Real Estate Blog | Gulf Coast of FL

Why Now is a Great Time to Sell Your House

If you’ve been considering selling your home, 2024 could be the perfect time. Several favorable market conditions are working in sellers' favor, making now an opportune moment to list your house. Here’s why: 1. High Buyer Demand in a Low Inventory Market Across many regions, the housing market is currently experiencing a shortage of homes for sale, creating what’s known as a seller’s market. With fewer homes available and strong demand from buyers, sellers have the upper hand

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Oct 15, 20243 min read

Moving Checklist: How to Prepare for Moving Day

Introduction Moving day can be overwhelming, but a well-structured plan makes it manageable. With so many tasks to juggle—packing, logistics, and paperwork—having a comprehensive checklist can save time, reduce stress, and keep everything on track. Whether you’re moving across town or cross-country, this guide will help you navigate the process smoothly. 8 Weeks Before the Move Organize and Plan Start by creating a moving binder or digital folder where you can keep track of q

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Oct 8, 20243 min read

Four Effective Ways to Lower Your Mortgage Rate and Save Thousands

If you're feeling frustrated by the current state of mortgage rates, you're not alone. While average rates on 30-year fixed mortgages are hovering just below 6.5%—a decrease from last year's peak of 7.79% but still higher than rates from three years ago—there are proactive steps you can take to secure a better deal. According to a new report from the Realtor.com® economic research team, borrowers can potentially lower their mortgage rate by nearly 1.5 percentage points, or 15

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Oct 1, 20243 min read

Transform Your Home with the “Very Demure” Trend: A Guide to a Serene and Stylish Makeover

In the world of interior design, trends come and go, but some have the power to transform spaces into sanctuaries of calm and elegance. One such trend is the “very demure, very mindful” approach to home decor. This trend emphasizes simplicity, subtlety, and intentionality, resulting in serene and thoughtfully designed living spaces. Realtor.com asked a host of interior experts to share some brilliant tips on how you can give your home a “mindful, cutesy” makeover just in ti

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Sep 24, 20244 min read

Is Installing an EV Charger at Home Worth It? Pros, Cons, and Key Considerations

With the electric vehicle (EV) market booming, more homeowners are considering installing EV chargers to keep pace with the growing adoption of battery-powered cars. As technology evolves, EVs can now travel significantly further on a single charge—take the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV with a 400-mile range compared to the 2012 Nissan Leaf’s 73-mile range. But before you decide to install an EV charger at home, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Here’s what you need to kno

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Sep 17, 20243 min read

The Downward Trend in Mortgage Rates: What It Means for Homebuyers

As of late August 2024, the real estate market is experiencing a notable shift. Mortgage rates have dropped significantly, reaching a 15-month low. This decrease, driven by expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut, is revitalizing a housing market that had been somewhat subdued during the summer months. Here’s an in-depth look at why mortgage rates are falling, and what this trend means for prospective homebuyers. Understanding the Drop in Mortgage Rates Recent Developments

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Sep 10, 20243 min read

Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal: Quick Tips for a Lasting Impression

Selling your home or just want to make it shine? A little curb appeal can go a long way. First impressions count, and the exterior of your house is the first thing buyers see. Here are some entertaining and easy tips to spruce up your home's exterior and make it irresistible. 1. Clean Slate with Pressure Washing Dirt, grime, and moss can accumulate over time, making your home look tired. Grab a pressure washer and blast away the muck from your sidewalks, driveways, and the ex

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Sep 3, 20242 min read

Is it a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market? Understanding Market Trends for Better Home Buying and Selling

When it comes to real estate, understanding whether you're in a buyer's or seller's market can make a significant difference in your buying or selling strategy. These market conditions dictate how much leverage you have during negotiations, how long a property stays on the market, and ultimately, how satisfied you'll be with the final deal. Let’s break down what each market condition means and how you can best navigate it. What is a Buyer’s Market? A buyer’s market occurs whe

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Aug 27, 20243 min read

Debunking Common Myths About the Current Housing Market

The housing market has been decidedly stuck of late. Sellers with low mortgage rates are holding on to their homes, leaving buyers with scant listings to choose from. And buyers who do find a house face substantial economic challenges as median home prices and mortgage rates remain high. With sellers and buyers at an impasse, misconceptions and outright myths are popping up on both sides about the state of the market on social channels and forums. However, some of the suppos

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Aug 20, 20244 min read

The Hidden Costs of Selling Your Home: Why Investing in Curb Appeal Matters

Selling a house can be costly even before listing it. According to Zillow and Thumbtack, sellers typically spend around $5,380 on pre-listing improvements like cleaning, staging, landscaping, and painting to make a stellar first impression. But is it worth it? Absolutely. Here’s why investing in curb appeal pays off. The Importance of Curb Appeal Curb appeal is crucial for a good first impression and can significantly impact your home’s resale value. Zillow's 2022 research fo

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Aug 14, 20242 min read

Florida Dominates for First-Time Homebuyers: What You Need to Know

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, Florida might just be the perfect place for you. According to a new WalletHub survey, six of the top ten cities in the nation for first-time homebuyers are located in the Sunshine State. This comprehensive survey evaluated 300 U.S. cities based on 22 key metrics, including affordability, real estate market, and quality of life factors like crime rates and real estate taxes. Top Florida Cities for First-Time Homebuyers The survey’s results hig

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Aug 6, 20242 min read

The Rise of Short-Term Rentals: A New Hotspot for Vacationers

In recent years, the Appalachian region has emerged as a popular destination for short-term rental vacationers. "Appalachia is made up of 423 counties across 13 states and spans 206,000 square miles, from southern New York to northern Mississippi. The Region’s 26.4 million residents live in parts of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, and all of West Virginia" (Appalachian R

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jul 30, 20243 min read

Sellers Cutting Prices in These Florida Cities: What It Means for Buyers

The real estate market in Florida is showing a new trend: sellers in certain cities are cutting prices. For potential buyers and sellers, understanding these price adjustments is crucial. Here’s a closer look at the cities experiencing these changes and what it means for the housing market. Cities Seeing Price Cuts Recent data indicates that several cities in Florida are witnessing price reductions on homes. These cities include: - Miami - Orlando - Tampa - Jacksonville - For

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jul 23, 20243 min read

Discover the Hometown Heroes Program: Empowering Florida's Essential Workers

Florida is home to many heroes who serve our communities daily, from healthcare workers and first responders to educators and law enforcement officers. Recognizing their invaluable contributions, the state has launched the Hometown Heroes Program, an initiative designed to support these essential workers in achieving homeownership. What is the Hometown Heroes Program? The Hometown Heroes Program, part of Florida’s Live Local Act, is a comprehensive housing assistance initiati

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jul 16, 20242 min read

Summer Housing Market Report: What You Need to Know

The recent housing market has shown significant trends and shifts that both buyers and sellers need to understand. Zillow’s latest report reveals key insights into the current real estate landscape, shedding light on market dynamics that are shaping buying and selling decisions across the nation. Rising Home Prices Continue The market witnessed a steady increase in home prices in May, a trend that has persisted over the past few months. The national median home price rose by

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jul 9, 20243 min read

Swimming Safety Tips from Your Local Realtor

Summer is here, and nothing beats cooling off with a refreshing swim. Whether you're enjoying a dip in your backyard pool or taking advantage of the community swimming facilities, safety should always be a top priority. As your local realtor, I not only want you to find your dream home but also to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe and happy. Here are some essential swimming safety tips to keep in mind this season. 1. Supervision is Key Never leave children unatten

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jul 2, 20243 min read

Florida Hurricane Safety: Essential Tips to Keep You Prepared

Living in Florida, it's crucial to be prepared for hurricane season. These powerful storms can cause significant damage, but with the right precautions, you can ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your property. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you stay safe during hurricane season. 1. Create a Hurricane Preparedness Plan Family Communication Plan: Establish a plan for how your family will communicate during a hurricane. Make sure everyone knows emergency con

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jun 27, 20243 min read

Exciting New Blues Festival in Lakewood Ranch

The cancellation of the Bradenton Blues Festival, a staple event for over a decade, left many blues enthusiasts disappointed. However, the spirit of the festival will live on in the inaugural Lakewood Ranch Blues Festival, set for December 7 at Waterside Place. The event will feature a lineup of acclaimed blues musicians, including Grammy-nominated artists. Organized by Morgan Bettes Angell and Paul E. Benjamin, the festival aims to continue the legacy of its predecessor, off

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jun 19, 20242 min read

New Guidance for Buyer Agreements: Navigating Upcoming Practice Changes

In a changing real estate landscape, staying updated on regulations is crucial for professionalism and smooth transactions. The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) has developed a new guide on written buyer agreements. This guide helps members prepare for upcoming practice changes after NAR's recent settlement agreement. Understanding the New Guidance for Buyer Agreements Starting August 17, 2024, buyer representatives must enter written agreements before touring homes. T

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jun 11, 20242 min read

Home Buying Process Checklist

Buying a house is a significant milestone, and understanding what to expect can help you navigate the process with greater confidence and ease. Here's your trusted real estate agent, Jessica Dunnam's, comprehensive home buying process checklist to guide you through the journey from initial planning to closing the deal: 1. Initial Planning and Research ☐ Determine your budget: Assess your financial situation, considering savings, income, and expenses. ☐ Check your credit scor

Jessica Dunnam, PA REALTOR

Jun 4, 20242 min read

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