RESOURCES
Preparing Your Home For A Sale
Preparing your home for sale is crucial to make a positive impression on potential buyers. Obviously, you want to get top dollar as well. Here's a checklist to guide you:
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Curb Appeal:
Trim bushes and trees.
Plant flowers for a welcoming touch.
Ensure a well-maintained lawn.
Exterior Maintenance:
Power wash the exterior.
Touch up paint where needed.
Clean and repair gutters.
Home Repairs:
Fix any leaky faucets or pipes.
Repair any holes or cracks in walls.
Ensure doors and windows open and close smoothly.
Declutter:
Remove personal items for a neutral look.
Organize closets and storage spaces.
Deep Clean:
Clean carpets and polish floors.
Scrub bathrooms and kitchens thoroughly.
Clean windows inside and out.
Staging:
Arrange furniture for a spacious feel.
Add tasteful decor to enhance appeal.
Consider professional staging if necessary.
Lighting:
Ensure all lights are working.
Use bright, neutral lighting to create an inviting atmosphere.
Odor Control:
Address any unpleasant smells.
Consider subtle air fresheners or scented candles.
Maintenance Records:
Compile records of recent repairs and maintenance.
Highlight any upgrades or improvements.
Energy Efficiency:
Replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient ones.
Consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances.
Documentation:
Gather important documents like property surveys and warranties.
Prepare a list of items that may be included in the sale.
Pricing Strategy:
Research comparable home prices in the area.
Consult with me, your real estate agent on a competitive pricing strategy. We will also work out a selling strategy to sell your home quickly with maximum returns.
Marketing Materials: This is where I really get to work for you
High-quality photos for online listings.
Professional video tour of the home for Social Media Promotion
Create a brochure highlighting key features.
I like to do hyper local marketing mailers and over the top Open Houses
Accessibility:
Ensure easy access to all rooms.
Fix any squeaky doors or stairs.
Security:
Consider a professional home inspection. That way we already know of any issues that may arise during the sale and we can deal with them ahead of time.
Secure valuables during showings.
First impressions matter, so investing time and effort into these preparations can significantly impact the sale of your home. Consulting with a real estate professional, such as myself, can provide additional insights tailored to your specific situation.
Checklist for First-time Home Buyers
Here's an easy-to-understand checklist for first-time home buyers:
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Assess Your Finances: Pre-game Planning
Check your credit score.
Determine your budget, considering down payment, monthly mortgage payments, and closing costs.
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: Week 1
Contact lenders to get pre-approved for a mortgage.
Understand the terms and conditions of the loan.
I prefer Jake LaBelle with Embrace Home Loans (802)-353-4724
Find a Real Estate Agent (You’re in luck because I’m your Man) Week 1
Look at Google Reviews.
Watch my Lifestyle Video
Start House Hunting: Week 1
Define your priorities (location, size, amenities).
View properties with your agent.
Make an Offer: Week 1-2
Work with your agent to make a competitive offer.
Be prepared for negotiations with the seller.
Make an “Ernest Money Deposit” into an escrow account, usually 1% of purchase price.
Home Inspection: This happens 3-7 days after the offer is accepted. During this period you can back out of the contract with no repercussions. Once the inspection period ends you are at risk of loosing your deposit if you back out.
Hire a professional inspector to examine the property.
Review the inspection report and address any concerns.
Secure Financing:
Finalize your mortgage application.
Coordinate with your lender and provide necessary documentation.
Lender will order an appraisal of the home to verify it’s value
Closing Process:
Now we just wait on paperwork to process, this is a great time to schedule utilities being transferred into your name.
Review and sign all necessary documents.
Final Walkthrough:
Inspect the property one last time before closing.
Ensure that any agreed-upon repairs have been completed.
Closing Day:
Attend the closing meeting with your agent.
Sign all final paperwork and receive the keys.
Post-Move Tasks:
Finish setting up any final utilities and change your address.
Set a reminder to register for Homestead Tax Exemption
Celebrate and enjoy your new home!
This checklist provides a general overview, and the process may vary based on location and individual circumstances. It's crucial to work closely with your real estate agent and other professionals throughout the home-buying journey.
Exploring the Wonders of the Space Coast: A Guide to Adventure and Beyond
Welcome to the Space Coast, where every corner holds the promise of excitement and discovery. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, there's always something happening on Florida's east coast. Let's dive into the myriad of activities and attractions that make the Space Coast truly out of this world.
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1. Brevard County Zoo: A Wild Experience
Start your journey with a wild adventure at the Brevard County Zoo. With habitats designed to mimic natural environments, this zoo offers an immersive experience for animal lovers of all ages. Encounter exotic wildlife and engage in educational programs that make every visit memorable.
2. Bioluminescent Marvel: A Summer Spectacle
Have you ever witnessed the mesmerizing bioluminescence that graces the Space Coast waters during the summer? Join nightly tours to witness this natural phenomenon where the waters light up, creating a magical display of nature's brilliance. It's an experience that's not just seen but felt.
3. Aquarium Wonderland on Mosquito Lagoon
Prepare for an aquatic wonderland as Merritt Island gears up to host one of the world's largest aquariums on Mosquito Lagoon. Dive deep into marine life and explore the mysteries of the ocean in this upcoming attraction that promises to be a mesmerizing addition to the Space Coast.
4. Rocket Launches: Front-Row Seats from Your Yard
Living on the Space Coast comes with a unique perk – front-row seats to weekly rocket launches. Marvel at the spectacle as spacecraft soar into the sky, leaving trails of wonder behind. It's a breathtaking reminder of the region's deep connection to space exploration.
5. Sun, Sand, and Serenity: The Beach Lifestyle
Embrace the coastal charm with the Space Coast's stunning beaches. From Cocoa Beach to Playalinda, each stretch of sand invites you to bask in the sun, ride the waves, or simply unwind by the shore. The Space Coast offers a beach experience like no other.
6. World-Class Fishing and Boating Adventures
For fishing enthusiasts and boating aficionados, the Space Coast is a paradise. Cast your line into the rich waters or set sail for a nautical journey along the Indian River. The diverse marine life and pristine waterways make every expedition an unforgettable adventure.
7. Dynamic Yoga Studio
Equilibrium Movement was born out of a deep passion for holistic health and a desire to create a space where individuals could find balance, strength, and connection. With over a decade of experience teaching classes and over 15 years in the world of massage therapy, our founder envisioned a studio that would go beyond traditional fitness centers. Thus, Equilibrium Movement came to life as a natural progression, a place where the mind, body, and soul could harmoniously coexist.
Living on the Space Coast is more than a location; it's an invitation to explore the wonders of nature, science, and recreation. So, whether you're stargazing at a rocket launch, embarking on a bioluminescent night tour, or simply enjoying the coastal lifestyle, the Space Coast has something extraordinary in store for everyone.
Vendor Reccomendations
Mortgage Lender
Jake LaBelle at Embrace Home Loans 802-353-4724 jlabelle@embracehomeloans.com
Homeowners Insurance
Katherine Flakes 904-507-6140 Katherine.flakes@alliance.com
Home Inspection
Double Scope Home Inspections 321-250-5344
Exterior Cleaner
Neptune Exterior Cleaning 321-209-5088 neptuneexteriorcleaning.com
House Cleaning
321-549-1821
Plumber
Ian Hanbury 321-298-7716