Optima Properties' Blog

Tariffs, particularly on building materials like lumber, steel, and appliances, are expected to increase construction costs and potentially lead to higher home prices, impacting both new home construction and renovations.Redfin reported that instability caused by the new tariffs will almost certa...

Most people relocate to South Florida for a few reasons. Retirement, job opportunity, second home, tax savings, lifestyle, and to be closer to family to name just a few.Relocating to a new state or region can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to settling into an unfamiliar community. Wh...

With the recent “disasters” nationwide, it has become clear to me that very few homeowners understand that they need to ensure that their policies cover replacement cost for their homes.  To ensure that you can rebuild your house at the current market costs and codes, you MUST have replacement co...

Most people relocate to South Florida for a few reasons. Retirement, job opportunity, second home, tax savings, lifestyle, and to be closer to family to name just a few. Moving to a new state or region can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to settling into an unfamiliar community. Wheth...

A new Florida law requires people who sell their home must disclose to buyers if they’ve ever filed a flood insurance claim or received federal assistance related to flood damage. It currently applies to homeowners and excludes landlords.Before HB-1049, property owners and real estate agents sell...

Approximately 50% of Floridians live in communities governed by homeowners associations (HOAs), sometimes referred to a property owners associations (POAs). These associations, which govern various aspects of community living, such as property maintenance and shared amenities, can provide numerou...

 n exclusive buyer’s agent (EBA)is hired to help you with a big monetary decision, which is also a big personal decision. There is a wide variety in the quality of that fiduciary (financial) advice you will get, depending on the agent you choose.An EBA is required to help their client get the bes...

A recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that energy-efficient features are among the most sought-after “must-haves” among homebuyers. Among those surveyed, 83% desired Energy Star-rated windows, 81% wanted Energy Star-rated appliances and 80% preferred energy-e...

For now, economic signals suggest more positive news for buyers in 2024 though no experts are forecasting a return to 3% rates anytime soon. More likely, we will see the 30-year mortgage rate decline closer to 6% according to forecasts from the Mortgage Bankers Association and the National Associ...

NAR economist Yun predicts home sales will begin to rise next year – by 13.5% compared to 2023, and the median home price will reach $389,500 – an increase of 0.9% from this year. “Metro markets in southern states will likely outperform others due to faster job increases, while markets in the Mid...