that is hopelessly antiquated and violate virtually any building code known in your municipality, can have a relatively high value.

You do need to be aware of old plumbing and electrical systems that could compromise the safety of dwelling in one of these historic homes. This type of repair can be costly as well, since it frequently involves replacement of entire systems.

Buying Restored vs. Needing Restoration
A turnkey historic home is a tempting proposition. The hard work of locating period dcor, door knobs, paint and other detail fixtures, is done by someone else. All you need to do is move in your furniture and enjoy the experience. While buying restored may be easier, it is also the path of maximum upfront expenditure.

Buying a historic home in need of restoration can lower the sales price of the home; however, costly surprises can be around the corner unexpected repairs become disclosed or restorations are more extensive and costly than anticipated. Each path has a number of pros and cons, and choosing one over the other really depends on your comfort level and availability of funds.

Never Buy Without Inspections – What Types Are Available and Why Are They Important?
Because of its age, a potential home buyer should never overlook an inspection on an historic homes. Home inspectors specializing in historic properties can usually ascertain which wear and tear is to be expected, and which point to unfettered decay and costly restoration requirements. Even old technology – such as a home’s heating system – can be in tiptop working condition – though you might prefer to replace it to a more energy efficient system.

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Miami luxury real estate

Additional Costs to Close a Mortgage

The most important question a home buyer asks is “How much can I afford?” A buyer needs to know the maximum purchase price of homes that they should be looking at. Smart Miami buyers know that there are closing costs involved in the purchase of a house, above and beyond the purchase price. Your team of professionals, including a lender, possibly an attorney and a real estate broker should be able to ensure that the only surprises at closing are pleasant ones.

Following are normal closing costs that might be included with your property purchase. These costs can be state specific, and even county specific, so be sure to talk with your lender about which of these costs apply to you.

Lender Fees – Fees will vary by lender, so in addition to shopping for the best rate and terms for a loan, you should also pay attention to additional lender costs. The fees that might be assessed by your lender and other parties can include:

Underwriting fee Administrative fee Points (cost to buy down the rate) Flood certification fee (to determine if the property is located in a flood zone) Tax collection fee (to make sure they are notified of property taxes due and paid Origination fee

Appraisal: In most cases, an appraisal will be required to determine, as accurately as possible, the actual value of the property you are purchasing.

Credit Report: All lenders will require a credit report. Many lenders use what is known as a “tri-merge report.” The charge for this report is minimal and is often expected to be paid up front.

There are also fees assessed by a Title Company or Transfer Agent, in addition to special fees that may be charged by your city, county and state.

Deed and Mortgage Documentary Stamps: Documentary stamps could be assessed for recording the deed with the county. A second set of documentary stamps might be assessed for recording the mortgage.

Intangible Tax: The actual mortgage is considered intangible property which could also be taxed. This tax for the mortgage is assessed similarly to the doc stamps, except that it is calculated on the loan amount.

Recording Fees: The County assessor charges you for each page of the documents needed to record your deed.

Title Insurance and Escrow Fees: Title Insurance protects you and the lender. It guarantees clear title to the property at the time the loan closes. The Title Company will also very likely charge an escrow fee to pay for their services. Additional escrow and title fees are not unusual.

In some states, an attorney may be involved in the closing process, instead of, or in addition to a title company.

In addition to closing costs, there are often other charges that are known as “pre-paid” expenses. These can include property insurance, property taxes, and accrued interest.

You should expect a Good Faith Estimate of all closing costs and fees, within 3 days of applying for your loan. As a general rule, you should expect your total closing costs to average between 1% – 3% of the total loan amount.

Luxury Real Estate in Southern Florida brings in-depth local knowledge and the resources of EWM and Christie’s Great Estates, plus local experience and international network access to your real estate transaction. This article powered by SEO 2.0 Services

Miami luxury real estate

Your Family Vacation In Miami

While Miami has a reputation for being a pretty wild town, it is also family oriented with plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the destinations to see in Miami that you and your family definitely want to enjoy.

Top Miami Tourist Attractions

As the most culturally diverse city in the state of Florida, there are things to see and do in Miami to suit every taste. Of course, South Beach has long been known to be the place to be in Miami, but some families might find the atmosphere to be a little too wild for younger children. Other well known tourist attractions in Miami include the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and the beautiful and historic Venetian Pool. For a much needed break from the busy urban setting of Miami, consider making a quick day trip over to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. The park has a stunning lighthouse that has been there for nearly 200 years and plenty of hiking and biking trails.

Family Fun at Miami Beaches

Of course, no family trip to Miami would be complete without a visit to the coast. However, it is important for new visitors to Miami to know that some local beaches are more family friendly than others. Two perfect seaside destinations that are appropriate for the whole clan include Matheson Hammock and Crandon Park Beach, both of which offer safe lagoons that are perfect for small children. For families with teenage children, the atmosphere at South Beach might be more appropriate, but be sure to learn a little bit about the area before deciding whether it is right for your family.

Family Friendly Destinations

In a city with as tourist oriented as the city of Miami, you can be sure that there is no shortage of attractions that are perfect for the every age. One local favorite amongst tourists of all ages is Parrot Jungle Island located just off the MacArthur Causeway, with its world famous Parrot Bowl of unusual birds from all over the world. Another very unusual family destination is the Coral Castle with its astounding 1100 tons of hand carved coral that give visitors of all ages an idea of the artistic talent that has resided in Miami over the years. For a great interactive introduction to the history of this part of Florida, consider visiting the Vizcaya estate with its turn of the century estate.

Year Round Miami Activities

Like most of Florida, Miami can get overrun with tourists during the peak season. Thankfully, Miami makes for a great family destination at almost any time of the year. Even if you are visiting during the summer months, it is still worth having a few rainy day activities scheduled because of the famous afternoon thunderstorms Florida is well known for.

One perennial family favorite is Miami’s Seaquarium. The Seaquarium consists of over 30 acres of indoor and outdoor aquatic exhibits displaying examples of almost every type of local marine life. Other great locales to visit during rainy weather include the Miami Children’s Museum and the very interactive Miami Museum of Science.

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categories: Miami real estate, Miami luxury real estate, historical properties

Miami luxury real estate

Condo Home owners in Miami

Miami ocean front property is some of the most valuable in the nation. The market remains competitive even as home sales and values decline nationwide. Buyers are still attracted to the Miami region and the Miami lifestyle even in a struggling economy. For those seeking property, condominium living provides an perfect combination of value, convenience and security not always afforded to those buying other types of housing. Condos, based on price per square foot and location are generally more affordable than houses.

The relatively affordable cost of a condo is an attractive feature to home buyers in the Miami real estate market. Those located beachfront are particularly advantageous in terms of value and security. Beachfront houses can be prohibitively pricey for the typical buyer.

Condos built on the beach enable a greater number of properties in a designated space by towering above the landscape, offering spectacular views of the city and water. The number of condos on the market as opposed to single-family separate homes ensures that prices will be more reasonable and competitive.

When living in a condo, landscape and building upkeep are the responsibility of a property management company. There is more often than not a home owners association that assesses monthly or annual fees for building and common area maintenance.

As Miami is an area prone to intense tropical storms and hurricane winds, building maintenance can be a substantial expense. While most condos are built to withstand the most violent conditions Florida’s climate has to offer, the peace of mind in knowing that should storm associated repairs be necessary , the property management company will handle those repairs and associated costs. Additionally, any garden areas around the condo would be kept by the association’s contracted landscaping crew. Residents of a condo are able to enjoy the beauty of the garden areas without dealing with the yard work.

Condo living is an ideal complement to the energy and excitement of the traditional Miami life style. Being able to live beachfront in a secured building enables the resident to come and go for nightlife, dinners out and entertainment without concerns about the security of their residence. Many purchase condos in Miami as a retreat or vacation home knowing that their property is safe in their absence. Adding to the allure of safety is the unavoidable beauty of Miami’s landscape. Beachfront condos afford views to their residences that are not available in single-family homes at the same price point.

Miami’s real estate market is affected by the national market, but to a slighter extent than other areas missing such destination appeal . Condos are still being built in the Miami area, which provides a reasonable pricing strategy for the companies involved. House hunters can profit from the ongoing construction in terms of value, while owning a property that will always have value as an investment, despite the ebbs and flows of the housing marketplace. Beachfront space is not limitless, and the ability to build up rather than out has produced magnificent condo buildings with units that boast impeccable amenities and views.

Florida Equities L.L.C. supports all of its brokers by developing strong relationships with Florida’s largest and most prestigious developers and builders. This gives you an inside edge toward owning a beautiful, opulent new home in this beach paradise. This article powered by SEO 2.0 Services

categories: Miami condominiums,Miami luxury real estate,Condo living in Miami,Waterfront condos,Miami Beach front

Miami luxury real estate

Winter in Miami

While the rest of the country battles the cold, winter is the start of Miami’s great weather. On the southern tip of Florida, the city of Miami rests on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. The close proximity to the ocean and the low latitude gives this city its tropical climate. From December to January, the average daily high temperature is in the mid-seventies, and these are the coldest months of the year. The rainy season ends in November, and Florida’s dry season begins.

Miami is a vibrant city with strong Latin influences. The city is very metropolitan while still retaining a relaxed, fun-loving attitude. The Miami area has a long history. First the area was a Native American settlement, then the Spanish brought in some missions. In the late’00s to today, Miami has been experiencing huge growth, partially because it is known as as a winter destination. While the thriving economy supports a large, year-round population, winter is still the season when everything comes to life. There is always somewhere to go and something to do. The Latin influence can especially be felt in the dining and dancing–Miami has fantastic restaurants and clubs.

The winter weather in Miami is so agreeable that there are few days that cannot be spent at the beach. Miami has several long, sandy beaches ideal for sunbathing, beach-combing, and water sports. There are plenty of places to snorkel and scuba dive, and even in winter the water is a tolerable seventy degrees. The most famous of Miami’s beaches is South Beach. This somewhat risqu beach is lined with a funky Art Deco district. If you are looking for a quieter beach, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is nice and has a lighthouse.

Miami is adjacent to two National Parks, the Biscayne and the Everglades. The Biscayne National Park is mainly a marine park with beautiful coral reefs. The Everglades are famous for their wildlife, like alligators and fabulous birds. Nature-lovers will appreciate the many trails and viewpoints. Year round there is something to see at these National Parks. Winter is also a time of harvest, with many of the famous Florida citrus fruits being harvested from December through March. Many homes in Florida have fruit trees in the yard. Farm stands are open year round with fresh, local fruits and vegetables.

Several excellent golf courses are in and around Miami, and the PGA has regular competitions here. There are several huge shopping malls, and a few outdoor shopping areas like the Lincoln Road street mall in Miami Beach. Imagine shopping for Christmas presents in their great shops, and then having lunch on the patio of a delicious Cuban restaurant. All of this while wearing shorts. It is no wonder, Miami is one of the most popular retirement areas in the country.

Miami is a delightful city with ideal winter weather. It is a great place to have a home-many come for winter vacation and never leave. If you are looking for a combination of sunshine and fun things to do, Miami is the place to choose.

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