Treasure Coast Real Estate Blog

Your local news and information source for homes and investment real estate along South Florida's Treasure Coast

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Frequently Asked Questions in Real Estate

Real Estate FAQ: What Are Some Negotiating Tips?


A: Know the seller's motivation to sell. This will enhance your negotiating position. Sellers who must move quickly due to a job transfer, divorce, or contract on another home, are more inclined to accept a lower price to speed the process along. Remember, too, that the listing, or asking, price is what the seller would like to receive for the home. It is not necessarily what the seller will settle for. So know value. Before you make an offer, check recent sales and listing prices of comparable neighborhood homes and compare them to the seller's asking price. Other tips:

 

  • Be flexible. Never say, “take it or leave it.” That can sour negotiations and ruin the deal.
  • Never show your hand or reveal your next step. 
  • Each time you increase your offering price ask for something in return, such as repairs, appliances, even lawn furniture.
  • If you plan to pay cash or have a tentative commitment for a loan, use your strong financial position as a negotiating tool.
  • Don’t let emotions such as pride, fear, love, and anger get in the way of negotiating the best deal. Leave irrational feelings at home. 


This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.


Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

Saturday, December 5, 2015

How Schools Impact Home Values

What to Look for When Evaluating School Districts



Given the way most communities work, the location of a home dictates the local school district. The quality of the school district can have a direct impact on the value of your home.

Even if you don’t have kids or don’t have to plan kids, the quality of the local schools can positively or negatively effect your home’s value. Buyers tend to prefer homes in good school districts, either because they have school-aged children, or they are thinking of resale value down the line.

So how do you know if your local schools make the grade? What signs point towards an improving or declining school district? Here are a five things you’ll want to consider:

1. Test scores. It’s a basic measurement of student performance and educator effectiveness. Look at the performance historically for an idea of which direction things have been heading.

2. Graduation rates. High graduation rates mean a large percentage of students complete a particular school’s program, and generally reflects well on the district.

3. Student-to-teacher ratios. A low student-to-teacher ratio is generally positive, as it indicates a higher percentage chance of students receiving individualized attention. It also suggests that teachers at the school will be more attentive to the quality of the education as they are not overwhelmed by their student load. (If you already have a relatively high student-to-teacher ratio in a community that’s growing fast, beware.)

4. School amenities. No, we’re not talking about hot tubs! But we are talking about athletic programs, music programs, and special education programs. If a district is impoverished and has cut all but the essentials from a public education, you may want to hold off.

5. Local parental opinion. Ask parents what they think of the schools. How well does the staff communicate? Do the teachers seem engaged? How are the libraries? Are parents engaged, or is there little sense of community?

Though school districts are but one factor in the myriad of environmental and neighborhood conditions influencing home value, they remain an important one. Do your homework!

Curious about the local schools? I am happy to help you understand the local school district and homes near great schools.

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Friday, November 6, 2015

Selling and Buying a Home: Behind a Smooth Transition

Behind a Smooth Transition | Realtor Magazine


Helping Clients Juggle Selling and Buying a Home


Read: Behind a Smooth Transition | Realtor Magazine

Do you need to sell and buy a home at once? Contact me and I can help answer your questions about how we manage simultaneous with a minimum of stress and more!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Sunday, November 1, 2015

Understanding Multiple Offer Situations

When inventory is tight and a market heats up, sellers often dream of finding themselves in a multiple offer situation. In a multiple offer situation, more than one potential buyer submits a written offer on the home. With multiple offers on a property, the listing agent can then try and “shop the top offer” in order to try and get the best deal possible for their client.

If you live in a hot market, how do you structure your listing in such a way that you get the best possible offers in a multiple offer situation?

One strategy for cultivating multiple offers is letting buyers know that the seller will only entertain offers on a certain date. Rather than deal with offers dribbling in one at a time, there’s a deadline for offers. When this happens, buyers know they have to have a truly exceptional offer on the table if they hope to be in the running for the property.

With a deadline on offers, buyers will look at ways to gain an advantage over other offers. This often extends beyond pricing, though pricing is a part of the picture. “Escalation clauses” are frequently built in should a buyer’s offer find stiff competition from another buyer. The clause ups the amount the buyer is willing to pay in the face of a legitimate competing offer.

In addition to escalation clauses, buyers may also waive other terms and contingencies relating to inspections, title, or financing. In some multiple offer situations, an all-cash buyer will have a considerable advantage over those who must still navigate the additional complications of their financing.

Be aware that in a multiple offer situation your agent may not be eager to try and instigate the next level: An all out bidding war. While the agent has an obligation to secure the best possible offer for your listing, bidding wars can generate a lot of bad blood between agents who have worked together the past (and hope to work together in the future). Some sellers will push an agent the direction of a bidding war, but those who do must realize there’s an inherent risk in making an enemy out of buyers and buyers’ agents. (Everyone has their limits!)

Do you live in a market that’s hot? How in demand would your home be if it happened to be on the market right now? Have you talked to an agent about the prospect of generating multiple offers on your property?

Contact me and I can help answer all of these questions and more!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Saturday, October 10, 2015

Renovations Which Help Sell Your Home

If you treat your home like an investment, you’ll want to make improvements which will pay off when the time comes to list and sell your home. Not every renovation project has to be a major undertaking. In fact, these smaller projects are some of the best you can choose.

Not all renovations are created equal. If you’re adding a luxurious new bathroom or a “man cave” for your own purposes, you’re probably not too concerned about your return when the house goes on the market. You’re spending the money for your pleasure and quality of life, not the return.

But many homeowners see their home as a financial investment vehicle and understand that it’s quite likely the day will come in 5 to 7 years when they are ready to trade up or move to a new market. With this eye, every renovation is a calculated decision. In this situation, you want to select projects which are likely to provide a good return.

Any renovation which improves the value of your home in the eyes of buyers without breaking your renovation budget is an excellent choice. So how do you know which ones buyers want to see?

According to a National Association of Home Builder's 2013 report of 4,000 prospective buyers, the following seven features were on buyers' most wanted list:

1. Separate laundry room (93% preference)

2. Exterior lighting (90% preference)

3. Energy Star-qualified windows (89% preference)

4. Garage storage space (86% preference)

5. Eat-in kitchen (85% preference)

6. Walk-in kitchen pantry (85% preference)

7. Wireless home security system (50% preference)

You can read the estimated costs and reasoning behind these features in the original Kiplinger article here:

http://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/real-estate/T010-S001-7-features-home-buyers-want-most/index.html

(Keep in mind that the costs may have risen, as the original article ran in 2014.)

Are you planning to sell your home after a renovation? I’d be happy to help you. Let’s talk!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.


Thursday, September 24, 2015

Commonly Overlooked Home Inspection Details

Buyer Beware: Don’t Neglect to Inspect a Home Yourself


Home inspectors are professionals trained to spot problems and evaluate properties, but this doesn’t mean you should neglect to evaluate a home thoroughly before you buy. Here are some commonly overlooked areas you can check for yourself.

Home inspection professionals are trained to spot problems and evaluate a home’s overall condition. While they have a reputation for being ethical and thorough, they are also still human. Sometimes details escape their attention.

If you’re making a major investment in a home, there’s no reason you have to leave 100% of the inspection up to someone else. There are definitely areas you can review for yourself (or hire an outside party to review).

Before you sign off on a house, don’t neglect to review these commonly overlooked areas:

1. Roof: Yes, inspectors will consider the roof condition, but they probably won’t be on top of the roof when they do it. This is one area where hiring a roofing contractor to take a look can be a major benefit during negotiations.

2. Fences: You might not think there’s much to inspect here, but replacing a fence is expensive. What looks sturdy on a sunny day can turn into a giant repair after the first storm of the season. This is especially true of wooden fences.

3. Drains: Fill up tubs and sinks and see how long it takes them to drain. If they’re slow, you’ll want to know why. It could be something as simple as a clog, but what if it’s more?

4. Fireplaces: Home inspectors will often give these the once-over, but they sure aren’t going to light a fire. If you can, make sure these operate as expected. It’s also a good idea to find out when the chimney was last cleaned and who the owner uses to maintain it.

5. Heating/Cooling: The time of year might impact how thorough an inspector is with the heating and cooling system. After all, who’s likely to really run the A/C in the winter or the heat in the summer? With such a big ticket item, you want to be certain it performs as expected.

Pricing is directly tied to a home’s condition, so don’t overlook the opportunity to protect yourself from repair bills. Problems present you with leverage in negotiations.

Ready to hunt for a home in great shape? Let me help you with your search. There are all kinds of properties available right now!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details. 

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Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Don’t Fear a Hot Homebuyer’s Market

You Can Still Find a Home at a Fair Price


A recent survey of would-be home buyers revealed fears that the market is too hot, driving many people to sit on the sidelines. Don’t let “macro fears” drive your decision-making process. There’s still plenty of opportunity to find the right home at the right price.

If you’ve found yourself paralyzed by this active market, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey of 3,500 buyers, a whopping 58% of potential homebuyers are sitting on the sidelines because they’re afraid the market is too hot. Here’s a breakdown of their top concerns:

1. Affordability: Prices are rising or too high (27%)
2. There's too much competition from other buyers (17%)
3. There aren't enough homes to choose from (14%)

While it’s true we’ve seen a dramatic increase in market activity over the past few years, it’s important to remember that what you want isn’t necessarily what everyone else wants. Where you want to live and the type of home you want to live in isn’t necessarily subject to the “macro trends” in any given market situation.

Your dream home is as unique as you are, and the only way to understand what’s out there is to take the time to share the details of what you’re looking for with a professional who is tuned into the market. What’s more, an agent can help debunk market myths and keep an eye out for properties which fit your specific criteria.

Now is a good time to make a list of criteria for your next home. Begin with your “must haves” and move on to your “nice to haves.” Consider square footage, neighborhood, amenities, and your budget as you put together this list. Reflecting on this information will help you have a productive discussion with a buyer’s agent and also contribute to your understanding of “what’s out there” in your immediate market.

Often our fears turn out to be unfounded. If you’ve been letting your perception of the market stymie you from pursuing your dream, now is a good time to start a discussion with someone who can help you see the whole picture.

Questions? I’m happy to help you answer them! Get in touch today!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details. 

Saturday, September 5, 2015

The Keys to Killer Curb Appeal

Thinking of selling your Treasure Coasthome?  As you probably know, curb appeal is an essential component of preparing a home for sale.

Our free eBook "The Keys to Killer Curb Appeal" is a helpful checklist and guide to making your home as appealing as possible to prospective buyers.

Download the Keys to Killer Curb Appeal or read my SlideShare presentation below. If you have questions about this guide, or would like to chat a little more about the home selling process, please call me at 888-288-1765,  I’d love to learn more about your goals regarding the sale of your home and your timeline for moving.






This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Friday, September 4, 2015

OPEN HOUSE Sunday 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM at The Pines, Jensen Beach, FL

OPEN HOUSE, September 06, Sunday 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
2431 Northwest Windemere Drive, Jensen Beach, FL
Get Directions Click Here
Description Photos Maps & Local Schools Walk Score
$ Click for current price
3 BEDROOMS
2 BATHROOMS (2 full)
2375 Square Feet
Discover Jensen Beach living in this beautiful three bedroom, two bath pool home in The Pines. Features include tile floors in living areas, crown molding, stainless steel appliances and more. Recently painted inside and out. Minutes to shopping, dining, beaches and ''A'' rated Martin County schools. Low HOA. Move in ready. A must see!
Jensen Beach, FL Homes for Sale

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Eric Slifkin

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Sunday, August 30, 2015

Survival Tips for the Sandwich Generation

It seems like many clients, colleagues, or acquaintances I encounter have become or are becoming caregivers in some capacity. While most anyone may find themselves caring for a loved one, caregiving offers a host of challenges unique to those of us nearing retirement.

Many people looking toward retirement become members of ‘the sandwich generation’ – working adults still caring for kids or college students who must also become caregivers for aging parents. “It’s a stage of life that is hard on finances and can drain you emotionally as well,” notes Lauren Hill, co-author of Liftcaregiving.com, which offers tips for caregivers. Hill offers a few suggestions for adults who find themselves in this group:

Make time for yourself – It may fall to the bottom of your list as you struggle to find time and resources. But you need to relieve stress and stay positive. At least once a week, plan a date night with your spouse and/or an outing with a friend.

Keep lines of communication open – Talk openly with all those involved in your situation. Share your struggles and goals with your spouse, but also with siblings and other relatives. Even those living far away may find ways to share the caregiving burden.

Look for and accept help – Turn to your kids and even friends who know your parents to help with visits and errands. And learn to say no when asked by others to volunteer for more than you can handle.

Look for resources – Look for supportive groups in your community, such as a respite program or in-home caregivers. Your parents’ doctors may be a good source for finding local resources.

Visit with professionals – Ask a pharmacist if you have questions about medications your parent is taking. Talk with a financial planner to help protect your family’s financial future. Consider talking with a therapist to help ease your stress.

Eat a nutritious diet – Three meals a day packed with protein and other nutrients will help give you needed energy.

Squeeze in time for exercise – Even 10 minutes a day can increase endorphins and improve your mood. Walk the dog. Take the stairs. Dance to a tune on the radio or practice a few yoga moves.

Allow room for mistakes – There will be times when you and your parent – or your spouse, or your kids, or your sister – may find yourself at odds. But even if one of you “loses it” now and then, dwelling on mistakes won’t help. Forgive yourself – or others – and move on.


This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2015. All rights reserved.

Saturday, August 22, 2015

Don’t Forget Your Moving Day Survival Kit

Moving day has a lot of moving parts. Almost everything you own is stored for transit, and finding
one or two essential items can be a major headache, even if you labeled your boxes.

To make the day as smooth as possible, I advise my clients make a “Moving Day Survival Kit.” It’s surprising how awesome having these items at your disposal is when you first land at your new home. From paper plates and plastic flatware for lunch to toilet paper for the obvious reasons, the Moving Day Survival Kit can be a real life-saver as you sort out where the furniture and boxes need to be.

Here’s what I recommend you pack in your Moving Day Survival Kit:

• Paper towels
• Glass cleaner
• Baby wipes
• Sharpie marker
• Duct or packing tape
• Large garbage bags
• Toilet paper
• Tape measure
• Picture hangers/anchors
• Needle nose pliers
• Screwdriver
• Wrench
• Pliers
• Box cutters (at least two)
• Scissors (at least two)
• Hammer
• Small level or download a leveling app on your smartphone
• Plastic silverware
• Paper plates
• Disposable / Solo cups
• Light bulbs in high & low wattage
• Extension cord(s)

An inexpensive plastic bin is a great way to assemble and store the kit separate from your other possessions. Feel free to add/omit items as you see fit, but with this list you’re sure to have everything covered.

I love to help buyers and sellers on their journey to moving day. Ready to move? Contact me
today.

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® and  Accredited Buyer’s Representative serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.


Wednesday, July 8, 2015

House and Home: Beware the Home Office Remodel

Remodeling Without Return

Many home remodeling projects do wonders for the value of the home. Certain upgrades and renovations pay dividends when it comes time to sell, and you often can recoup the money you’ve invested in the upgrade.

There are exceptions, however. And one stands head and shoulders above the rest (or should I say below) when it comes to return on investment:

The home office.

Surprised? It may seem like a home office would be a boon for your home at sale time, especially considering the number of people who telecommute and work online. But the fact of the matter is, a home office seldom recoups more than 45% of the money invested in the remodel.

Why? A couple of main factors.

First, even people who work at home often don’t work at home. When was the last time you walked into a coffee shop and didn't see a laptop open? Many people still find space outside the home to work.

Second, a full-on home office renovation often takes up a bedroom which new owners might want to be able to convert back into a bedroom. If you’ve spent the time and money having built-in furniture added, media wiring, and other “office like” details installed, it represents a cost to restore or lost-usage for the new owners.

Of course, if you need a home office and want to have the home office of your dreams, it might be worth it to you to put the return on investment aside. But don’t undertake the project thinking it will pay off down the line.

Curious which home remodeling projects pay off at the sale? Let’s talk about what you’re considering!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® and  Accredited Buyer’s Representative serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Sunday, July 5, 2015

Selling Your Home: Stage it to Sell

10 Steps to Selling Your Home Series


Selling a home in today’s complex real estate market can be stressful and difficult. However, choosing to work with experienced agents like The Treasure Coast Home Sales Team will ensure that things run as smoothly as possible.

Here is the third of our ten step overview of what the typical home selling process in Florida is like...

Step Three: Stage it to Sell


When you're ready to sell, staging puts your home's best foot forward.

1. Curb Appeal – Make a lasting first impression on buyers by mowing the lawn, power-washing the driveway and sidewalks, and keeping hedges trimmed.

2. Outdoor Social Areas – Adding comfortable seating and games to front porches or covered patios can highlight outdoor features of the home.

3. Storage Space – Buyers are attracted to homes with great storage space. Organize pantries, walk-in closets and utility rooms, and keep doors to these rooms ajar so that buyers know to look inside.

4. De-clutter and De-personalize –  While your home is decorated perfectly for you, buyers want to see themselves in the home and that's where staging comes in. This is why de-cluttering and
de-personalization become so important in the process. Take a look at what other sellers did to get ready for sale, and the results they experienced.

We can walk you through the benefits of staging and show you techniques that will attract the right buyer for your home. Call us today to discuss what staging strategies and resources we have available to increase the marketability of your home.

Please watch for our next informative post: MarketinYour Home or contact us now to schedule a time to discuss how we sell homes in greater Stuart, Florida.

Saturday, July 4, 2015

Home Buyers Toolkit: How to “Read a Neighborhood”

Buying a Home in Stuart, Florida - Is the Neighborhood Improving?


Like most things in real estate, neighborhoods are constantly changing in value. In some cases they can improve rapidly and decline gradually, but more often than not they change slowly, over time.

Ideally, you want to buy property in neighborhoods as they’re appreciating. You certainly don’t want to pay top dollar in a neighborhood which is in decline. So how can you tell which direction things are heading?

Home values over time are one way to tell, but they tend to lag behind the trends. Values reflect what the current situation is… they don’t predict the future.

While you definitely want to observe a neighborhood first-hand at different times of day and night, here are some other indicators of neighborhood value trends:

Positive indicators:

- Homes are receiving multiple offers
- Schools are well-rated and in demand
- Young families and creative types are moving to the neighborhood
- Older couples choose to remain in the neighborhood as they age
- Commercial properties are quickly redeveloped and leased

Negative indicators:

- The number of homes converted into rentals has increased
- Homes remain on the market longer
- Companies are relocating away or shutting down offices
- Commercial spaces are vacant for long stretches

Sometimes you can spot the potential in a bad neighborhood, but it often means you have to put up with the bad neighborhood for a long time before reaping the rewards. It’s a good idea to evaluate neighborhoods with these indicators in mind. Neighborhoods you have traditionally regarded as “good” or “bad” may have (or be under) significant change.

I am more than happy to help you with neighborhood research! Talk to me today to begin your hunt!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® and  Accredited Buyer’s Representative serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Saturday, June 27, 2015

Selling Your Home: Effective Pricing Leads to Success

10 Steps to Selling Your Home Series


Selling a home in today’s complex real estate market can be stressful and difficult. However, choosing to work with experienced agents like The Treasure Coast Home Sales Team will ensure that things run as smoothly as possible.

Here is the second of our ten step overview of what the typical home selling process in Florida is like...

Step Two: Effective Pricing Leads to Success


According to a recent report, about 90% of homebuyers surf the Web to begin their home search. That means home buyers are well aware of what properties are available on the market and the prices they are selling for. Therefore, now more than ever, pricing is the key to selling your home.
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Some sellers think that a higher price will give them some negotiating room. But in fact many buyers don't even look at a property that is overpriced, much less make an offer on it.

This can lead to the property's becoming "shop-worn." Buyers often inquire about the length of time a property has been on the market. If it has been on the market a long time, they wonder if there is something wrong with it. The sellers then have to drop the price, taking less than they might have if they had priced it correctly to begin with.
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Homes that are well-priced attract the buyers in their price range. The buyer's perception is that the home is a good buy, and then the seller is positioned to receive the listing price or close to it.

Please watch for our next informative post: Staging Your Home or contact us now for a personal, no-obligation consultation on the current real estate market and an analysis of your home.


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Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Sunday, June 21, 2015

10 Steps to Selling Your Home Series

Selling a home in today’s complex real estate market can be stressful and difficult. However, choosing to work with experienced agents like The Treasure Coast Home Sales Team will ensure that things run as smoothly as possible.

Here is the first of our ten step overview of what the typical home selling process in Florida is like...

Step One: define your needs and write down all the reasons for selling your home.


Ask yourself, “Why do I want to sell and what do I expect to accomplish with the sale?” For example, reasons for selling may include a growing business that needs more space or a job opportunity that necessitates a move to another city. Things you want to accomplish with the sale may include the time frame in which you’d like to sell or a particular profit margin.

Please watch for our next informative post: Pricing Strategy or feel free to contact us now to schedule a time to discuss how we sell homes in greater Stuart, Florida.

Thursday, June 11, 2015

Preparing Your Home to Sell: 5 Reasons Why Quality Paint Matters

One of the easiest and least costly ways to make a dramatic change in your interior décor, repainting a room is often just what’s needed to change your home’s look and feel. However, your great design inspiration can be shortchanged if you choose low-quality paint. Here’s why. Read More!

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Why Overpricing Can Hurt Sellers

Common Problems with Overpricing a Home


All sellers want their home to sell for the highest possible price. This is one reason  why it’s so easy for agents to “buy” listings. If you’re not familiar with the concept, “buying” a listing is when an agent (unscrupulously) tells a client their home is worth far more than the market value in order to win the listing.

Sellers are susceptible to this tactic because they want to believe, however irrationally, that their home is for some reason or another worth more than comparable homes on the market. Sometimes, though, sellers believe high home pricing is either an acceptable risk or even a benefit. Here’s what they say, and why it’s a problem:

1. “I can always come down in price later if I have to.”

Yes, it’s possible that someone will find the house irresistible and pay the inflated price, but the odds are the house will languish on the market until the price comes down. Buyers, though, will see this from a different perspective. They’ll be thinking: What’s wrong with the property? Maybe I can get this house for significantly below market value. Holding out for a high could end up leading to a desperation low.

2. “I have to keep the price high for negotiating purposes.”

A house isn't a used car. Don’t start far above what’s acceptable in order to pad out the negotiations. Buyers will have access to the same market data, and their agent will have a pretty good idea what the home’s true market value should be. The ruse will quickly come to pieces, so why not price right for a quick, fair sale?

3. “This is the price I need to get for my house.”

If that’s true, sellers should also prepared to stay put when the house doesn’t sell. Despite dire and important reasons why lower offers can’t be accepted, the market is indifferent to the seller’s situation. There are other homes and other sellers unencumbered by the same reasons.

4. “A house just like mine sold for this price… so why not mine?”

Sellers will assume houses are identical when the final price tells sweet story. Odds are there are other outstanding reasons the home sold above market value, especially when it comes to interior renovations.

I’m happy to give you an accurate valuation for your home. Let’s talk!

This post has been authored by Eric Slifkin, REALTOR® and Accredited Buyer’s Representative serving South Florida’s Treasure Coast. You can reach me at 888-288-1765, or visit my Web site. As your resource for information on new or resale homes throughout the Treasure Coast, please be sure to contact me about any home you may find on the Web, yard sign or ad and I will research the property, arrange showings and handle all the details.

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Q: Where Can I Find Luxury Townhomes in Stuart, FL?

A: River Glen is one of Stuart's newest townhome communities. This gated subdivision is situated along the South Fork of the St. Lucie River offering three bedroom designs with one or two car garages, and preserve or water views. Residents are minutes away from pristine Treasure Coast beaches, local golf courses, and "A" rated Martin County schools as well as the shopping, dining and cultural activities of Historic Downtown Stuart. Read more


River Glen Luxury Townhomes in Stuart, FL by Kolter Homes


Monday, May 25, 2015

Winter Rental in Stuart West at Palm City, FL

Now Accepting Reservations for the 2016 Winter Season

601 Southwest Stuart West Blvd, Palm City, FL

For Lease

$ Click for current price
3 BEDROOMS | 3 (3 full ) BATHROOMS | 3984 SQUARE FEET

Property Description

Furnished seasonal or short term rental in Stuart West at Palm City. This is a three bedroom, three bath pool home with den (presently used as a fourth bedroom) situated on a four acre parcel. Stuart West provides 24 hour gated security and is within minutes of I95 and the Florida Turnpike. Minimum three month rental. Application fee, background check required. Pets with restrictions. 10% tourist tax on rentals of less than six months.


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