August 2016

Reasons to Love Lake Mary

Lake Mary is a beautiful city that has all of the conveniences you need. There are dozens of reasons to move to Lake Mary but here are a few of our favorites.

Location!

This area is one of the safest and most desirable areas of the Orlando metro area. With both I-4 and SR-417 only a few minutes away you’re already half-way to Downtown Orlando, half-way to the beach, or half-way to theme parks like Disney, Seaworld, and Universal!

Natural Florida

Lake Mary lives up to its name as the City of Lakes with dozens of local lakes and nature trails nearby. Take a day trip out to New Smyrna or Daytona Beach for a day of fun in the sun! There is also canoeing, kayaking, swimming, or tubing available at local watering holes like Wekiwa Springs, Rock Springs Run, and Blue Springs.

Great Schools

Seminole County is home to the best schools in Orlando. Local homes are zoned for phenomenal public schools all with excellent ratings by the Florida Department of Education, there’s also several close by private, charter, and magnet schools. There are also many neighboring schools with excellent magnet programs.

Charming Local Community

Lake Mary has beautiful country clubs, shopping centers, and restaurants. Citrus and celery farms may not be as prevalent in the area as they once were, but fresh produce is always available every Saturday at the Lake Mary Farmer’s Market. Every first Wednesday enjoy Wineart Wednesday which includes a local art stroll, wine/beer garden, shopping, and live music. During Christmas time enjoy thousands of twinkling lights that illuminate all of Downtown Lake Mary.

Interested in moving to Lake Mary or to Central Florida? Click here or call 407-493-0719! Or take a look at our available listings here!

3 Big Signs It’s Time To Sell Your Home

When many buy a new home, they don’t plan on living there forever, but knowing when you need to sell can be a challenge. Whether your family is growing or you need a change of scenery, here are some great tips on when to know it’s time to sell.

1. Your home no longer matches your life

In some cases, you’ve outgrown a bachelor pad, or you’re expecting a child, or just need a little more space. The same can be true if you need less space or if you’ve decided you live in an inconvenient location from friends, family, or work. Whatever your situation, if your home or neighborhood are no longer a good fit, it’s probably the right time to sell and find a home and location that fits your life.

2. You have equity in your home

Your equity is your home’s value minus any home loans. If the home’s sale price is enough to pay off your current mortgage, plus additional selling costs, and any out of pocket money involved in closing the deal, then it’s a good indication that you can sell. Not sure if you have equity? We can help! Contact us here.

3. You can afford to move

Yes, you are going to make money when you sell your home, but if you plan on buying again there are going to be costs. This includes applying for a new mortgage, a down payment, potential movers, the list can go on. If you prepare for these costs in advance selling can be a much smoother process.

Having an experienced and professional realtor on your side is the best advantage you can have when selling a home. Your realtor is there to help you along the way and prepare you with all of the knowledge you need before you move. Ready to sell or move to Central Florida? Speak with a realtor by contacting us directly at (407) 493-0719 or click here for a free home selling consultation.

Tips for First Time Home Buyers

Buying a home for the first time can be a challenge that is both thrilling and nerve-wracking at the same time. To help you with the process here are some handy tips to make life easier when purchasing your first home.

Be real about your budget.

When it comes to buying anything it’s important to be realistic about how much money you have to spend and to know what you’re spending things on. The same goes for your home, especially as a first time home buyer. Of all the first timer tips there are, this one can be considered the most important.

Get organized.

House hunting doesn’t have to be a stressful process if you take an organized approach. Talk to your realtor and your bank about what information you’ll need and the most effective way to be prepared once you’re ready to buy.

Timing is everything.

After you have all of your ducks in a row and you feel ready to buy, don’t hesitate to start looking. It’s not uncommon for a great home to sell quickly, especially if there is a cash buyer involved. Having an experienced realtor on hand can help ensure you get the right house at the right time.

Ask questions!

Buying your first home is an important decision and there’s a lot more information to cover. Which is why you shouldn’t be afraid to ask your realtor any questions, that’s what we’re here for!

These few tips should help put you on the path to buying your first home. If you need to get in touch with an expert realtor or learn more about the home-buying process contact us here. You can also download our thorough FREE home-buyers handbook here, it has helpful information for both new and old buyers!

5 Reasons to Move to Orlando

So you loved your last visit, now it’s time to consider the move. There are many reasons to love the City Beautiful but here are our top five best reasons to move to Orlando.

Unlimited Recreational Activities

This state is full of natural treasures that are absolutely incredible. There are numerous natural springs, biking/hiking trails, and over 100 named Lakes in Orlando for you to adventure. Take day trips to the beach, swim through underwater caves, or visit the largest subtropical wetland, the Everglades.

The Amusement Park Capital

There is no other destination that has as many famous and iconic characters. Including the most popular mouse, Marvel superheroes, Star Wars Jedi, and Lego legends. The amusement parks also represent a segment of the state’s economy that creates thousands of career opportunities.

Sports Fan Paradise

Florida is a sports fanatic’s dream come true with ten professional sports teams and dozens of minor league/collegiate teams. Whether it’s football, basketball, golf, water sports, hockey, soccer, or racing, Central Florida is home to some of the top teams and sporting professionals in the US.

Hard Work Pays Of f

Florida is one of seven states with no state income tax which means more of the money you worked hard for goes right to you. Many states can collect up to 10% in state income tax. In addition, Florida has an overall less expensive cost of living compared to other major states. Making it a better quality of living for residents.

Beautiful Weather All Year

Many states endure polar opposite weather conditions, and while the rest of the country is cold in December, people in Florida are suntanning. In Orlando the most you’ll need all year is an umbrella. No need for salt or a shovel, heavy layering, or emergency kits for when you’re stranded on the highway.

Orlando is not only a great place to visit but an awesome city to live in. Whether you’re looking for recreation or relaxation there’s something for everyone. Want to start looking at houses now? Take a look here or call (407) 493-0719.