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Maintaining a Vacation Home: Essential Tips for Owners 

Maintaining a Vacation Home: Essential Tips for Owners 

Owning a vacation home can be a dream, but it requires proper maintenance and care to avoid costly issues. Unlike primary residences, vacation homes often remain vacant for extended periods, which can lead to problems if not properly managed. Plumbing failures, storm damage, and pest infestations are just a few of the potential issues. 

To ensure a hassle-free experience, it’s important for vacation homeowners, especially first-time buyers, to consider key maintenance tasks. Here are some essential tips for keeping your vacation property in top shape: 

  1. Work from a Checklist 
    Use a detailed checklist to manage home maintenance. Having local service professionals who can check on the home during inclement weather is vital. For example, in snowy areas, a service can clear ice dams and plow driveways, while in hurricane-prone regions, shutters and furniture can be secured. Key systems like heating and water should be turned off when the home is unoccupied. 
  1. Embrace Smart Home Technology 
    Smart devices can help monitor your property remotely. Apps like Nest and Arlo allow you to track temperatures and security, while tools like MyCentriq simplify home maintenance management. These technologies ensure you can stay on top of potential issues, even when you’re away. 
  1. Hire a Property Manager 
    Consider hiring a property manager to oversee routine maintenance and check-ups, especially after storms. Many property management services offer packages that include security checks, appliance monitoring, and even concierge services, giving homeowners peace of mind. 
  1. Review Insurance Coverage 
    Insurance for vacation homes is similar to primary residences, but coverage may differ due to the increased risks of vacancy. Vacation homes are more prone to damage, vandalism, and long-term issues that go unnoticed. It’s crucial to understand your policy and consider additional measures like automatic water shutoff alarms. 
  1. Plan Before Buying 
    Before purchasing a vacation home, it’s wise to rent first and explore the area to understand the upkeep involved. If you plan to rent out your property, make sure to check for any HOA or local restrictions regarding rentals. 

With these preventive measures, vacation homeowners can enjoy their property without the stress of unexpected problems, ensuring their investment remains a source of relaxation, not headaches. 

For more information: https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/home-and-design/help-homeowners-maintain-their-vacation-homes 

Real Estate Outlook for 2025: Key Trends and Predictions

Real Estate Outlook for 2025: Key Trends and Predictions

Real Estate Outlook for 2025: Key Trends and Predictions

The housing market has faced challenges in recent years, but brighter days may be ahead. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), shared an optimistic forecast for 2025 and 2026, predicting an uptick in home sales and more stable mortgage rates. Check out the link to find out more:  https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/whats-next-for-the-2025-housing-market 

Rising Home Sales

Yun expects home sales to rise in the next few years. He predicts existing home sales will increase by 9% in 2025 and 13% in 2026, with new home sales also seeing growth. The improving economy, job gains, and increasing home inventory are all contributing factors to the positive outlook. 

Mortgage Rates to Stabilize

Mortgage rates are expected to moderate, though not drop drastically. While recent Fed rate cuts may offer some relief, Yun cautioned that high budget deficits could prevent mortgage rates from returning to low levels seen in previous years. However, the “locked-in” effect of homeowners with low mortgage rates will gradually ease over time, creating opportunities for buyers and sellers. 

Home Price Increases to Slow

After years of rapid price growth, home prices are predicted to rise slowly in the next few years. The NAR forecasts a 2% increase in median home prices for both 2025 and 2026. While home equity gains have benefited current homeowners, affordability remains a challenge for many buyers. 

Changing Buyer Demographics

The profile of homebuyers is shifting. All-cash buyers have become more common, accounting for 26% of home sales in the past year. First-time homebuyers are older, with a median age of 38, and many are relying on financial help from family or drawing from savings and assets. Multigenerational households are also on the rise, driven by cost-saving efforts and the need to care for aging parents. Additionally, single women buyers outpace single men, with women making up 24% of the home-purchase market. 

Looking Ahead

Overall, while challenges persist, the outlook for the housing market is improving. With rising job numbers, moderating mortgage rates, and changing buyer trends, 2025 could be a year of recovery and growth for the real estate market. Real estate professionals should prepare for a busy year ahead, as more Americans may be ready to make a move. 

https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/whats-next-for-the-2025-housing-market 

Property Management Spotlight: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of your garbage disposal

Property Management Spotlight: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of your garbage disposal

Property Management Spotlight: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of your garbage disposal

Keeping up with your home’s garbage disposal might seem like a small task, but it has huge benefits. As our property expert Lucy Hinson explains, regular upkeep of this important kitchen appliance has huge benefits. 

While it might not cross your mind often, your garbage disposal is an essential appliance in your kitchen that deserves some care and attention. While not overly expensive, preventative care of your disposal can save you from costly plumbing issues in the future. After all, your garbage disposal is connected to your home’s plumbing system. When you grind food waste, it travels through a network of pipes—so it’s important to ensure your disposal is functioning properly to avoid clogging or damage. 

Here are some key tips to help keep your garbage disposal running smoothly: 

Run it Regularly

Using your garbage disposal frequently helps keep it in good working order. A well-used disposal is less likely to develop issues, as it keeps food waste moving through the system. 

Use Cold Water

Always run cold water while using your disposal. Cold water helps solidify any fats or oils, making it easier for the disposal to grind them up without causing clogs in the pipes. 

Avoid Large Food Chunks

To prevent overworking the motor, avoid putting large food pieces into the disposal. Cut larger items into smaller pieces before grinding.

Clean it Every Two Weeks

Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can cause odors and reduce efficiency. Clean your disposal at least once every two weeks to maintain its performance. 

Grind Thoroughly

Always ensure that the disposal has ground the food completely before turning it off. This prevents leftover debris from clogging the pipes. 

Keep Fibrous Foods Out

Certain foods like celery, corn husks, and potato peels can cause blockages because they tangle around the blades. Avoid putting these fibrous materials down the disposal. 

Skip the Bones and Eggshells

While it might seem tempting, bones and eggshells can damage the blades or cause clogs. They should never be put in the disposal.

By following these simple tips, you’ll help ensure your garbage disposal works efficiently for years to come, avoiding unnecessary plumbing headaches and costly repairs. 

If you have any questions about your rental properties or questions about rental homes,
how to get your homes listed to ReMax Heritage, feel free to reach out to our amazing
Property Manager, Lucy Hinson, at lucy@bardellrealestate.com.

Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: What You Need to Know

Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: What You Need to Know

Understanding Buyer Broker Agreements: What You Need To Know

Buying a home is a major life decision, and at RE/MAX Heritage, we believe that you should feel supported throughout the process. One of the ways we ensure this is through a Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA). This agreement helps clarify your relationship with your agent and guarantees that you receive the best possible guidance and support.

Why a Buyer Broker Agreement Matters

A Buyer Broker Agreement (BBA) is a straightforward contract between you and your RE/MAX Heritage agent. It confirms that your agent is working exclusively for you, ensuring that they are fully committed to helping you find the right property, negotiate effectively, and navigate the buying process smoothly. Without a BBA, there’s a chance that an agent’s responsibilities might be unclear, or they could represent both the buyer and the seller, which could create conflicts of interest. By signing a BBA, you make sure that your agent is focused solely on your interests.

Why a BBA is Especially Important in Today's Market

The real estate market can be unpredictable. Prices fluctuate, there’s strong competition for properties, and legal requirements are more detailed than they used to be. A Buyer Broker Agreement ensures you’re protected in this fast-moving environment. Recent changes in the industry, such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement, have made it even more important for buyers and sellers to be clear about their rights and responsibilities. At RE/MAX Heritage, we make sure you understand exactly how your agent will work for you by having this agreement in place.

The Benefits of a Buyer Broker Agreement at RE/MAX Heritage

When you sign a BBA with us, you’re not just agreeing to work with an agent—you’re securing several key advantages:
1. Clear Commitment

2. With a BBA, your agent is legally required to represent your interests. This ensures
that they’re fully focused on getting the best results for you.

3. Transparency
The agreement spells out exactly how your agent will be compensated and what their
responsibilities are. This way, there are no surprises along the way.

4. Guidance Throughout the Process
The home-buying process can be complex, but your RE/MAX Heritage agent will be there to
guide you every step of the way. From finding listings to negotiating prices, you’ll have
support when it matters most.

5. Stronger Negotiation Power
Your agent, committed to your interests through the BBA, will work hard to negotiate the
best terms for you, ensuring that you’re well-positioned in the market.

What Happens Without a BBA?

Without a Buyer Broker Agreement, your agent’s role may not be as clearly defined. This could lead to misunderstandings or missed opportunities. For example, if your agent is also representing the seller, their loyalties could be divided, potentially leaving you with less effective support. At RE/MAX Heritage, we believe in keeping things clear and simple. A BBA ensures that you know your agent is working for you, reducing any risk of confusion or unexpected costs.

Why the BBA Works for You at RE/MAX Heritage

At RE/MAX Heritage, we don’t just show homes—we work closely with you to make sure the buying process goes smoothly. The Buyer Broker Agreement is part of this commitment. It helps us create a clear plan so that you can move forward with confidence, knowing that your agent is always on your side. This agreement guarantees that you’re getting professional support, honest advice, and dedicated service from the start of your search all the way to the closing of your new home.

Buyer’s Journey

Remax Heritage Logo with transparent Background

Ending note:

As we approach the end of another year, we are reminded that real estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about building a life, creating a home, and connecting with our community. The market will continue to shift and change, but what remains constant is the importance of making thoughtful decisions that reflect where you are and where you want to go.

At ReMax Heritage, Bardell Real Estate team, our goal is to support you in more than just buying or selling a property—we’re here to help you navigate life’s transitions, big or small. Whether you’re considering your next move or simply looking to strengthen your place in this community, know that we’re here for you, with guidance, understanding, and the experience to help you move forward.

Whatever the rest of 2024 holds for you, let’s make the most of it—together, with purpose.

Real Estate Sales Report May 2024

Real Estate Sales Report May 2024

Real Estate Sales Report May 2024

Real Estate Sales Report May 2024

Existing-home sales slightly declined in May while the median sales price reached a record high, as reported by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Sales fell month-over-month in the South but remained stable in the Northeast, Midwest, and West. Year-over-year, the Midwest saw a rise in sales, whereas the Northeast, South, and West experienced declines.

Total existing-home sales, encompassing single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops, decreased by 0.7% from April, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.11 million in May. Compared to last year, sales dropped by 2.8% from 4.23 million in May 2023.

The NAR Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, stated that more inventory will eventually help boost home sales and tame home price gains in the upcoming months. Increased housing supply is expected to benefit consumers who want to see more properties before making purchasing decisions.

Total housing inventory at the end of May was 1.28 million units, marking a 6.7% increase from April and an 18.5% increase from one year ago (1.08 million). The unsold inventory is at a 3.7-month supply at the current sales pace, up from 3.5 months in April and 3.1 months in May 2023.

The median existing-home price for all housing types in May was $419,300, the highest ever recorded, up 5.8% from one year ago ($396,500). All four U.S. regions registered price gains.

Yun noted that home prices reaching new highs are creating a wider divide between those owning properties and those who wish to be first-time buyers. The mortgage payment for a typical home today is more than double that of homes purchased before 2020. Despite this, first-time buyers in the market understand the long-term benefits of owning.

REALTORS® Confidence Index According to the monthly REALTORS® Confidence Index, properties typically remained on the market for 24 days in May, down from 26 days in April but up from 18 days in May 2023.

First-time buyers accounted for 31% of sales in May, down from 33% in April but up from 28% in May 2023. NAR’s 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, released in November 2023, indicated that the annual share of first-time buyers was 32%.

All-cash sales made up 28% of transactions in May, unchanged from April but up from 25% a year ago. Individual investors or second-home buyers, who comprise many cash sales, purchased 16% of homes in May, the same as in April and up from 15% in May 2023. Distressed sales – foreclosures and short sales – represented 2% of sales in May, unchanged from both last month and the previous year.

Mortgage Rates According to Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.87% as of June 20, down from 6.95% the previous week but up from 6.67% a year ago.

Single-family and Condo/Co-op Sales Single-family home sales declined to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.71 million in May, down 0.8% from 3.74 million in April and 2.1% from the previous year. The median existing single-family home price was $424,500 in May, up 5.7% from May 2023. Existing condominium and co-op sales were unchanged from April, at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 400,000 units in May, but down 9.1% from one year ago (440,000 units). The median existing condo price was $371,300 in May, up 5.1% from the previous year ($353,300).

Regional Breakdown

  • Northeast: Existing-home sales were unchanged from April at an annual rate of 480,000, a 4% decline from May 2023. The median price was $479,200, up 9.2% from the previous year.
  • Midwest: Existing-home sales remained steady from April at an annual rate of 1 million, a 1% increase from a year ago. The median price was $317,100, up 6.4% from May 2023.
  • South: Sales fell 1.6% from April to an annual rate of 1.87 million in May, down 5.1% from the previous year. The median price was $374,300, up 3.6% from last year.
  • West: Sales in May were unchanged from April at an annual rate of 760,000, a 1.3% decrease from one year earlier. The median price was $632,900, up 5.5% from May 2023.

About the National Association of REALTORS® The National Association of REALTORS® is the largest trade association in America, representing 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark identifying a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

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: 850 AVE N SW, WINTER HAVEN, Florida

JUST LISTED: 850 AVE N SW, WINTER HAVEN, Florida

JUST LISTED: 850 AVE N SW, WINTER HAVEN, Florida

Blog Post 7

850 AVENUE N SW, WINTER HAVEN, FL

Click here to Get Directions

2 BEDROOMS
2 BATHROOMS
0.25 sqft Lot

Welcome Home!! Hoping for a large corner lot, no HOA, yet still be minutes from downtown? Then, you have found your new home!! Set on a spacious 10,000-square-foot lot, this property offers ample room for expansion and customization to suit your lifestyle. But, rest assured this home boasts of a new build! Brand new roof, sewer, underground plumbing, new floor with waterproof vinyl added throughout. An energy efficient a/c, tankless water heater, spray insulation have all been installed at the beginning of the year. The original cinder block outside walls were built to withstand a hurricane by the original builder, but also buffers any noise of the outside world. You will enjoy a quiet home, even at the edge of a bustling town. Now let’s talk about the best part of your new home – a large new kitchen with soft-close wood cabinets, including a pantry, brand new stainless steel appliances, fun floating shelves, with an already painted accent wall. Benefit from a designer’s touch, accent colors and beautiful new bathrooms with modern vanities, fixtures, and tile. The 2 bedrooms have walk-in closets with a bonus laundry room, also with brand new washer/dryer set. Every inch of this cozy home was thought out to maximize space. A new front porch was built to emphasize the lakeview across the way. Enjoy this large lot, free of HOA fees, and make it your own in future years. Add a fence, garage, pool, carport, or even an additional building for a workshop or ADU. Not many town properties offer this much potential and land, while having a great start with everything new and improved in your home! Just minutes from restaurants, the local sports complex with a public pool, and only a little over 10 minutes from Legoland — get the best of Winter Haven and enjoy easy access to Lakeland and Auburndale via the backroads. Schedule your in person or virtual tour today!

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.

 

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