Blog

Quick Property Search

How Do Climate Risks Affect Your Next Home? When you’re conf…

How Do Climate Risks Affect Your Next Home? When you’re confident the home you’re looking at is well developed, the next action is finding out what it’s going to require to insure it. In areas where environment risks are having a bigger impact, the ideal home insurance coverage can make a substantial distinction. When thinking…

Read More...

Patty, Hollywood, FL Scott and his group at the listing grou…

Patty, Hollywood, FL Scott and his group at the listing group were extraordinary. The individual attention that I got i might not have asked for any longer.

Read More...

Builders Are Building Smaller Homes [INFOGRAPHIC], if you d.

Contractors Are Building Smaller Homes [INFOGRAPHIC] Let’s link and explore your options together if you choose to see what’s offered in your area and in other areas nearby.

Read More...

The Perks of Downsizing When You Retire [INFOGRAPHIC]

If you’re about to retire, or just did, downsizing can be a good way to try
to cut down on some of your expenses.

* Smaller homes typically have lower energy and maintenance costs.
Plus, you may have enough equity built up to fuel your move.

* If you’re thinking about moving to a smaller home, let’s go over your
goals and look at your options in our local market.

Read More...

When You Retire [the Perks of Downsizing INFOGRAPHIC]

When You Retire [the Perks of Downsizing INFOGRAPHIC] Some Highlights If you’re about to retire, or just did, scaling down can be an outstanding way to try to reduce some of your expenses. Smaller sized homes generally have lower energy and upkeep costs. Plus, you might have sufficient equity developed to sustain your relocation. If…

Read More...

What Mortgage Rate Are You Waiting For?

What Mortgage Rate Are You Waiting For?

You won’t find anyone who’s going to argue that mortgage rates have had a
big impact on housing affordability over the past couple of years. But
there is hope on the horizon. Rates have actually started to come down.
And, recently they hit the lowest point we’ve seen in 2024, according to
Freddie Mac (see graph below):

And if you’re thinking about buying a home, that may leave you wondering:
how much lower are they going to go? Here’s some information that can help
you know what to expect.

Expert Projections for Mortgage Rates

Experts say the overall downward trend should continue as long as inflation
and the economy keeps cooling. But as new reports come out on those key
indicators, there’s going to be some volatility here and there.

What you need to remember is it’s not wise to let those blips distract you
from the larger trend. Rates are still down roughly a full percentage point
from the recent peak compared to May.

And the general consensus is that rates in the low 6s are possible in the
months ahead, it just depends on what happens with the economy and what the
Federal Reserve decides to do moving forward.

Most experts are already starting to revise their 2024 mortgage rate
forecasts to be more optimistic that lower rates are ahead. For example,
Realtor.com says:

“Mortgage rates have been revised slightly lower as signals from the
economy suggest that it will be appropriate for the Fed to begin to cut
its Federal Funds rate in 2024. Our yearly mortgage rate average
forecast is down to 6.7%, and we revised our year-end forecast to 6.3%
from 6.5%.”

Know Your Number for Mortgage Rates

So, what does this mean for you and your plans to move? If you’ve been
holding out and waiting for rates to come down, know that it’s already
happening. You just have to decide, based on the expert projections and
your own budget, when you’ll be willing to jump back in. As Sam Khater,
Chief Economist at Freddie Mac, says:

“The decline in mortgage rates does increase prospective homebuyers’
purchasing power and should begin to pique their interest in making a
move.”

As a next step, ask yourself this: what number do I want to see rates hit
before I’m ready to move?

Maybe it’s 6.25%. Maybe it’s 6.0%. Or maybe it’s once they hit 5.99%. The
exact percentage where you feel comfortable kicking off your search again
is personal. Once you have that number in mind, you don’t need to follow
rates yourself and wait for it to become a reality.

Instead, connect with a local real estate professional. They’ll help you
stay up to date on what’s happening and have a conversation about when to
make your move. And once rates hit your target, they’ll be the first to let
you know.

Bottom Line

If you’ve put your moving plans on hold because of higher mortgage rates,
think about the number you want to see rates hit that would make you
re-enter the market.

Once you have that number in mind, let’s connect so you have someone on
your side to let you know when we get there.

Read More...

Hoarding and Its Health Effects: What Happens to People and …

Hoarding is more than just a clutter problem; it is a major mental condition that can have profound impacts on a person’s health and living conditions. When hoarding spirals out of control, it not only impacts the specific however likewise triggers damage to communities and homes. In this article, we’ll explore how hoarding affects health,…

Read More...

RESF Nation|November 2023 In The Know

Read More...

Cost Savings Strategies Every First-Time Homebuyer Needs To …

Cost Savings Strategies Every First-Time Homebuyer Needs To Know If you have to move cash by hand, you may forget to do it. Ask your company if you can have your income deposited into numerous accounts– if so, advise it to send out a certain portion of your income directly into your cost savings account….

Read More...

Why a Condo May Be a Great Option for Your First Home

Having a hard time finding a first home that’s right for you and your
wallet? Well, here’s a tip – think about condominiums, or condos for short.

Read More...

Quick Property Search

Buyers, Here’s Your Guide to Make Your Homeownership Dream Alive in 2025 [PART 1]

By | December 20, 2024 | 0 Comments

Planning to buy a home in 2025? With only a few days left ‘til the new
year, it may seem like an extremely distant and daunting goal. But the good
news is that you still have the whole year ahead of you, which means you
can take it step by step. Getting started today is already a huge feat, so
here’s a comprehensive guide that you can use to navigate through this
journey toward your homeownership dreams.

The Truth About Down Payments

By | December 20, 2024 | 0 Comments

There’s a misconception going around that you have to put 20% of the
purchase price down when you buy a home. But the truth is, many people
don’t put down that much unless they’re trying to make their offer more
competitive. And if you want to give your savings a boost, look into down
payment assistance. There are thousands of programs that offer an average
benefit of nearly $17,000. To learn more about loan options or down payment
assistance programs, connect with a trusted lender and check out
downpaymentresource.com.

Why You Can’t Afford To Ignore Housing Market Research

By | December 20, 2024 | 0 Comments

Ignoring housing market research could lead your investment strategy down
the drain. Learn about why you simply cannot ignore housing market
research.

Why You Shouldn’t Waive a Home Inspection

By | December 20, 2024 | 0 Comments

In a competitive market, many buyers are tempted to skip an inspection.
Here’s why you shouldn’t waive a home inspection during the buying process.

Upgrades To Make Your Pool Area Feel More Luxurious

By | December 20, 2024 | 0 Comments

Explore upgrades like pool lighting, water features, and wooden diving
boards to create a luxury pool area for relaxation and increased property
value.

Buyer Beware: Things To Watch Out for During Showings

By | December 20, 2024 | 0 Comments

Your next home showing could be the purchase of your dreams, but are you
equipped with the best buyer’s beware tips and tricks? Learn a few things
here.

What to Look for in a Property Sale Agent

By | December 18, 2024 | 0 Comments

Discover what to look for in a property sale agent to ensure a smooth home
selling process. Learn key qualities, experience, and strategies that a
skilled agent should bring to the table. Expert advice from Scott Lehr PA,
at RESF and The Listing Team.

How to Choose the Right Property Listing Site for Your Home

By | December 18, 2024 | 0 Comments

Learn how to choose the right property listing site for selling your home.
Understand the factors that impact visibility, pricing, and buyer reach to
ensure a successful sale. Get expert insights from Scott Lehr PA, at RESF
and The Listing Team.

Understanding Property Listings in South Florida

By | December 18, 2024 | 0 Comments

Learn how to navigate property listings in South Florida. Understand key
features, pricing strategies, and market trends to make informed decisions
when buying or selling a home in the area. Get expert insights from Scott
Lehr PA, at RESF and The Listing Team.

What to Look for in a Property Sale Agent

By | December 18, 2024 | 0 Comments

What to Look for in a Property Sale Agent | The Listing Team

What to Look for in a Property Sale Agent

Choosing the right property sale agent can make a significant difference in your selling experience. A skilled agent brings knowledge, resources, and negotiation skills that help you achieve the best possible outcome. Here’s a guide on what to look for in a property sale agent when listing your home in South Florida.1. In-Depth Local Market KnowledgeYour agent should have extensive knowledge of the South Florida market, an understanding of the factors that influence property values in different neighborhoods. This expertise helps set the right price and attract serious buyers.2. Proven Track RecordExperience matters in real estate. Look for an agent with a proven track record of successful sales in your area. Positive testimonials and reviews from past clients can provide insight into their performance and reliability.3. Strong Marketing StrategiesAn effective agent will have a comprehensive marketing plan to showcase your property. From professional photos to virtual tours and social media promotion, a strong marketing strategy ensures your listing gains maximum exposure.4. Excellent Communication SkillsClear, consistent communication is essential in a property sale agent. They should keep you informed at every step, providing updates and responding to questions promptly. This open communication will make you feel confident and informed throughout the process.5. Effective Negotiation SkillsAn agent’s negotiation skills are critical to achieving the best sale price. Look for someone who can effectively represent your interests, handling offers and counteroffers with professionalism and skill.6. Integrity and TransparencyHonesty and integrity should be non-negotiable. A good agent will provide realistic expectations, disclose any potential challenges, and always act in your best interest. Working with a transparent agent helps build trust and ensures a smooth process.7. Strong Professional NetworkAn experienced agent typically has a network of industry contacts, from inspectors and contractors to staging companies. Their connections can be invaluable when preparing your home for sale or addressing any issues that arise.ConclusionChoosing the right property sale agent requires evaluating their market knowledge, track record, communication skills, and integrity. By finding an agent with these qualities, you’ll be well-positioned for a smooth, successful sale in the South Florida market.