Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Should I get a Home Inspection

Buying a home is a major decision. There's alot of planning and research that is needed proir to purchasing a home. Of course a great buyers agent helps alleviate the pressure and the research that goes along with a purchasing home. Also another pressure reliever is a home inspection. A home inspection is almost like purchasing a car insurance prior to purchasing the car.

An inspector does a physical inspection of the structure and systems of the home. They check the electrical outlets, check each sink and faucet to find any leaks, they will check the ac system amongst many other things. After the inspection, the inspector should provide a summary report that notes repairs that are found along with a full report that is broken down with each component of the home. The components include the foundation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, heating and air systems, plumbing (interior), electrical systems and the roof. To assure that you understand the report and anything noted, I advise all my buyers to be present at the inspection. Its easier to address questions and concerns while you are there.


The amount for an inspection ranges, by sq ft of the home, region and of course the inspector.


When you are ready for your inspection you can ask your agent for a referral list of inspectors or go to your local merchant circle site to locate an inspector. You can also ask friends and family if they have used someone in the past who they would recommend.
If you want to check for mold, termites or other speciality issues, you will have to hire a specialist to come and inspect the home. home.
Should I get a home inspection? I say absolutely yes. The home inspection can prevent future major expenses; your home is a hugh investment therefore you have to do the preliminary steps prior to making that commitment. Also, remember that there is a "inspection contingency" period therefore after the inspection you can request the seller make the repairs or you can cancel the contract.
To close out, Yes, yes, yes, get a home inspection prior to closing on your home.

Ainsley Daux
Florida Realty
(813)546-1954

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Is Florida's housing market bouncing back

U. S. economists: Fla.’s housing market bouncing back


According to Chief Economist Dr.John Tucillo Floida is in a mini-recovery. “Sales are trending up, listing inventories are falling, the supply of lender-related properties has stabilized, and we are seeing multiple offers on homes in some local markets.”In fact, Florida homes today may be undervalued, Tuccillo added. “That may seem like a drastic statement,” he said. “But a buyer who plans to own the home for five to seven years can get some great bargains today.
Working predominately with buyers, I have noticed the lack of iventory especially with bank owned homes. I have also noticed multiple offers on propeties and even noticed properties under contract the first day on the market. As the unemployment rate drops and lenders reduce lax there criteria, I believe will have more prospective buyers. I truly belive purchasing a home is still the "american dream" and many american want to own a home.
"Mark Vitner, senior economist at Wells Fargo in Charlotte, N.C., said the U.S. economy will continue to face significant challenges, particularly financial concerns related to the European debt crisis. But he expects the U.S. economic recovery will continue next year, making it easier for Midwesterners, for example, to buy Florida homes.“Florida’s economy is recovering, with tourism and healthcare leading the way,” Vitner said. “International tourism has been particularly strong in Miami and Orlando.”Looking around the state, Vitner said Jacksonville’s unemployment rate has dropped and home prices are stabilizing. In Orlando, prices have not yet reached bottom, he said, but the winter tourism season should help the regional economy. Tampa and Southwest Florida have seen solid job growth, with little new home construction. South Florida’s economy is growing thanks to trade relationships with Latin America and the Caribbean, while in the Panhandle, Fort Walton Beach is outperforming Panama City and Pensacola, according to Vitner.Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors®, said many Florida markets are showing sharp drops in inventories of homes for sale – a sign that demand is picking up and prices are stabilizing. “That’s a major change from just a year ago,” he said. “Buyers have stepped back into the Florida market.”Noting the state’s powerful appeal to international buyers, Yun said he was particularly optimistic about the outlook for South Florida. “Don’t be surprised to see a gain in home prices in the Miami and Naples markets in the next 18 months,” he said. “From there, the recovery is likely to roll northward to Central Florida and then North Florida.”Tuccillo noted that foreclosed and distressed properties will remain a significant part of the Florida market in 2012, but lenders are feeding these properties into the market at a gradual pace rather than pushing them out all at once.

Ainsley Daux
Lic FL. Realtor
FLorida Realty
(813)546-1954

Friday, December 2, 2011

Bank of America Extends Relocation Assitance

The Florida Enhanced Short Sale Relocation Assistance Program has been extended to Dec. 12, 2011.
This program offers enhanced relocation assistance to help encourage homeowners to engage with Bank of America on a pre-offer short sale. Homeowners may be eligible for relocation assistance between $5,000 and $20,000.*
Eligibility:

Homeowners with property in Florida
*Short sales initiated without an offer between Sept. 26 and Dec. 12, 2011
*The customer will have to be eligible for one of the without an offer programs, such as the *Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA) program or Bank of America's proprietary program (specific investor participation and eligibility criteria do apply to these programs)
*Successful closing of the eligible short sale by Aug. 31, 2012

For mor information Please contact:

Ainsley Daux
Lic Realtor
Florida Realty
(813)546-1954