Sunday, February 1, 2015

Rules for Buying or Selling a Home in Florida (or any other place).

The below rules for buying a home or selling a home, although not all-inclusive,  can serve as a good starting point for anyone moving to Brevard County, Florida.
  • The better the view, the higher the price.  It does not matter what the view consists of specifically (water, preservation area, ocean, pond, etc.).   When it comes to condos add this as well "The higher the floor, the higher the price. " 
  • "As is" does not always mean "as is."   Sellers will sometimes negotiate a price downward after the inspection reveals issues.  They may make some repairs to close the deal (think, a bird in the hand!).  They may even credit some money at closing to make repairs. 
  • Gated does not mean secure unless you have a guard on duty.    Having a gated entry gives a homeowner a nice warm feeling but people can still get into your community. 
  • The outside of a house is almost always an indicator of how well the inside is maintained.  If the yard is neglected, paint is fading, plants are dead it is quite likely the inside will show neglect. 
  • Golf course direct is more expensive than "in a golf course community."  If you must have a home on/near the green or fairway you will pay more than if it is on the other side of the street in the same community. 
  • A new coat of paint will not change the zip code.   Check the crime statistics, school performance, commute times.  The house may look great but it will always be location, location, location especially when you get ready to sell in a few years. 
  • Orange and blue, garnet and gold, or any other school color palette will not sell a house except to an alumnus, maybe.  Beige, neutral, non-personal sells.  
  • Some words are the kiss of death.  Some words appearing in real estate ads like cozy, cute, TLC, fixer upper, compact, charmer and a few others should not be taken literally!  
  • The price is low for a reason.  People do not sell very many things including a house for a significant discount.  There is always a reason for the low price and it is usually because of condition, location, poor view, etc.
  •  Do not believe everything you read - or hear - period!