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Homestead Exemption Requirements 2025

Homestead Exemption Requirements 2025

Homestead Exemption Requirements 2025

Are you a homeowner in Florida? This information might interest you! 

Owning a home in Florida comes with financial perks that can help reduce property tax liability. Programs like the Homestead Exemption and the Save Our Homes (SOH) Assessment Limitation enable thousands of Florida homeowners to save significantly on their property taxes annually. Additionally, other exemptions are available for property owners with unique circumstances, such as disabilities, military service, or specialized property uses. 

Key Benefits for Homeowners 

  1. Homestead Exemption 
    Florida homeowners who make their property their primary residence—or that of their dependents—may qualify for a Homestead Exemption, which can reduce the property’s taxable value by up to $50,000. 
  1. Save Our Homes (SOH) Assessment Limitation 
    The SOH cap restricts the annual increase of assessed property values to 3% or the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. This helps shield homeowners from drastic property tax increases due to rising property values. 
  1. Portability of SOH Benefits 
    While the Homestead Exemption itself is nontransferable, Florida allows homeowners to transfer (or “port”) their SOH assessment savings to a new homestead within the state. This portability ensures continued tax benefits even after relocating. 
  1. Additional Benefits for Special Groups 
    Exemptions and discounts are also available for: 
  1. Senior citizens 
  1. Veterans and active-duty military service members 
  1. Individuals with disabilities 
  1. Disabled first responders 
  1. Properties serving specialized purposes 

Empower Your Finances 

By understanding and leveraging these tax exemptions, Florida homeowners can take control of their property expenses and potentially save thousands of dollars each year. To learn more about your eligibility or to apply, consult your local property appraiser’s office or official government resources for detailed guidance. 

Take advantage of these programs today to make the most of your Florida homeownership! 

For Local Information you can also contact your County Appriser 

Source: Florida Department of Revenue 

 

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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Local Spotlight: 5 things to do in Central Florida other than the Theme Parks 

Local Spotlight: 5 things to do in Central Florida other than the Theme Parks 

Local Spotlight: 5 things to do in Central Florida other than the Theme Parks 

Exploring Four Corners: Top Spots Beyond Theme Parks 

Getting familiar with the area and seeking new adventures? Four Corners offers plenty of activities that go beyond Disney and the theme parks. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing day outdoors, here are some must-visit places to enjoy the beauty of Florida’s weather and landscape: 

  1. Northeast Regional Park

Located in Polk County, this fantastic park offers sports courts, walking trails, playgrounds, and even a fishing dock. It’s the perfect spot for outdoor fun and connecting with nature. 

  1. 2. Celebration Lakeside Park

With serene lake views and scenic walking trails, Celebration Lakeside Park is a wonderful place to soak up the sunshine and enjoy Florida’s great weather. 

  1. Gatorland

Looking for adventure? Gatorland has zip lines, live exhibitions, a croc rock wall, a petting zoo, feeding experiences, and exciting shows. It’s a thrill-packed day for all ages! 

  1. Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards

For a more relaxing experience, visit Lakeridge Winery to enjoy local wine tastings and tours. It’s the perfect way to unwind and savor a peaceful day. 

  1. Southern Hill Farms (Clermont)

Experience the charm of farm life by picking seasonal fruits, enjoying family-friendly activities, and connecting with nature. Don’t forget to check their calendar for special events! 

Four Corners is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Step outside the usual attractions and enjoy all the natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation this area has to offer! 

 

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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Home Improvement and Staging Tips

Home Improvement and Staging Tips

Thinking About Selling Your Property? Try These Tips to Attract More Buyers! 

Selling your property can feel like a big task, but with the right preparation, you can make your home irresistible to potential buyers. Check out these expert tips to maximize your property’s appeal and secure the best offers: 

 

  1.  Boost Your Curb Appeal 

First impressions matter! A freshly painted exterior, a repaired fence, or some vibrant landscaping can go a long way in grabbing attention. Enhancing your home’s curb appeal doesn’t just attract more buyers—it can also increase the value of the offers you receive. 

  1.  Give Your Kitchen a Facelift 

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and buyers know it. You don’t need a complete remodel to make it shine. Small updates like painting cabinets, upgrading the backsplash, or replacing outdated appliances can make a huge difference—and keep your budget intact. 

 

  1.  Fix What’s Broken 

Buyers want a home that’s move-in ready. Addressing minor repairs like cracked walls, squeaky floors, or a leaky roof will not only improve the overall look of your home but also give buyers peace of mind. 

 

  1. Declutter Like a Pro 

Less is more! Clear out excess furniture and personal items to make your home feel more spacious. Professional stagers often remove up to half of a home’s furnishings to create an open, inviting space where buyers can envision their future. Give them room to dream! 

  1. Power Wash for Instant Freshness 

A clean driveway and exterior can work wonders for your home’s appearance. A quick power wash can brighten up pathways, patios, and driveways, leaving your property looking polished and well-cared-for. 

 

Ready to Sell? Let’s Make It Happen! 

These simple yet impactful tips can make a big difference in attracting buyers and achieving the best price for your property. Need more guidance? Our team of real estate experts is here to help you every step of the way. 

Your perfect buyer is out there—let’s make your property the one they’ve been waiting for! 

 

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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Safety Tips for Renters: Ensuring Your Smoke Detectors Are Ready 

Safety Tips for Renters: Ensuring Your Smoke Detectors Are Ready 

Safety Tips for Renters: Ensuring Your Smoke Detectors Are Ready

As renters, it’s important to stay proactive about fire safety. Smoke detectors are essential for protecting you and your home. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Test Monthly

Press the test button on each smoke detector once a month to ensure it’s working properly. Regular testing is a simple way to stay safe.

2. Replace Batteries Regulations 

Replace the batteries in your smoke detectors at least once a year—or sooner if you hear the low-battery alert. Fresh batteries help ensure reliable operation.

3. Check Expiration Dates 

Smoke detectors typically last around 10 years. Be sure to replace yours if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, or if it shows signs of malfunction.

4. Report Issues Promptly 

If you notice that a smoke detector is malfunctioning, missing, or making strange noises, inform your landlord right away. Quick action can prevent serious issues.

5. Familiarize Yourself with the Escape Plan  

Know your building’s fire escape routes, exits, and designated meeting areas. This knowledge is crucial in an emergency situation.

6. Know Local Regulations 

Different areas may have specific rules regarding smoke detector maintenance. Contact your local fire department or building office to stay informed about your area’s requirements. 

By following these simple guidelines, you can help protect yourself and your home from fire hazards. Stay safe and take action today! 

How Our Partnership with Motto Mortgage Makes Homebuying Easier

How Our Partnership with Motto Mortgage Makes Homebuying Easier

How Our Partnership with Motto Mortgage Makes Homebuying Easier

At RE/MAX Heritage, we’ve spent over two decades guiding clients through the complexities of real estate, from buying and selling to investing. One of the most challenging aspects of any transaction is securing the right mortgage. That’s why our partnership with Motto Mortgage Homewise is such a valuable asset and we know how you, our clients, can take advantage of this partnership. We didn’t partner with just any lender—we teamed up with Motto Mortgage because they bring real solutions that simplify the mortgage process, offering clarity and efficiency for our clients. 

Loan Officers at Motto Mortgage Homewise

What This Partnership Means for You 

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, having a trusted mortgage partner is key to a smoother transaction. Here’s how our partnership with Motto Mortgage makes all the difference. 

For Buyers: Simplifying the Path to Homeownership

As a buyer, navigating the mortgage process can feel overwhelming. With questions about affordability, borrowing limits, and timing, it’s easy to feel uncertain. But with RE/MAX Heritage and Motto Mortgage working together, we help take the guesswork out of securing a mortgage. 

  • Fast Loan Estimates: In just 15 minutes, you can receive a loan estimate without affecting your credit score, giving you immediate insight into how much home you can afford. 
  • A Variety of Loan Options: Whether you need an FHA, VA, or a flexible down payment assistance loan, Motto Mortgage offers diverse solutions tailored to your financial situation. 
  • Quick Closings: Once you find the right home, there’s no need for delays. With Motto Mortgage, we aim to close loans in 14 days or less, ensuring a fast and efficient process from start to finish. 
For Sellers: Faster Closings with Confident Buyers

As a seller, having financially prepared buyers means fewer delays and smoother transactions. Our partnership with Motto Mortgage allows us to ensure that potential buyers are pre-qualified quickly, so you can sell with confidence knowing your buyer is ready to close. 

Imagine showing your property to a buyer who has already secured their financing. This peace of mind minimizes uncertainty and helps facilitate quicker sales, giving sellers the advantage in today’s competitive market. 

For Investors: Optimizing Your Financial Strategy

Investors know that timing is everything, and having the right financing options can make or break your next move. Motto Mortgage specializes in creative loan solutions tailored for investors, including: 

  • Bridge Loans for buying before selling. 
  • Investment Loans with only 15% down, allowing you to leverage your capital more effectively. 
  • Foreign National Loans that can close in under three weeks. 

These flexible financing options give investors the edge they need to make strategic decisions and maximize their returns. 

A Partnership Built on Experience and Results 

Our partnership with Motto Mortgage Homewise isn’t just about convenience—it’s about trust and expertise. With decades of experience in real estate, we know how crucial strong partnerships are to ensuring successful transactions. Motto Mortgage shares our commitment to clear communication, realistic solutions, and fast results. 

We’ve built a relationship that empowers our clients to navigate the mortgage process with confidence, ensuring that the entire experience—from offer to closing—is as seamless as possible. 

Why Now Is the Time to Act 

With interest rates still favorable compared to historical trends, now is a great time to buy, sell, or invest. Having a reliable mortgage partner like Motto Mortgage makes it easier to take advantage of these opportunities. Whether you’re locking in a great rate or exploring new possibilities, we’re here to help you make the most of today’s market. 

What’s Next? Let’s Get Started 

At RE/MAX Heritage, we pride ourselves on being trusted advisors to our clients. Our partnership with Motto Mortgage ensures that we’re not just finding the right homes—we’re securing the right financing as well. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. 

If you’d like to learn more reach visit their website at www.mottomortgage.com/offices/homewise-winter-haven/staff-roster 

July Real Estate Home Sales Show Positive Shift

July Real Estate Home Sales Show Positive Shift

July Real Estate Home Sales Show Positive Shift

Existing July home sales

 

July Real Estate Home Sales Show Positive Shift

July marked a positive turn for existing-home sales, breaking a four-month streak of declines, according to the National Association of REALTORS®. Three out of the four major U.S. regions experienced an increase in sales, while the Midwest held steady. Year-over-year, sales rose in the Northeast and West but saw declines in the Midwest and South.

Key Highlights:

  • Overall Sales Growth: Total existing-home sales—including single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, and co-ops—increased by 1.3% from June, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.95 million in July. However, this is a 2.5% decrease compared to July 2023, when sales stood at 4.05 million.

  • Market Conditions: NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun noted, “Although the gain is modest, home sales continue to face challenges. However, buyers are seeing more options, and affordability is improving thanks to lower interest rates.”

  • Inventory Levels: Total housing inventory at the end of July was 1.33 million units, marking a 0.8% increase from June and a substantial 19.8% rise from a year ago (1.11 million). Unsold inventory is currently at a 4.0-month supply, down slightly from 4.1 months in June but up from 3.3 months in July 2023.

  • Home Prices: The median existing-home price for all housing types in July was $422,600, a 4.2% increase from one year ago ($405,600). All four U.S. regions reported price increases.

REALTORS® Confidence Index

According to the monthly REALTORS® Confidence Index:

  • Time on Market: Properties typically remained on the market for 24 days in July, up from 22 days in June and 20 days in July 2023.
  • First-Time Buyers: First-time buyers accounted for 29% of sales in July, consistent with June but slightly down from 30% in July 2023.
  • All-Cash Sales: All-cash sales made up 27% of transactions in July, slightly down from 28% in June but an increase from 26% a year ago.
  • Investor Activity: Individual investors or second-home buyers, who often make cash purchases, bought 13% of homes in July, down from 16% in both June 2024 and July 2023.
  • Distressed Sales: Distressed sales, including foreclosures and short sales, represented 1% of sales in July, virtually unchanged from the previous month and the prior year.

Mortgage Rates

Freddie Mac reported that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.49% as of August 15, slightly up from 6.47% the previous week but down from 7.09% one year ago.

Single-Family and Condo/Co-op Sales

  • Single-Family Homes: Sales rose by 1.4% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.57 million in July, a 1.4% decrease from the previous year. The median existing single-family home price was $428,500 in July, up 4.2% from July 2023.

  • Condominiums and Co-ops: Sales remained steady from June at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 380,000 units, but this represents an 11.6% decline from a year ago (430,000 units). The median existing condo price was $367,500 in July, up 2.7% from the prior year ($357,900).

Yun commented, “The median home price for condominiums is lower, but the condominium market continues to underperform compared to the single-family market. Rising maintenance and insurance costs have diminished the appeal of condominiums.”

Regional Breakdown

  • Northeast: Existing-home sales increased by 4.3% from June to an annual rate of 490,000 in July, a 2.1% rise from July 2023. The median price in the Northeast was $505,100, an 8.3% increase from last year.

  • Midwest: Existing-home sales remained unchanged in July at an annual rate of 920,000, though this represents a 5.2% decline from the previous year. The median price in the Midwest was $321,300, up 4.5% from July 2023.

  • South: Existing-home sales grew by 1.1% from June to an annual rate of 1.79 million in July, but this is a 3.8% decrease from one year ago. The median price in the South was $372,500, a 2.3% increase from the previous year.

  • West: The West saw existing-home sales rise by 1.4% in July, reaching an annual rate of 750,000, which is also a 1.4% increase from a year ago. The median price in the West was $629,500, a 3.4% increase from July 2023.


Why Choose RE/MAX Heritage – A Bardell Real Estate Company

At RE/MAX Heritage, we are Florida Property Specialists, offering unparalleled expertise in new and resale vacation homes, investment properties, retirement homes, residential properties, and long-term property management/leasing services. Serving the Orlando area, we are your gateway to buying and selling real estate with confidence.

Legacy of Excellence
Established as Bardell Real Estate in 1989, we have been a trusted name in Central Florida for over 30 years. Our decision to join the RE/MAX family in December 2021 enhances our ability to deliver top-tier service by combining our deep-rooted values of honesty, integrity, and respect with RE/MAX’s global resources.

Full-Service Real Estate Expertise
As a full-service real estate office, RE/MAX Heritage is committed to meeting all your real estate needs—whether you’re buying, selling, or seeking long-term leasing services. We operate in full compliance with the Fair Housing Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and all relevant laws to ensure the highest standards of service.

Our Commitment
Our product is service, and our tools are people and property. We are dedicated to delivering a warm, friendly experience focused on helping you achieve your real estate goals, coupled with the highest level of professionalism to solve your needs better than anyone else.

Motto: “WHEN ONLY A PROFESSIONAL WILL DO.”

Choose RE/MAX Heritage to experience a perfect blend of heritage, expertise, and global reach, ensuring your real estate journey is nothing short of exceptional.

 

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.