Emerald Coast & 30A Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/blog/Copyright TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com2024-02-04T08:05:38-07:00tag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:41794New Listing! 30A Beach House with Private Pool<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/property-search/detail/40/941329/33-seaward-dr-santa-rosa-beach-fl-32459/" title="33 Seaward Dr - 30A Home for Sale"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/blogphotos/thumb/1068/41794-web-33-seaward-drive-21-blog.jpg" alt="33 Seaward Dr For Sale" title="33 Seaward Dr For Sale" style="float: left; margin: 0px 20px 20px 0px !important;" /></a>Located in the gated community of Sunrise Beach just south of <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/30a/" title="30A Homes for Sale">30A</a>, this fully renovated beach home, offering 3 bedrooms plus a bunk room and private pool, is strategically located only 3 homes from the Gulf. Projections of $151K underline its potential for the complete 2024 rental season, providing convenient access to the deeded beach and Shunk Gulley/<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/30a/gulf-place/" title="Gulf Place Homes for Sale">Gulf Place</a>. The comprehensive 2022 updates include a redesigned master suite, a brand-new bunk room, and a modernized kitchen layout.
MLS #941329: Offered at $2,200,000; please click <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/property-search/detail/40/941329/33-seaward-dr-santa-rosa-beach-fl-32459/" title="30A Beach Home for Sale ">HERE</a> for full details and photos, and contact me for more info!
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/property-search/detail/40/941329/33-seaward-dr-santa-rosa-beach-fl-32459/" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary-hollow" title="33 Seaward Dr">All Photos & Full Details Here</a>2024-02-02T08:09:16-07:002024-02-04T08:05:38-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:397827 Reasons You Should Have Your Future Home Inspected
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/future-home-inspect.jpg" width="778" height="410" alt="Home Inspection" title="7 Reasons You Should Have Your Future Home Inspected" />
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/blog/common-things-to-look-out-for-before-buying-your-dream-home/" title="Before Buying Your Dream Home">Buying a new home</a> is special. Whether for the first time or the tenth, a new home brings a sense of excitement. Getting an electrical safety inspection before buying is essential, as it will inform you of potential electrical repairs needed and pinpoint any risks. This guide will help educate you on what to expect during an inspection and seven key reasons your future home needs one.
Electricity Can Be Dangerous
We all know that electricity poses some inherent risks. Things can go wrong at a moment's notice or when one system component is not quite right. Poorly maintained or improperly wired electrical systems usually lead to an inevitable conclusion …. electrical fire.
According to the <a href="https://www.nfpa.org/" title="National Fire Protection Assoc" target="_blank">National Fire Protection Association</a>, there were 24,200 residential fires caused by electrical malfunctions in 2021. Not only is this number up by 11% from the ten years prior, but fires caused by electrical malfunctions, usually DIY electrical repairs, are considered entirely preventable. Electrical inspections could have prevented many of these fires, which is an excellent argument for getting an inspection.
What Is an Electrical Inspection?
An electrical inspection looks at every electrical component of the home. If anything needs attention or code requirements are unmet, the review will report to the homeowner what they are. A proper inspection will be thorough, and you should receive a write-up of anything found along with the overall status of the electrical in the home.
There are general areas that the inspector should be looking at, including the panel, the wiring, and the outlets and switches in the home. An inspection wants to see that the National Electrical Code has been adhered to and do so with specific checks like:
Size of electrical panel (100 amps or greater)
Appropriate number of circuits for electrical demand
Dedicated circuits for large appliances
Condition of the electrical panel
GFCI outlets near water sources and outside
Proper outlet grounding
Wiring safety
Light Bulb wattage
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Alignment with the most recently updated electrical code
Correct electrical box height and installation
After your inspection, it should be clear what upgrades or repairs are needed and how much potential work there will be. You don’t want to buy a home and be stuck with unexpected work.
7 Reasons You Need Your Future Home Inspected
Electrical inspections should be done on a future home, preferably before you close. The examination can make or break a particular dwelling’s appeal, and you have a right to know if there are any issues before you commit.
These reasons show the necessity of a proper inspection.
Avoid Costly Repairs
A home inspection helps avoid the potential for unseen, unknown electrical issues. These problems are often expensive because they require the most time and energy. An inspection informs you of significant issues like a rusty or water-damaged electrical panel or improperly wired circuits. These are costly to repair and may lead to even more problems you may be unwilling to undertake.
An inspection may also reveal that an entire electrical upgrade is needed. If you don’t have enough amps of power in your panel or there are no tamper-proof outlets, these things must be handled to meet electrical codes, or the home may be unsafe. If you don’t want to dedicate the time or the money, you might want a different house.
Minimize the Risks for Unknown Electrical Hazards
An electrical safety inspection tells if there are any serious electrical hazards in the home. It will inform you of the things that need immediate attention or if they can be done over time. Your inspection will tell you all about the electrical hazards currently present in the home. Unknown electrical risks put families at risk and should be avoided or repaired.
There might be ungrounded switches, putting you at risk for electrical shock. The home could have over-fused circuits, which inspectors may say to express when the breaker's amperage is too large for the circuit’s purpose. This creates the possibility that there is excess current causing the wiring to overheat, which inevitably causes fire.
Ensure Everything Works
A professional examining a new home's electrical ins and outs will guarantee knowledge of any lights, switches, or outlets working improperly. A good inspection also checks that everything is working at the proper amperage for the circuit breaker that controls it, so the risk of overloaded outlets is minimized. You need to know this to plan for any necessary electrical repairs or ask the seller to do so before you buy.
Meet Electrical Code Requirements
Meeting electrical code requirements is a good reason to get an electrical inspection. The National Electrical Code is the standard for electrical safety and protects against poorly done upgrades and fire hazards.
If the home electrical is not up to code, it must be made code-compliant. You could be in for costly upgrades if you are unaware <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/blog/guide-to-getting-mortgage-ready/" title="Guide to Getting Mortgage Ready">before you purchase</a>. Plus, if the home can’t be brought to code, the safety risk posed will make the home uninhabitable.
Save Money
An electrical safety inspection will minimize the potential for costly repairs, both in the future and before you close. Buying a house is a huge purchase, and making sure that the home will not cost even more is important to most home buyers.
If the home needs more extensive repairs and you have it inspected before closing, it opens you up to the possibility of negotiations with the seller. They may be responsible for the repair cost and could be willing to lower the asking price due to any excessive electrical costs to have a professional come work on the electrical system.
Protect Your Investment
Electrical inspections protect a home’s future value. It shows you took the time to properly examine the home and address any problems. If you choose to sell the house later, it gives you a record of electrical code compliance.
Also, note that any electrical inspections will be filed with the proper authorities of the city or county the house is located in, making it possible for someone to look up if an inspection has been performed. This also allows you to check on any prior assessments, ensure that the proper measures have been taken, and show the home has been cared for properly.
Be Prepared for Future Electrical Maintenance and Upgrades
Electrical inspections show the maintenance needed for an electrical system. You will know future needs and can prepare for or prevent any significant problems. It also makes you aware of any required upgrades in the foreseeable future to remain compliant. It never hurts to be ready for what comes next.
Additionally, it allows you to never get in over your head. It is overwhelming to find out things are not as they appear, especially when you finally think you have found your forever home. If you are willing to fix it, then an inspection also sets out a plan of attack for your new home.
What Should You Check When House Hunting?
While you are looking at different homes, there are things you can look at to gain a fundamental understanding of a potential home’s electrical. Though a complete electrical safety inspection is the best choice, you can check these things yourself.
Check that the main breaker is 100 amps or more
Check for loose wires
Check the condition of the breaker
Check for GFCI outlets near water and outdoors
Check for any prior remodels on record and see how they were done
The panel needs to be labeled clearly and correctly
These things can be easily observed and will alert you to any problems that an electrical safety inspection should further test. You may want to continue your house search if you still see glaring issues.
Avoid Potential Risks
Don’t skip the electrical inspection. It is imperative to keep you safe, to understand potential expenses, and to learn about the system in the home. An inspection also gives you an idea about future maintenance and keeps you from getting in over your head. You’ll learn how to make the system efficient and save on electricity so you don’t waste money.
Hire the Right Electrical Inspector
Proper electrical inspections are done by <a href="https://mrelectric.com/san-antonio" title="Licensed Electricians" target="_blank">licensed electricians</a> who understand the electrical code and the potential electrical hazards in a home. They will also know what to check for based on the year the house was constructed.
Don’t think you can afford an inspection? The Home Energy Audit Tax Credit provides $150 towards hiring an electrical inspector to check your home. They have suggested services you can choose from for the right inspector. You need to obtain a report stating current usage and the potential improvements to maximize efficiency.
Everything comes down to comfort in a beautiful home you can love and be safe in. Make sure your future residence is perfect because there is no place like home.2023-10-16T12:10:09-07:002023-10-16T13:15:00-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:35198Stunning Condo on Holiday Isle, Destin, $986,000<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/property-search/detail/40/912598/223-durango-road-destin-fl-32541/" title="Destin Harbor Resort, Unit 5C for Sale"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/5D_Thumbnail.jpg" width="300" alt="Durango Road #UNIT 5D" title="Durango Road #UNIT 5D" style="float: left; margin: 0px 20px 20px 0px !important;" /></a>Owner financing is available! <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin-harbor-resort-west/" title="Destin Harbor Resort Condo for Sale">Destin Harbor Resort</a> condo w/ boat slip & lift, deeded beach access, 2nd slip rental option on <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/condos/holiday-isle-condos/`" title="Holiday Isle Condos for Sale">Holiday Isle</a>! Large balconies in the coveted 'D' stack offer stunning views of <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin-condos/" title="Destin Condos for Sale">Destin</a> & all its activities. Updated interior w/ LVP flooring, Hunter Douglas window treatments, Trane A/C, custom closets, granite counters, new cabinets in kitchen & baths, soaking tub, custom coffee bar, & more! Incl. ext. storage unit for beach & fishing gear!
MLS #912598: Offered at $986,000; please click <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/property-search/detail/40/912598/223-durango-road-destin-fl-32541/" title="Destin Harbor Resort Condo for Sale ">HERE</a> for full details and photos, and contact me for more info!
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/property-search/detail/40/912598/223-durango-road-destin-fl-32541/" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary-hollow">All Photos & Full Details Here</a>2023-03-17T17:51:44-07:002024-02-02T08:22:11-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:35184Best Destin, Florida Resorts<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Top_Resorts_1.jpeg" width="778" height="410" alt="Top Destin Florida Resorts" title="Top Destin Florida Resorts" />
Are you considering investing in a condo in Destin, Florida? VacationIdea.com has published its list of the "<a href="https://vacationidea.com/florida/best-destin-resorts.html" title="12 Best Destin, Florida Resorts" target="_blank">12 Best Destin, Florida Resorts</a>" for your next destination vacation. These <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin-condos/" title="Destin, Florida Condos">Destin, Florida Condos</a> could be the perfect investment opportunity for anyone looking for properties where the rental market is strong and where their families will relish visiting for years to come.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/silver-beach-towers/" title="Silver Beach Towers Condos for Sale">Silver Beach Towers</a> — Luxury beachfront condos for rent or to own, with resort amenities, including two beachfront pools, a tennis court, BBQ grills, private beaches, and more. Guests receive an umbrella and two beach chairs during their stay.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/crystal-sands/" title="Crystal Sands Condos for Sale">Crystal Sands</a> — Crystal Sand is a quiet and intimate beachfront resort with two beachfront, three-story condo buildings in the <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/crystal-beach/" title="Crystal Beach Homes for Sale">Crystal Beach</a> area of Destin. All units feature Gulf of Mexico views and complimentary beach rentals. Guests also have access to a seasonally-heated pool and more.
Destin Holiday Beach Resort — This is a small privately-owned resort and not currently available for sale. In lieu, you may consider purchasing a condo in neighboring <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/st-martin/" title="St. Martin Beachwalk for Sale">St. Martin Condos</a> or #6, <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/pelican-beach-resort/" title="Pelican Beach Resort for Sale">Pelican Beach Resort</a>.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/emerald-grande/" title="Emerald Grande Condos for Sale">Emerald Grande</a> at HarborWalk Village — The Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village offers vacation rentals perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations. Located in the heart of HarborWalk Village, guests can enjoy local restaurants and entertainment steps away. The resort features panoramic ocean views from spacious balconies, a fitness center, a full-service spa, heated pools overlooking the Gulf, several restaurants, and a full-time concierge.
Henderson Park Inn — In 2021, this quaint 37-room boutique inn was purchased by the owners of #12, <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/henderson-resort/" title="Henderson Beach Resort for Sale">Henderson Beach Resort</a>. The resort is adjacent to the Inn and has exceptional amenities, including a hotel with restaurants, a rooftop bar, and multiple pools with lazy rivers. Opportunities to purchase include single-family homes (The Cottages) and condominiums (Parkside & The Lofts). Editor comment: This is our personal favorite since we own an investment property here.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/pelican-beach-resort/" title="Pelican Beach Resort">Pelican Beach Resort</a> — This resort overlooks the famous white sandy beaches and the Gulf of Mexico. It's a resort community with well-furnished condos with all the resort amenities needed and just a short walk away from main tourist attractions.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sandestin/" title="Sandestin Homes for Sale">Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort</a> — Large resort with over 1,250 vacation rentals, ranging from studios to four-bedroom units, villas, condos, penthouses, and homes. Guests enjoy more than 20 dining options, world-class golf courses, shopping, kayaking, tennis, biking, paddle boarding, and more.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/seascape/" title="Seascape Homes for Sale">Seascape Golf, Beach, and Tennis Resort</a> — Escape to paradise. Stunning condos offer breathtaking views and luxurious amenities, perfect for families and couples alike. Tee off at our championship golf course or play a match on one of our eight tennis courts. Explore the beauty of the Emerald Coast with a scenic bike ride, nature walk, or day at the beach.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/silver-shells/" title="Silver Shells Condos for Sale">Silver Shells Beach Resort & Spa</a> — Discover a landmark beachfront resort in Destin. Located along the Gulf of Mexico, the resort borders the scenic Henderson Beach State Park, offering stunning views of the ocean. Experience luxury at its finest with our fitness facilities, sparkling pools, full-service spa, beach services, dining, and lavish accommodations.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sterling-shores/" title="Sterling Shores Condos for Sale">Sterling Shores Beach Resort</a> — Stay at Sterling Shores for family fun. Condos have full amenities, including televisions, a kitchen, and a washer and dryer. Resort has a lagoon-style pool, a beachfront pool, and a family fitness center.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sterling-shores/" title="Sundestin Condos for Sale">Sundestin Beach Resort</a> — Stay in the heart of Destin at the luxurious Sundestin Beach Resort. Enjoy spacious condo units with gulf views, equipped kitchens, and private balconies. Take advantage of easy access to recreational facilities, dining, golfing, fishing, and more. Plus, on-site amenities include a 3,000+ sq ft meeting space.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/henderson-resort/" title="Henderson Resort for Sale">The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa</a> — This resort seamlessly merges the nostalgia of yesteryear with contemporary conveniences. This four-story hotel in Crystal Beach offers a variety of amenities, including two pools, four restaurants, spa rooms, lounges, bars, a fitness center, and private beach access.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/palms-of-destin/" title="Palms of Destin Condos for Sale">The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center</a> — Choose from spacious one, two, or three-bedroom condo vacation rentals with modern comforts, fully-equipped kitchens, balconies, and more. Enjoy nature trails, fresh seafood meals, water sports, and more, with a fitness center and heated pools available.
Condos for Sale, Destin, Fl
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If you're considering making the Emerald Coast your home or buying a 30A vacation home, or investment property, we would love to assist you. Please <a title="Contact Us" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/contact/">send us a message</a> or visit our <a title="Emerald Coast Communities" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/">neighborhood pages</a> on <a title="Emerald Coast Real Estate" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/">TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com</a> to begin the search for the perfect property.
2023-03-16T15:11:38-07:002023-03-28T14:32:26-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:28933WaterColor Florida: A Home That Lives Up To Its Name<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/WaterColor_Blog_2.png" width="778" height="410" alt="WaterColor Western Lake" title="WaterColor Florida" />
Imagine a community of elegant homes surrounded on three sides by lush greenery. It already sounds beautiful, right? Now imagine that the fourth side is a pristine beach, soft white sand glistening in the rays of the Florida sun. Now that sounds like paradise. Even this is not the full extent of what this magical place has to offer. A beautiful downtown area and the nearby Grayton Beach State Park and Western Lake all add to the appeal of this picturesque community. If this feels like the kind of place where you’d love to own a home, you’re not alone. There’s a reason why the Florida panhandle, especially the area along Scenic Highway 30A, is becoming known as one of the best places in America to live. WaterColor might be the most beautiful out of all the communities here. Taking a look at <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=385840" title="WaterColor Homes">WaterColor homes</a> for sale might be the most fulfilling thing you do this year.
In the Heart of the Florida Panhandle
Nestled against the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, WaterColor sits alongside Scenic Highway 30A. This 500-acre thriving community sits in South Walton and truly embodies the beauty of the Florida panhandle. Bordering the town of Seaside, WaterColor is just a short trip from both Grayton Beach and Western Lake. It can be hard to find a place that has this much diversity of landscapes. There are a lot of beaches out there, but how many have coastal forests, lakes, parks, and gardens all within walking distance? With such a wide variety of scenery to be found in a single place, WaterColor is not just a one-trick pony.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/WaterColor_Bridge.png" width="778" height="410" alt="WaterColor Biking" title="WaterColor Natural Beauty" />
Natural Beauty Abounds
WaterColor itself has 1500 meters of beach frontage. Nearby you can also find Seaside, Santa Rosa Beach, and <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/rosemary-beach/" title="Rosemary Beach Real Estate">Rosemary Beach</a>. With all this pristine beachfront, you have plenty of options for spots to park your beach towel. It all depends on what kind of beach experience you enjoy. When you think of the beach, do you picture throngs of people splashing in the water, playing beach volleyball, and surfing? WaterColor has you covered. Maybe you picture a secluded nook where you can lay out a blanket and get a tan while reading a good book. WaterColor has that too.
While the beaches might be the main attraction in the area, WaterColor actually provides a very diverse landscape. Branching out from the community itself is a beautiful coastal forest of oaks, pines, magnolias, cypresses, and palmettos.
Sun, Sun, and More Sun
It almost goes without saying that the weather is ideal for most of the year. Who doesn’t love an abundance of clear sunny days and a short winter season? T-shirts, shorts, and sandals are acceptable to wear for most of the year, and even in the coolest months, the biggest worry is whether a dip in the ocean might be a little more chilly than usual. How does an average temperature of sixty-eight degrees sound? There’s a reason why so many people retire in Florida. That said, why wait until you’re retired to enjoy beautiful weather all year?
What to Do in WaterColor
The benefit of a planned community like WaterColor is…it’s planned! Every detail has been designed to help make WaterColor the perfect place to live. The landscaping is breathtaking. The downtown area is perfectly laid out to maximize strolling enjoyment. The beaches are close, making it convenient to hit the sand day after day. Small parks and gardens are spotted throughout the community, ensuring there is beautiful greenery wherever you go. Most people could spend their whole lives on the beach, which is certainly an option here. However, there are so many more ways to spend a day here for those who like a little variety.
Go Window Shopping at Seaside
The downtown square of <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/seaside/" title="Seaside Homes for Sale">Seaside</a> is located just a half-mile from WaterColor. Take a romantic walk through the downtown area and visit a few of the quaint little shops to see if anything strikes your fancy.
Visit Western Lake
Western Lake sits between WaterColor and Grayton Beach. It’s one of the largest coastal dune lakes, and there’s plenty to see and do there. A boat launch is available, but <a href="https://g.page/BoatHousePaddleClub?share" title="WaterColor Boathouse" target="_blank">kayak and canoe rentals</a> also help get you on the water even if you're not a boater. For the more adventurous, water skiing is always an option. If you like an activity with a slower pace, Western Lake fishing is just the thing.
Enjoy Grayton Beach
This beautiful <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/grayton-beach/" title="Grayton Beach Homes" target="_blank">Grayton Beach</a> is ranked as one of the top beaches in the country year after year. However, there’s a lot more to this place than just a stretch of sand. <a href="https://www.floridastateparks.org/graytonbeach" title="Grayton Beach State Park" target="_blank">Grayton Beach State Park</a> also features over four miles of trails winding through a statuesque coastal forest. Scrub oaks and magnolia trees are dominant here, providing both the backdrop for a beautiful hike and comforting shade.
Make the Most of the Waterfront
Not all beaches are created equal. How much nicer is it to sip your cocktail when you’ve got a chair and umbrella set up to give you respite from the sun? How much better is nighttime on the beach with a bonfire blazing nearby? WaterColor has it all.
Get on a Board
WaterColor has surfing and boogie boarding because…of course, it does. What sort of beach paradise is complete without the thrill of getting on a surfboard and shredding some waves?
Hit the Links
Some of the most beautiful <a href="https://www.visitsouthwalton.com/listings/golf/" title="Golf in South Walton" target="_blank">golf courses</a> in the country are located along the scenic 30A highway. With ten golf courses nearby and warm weather year-round, a day on the fairway (hopefully) is an option any month of the year.
Visit Cerulean Park
The small-town feel of WaterColor already makes it something of a hidden gem, but for residents looking for an even more serene getaway, there’s <a href="https://goo.gl/maps/3N8CpQPQE8ZeMA2A7" target="_blank">Cerulean Park</a>. Located right in the heart of WaterColor, this park is a beautiful spot for hiking, biking, jogging, or a family gathering. A beautiful fountain, tropical flowers, and monarch butterflies make this a great spot to spend a weekend.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Cerulean_Park.png" width="778" height="410" alt="Cerulean Park Fountain" title="Cerulean Park, WaterColor" />
Even talking about these great activities is just scratching the surface of everything WaterColor has to offer. Attend the yearly two-night outdoor film festival. Experience the finely curated offerings of the <a href="https://g.co/kgs/e2is3r" target="_blank" title="Harvest Wine & Food Festival">Harvest Wine & Food Festival</a>. Whatever types of activities you enjoy, you’ll never find yourself without something to do in WaterColor.
The 7th Annual Harvest Wine & Food Festival in WaterColor, FL is on Oct 19-13, 2023. <a href="https://www.dcwaf.org/harvest-festival/" target="_blank" title="Tickets On Sale in July">Tickets</a> will go on sale in July. Past events have sold out. You will want to be quick!
There’s Just Something About the South
WaterColor is a great place to vacation. Anyone would be thrilled to spend a week basking on the beautiful beaches here. The problem with vacations is that they end. Why only spend a week in such a beautiful place? How amazing would it be to wake up every single day in paradise?
Homes in WaterColor are based on the vernacular of Southern architecture with columns, porches, and metal rooves. The entire community oozes Southern charm, with everything from the downtown area to the homes designed to retain that charming small-town feel. Wraparound porches are perfect for BBQ, entertaining, or even just sitting and enjoying a sunset.
The community itself also has all the amenities you could ask for as a homeowner or guest. WaterColor Beach Club is a shared amenity and a great place to relax and enjoy views of the Gulf of Mexico. Several swimming pools provide a great place to exercise or just cool off in the summer. Tennis courts and fitness centers are available to help keep you in swimsuit shape. The WaterColor community strives to show off the beauty of the natural world, with parks, gardens, and long swaths of green lawn dotted throughout the area. WaterColor has even been recognized for its gorgeous design, receiving the Award for Excellence from the Urban Land Institute.
Shopping, Dining, and More
The Gulf of Mexico features some of the best seafood on the planet, and local restaurants are taking the ocean’s bounty and turning it into culinary masterpieces for local residents. There are countless great eats in the area, but it’s worth taking a look at a few of the standouts:
<a href="https://www.foow30a.com/" target="_blank">FOOW (Fish Out Of Water)</a><br /> This beautiful family-style restaurant and bar are located in the four-star WaterColor Inn. With a view overlooking the Gulf Coast, this is an excellent spot for a night out with the family or a romantic dinner for two. A menu showcasing the fresh seafood of the neighboring Gulf ranges from succulent shrimp to seared swordfish, and the cocktail menu is a cut above your standard fare.
<a href="https://thegreatsoutherncafe.com/" target="_blank">Great Southern Cafe</a><br /> James Beard recognized chef Jim Shirley heads this spot that aims to meld Southern cooking with the aquatic harvest of the Gulf. Cajun-leaning entrees make up the bulk of the menu, but lobster tails and amazing steaks are still great options for those who can’t handle the spice. An extensive wine list and a full bar ensure that mom and dad have everything they need for a perfect night out. Their Key Lime Pie may be the best in Florida.
<a href="https://www.beachcampbeer.com/main-grayton" title="Grayton Craft Beers" target="_blank">Beach Camp Brewpub</a><br /> Tap into a local's favorite at Beach Camp Brewpub, where over twenty handcrafted brews share menu space with burgers, upscale appetizers, and some inspired locally caught seafood entrees. Be sure to try a refreshing 30A Beach Blonde Ale. Be on the lookout as Alex Postelnek, lead brewer, serve up new local options.
There are also tons of great shops to visit in town.<br /><br />Try:
<a href="https://bluegiraffe30a.com/" target="_blank">The Blue Giraffe</a><br /> This amazing little spot is all about unique pieces. Handcrafted furniture, art, and jewelry fill the space, and it’s hard to leave without finding something that catches your eye.
<a href="https://www.oldfloridaoutfitters.com/" target="_blank">Old Florida Outfitters</a><br /> This local institution is popular with those who enjoy fishing. All sorts of outdoor gear are available here, with a particular emphasis on fly fishing gear. The Gulf and a few of the nearby lakes are great for fishing, so this spot is a great place to get started if you’re looking to take up a new hobby.
<a href="https://www.thewinebarfl.com/the-wine-bar-watercolor-on-30a">Wine World</a><br /> Sure, there are a ton of great dining options in WaterColor, but cooking at home and opening a great bottle of wine is nice too. For these nights, Wine World has got your back. A vast selection of wines ensures you’ll find whatever you’re looking for. There’s also a great wine bar and restaurant attached, so don’t think you have to cook at home to enjoy the spoils of a Wine World outing.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/WaterColor_Beach_1.jpg" width="778" height="410" alt="WaterColor Biking" title="WaterColor Natural Beauty" />
Live the Vacation
There are so many reasons why WaterColor is a great place to visit, but there are even more reasons why it’s a great place to live. There are WaterColor homes for sale, but current trends show us that this may not always be the case. <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/beach-homes/" title="Emerald Coast Beach Homes">Beach homes</a> in communities like WaterColor are becoming harder and harder to find for a number of reasons.
With so many companies shifting to work-from-home models, more people now have the freedom to move away from major cities and keep their same job. With the freedom to now work from anywhere, places that were once thought of as vacation destinations are now becoming popular places to live.
The urban communities along Scenic Highway <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/30a/" title="30A Homes For Sale">30A</a> have continually seen a year-over-year rise in tourism revenue. As the popularity of a travel destination like WaterColor increases, the amount of people who fall in love with the place and decide to move there also increases. This, in turn, leads to a limited supply of <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/watercolor/" target="_blank" title="WaterColor Homes For Sale">WaterColor homes for sale</a>.
WaterColor may not yet be known as the Maldives of the Southern Coast…but it should be. The homes and shops exude Southern charm. Tracts of soft white sand soak up the footprints of running children. Gourmet restaurants plate and pour offerings for even the most discerning palates. One look at this place, pretty as a painting, and it’s easy to see why they named it WaterColor.
WaterColor Homes for Sale
What is your favorite thing to do at WaterColor?
We would love to read your comments below!2022-05-10T14:14:00-07:002023-10-16T12:34:28-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:3551130A Florida Real Estate - Guest Post Guidelines<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Guest_Post_1.jpg" width="1200" height="629" alt="Emerald Coast Guest Post Guidelines" title="Emerald Coast Guest Post Guidelines" />
Are you interested in submitting a guest post to our real estate blog on 30A and Florida's Emerald Coast? Great! We welcome high-quality, informative content from guest writers who can provide valuable insights about the real estate market and lifestyle in the area.
To ensure that your guest post meets our guidelines, we have outlined some key requirements that you should keep in mind before submitting your content.
Content
Our blog focuses on real estate and lifestyle topics relevant to 30A and <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/#pageComponent70322" title="Emerald Coast Communites">Florida's Emerald Coast</a>, NW Florida's Panhandle. We welcome posts about local real estate market trends, buying and selling tips, neighborhood guides, local events, and restaurant recommendations. Please ensure that your post is relevant to our audience and fits within the scope of our blog.
Real Estate Trends
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We require guest posts to be at least 1,500 words in length. This ensures that our readers receive in-depth, comprehensive information about the topic at hand. However, please keep in mind that quality is more important than quantity. We prefer well-written content that delivers value to our readers.
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To make your article easy to read and scan, we require that you use subheadings and bullet points to break up your content. Use H2 and H3 tags for your subheadings, and make sure they are keyword-rich and relevant to your content.
We also recommend keeping your paragraphs short and concise and using font size and style that is easy to read. We encourage the use of high-quality images to accompany your article. Please ensure that any images used are free of copyright and have the appropriate attribution or permission for use.
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Before submitting your article, please confirm we approve your topic and all links. This will ensure that your content aligns with our guidelines and standards and that it will provide value to our readers. We want to make sure that our readers receive only the highest quality and most relevant content on our real estate blog.
Please first submit your proposal for approval to: <a href="mailto:guest_post@truesouthcoastalhomes.com">guestpost@truesouthcoastalhomes.com</a>
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We reserve the right to edit your guest post for clarity, grammar, spelling, and style. We may also make minor changes to the article to ensure that it meets our editorial guidelines. We will notify you if significant changes are required or if we decide not to publish your article.
Thank you for understanding and for your cooperation in making our blog a great resource for everyone interested in the lifestyle and real estate opportunities of Florida's Emerald Coast.
We hope these guidelines will help you write a great guest post that provides value to our readers and helps you showcase your expertise. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us. We look forward to working with you!2022-01-02T14:11:00-07:002023-04-04T07:56:21-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:14640A Local’s Guide to Crab Island<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/crab_island_guide_1.png" width="778" alt="A Local's Guide to Crab Island in Destin, FL" title="A Local's Guide to Crab Island" height="410" />
What is Crab Island?
You're likely familiar with the sugary white sands and deep teal-green salty waters of Destin, 30A, Seaside, and other charismatic beach towns dotting the Gulf of Mexico in the northwestern panhandle of Florida, but are you familiar with what locals and tourists call Crab Island? A tourist destination for families, friends, locals, and tourists alike – and a unique landmark that has garnered headlines that traveled to every corner of the globe – Crab Island is a man-made phenomenon that brings thousands of beach lovers together every season.
Just a couple miles and a short boat ride off the coast of the emerald waters of <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin/" title="Destin Homes For Sale" target="_blank">Destin</a>, Florida, Crab Island isn't exactly an actual island. Crab Island is a massive underwater sandbar – taking up nearly four acres in the crystal waters off the coast of Florida. It's large enough to offer hundreds of boats to anchor and the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun!
Once, it was an actual island, a result of the Army Corps of Engineers dredging sand from the <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/east-pass-towers/" title="East Pass Towers Condos for Sale">East Pass</a> in the early 1960s to control the flow of the waters in the Gulf of Mexico. Some say the island resembled a crab, but others recount memories of anchoring up and collecting crabs with their families for a crab boil. Due to Hurricane Eloise in the '70s and the passage of time, today, it is a one-of-a-kind destination near Destin to anchor a boat, float, and revel in the stunning turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
It's a perfect patch of paradise – and it's a short flight from many U.S. cities; it's located just a few minutes off the coast of the panhandle of Florida. Keep reading for details on Crab Island's location and how to get there quickly.
Where is Crab Island?
As you drive into Destin, Florida, Crab Island is hard to miss. The popular beach hangout spot is located on the <a target="_blank" title="Crab Island Map Location" href="https://goo.gl/maps/d5AKrAW5FA2AVWQr8">north side of the Destin Bridge</a> in Destin, Florida, in the Choctawhatchee Bay. You won't miss it for a few reasons: the spectacular view of the calm water, and on most sunny days, you'll see a colorful scene of dozens and dozens of boats floating peacefully and swimmers and paddlers enjoying the day at Crab Island.
Destin, Florida, in Okaloosa County, is a world-famous location on what's known as the Emerald Coast in northwestern Florida. This stretch of beaches along the Gulf of Mexico earned its name from the unique color of the saltwater – it's not a deep blue ocean but rather a striking combination of a rich blue and a deep green. Destin is home to stunning white beaches made all the more striking against the contrast of the emerald waters.
On most days, Crab Island is dotted with a wide array of boats, floating restaurants, the occasional floating stage for outdoor concerts, and other fun entertainment options – all in the middle of the Bay, with no bridges or roads around.
Crab Island is unique for many reasons, most spectacularly being that it's not considered part of the Gulf of Mexico, so the water is calm and crystal clear year-round, making it the perfect spot to anchor and float for a few hours. You get the relaxing feeling of being at the ocean, enjoying the sun and the saltwater, but without the choppy waves and unpredictable tides. It truly is the best of both worlds.
Crab Island is in the middle of the Bay – and is only accessible by boat. Read more about how to get to Crab Island below.
What's the best way to get to Crab Island?
The juice, as they say, is well worth the squeeze when it comes to traveling to Crab Island. You can't get there by plane, train, or automobile, but you can rent a boat or another water vehicle and easily and quickly arrive at Crab Island.
The trip will take roughly five minutes if you're leaving from Destin Harbor. You can rent a boat, bring your boat, or charter a boat excursion and have someone take you to Crab Island for a few hours at a time. Just remember, city ordinances now require boat excursion captains to stay with their passengers during their trips. This new ordinance helps to keep everyone who visits and enjoys Crab Island safe. Most excursion companies offer trips that last a few hours, anywhere from 2-4 hours a day.
Are you more of the do-it-yourself type of traveler? If so – and if you're looking for a more active roundtrip option to and from Crab Island – you could consider a more athletic mode of transportation like paddleboarding or kayaking. Once you arrive, you can rest and relax on your trip. While you can kayak or paddleboard out to the island, you cannot swim from shore.
Crab Island is incredibly popular – and for a good reason – with both tourists and locals alike. For that reason, companies now offer multi-person shuttles from Destin to Crab Island. These shuttles are often more affordable than renting a boat or chartering an excursion. Shuttles also provide guests with a safe ride to and from the island through the Bay. Schedules vary, and space can sometimes be limited during the busiest seasons, but this is an excellent option for guests who don't want to drive their boat to and from Crab Island.
If you're coming to northwestern Florida from out of state – or even out of the country – you can fly into the region's beautiful airport, <a title="Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS)" href="https://www.flyvps.com/" target="_blank">Northwest Florida Regional Airport</a> (VPS), and enjoy a few days in the northwestern Florida region before and after your trip to Crab Island. If you're traveling from inside the state of Florida, or the southeastern part of the United States, consider taking a scenic beach route into town to make the most of your trip to the region.
So, what can I do when I get to Crab Island?
Despite Crab Island being in the middle of the water, there's plenty to do! Of course, what you'll want to do first is relax! You've made it to some of the prettiest waters in the world. Put your feet up, soak it all in and make some great memories! If you're looking for a more relaxing trip with fewer people anchored in the waters, consider going during the weekday.
Crab Island is huge – and because it is such a large sandbar, it is home to very shallow water. This means you can anchor safely, get out, enjoy the water, weather, and atmosphere, and maybe even spot some marine life during your day on the island.
Enjoy time on your boat, spend some time relaxing and listening to music or reading a book, paddling in the water, playing volleyball, football, or other fun water or sand sports, watching for marine life, and maybe even making some new friends!
Once you've made it to Crab Island, you won't want to leave for a few hours! Planning and packing ahead are essential so you aren't missing any necessary supplies once you arrive at the island. Here are a few things to consider bringing for your trip:
Pack your cooler. Bring a few snacks, lunch, and plenty of drinks and water to tide you over as you spend the day in the crystal waters.
Bring some cash. You may be in the middle of the Bay, but there are still vendors on food boats and floating restaurants who sell small lunches, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks. When planning your trip, remember these floating experiences are only available during the high tourist season in northwestern Florida, roughly from March through October most years.
Plan to be in the sun. Bring sun protection, like plenty of sunscreen, a sunhat, and extra umbrellas. There's no shade in the middle of the water, so pack ahead and save yourself from a painful sunburn!
Make your memories – and save them, too. Consider picking up a waterproof camera you can use to capture memories of the incredible scenery.
What else is nearby Crab Island that I can explore?
Crab Island is just off the coast of the incredible beach resort town of Destin, Florida. Destin is known for its world-class amenities, resorts, restaurants, some of the region's most famous golf courses, and incredible deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you want to spend time on-shore or off-shore, Destin is a beautiful city to spend a few extra days before and after your visit to Crab Island.
Adventure is everywhere in Destin – from snorkeling in the emerald waters to cruising the waves in a rented jet ski – there is an exhilarating adventure for everyone. And, for those who prefer to stay on-shore, Destin has plenty of wonderfully unique shops, spas, and restaurants for you to enjoy. If you're a nature watcher, catch a dolphin boat tour, spend time at <a title="Henderson Beach State Park" href="https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/henderson-beach-state-park">Henderson Beach State Park</a>, just east of Destin's beaches, or pay a visit to the <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" title="Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park" href="https://www.gulfarium.com/">Florida Gulfarium</a> and learn more about the awesome marine life that calls the Emerald Coast home.
Make an entire day of traveling <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" title="30A Real Estate" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/30a/">30-A</a>, a stunningly beautiful 24-mile stretch of a beach road that connects the Destin area to the Panama City area of northwestern Florida. Enjoy the views along the scenic 30-A route east and visit a series of stunning beach towns that dot the coast, like <a title="Sandestin Real Estate for Sale" style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sandestin/">Sandestin</a>, <a title="Grayton Beach Real Estate" style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/grayton-beach/">Grayton Beach</a>,<a style="color: #5ea6b2;" title="WaterColor Florida Homes" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/watercolor/"> WaterColor</a>, <a title="Seaside Real Estate" style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/seaside/">Seaside</a>, <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" title="Watersound Real Estate" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/watersound/">WaterSound</a>, <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" title="Alys Beach Real Estate" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/alys-beach/">Alys Beach</a>, and <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" title="Rosemary Beach Real Estate" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/rosemary-beach/">Rosemary Beach</a>, each town equally as charming and beautiful as its neighbor.
Okay – I loved my trip and don't want to leave! Can I stay forever?
Once you visit, you likely won't want to leave. Make your temporary vacation state of mind permanent with a place of your own near desirable Crab Island in <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" title="Destin Real Estate for Sale" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin/">Destin, Florida</a>, or along the northwestern coast of Florida.
Living in Florida full-time may sound like an out-of-reach dream, but it's closer to reality than you might think. Considering our current environment, you may find this moment the best to make a move to Florida. If you're looking to move from a congested urban area, or if your regular 9-5 office job can now be done remotely, you could move to NW Florida within the next few months.
Find your own slice of paradise for a second home or a prime investment property here: <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" title="Condos Near Crab Island in Destin, FL" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin-condos/">Condos Near Crab Island</a>. If boating is your pastime, explore homes and and condos on nearby <a title="Holiday Isle Condos for Sale" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/holiday-isle-condos/">Holiday Isle</a>.
There are many benefits to living in a permanent vacation state of mind. Florida boasts year-round sunny weather, miles and miles of oceanfront property options, and too many attractions to count! Also, Florida is also an affordable state to live in and has no state income taxes or personal income taxes. In the state's northern panhandle, Destin is home to a healthy, robust, and diverse economy that thrives during both the on-season and off-season. Destin also offers plenty of big-city amenities while still retaining its small-town, Southern hospitality and charm.
Condos Near Crab Island
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Don't forget to <a title="Facebook - Kim Bauman, P.A., Realtor with Amerivest Realty" target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/truesouthcoastalhomes/">like us on Facebook</a>, and while you're there, subscribe to our True South Coastal Homes Newsletter, as we're excited to bring you information about the area we call home.
If you're considering making the Emerald Coast your home or buying a 30A vacation home, or investment property, we would love to assist you. Please <a title="Contact Us" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/contact/">send us a message</a> or visit our <a title="Emerald Coast Communities" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/">neighborhood pages</a> on <a title="Emerald Coast Real Estate" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/">TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com</a> to begin the search for your perfect property.
2020-08-29T08:26:00-07:002023-04-03T10:47:48-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:99444 {more} Emerald Coast Golf Courses We Love<img height="410" title="4 Emerald Coast Courses We Love" alt="4 Emerald Coast Courses We Love" width="778" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/4_More_1.jpg" />
In a <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/blog/4-great-golf-courses-you-should-visit-on-the-emerald-coast/" title="4 Great Golf Courses You Should Visit on the Emerald Coast">previous post</a>, we explored a few of the great greens on the Emerald Coast. Well, to put it simply, there were just too many to list!
We’d like to take this opportunity to introduce you to yet a few more golf courses and clubs in the Destin area that we’ve fallen in love with. With miles upon miles of green waters and white beaches to explore while you tee off, we think you’re going to fall in love, too.
Raven Golf Club at Sandestin – Miramar Beach
In our previous list of golf courses in the <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/miramar-beach/" title="Miramar Beach Real Estate for Sale">Miramar Beach area</a>, we mentioned the Baytowne Golf Club. Like Baytowne, the <a href="https://www.sandestinraven.com/" title="Raven Golf Course" target="_blank">Raven Golf Club</a> is a part of <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sandestin/" title="Sandestin Real Estate for Sale">Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort</a>, making it a great destination for the whole family. Whether you’re a golfer or a shopper, Sandestin offers entertainment for everyone; from evening entertainment to family-friendly watersports, everyone will enjoy their trip to the Emerald Coast.
The Raven Golf Club meanders through peaceful marshes and tall pines, and reviews of the course say it’s well maintained. The course has earned several acknowledgments including a four-time mention in Golfweek Magazine as one of the “Best Courses You Can Play.” GPS-enabled carts and excellent customer service will make the Raven Golf Club a place you’ll want to come back to.
If you, for any reason, feel the need to explore outside the 2,400-acre resort property, you’ll find plenty to do. Fishing piers, antique stores, and wonderful restaurants are all nearby to the Raven Golf Club.
Raven Golf Club
1199 Troon Dr. N, Miramar Beach, FL 32550
<a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Raven Golf Club at Sandestin" href="https://www.sandestinraven.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Raven Golf Reviews" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/2013-raven-at-sandestin-golf-and-beach-resort" target="_blank">Reviews</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Raven Golf Club Times" href="https://www.sandestinraven.com/teetimes/" target="_blank">Tee Times</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Directions to Raven Golf Club" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/1180+troon+dr+n+miramar+beach+fl+32550" target="_blank">Directions</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Burnt Pine Homes for Sale" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/burnt-pine/">Nearby Homes</a>
Regatta Bay – Destin
The next course we felt was too good to pass up is the <a href="https://regattabay.com/" title="Regatta Bay Golf Club" target="_blank">Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club</a> in <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin/" title="Destin Real Estate for Sale">Destin</a>. The greens are in great condition, and absolutely spotless. Pristine fairways and quite a few challenging water features make this a five-star course. We also love the added challenge of the strong ocean winds, making this a tough course for even experienced golfers.
Regatta Bay Golf and Yacht Club go above and beyond for its golf fans. You’ll find drinks carts making their rounds around the course as well as chilled apples and iced towels that smell like mangos. After you sink the 18th, head to the clubhouse to feel even more pampered. Choose a light sandwich or a steak cooked to perfection, paired with a wine or champagne from the Grill’s extensive list.
When it’s time to rest, you’ll find plenty of lodging options in the area. Select from privately owned inns, larger branded hotels or seek out a vacation rental home nearby. Either way, you’ll love your stay!
Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club
465 Regatta Bay Blvd, Destin, FL 32541
<a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Regatta Bay Golf & Yacht Club" href="https://regattabay.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Regatta Bay Golf Reviews" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/15384-regatta-bay-golf-yacht-club" target="_blank">Reviews</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Regatta Bay Golf Club Tee Times" href="https://regatta-bay-golf-and-country-club.play.teeitup.com/" target="_blank">Tee Times</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Directions to Regatta Bay Golf Club" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/https://www.google.com/maps/dir/30.3970904,-86.4248371/" target="_blank">Directions</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Regatta Bay Real Estate for Sale" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/regatta-bay/">Nearby Homes</a>
Kelly Plantation Golf Club – Destin
The <a href="http://www.kellyplantationgolf.com/" title="Kelly Plantation Golf Club" target="_blank">Kelly Plantation Golf Club</a> is a course with history. The 18 holes were designed to spread over what was once a turpentine farm, owned by Mattie and Coleman Kelly. Since that time, the land has been masterfully repurposed by Fred Couples and Gene Bates to create a course that’s been ranked #1 by GolfAdvisor.
So what’s to love about playing the Kelly Plantation course? A lot! The greens are fast and putt great and the course is leisurely. A course marshal is on-site but GPS is set for four and a half hours of gameplay: expect to spend the full afternoon. Overall, if you’re looking for a game of golf that’s both relaxing and challenging, Kelly Plantation is a sure bet.
When you’ve finished taking in the views of the Choctawhatchee Bay and the native magnolias, take in a meal at The Grille, or just sit back with a signature Bloody Mary. Then, take the family for a nearby game of laser tag, or wet a line at Henderson Beach State Park. As with every area of Destin, the whole family will want to stay!
Kelly Plantation Golf Club
307 Kelly Plantation Drive, Destin, FL 32541
<a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Kelly Plantation Golf Club" href="https://www.kellyplantationgolf.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Kelly Plantation Golf Reviews" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/15419-kelly-plantation" target="_blank">Reviews</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Kelly Plantation Golf Club Tee Times" href="https://www.kellyplantationgolf.com/book-a-tee-time" target="_blank">Tee Times</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Directions to Kelly Plantation Golf Club" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/307+kelly+plantation+dr+destin+fl+32550" target="_blank">Directions</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Kelly Plantation Homes for Sale" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/kelly-plantation/">Nearby Homes</a>
Bluewater Bay Resort – Niceville
Last on the list, but certainly not least, is the <a href="https://www.bwbresort.com/">Bluewater Bay Resort</a> in <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/niceville/">Niceville</a>. This 27-hole course is divided into three individual sets: The Bay Course, The Marsh Course, and the Lake Course. We happen to be fond of the Bay Course, but there’s something to love about each.
The Bay Course offers well-maintained tee blocks as well as a brilliant view of the water. A strong breeze from the bay means a comfortable game, no matter the weather. The Lake Course is stunning as well, and it’s casual as well as challenging. The Marsh Course offers tricky bunkers and calm marsh views.
We love how well the Bluewater Bay Resort represents the unique landscape of the Emerald Coast. But be sure you check out the cultural landscape of the area when you visit, too. You and your family will love local opportunities for sailing, brewery tours, fishing charters and so much more!
Bluewater Bay Golf Club
2000 Bluewater Blvd, Niceville, FL 32578
<a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Bluewater Bay Golf Club" href="https://www.bwbresort.com/" target="_blank">Website</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Bluewater Bay Golf Reviews" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/15421-bluewater-bay-resort-bay-course" target="_blank">Reviews</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Bluewater Bay Golf Club Tee Times" href="https://www.bwbresort.com/teetimes/" target="_blank">Tee Times</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Directions to Bluewater Bay Golf Club" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/2000+bluewater+blvd+niceville+fl+32550" target="_blank">Directions</a> <a class="si-btn si-btn--secondary" title="Bluewater Bay Homes for Sale" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/bluewater-bay/">Nearby Homes</a>
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2020-01-21T08:09:00-07:002023-04-03T10:53:17-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:804010 Facts Every Florida Homebuyer Needs to Know About Flood Insurance <article>
<img title="10 Facts Every Florida Homebuyer Needs to Know About Flood Insurance" alt="10 Facts Every Florida Homebuyer Needs to Know About Flood Insurance" height="410" width="779" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/10_Facts_About_Flood_Insurance.jpg" />
Many people dream of living in a beach home along Florida’s Emerald Coast. If you are thinking about buying a home in <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin/">Destin</a> or other <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/">coastal communities</a>, you’ll want to educate yourself about flood insurance.
Here are 10 facts about flood insurance you need to know before you buy a home in Florida.
#1 You Can Buy Flood Insurance from the Government
The <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program">National Flood Insurance Program</a> (NFIP) was created under the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. The program, managed by FEMA, does three things:
Offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and businesses.
Improves floodplain management.
Develops maps of flood hazard zones.
For many years, floods were considered an uninsurable risk. Yet, 90% of natural disasters result in flood damage. In the past five years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. The need for flood insurance is great, but only 15% of homeowners hold policies.
Note that NFIP charges a premium for rental homes and vacation homes. A vacation home is one that is vacant 50% of the year. Landlords should encourage their tenants to buy rental insurance, including a flood insurance policy to cover their personal items.
#2 You Don’t Need to be In a Flood Zone
If you live in Florida, you need flood insurance. Not living in a high-risk flood zone just means you are at a lower risk of experiencing flood damage. Over 20% of NFIP claims are from homeowners who do not live in a high-risk flood zone. They also receive one-third of the federal disaster dollars paid out for flood damage.
Residents of low-risk flood areas in Texas, another flood-prone state, experienced what was called an “800-year flood.” The <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.dallasnews.com/news/photos/2017/08/27/photos-biblical-flooding-innundates-southeast-texas">Harvey hurricane of 2017</a> caught many homeowners by surprise – and without flood insurance.
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-flood-insurance">Florida has the highest storm surge risk</a> — by far. In 2018, the number of homes at “extreme” or “very high” risk was 1,415,767. To put this in perspective, Louisiana is number two on the list, with 279,698 homes in those risk categories. Florida has about five times more homes at risk of experiencing a storm surge.
#3 You Can Buy Private Flood Insurance for a Coastal Home
Most people buy their flood insurance through NFIP. However, private flood insurance is available. One reason to consider a policy from a private insurance company for your coastal home is that they tend to offer higher coverage limits. The NFIP caps coverage at $250,000 for the structure and $100,000 for personal contents.
Some mortgage lenders require that you buy your insurance through NFIP. That includes FHA and VA loans. If you need higher limits, talk to your insurance agent about purchasing extended coverage through a private insurer.
Florida has the highest number of flood insurance policies in-force. Although only 8% of those policies were written by private insurance companies in 2017, that segment of the industry is growing.
#4 Not Every Community Participates in the NFIP
You can only buy an NFIP policy if your community participates in the program. In order to qualify, a community must apply to the program, adopt a resolution of intent to cooperate with FEMA, and submit a floodplain management ordinance that meets NFIP criteria.
<a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.fema.gov/cis/FL.pdf">See if the beach home you are looking to buy is located in a community that offers NFIP.</a>
#5 Some Flood Zones Don’t Qualify
The <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coastal_Barrier_Resources_Act">Coastal Barrier Resources Act</a> of 1982 – referred to as “COBRA” -- allowed the Federal government to not offer flood insurance coverage in designated coastal barriers. Communities who participate in NFIP may have COBRA areas. Although you may be able to get private flood insurance, the cost could be prohibitive. If you decide to buy a beach home in a COBRA area, you may need to self-insure.
The Union of Concerned Scientists issued a report in 2018 that estimated 100,000 coastal homes across the United States are at very high risk of flood damage. This is due to the rising sea levels. The market value of these properties in 2018 was over $52 billion. The <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-states-climate-change-flooding-risk-2018-7">report</a> estimated that Florida coastal homes will rack up nearly $8 billion in property damage by 2030.
It is possible that your home is incorrectly categorized on the flood map. In that case, you can request a <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.fema.gov/letter-map-amendment-loma">Letter of Map Amendment</a> (LOMA) from FEMA. This official letter from FEMA takes about 60 days after you request it.
<a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1490118979672-c9c3172e0cd7437cb033da371cf1751e/LOMA-LOMRF_Fact_Sheet.pdf">How to request a LOMA.</a>
#6 Your Flood May Not Be Legal
You’re standing in two feet of water in your living room. Obviously, your home is flooded. But does it meet the legal definition of a flood? Seriously, this is a thing. What qualifies as a flood? Let’s quote <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program/definitions#F">FEMA’s definition</a>:
“A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of 2 or more acres of normally dry land area or of 2 or more properties (at least 1 of which is the policyholder's property) from:
--Overflow of inland or tidal waters; or
--Unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source; or
--Mudflow; or
Collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels...”
In other words, your surrounding land is normally dry and a natural disaster caused flooding in your home and at least one other neighbor’s home.
The next logical question is, “Will my homeowners policy cover this damage?”
#7 Homeowners Policies Don’t Cover Flood Damage
Let’s go back to your living room where you are standing in two feet of water. If that water damage was caused by a sudden and accidental event – such as a water heater bursting – you may be covered. The insurance company will pay for the damage done, but not the source of the damage. You will probably be responsible for replacing the water heater. Your homeowners policy will cover replacing the damaged floors.
Another event not covered by the standard homeowners policy is water backing up from an outside sewer or drain. This seems like one of those far-fetched events, doesn’t it? One landlord reported a case where their tenants were using baby wipes in place of toilet paper. Four family members flushing baby wipes down the toilet for two years. This eventually caused the main sewer line to the house to break and flood the home. It may be possible to buy extended coverage specifically for this type of water event.
Water damage caused by poor maintenance is not covered. Consider having a plumber inspect your home annually for water leaks. If you are aware of leaks, take care of them right away. Over time, that annoying “drip, drip” sound could add up to big dollar damage.
Damage from a flood (as defined by FEMA) is never covered by your homeowners policy.
#8 Flood Insurance Doesn’t Cover All Water Damage
You need separate flood insurance because your homeowners policy will not cover all water events. But flood insurance doesn’t cover all water damage either. Personal property in a basement, for example, is not covered. (Although most Florida homes don’t have basements.) Your personal property is covered on a cash-value basis. If your commercial-quality stove is damaged beyond repair, you will receive what FEMA says it’s currently worth – not what it costs to replace it. Before you put in a claim, it may be prudent to consult with a lawyer who specializes in insurance claims.
In any case, you’ll want to talk with your insurance agent about areas of the home and items that may not be covered.
#9 You May Need an Elevation Certificate to Get A Quote
Coastal homes in high risk flood zones will need an <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.cityofdestin.com/465/Elevation-Certificates">Elevation Certificate</a> (EC) in order to get an accurate quote for flood insurance. NFIP will require the EC. Some private insurers request it, too. Florida homes in low- and moderate-risk flood zones do not typically need an EC.
The key feature of your home the EC documents is the elevation of the lowermost floor in the home. This is compared to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). The BFE is the elevation that floodwaters have a 1% chance of reaching or exceeding. Generally, risk is associated with this elevation. The higher your lowermost floor is above the BFE, the lower the risk – and the more likely your insurance premium will be lower.
#10 You can Lower Your Flood Insurance Premium
Florida’s average flood insurance premium is $550. This is 21% lower than the national average. But buying flood insurance for a coastal home is more expensive. This is where the home’s elevation above the BFE really matters. A home at the same level as the BFE could be over $10,000. There are two ways you can lower the flood insurance premium on your beach home: 1. Select a higher deductible and 2. Flood proof your home. There are several ways to flood proof your home. <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.valuepenguin.com/">ValuePenquin</a> advises to:
• Raise your home on stilts or piers.
• Install foundation vents or a sump pump.
• Apply coatings and sealants.
• Raise your electrical outlets and switches.
• Install check valves on your pipes.
• Grade your lawn away from the house.
• Make space between your mulch and siding.
• Point your downspouts away from your home.
You may not need to implement every solution. Raising an existing home on stilts is likely cost-prohibitive. (But this should definitely be considered when building a home in a high-risk flood zone.) That’s where evaluating your risk of flood comes into play. <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.valuepenguin.com/homeowners-insurance/how-to-prevent-home-flooding">Learn more about flood risk evaluation and flood proofing</a>.
If you’re looking to buy a home in the city of Destin, your flood insurance premium will be lower. Destin has maintained a <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.cityofdestin.com/245/Flood-Information">Community Rating Systems</a> (CRS) Class 6 rating. This puts Destin in the top 15% of communities nationwide. The rating is FEMA’s assessment of the city’s effort to implement flood prevention measures. Policyholders in the special flood hazard area (zones A and V) have received a 20% premium discount since 2010. <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="http://www.cityofdestin.com/DocumentCenter/View/722/Flood-Zones?bidId=">View the City of Destin’s flood map.</a>
No matter where in Florida you decide to buy your home, the community’s outreach program or floodplain manager can help you understand your flood risk and what you can do to lower that risk.
Don’t Be Afraid to Buy a Beach Home
Our goal is to educate homebuyers on the importance of buying flood insurance – especially those who want to live on the Emerald Coast. The purpose of insurance is peace-of-mind. Don’t be afraid to buy a beach home. Just make sure you’re covered. Talk with a reputable insurance agent (we can help you find a great one) to ensure you are buying the right policies to protect your beautiful coastal home. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.
Resources:
FEMA - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program">National Insurance Program</a>
FEMA - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.floodsmart.gov/">National Insurance Program</a>
Consumer Reports - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.consumerreports.org/flood-insurance/what-flood-insurance-does-and-does-not-cover/">What Flood Insurance Does and Does Not Cover</a>
K.C. Williams - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.insuranceclaimlawyerblog.com/what-does-flood-insurance-cover-perhaps-not-much/">What Does Flood Insurance Cover? Perhaps Not Much!</a>
Business Insider - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-states-climate-change-flooding-risk-2018-7">Flood-prone US States Have Billions of Dollars of Property at Stake in the Next 15 years</a>
Allstate - <a target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.allstate.com/tr/home-insurance/water-damage.aspx">Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?</a>
Miami Herald - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.miamiherald.com/news/state/florida/article215162440.html">Your Flood Insurance Premium Is Going Up Again</a>
National Association of Insurance Commissioners - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.naic.org/cipr_topics/topic_nfip.htm">National Flood Program</a>
ValuePenguin - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.valuepenguin.com/homeowners-insurance/how-to-prevent-home-flooding">How to Prevent Your House from Flooding</a>
City of Destin - <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank" href="https://www.cityofdestin.com/245/Flood-Information">Flood Insurance</a>
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<a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/agents/kimbauman/">Kim Bauman, P.A</a> is a professional REALTOR® with Amerivest Realty and can help address your real estate concerns and refer you to a reputable insurance agent to serve you. She is an expert in coastal properties from Destin and Niceville to 30A and Inlet Beach in Florida. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us with any questions at <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="tel:4043954381">404-395-4381</a>.
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2019-08-01T14:24:00-07:002023-04-03T10:43:28-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:85374 Great Golf Courses You Should Visit on the Emerald Coast<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/4_Golf_Courses_You_Should_Visit_1.png" width="788" alt="4 Great Emerald Coast Golf Courses" title="4 Great Emerald Coast Golf Courses" height="410" />
When you envision the Emerald Coast, you likely picture green seas and white sands; you'd be correct: the Emerald Coast boasts some of the most beautiful Gulf waters in the nation. Crystal clear waters, coupled with the tall pines and native oaks, the Emerald Coast of Florida truly lives up to its name.
However, the beaches aren't the only green you'll find along the Coast. Golf lovers worldwide come to the Emerald Coast to take advantage of pristine, challenging courses. Choosing a favorite is difficult, but here are four golf courses you should visit on the Emerald Coast!
If Golf is your passion, be sure to review our list of <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/golf-course-homes/" title="Golf Course Homes For Sale">communities with golf</a> course amenities in the Emerald Coast.
Emerald Bay Golf Course – Destin, FL
When you visit Destin, be sure to visit the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.emeraldbaygolfclub.com/" title="Emerald Bay Golf Club">Emerald Bay Golf Club</a>, recently voted the Best Golf Course in Destin by readers of VIP Destin Magazine. Nestled along the shore of the Choctawhatchee Bay, the Emerald Bay Golf Club boasts 18 holes with water features and views of the bay within a private gated community, <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/emerald-bay/" title="Emerald Bay Homes for Sale">Emerald Bay</a>.
After you finish the course, head to one of the nearby restaurants for a taste of the local cuisine and choose between Southern seafood, <a target="_blank" href="https://yugasushihouse.com/" title="Yuga Sushi and Sake House">sushi</a>, and steak. Of course, in true Emerald Coast style, you can get biscuits or pancakes any time of day at <a href="https://donutholedestin.com/" title="The Donut Hole" target="_blank">The Donut Hole</a>.
Traveling with someone who doesn't share your love for the game? Destin is convenient for shopping, beaches, and entertainment venues. If you're considering moving to Destin, you'll be pleased to know that homeowners in Emerald Bay can access two Rubico tennis courts and the community swimming pool.
Emerald Bay Golf Club
4781 Clubhouse Dr
Destin, FL
<a href="tel:8508375197" title="Emerald Bay Golf Club Phone">(850) 837-5197</a>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.emeraldbaygolfclub.com/" title="Emerald Bay Golf Club Website" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Website</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/2014-emerald-bay-golf-club" title="Emerald Bay Golf Club Reviews" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Reviews</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.emeraldbaygolfclub.com/book-tee-times" title="Emerald Bay Golf Club Tee Times" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Tee Times</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/30.3833088,-86.5042432/emerald+bay+golf+club/" title="Emerald Bay Golf Club Directions" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Directions</a> <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/emerald-bay/" title="Homes in Emerald Bay" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Nearby Homes</a>
Baytowne Golf Club – Miramar Beach, FL
A second golfer's paradise we love is the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.baytownegolf.com/" title="Baytowne Golf">Baytowne Golf Club</a>. Baytowne Golf Club is part of the <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sandestin/" title="Sandestin Real Estate">Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort</a>, a popular destination for honeymooners, families, and sports enthusiasts. The course offers breathtaking views of both the beach and the bay and has twice been named one of the "Best Places to Play" by Golf Digest.
Beginners and experts alike will enjoy multiple teeing locations ranging from "easy" to challenging. The Baytowne Golf Club welcomes players to warm up in the practice facility before your round. Clubs are available to rent by the day.
The whole family will love the course and resort, with its tennis courts, spa, marina, and trails. Adults will love the fine dining options in the <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/miramar-beach/" title="Miramar Beach Real Estate">Miramar Beach area</a>, while families will love the child-friendly options like Applebee's and Ben & Jerry's.
Baytowne Golf Club at Sandestin
1146 Troon Dr
Miramar Beach, FL
<a href="tel:8502678155" title="Baytowne Golf Club Phone">(850) 267-8155</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.baytownegolf.com/" title="Baytowne Golf Club Website" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Website</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/2012-baytowne-at-sandestin-golf-and-beach-resort" title="Baytowne Golf Reviews" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Reviews</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.baytownegolf.com/teetimes/" title="Baytowne Golf Tee Times" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Tee Times</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/30.3833088,-86.5042432/baytowne+golf+club+at+sandestin/" title="Baytowne Golf Club Directions" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Directions</a> <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sandestin/" title="Homes in Sandestin" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Nearby Homes</a>
Rocky Bayou Country Club – Niceville, FL
Located 20 minutes from Destin is the town of Niceville, known for its music festivals and mild southern winds. Of course, we'd be remiss, not to mention the world-class golf at the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.rockybayoucc.com/" title="Rocky Bayou Country Club">Rocky Bayou Country Club</a>.
This course is spread over 115 acres of wooded property, featuring five spring-fed lakes and pristine greens. The Rocky Bayou Country Club frequently hosts tournaments and celebration dinners and welcomes Junior Members.
When you <a target="_blank" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/niceville/" title="Niceville Homes for Sale">move to Niceville</a>, you'll appreciate the area's small-town feel. However, the town is not without attractions. Visit <a target="_blank" href="https://cityofniceville.org/271/Turkey-Creek-Park" title="Turkey Creek Park">Turkey Creek Park</a> for a Sunday afternoon hike. Children can play at the splash pad at the Children's Park. And history buffs will enjoy the many museums, including the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.afarmamentmuseum.com/" title="Air Force Armament Museum">Air Force Armament Museum</a>.
Rocky Bayou Country Club
600 Golf Course Dr
Niceville, FL
<a href="tel:8506783270" title="Rocky Bayou Country Club Phone">(850) 678-3270</a>
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.rockybayoucc.com/" title="Rocky Bayou Country Club Website" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Website</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/21634-rocky-bayou-country-club" title="Rocky Bayou Country Club Reviews" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Reviews</a> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.rockybayoucc.com/golf/book-tee-time/" title="Rocky Bayou Country Club Tee Times" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Tee Times</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/30.3833088,-86.5042432/rocky+bayou+country+club/" title="Rocky Bayou Country Club Directions" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Directions</a> <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/rocky-bayou/" title="Homes in Rocky Bayou" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Nearby Homes</a>
Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club – Santa Rosa Beach, FL
The final golf destination on our list is the <a target="_blank" href="https://santarosaclub.com/" title="Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club">Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club</a>. The Santa Rosa, Golf and Beach Club is member-owned, featuring a gorgeous course on rolling hills and a members-only private pool and beach access.
Membership to the club is not a requirement for gameplay, so if you're visiting the 30A area, be sure to <a target="_blank" title="Santa Rosa Beach Tee Times" href="https://members.santarosaclub.com/tee-times">schedule a tee time</a>. You'll love playing within just a few hundred yards of the Gulf, and the challenging dunes and natural elevation changes make this a course you'll want to return to again and again.
Should you decide to relocate or buy a beach home <a target="_blank" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/santa-rosa-beach/" title="Santa Rosa Beach Homes for Sale">in Santa Rosa Beach, FL</a>, you'll learn that living here is an authentic beach town experience. From surf classes and fishing charters to <a target="_blank" href="https://umafl.org/" title="Underwater Museum of Art">The Underwater Museum of Art</a>, Santa Rosa Beach offers something for every family member, regardless of age or interest.
Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club
334 Golf Club Dr
Santa Rosa Beach, FL
<a href="tel:8502672229" title="Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club Phone">(850) 267-2229</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://santarosaclub.com/" title="Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club Website" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Website</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.golfadvisor.com/courses/2487-santa-rosa-golf-beach-club" title="Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club Reviews" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Reviews</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://members.santarosaclub.com/tee-times" title="Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club Tee Times" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Tee Times</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/30.3833088,-86.5042432/santa+rosa+golf+%26+beach+club/" title="Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club Directions" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Directions</a> <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/santa-rosa-beach/" title="Homes in Santa Rosa Beach" style="margin-bottom: 5px; background-color: #a2b1b5; border: 0;" class="si-btn si-btn--secondary">Nearby Homes</a>
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We've chosen to feature only four golf courses to feature in this article but come to the Emerald Coast, and you'll soon discover that it's a golfer's dream come true. Scenic courses offering astonishing views and challenging gameplay will be yours to enjoy year-round. If golf and coastal living are your heart's desires, check out our <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/golf-course-homes/" title="Golf Course Living Lifestyle">Golf Course Living</a> page.
Be sure to follow our blog for more information on area golf and courses, events, and information about the Emerald Coast. If you have any questions about moving to the Emerald Coast, we can help. <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/contact/" title="Contact Us">Send us a message online</a> or visit the <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/" title="Emerald Coast Communities">neighborhood pages</a> on TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com to learn more about living in this fantastic area.
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2019-04-23T10:25:00-07:002023-04-08T09:53:28-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:84165 Reasons to Visit the Emerald Coast This Spring<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/5_Reason_to_Visit_the_Emerald_Coast_This_Spring-1.png" width="788" height="410" alt="5 Reasons to Visit the Emerald Coast" title="5 Reasons to Visit the Emerald Coast" />
The Emerald Coast in Florida's panhandle is a fantastic region that's full of natural beauty and wonderful people. It's the kind of place that once you visit, you never want to leave. That's why at TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com, we always encourage people to take a trip to the Emerald Coast to see what these communities have to offer. The warmer weather makes Spring a great time to visit the Emerald Coast. Here are four reasons to visit the Emerald Coast this spring, and do a little house hunting while you're here.
Destin Cobia World Championships
March 29, 2019 – May 6, 2019 | Destin, FL
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Destin is known as “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,</a>” and there are multiple tournaments throughout the year where anglers can test their luck with a rod and reel. Spring brings the annual <a href="https://www.harbordocks.com/cobia-tournaments/" style="color: #5ea6b2;" target="_blank">Destin Cobia World Championships</a> which is a month-long event that attracts hundreds of fishermen to the Harborwalk Village Marina.
The contest is more than two decades old and is filled with history, tall tales, and legendary catches. The tournament begins at the around the end of March, with the first Cobia caught, and weighed-in by a boat officially entered in the competition. It ends in late April or early May, which is when the crowds gather at the docks to find out who the winner is. Even if you can't participate, it's fun to watch the action, and there's always a carnival atmosphere on the last day of the championship. You can take a look at the <a href="http://cobiaworldchampionships.com/photo-gallery/">gallery on the event website</a> to see some images from the tournament’s long history. Even if you're not into fishing, there are weekly fireworks shows from Destin Harbor during the spring, so something fun is always happening.
Annual Sandestin Wine Festival
April 11 - 14, 2019 | Miramar Beach, FL
If you need an excuse to take a trip to Destin, the <a href="http://www.sandestinwinefestival.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">33rd Annual Sandestin Wine Festival</a> is coming up in mid-April. From April 11th through the 14th in <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sandestin/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort</a>. You can join in the fun at what has been called the "Best Annual Event" by Destin Magazine. Whether you wine newbie or an amateur aficionado, the festival has something for everyone. There will be an official kick-off party, wine tasting events, seminars, a lunch cruise, and more. You can find many hard-to-find wines from a vast selection of types and price ranges. And if you want to stock up on your favorites, you can get discounts from ABC Fine Wine and Spirits Retail Tent. Visit the organizer's website to <a href="https://sd.bigtickets.com/event/listEvents.cfm" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">order tickets for the individual events of the festival</a>.
Burning up the Beaches
May 2 - 4, 2019 | Miramar Beach, FL
If you’re an automobile enthusiast, <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/miramar-beach/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">head to Miramar Beach, FL</a> during the first weekend in May. From May 2nd to the 4th, the Destin Commons shopping mall will host the <a href="http://burningupthebeaches.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Burning Up the Beaches</a> event. Besides being an amazing classic car show, the exhibition shows the strength of the community in the Emerald Coast. The Burning Up the Beaches show also serves as a charity ride to local institutions. The proceeds go to The Arc of the Emerald Coast which helps those with developmental disabilities.
Digital Graffiti
May 17 - 19, 2019 | Alys Beach, FL
During May, Alys Beach becomes a bit more colorful during the <a href="https://www.digitalgraffiti.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Digital Graffiti exhibition</a>. On May 17th and 18th, artists will project animations and designs onto the iconic white walls of the buildings in <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/alys-beach/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Alys Beach, FL</a>. The artists are the finalists for a contest, and the winners will be announced at the exhibition. The event features a street party atmosphere with local vendors, food trucks, and more. It's a fun experience for the whole family. You can see some of the works that were shown during <a href="https://www.digitalgraffiti.com/gallery/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Digital Graffiti’s 12-year history in the online gallery</a>. There are a limited number of tickets to the event. If you want to be a part of the fun, you may want to get your ticket now.
Stories By the Sea and Beauty and the Beast
May 23 - Aug 8 and June 1 - July 31, 2019 | Seaside, FL
The Emerald Coast is a great place to raise a family, and you can see that in some of the fun, and often free, events for families with children. During the Spring, there is an event, Stories by the Sea, that's produced by <a href="http://lovetherep.com/calendar/" title="The REP Calendar">The REP,</a> a local theater company. A local theatre group presents a fun, storytelling experience at the Seaside Amphitheater every Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. It's a great way to <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/seaside/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">get to know Seaside, FL</a> and to squeeze every ounce of fun out of a family trip to the beach. If you wanted something to do with your children <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/rosemary-beach/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">while visiting Rosemary Beach</a>, the same theatre group is putting on weekly performances of <a href="http://lovetherep.com/beauty-the-beast/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Beauty and the Beast</a> every Wednesday night until Aug. 8th. This performance is another free event sponsored by local merchants, so head to North Barrett Square in Rosemary Beach and enjoy the show. You can't find a better place than the Emerald Coast to raise a family.
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The <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Emerald Coast</a> is an excellent place to live. Our coastal communities may be quiet and small, but they are never dull. There is a thriving community here where, and no matter your age, there's always something fun to do. Like we said before, once you visit the Emerald Coast, you won't want to leave. Once you're ready to settle down in the Emerald Coast, <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">talk to us at TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com</a>, and we can help make it happen. Kim is a licensed Florida REALTOR® with Amerivest Realty and specializes in coastal communities on Florida's Emerald Coast from Destin and Niceville to 30A and Inlet Beach.
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2019-03-27T19:35:00-07:002020-02-08T06:00:45-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:83465 Surprising Things About Emerald Coast Communities You Didn’t Know<img title="5 Surprising Things About Emerald Coast Communities" alt="5 Surprising Things with Alys Beach Image" height="410" width="778" src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/5_Surprising_Things.png" />
Florida is a great state with many attractive features. From the Florida Panhandle to the Florida Keys, it is filled with stunning natural wonders, fascinating history, local legends and more. With so much attention on larger cities like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami, many of the smaller parts of Florida don't get the attention they deserve. Once known as the Miracle Strip, the Emerald Coast is one such underappreciated areas. We're here to change that. The Emerald Coast is a stretch of coastline in northwest Florida along the Gulf of Mexico. Here are five surprising things about <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Emerald Coast communities</a> you may not have known.
1. Niceville is Florida’s Best Kept Secret
The <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/niceville/">city of Niceville</a> is so unassuming that even lifelong Floridians haven't heard of it. According to many sources, Niceville is one of the best-kept secrets in the state. It's not just the low cost of living (96 percent on the Living Index) or the fantastic weather. Niceville has received <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://cityofniceville.org/284/All-About-Niceville">multiple accolades</a> for being awesome. The city of around 115,000 people was declared the<a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.smarttravel.tips/10-best-places-live-florida/"> "Best Place to Live in Florida"</a> by SmartTravel.tips and the <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/photo-essays/2011-11-23/the-best-places-to-raise-your-kids-2012">"Best Place to Raise Kids in Florida"</a> by Bloomberg Businessweek. It's also noted for being extremely safe. The website niche.com named it <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/safest-places/s/florida/">"One of Florida's Safest Places to Raise a Family,"</a> Movoto.com listed it as <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.movoto.com/blog/top-ten/safest-places-in-florida/">"One of the Safest Places in Florida"</a> and the National Council for Home Safety has Niceville as "One of the 100 Safest Cities in Florida".
2. The Source of Emerald Coast Sand
The beautiful beaches are one of the many reasons that people seek to buy a home or property on the Emerald Coast. The beaches on the Emerald Coast have distinct sand that is a bright white color. This sand creates beautiful "snow white" beaches that are unique to this area of Florida and rare around the world. The cause of this coastline coloration is quartz crystal. Quartz crystals in the Appalachian Mountains are eroded by flows of water, which reach the Apalachicola River and are eventually deposited throughout the Emerald Coast.
3. Destin Florida Used to Be an Island
The stunning landscapes of the Emerald Coast can give the impression of unchanging, natural beauty, but looks can be deceiving. Residents of the Emerald Coast <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin/">city of Destin</a> probably wouldn't recognize the area on a map in the not so distant past. Destin, FL, which is located on the peninsula in between the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, was once a barrier island. The island became a peninsula as hurricanes changed the landscape over time.
4. Why the Water is so Beautiful on the Emerald Coast
The sand is only one part of the equation for why beaches in Northwest Florida are so famous. The waters of the Emerald Coast have a beautiful jewel-toned hue that gave the region its name. Like the sand, the extraordinary beauty of the Emerald Coast beaches is due to natural processes. Sediment from the Mississippi River creates a delta at the mouth of the Gulf of Mexico. This region of residue acts as a filter for the muddy waters coming from the Mississippi River. The sediment tapers off the farther away from the mouth of the Mississippi you go, and the water that remains is crystal clear. The emerald color is the result of light refraction on the large body of clear water. Whatever the cause, the waters of the Emerald Coast are an ever-present reminder of the beauty of nature.
5. You Can Eat Plants in Alys Beach
Naturally, you can’t eat every plant you see <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/alys-beach/">in Alys Beach</a>. However, the city has put a lot of effort into creating <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://30a.com/things-you-didnt-know-about-alys-beach/">several sections of Alys Beach</a> where there are edible plants that residents can pick and use in their kitchens. For example, you can find mints and lemons alongside a section of the pedestrian path that is appropriately known as Mojito Alley. In a similar vein, The Daiquiri Garden has strawberries and bananas. And to prove it’s not all about cocktails, The Soup Garden has Thyme, Chives, Basil and Oregano. There are even four different species of blueberries growing along Lake Marilyn! It’s a <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="http://www.alysbeach.com/our-town/interiors-landscape/#.XIbi9ChKjIU">colorful and delicious way</a> to make Alys Beach a great place to live.
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If you’re looking for a home on the Emerald Coast, <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/">TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com</a> can help. You can use the search tool on our website to find homes that meet your needs. <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/contact/">Send us a message online</a> if you have any questions about moving to one of the <a style="color: #5ea6b2;" href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/">many communities on the Emerald Coast</a>. Kim is a licensed Florida REALTOR® with Amerivest Realty and specializes in coastal communities on Florida's Emerald Coast from Destin and Niceville to 30A and Inlet Beach.
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2019-03-13T17:31:00-07:002019-04-29T14:22:02-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:81794 Benefits to Buying a Home on the Emerald Coast
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Buying_a_Home_on_the_Emerald_Coast.jpg" width="779" height="410" alt="Buying a Home on the Emerald Coast" title="4 Benefits to Buying a Home on the Emerald Coast" />
From coast to coast, America is a beautiful country. With so many amazing places to choose from, it can be difficult to determine the right place when deciding where to move. The coasts of America remain some of the most highly desired properties available and with good reason. Besides being a status symbol, there are assets to living in areas like the Emerald Coast, Northwest Florida's panhandle, that you can’t get in other places. Here are four benefits to <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/buyers/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">buying a house on the coast</a>.
Beautiful Views and Better Communities
A key benefit of coastal living is fantastic views of the ocean and seaside nature. A home with a view of the water is guaranteed to have beautiful sunrises and sunsets. The waterways of the coast make beautiful scenery, but don't forget about coastal habitats on land that can't be seen anywhere else. On the Emerald Coast, we have white sands, emerald waters, <a href="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/florida/rare-natural-wonder-fl-experience/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">coastal dune lakes</a>, and even <a href="https://floridascenichighways.com/our-byways/panhandle-region/scenic-highway-30a/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Scenic Highway 30A</a>. When you factor in the temperate climate of most coastal communities, you can see why the scenery and the ambiance are key reasons for buying a home on the coast. Additionally, many coastal communities are smaller than the cities that surround them. This means when you buy a house on the coast, you have access to nearby large markets while living in a peaceful and quiet community.
Seaside Living Can Improve Your Physical Health
Coastal communities are also an excellent place to move if you want an environment that can improve your physical health. It is believed that fresh, <a href="https://lunginstitute.com/blog/breathing-in-ocean-air/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">sea air can have positive effects on the respiratory system</a>. It can even help with issues related to asthma, bronchitis, sinus pressure, and more. Ocean air also contains negatively charged hydrogen ions that can function like antioxidants that have multiple benefits for your health.
Living near the sea can also encourage a healthier diet. <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/beach-homes/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Buying a home</a> or <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/beach-condos/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">condo on the coast</a> gives you the opportunity to eat fresh seafood which is something that is recommended for a healthier diet. And since the fish is freshly caught instead of farm-raised, seafood from the coast is more nutritious. You'll be enjoying a healthier, Mediterranean diet without even realizing it.
Encourages People to Live More Active Lives
No matter their age, most Americans need to live more active lives. Living by the beach creates many opportunities for outdoor fun, which can encourage more physical activity. Coastal living promotes physical activities like walking and jogging thanks to coastal paths, local parks, and the beach itself. Living on the gives you easy access to water-related activities like surfing, swimming, kayaking, <a href="https://www.yoloboard.com/sup-boards/board-finder.html" style="color: #5ea6b2;">paddleboarding</a>, diving, snorkeling, etc. If you don't know how to do those things, moving to the coast gives you a reason to learn and have fun doing it.
People who move to Northwest Florida can also enjoy many <a href="https://www.emeraldcoastfl.com/explore/ecotourism-hotspots/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">eco-tourism opportunities</a> that can encourage you to be more active. The Emerald Coast has turtle walks, nature parks, as well as the unique wildlife and natural areas of Florida. These activities are fun, educational and promote the physical activity that can boost your help.
Living Near the Beach Can Improve Your Mental Health
Coastal communities are associated with peaceful, relaxing environments, and this can have a positive effect on the mental health of people who move to the coast. As noted before, coastal communities are smaller and have a lot of nature, and this green space promotes physical and social activity. Many studies have shown that being around more natural environments can have a stress-reducing effect. <a href="http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2014/04/18/waters-psychological-benefits/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Some research studies</a> have found a correlation between health and coastal living and that there was an uptick in mental health among people who lived by the water. This doesn’t mean you have to wait until you retire to enjoy these relaxing benefits.
According to a study performed by <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/inspired-life/wp/2016/05/10/its-time-to-move-to-the-beach-its-for-your-mental-health-research-says/?utm_term=.00a8270e9471" style="color: #5ea6b2;">researchers at Michigan State University</a>, people who lived by the beach saw an improvement in mental health regardless of demographics such as age, sex, and personal income.
There are a lot of great reasons to buy a home on the coast, but you're going to need help finding the house that's right for you. If you're interested in coastal living, <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/buyers/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com</a> can help you find a home on the Emerald Coast, Destin, 30A, South Walton, and Okaloosa counties. We have<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/communities/" style="color: #5ea6b2;"> listings in over a dozen coastal communities</a>.
<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Visit our website</a> or call us at <a href="tel:4043954381" style="color: #5ea6b2;">(404) 395-4381</a> to learn more.2019-02-13T20:59:00-07:002021-02-17T16:34:33-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:775811 Important Things to Know About 1031 Exchanges in Florida
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/1031-Exchanges-11-Important-Things-to-Know.jpg" width="1200" height="629" alt="1031 Exchanges - 11 Important Things to Know" />
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When you sell an investment and profit from the sale, the transaction is usually subject to a capital gains tax. A 1031 exchange can allow you to defer these taxes, provided you reinvest all sales proceeds into another like-kind investment.
A 1031 exchange takes its name from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internal_Revenue_Code_section_1031" target="_blank">Chapter 1031</a> of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) and typically involves the sale of a rental, vacation, or investment property. It can also affect the sale of personal property, such as planes, yachts, artwork, etc. This article explains 11 important things you need to know about 1031 exchanges in Florida.
1. How Florida Real Estate Investors Can Benefit From a 1031 Exchange
As mentioned above, a 1031 exchange will allow you to defer the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/capital_gains_tax.asp" blank="">capital gain taxes</a> on the investment property you sell if you reinvest all of the proceeds into another investment property. So, exactly how does this benefit you as a Florida real estate investor?
Let's say you made a $200,000 profit on the sale of rental property, for which you will incur $70,000 in capital gains taxes. You would then only have $130,000 left to roll into another property. If we assume you will need to put 25% down on the new property and that the mortgage-to-value ratio is 75%, you can only purchase another property with a value of $520,000 or less.
However, a 1031 exchange would allow you to defer the $70,000 tax liability, giving you $200,000 to reinvest in purchasing a replacement property. Given the same assumptions regarding the down payment and mortgage-to-value ratio as above, you would then be able to buy a replacement property with a value of $800,000 rather than the $520,000 property you could afford otherwise.
This example demonstrates that a 1031 exchange can allow you to build wealth faster by keeping all your money working for you instead of going to taxes.
2. Your 1031 Property Must Have Been Held for Business or Investment
To qualify for a 1031 exchange, the property you sell must have been held for business or investment purposes. The property you sell and your replacement property must both be considered held for business or investment. If not, the IRS may disallow your exchange.
That being said, a wide array of real property can qualify for a 1031 exchange as being held for business or investment purposes, for example:
Land - always qualifies as being held for investment purposes
Commercial property - this means the building itself, not the actual business
Income Producing property - a property with rental activity would be income producing and therefore qualify for a 1031 exchange as being held for business purposes.
3. Flips Don't Usually Qualify
Everything regarding a 1031 exchange is based on long-term investment intent. If your goal is immediate resale rather than long-term investment, you may not be a good candidate for a 1031 exchange.
Properties held for resale or to fix up and immediately sell (flip) are not recommended for a 1031 exchange, as the IRS typically considers their inventory rather than investments. Nevertheless, there are a couple of things you can do that may qualify these types of properties for a 1031 exchange:
Rent the property at market value to make it income producing
Hold on to the property for at least a year and a day to reach the long-term capital gains tax rate.
However, it is essential to note that accomplishing these two things alone will not always allow your fixer-upper or flip to qualify for a 1031 exchange. You may have to establish other facts and circumstances, such as rental history and depreciation. So, you should first consult with a CPA who has experience with 1031 exchanges.
4. Your 1031 Exchange Must Involve Like-kind Properties
To qualify for a 1031 exchange, the property sold and the replacement property must be <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/like-kind-exchanges-real-estate-tax-tips" target="_blank">like-kind</a>. This can confuse some investors because they mistakenly believe that this means they have to reinvest in the same type of property that they have sold—residential property for another residential property, for instance.
This is, however, not the case. A like-kind property can be any type of real estate. For example, you can sell a residential rental property and purchase land, sell land and purchase an office building, and so forth.
On the other hand, you cannot sell an investment property and replace it with property intended for personal use. Furthermore, you cannot sell property in the United States and then defer taxes by reinvesting in a foreign property (or vice versa).
30A Condos for Sale
5. Vacation Homes and 1031 Exchanges
The IRS typically will not question whether a residential or vacation property is held for business or investment purposes if specific requirements are met concerning its ownership and use. These requirements are as follows:
For a relinquished property to qualify, you must have owned it for at least 24 months immediately before the exchange. Likewise, for a replacement property to qualify, it must be held for at least 24 months after the exchange.
For every 12 months of the qualifying ownership period mentioned above, you must have rented the property to another party at fair market value for at least 14 days. You may rent the property to a family member if they use it as their primary residence and pay fair market rent.
You must not have occupied the property for personal use for more than 14 days or 10% of the number of days the property was rented out, whichever is greater.
Here, the term personal use refers to:
Use by yourself, a family member, or anyone who has an interest in the property.
Use by anyone who uses the property under an arrangement that also allows you to have some use of the property.
Use by anyone who rents for less than the fair market value. Whether a residential or vacation property is rented at fair market value is determined based on all the facts and circumstances that existed when the rental agreement was signed.
A vacation property that does not meet these requirements may still qualify for a 1031 exchange as relinquished or replacement property, but all other applicable legal requirements will, of course, need to be met.
6. You Must Reinvest 100% of Your Sales Proceeds
To use a 1031 exchange to defer all of your capital gains tax, you must reinvest 100% of the cash you receive from the sale of your relinquished property. This means that the cost of your replacement property must be equal to or greater than the net sales price of the property you sold.
For instance, if you sold a <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin-gulf-front-condos/" title="Destin Beachfront Condos">beachfront condominium</a> for $500,000, then for a valid 1031 exchange, you must spend at least $500,000 to purchase one or more replacement properties, so long as the combined reinvestment is equal to or greater than the net sales price of the condominium you sold.
If you find yourself falling short of this mark, you may be able to use some of the sales proceeds to pay for minor improvements to your replacement property. Similarly, if you reinvest in a parcel of unimproved land, funds used to build on that land can go towards equalizing your exchange. (See Construction Exchange mentioned below)
Suppose you purchase a replacement property of lesser value. In that case, you will only qualify to execute a partial exchange, and any money not spent will be taxed at the applicable tax rate.
It is also important to note that 1031 exchanges are <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/video/play/deferred-tax-asset/" target="_blank">tax-deferred</a> and not tax-free. If you eventually decide to sell your replacement property, you must pay the taxes you previously deferred unless you roll the proceeds into another 1031 exchange.
7. You Must Use a Qualified Intermediary
To successfully defer taxes with a 1031 exchange, you cannot touch the sales proceeds from your relinquished property. Instead, you must use a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qualified_intermediary" target="_blank">Qualified Intermediary</a> and let them handle the transfer of funds for you or risk having your 1031 exchange disallowed.
Working with a qualified intermediary (QI), also referred to as a 1031 facilitator, agent, or exchanger, is essential to your 1031 exchange as it is required by the IRS to complete a tax-deferred transaction successfully.
The role of the QI in your 1031 exchange will be as follows:
Draft the documents necessary for your 1031 exchange
Hold and safeguard your 1031 sales proceeds between selling your relinquished property and purchasing your replacement property.
Work closely with you to ensure that the necessary paperwork is completed properly and that all statutory deadlines are met.
Guide you through the 1031 exchange process and ensure that all of the requirements for a valid 1031 exchange are fulfilled, allowing you to defer your taxes.
8. Who Can Act as Your Qualified Intermediary
The IRC does not say who can act as a QI for a 1031 exchange but tells you who cannot. Examples of parties who cannot act as your QI include:
Your attorney
Your CPA
Your realtor
Your employer
Your employee
Your family members
The goal of the IRC is to make sure that the party that is holding your proceeds is genuinely neutral and does not have any agency relationship with you. So, the bottom line is that your QI should be a neutral third party. Anyone who has had any agency or fiduciary relationship with you within the past two years is automatically disqualified from acting as your QI.
9. The 1031 Exchange Deadlines
You have 180 calendar days from the day the sale of your relinquished property closes to close on your replacement property. However, you have only 45 calendar days to identify potential replacement properties that you wish to purchase and formally submit this list to your QI.
No exceptions or extensions are given for either the 45-day identification period or the 180-day closing period deadlines. Miss either of these deadlines, and your 1031 exchange will be disallowed.
10. Identifying Replacement Properties in Your 1031 Exchange
There are three rules that govern how you can identify potential replacement properties you wish to purchase in a 1031 exchange:
The 3 Property Rule - allows you to identify three properties of any value as potential replacement properties.
The 200% Rule - allows you to identify more than three potential properties to purchase, but their combined value cannot exceed 200% of what your relinquished property sold for.
The 95% Rule - allows you to identify any amount of properties of any value, but you must close on 95% of the total amount identified.
You don't have to be in escrow or have a contract on any of the properties you wish to identify as potential replacement properties. However, you must formally identify them to your QI within the 45-day period allowed.
After the 45-day identification period has elapsed, you will only be allowed to purchase properties that you have formally identified on your 45-day list. If you are unable to buy any of these properties for any reason, then your exchange will be disallowed, and you will be subject to capital gains tax on the sale of your relinquished.
11. Types of 1031 Exchanges
There are four basic types of 1031 exchanges that can be used by Florida real estate investors:
Simultaneous Exchanges
Delayed Exchanges
Reverse Exchanges
Construction Exchanges
Simultaneous Exchanges
A simultaneous exchange involves an investor closing escrow on the property they sold and their replacement property on the same date. A simultaneous exchange is the oldest form of 1031 exchange. In fact, before 1991, most 1031 exchanges were simultaneous exchanges in which one taxpayer would exchange property directly with another.
A simultaneous exchange works great if you and another party each have the property the other wants. For example, when two farmers each have farmland that the other desires, the two can basically swap properties, and in some cases, even without involving a QI or any other third party.
Delayed Exchanges
A delayed exchange, or a forward or deferred exchange, is generally referred to when one discusses a 1031 exchange and is the most common type of 1031 exchange executed. In a delayed exchange, you sell a qualified property one day and purchase a qualifying replacement property sometime within 180 days later.
Most people structure their 1031 exchanges as delayed exchanges because it allows them the time and flexibility to sell the property they wish to relinquish to one party and then purchase the replacement property they desire from a different party.
Reverse Exchanges
In today's real estate market, selling your current property can take a long time, but you don't want to miss the opportunity to acquire a new property when the price is right. A <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/reverse-exchange.asp" target="_blank">reverse exchange</a> can allow you to seize the moment when you see a great deal.
What's more, a reverse exchange can be useful when you've already made an offer on a replacement property, but the property you want to relinquish isn't selling as fast as you anticipated. This is because, with a reverse exchange, you can buy a replacement property first and then later defer taxes on the sale of a relinquished property, provided it is sold within 180 days.
A reverse exchange can be an exceptionally powerful tool for an investor who must immediately act on purchasing a new property. However, since banks don't always give loans for reverse exchanges, and you won't have money from the sale of your relinquished property (because you haven't sold it yet), a reverse exchange is usually only an option for those with a lot of cash to purchase with or who are willing to go to a hard money lender to finance the purchase. For this reason, reverse exchanges only account for approximately 5% of all 1031 exchanges.
Construction Exchanges
A construction exchange, also known as an improvement or build-to-suit exchange, can allow an investor to purchase land and build a replacement property to their own specifications to get exactly the replacement property they need and want.
Here's how a construction exchange works:
You sell the property you want to relinquish, and the proceeds are transferred to your QI. Then you find a piece of raw land or property that needs to be rehabbed and negotiate the lowest price you can get. But, rather than closing on the property yourself, you instead empower your QI to acquire the property for you.
Your QI then holds title to the property during the remainder of the exchange period and uses the remainder of your exchange funds to pay for construction or improvements to the replacement property. Once the construction has been completed, the improved property will be transferred to you as replacement property.
A construction exchange can also be performed as a reverse construction exchange, whereby your QI purchases property on your behalf and initiates improvements before your relinquished property has been sold.
Consult with an Experienced Florida Real Estate Agent
With the right help, a 1031 exchange can be a very simple process and allow you to enjoy the benefit of deferring 100% of your capital gains taxes. This, in turn, will allow you to keep all your money working for you so that you build wealth faster.
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<a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/agents/kimbauman/">Kim Bauman, P.A.</a> is a professional REALTOR® with Amerivest Realty and can help you identify replacement properties, coordinate any real estate transactions and refer you to a reputable attorney, CPA, or title company qualified to act as the QI in your Florida 1031 exchange. She specializes in real estate in NW Florida's <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/" title="Emerald Coast Homes for Sale">Emerald Coast</a> from <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/destin/" title="Destin Real Estate for Sale">Destin</a> and <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/niceville/" title="Niceville Homes for Sale">Niceville</a> to <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/30a/" title="30A Homes for Sale">30A</a> and <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/inlet-beach/" title="Inlet Beach Homes for Sale">Inlet Beach</a> in Florida. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at <a href="tel:4043954381">404-395-4381</a>.
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2018-11-12T15:01:00-07:002023-04-05T07:28:36-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:7444Why You Should Consider Selling in the Winter<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Selling-In-Winter.jpg" width="1200" height="629" alt="Consider Selling a Home in Winter" title="Selling in Winter Attracts Serious Buyers" />
The season you sell your home can have an impact on how much you get for your home and how quickly it sells. The season that has the most success in selling homes is spring. This is a good time of year for families moving to new school districts and is also more convenient weather for moving. Because of this trend, most people will recommend waiting to list your home until after the winter is over. Avoiding the winter is a huge misconception in the housing industry and can cause homeowners to miss out on opportunities.
Selling in the winter can give you a few advantages. There will be fewer houses on the market since most people assume winter is a bad time to sell. This gives your home more attention. Potential buyers are always looking, no matter the time of year. Keeping your house on the market in the winter might bring the right buyer to your door. Real estate agents tend to be less busy during these months and commit more time to sell your home.
Studies have shown winter buyers are buying because they need to move right away either for a relocation or personal situation. They will want to close quickly and allow for a much smoother sale.
Bottom Line
If you need to sell your home right away or have some time but want to see what is out there, consider listing in the winter. Most homeowners who are going to sell will list their homes in the spring, making for a competitive market. The winter allows buyers who are in a hurry to move to consider your home and sell for more money than you would have in the spring.2018-09-05T13:11:00-07:002023-04-05T07:30:58-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:7445Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Home-Mortgage-Difficult.jpg" alt="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" title="Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?" height="629" width="1200" />
Potential homebuyers are always cautioned to be aware of mortgage lending standards and the difficulty they might face when trying to obtain a mortgage. Credit availability is expanding, making it easier to get a mortgage now than it was a year ago. The market is still tight however, and homebuyers should be prepared to shop around until they find a lender who is offering something that will meet the needs of their family.
Mortgage lending companies have high standards so it is important to make sure you and anyone else who will be included on the mortgage have their credit in check. The mortgage market is strict because lenders do not want to be put in a situation where they are forced to repurchase loans that are not paid on. They also do not want to end up in a litigation situation due to loan issues.
What Has Happened to the Number of Mortgages?
Due to the strict nature and requirements of the lending companies, the number of mortgages given out has significantly dropped. A report by the Housing Financial Policy Center at the Urban Institute showed that about 6.3 million fewer mortgages were given out between 2009 and 2015. The reasons behind this statistic are strict regulations and policies. These mortgages would have been granted if the lending standards where more reasonable.
Mortgage companies rely on calculations to determine if a home buyer will become delinquent on their payment. They will not give you a loan if you are too much of a risk for them. Credit history has a huge impact on this decision since lenders can see how often you pay back your debts. The history they receive is extensive. This view into your financial past causes lenders to take less risk when lending to you for your mortgage.
The Effect on the Economy
The housing market is recovering at a slower pace than it should since less potential homebuyers are being offered loans. While the market is still recovering with positive trends, fewer buyers can create a strain on other economic factors like home goods or construction jobs. Bottom Line
After the housing market boom and bust, mortgage lenders became stricter in their lending standards. It is not impossible to get a mortgage loan, but it can still be difficult for potential home buyers. Stay on top of your credit and make sure you and anyone else who is applying are in a good financial position so you can be approved for a loan. It is important to research different companies and their requirements to ensure success in getting a mortgage.2018-08-05T13:11:00-07:002020-01-21T13:12:45-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:7443Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Your-Dream-Home.jpg" alt="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" title="Common Things to Look Out for Before Buying Your Dream Home" height="629" width="1200" />
It is easy to become overwhelmed when you enter the home buying market. Friends, family, colleagues, and even acquaintances will give you their opinions if you are a first time home buyer. While most of them are looking out for your best interest, they are not fully aware of what is happening in the housing market.
It is important for you to be prepared and have your own questions ready. No matter what other opinions you are getting, you are the one buying the home and your comfort level will help make your final decision. Here are three important questions to ask before you purchase a home.
1. Why am I Buying a Home?
Regardless of the finances, it is important to think about what made you want to buy a home in the first place. Usually the reasons don’t have to do with money. Instead, home buyers are focused on how the house will impact their family in the future. A study done by the Joint Center for House Studies at Harvard found there are four reasons people buy a home. Those reasons include schools for your children, a safe environment, more room for your family to grow, and control of your own space.
These factors are the most common reasons people look to buy a new home. When you ask yourself why you are looking to purchase a home, do any of those factors come up? Spend time with your spouse or family members who are involved in this decision and determine why you want a home in the first place. Creating this list will help when searching for a home and can help your real estate agent find the best home for your needs.
2. What is the Trend with Home Values?
Our current economy and housing market is strong. That means home values and mortgage rates are increasing. If you are looking to purchase a home but want to stay within a budget, it may be in your best interest to move quickly. It is forecasted for these trends to continue in an upward motion, causing home values to continue to increase.
3. What About Current Mortgage Rates?
The ticket price is not the only thing you should be concerned with when purchasing a home. Mortgage rates are always changing and can have a huge impact on your monthly payments. Current trends show mortgage rates are rising. This is something to consider if you are debating the right time to purchase a home, since the rates may be even higher down the road.
Bottom Line
You and your family are the only ones who can determine the right time to purchase your dream home. It is important to decide exactly why you want a new home for your family and decide on a budget that will be comfortable moving forward. This budget may affect the amount of time you have to search for a home, since home prices and mortgage rates are increasing. 2018-07-06T13:11:00-07:002020-01-21T13:34:38-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:779610 Staging Secrets From the Pros for a Quick Home Sale at Top Dollar<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Staging-Secrets.jpg" width="1200" height="630" alt="10 Staging Secrets" />
According to the National Association of Realtors, staging a home prior to listing it can result in a faster and more profitable sale.1 In fact, the Real Estate Staging Association estimates that professionally staged properties spend 73 percent less time on the market, receive more foot traffic, and typically sell for more money.2 Following are 10 tips you can use to get your home “show ready” prior to hitting the market. These easy and cost-effective ideas will help your house look its best—and help buyers visualize themselves living there. Even if you’re not currently in the market to sell, you can use these tactics to breathe new life into your existing home decor.If you are thinking of moving in the next 3 to 12 months, schedule a <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sellers/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Free Consultation</a> to help you decided which projects and upgrades are worth your time and money and which ones you can skip.
Remove Clutter<br />Decluttering is typically the first thing we tell clients to do to prepare their home for sale. And according to the National Association of Realtors, a whopping 93 percent of agents agree.1 Decluttering is the act of removing excess “stuff” from your home to make it appear clean and spacious.Overflowing closets and cluttered countertops can make your house feel small and cramped. In contrast, sparsely-filled closets and clear countertops will make your home appear larger and assure buyers that there will be plenty of room to store their belongings.Don’t neglect drawers, cupboards and even your refrigerator in your decluttering efforts. Serious buyers will check out every nook and cranny of your home, so pack up anything you don’t use on a daily basis and store it off site. The same goes for jewelry, sensitive documents, prescription medication, firearms and other items of value. Store them in a locked safe or storage unit before opening your property to buyers.Make sure any items that remain are clean, tidy and well organized. The good news is, when it comes time to move, a large portion of your packing will be done!
Deep Clean and Deodorize<br />From carpets to bathrooms to appliances, having a clean home is a MUST. If you’ve ever checked into a dirty hotel room, you can imagine how buyers can be turned off by a home that hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned.If you have a large home, or are short on time, you may want to invest in a professional cleaning service. And if you have carpet, we generally recommend you rent a steam cleaner or hire a company to clean your carpets for you.In addition to cleaning, it’s equally important to neutralize odors in your home that can be off-putting to buyers, especially pet smells and cigarette smoke. If the weather allows, open your windows and let in fresh air. Empty the trash frequently, and especially before a showing. Avoid cooking any strong-smelling food such as fish or heavy spices. You may need to clean (or remove) drapes and upholstery if odors are particularly strong.Try to keep your home in clean, show-ready condition while it’s on the market. You never know when a potential buyer will want to drop by for a viewing.
Depersonalize<br />Your family photos and personal mementos are often your most treasured possessions. For many of us, they are what make a house a home. However, buyers will have a hard time envisioning themselves living in a place if it feels like YOUR home.Pack up any items that are personal to you and your family, such as photos, books, children’s artwork, travel souvenirs and religious items. Collectibles and excessive knickknacks can be distracting to buyers. Instead, keep your decor items minimal and generic to appeal to the largest number of buyers.
Neutralize Your Color Palette<br />Along those same lines, bold color choices may not appeal to all buyers. By incorporating a neutral color palette throughout your home, buyers can better visualize the addition of their own furniture and decor, which may contrast with your current color scheme.But don’t limit yourself to white and beige. Incorporating earth tones and midtone neutrals—like mocha and “greige” (grey-beige)—can add a touch of modern sophistication to your decor.3One of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to neutralize your home’s decor is with paint. Walls painted in dark, bold or bright colors can turn off buyers. A fresh coat of paint in a neutral color like greige (try Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter) or warm white (such as Kelly-Moore’s Rotunda White) offers a clean palette upon which buyers can visualize adding their own personal touches.4 If your sofa is worn, stained or has a bold pattern, consider purchasing a neutral-colored slipcover. Dated or overly busy window coverings should be taken down or replaced. Instead, bring in tasteful pops of color with throw pillows and accessories.
Increase Your Curb Appeal<br />You only get one chance to make a first impression. According to a 2017 report by the National Association of Realtors, 44 percent of home buyers drove by a property after viewing it online, but did not go inside for a walk-through.5 That means if your curb appeal is lacking, buyers may never make it through the door.Walk around your home and look for any neglected areas that might seem like “red flags” to buyers, such as missing roof shingles or rotted siding. Trim trees and shrubs if needed, and make sure your lawn and flower beds are well maintained. Add some colorful flowers to your front beds and/or flower boxes to brighten up your landscaping.Make sure the exterior of your home is as clean as the interior. This can often be accomplished with a simple garden hose. But if your siding, walkway, or driveway are stained or dingy, you may want to rent a pressure washer.Thoroughly wash windows and screens, and remove and store dark solar screens if you have them. Open shutters, curtains and blinds, which will not only make your house look more inviting from the outside, it will brighten the inside.Consider a fresh coat of paint on your front door, trim and shutters. And small, cosmetic improvements like new house numbers, a colorful wreath and a clean front doormat can have a big impact.6
Freshen Kitchens and Baths<br />Kitchens and bathrooms will show better and appear larger if all items are cleared from the counter-tops, except for one or two decorative pieces.7 You should have already packed up non-essentials during your decluttering process, and the remaining items should be neatly stored in pantries and cupboards.If your cabinets are dingy or outdated, adding a fresh coat of paint and new hardware is an easy and inexpensive way to make them modern and bright. Consider purchasing new shower curtains, bath mats and towels for the bathrooms and new dish towels for the kitchen.Before each showing, make sure kitchens and baths are spotless and trash cans are empty and out of sight. To add a comforting aroma, try baking cookies, or in the fall, simmer some cinnamon sticks and cloves in a pot of water before you leave the house. In the spring, try a vase of fresh cut lilacs.7
Set the Table<br />Buyers often imagine hosting family gatherings in their new home, and the dining room plays a large role in that vision. If your dining room chairs are stained or outdated, you may want to recover them or use slipcovers. In most cases, an imperfect table can be camouflaged with a neutral and stylish tablecloth.Be sure the table is centered underneath the chandelier and on the area rug if you’re using one. If your dining room is small, remove all other furniture and leave only four chairs.8Dress up the table using nice tableware and cloth napkins or a table runner and centerpiece. For a long table, try lining up a series of small vessels down the middle.
Rearrange Furniture<br />Start in your living room and think about what you want to emphasize (and de-emphasize) about the space. For example, do you have a beautiful fireplace or a stunning view? If so, arrange the furniture with that focal point in mind. Use a symmetrical seating arrangement to create a cozy conversation area adjacent to the focal point.If the room is small, consider removing some of the furniture to make it feel larger, especially oversized pieces. That includes oversized television sets, unless it’s a designated media room. Pulling furniture away from the wall can make the room feel more spacious, and placing your largest furniture piece in the far-left corner (as opposed to near the entry) can create the illusion of a larger space.9For small bedrooms, remove all the furniture except the bed, bedside tables and a dresser. If it’s a large room, add one or two chairs and a table to create a seating area. Place lamps on the bedside tables and seating area if you have one.10Make sure each space in your home has a clearly defined purpose. For example, if you’ve been using an extra bedroom as a catch-all storage space, stage it as a guest room or office instead. Turn an awkward alcove into a workstation or a reading corner. Help buyers imagine how they could use the space themselves.3
Lighten Up<br />Lighting can have a drastic impact on the look and feel of a home. Few buyers seek out a dark house; most prefer one that’s light and bright. Make sure windows are clean, and open curtains and blinds to let in the maximum amount of daylight.Each room should have three types of lighting: ambient (general or overhead), task (such as a reading lamp or under-cabinet light), and accent (such as a floor or table lamp). Aim for a goal of 100 total watts per 50 square feet.11 If your mounted light fixtures are dated, replacing them with something more modern is an easy and inexpensive upgrade that can have a big impact.Strategically placed landscape lighting can add a dramatic effect to your home’s exterior. Welcome evening visitors with a lighted walkway, or use a spotlight to accentuate trees or other landscaping features. Solar lights require no wiring; simply place them in a sunny spot and they will turn on automatically at dusk.
Highlight Your Backyard's Best Features<br />While your home’s interior often takes center stage, don’t forget about staging your home’s outdoor areas to help buyers imagine how they could utilize the space.Even a small patio can become a selling feature with the addition of a cafe table and chairs. Add a tray of plates and coffee cups to help buyers envision a peaceful breakfast on the back porch. Place chairs and wine glasses around an outdoor firepit or hang a hammock with a book in your favorite shady spot.3 These small, simple additions can help buyers visualize the possibilities your backyard has to offer.
Before You Get Started
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If you’re in the market to sell your home, this list provides a great starting point for your preparations. But nothing beats the trained eye and expertise of a real estate agent. Before you do any work, we recommend consulting a professional for advice about your particular property. We offer free, no-commitment seller consultations and will walk through your home with you to help you assess which projects and upgrades are worth your time and money, and which ones you can skip. Are you thinking of making upgrades to your home to get it ready to sell? Before you start any projects, get advice from a professional so you don’t waste money on projects that won’t produce a return, or are unnecessary because of current market dynamics. If you are thinking of moving in the next 3 to 12 months, Schedule a Free Consultation to help you decided which projects and upgrades are worth your time and money and which ones you can skip. As local market experts, we are intimately familiar with buyer preferences in your area. We’ll run a comparative market analysis to find out how your home compares to others currently on the market, as well as those that have recently sold. Then we’ll tailor a custom plan to suit your particular property, budget and needs.
Please <a href="tel:4043954381" style="color: #5ea6b2;">call</a> or <a href="mailto:kim@truesouthcoastalhomes.com" style="color: #5ea6b2;">email</a> us today with questions or to <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/sellers/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">schedule a free consultation</a>!
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Sources:
<a href="https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/migration_files/reports/2017/2017-profile-of-home-staging-07-06-2017.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">National Association of Realtors </a>
<a href="http://www.realestatestagingassociation.com/content.aspx?page_id=22&club_id=304550&module_id=164548" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Real Estate Staging Association </a>
<a href="https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2661221/list/sell-your-home-fast-21-staging-tips" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Houzz </a>
<a href="https://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoor-design/landscaping-and-hardscaping/10-curb-appeal-tips-from-the-pros-pictures" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">HGTV </a>
<a href="https://www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/reports/2017/2017-home-buyer-and-seller-generational-trends-03-07-2017.pdf" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">National Association of Realtors </a>
<a href="https://www.thespruce.com/must-try-neutral-paint-colors-797983" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">The Spruce </a>
<a href="https://www.houselogic.com/sell/preparing-your-home-to-sell/home-staging-checklist/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">HouseLogic </a>
<a href="http://www.stagemyownhome.com/staging-the-dining-room.html" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">StageMyOwnHome.com </a>
<a href="https://www.realtor.com/advice/sell/small-living-room-staging-tricks/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Realtor.com </a>
<a href="http://homeguides.sfgate.com/stage-master-bedroom-34573.html" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">SFGATE </a>
<a href="https://www.hgtv.com/shows/designed-to-sell/15-secrets-of-home-staging-pictures" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">HGTV </a>
2018-05-11T07:54:00-07:002020-01-21T13:24:37-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:7797Why Real Estate Investing Makes (Dollars and) Sense<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Real-Estate-Investing.jpg.jpg" width="744" height="400" alt="Real Estate Investing Makes Sense" title="Real Estate Investing" />
<article>Turn on the television or scroll through Facebook, and chances are you’ll see at least one advertisement for a group or “guru” who promises to teach you how to “get rich quick” through real estate investing. The truth is, much of what they’re selling are high-risk tactics that aren’t a good fit for the average investor. However, there is a way to make steady, predictable, low-risk income through real estate investing. In this blog post, we’ll examine the tried-and-true tactics that can be used to increase your income, pay off debt … even fund your retirement!</article>
Why Invest in Real Estate
One of the basic principles of real estate investment lies in this fact: everyone needs a place to live. And according to the Government of Canada’s Average Household Expenditures data, housing is typically a Canadian’s largest expense.1 But there are other reasons why real estate is a great investment choice, and we’ve outlined the top five below:
Appreciation - Appreciation is the increase in your property’s value over time. History has proven that over an extended period of time, the value of real estate continues to rise. That doesn’t mean recessions won’t occur. The real estate market is cyclical, and market ups and downs are natural. In fact, the U.S. housing market took a sharp downturn in 2008, and many properties took several years to recover their value. However, in the vast majority of markets, the value of real estate does grow over the long term.The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller National Home Price Index, which tracks U.S. residential real estate prices, released its latest results on August 29 with the headline “National Home Price Index Rises Again to All Time High.”2 While no investment is without risk, real estate has proven again and again to be a solid choice to invest your money over the long term.
Hedge Against Inflation - Inflation is the rate at which the general cost of goods and services rises. As inflation rises, prices go up. This means the money you have in your bank account is essentially worth less because your purchasing power has decreased. Luckily, real estate prices also rise when inflation increases. That means any money you have invested in real estate will rise with (or often exceed) the rate of inflation. Therefore, real estate is a smart place to put your money to guard against inflation.
Cash Flow - One of the big benefits of investing in real estate over the stock market is its ability to provide a fairly steady and predictable monthly cash flow. That is, if you choose to rent out your investment property to a tenant, you can expect to receive a rent payment each month.If you’ve invested wisely, the rent payment should cover the debt obligation you may have on the property (i.e. mortgage), as well as any repairs and maintenance that are needed. Ideally, the monthly rental income would be great enough to leave you a little extra cash each month, as well. You could use that extra money to pay off the mortgage faster, cover your own household expenses, or save for another investment property.Even if you only take in enough rent to cover your expenses, a rental property purchase will pay for itself over time. As you pay down the mortgage every month with your rental income, your equity will continue to increase, until you own the property free and clear … leaving you wth residual cash flow for years to come. As the owner, you will also benefit from the property’s appreciation when it comes time to sell. This can be a great way to save for retirement or even fund a child’s college education. Purchase a property when the child is young, and with a little discipline, it can be paid off by the time they are ready to go to college. You can sell it for a lump sum, or use the monthly income to pay their tuition and expenses.
Leverage - One of the unique features that sets real estate apart from other asset classes is the ability to leverage your investment. Leverage is the use of borrowed capital to increase the potential return of an investment.For example, if you purchase an investment property for $100,000, you might put 10% down ($10,000) and borrow the remaining $90,000 in the form of a mortgage.Even though you’ve only invested $10,000 at this point, you have the ability to earn a profit on the entire $100,000 investment. So, if the property appreciates to $120,000 – a 20% increase over the purchase price – you still only have to pay the bank back the original $90,000 (plus interest) … and you get to keep the $20,000 profit. That means you made $20,000 off of a $10,000 investment, essentially doubling your money, even though the market only went up by 20%! That’s the power of leverage.
Tax Advantages - One of the top reasons to invest in real estate is the tax benefit. There are numerous ways a real estate investment can save you money each year on taxes:
Depreciation - When you record your income from a rental property on your annual tax return, you get to deduct any expenses associated with the investment. This includes interest paid on the mortgage, maintenance, repairs and improvements, but it also includes something called depreciation.Depreciation is the theoretical loss your property suffers each year due to aging. While it’s true that as a home ages it will structurally need repairs and systems will eventually need to be replaced, we’ve also learned in this post that the value of real estate appreciates over time. So getting to claim a “loss” on your investment that is actually gaining in value makes real estate an appealing investment choice.
Serial Home Selling - Even if you’re not interested in owning a rental property, other types of real estate investments offer tax advantages, as well. Generally, when you own an investment property you pay a capital gains tax on any profits you make when you sell the property.However, when you sell your principal residence, you are exempt from paying taxes on capital gains (up to $250,000 for singles and $500,000 for couples). The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) only requires that you live in the house for two of the previous five years. That means you can purchase an investment property, live in it while you remodel it, and then sell it for a tax-free profit two years later. This can be a great way to get started in real estate investing.
Section 1031 Exchanges - In addition to profiting off of your personal residence tax free, it is possible to sell an investment property tax free if you do it through a <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/blog/11-important-things-to-know-about-1031-exchanges-in-florida/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">1031 Exchange</a>. If structured properly, the IRS Tax Code enables an investor to sell a property and reinvest the proceeds in a new property while deferring all capital gains taxes.
Tax-Deferred Retirement Account - It’s a common misconception that you can only purchase financial instruments (i.e. stocks, bonds, mutual funds, etc.) through an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or 401(k). In actuality, the IRS allows individuals to invest retirement funds in real estate and other alternative types of investments, as well. By purchasing your investment property through an IRA, you can take advantage of all of the tax savings these accounts offer.Be sure to consult a tax professional regarding all tax matters related to your real estate investments. If structured correctly, the profits you earn on your real estate investments can be largely shielded from tax liability. Just another reason to choose real estate as your preferred investment vehicle.
Types of Real Estate Investments
<article>While there are numerous ways to invest in real estate, we’re going to focus on three primary ways average investors earn money through real estate. We touched on several of these already in the previous section.</article>
Remodel and Resell - HGTV has countless “reality” shows featuring property flippers who make this investment strategy look easy. Commonly referred to as a “Fix and Flip,” investors purchase a property with the intention of remodeling it in a short period of time, with the hope of selling it quickly for a profit.This is a higher-risk tactic, and one for which many of the real estate “gurus” we talked about earlier claim to have the magic formula. They promise huge profits in a short amount of time. But investors need to understand the risks involved, and be prepared financially to cover additional expenses that may arise.Luckily, an experienced real estate agent can help you identify properties that may be good candidates for this type of investment strategy… and help you avoid some of the pitfalls that could derail your plans.
Traditional Rental - One of the more conservative choices for investing in real estate is to purchase a rental property. The appeal of a rental property is that you can generate cash flow to cover the expenses, while taking advantage of the property’s long-term appreciation in value, and the tax benefits of investing in real estate. It’s a win-win, and a great way for first-time investors to get started.And according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, rents for primary residences have increased 21.9 percent between 2007 and 2015 as demand for rental units continues to grow.1
Short-term Rental - With the huge movement toward a “sharing economy,” platforms that facilitate short-term rentals, like Airbnb and HomeAway, are booming. Their popularity has spurred a growing trend toward dual-purpose vacation homes, which owners use themselves part of the year, and rent out the remainder of the time. There are also a growing number of investors purchasing single-family homes for the sole purpose of leasing them on these sites.Short-term rentals offer several benefits over traditional rentals, which many investors find attractive, including flexibility and higher profit margins. However, the most profitable properties are strategically located near popular tourist destinations. You’ll need an experienced real estate professional to help you identify the right property if you want to be successful in this highly-competitive market.
Does Real Estate Investing Sound Too Good to Be True?
<article>We’ve all heard stories, or maybe even know someone, who struck it rich with a well-timed real estate purchase. However, just like any investment strategy, a high potential for earnings often goes hand-in-hand with an increase in risk. Still, there’s substantial evidence that a well-executed real estate investment can be one of the best choices for your money. Purchasing a home to remodel and resell can be highly profitable, as long as you have a trusted team in place to complete the remodel quickly and within budget … and the financial means to carry the property for a few extra months if delays occur. Or, if you buy a house for appreciation and cash flow, you can ride through the market ups and downs without stress because you know your property value is bound to increase over time, and your expenses are covered by your rental income. In either scenario, make sure you’re working with a real estate agent who has knowledge of the investment market and can guide you through the process. While no investment is without risk, a conservative and well-planned investment in real estate can supplement your income and set you up for future financial security.</article>
<aside>If you are considering an investment in real estate, please <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/buyers/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">contact</a> us to set up a free consultation. We have experience working with all types of investors and can help you determine the best strategy to meet your investment goals.</aside>
Sources
<a href="https://www.bls.gov/opub/reports/consumer-expenditures/2015/home.htm" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey Annual Report </a>
<a href="https://www.spice-indices.com/idpfiles/spice-assets/resources/public/documents/574349_cshomeprice-release-0829.pdf?force_download=true" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">S&P Dow Jones Indices Press Release </a>
<a href="http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-11-29/us-home-prices-rise-above-july-2006-levels-hit-new-record-high" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Durden, T. (2016 November 29). US Home Prices Rise Above July 2006 Levels, Hit New Record High [blog post] ZeroHedge </a>
2018-04-04T09:27:00-07:002023-03-13T09:32:52-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:7798Welcome Home: 10 Tips to Turn Your Neighborhood Into a Hometown Haven<article>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Hometown-Haven.jpg" width="1200" height="630" alt="Hometown Haven" title="10 Tips to Turn Your Neighborhood Into a Hometown Haven" />
While advancements in technology have made it possible for us to connect with people from around the world, numerous studies show that it has led to a decline in face-to-face interactions.1 Places where we used to strike up casual conversations, such as a doctor’s office waiting room, bus stop or grocery line, are now filled with people looking at their smart phones, barely acknowledging those around them. Even many families dining together or relaxing in the evenings can be caught spending more time focused on screens than each other. Is it any surprise that we’ve experienced a steady decline in community involvement? In his book Bowling Alone, Harvard Public Policy Professor Robert Putnam “draws on evidence including nearly 500,000 interviews over the last quarter century to show that we sign fewer petitions, belong to fewer organizations that meet, know our neighbors less, meet with friends less frequently, and even socialize with our families less often.”2 How is this shift impacting our overall well being? A study by Oregon Health & Science University researchers found that having limited face-to-face social contact nearly doubles an individual’s risk of depression.3
"Communities work better (students perform better, crime rates are lower, kids are safer, people live longer) when neighbors know one another better. Knowing your neighbor on a first-name basis...is a surprisingly effective first step." - Robert Putnam, Harvard Public Policy Professor and author of Bowling Alone
Connecting with Your Community
If you’re considering a move to a new city or neighborhood, you may be worried about replacing the comfort and support of family and friends you’ll leave behind. Or perhaps you have completed a move but would like to meet more people, build friendships and strengthen your support system. In this post, we’ll explore 10 ways you can utilize technology to foster in-person connections with your neighbors, make friends and get engaged in your local community.
Attend a Place of Worship - If you have a religious affiliation, joining a local place of worship is great way to meet people and get involved in your community. Aside from attending services, most religious institutions also host extracurricular activities to foster fellowship among the congregation. To make the most of your affiliation, look for opportunities to meet in smaller group settings. It’s a great way to form interpersonal relationships with people who share your beliefs and values.
Join Your Neighborhood's Social Network - A growing number of neighborhoods are utilizing private social networks like U.S.-based <a href="https://nextdoor.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Nextdoor</a> and Canadian-based <a href="https://www.goneighbour.org/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">GoNeighbour</a>. These platforms are designed specifically to connect neighbors. Residents post about a variety of topics, including neighborhood news, recommendations for local businesses, lost pets, etc. But don’t just use them to connect virtually. Extend an invitation to your neighbors to attend an in-person event, such as a park play date for families, an informal soccer game or a potluck block party.
Find an Interest Group - Whatever your favorite hobby or pastime, you’re guaranteed to meet people who share your interests when you join an interest group! The website <a href="https://www.meetup.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Meetup.com</a> has over 32 million members in 288,000 groups in 182 countries. You can search for a group in your area that appeals to you … from book clubs to running groups to professional networking, they have it all. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, you can start your own group for a monthly fee. The site makes it easy to ask (or require) members to pitch in to cover the cost. It also enables you to promote a corporate sponsor on your page, so you may be able to find a local business to cover the cost. Most people who join Meetup are there for the same reason you are … to meet people who share their interests. So it’s a great place to make like-minded friends in your community.
Lend a Hand - Volunteering your time and talents is another good way to get engaged in your community and meet those who share a similar mission. Most nonprofit organizations rely heavily on volunteers. Find one with a cause you’re passionate about by visiting <a href="https://www.volunteermatch.org/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">VolunteerMatch</a>. You can search by cause, location and keywords, and filter your results to include opportunities that are suitable for kids, seniors or groups. Another option is to search for volunteer positions that require specialized skills. Perhaps you’re musical or maybe you’re good with computers. There could be an organization in your area that needs your talents or skills. <a href="http://lotsahelpinghands.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Lotsa Helping Hands</a> is another site focused on connecting volunteers with those in need. Members can request help or search for opportunities to assist others in their area. Most of the volunteer opportunities involve aiding neighbors who are ill or elderly by delivering meals, offering rides to appointments or just stopping by for a visit. This can be a great way to make a direct impact on your neighbors who need a helping hand!
Take a Class - Taking a class is a wonderful way to develop a skill while meeting people who share your interests and passion for learning. Whether you want to brush up on your Spanish, finish your novel, or learn how to tango, most community colleges offer inexpensive, non-credit classes on a variety of topics. And if you are pursuing a degree, forego taking your courses online. Opt for the traditional route instead. There’s no substitute for being part of a live community of your peers. To search for a community college in your area, visit the <a href="https://www.aacc.nche.edu/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">American Association of Community Colleges</a> or <a href="http://www.schoolsincanada.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">SchoolsInCanada.com</a>.
Attend an Event Attending a live event is another way to engage with members of your community. From festivals to fundraisers to retreats, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Eventbrite</a> is a great place to search for events in your area. You can filter your search by category, event type, date and price to find something that fits your interests, schedule and budget. Be strategic about the type of event you choose. For example, while attending a large festival might be a fun way to feel engaged with your community, it might also be harder to meet people. A retreat or a networking event may offer more opportunities for one-on-one interaction.
Share Your Stuff Everyone’s talking about the rise of the “sharing economy” with the popularity of Uber and Airbnb. But there’s also been a rise in “sharing communities,” which facilitate the free exchange of goods among neighbors to reduce consumption and keep usable items out of landfills. Nonprofit groups like <a href="https://www.freecycle.org/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">The Freecycle Network</a> are made up of people who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns and neighborhoods. Members can post “offers” of free items or “wanted” items they need. The company <a href="https://www.peerby.com/one" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Peerby</a> has a similar goal of reducing consumption by encouraging neighbors to lend and borrow items they don’t often use. For example, you can offer to share your blender, rake or ladder. Maybe you need to borrow a drill, cake pan or moving trolley. Peerby enables you to request items to borrow from your neighbors and encourages you to register items you are willing to lend. The <a href="https://littlefreelibrary.org/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Little Free Library</a> is another innovative way neighbors are participating in a sharing community. Stewards build or purchase a box to house the library and fill it with books they are willing to give away. The library is usually placed in their front yard or in a public outdoor space. Visitors are encouraged to take a book they’d like to read, and in exchange leave a book for someone else to enjoy. With over 60,000 libraries in 80 countries, the organization estimates millions of books are exchanged annually among neighbors.
Support a Community Garden Community gardens have become increasingly popular in both urban and rural areas across North America. Not only do they beautify a neighborhood, they also foster community, encourage self-reliance, reduce family food budgets, conserve resources, and provide opportunities for recreation and exercise. The mission of the <a href="https://communitygarden.org/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">American Community Gardening Association</a> is to build community by increasing and enhancing community gardening and greening across the United States and Canada. The organization’s website enables you to search for existing community gardens in your area. If there isn’t one nearby, you might considering starting one. The site provides helpful tips and resources for organizing a garden in your neighborhood.
Carpool with a Coworker In the spirit of joining a “sharing community,” carpooling offers many similar benefits. It presents an opportunity to form a bond with coworkers and/or neighbors during your daily commute. Additionally, you can save money on gas, reduce wear-and-tear on your vehicle, lower carbon emissions, and in many cities reduce your commute time by taking advantage of high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) travel lanes. The success of ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft has spurred a new wave of carpooling websites and apps that aim to revolutionize the way we commute by making it easier and more convenient to carpool. While many of these are still in their infancy stages, they are expanding into new markets and improving functionality at a rapid pace. <a href="https://local.kangaride.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Kangaride Local</a>, <a href="https://www.takescoop.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Scoop</a> and <a href="https://www.waze.com/carpool/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Waze Carpool</a> are just a few examples, and more are popping up every day. They are currently available in limited markets throughout the United States and Canada, but are becoming prevalent in more cities as residents opt-in. Check to see if any of these are available in your local area. Alternatively, you can try posting on your neighborhood’s social network to see if one or more of your neighbors are commuting to a nearby location. Take turns driving and start benefiting from all that carpooling has to offer!
Participate in Wold Neighbor's Day - The organizers behind <a href="http://www.world-neighbours-day.org/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">World Neighbors Day</a> promote it as “an invitation to share a moment with your neighbors, to get to know each other better and develop a real sense of community.” In Canada it’s held on the second Saturday in June, and in the United States it’s held on the third Sunday in September. Participants are encouraged to organize gatherings with their neighbors to build relationships that “form the fabric of our communities.” You can participate by attending or organizing a gathering in your neighborhood. Examples include: a block party, outdoor movie screening, book exchange, charity bake sale, volleyball game, etc. Anything that brings neighbors together in a fun and relaxed setting is a good choice! Gatherings can be promoted through your neighborhood’s social media network, blog or listserv, or you can go the old-fashioned route and hand out flyers door-to-door. Whatever you do, be sure to make your gathering inclusive and welcoming to all.
<aside>
Be a good neighbor
As with anything in life, you will get out what you put in. It can take time to build lasting and meaningful friendships with your neighbors, but the effort you make is likely to pay off tenfold. The tried-and-true way to make friends, expand your circle, grow your support system and get engaged in your community? Be a good neighbor yourself. Are you considering a move to a new neighborhood? We are local market experts, and we can help you find the perfect neighborhood to meet your needs. Please contact us for a <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/buyers/" style="color: #5ea6b2;">free consultation</a>!
</aside>
Sources:
<a href="http://www.kon.org/urc/v14/lengacher.html" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Lengacher, L. (2015) Mobile Technology: Its Effect on Face-to-Face Communication and Interpersonal Interaction. Undergraduate Research Journal for the Human Sciences </a>
<a href="http://bowlingalone.com/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Putnam, R. (2000) Bowling Alone. New York: Simon & Schuster </a>
<a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201510/face-face-social-contact-reduces-risk-depression" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Bergland, C. (2015 October 5) Face-to-Face Social Contact Reduces Risk of Depression. Psychology Today </a>
</article>2018-03-06T15:15:00-07:002020-01-21T13:29:21-07:00John Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:7805House Care Calendar: A Seasonal Guide to Maintaining Your Home<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/House-Care-Calendar.jpg" width="1200" height="630" alt="Seasonal Guide to Maintaining Your Home" title="Seasonal Guide to Maintaining Your Home" />
<article>
From summer vacations to winter holidays, it seems each season offers the perfect excuse to put off our to-do list. But be careful, homeowners: neglecting your home’s maintenance could put your personal safety—and one of your largest financial investments—at serious risk. In no time at all, small problems can lead to extensive and expensive repairs. And even if you avoid a catastrophe, those minor issues can still have a big impact. Properties that are not well maintained can lose 10 percent (or more) of their appraised value.1 The good news is, by dedicating a few hours each season to properly maintaining your home, you can ensure a safe living environment for you and your family, and actually increase the value of your home by one percent annually!1 You just need to know where and how to spend your time. Use the following checklist as a guide to maintaining your home and lawn throughout the year. It's applicable for all climates, so please share it with friends and family members who you think could benefit, no matter where their home is located.
Spring
After a long, cold winter, many of us look forward to a fresh start in the spring. Wash away the winter grime, open the windows, and prepare your home for warmer weather and backyard barbecues.
Inside
Annual Spring Cleaning
Be sure to tackle those areas that may have gone neglected—such as your blinds, baseboards, and fan blades—as well as appliances, including your refrigerator, dishwasher, oven and range hood. Clear out clutter and clothes you no longer wear, and toss old and expired food and medications.
Shut Down Heating System
Depending on the type of heating system you have, you may need to shut your system down when not in use. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper procedures.
Tune Up A/C
If your home has central air conditioning, schedule an annual tune-up with your HVAC technician. If you have a portable or window unit, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper maintenance.2
Check Plumbing
It’s a good idea to periodically check your plumbing to spot any leaks or maintenance issues. Look for evidence of leaks—such as water stains on the ceiling—and check for dripping faucets or running toilets that need to be addressed. Inspect your hot water heater for sediment build-up. Check your sump pump (if you have one) to ensure it’s working properly.3
Inspect Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Batteries should be replaced every six months, so change them now and again in the fall. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to test your individual devices. And even properly functioning devices should be replaced at least every 10 years, or per the manufacturer’s recommendation.4
Outside
Inspect Perimeter of Home
Walk around your house and look for any signs of damage or wear and tear that should be addressed. Are there cracks in the foundation? Peeling paint? Loose or missing roof shingles? Make a plan to make needed repairs yourself or hire a contractor.
Clean Home’s Exterior
Wash windows and clean and replace screens if they were removed during the winter months. For the home’s facade, it’s generally advisable to use the gentlest method that is effective. A simple garden hose will work in most cases.5
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts should be cleaned at least twice a year. Neglected gutters can cause water damage to a home, so make sure yours are clean and free of debris. If your gutters have screens, you may be able to decrease the frequency of cleanings, but they should still be checked periodically.6
Rake Leaves
Gently rake your lawn to remove leaves and debris. Too many leaves can cause an excessive layer of thatch, which can damage the roots of your lawn. They can also harbor disease-causing organisms and insects.7 However, take care because overly vigorous raking can damage new grass shoots.
Seed or Sod Lawn
If you have bare spots, spring is a good time to seed or lay new sod so you can enjoy a beautiful lawn throughout the remainder of the year. The peak summer heat can be too harsh for a new lawn. If you miss this window, early fall is another good time to plant.8
Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide
While a healthy lawn is the best deterrent for weeds, some homeowners choose to use a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring to minimize weeds. When applied at the right time, it can be effective in preventing weeds from germinating. However, a pre-emergent herbicide will also prevent grass seeds from germinating, so only use it if you don’t plan to seed or sod in the spring.
Plant Flowers
After a long winter, planting annuals and spring perennials is a great way to brighten up your garden. It’s also a good time to prune existing flowers and shrubs and remove and compost any dead plants.
Mulch Beds
A layer of fresh mulch helps to suppress weeds, retain moisture and moderate soil temperature. However, be sure to strip away old mulch at least every three years to prevent excessive buildup.9
Fertilize Lawn
Depending on your grass type, an application of fertilizer in the spring may help promote new leaf and root growth, keep your lawn healthy, and reduce weeds.10
Tune Up Lawn Mower
Send your lawn mower out for a professional tune-up and to have the blades sharpened before the mowing season starts.1
Inspect Sprinkler System
If you have a sprinkler system, check that it’s working properly and make repairs as needed.
Check the Deck
If you have a deck or patio, inspect it for signs of damage or deterioration that may have occurred over the winter. Then clean it thoroughly and apply a fresh coat of stain if needed.
Prepare Pool
If you own a pool, warmer weather signals the start of the pool season. Be sure to follow best practices for your particular pool to ensure proper maintenance and safety.
Summer
Summer is generally the time to relax and enjoy your home, but a little time devoted to maintenance will help ensure it looks great and runs efficiently throughout the season.
Inside
Adjust Ceiling Fans
Make sure they are set to run counter-clockwise in the summer to push air down and create a cooling breeze. Utilizing fans instead of your air conditioner, when possible, will help minimize your utility bills.
Clean A/C Filters
Be sure to clean or replace your filters monthly, particularly if you’re running your air conditioner often.
Clear Dryer Vent
Help cut down on summer utility bills by cleaning your laundry dryer vent at least once a year. Not only will it help cut down on drying times, but a neglected dryer also poses a serious fire hazard.
Check Weather Stripping
If you’re running your air conditioner in the summer, you’ll want to keep the cold air inside and hot air outside. Check weather stripping around doors and windows to ensure a good seal.
Outside
Mow Lawn Regularly
Your lawn will probably need regular mowing in the summer. Adjust your mower height to the highest setting, as taller grass helps shade the soil to prevent drought and weeds.
Water Early in the Morning
Ensure your lawn and garden get plenty of water during the hot summer months. Experts generally recommend watering in the early morning to minimize evaporation, but be mindful of any watering restrictions in your area, which may limit the time and/or days you are allowed to water.
Weed Weekly
To prevent weeds from taking over your garden and ruining your home’s valuable curb appeal, make a habit of pulling weeds at least once per week.
Exterminate Pests
Remove any standing water and piles of leaves and debris. Inspect your lawn and perimeter of your home for signs of an invasion. If necessary, call a professional exterminator for assistance.
Fall
Fall ushers in another busy season of home maintenance as you prepare your home for the winter weather ahead.
Inside
Have Heater Serviced
To ensure safety and efficiency, it’s a good idea to have your heating system serviced and inspected before you run it for the first time.
Shut Down A/C for the Winter
If you have central air conditioning, you can have it serviced at the same time as your furnace. If you have a portable or window unit, ensure it’s properly sealed or remove it and store it for the winter.
Inspect Chimney
Fire safety experts recommend that you have your chimney inspected annually and cleaned periodically. Complete this task before you start using your fireplace or furnace.
Seal Windows and Doors
Check windows and doors for drafts and caulk or add weatherstripping where necessary.
Check Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
If you checked your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the spring, they are due for another inspection. Batteries should be replaced every six months, so it’s time to replace them again. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to test your individual devices. And even properly functioning devices should be replaced at least every 10 years, or per the manufacturer’s recommendation.3
Outside
Plant Fall Flowers, Grass and Shrubs
Fall is a great time to plant perennials, trees, shrubs, cool-season vegetables and bulbs that will bloom in the spring.12 It’s also a good time to reseed or sod your lawn.
Rake or Mow Leaves
Once the leaves start falling, it’s time to pull out your rake. A thick layer of leaves left on your grass can lead to an unhealthy lawn. Or, rather than raking, use a mulching mower to create a natural fertilizer for your lawn.
Apply Fall Fertilizer
If you choose not to use a mulching mower, a fall fertilizer is usually recommended. For best results, aerate your lawn before applying the fertilizer.13
Inspect Gutters and Roof
Inspect your gutters and downspouts and make needed repairs. Check the roof for any broken or loose tiles. Remove fallen leaves and debris.
Shut Down Sprinkler System
If you have a sprinkler system, drain any remaining water and shut it down to prevent damage from freezing temperatures over the winter.
Close Pool
If you have a pool, it’s time to clean and close it up before the winter.
Winter
While it can be tempting to ignore home maintenance issues in the winter, snow and freezing temperatures can do major damage if left untreated. Thankfully, here on the Emerald Coast it rarely falls below freezing and we don't need snow blowers here. =) For those of you that have second homes up North, be sure to follow these steps to ensure your house survives the winter months.
Inside
Maintain Heating System
Check and change filters on your heating system, per the manufacturer's instructions. If you have a boiler, monitor the water level.
Tune Up Generator
If you own a portable generator, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance. Make sure it’s working before you need it, and stock up on supplies like fuel, oil, and filters.
Prevent Frozen Pipes
Make sure pipes are well insulated, and keep your heat set to a minimum of 55 degrees when you’re away. If pipes are prone to freezing, leave faucets dripping slightly overnight or when away from home. You may also want to open cabinet doors beneath sinks to let in heat.
Outside
Drain and Shut Off Outdoor Faucets
Before the first freeze, drain and shut off outdoor faucets. Place an insulated cover over exposed faucets, and store hoses for the winter.
Remove Window Screens
Removing screens from your windows allows more light in to brighten and warm your home during the dark, cold winter months. Snow can also get trapped between screens and windows, causing damage to window frames and sills.
Service Snowblower
Don’t wait until the first snowstorm of the season to make sure your snowblower is in good working order. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance or have it serviced by a professional.
Stock Up on Ice
Melt Keep plenty of ice melt, or rock salt, on hand in preparation for winter weather. Look for brands that will keep kids and pets safe without doing damage to your walkway or yard.
Watch Out for Ice Dams
Ice dams are thick ridges of solid ice that can build up along the eaves of your house. They can do major damage to gutters, shingles, and siding. Heated cables installed prior to the first winter storm can help.14
Check for Snow Buildup on Trees
Snow can cause tree limbs to break, which can be especially dangerous if they are near your home. Use a broom to periodically remove excess snow.15
While this checklist should not be considered a complete list of your home’s maintenance needs, it can serve as a general seasonal guide. Systems, structures, and fixtures will need to be repaired and replaced from time-to-time, as well. The good news is, the investment you make in maintaining your home now will pay off dividends over time. Keep a record of all your maintenance, repairs and upgrades for future reference, along with receipts. Not only will it help jog your memory, but it can also make a big impact on buyers when it comes time to sell your home, and potentially result in a higher selling price.
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<aside>Are you looking for help with home maintenance or repairs? We have an extensive network of trusted contractors and service providers and are happy to provide referrals! <a href="tel:4043954381" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Call</a> or <a href="mailto:kim@truesouthcoastalhomes.com" style="color: #5ea6b2;">email us, and we can connect you with one of our preferred vendors. </a></aside>
Sources:
HouseLogic.com - How Much Value Does Regular Maintenance Add to Your Home?
<a href="https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/servicing-your-air-conditioner/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Home Advisor</a> - Air Conditioning Check-Up 101
<a href="http://keyes-plumbing.com/things-to-check-in-spring/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Keyes & Sons Plumbing and Heating</a> - 6 Important Things to Check in the Spring
<a href="https://blog.allstate.com/test-smoke-detectors/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Allstate Insurance Blog - How to Test Your Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms </a>
<a href="https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17268616/list/how-to-wash-your-house" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Houzz</a> - How to Wash Your House
<a href="https://www.angieslist.com/articles/why-gutter-cleaning-so-important.htm" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Angie’s List</a> - Why Is Gutter Cleaning So Important?
<a href="https://www.angieslist.com/articles/what-thatch-and-how-does-it-impact-my-lawn.htm" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Angie’s List</a> - What is thatch and How Does it Impact My Lawn?
<a href="http://www.hgtv.com/design/outdoor-design/landscaping-and-hardscaping/lawns/top-spring-lawn-care-tips-pictures" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">HGTV</a> - 12 Spring Lawn Care Tips to Ensure a Beautiful Yard All Year Long
<a href="https://www.thisoldhouse.com/more/may-mulching" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">This Old House</a> - May Is for Mulching
<a href="https://www.lowes.com/projects/lawn-and-garden/fertilize-your-lawn/project" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Lowes</a> - Fertilize Your Lawn
<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/guides/realestate/home-maintenance-checklist" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">The New York Times</a> - The Annual Home Maintenance Checklist
<a href="https://www.bhg.com/gardening/yard/garden-care/what-to-plant-in-the-fall/" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Better Homes and Gardens Magazine</a> - What to Plant in the Fall
<a href="https://www.thespruce.com/late-fall-fertilizing-2152976" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">The Spruce</a> - Fertilizing Your Garden or Lawn in Late Fall
<a href="https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-get-rid-ice-dams" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">This Old House</a> - How to Get Rid of Ice Dams
<a href="https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/55572864/list/your-winter-home-maintenance-checklist" target="_blank" style="color: #5ea6b2;">Houzz</a> - Your Winter Home Maintenance Checklist
2018-02-10T09:42:00-07:002020-02-08T06:04:42-07:00Kim Baumantag:truesouthcoastalhomes.com,2012-09-20:7806The Home Buyer's Guide to Getting Mortgage Ready<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1068/image/Home-Buyers-Guide.jpg" width="1200" height="630" alt="Home Buyer's Guide" title="Home Buyer's Guide" />
Don't wait until you're ready to move; start preparing financially to buy a home. If you're like the vast majority of home buyers, you will choose to finance your purchase with a mortgage loan. By preparing in advance, you can avoid the common delays and roadblocks many buyers face when applying for a mortgage. The requirements to secure a mortgage may seem overwhelming, especially if you're a first-time buyer. But we've outlined three simple steps to get you started on your path to homeownership. Even if you're a current homeowner, preparing in advance is a good idea to avoid surprises. Lending requirements have become more rigorous in recent years, and changes to your credit history, debt levels, job type, and other factors could impact your chances of approval. It's never too early to start preparing to buy a home. Follow these three steps to begin laying the foundation for your future home purchase today!
STEP 1: CHECK YOUR CREDIT SCORE
Your credit score is one of the first things a lender will check to see if you qualify for a loan. Reviewing your credit report and scoring yourself before you're ready to apply for a mortgage is a good idea. If you have a low score, you will need time to raise it. Sometimes, fraudulent activity or erroneous information will appear on your report, which can take months to correct. The credit score most lenders use is your FICO score, a weighted score developed by the Fair Isaac Corporation that takes into account your payment history (35%), amounts owed (30%), length of credit history (15%), new credit (10%), and credit mix (10%)1. Base FICO scores range from 300 to 850. A higher FICO score will help you qualify for a lower mortgage interest rate, saving you money.2 By federal law, you are entitled to one free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and Transunion). Request your free credit report at <a href="https://www.annualcreditreport.com">Annual Credit Report.com</a>.
Minimum Score Requirements
To qualify for the lowest interest rates available, you will usually need a FICO score of 760 or higher. Most lenders require a score of at least 620 to qualify for a conventional mortgage.3 If your FICO score is less than 620, you may be able to qualify for a non-conventional mortgage. However, you should expect to pay higher interest rates and fees. For example, you may be able to secure an FHA loan (one issued by a private lender but insured by the Federal Housing Administration) with a credit score as low as 580 if you can make a 3.5 percent down payment. And FHA loans are available to applicants with credit scores as low as 500 with a 10 percent down payment.4
Increase Your Credit Score
There's no quick fix for a low credit score, but the following steps will help you increase it over time.5
Make Payments on Time
At 35 percent, your payment history accounts for the most significant portion of your credit score. Therefore, it's crucial to get caught up on any late payments and make all of your future payments on time if you have trouble remembering to pay your bills on time, set up payment reminders through your online banking platforms, a free money management tool like Mint, or an app like BillMinder.
Avoid Applying for New Credit You Don't Need
New accounts will lower your average account age, which could negatively impact your length of credit history. Also, each time you apply for credit, it can result in a slight decrease in your credit score. The exception to this rule? If you don't have any credit cards or any credit accounts, you should open an account to establish a credit history. Remember to use it responsibly and pay it off in full each month. If you need to shop for a new credit account, for example, a car loan, complete your loan applications within a short period. FICO attempts to distinguish between a search for a single loan and applications to open several new credit lines by the window during which inquiries occur.
Pay Down Credit Cards
When you pay off your credit cards and other revolving credit, you lower your amounts owed or credit utilization ratio (ratio of account balances to credit limits). Some experts recommend starting with your highest-interest debt and paying it off first. Others suggest paying off your lowest balance first and then rolling that payment into your next-lowest balance to create momentum. Whichever method you choose, the first step is to list your credit card balances and then start tackling them individually. Make the minimum payments on all of your cards except one. Pay as much as possible on that card until it's paid in full, then cross it off your list and move on to the next card.
Debt
Interest Rate
Total Payoff
Minimum Payment
Credit Card 1
12.5%
$460
$18.40
Credit Card 2
18.9%%
$1,012
$40.48
Credit Card 3
3.11%
$6,300
$252
Avoid Closing Old Accounts
Closing an old account will not remove it from your credit report. It can hurt your score, raise your credit utilization ratio—since you'll have less available credit—and decrease your average length of credit history. Similarly, paying off a collection account will not remove it from your report. It remains on your credit report for seven years; however, the negative impact on your score will decrease over time.
Correct Errors on Your Report
Mistakes or fraudulent activity can negatively impact your credit score. That's why checking your credit report at least once yearly is a good idea. The Federal Trade Commission has instructions on its <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0151-disputing-errors-credit-reports">website</a> for disputing errors in your account. While raising your credit score may seem like a lot of effort, your hard work will pay off in the long run. Not only will it help you qualify for a mortgage, but a high credit score can also help you secure a lower interest rate on car loans and credit cards. You may even qualify for lower rates on insurance premiums.6
STEP 2: SAVE UP FOR A DOWN PAYMENT AND CLOSING COSTS
The next step in preparing for your home purchase is to save up for a down payment and closing costs.
Down Payment
When you purchase a home, you typically pay for a portion in cash (down payment) and take out a loan to cover the remaining balance (mortgage). Many first-time buyers wonder how much they must save for a down payment. The answer is … it depends. Generally speaking, the higher your down payment, the more you will save on interest and fees. For example, you will qualify for a lower interest rate and avoid paying for mortgage insurance if your down payment is at least 20% of the property's purchase price. But what if you can't afford to put down 20 percent? You must purchase private mortgage insurance (PMI) on a conventional loan if your down payment is less than 20 percent. PMI is insurance compensating your lender if you default on your loan.7 PMI will cost you between 0.3 and 1.5 percent of the mortgage amount each year.8 So, on a $100,000 loan, you can expect to pay between $300 and $1500 per year for PMI until your mortgage balance falls below 80 percent of the appraised value.9 For a conventional mortgage with PMI, most lenders will accept a minimum down payment of five percent of the purchase price.7. If a five percent down payment is still too high, an FHA-insured loan may be an option for you. Because the Federal Housing Administration guarantees them, FHA loans only require a 3.5 percent down payment if your credit score is 580 or higher.7 The downside of getting an FHA loan? You'll be required to pay an upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP) of 1.75 percent of the total loan amount and an annual MIP of between 0.80 and 1.05 percent of your loan balance on a 30-year note. Certain limitations exist on the types of loans and properties that qualify.10 Various other government-sponsored programs are also created to assist home buyers. For example, veterans and current Armed Forces members may be eligible for a VA-backed loan requiring a $0 down payment.7 Consult a mortgage lender about what options are available to you.
Type
Minimum Down
Additional Fees
Conventional Loan
20%
Qualify for the best rates, and no mortgage insurance is required.
Conventional Loan
5%
Must purchase private mortgage insurance costing 0.3 – 1.5% of mortgage annually.
FHA Loan
3.5%
Upfront mortgage insurance premium of 1.75% of loan amount and an annual fee of 0.8 – 1.05%.
Current Homeowners
You may have equity for your down payment on a new home if you're a current homeowner. We can help you estimate your expected return after selling your home and paying your mortgage. Contact us for a free evaluation!
Closing Costs
Closing costs should also be factored into your savings plan. These may include loan origination fees, discount points, appraisal fees, title searches, title insurance, surveys, and other expenses associated with purchasing your home. Closing costs vary but typically range between two to five percent of the purchase price.11. If you don't have the funds to pay these outright at closing, you can often add them to your mortgage balance and pay them over time. However, this means you'll have a higher monthly payment and pay more over the long term because you'll pay interest on the fees.
STEP 3: ESTIMATE YOUR HOME PURCHASING POWER
Once you have the required credit score, savings for a down payment, and a list of all your outstanding debt obligations via your credit report, you can assess whether you are ready and able to purchase a home. It's essential to know how much you can reasonably afford—and how much you'll be able to borrow—to see if homeownership is within reach. Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is one of the main factors mortgage companies use to determine how much they are willing to lend you. Given your current financial situation, it can help you gauge whether your home-purchasing goals are realistic. Your DTI ratio is essentially a comparison of your housing expenses and other debt versus your income. There are two different DTI ratios that lenders consider:
Front-End Ratio
This is also called the housing ratio, which is the percentage of your income that would go toward monthly housing expenses, including your mortgage payment, private mortgage insurance, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and association dues.12. To calculate your front-end DTI ratio, a lender will add up your expected housing expenses and divide it by your gross monthly income (income before taxes). The maximum front-end DTI ratio for most mortgages is 28 percent. For an FHA-backed loan, this ratio must not exceed 31 percent.13
Back-End Ratio
The back-end ratio considers all of your monthly debt obligations: your expected housing expenses PLUS credit card bills, car payments, child support or alimony, student loans, and any other debt on your credit report.12. To calculate your back-end ratio; a lender will tabulate your expected housing expenses and other monthly debt payments and divide it by your gross monthly income (income before taxes). The maximum back-end DTI ratio for most mortgages is 36 percent. For an FHA-backed loan, this ratio must not exceed 41 percent.13
Home Affordability Calculator
To understand how much home you can afford, visit the National Association of Realtors free <a href="https://www.realtor.com/mortgage/tools/affordability-calculator" target="_blank">Home Affordability Calculator</a>. This handy tool will help you determine your home purchasing power depending on your location, annual income, monthly debt, and down payment. It also offers a monthly mortgage breakdown that projects what you would pay each month in principal and interest, property taxes, and home insurance. The Home Affordability Calculator defaults to a back-end DTI ratio of 36 percent. Suppose the monthly cost estimate at that ratio is significantly higher than what you currently pay for housing. In that case, you must consider whether you can make up the difference each month in your budget. If not, you may want to lower your target purchase price to a more conservative DTI ratio. The tool enables you to scroll through higher and lower price points to see the impact on your monthly payments to identify your ideal price point. (Note: This tool only provides an estimate of your purchasing power. You must secure pre-approval from a mortgage lender to know your actual mortgage approval amount and monthly payment projections.)
Can I afford to buy my dream home?
Once you have a sense of your purchasing power, it's time to determine which neighborhoods and types of homes you can afford. Contacting a licensed real estate agent is the best way to resolve this. We help homeowners like you every day and can send you a comprehensive list of homes within your budget that meet your specific needs if there are homes within your price range and target neighborhoods that meet your criteria—congratulations! It's time to begin your <a href="https://www.truesouthcoastalhomes.com/buyers/">home search</a>. If not, you may need to continue saving up for a larger down payment … or adjusting your search parameters to find homes that fit within your budget. We can help you determine the right course for you.
The above references an opinion and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be financial advice. Consult a financial professional for advice regarding your individual needs.2018-01-20T13:36:00-07:002023-04-05T07:49:47-07:00Kim Bauman