Should You Rent or Buy? 12 Pros & Cons to Make an Informative Decision on Housing!

Deciding whether to rent or buy a home is a personal decision that depends on many factors, including your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Here are some matters to consider when making the decision to rent or buy:

Pros of Renting in Pensacola, Florida:

  • Flexibility: Renting allows you to move quickly to a new location without the burden of selling a home. Renting can be especially beneficial if you are unsure where to live long-term or anticipate needing to relocate for work or other reasons.
  • Lower upfront costs: Renting generally requires a smaller upfront financial commitment than buying a home. You will typically need to pay a security deposit and the first month’s rent rather than a down payment and closing costs.
  • Fewer maintenance responsibilities: As a renter, you are not responsible for maintaining the property or paying for repairs (excluding damages or repairs not reported). Not being responsible for maintenance can be a significant advantage if you do not have the time, skills, or financial resources to take on these tasks.

Pros of Buying in Pensacola, Florida:

  • Building equity: When you buy a home, you build equity in an asset you own. Home equity can be an excellent way to save for the future, especially if the home’s value appreciates over time.
  • Potential tax benefits: Homeowners may be able to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes on their tax returns, which can save them money.
  • Personalization: When you own a home, you can make changes and improvements as you see fit. Making these changes can be a great way to personalize your living space and create a home that truly reflects your style and needs.

Cons of Renting in Pensacola, Florida:

  • Limited control: As a renter, you are subject to the rules and regulations set forth by your landlord, and you may not have the freedom to make changes to the property.
  • Not building equity: When you rent, you are paying someone else’s mortgage and not building equity in your own home.
  • Potentially higher costs in the long run: While renting may have lower upfront costs, it can be more expensive in the long run compared to buying a home. Rent tends to increase over time, while a mortgage payment remains fixed (assuming you have a fixed-rate mortgage).

Cons of Buying in Pensacola, Florida:

  • Higher upfront costs: Buying a home requires a significant financial investment, including a down payment, closing costs, and other fees. These costs can be a significant barrier for some people, especially if they do not have a lot of savings or a high income.
  • Maintenance responsibilities: As a homeowner, you are responsible for maintaining and repairing the property, which can lead to unexpected expenses.
  • Illiquidity: It can take time and effort to sell a home, and there is no guarantee that you will be able to sell it for the price you want. Which makes it difficult to access the equity you have built up in the property, especially in a down market.

Ultimately, deciding to rent or buy a home depends on your circumstances and priorities. If you are unsure which option is best for you, please speak with a financial advisor or us, your real estate professional, to get more information and guidance. In addition, Nerdwallet has a Rent VS. Buy calculator to help you calculate the financial costs.

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 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]

10 Helpful Packing Tips For Moving To The Gulf Coast!

Helpful Packing Tips For Moving To The Gulf Coast!

Some people become stressed when planning a move. But, whether you or selling or buying, you will have to pack it all up. I actually love packing and moving! So, I will give you some great helpful tips for moving across the country or the town.

Tip #1 Start the Purge

I mean it; go through every drawer and every cabinet. You will want to purge items before the move, not after. Recycle or donate anything you no longer need or use. You can post items for sale or free on the Facebook Market Page. The earlier you start this, the better! Starting early will reduce stress and ensure that you have everything organized that you are planning on taking with you! I recommend watching Marie Kondo. She motivates me to declutter and keep belongings “that speak to your heart!”

Tip #2 Rent a Storage Unit

If you can and time allows, rent a storage unit. Packing away items you will keep but do not readily need is very helpful. You can slowly move items daily, so the boxes are out of the way. This is also a useful tip for preparing your home for picture day!

Tip #3 Materials You Should Use

I love the boxes you can buy at Home Depot. They are good quality boxes and are suitable sizes. I try to get boxes that match in size, so it is easier to stack and keep organized. I recommend buying bins like these to pack holiday décor or items you will store in the garage. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs. This will make unpacking and organizing your belongings easier once you reach your new home. Use packing materials such as bubble wrap, foam, and newspaper to protect fragile items. Stretch wrap also saves your furniture from being scratched up.

Tip #4 Preparing Your Electronics

Take photographs of your electronics and appliances before disconnecting them to aid in the reassembly process. This also comes in handy when purchasing your new homeowner’s insurance. I would also label remotes.

Tips #5 Moving Equipment

If you are moving on your own, I recommend renting, borrowing, or buying moving dollies (at least one) and making sure your moving truck has a ramp.

Tip #6 Storing Clothes, Pillows, and Blankets

Vacuum seal your clothes, blankets, and pillows. This helps reduce taking up space and keeps these items clean. You can also use pillows, blankets, and stuffed animals in boxes with breakables and picture frames.

Tip #7 Changing Your Address and Subscriptions

Notify utility companies and other important contacts of your move in advance. You can submit your forwarding address by clicking here. Update the address on your driver’s license and vehicle registration. During my last move, I forgot to cancel my auto-subscriptions from Amazon. So, do not forget about any orders that are auto shipped to you.

Tip #8 Gift for the New Homeowner or Renter

I always try to leave a little gift for the new homeowner or renter. It can be something small like a bag of coffee, wrapped toilet paper with a new bar of soap, or new toothbrushes with new toothpaste. Moving can be stressful, and seeing a little welcome gift can go a long way. After all, you are handing off keys to new people who will be making memories in the home.

Tip #9 Your To Do List

Create an excel spreadsheet “to do” list with all the above steps. I like using excel because it makes me feel organized and gives me a sense of achievement when I mark something as complete. In addition, you can quickly delete items.

Tip #10 Have FUN!!!

Remember to have FUN! Moving into a new home is an exciting change and a fantastic opportunity to start a new chapter in your life! Remember, we are here to help! Call or email us, as we are happy to help in any way we can. 850. 492.1148 [email protected]

Discover The Best Mardi Gras Parades On The Gulf Coast!

The History of Mardi Gras in Pensacola, Florida

Mardi Gras is a festive season celebrated by many people! It is also known as Fat Tuesday and is typically celebrated on the day before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is known for its colorful parades, elaborate costumes, music, dancing, and feasting. The festival is celebrated in many countries worldwide, but is especially famous in New Orleans, Mobile, and here in Pensacola, Florida! It has been a tradition for over 100 years. The festival is a time of indulgence and enjoyment!

Mardi Gras parades are a central part of the celebration and are usually held in the weeks leading up to Fat Tuesday. The parades feature colorful floats, costumed revelers, live music, and dancing and are often organized by krewes, social clubs that are a central part of Mardi Gras celebrations. In addition, participants in the parades usually throw beads, trinkets, and other small items to the crowds lining the streets.

Krewes play an essential role in supporting and promoting the cultural and historical traditions of Mardi Gras, and they are a significant part of the fabric of the festival. Mardi Gras parades are a source of pride and tradition for many communities and are a highlight of the festival for everyone. The schedule and route of Mardi Gras parades vary and are listed below (click on each link). Make sure to attend as the Mardi Gras celebrations in Pensacola attract thousands of visitors each year and are considered to be some of the best in the United States!

Click On Each Link For Locations of the Parade!

February 9th starting at 6:30 p.m. – Mobile Mardi Gras Parade (order of Polka Dots)

February 11th starting at 2p.m. – Kids and Kritters Pensacola Beach

February 10th starting at 6:30p.m. –  Mobile Mardi Gras Parade (Order of Inca)

February 11th starting at 1p.m. – Navarre Beach Mardi Gras Parade

February 17th starting at 7:30 p.m. – Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade

February 18th 1-6p.m. –  Mardi Gras at Bodacious (you can watch the parade from their balcony)

February 18th starting at 11a.m. – Foley Mardi Gras Parade

February 18th  2-3p.m. – Krewe of Mullet Mates Mardi Gras Parade in Fairhope

February 18th  2-6p.m. – HarborWalk Village Mardi Gras Parade in Destin

February 18th  starting at 2p.m. – The Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade

February 18th  starting at 6pm – Mystics of Time Downtown Mobile

February 19th  starting at 2p.m. – Krewe of Wrecks Parade

February 21st starting at 2p.m. – Orange Beach Mardi Gras Parade

February 21st  2-10p.m. 790’s Mardi Gras Celebration

February 21st starting at 10a.m. – LuLu’s Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras Celebration and Mardi Gras Boat Parade

February 21st 5-11:30p.m. – Fat Tuesday Celebration Seville Quarter in Pensacola

February 26th 1:30-5:00p.m. Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade

Do not forget to post your pictures of the parades! We are so excited to see you all have fun!

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.

If you happen to be driving by on your way to something fun, don’t forget to stop by our Pointe South office for a list of available properties or to just say “hello!” We are always here to help!

 Call or email us today to begin your search!

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

The Top Activities for Valentine’s Day That You Will Love!

History of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14th, honoring Saint Valentine and celebrating love and affection. 

Saint Valentine was a Christian martyr living in the 3rd century Roman Empire. He is the patron saint of lovers and is associated with celebrating Valentine’s Day. The details of his life and the reasons for his martyrdom have yet to be well known and are subject to different interpretations and legends. One legend was said to have healed the jailer’s daughter of blindness and left her a letter signed “from your Valentine.” Hence the Valentine’s Day Card

Europeans began exchanging written declarations of love and affection on February 14th. The practice was popularized in England and France, and by the 17th century, handwritten cards became more decorative, with lace, ribbons, and other decorations added. The first mass-produced Valentine’s Day cards were produced in the early 19th century. The trend continued to grow, with the introduction of new printing techniques allowing for more elaborate designs. Today, Valentine’s Day cards remain a popular way to express love and affection, with millions of cards exchanged each year.

Pointe South Valentine’s Day Recommends

Another way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is to go out to eat! The Pointe South Team recommends the following:

Best Valentine’s Day Beaches Along the Gulf Coast

Another way to celebrate Valentine’s Day on the Gulf Coast is to visit one of our famous beaches! We have so many beaches you can visit for a romantic, calm night! Johnson Beach is in Perdido Key and has lovely walking trails and a fantastic shoreline! Navarre is AMAZING, and walking the Pier is very relaxing and romantic. Of course, you can always explore by renting a glow paddle boat at night. One of our very own real estate agents is a Captain! If you want to schedule a dive off one of our shores, click here! 

Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum

Visiting our lighthouse is another romantic activity to do. The Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum is located at the Naval Air Station. The museum is the perfect place to walk and learn about the history of our area. 

Valentine’s Day Dinner Mystery Night

A unique way to spend Valentine’s Day is by going to a dinner mystery night. The Cellar – Speakeasy in Niceville, Fl, is hosting a “Dinner to Die For!”

Not Interested in Valentine’s Day

If you are not interested in Valentine’s Day but still want to do something fun? Check out Grizzly Axes! They are hosting an anti-Valentines Axe Throwing Party! They will have coaches, so first-time throwers are welcome! The party includes a gift at the door, 2.5-hour axe-throwing, and Pizza!

Such fun activities to do along the Gulf Coast! Let us know what you think and what activities you have planned!

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.

If you happen to be driving by on your way to something fun, don’t forget to stop by our Pointe South office for a list of available properties or to just say “hello!” We are always here to help! Call or email us today to begin your search!

850.492.1148 or email us at [email protected]

February 2023 : Don’t Miss These Exciting Events on the Gulf Coast

February 1st – 14th on the Gulf Coast

Perdido Key Chamber Snowbird Hootenanny Sweetheart Saloon – When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Feb. 2 – Where: Flora-Bama Lounge, 17401 Perdido Key Drive

Krewe of Avant Garde’s 40th Anniversary Masquerade Mardi Gras Ball – When: 6 to 11 p.m., Feb. 3 – Where: Hilton Garden Inn, 1144 Airport Blvd.

Pensacola Double Bridge Run – When: 7 to 11 a.m., Feb. 4 – Where: 101 W. Main St

Sam Tallent at Vinyl Music Hall – When: 7 p.m., Feb. 4 – Where: Vinyl Music Hall, 2 S. Palafox St

Oyster Bash 2023 – When: 6 to 8 p.m., Feb. 4 – Where: Sir Richard’s Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents Mozart Madness – When: 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., Feb. 4 – Where: First United Methodist Church, 6 E Wright St

2nd annual Pawdi Gras – When: 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 5 – Where: Garden Street (closed), between Tarragona and Palafox streets

Just Beachy Painting with Pints – When: 3 to 5 p.m., Feb. 5 – Where: Coastal County Brewing Company, 3041 E. Olive Road

Valentine’s Date Night Beer Dinner – When: 6:30 p.m., Feb. 14 – Where: Coastal County Brewing Company, 3041 E. Olive Road

February 17th-28th on the Gulf Coast

Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Mardi Gras Parade – When: 7:30 p.m., Feb. 17 – Where: Downtown Pensacola

Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade – When: 2 p.m., Feb. 18 – Where: Downtown Pensacola

Mardi Gras at Odd Colony – When: 6 to 9 p.m., Feb. 18 – Where: Odd Colony Brewing Co., 260 N. Palafox St

Bud N’ Boilin’ Crawfish – When: 11 a.m., Feb. 18 – Where: O’Riley’s Irish Pub Downtown, 321 S. Palafox St

Krewe of Wrecks Parade – When: 2 to 11:30 p.m., Feb. 19 – Where: Pensacola Beach

Pensacola Arts Market – When: 2 to 6 p.m., Feb. 19 – Where: Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten, 208 Newman Ave

Pensacola Chocolate and Cheese Festival – When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Feb. 19 – Where: Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St

Hot Glass, Cold Brew: Krewe du Brew – When: 5 to 9 p.m., Feb. 24 – Where: First City Art Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St

Gallery Night Pensacola Steampunk – When: 5 to 9 p.m., Feb. 24 – Where: Downtown Pensacola

Pensacon – When: Feb. 24-26 – Where: Various venues in Downtown Pensacola

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra Presents Verdi Requiem – When: 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Feb. 25 – Where: Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox Place

Pensacola Habitat Food Truck Festival – When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Feb. 25; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Feb. 26 – Where: Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St

Contact us if you would like to tour homes in our beautiful area! We would be happy to discuss all the fun events!

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.

If you happen to be driving by on your way to something fun, don’t forget to stop by our Pointe South office for a list of available properties or to just say “hello!” We are always here to help! Call or email us today to begin your search!

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

10 Tips for Enjoying Cheese Lovers Day at Pointe South!

Cheese lovers day is a day to celebrate cheese and all things cheese related. It is a day to appreciate the variety of flavors and textures that cheese can bring to a dish, and to enjoy all the ways that cheese can be enjoyed. Whether you like soft and creamy cheeses, sharp and tangy ones, or something in between, cheese lover day is the perfect time to indulge in your favorite varieties. Some ideas for celebrating cheese lover day might include trying out new and interesting cheese recipes, visiting a local cheese shop or market, or simply enjoying some cheese on its own or with your favorite accompaniments.

cheese lovers, pensacola

Where should I buy the best cheese in Pensacola, Florida?

There are many places in Pensacola, Florida where cheese lovers can get their fix. Some options might include:
  1. Local cheese shops: These specialized stores often carry a wide variety of cheese from different regions and made from different types of milk. Some examples include: Four Winds Fine Foods Market, Ever’man Cooperative Grocery & Café Garden Street, and Chrisoula’s Cheesecake Shoppe and Café.
  2. Supermarkets: Many supermarkets carry a selection of cheese, including both domestic and imported varieties. Magee Field Grocery, Publix, Aldi and the Fresh Market are all great places to visit.
  3. Farmers’ markets: These markets often feature cheese from local producers, which can be a great way to support small businesses in the area. You’ll want to visit Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fisherman’s Market in Foley, Alabama.
  4. Specialty food stores: Stores like Whole Foods and other specialty food stores often have a wide selection of cheese, including both domestic and imported options. Costello’s Italian Deli, Butcher Shop, Four Winds Fine Foods is a fantastic option.
  5. Online retailers: You can also find cheese for sale online from retailers like Amazon, Murray’s Cheese, and others.

Charcuterie board for every meal? YES and THANK YOU!!!

A charcuterie board is a selection of cured meats, cheese, and other accompaniments that are arranged on a platter or board for serving. This is a cheese lovers dream and an absolutely amazing way to host a family, friends, or an open house event!

Here’s how you can create your own charcuterie board:

  1. Choose your meats: Select a variety of cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, and chorizo. Aim for a mix of flavors and textures.
  2. Pick your cheeses: Choose a selection of cheeses that have different flavors and textures, such as a soft cheese, a hard cheese, and a blue cheese. The examples above are great options to purchase from!
  3. Add some garnishes: Include some olives, pickles, and other small garnishes to add flavor and texture to the board.
  4. Include some spreads: Add some spreads such as mustard, jam, or honey to add depth of flavor to the board.
  5. Arrange the ingredients: Arrange the meats, cheeses, garnishes, and spreads on a large platter or cutting board, allowing plenty of space between the different items.
  6. Serve: Serve the charcuterie board with some crusty bread or crackers, and allow guests to enjoy the various items on the board as they like.

I recommend checking out a few different places to find the best selection and prices for the cheese you’re looking for. Let us know which are your favorites and post a picture of your charcuterie board!

If you are are thinking about listing your home, give us a call! We would be happy to host an open house with an amazing charcuterie board and wine!

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.

If you happen to be driving by on your way to something fun, don’t forget to stop by our Pointe South office for a list of available properties or to just say “hello!” We are always here to help! Call or email us today to begin your search!

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

Home Paint Colors: Most Popular Paint Colors of 2023

Sherwin-Williams color of the year.

Is it time to bring warm colors back into your home? So what are the colors of 2023? Well, Sherwin-Williams color of the year is called Resend Point, which has blush tones that create a cozy and calm environment. Sherwin-Williams says this color “celebrates restorative energy, well-being, and kindness.” We can all agree that walking into a home that promotes restorative energy, well-being, and kindness is a home we all want to be in!

Warm pink shades, such as blush or peach, can add a touch of warmth and coziness to a room. These color pallets are often associated with nature and can help create a sense of harmony and balance in a space. A good contrast is deep blue greens, such as teal or navy. These can add depth and richness to a room and make it feel more sophisticated! We all know how much we love teal and blue-greens! According to Southern Living, these soft reds will be everywhere in 2023!

Benjamin Moore color of the year.

Benjamin Moore’s color of 2023 is Raspberry Blush. I love this fun choice! Which is also a shade of warm coral pink. Other colors of the year include Savannah Green, North Sea Green (love it), New Age, Starry Night Blue, Wenge, Tofino Sunset (peachy pink), and Cinnamon. I enjoy how these stone-tone colors are creative and am excited to see how these colors are used. I also cannot help but think these colors yell out, “live here at the gulf coast!” What fun beach colors.

Is painting my home a trendy color a good choice?

You may be asking yourself; I would like to change the colors in my home to try North Sea Green or Starry Night Blue, but I am too nervous! What if it does not match my décor? Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore have peel-and-stick paint samples. I love this option as you only need to spend a little time painting the wall sample and then painting it back if you do not like it.

In addition, think about the natural light in the room and how it will affect the color. This step should not be overlooked. The same color can look very different in other rooms. Therefore, we recommend always testing the paint on your walls before committing to a final color.

It is also essential to remember that color trends come and go! What’s popular this year may not be popular when you are ready to list your home for sale or rent. Therefore, sometimes it is better to use a trendy color as an accent. This allows you to easily change the color scheme of your area as trends change without having to repaint the entire room.

Another option is to choose a neutral color for the walls and use color trends in accessories such as throw pillows, blankets, rugs, and artwork. This allows you to change the color scheme of your space with minimal effort and expense.

We can help you!

Even though trends change, we do not want you to be afraid of using a color other than white or grey. We love envisioning different colors on walls when touring homes! A fresh coat of paint makes such a difference and lifts your spirits! In addition, buyers and renters may be looking for specific color styles when searching listings on the internet.

In summary, using color trends to paint your home can be a great way to renew your space, but it’s also important to consider your style, the overall ambiance, and what will attract buyers or renters. We know choosing a color for your home or specific rooms can be tricky, and we would love to help you! So give us a call today; we would be happy to help!

850.492.1148 [email protected]

How to Create an Inviting Atmosphere for Your Photo Shoot

Are You getting ready to list your home for sale or for rent? Here are some important steps you can take to ensure beautiful pictures during your photo shoot.

Clean and Declutter

Cleaning and decluttering is 100% the most important step. Make sure your home is clean and free of clutter. Organizing will make the space look larger and more attractive to potential buyers. When a home appears to look messy, it sets the tone that the property is not well-maintained, which can be a turn-off for potential buyers.

On the other hand, a clean and organized home can make a good impression and help potential buyers envision themselves living there. Nicely made beds, fresh matching bathroom towels, and sheer neutral curtains help create a warm and cozy look. Fans will be turned off for photos, so try to have those cleaned. We want to do everything we can to attract the most offers or potential renters. We can recommend some incredible cleaning vendors who can help you!  

Stage the Space for your Photo Shoot

In addition to decluttering and cleaning, it may also be helpful to stage the interior of the home. This involves rearranging the furniture and décor to create a cohesive and welcoming look. Staging can help showcase the full potential of a home and make it more appealing to buyers. Anything that could potentially prevent someone from envisioning themselves in the home should be stored away.  If there’s going to be a room off-limits for storage, let the photographer know. Sometimes it is a good idea to get a storage unit to store the items you do not need. This comes in handy when it is time to move!

Professional photographers recommend removing towels and toiletry from the bathroom countertops and showers. Removing robes from behind the bathroom door in case it’s closed. Your should put personal family photos away; a few are okay. Make sure anything with your personal information is put away, like baby name plates. These usually contain a child’s full name and birthday, which is unsuitable for internet display. Finally, consider things you don’t want in the pictures, like gun safes, extra TVs, and excessive clothing.

Make the Necessary Repairs Before Your Photo Shoot

Fix any broken or damaged items in the home. This will show buyers and renters that the house has been well-maintained and is in good condition. Ensure your front door has a fresh coat of paint and is free of any debris. This is the first impression of walking into the home. We want the front door to “pop” in the pictures.

Improve Curb Appeal

Make sure the outside of the home looks as good as the inside. This includes mowing the lawn, trimming shrubs, fresh mulch, and planting flowers. In addition, if you have a large camper or an RV, consider moving it for the day to prevent shadows and make the space look bigger.

Make sure the pool is clean and free of leaves. A sparkling blue pool draws in buyers and renters! Your photographer can typically add green grass to exterior photos, but only if the home typically has green grass; we need to be truthful for the buyers. One uncommon idea that usually looks good is adding a couple of fake flowers to the hedges! No one can tell in the pictures!

Add Lighting

Make sure there is enough light in the home before your photo shoot. Turn on all the lights, open curtains and blinds, and consider adding additional lighting if necessary. Photographers recommend trying to have bright lighting that matches in hue (red/blue/yellow). We can help determine if more lighting is needed before picture day.

Timing of Photos

Morning or “golden hour” is the best time in general; it’s best to take photos when the sun is not directly shining on the front of the house. By doing so can create harsh shadows and make the colors look washed out. If the property faces east or west, it’s best to take photos in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is not directly in front of the house. If the property faces north or south, the best time to take photos is around midday when the lighting is more even. It’s also a good idea to refrain from taking pictures on overcast or cloudy days, as the lighting can be flat and unappealing. We will work with the photographer to ensure we have the perfect timing.

Oversaturating or Over Sharpening Pictures

We want to make sure the photographer doesn’t over-edit the photos. Too heavily edited pictures make the home look unrealistic and misleading to potential buyers and renters.

Do Not Stress!!!

This list may seem like a lot, but we are 100% here to help! So please turn on the music and make it fun! Photo shoots can be fun and it is exciting to see professional pictures of your home.

Getting ready to list your home for sale or to rent? Give us a call, and we can help guide you through the process. We have trusted and talented professional photographers that we love to work with. [email protected] ~ 850.492.1148

 

 

 

POINTE SOUTH ACHIEVEMENTS OF 2022 

WOW! We could not be prouder of our amazing Pointe South Team!

Our Pointe South professional Agents and Property Managers have surpassed their goals and expectations for 2022 ‼️

Check out these terrific stats:

Real Estate Achievements:

  • $145 Million
  • 270 Transactions

Property Management Achievements:

  • 108 NEW Properties added to our Property Management

We have been covering our Gulf Coast – From Alabama to Florida – From condos to homes and more. Our team sets out to find your perfect piece of land or sand. Above all, we have loved celebrating you this year, our amazing clients. We value your continued support and business, as none of this would be possible without YOU! We put in the work – a lot of work and even more heart. We exceeded professional goals, and our brokerage sales volume for the year at $145 million!

NOW WE CELEBRATE THE POINTE SOUTH DIFFERENCE $145M IN SALES, 270 TRANSACTIONS & 108 PROPERTIES ON OUR LONG-TERM LEASING PROGRAM!!!

achievements, pointe south

CHEERS to our hardworking, dedicated Team and the relationships they have made along the way.  Undoubtedly, we could not have done this without our unstoppable vendors.

Pointe South’s experience and passion bring great achievements! You can trust Pointe South to help you list your home and/or find your new perfect place to call home. Our Residential Leasing team is the best on the Gulf Coast! They can help you with all your rental needs and goals! Contact us today at [email protected] or visit us online at www.FORSALEONTHEGULFCOAST.com. We look forward to working with you!

Who Loves to Save Money?!?! How to Remove PMI Payments!

Who else LOVES to SAVE MONEY? You’ll love this real estate hack if you don’t already know.

No matter when you bought your house, if you did so with less than 20% down, your mortgage lender tacked on the extra cost of private mortgage insurance (PMI) as a standard precaution. ​​​​​​​​Removing PMI payments can be a significant way to save money in the long run. PMI is usually required when a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than 20% on their home purchase. Once the homeowner reaches 20% equity in their home through mortgage payments or home value appreciation, they can request the cancellation of PMI.

By eliminating PMI, homeowners can potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars annually. This extra money can be put towards paying off the mortgage faster, saving for future goals, or investing in other financial endeavors. It’s essential to stay updated on the value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage to determine when you’re eligible to remove PMI and start enjoying the financial benefits of doing so.

PMI, Remove pmi, mortgage

In addition, PMI typically only protects the lender in the event of a default. According to NerdWallet, PMI rates usually range from .58% to 1.86% of the original loan amount. So, for example, a $400,000 loan with 7.5% down would mean your PMI payment would be $305/month (with a 700-credit score).

Let’s Talk PMI

✔️ Confident that your house is worth more today than when you purchased it? ​​​​​​​​

✔️ Can I cancel PMI if my home value increases? ​​​​​​​​

✔️ When does PMI go away?​​​​​​​​

📝 Whether your individual mortgage qualifies for PMI removal will depend on factors like the current value of your home, the loan type, how much you still owe on the loan, and your payment history.​​​​​​​​ With the example above, it would take 8.66 years for the lender to remove this $300 monthly payment. So, you would be paying over $31,000! However, do not stress because there are ways to remove this sooner.  

How Can We Remove the PMI?

💰 In all honesty, the hot real estate market of 2021-2022 meant many homeowners saw their equity rise. Even though a market shift is underway as of late due to higher interest rates, many homeowners with mortgages will most likely be sitting on significant equity due to still-high home values. In Q2 2022, a report from CoreLogic shows that homeowners with mortgages saw an equity increase of nearly 27.8% year-over-year. CoreLogic forecasts an average rise in home prices of 4.3% between June 2022 and June 2023.​​​​​​​​

💼 As a result of this trend, NOW would be a good time for many borrowers to see if they qualify for private mortgage insurance cancellation. A higher equity stake in your home can lower the perceived risk of your mortgage and, in some cases, speed up the path to PMI removal.​​​​​​​​ See! We told you not to stress!

In addition, because PMI can add tens of thousands of dollars in housing costs over the life of a loan, it’s essential to consider taking steps to remove PMI as soon as you’re eligible.​​​​​​​​

Long story short… 😉… reach out to me anytime for a CMA! Our team would love to have coffee (or a margarita) with you to discuss it further.  Pointe South is always looking for ways to save our customers money!

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.

Here is to saving money in 2023!!!

[email protected] ~ 850.492.1148

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