Sunday, September 28, 2025 / by Kelly Bruno
Congratulations! Your offer on that dream home in sunny Florida has been accepted. That's an exciting milestone, but the journey doesn't end there. As a Realtor who's guided countless buyers through the Florida real estate process, I know the post-acceptance phase can feel a bit overwhelming with all the moving parts. Don't worry—I'm here to break it down into clear, actionable steps. In this post, we'll cover the key things you'll need to do right away, focusing on the earnest money deposit, scheduling inspections, and making your formal loan application. By understanding these, you'll navigate the process with confidence and keep your path to closing smooth and stress-free.
1. Make the Earnest Money Deposit: Locking in Your Commitment
Once your offer is accepted, the first order of business is to submit your earnest money deposit (EMD). This is essentially a good-faith payment that shows the seller you're serious about buying the property. In Florida, the EMD is typica; ...
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Wednesday, September 3, 2025 / by Katy Foster
When buying a home in Florida, one of the most important hurdles to clear is the 4-point inspection. This inspection focuses on four major systems:
Roof, Electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning), and Plumbing. Insurance companies require these items to be in acceptable condition before they’ll issue a policy. If there are problems in any of these areas, it can delay—or even derail—a closing.
Why the 4-Point Inspection Matters
Without a clean 4-point inspection, you typically can’t get homeowners insurance, and without insurance, you can’t close on a mortgage. That’s why buyers and sellers need to pay close attention to these systems during the homebuying process.
Handling Issues That Come Up
If problems show up during the inspection, all hope isn’t lost. Sometimes repairs can be negotiated to be done after closing. For example, roofs are a common sticking point. Because many roofers are booked weeks in advan. ...
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buyer tips, strategy
Sunday, August 10, 2025 / by Kelly Bruno
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying or Selling a Home
Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make, and it’s easy to stumble into pitfalls that can cost you time, money, or peace of mind. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, avoiding these common mistakes can make the process smoother and more successful. Here’s a rundown of key missteps to steer clear of, with practical tips to keep you on track.
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home
1. Skipping Pre-Approval for a Mortgage
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is house hunting without knowing their budget. Without a mortgage pre-approval, you risk falling in love with a home you can’t afford or losing a competitive bid because you’re not ready to act.
Tip: Get pre-approved by a lender before shopping. This shows sellers you’re serious and helps you narrow your search to homes within your financial rea; ...
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Wednesday, January 29, 2025 / by Ana Baldner
The real estate market is like a pendulum, constantly shifting between favoring sellers or buyers based on factors like interest rates, inventory levels, and economic conditions. For every advantage one side enjoys, the other faces a corresponding challenge. Whether you’re selling, buying, or doing both, understanding the dynamics of the market can help you navigate it effectively. Ultimately, the best time to make a move is when it aligns with your family’s needs and goals.
When the Market Favors Sellers
A “seller’s market” occurs when the demand for homes exceeds the supply. This imbalance often creates ideal conditions for sellers, but it’s not without its challenges.
Pros for Sellers
Higher Home Prices: In a seller’s market, buyers often compete for the limited inventory, driving up home prices. Sellers may receive multiple offers, sometimes well above the asking price, giving them the upper hand in negotiations. This can be particu. ...
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Friday, March 10, 2023 / by Ana Baldner
If you are buying or selling a home, chances are you will come across the term "home appraisal" at some point in the process. A home appraisal is a critical step in the real estate transaction process, as it can have a significant impact on the sale price of a property. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at home appraisals, what they are, and how they work.
What is a Home Appraisal?
A home appraisal is an unbiased estimate of the value of a property. The purpose of a home appraisal is to determine the fair market value of the property, which is the price that a willing buyer would pay and a willing seller would accept in an open market. Home appraisals are typically conducted by licensed and certified appraisers who have extensive knowledge of real estate and local market conditions.
How Does a Home Appraisal Work?
A home appraisal typically involves an inspection of the property, an analysis of comparable properties in the area, and an evaluation of market conditions. The. ...
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