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Why Kissimmee?

Why Kissimmee?

by | Oct 2, 2023 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Long Term Rental, Property Management, Renters

Why Kissimmee?

Kissimmee, FL

 

Location and Geography: Kissimmee, Florida, is a city located in Osceola County in the central part of the state. It is situated in the central region of the Florida Peninsula, approximately 18 miles (29 kilometers) south of downtown Orlando. Kissimmee’s geographical location in Central Florida places it in close proximity to popular tourist destinations like Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. This has contributed to Kissimmee’s role as a hub for visitors exploring the region’s theme parks and attractions. Additionally, its location near various lakes and outdoor recreational areas makes it an appealing destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities and natural beauty.

Housing Market: The Kissimmee housing market, like many areas in Florida, has experienced strong demand in recent years. This demand is driven by factors such as population growth, job opportunities, and the area’s appeal to both residents and investors. 

Communte and Transportation: Kissimmee, Florida, is well-connected in terms of transportation and offers various options for commuting within the city and to nearby areas. The city has a well-developed road infrastructure, with major highways including Interstate 4 (I-4) and the Florida Turnpike passing through or near the city. These highways provide convenient access to neighboring areas, including Orlando. The city operates a public bus service known as “LYNX,” which connects Kissimmee to various parts of Osceola County and the greater Orlando area. LYNX also offers several routes within the city itself.

Community and Lifestyle: Kissimmee is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population that includes residents from various ethnic backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in the city’s restaurants, festivals, and cultural events, making it a rich and inclusive community. Kissimmee is known for its family-friendly environment. The city offers excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous recreational activities suitable for families. Many neighborhoods have parks, playgrounds, and community centers. Whether you’re raising a family, retiring, or simply seeking an active and diverse community, Kissimmee offers a lifestyle that caters to a wide range of interests and preferences.

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.

 

Why Clermont Florida?

Why Clermont Florida?

by | Sep 25, 2023 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, Mortgages, Real Estate Components, Renters, Theme Parks and Attractions

Why Clermont Florida?

Clermont Florida

Location and Geography: Clermont is situated in central Florida, approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers) west of downtown Orlando. It is part of the Orlando-Kissimmee metropolitan area. The area around Clermont is characterized by numerous lakes, including Lake Minneola, Lake Louisa, Lake Minnehaha, and Lake Palatlakaha. These lakes contribute to the city’s scenic beauty and offer recreational opportunities such as boating and fishing. Overall, Clermont’s geography and location offer a mix of natural beauty and accessibility to the attractions of the greater Orlando area.

Housing Market: Clermont, like many parts of Florida, has experienced fluctuations in housing prices in recent years. Before 2022, there was generally an upward trend in home prices due to population growth and demand for housing in the area. However, prices can vary depending on the neighborhood and type of property (single-family homes, condos, etc.).

Commute and Transportation: Clermont is well-connected to the Orlando metropolitan area via several major highways, including Florida’s Turnpike, U.S. Route 27, and State Road 50 (also known as Colonial Drive). These roads provide easy access to Orlando, which is approximately a 30-45 minute drive away, depending on traffic. State Road 429, known as the Western Expressway, provides a direct link to the western suburbs of Orlando, offering an alternative route for commuters. LakeXpress is the public transportation system serving Lake County, including Clermont. It offers bus routes connecting various parts of the county, but the coverage and frequency may be more limited compared to larger urban areas.

Community and Lifestyle: Clermont is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Many families are attracted to the city because of its good schools, safe neighborhoods, and various recreational opportunities. The city’s geography, with its rolling hills and numerous lakes, makes it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents and visitors can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. The South Lake Trail, in particular, is a popular spot for walking, running, and cycling. The city has a variety of parks, sports fields, and recreational facilities for both children and adults. Lakefront Park in downtown Clermont is a popular gathering spot and offers a beach, playgrounds, and events.

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.

 

Get to know more about The Four Corners area

Get to know more about The Four Corners area

by | 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

    Just listed 333 LAKE HOWARD DR in Winter Haven

    by | 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
    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

    Real Estate Market report- July 2023

    by | 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

     

    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. 
    10 Steps to Purchasing a New-Construction House

    10 Steps to Purchasing a New-Construction House

    by | Aug 8, 2023 | Blog, Buyers, Homeowners, News, Real Estate News

    10 Steps to Purchasing a New-Construction House

    10 Steps to Purchasing a New-Construction House

    Purchasing most things in life is usually straightforward – just add them to your cart and pay with a credit card. However, when it comes to buying a home, the process becomes understandably more intricate. This complexity is particularly true if you’re looking to purchase a brand-new home, as it involves a distinct set of steps and considerations.

    While the process of buying a new-construction home shares similarities with purchasing an existing house, there are several notable distinctions. With new-construction homes now accounting for approximately one-third of the U.S. housing inventory, it has become an attractive option that many prospective buyers will undoubtedly contemplate.

    To provide you with a glimpse of what lies ahead, let’s explore the step-by-step process of buying a new-construction home, along with valuable advice to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.

    1. Set a budget

    Before diving into the process of purchasing a new-construction home, the initial and crucial step for any prospective homebuyer is to assess their affordability. This becomes particularly significant as new-construction homes generally come with a higher upfront cost, with the median price currently standing at $493,000.

    Don Turner, the regional sales director of new homes at Realtor.com, emphasizes the importance of avoiding the allure of a home that surpasses both your needs and budget. He advises prospective buyers to be mindful of their income relative to their spending habits and establish clear guidelines to steer clear of this situation.

    2. Get preapproved for a mortgage

    Obtaining preapproval is a wise step to ascertain your purchasing capacity and effectively communicate this information to the builders you are exploring. Securing preapproval can be accomplished through various methods. One option is to apply online, where you can discover the loan amount you qualify for based on your present income and debt.

    During the lending process, lenders will request financial documentation from you. Therefore, it’s essential to be prepared with your bank records and pay stubs ready to go. Having these documents readily available will help expedite the process and ensure a smoother experience.

    It’s important to remember that obtaining preapproval from a lender doesn’t obligate you to proceed with them. On the contrary, it is highly recommended to explore different options and compare preapproval offers from at least three lenders. This way, you can ensure you are securing the most favorable terms and the best overall deal for your situation.

    3. Choose a location

    Selecting the ideal community and location for your new-construction home is a critical aspect of the process, as not every community will be a perfect fit for every buyer. It’s essential to carefully consider your preferences and needs to ensure you find a community that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and requirements.

    For instance, if you have a young family, your criteria for a new home will undoubtedly differ from those of a homebuyer in search of a 55+ neighborhood with HOA activities tailored for retirees. Each buyer’s preferences and priorities will shape their quest for the ideal home and community.

    Landers proposes a helpful exercise called the “what matters most” ranking, which assists in refining your area search. In this exercise, prioritize the following factors from one to twelve based on their significance to you, and utilize the list as a guiding reference for making informed location decisions:

    1. Travel/commute times
    2. Distance to family/friends
    3. School district quality/higher education
    4. Access to nature/parks/lakes
    5. Availability of community clubhouse/social areas
    6. Walking trails/sidewalks
    7. Outdoor recreation (e.g., tennis/pickleball courts, playgrounds)
    8. Neighborhood pool
    9. Fitness center
    10. Pet friendliness
    11. Proximity to shopping/dining/entertainment
    12. Nearby health care/medical facilities

    4. Hire a real estate agent

    While it’s technically possible to acquire a new-construction home without representation, having the right real estate agent can prove to be an invaluable asset. They can provide you with crucial guidance and support, helping you identify the perfect fit in a new home and community that aligns with your preferences and needs.

    It’s essential to remember that the on-site agent you encounter at a new-construction office represents the builder’s interests. As a savvy homebuyer, it’s prudent to engage your own agent to join the process. Having your agent by your side will enable you to negotiate effectively and ensure you have proper protection throughout the transaction, safeguarding your best interests.

    An excellent buyer’s agent possesses the ability to thoroughly review contracts before you commit, ensuring you don’t unknowingly agree to terms that solely favor the builder. Additionally, in numerous instances, the builder will cover your agent’s commission as an expression of gratitude for directing your business to them. This arrangement can be highly advantageous, providing you with professional guidance and protection throughout the buying process at no direct cost to you.

    Landers advises that before hiring an agent, it’s essential to conduct thorough due diligence.

    5. Shop home builders

    Just like when selecting a real estate agent, it’s crucial to find a homebuilder with a strong reputation. Take the time to review their online feedback and testimonials. Additionally, closely examine the floor plans they provide. Ensuring that the builder offers floor plans that align with your family’s current requirements and future growth needs is essential for making a wise decision.

    There are other important factors to consider as well. Given that finances often play a significant role for new-construction buyers, it’s essential to thoroughly compare and contrast the builder incentives that are being offered. Taking the time to evaluate these incentives will help you make a well-informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and priorities.

    It’s advantageous to find a builder that provides buyer incentives, such as special financing deals or assistance with closing costs. Additionally, if you come across a builder offering complimentary upgrades in the home, such as upgraded cabinets, appliances, or improved flooring, these perks can be significant wins for the customer.

    Consider posing the following questions as well:

    • What are the HOA dues? Are they monthly or annual? What do they cover as far as amenities, activities, and programs?
    • Can guests use the community pool, fitness center, and other amenities?
    • What is the community pet policy?
    • Do you offer a new home warranty? If so, what does it cover?
    • What are the average utility bills and other associated costs of home ownership in the community?

    6. Decide whether to build or buy move-in ready

    Spec homes are constructed, or at least initiated, without having a buyer contract in place and can be found in different stages of construction. When the home is completed or nearly finished, it may also be referred to as “move-in ready” or “quick move-in” (QMI), usually available for occupancy within three months. However, it’s worth noting that each builder may have its own interpretation of what “quick” entails.

    “Build from scratch” entails commencing construction from the ground up after you finalize the contract. Generally, the process of building a home from scratch takes around 6.5 months, though this timeline can significantly vary depending on the builder. To gain clarity, it is essential to inquire about the specific timeline from the builder you are considering. Buyers who can patiently wait during this period may enjoy the advantage of having more control over various design decisions. This control may encompass aspects like the home’s layout, finishes, and other personalized details, making it a potentially rewarding choice for those seeking a customized living space.

    To avoid any confusion, it’s crucial for homebuyers to recognize the significant distinction between a build-from-scratch home offered by a production builder in a planned community and a “custom home.” In the case of a custom home, you take on full responsibility for every aspect, which includes purchasing the land, engaging an architect, obtaining construction loans, handling city permits, and more. Building a truly custom home can be a lengthier process, sometimes taking up to two years to complete due to the extensive level of personalization involved.

    7. Sign a builder contract

    Based on the type of home you select, the subsequent step involves signing a contract. If you opt for a move-in-ready home, the sales process will resemble a typical real estate transaction for an existing house. You make a down payment, move in, and commence with monthly mortgage payments.

    On the other hand, if you lean towards a build-from-scratch situation, the financing process will differ. When you sign a builder contract, there will likely be a required deposit, typically ranging from $1,000 to $2,000. The good news is that “most builders use this deposit as a credit toward the purchase price of the home,” according to Turner.

    Within the contract, the projected completion timeline should be specified. This is also an opportune moment to seek clarification on how unforeseen issues during construction will be handled. For instance, what recourse do you have if supply chain delays impact the construction schedule, and how will any changes be communicated to you?

    To ensure you’re protected, it’s advisable to have your real estate agent review the contract. Additionally, seeking legal counsel to review the agreement and all addendums before signing can provide an added layer of protection.

    8. Prepare to move in

    If you plan to sell your current home before moving into your new build, it’s essential to seek advice from your real estate agent regarding the optimal timing to put your current home on the market. Waiting too long might result in a situation with dual mortgages, so proper planning is crucial. However, in the event that you sell your current home before your new-construction home is completed, you may need to arrange for interim housing and storage for your belongings during the transition. This aspect adds an additional consideration to the purchase of a new-construction home.

    Furthermore, prospective buyers should refrain from making significant purchases like buying new furniture or a car during the interim period while their home is being built. Such actions can negatively impact their credit score and potentially jeopardize their mortgage approval. Practicing financial caution during this time is essential to ensure a smooth and successful home buying process.

    9. Have your new home inspected, and do a final walk-through

    Despite something being new, it doesn’t guarantee absolute perfection. Even if your new-construction home comes with a home warranty, it remains essential to conduct an inspection before officially taking ownership.

    Throughout the construction process, new-construction homes undergo inspections by local municipalities, and before move-in, these groups provide a final certificate of occupancy (CO) to ensure compliance with regulations. However, it’s advisable to hire your own home inspector to ensure that everything meets your standards.

    Before moving in, you should also be granted the opportunity to perform a final walk-through of your home. During this walk-through, you can create a “punch list” of items for the builder to address, typically consisting of minor issues such as paint drips and scuffs on floor tiles, ensuring that your new home is in pristine condition.

    10. Close on your mortgage and move in

    Once your new-construction home is finally complete, the builder will likely be eager to close the deal and have you move in swiftly. This is one reason why many builders prefer when homebuyers work with their preferred lenders; it helps ensure a smooth and timely transfer of ownership.

    When you receive the go-ahead to proceed, be prepared to act promptly. At that stage, you’ll be expected to make the full down payment (minus your initial deposit) and commence making monthly mortgage payments to your lender moving forward. Being prepared and responsive will facilitate a seamless transition into your new home.

    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.

    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.