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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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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Wednesday, July 26, 2023 / by Ana Baldner
Cocoa Village, a hidden gem nestled along Florida's Space Coast, has a captivating history that dates back to its early days. In this article, we embark on a journey through time, uncovering how Cocoa Village has evolved and thrived since its humble beginnings. From being a trading post to becoming a vibrant community, Cocoa Village has undergone remarkable growth and transformation over the years.
The Birth of Cocoa Village
In the late 1800s, Cocoa Village emerged as a small settlement favored for its picturesque location along the Indian River. Early settlers were drawn to its natural beauty and abundant resources, laying the foundation for what would become a prosperous community.
Growth as a Trading Hub
As the village grew, it soon flourished as a crucial trading hub for the region's citrus and fishing industries. The bustling waterfront and strategic location made Cocoa Village a center of commerce, attracting merchants and traders from near and far.
Preservation of Historica. ...
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Wednesday, March 15, 2023 / by Ana Baldner
Spring is a season of renewal and rejuvenation, a time when we shake off the winter blues and prepare ourselves for the warmer months ahead. It’s also the perfect time to do a deep clean of our homes and get rid of any clutter and dirt that may have accumulated over the winter. To help you get started, here is your ultimate spring cleaning checklist for 2023.
Declutter
The first step in any spring cleaning checklist is decluttering. Go through your home and get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This includes old clothes, books, and other items that are taking up valuable space in your home. Donate or sell anything that is still in good condition, and throw away anything that is beyond repair.
Dust and vacuum
Once you’ve decluttered your home, it’s time to start cleaning. Begin by dusting all surfaces, including shelves, windowsills, and furniture. Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to avoid spreading dust around the room. Next, vacuum all floors . ...
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