Flourish Your Florida Home: 7 Tips to Refresh With The Ultimate Spring Cleaning

May is a wonderful time to be a homeowner in Florida. The weather is warm, but not too hot, and the flowers are in bloom. It’s also the perfect time to tackle some essential home maintenance tasks to keep your home running smoothly throughout the year. Spring cleaning is especially important in Florida due to the state’s subtropical climate. With high humidity and frequent rainfall, homes in Florida can quickly accumulate mold, mildew, and dust, which can lead to health issues like allergies and respiratory problems.

Additionally, Florida’s warm weather attracts pests like ants, roaches, and mosquitoes, which can be difficult to control without regular cleaning and maintenance. Therefore, spring cleaning in Florida is crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment and keeping pests at bay.

Here are some important Spring Cleaning things that homeowners in Florida need to do this month:

  1. Check your air conditioning: In Florida, air conditioning is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. One of the most critical areas to focus on during spring cleaning is the air conditioning system. Make sure your air conditioning system is in good working order before the summer heat arrives. Air filters can quickly become clogged with dust and debris, reducing the efficiency of your HVAC system and potentially leading to higher energy bills. By cleaning or replacing your air filters, you can ensure that your home’s air quality is improved, and your HVAC system can operate more efficiently, saving you money in the long run. Additionally, cleaning your air ducts and vents can help to eliminate allergens that can cause respiratory issues, such as mold, pollen, and pet dander.
  2. Clean your gutters and downspouts: Florida is known for its sudden rain showers, and these can leave your gutters and downspouts clogged with leaves and debris. Clean out your gutters to prevent water damage and keep your home looking its best.
  3. Inspect your roof: With the hurricane season starting in June, it’s important to make sure your roof is in good condition. Take a close look at your roof to make sure there are no missing or damaged shingles. If you notice any issues, hire a professional to make repairs before they turn into larger problems. Here are some do’s and don’ts to cleaning your roof recommended by the pros.
  4. Service your lawn mower: The warm weather in Florida means that your lawn will be growing quickly. Make sure your lawn mower is in good working order by sharpening the blades, changing the oil, and checking the spark plug. Not sure where to start? Here are some tips from the pros on servicing your lawn mower.
  5. Clean your windows: Florida’s sunny weather means that your windows can get dirty quickly. Give your windows a thorough cleaning using a streak-free cleaner and a squeegee to get them looking crystal clear.
  6. Inspect your outdoor lighting: Florida’s mild evenings are perfect for spending time outdoors, so make sure all of your outdoor lights are working properly. Replace any burned out bulbs to improve your home’s curb appeal and keep your family safe at night.
  7. Pressure wash your home: The humid climate can lead to mold, mildew, and dirt buildup on the exterior of your home. Rent a pressure washer or hire a professional to remove the grime and restore your home’s exterior.

Spring cleaning is not just about cleaning the outside of your home.

Getting rid of clutter and deep cleaning your home on the inside is essential. Another essential area to focus on during spring cleaning is the kitchen. The warm and humid climate in Florida can make the kitchen an attractive environment for pests, such as cockroaches and ants. By thoroughly cleaning your kitchen, including the pantry and cupboards, you can reduce the risk of pest infestations, as well as prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold.

Additionally, cleaning out your fridge and freezer can help to eliminate any expired or spoiled food items, ensuring that your family is safe from potential foodborne illnesses. By taking the time to spring clean your home, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family to enjoy.

In conclusion, May is a great time to be a homeowner on our Gulf Coast. By following this to-do list and engaging in spring cleaning, you can keep your home running smoothly and prevent larger problems down the road. So, roll up your sleeves and get to work – your home will thank you for it!

Call or email us today to begin your search!

Call us at 850.492.1148 or email us at [email protected]

The 3 Ultimate Hidden Expenses When Flipping A House

Buying a flip house can come with several benefits. First, you have the opportunity to purchase a property at a potentially lower price point and add value to it through renovations and upgrades, which can increase the home’s resale value. Additionally, you have the ability to customize the house to your liking and make it your own. Finally, flipping houses can be a lucrative business venture if done correctly, allowing you to generate a profit by buying low, renovating, and selling high.

However, it is important to note that flipping houses can also come with risks, such as unexpected expenses and a longer-than-anticipated renovation timeline. Flipping a house can definitely be a lucrative investment, but it’s important to keep in mind that there are often hidden expenses that can quickly eat away at your profits.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the three main hidden expenses when flipping a house, so you can be better prepared and make smarter financial decisions.

  1. Holding Costs – One of the biggest hidden expenses of flipping a house is the holding costs. This refers to all the expenses that you’ll incur while the house is being renovated and until it’s sold. Holding costs can include things like mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utility bills, and maintenance costs. These expenses can quickly add up, especially if the house takes longer to sell than expected or if there are unexpected delays during the renovation process.

To minimize holding costs, it’s important to have a solid plan in place before you start the renovation process. This includes having a clear timeline and budget for the renovation, as well as a realistic estimate of how long it will take to sell the house. There are quite a few apps available top help you calculate these costs and create a realistic budget such as this popular flipping software.

  1. Renovation Costs – Another major hidden expense of flipping a house is renovation costs. While it’s important to invest in renovations that will increase the value of the property, it’s also easy to go over budget and spend more than you planned. This can be due to unexpected issues that arise during the renovation process or simply underestimating the costs of materials and labor.

To minimize hidden renovation costs, it’s important to have a detailed plan and budget in place before starting the renovation. This includes getting multiple quotes from contractors and suppliers, as well as researching the costs of materials and labor in your area.

  1. Closing Costs – Finally, it’s important to remember that there are often significant closing costs when selling a house. These can include things like real estate agent commissions, transfer taxes, and title fees. Depending on the location and value of the property, these costs can be quite substantial and can significantly impact your overall profits.

To minimize closing costs, it’s important to have the best real estate agent and title company, and to have someone negotiate fees whenever possible. It’s also important to have a clear understanding of what the closing costs will be before you agree to sell the property. Having a great relationship with your real estate agent can provide numerous benefits when it comes to buying or selling a property. For starters, a good agent will have a deep understanding of the local real estate market and can offer invaluable advice on pricing, negotiating deals, and navigating the buying or selling process.

Additionally, a strong rapport with your agent can ensure clear and open communication, which can help to avoid any misunderstandings or issues down the line. Moreover, a trusted real estate agent can save you time and effort by handling the various administrative tasks involved in the transaction and providing access to a wider range of properties or potential buyers. Overall, building a strong relationship with your agent can help to ensure a smooth and successful real estate experience.

In conclusion, while flipping a house can be a great way to make money, it’s important to be aware of the hidden expenses that can quickly eat away at your profits and to lean on a Pointe South agent to help guide you through the process of purchasing your investment property. By being prepared and having a solid plan in place, you can minimize these expenses and increase your chances of a successful and profitable house flip.

Call or email us today to begin your search!

Call us at 850.492.1148 or email us at [email protected]

The Importance of a Comprehensive Rider to the Residential Contract For Sale

Homeowner and Flood Insurance Contingency

A comprehensive rider to the Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase is an additional document that is attached to the standard residential contract used in real estate transactions. This rider typically contains additional terms and conditions that are specific to the particular property or transaction and are not covered in the standard contract. 

The purpose of a comprehensive rider in the Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase is to provide additional protections and details that are not covered in the standard contract, and to address any unique or unusual circumstances related to the property or the transaction.  

Residential Contract for Sale

Some common topics that may be covered in a comprehensive rider in a Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase include: 

  • Financing contingencies and requirements 
  • Home inspection requirements and timeframes 
  • Property condition and disclosures 
  • Repair and improvement agreements 
  • Homeowner association (HOA) regulations and requirements 
  • Appraisal contingencies and requirements 
  • Special provisions related to closing costs or other fees 
  • Homeowner and Flood Insurance 

There are several reasons why homeowner and flood insurance can be expensive in Pensacola, Florida

High Risk of Floods: Pensacola is in a coastal area, and the region is prone to hurricanes and flooding. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Pensacola has a high risk of flooding, which makes flood insurance more expensive. 

High Property Values: Property values in Pensacola can be higher than in other parts of the country, which can increase the cost of homeowner insurance. Insurance companies need to charge higher premiums to cover the cost of repairing or replacing these properties in the event of damage or loss. 

High Wind Risk: Pensacola is also at risk of wind damage due to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can increase the cost of homeowner insurance. The cost of repairing or replacing a home damaged by high winds can be expensive. 

Limited Competition: Insurance companies may be hesitant to offer coverage in areas that are at high risk for natural disasters, which can limit competition and increase the cost of insurance. 

State Insurance Regulations: Florida has strict insurance regulations that can increase the cost of insurance. For example, insurers are required to offer certain types of coverage, such as sinkhole insurance, which can be costly. 

Residential Contract for Sale

How Does the Comprehensive Rider in the Residential Contract for Sale and Purchase for Homeowner’s & Flood Insurance Work?

The comprehensive rider is typically negotiated and agreed upon by both parties, and then attached to the standard contract as an addendum. It is important to carefully review and understand the terms of the rider before signing the contract, as it may contain important details or obligations that are not covered in the standard contract. You will want to make sure you correctly understand the deadlines in the addendum.  

The Homeowner’s Flood insurance addendum is so important because if you as a buyer cannot obtain a policy at an annual premium you can afford, you are able to terminate the contract and have your deposit refunded.  

A great local resource is Josh Kissel, at Southern Insurance Services, who can easily answer your insurance questions. Give him a call at 850-207-5120 or email him at [email protected]. 

At Pointe South Rentals and Real Estate, our mission is to be the ultimate resource for all your real estate needs. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent a property in the beautiful Pensacola area, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service and helping you navigate the real estate market with ease. With our team of experienced professionals, extensive knowledge of the local market, and a commitment to client satisfaction, we strive to exceed your expectations.

We understand that buying or renting a property is a significant decision, and we are here to guide you every step of the way, offering personalized attention and expert advice. Trust Pointe South Rentals and Real Estate to be your trusted partner in achieving your real estate goals.

Call us at 850.492.1148 or email us at [email protected]

Discover Pointe South’s Pensacola Events Calendar For March!

Fun Events and festivals that take place in Pensacola, Florida, in March!

Here are some of the top events to consider from Pointe South’s Pensacola events calendar for March:

McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day Run (held on March 11th): This annual 5K run/walk starts and ends at McGuire’s Irish Pub in downtown Pensacola, and participants are encouraged to wear green and embrace the Irish spirit.

Palafox Market (every Saturday in March): This open-air farmers market features locally grown produce, handcrafted goods, live music, and more.

Bands on the Beach (every Tuesday in March): This free concert series takes place at Gulf side Pavilion on Pensacola Beach and features live music from local and regional bands.

These events and festivals offer an excellent opportunity to experience Pensacola, Florida’s culture, food, and music in March.

See the Pensacola Events Calendar for March below!

Links from the Pensacola Events Calendar for March are below for more informatio

3/4/23 4-10pm O’Riley’s Irish Pub Grog  

3/4/23 8am-7pm March Madness by Beaches

3/4/23 9am-1pm Sun Belt Basketball Championships Fan Fest

3/4/23 1-3pm Bully Dog Day here at Coastal County Brewing Company!

3/4/23 5pm-2am Night on the Tracks

3/11/23 9-10am McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day Run

3/11/23 7:05-10:05pm Pensacola Ice Flyers vs. Knoxville Ice Bears

3/17/23 – 4/2/23 The Addams Family

3/17/23 starts at 10am O’Riley’s Irish Pub Downtown St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

3/17/23 4-10pm Kites on the Coast

3/17/23 5-9pm Gallery Night Pensacola – Celebrate the Written Word

3/18/23 2-6pm The Coastal County Weird Beer Fest

3/18/23 starts at 7:30am  Flora-Bama Annual Beach Run/Walk

3/19/23 10am to 6pm The Wharf Boat & Yacht Show

3/25/23 11am to 6pm Pensacola VegFest 2023

3/25/23 starts at 8pm Thin Ice LIVE at Bamboo Willie’s

3/27/23 10am Perdido Key Chamber High Heel Classic Women’s Golf Scramble

Call us at 850.492.1148 or email us at [email protected]