Get to know more about The Four Corners area

by Marlayna | Sep 18, 2023 | Blog, Buyers, Homes, Villas and Condos, Investment Property in Florida, Long Term Rental, New Construction, Property Management, Real Estate Components, Renters, Sellers, Theme Parks and Attractions

Get to know more about The Four Corners area

Why move to the Four corners area

Lake County

Location and Geography: Understand the town’s location, geography, and surroundings. Consider factors like proximity to major cities, access to natural amenities (e.g., mountains, beaches), and the local climate.

Housing Market: Investigate the town’s housing market, including rental and purchase prices. Determine the type of housing that suits your needs and budget. Check out properties for sell in the area Resale Properties New construction

Commute and Transportation: Calculate your daily commute time and transportation options. Determine if public transportation, walking, or biking is feasible, and assess the town’s traffic patterns

Community and Lifestyle: Explore the town’s culture, lifestyle, and community. Consider your interests, hobbies, and how well they align with what the town offers. Check out our Blog for future events

Orange County

Location and Geography: The county seat is Orlando, which is also the largest city in Orange County. The county is known for its vibrant tourism industry, with popular attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. Orange County is also home to a diverse population and offers a range of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities.

Housing Market: It is a desirable location due to its proximity to popular attractions and a range of amenities. These factors have contributed to a steady demand for housing in the area.

Commute and Transportation: Orange County has an extensive network of roads and highways, including Interstate 4 (I-4) and the Florida Turnpike, which provide convenient access to different parts of the county and beyond. Lynx is the public transportation system serving Orange County. It operates a network of buses that cover a wide range of routes throughout the county, including express routes to downtown Orlando. Lynx also offers a paratransit service for individuals with disabilities.

Community and Lifestyle: Orange County offers a vibrant community and a diverse lifestyle. The county is known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and numerous recreational opportunities such as a variety of outdoor activities, including water sports, golfing, hiking, and biking. Residents can enjoy exploring the county’s many parks, nature preserves, and lakes. Orange County is famous for its world-class theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. These attractions draw visitors from around the globe and provide residents with endless entertainment options.

Osceola County

Location and Geography: Osceola County is characterized by a mix of urban and rural areas. It is part of the greater Orlando metropolitan area and is known for its proximity to popular tourist destinations. The county is bordered by Lake Tohopekaliga to the west and the Kissimmee River to the east. It also encompasses parts of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, which offers recreational opportunities for boating and fishing. Osceola County has a diverse landscape, including wetlands, forests, and agricultural areas. The county’s location in Central Florida provides a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters.

Housing Market: Osceola county offers a range of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. The prices and availability of properties can vary depending on factors such as location, size, and amenities. Osceola County has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by factors such as its proximity to popular tourist destinations like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, as well as its strong job market. This growth has led to increased demand for housing in the area.

Commute and Transporation: Major highways that pass through or near Osceola County include Interstate 4 (I-4), which runs east-west and connects the county to Orlando and Tampa. State Road 417 (Central Florida GreeneWay) is a toll road that provides a convenient route for traveling north-south through the county. State Road 192 (Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway) is another major road that runs east-west and is known for its commercial areas and access to popular tourist destinations.

Community and Lifestyle: Osceola County offers a range of recreational activities and amenities. It is known for its natural beauty, with numerous lakes, parks, and outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy. The county also has a strong focus on sports and recreation, with facilities for golf, tennis, soccer, and more. Additionally, the county has a strong sense of community with various events, festivals, and cultural celebrations throughout the year. The local school system strives to provide quality education, and there are also higher education institutions in the area.

Polk County

Location and Geography: It encompasses a mix of urban areas, suburban communities, and rural regions. The county is known for its numerous lakes, with over 550 lakes dotting its landscape. The largest lake in Polk County is Lake Kissimmee. The county’s terrain features a combination of flatlands, rolling hills, and wetlands. Polk County is also home to various natural attractions, including state parks, wildlife preserves, and recreational areas. It offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation.

Housing Market: Polk County has had a diverse and competitive housing market. It is located in central Florida and offers a mix of urban and suburban areas. The county is known for its affordability compared to some neighboring counties, which can make it an attractive option for homebuyers.Factors such as population growth, economic conditions, and local amenities can influence the housing market in Polk County.

Commute and Transportation: Polk County is well-connected by a network of major highways, including Interstate 4 (I-4) that runs east-west through the county. Other important roadways include US Highway 27, US Highway 98, and State Road 60. Polk County offers public transportation services through the Citrus Connection. This includes fixed-route bus services that operate throughout the county, connecting various cities and communities.

Community and Lifestyle: The county is home to several cities and towns, including Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Haines City, each with its own unique charm and amenities. The county also hosts various cultural events, festivals, and community gatherings throughout the year. Education is a priority in Polk County, with a number of public and private schools serving the community. The county is also home to several higher education institutions, including Polk State College.

Ready to make a Move?

Bardell Real Estate are the experts in helping you with your selling, buying or renting needs near Orlando, Florida. Make your Disney area experience a forever memorable one. Call us now to speak to a real estate agent.

Just listed 333 LAKE HOWARD DR in Winter Haven

by Elsa Soto | Sep 16, 2023 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, Investment Property in Florida, Real Estate Components, Renters, Retirement / 55+, Sellers

Just listed 333 LAKE HOWARD DR in Winter Haven

Blog Post 8

333 Lake Howard Dr NW #204C, Winter Haven, FL

Click here to Get Directions

$ CLICK FOR CURRENT PRICE

2 BEDROOMS

2 BATHROOMS

387 sqft Lot

One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome Home!! This 55+ community, piece of paradise in the heart of Winter Haven, Florida will not disappoint! Entertaining will not be an issue with your upgraded kitchen and spacious living area boasting with tons of light. This condo originally had a 3rd bedroom but was converted to formal dining room. The spacious master bedroom offers an on-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and closet. Enjoy all the amenities Imperial Harbours has to offer such as swimming pool, fitness center, and a private dock for boating and fishing on Lake Howard connected to the chain of lakes. Conveniently located just minutes away from Winter Havens finest shopping, dining, and recreational activities. Don’t miss the opportunity to make it yours! Schedule your private tour today and start living the Florida lifestyle today.

Real Estate Market report- July 2023

by Elsa Soto | Aug 30, 2023 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, News, Real Estate News, Renters, Sellers

Real Estate Market report- July 2023

July Home Sale

2023-07-ehs-snapshot-infographic-08-22-2023-1000w-1500h

July’s interest rate was recorded at 6.8%, up slightly from 6.7% in June. This is the second-highest interest rate in Central Florida in 20 years. October 2022 had the highest interest rate in 20 years at 7.0%

- In ORRA’s new survey of Orlando REALTORS, 43% of respondents said that rising interest rates are the biggest challenge facing buyers, causing some buyers to wait out purchasing homes right now or look at lower price points.
Overall sales fell 8.7% from June to July. There were 2,852 sales in July, down from 3,124 sales in June. Sales in July 2023 were also 13.8% lower than July 2022, when there were 3,309 sales.
Inventory for July was recorded at 5,720, up 5.0% from June when inventory was recorded at 5,450.
- Low inventory was cited as the second biggest issue facing buyers in ORRA’s new survey.
The median home price for July was recorded at $380,000, down from $385,000 in June. This is the first month this year that median home price has fallen.
Median home price in July 2023 was extremely close to July 2022, when it was recorded at $380,900.
New listings fell 7.8% from June to July, with 3,413 new homes on the market in July, compared to 3,703 in June.
Homes spent an average of 39 days on the market (DOM) in July, down from 41 days in June. This is still 85.7% higher than July 2022 when homes spent an average of just 21 days on the market.
- Last year, 63% of Orlando REALTORS said clients were selling their homes in 10 days or less. This year, only 34% said clients are selling their homes in 10 days or less.
“Approaching the end of summer with interest rates at nearly their highest level in 20 years, we are seeing an impact on both buyers and sellers,” said Lisa Hill, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association President. “More homeowners are being locked into ‘golden handcuffs’ – where they’re choosing to stay in their current homes to keep their low mortgage rates, which could be 3% or lower – and more buyers are choosing to wait in hopes that rates go down.”

Market Snapshot

Interest rates increased from 6.7% in June to 6.8% in July. This is 27.7% higher than July 2022 when interest rates were 5.4%.
Pending sales fell, with 3,964 in June and 3,808 in July.
25 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 0.9% of all home sales in July. That represents a 10.7% decrease from June, when 28 distressed homes sold.

6 Signs You Should Sell Your Home

by Elsa Soto | Aug 2, 2023 | Blog, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, News, Real Estate News, Sellers

6 Signs You Should Sell Your Home

6 Signs You Should Sell Your Home

At some point, you might find yourself contemplating: Is it time to consider selling my house?

Based on data from the National Association of Realtors®, homeowners typically reside in a house for approximately ten years before deciding to sell. Does this duration strike you as surprisingly brief or excessively lengthy? In reality, the length of time varies significantly among individuals, primarily influenced by their specific reasons for selling.

The choice to sell your home can stem from various reasons. It might be a well-pondered decision you’ve contemplated for a considerable duration, or it could be a spontaneous choice that emerged in the spur of the moment.

A swift decision to sell a home may arise from a sudden defining event like a transfer, death, or divorce. Conversely, in many instances, the process is more gradual, influenced by various factors such as children leaving the nest, a longing to be nearer to family, retirement plans, or the aspiration to reside in a smaller, larger, newer, or different neighborhood. Typically, this type of decision undergoes a gestation period lasting around two to four years.

Numerous common reasons, both financial and emotional, drive us to sell our current homes. Sometimes, these reasons can catch us by surprise. If you’re contemplating whether it’s the right time to list your house, here are some unmistakable signs indicating it’s time to sell, even if you haven’t reached the ten-year mark.

It’s a seller’s market

Let’s begin with one of the most evident motives for selling: It’s currently a seller’s market, offering you the opportunity to reap a substantial profit from your property. You need to gauge the key indicators of a strong seller’s market.

Here are a few indicators to watch for: First, observe an uptick in the price per square foot for real estate in your area. Second, notice a decrease in the amount of time properties stay on the market. Third, keep an eye on the increased brokerage activity in your neighborhood. If your location is particularly in demand, you might even receive a letter or a visit from a listing agent eager to assist you in capitalizing on the current market momentum.

If any of these conditions hold true in your area, it might be worth considering selling your property.

Local homes are selling for a lot

To monitor comparable home prices in your neighborhood, make sure to check online real estate listings and pay attention to the “recently sold” flyers you receive in your mailbox.

If other houses on your street with the same bedroom/bathroom count as yours are selling for a price that would leave you more than content, it could be the right moment to consider moving on.

Another indicator of a thriving home sales market is the correlation between asking prices and sale prices. In a seller’s market, if prospective buyers swiftly make offers, matching or even exceeding the sellers’ asking prices, it becomes evident. As a result, you may receive an offer from a buyer that you simply can’t turn down.

You’re financially stressed

Not all individuals sell their real estate solely to boost their financial reserves. Some homeowners sell their property because they underestimated their ongoing housing costs and seek relief from their mortgage burden. Others choose to capitalize on their equity for various purposes beyond financial gain.

if your property taxes or mortgage payments have become overwhelming, the most viable solution could be to sell your current home and seek a more affordable option. Opting to sell is a better alternative than grappling with a burdensome mortgage loan, which could potentially lead to the risk of foreclosure.

In order to ensure financial ease, it is recommended that your monthly housing expenses, encompassing mortgage interest, principal, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and any applicable HOA or condo fees, should not surpass 28% of your gross monthly income.

Prior to selling your home with the aim of reducing your monthly living expenses, it is crucial to ensure that you can find another home available for rent or purchase within your budget. Additionally, verify that you meet the qualifications for a loan at the prevailing interest rates when you decide to make the transition.

You’ve outgrown your home

The starter home that once suited you while anticipating your first child may no longer be suitable now that you have three preteens and pets. Although it may be bittersweet to part with the memories you’ve created in your current home, if it is causing you more stress than comfort, Shayanfekr suggests it might be time to take the leap and consider selling the property.

Other life changes, such as death, serious illness, or divorce, can also be significant factors influencing the decision to sell a home. These emotionally challenging experiences may create a strong need for change. Another factor to consider is relocation due to a new job opportunity.

You’re tired of home maintenance

On average, homeowners spend approximately $2,000 per year on maintenance services. This expense covers scheduled services like landscaping, snow removal, septic service, private trash and recycling, as well as housecleaning—excluding any unexpected repair costs.

Tired of witnessing these payments gradually draining your bank account? You have the option to sell your current property and consider purchasing lower-maintenance real estate, like a condo or new construction.

Alternatively, you might want to explore the possibility of renting, where a landlord can handle concerns such as leaky pipes and other property-related hassles, allowing you to experience a more carefree living situation.

You’ve built up enough home equity

Selling your home too soon, especially if you have a mortgage, might not allow you to build substantial equity beyond the initial down payment. During the initial stages, a significant portion of your mortgage payments mainly goes towards covering interest expenses.

In reality, unless the housing market experiences a significant boom (as mentioned earlier), selling your home could lead to a financial loss. In some cases, you might even end up owing more than what you can acquire from the sale, considering the closing costs involved.

Keep in mind that selling your home isn’t cost-free. You’ll need to allocate funds to cover various expenses related to hiring a real estate agent, the closing process, and, naturally, the purchase of another home.

Staying in your current home for at least five years, unless you have an urgent need to move. Rapidly selling can send potential buyers a negative message.

Buyers become uneasy when it seems like you’re selling too soon. They may wonder what’s wrong with the house or why you’re leaving so quickly. It can lead them to imagine various negative scenarios, like potential structural issues, troublesome neighbors, or other concerning issues.

Another reason to reconsider selling is if you don’t meet the qualifications to avoid paying capital gains tax on your profit from the sale. Typically, you can exclude the gain if you’ve owned and lived in the home for at least two of the past five years. Selling before the two-year mark, without qualifying for any exceptions, could result in a costly mistake. Paying capital gains tax might significantly reduce the equity you originally planned to have from the sale.

But beware of snap decisions

Certainly, there are no guarantees that selling will be the best long-term option for you. Take your time to carefully consider whether selling is the right decision for you, and collaborate with your real estate agent to analyze the local home sales market before setting the price for your home. Underpricing could lead to a buyer snagging it for too cheaply, while overpricing may deter the right buyer from considering it.

Ultimately, selling your home is a deeply personal decision. Prioritize what will help you live a fulfilling life, even if it’s not necessarily “happily ever after,” but rather “happily for now.”

Experts in Residential Real Estate in Orlando

If you are BUYING or SELLING real estate it’s quiet often the single most important financial decision you make. For the last 30 years we have helped clients buying and selling property in Orlando and the surrounding areas. Put simply, this means the knowledge and expertise accumulated over this time ensures our clients get the best representation possible.

Our experienced agents will help and guide you through the entire process providing valuable support every step of the way.

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Beautifully Updated Haines City Home Just Listed

by Elsa Soto | Aug 1, 2023 | Blog, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, New Listing, News, Property for Sale in Orlando

Blog Post 1

2790 Kokomo Loop, Haines City, FL

Click here to Get Directions

$535000

4 Beds – 3 Baths – 7841 sqft Lot

Welcome to your beautifully updated dream home in the sought-after gated golf community at Southern Dunes. This stunning property sits on a spacious newly fenced corner lot, exuding pride of ownership from the moment you arrive on the beautifully paved driveway. Step into the immaculate garage, boasting star treatment with durable epoxy flooring. As you enter the front door, you are welcomed into a tastefully tiled hallway which provides convenient access to the garage, where you’ll find the washer and dryer. The formal living and dining room areas have beautiful wooden flooring bringing warmth and depth to these rooms. At the heart of the home lies the modern, fully equipped kitchen, with lustrous granite countertops and matching backsplash perfectly complemented with stainless steel appliances. An abundance of storage and counterspace, making it perfect for culinary enthusiasts and entertainers alike. Natural light floods the family room and adjoining dinette and kitchen area through beautiful French doors, enhanced by a transom window, providing a seamless transition to your private oasis. The expansive master bedroom boasts patio sliding doors with direct access to the pool area. Prepare to be pampered in the master bathroom suite, thoughtfully designed with a walk-in shower, indulgent garden tub, and a generously-sized walk-in closet. The built-in vanity offers ample counter space and under sink storage. On the opposite side of the family room, you’ll find additional bedrooms, including a second ensuite with a walk-in shower, ensuring utmost comfort and convenience. Adjacent to the other guest bedrooms lies the beautifully updated family bathroom, boasting contemporary style and functionality. Step onto the newly laid polyaspartic coated pool deck, a striking blend of practicality and beauty, leading to the beautifully resurfaced pool—an absolute stunner! The small, covered lanai area provides a shady retreat for al fresco dining. Located within one of Florida’s top-rated golf courses, the Clubhouse offers onsite dining, bringing added convenience and leisure to your doorstep. Grocery stores, restaurants, medical facilities are all close by.

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Remarkable Home in Orlando Just Listed

by Elsa Soto | Jul 27, 2023 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Homes, Villas and Condos, New Listing, News, Property for Sale, Property for Sale in Orlando

Blog Post 1

9332 Everwood St, Orlando, FL

Click here to Get Directions

$479000

4 Beds – 2 Baths – 0.32 acres Lot

Welcome to your dream home in the sought-after Deerwood community in Orlando! Mature trees line the streets, offering a picturesque setting and a sense of stability. You’ll appreciate the friendly atmosphere that comes from living in an established neighborhood where neighbors quickly become friends. This exceptional property goes above and beyond, offering a wide array of features that cater to your every need and desire. From a refreshing inground swimming pool in a fenced, south facing rear yard to ample storage space for your outdoor toys this home has it all. Formal living and dining rooms provide plenty of space to entertain while the kitchen and family room, complete with feature brick fireplace and transom windows offer an extensive area to relax with lots of natural light. Enjoy the beauty of Florida’s weather year-round with a large Florida room that seamlessly blends the indoors with the outdoors. This versatile space allows you to bask in natural sunlight while being protected from the elements, making it perfect for entertaining guests or simply relaxing with a good book. For those who value a dedicated workspace, this home offers a home office where you can focus with minimal distractions and a beautiful view over the pool and mature landscaping. Experience the perfect blend of spacious living, community charm, excellent schools, and the convenience of proximity to UCF and downtown Orlando. Schedule a viewing today and see all that this property has to offer! New roof in 2022.

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