Be Cautious When Hiring a Locksmith

March 9th, 2010 Categories: Community News

If you’re a Florida homeowner in need of a locksmith, here’s something to consider: in the State of Florida, locksmiths don’t need to be licensed.  Not yet anyway.

Because of this, it is very easy for someone who has no intentions of being a bonafide locksmith, set up shop as a locksmith and scam people.  For as little as $15, the person can purchase “bogus” business cards and make people think he is in it for real.

People in need of a locksmith may call these con-men with a legitimate request to change locks or set up a safe in a business or home.  The “locksmith” can keep the combination or copies of keys and later rob them without much effort.
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Family Heads Back to South Florida

February 16th, 2010 Categories: About, Random Thoughts, South Florida Living, The Redland

In the past few years there’s been so much talk of people leaving south Florida and heading north.  It seemed that was all I heard a few years back.  But homes have become affordable once again in Miami and surrounding areas.

I read an interesting story of a family who headed to North Dakota lured by the promise of small town life, sweetened by the offer of free land and money to get their home purchase on its way.

It’s been four years since the Tristanis moved and they’re apparently trying to come back to south Florida.  The beautiful weather here is just one of the many reasons.

You can read their story here.  It’s a shame that the efforts of the development committee were not taken to heart by the surrounding community.  Clearly, for things like this to work, everyone must be on board.

The Redland, just southwest of Miami, is a lovely place to call home. I love the fact that things are quiet here.  And I’m never more than 10 minutes away from most things I need.  It’s really the best of both worlds for me.  I haven’t cleaned snow since 2001 when I left New York.  I can’t say that the snow’s been missed. =)

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Mr. Homebuyer, Here’s Why I Didn’t Send That One

January 26th, 2010 Categories: For Buyers

Like most agents in the Miami real estate market, I have quite a number of buyers I am working with.  Several months ago I started making sure that I always meet with each one before we start working together to make sure they understand the process.  We also make sure they’re qualified and that we’re a good “fit” for one another.  

Even so, I occasionally end up with the very eager buyer who thinks he can help me out by riding around his preferred neighborhoods and call me with addresses to look up for him.  

Inevitably, there is always a reason why I haven’t sent him this particular home to review online.  It’s not because I missed it.  I want to sell him a house as much as he wants to buy one.  Really!  

If you are working with a real estate agent who is looking for homes for you, here is a list of possible reasons a home may not be suitable for you and won’t make it to the emails we send you:   Read the rest of this entry »

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Palmetto Bay Mayor Accused of Improper Use of Seal

January 20th, 2010 Categories: Palmetto Bay

As a REALTOR who sells homes in Palmetto Bay, I like to keep abreast of what goes on in the area.  I came across this and found it interesting enough to comment on.

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Five Ways to Create Curb Appeal

January 11th, 2010 Categories: For Sellers

 A sale can be made or lost as a direct result of your home’s curb appeal. When it comes to selling your home, the first impression is probably the most important impression. If the outside of the property doesn’t create interest or appear well-maintained, a buyer may choose to not even come inside the home. Here are five ways to create curb appeal.

Paint and polish. A fresh coat of paint breathes new life into a tired-looking home. If your home looks dull or suffers from peeling, cracked or chipped surfaces, a paint job is a great investment. Polish the doorknocker and mail slot on the front door, as well as any light fixtures by the entry. Re-condition your deck. Consider renting a power washer to clean dirt and mildew from the wood, and then apply an all-weather sealer or stain.

Manicure the grounds. Mow and edge the grass, and trim the trees and bushes. Also, clear away dead leaves and flowers, and mulch and weed the beds. Check to see that tree branches are not touching the home’s roof or outer walls. Add some color to your landscape by planting annuals and placing planters of flowers in strategic spots. You can even spruce up the property by hanging flowering baskets. Add flowering plants in the back yard, too. 

Make needed repairs. See if anything is unhinged, loose or just an eyesore. Fix everything including broken fencing, windows and screens. Replace any missing shingles from the roof. Try the doorbell. Check stairs and railings. Test doors for squeaks and rusted hinges. Don’t forget to take a critical look at the property at night. Make sure the lights work, and replace dim and burned-out bulbs.

Unclutter. Tidy up the deck, patio and back yard. Rearrange the outdoor furniture to look inviting.  Put away gardening tools and toys. Clean up the barbecue area. Eliminate any “evidence” of pets, and restrict them to the back yard when showing the home. Move extra vehicles from the view of passersby.

Clean. Clean the windows, inside and out, wash down the walks and driveway, and hose down the siding. Clean outdoor furniture and cushions. Check for oil spots on cement surfaces, especially the garage floor.        

The old saying about making a good first impression couldn’t be truer than when you are selling your home. Even the smallest enhancements can make a big difference in creating love at first sight for buyers.

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Packing Tips to Get You Moving

January 7th, 2010 Categories: For Buyers, For Sellers

Packing Tips to Get You Moving

Packing is one of those dreaded but necessary chores of moving. Not only is it time consuming, but it sheds light on how much we really have accumulated since the last move. But it can be a manageable task by starting early and having a plan.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Read the rest of this entry »

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