Why You Should Hire a Buyer’s Agent

iStock_000020499093Medium-347x459Are you thinking about buying a home or condo for sale in Gulf Shores? Better question, are you thinking about going it alone? With the Interent at your fingertips, how hard could it be? Technology has created a “DIY” mentality, but the truth is even with the tons of information provided, the internet is not always accurate. Now the question becomes, can you decipher the difference between what is and what isn’t? Keep in mind a significant chunk of change is on the table…

If you’re not already starting to reconsider enlisting the help of a buyer’s agent, here are a few more reasons to nudge you in the right direction.

For starters you may have noticed that they save you time. Not only that, but they have the insider’s scoop. This is because they are in contact with a professional network of agents and often know of properties before they hit the online listing sites. The benefits don’t stop there. From negotiations and paperwork to a list of service providers, agents can save you time, stress and costly mistakes.

Are you interested in learning more about how our team of Florida and Alabama real estate agents can assist you with your future home purchase? Call 850.492.1826 to get in touch with one today!

Real Estate Agents and Finances

iStock_000020499093Medium-347x459Money is sensitive subject. How much we earn and how much we owe is information we prefer to keep close to the vest. So, what do you do when you are ready to buy a condo in Perdido Key? And how much does your real estate agent really need to know?

The truth is there really is no need to worry. The client/agent relationship is vested in privacy, this includes the intimate details of your personal finances. Real estate agents don’t expect you to disclose everything, and they don’t need you to either. All they need is the bottom line, that is your overall situation to help you find a home within your budget.

An agent’s job is to negotiate a home purchase on your behalf, covering everything from home values to neighborhood features. Home financing is a separate issue from the home search and rests in the hands of your mortgage lender. They are the ones who will need access to your recent pay stubs, tax returns and bank statements. Your Realtor needs your lender-generated preapproval letter.

If you have more questions about buying a home, contact our real estate agents at Pointe South. Our professionals will be happy to help you navigate the process until you have found that perfect place to call home.

All About Your Homeowner’s Insurance

floodWhen we hear the word “insurance” we are left dwelling on the potentially negative thoughts of what COULD happen, and while not as exciting as living in your Northwest Florida home, it is important to safeguard it.

Luckily, here on the Gulf Coast, we do not typically have to deal with freezing rain and ice storms, however, we do have a significant storm season that should come into play when it comes to protecting your home. If disaster strikes, the last thing you should have to worry about is money. Your focus should be on reclaiming home security and mental stability.

That being said, there are some things you should know about your homeowner’s insurance. First of all you should know what it covers, and for that matter what it does not. In the event of certain storms, fire and vandalism, a typical policy will pay for damages. What is not covered depends on the area and the agency supplying your insurance. A general policy seems to exclude earth movements (landslides and earthquakes), faulty zoning and flooding.

Given our location’s attraction to hurricanes and flooding seeking supplemental insurance is the best way to ensure your homes safety in the event of a disaster.

While it may seem pessimistic to harp on, it is important to protect yourself and your investment from some of life’s biggest surprises.

Bathroom Storage Tricks

If you are renting, the amount of liberty you face with remodeling is limited. Big-ticket items like vanity replacements over pedestal sinks may be out of the question, but there are some do-it-yourself tricks within your lease agreement to achieve the maximum amount of bathroom storage.

Utilize the space over your toilet. Often this space is underutilized. Shallow shelves and cabinets leave enough room to easily access the toilet but function well enough for the extra bathroom necessities.

Additionally, hanging hooks behind the door are great for robes and clothing. If you are opting for a space to hang your wet towel, look into placing a towel bar for the needed support. Do not forget you have space above the door, a perfect spot for a shelf for all kinds of bathroom fixings. For supplementary shower storage, look for an organizer. You can also look to installing a medicine cabinet. It may intrude slightly into your already small bathroom, but will fit the extra necessities you have.

Ultimately, the best way to get the most space for your not so big bathroom is to use less stuff. Really, that is the first rule of organization in general.