Buying A Condo Is Not As Easy As It SeemsBuying a condo is easy or so you would think.    We see it in commercials and ads all the time.   They say, go online and apply for a mortgage - one, two, three.  What they don't tell you is real estate is local.From my experience as a buyer's agent in Boca Raton, I'm telling you it's not so.Buying a condo is not as easy as it appears.With all the publicity about the NAR settlements in the news, buyers are hearing all sorts of things these days.  They're thinking, We can go online and buy a condo. Who needs a buyer's agent? Let's apply for a loan online and just call the listing agent.After 20 years as a full-time Realtor and retired Court Reporter in Boca Raton, I'm here to tell you you need representation.  More than you realize.   You need a g... 09/15/2024

Finding the right pet-friendly neighborhood in Boca Raton is crucial for pet owners who want the best for their furry companions. Boca Raton offers a variety of communities that cater to the needs of pets and their owners, providing amenities and environments that enhance the quality of life for all.Finding the Perfect Pet-Friendly Neighborhood in Boca RatonWhen you're looking for a pet-friendly neighborhood in Boca Raton, it's not just about finding a place where pets are allowed. It's about finding a community where pets are welcomed and catered to with thoughtful amenities and services. This guide explains the following: Identifying pet-friendly amenities Understanding community pet policies Exploring outdoor spaces for pets Considering pet services and businesses Engaging with the ... 06/08/2024

BUYING A HOUSE IS NOT AS EASY AS IT SEEMS  Everyone thinks buying a house is easy.  I can do it myself.  They said so online is what many buyers are thinking today.With all the publicity about the NAR Settlements in the news, buyers are hearing all sorts of things.  They're thinking, We can go online and just buy a house. Who needs a buyer's agent? Let's call the listing agent.After 20 years as a full-time Realtor and retired Court Reporter in Boca Raton, I'm here to tell you you need a buyer's agent.  More than you realize.   You need a great buyer's agent. Why?Because real estate is local.  It doesn't just happen as you see online or on TV.  They make it sound so easy.  Trust me, It's not!  Stories of a Buyer's AgentI'm going to share some real stories to show you why real estate is l... 06/01/2024

20970 VIA JASMINE 1 HAS A 2-CAR GARAGE  20970 Via Jasmine 1Boca Raton, FL 33428MLS # RX-10952664$ 609,000  Welcome to this beautiful townhouse in Las Flores in west Boca Raton.    This spacious home features 4 bedrooms, 2-car garage and over 2300 air-conditioned square feet. This lushly-landscaped corner home has a screened-in patio enclosure that was added just a few years ago.   It's the perfect spot for relaxing, hanging out or enjoying a meal outdoors.    Upon entering the home, you are greeted by a foyer surrounded by a large walk-in closet with extra storage space under the stairs, and a half bath.      The eat-in kitchen has white cabinets, granite countertops and stainless appliances.   And a large window with lots of light.  Natural light fills this townhouse.  The primary bedr... 01/30/2024

Simple Act of KindnessWhen I lost Corrie in March, I had just refilled her medications.  And she was on a lot of them.  Her heart medication was the most expensive, and I had two sealed bottles of it.I thought about what to do with them.  Some of the other meds were from the pharmacy in prescription bottles.  I was hesitant to give to those to people I didn't know, but the heart medication was factory sealed in boxes.I decided to put a post up on NextDoor.   At the time, the Vetmedin sold for about $ 76 for 50 pills, for a dog Corrie's size.  So I figured I'd ask $ 100 for the two bottles and see what happened.A woman contacted me asking about them.  We texted back and forth.  She had an older dog she had inherited after the owner passed away.  The dog was taking Vetmedin and she could ... 12/16/2023

An Attitude of Gratitude:  Thankful for My Clients One of the best parts of my business are the people I've met along the way, many of who have become real friends.In court reporting, I met people on depositions daily, but I didn't get to spend time with them.  Especially because in those days I wasn't allowed to speak, except maybe on a break.  I was too busy writing and making sure I had everything I needed, like spellings of words or names, to put a transcript together.In real estate, I meet people and develop relationships all the time.  It may start with a text, phone call or email because of a blog they came across.  Sometimes it's a referral from a past client, friend or colleague. However it happens, I have a chance to get to know this person who is looking to buy or sell a home... 11/24/2023

For countless families, pets are more than just animals—they're cherished members of the household, part of the family. When looking for a new home, ensuring your furry, feathered, or scaly friend has the comfort and amenities they deserve is crucial. In the bustling city of Boca Raton, you might be wondering which properties cater best to the unique needs of pet owners. Worry not!  We've got you covered.Pet-Friendly Properties: A Guide to Finding the Perfect HomeBoca Raton, with its blend of stunning coastal views and sophisticated urban lifestyle, is an exciting place to call home. For pet owners, there's an added layer of considerations to keep in mind. You're not just looking for a home for you but for your beloved pets too. This guide covers: Amenities to look for in pet-friendly h... 11/06/2023

Living in or visiting Boca Raton has its privileges. One of the city's most charming features is its vibrant parks and nature reserves. These tranquil spaces provide a perfect escape for residents and tourists looking to immerse themselves in Florida's unique ecosystem.Must-Visit Parks and Nature Preserves in Boca RatonBoca Raton boasts an impressive selection of parks and nature preserves that cater to nature enthusiasts, families, and individuals seeking solace in the great outdoors. Whether you're into bird or turtle watching, ball playing, beaches, or simply relaxing, there's something for everyone. This guide covers: Gumbo Limbo Nature Center Sugar Sand Park Red Reef Park Spanish River Park Yamato Scrub Natural Area Here’s a closer look at each.Gumbo Limbo Nature CenterRight in the... 10/16/2023

Guide to Financing Your Home in Boca Raton FL Buying a home is often the most significant investment you'll make in your lifetime. And while Boca Raton offers a wide variety of property options for every budget, understanding the ins and outs of home financing is crucial.Guide to Financing Your Home in Boca RatonIf you're considering a property in Boca Raton, knowing your financing options can make the journey smoother. From understanding the types of mortgages available to exploring local incentives, the right knowledge can set you on the path to ownership without the added stress. This guide covers: Understanding different mortgage types The importance of credit scores Exploring down payments Local incentives and grants Working with mortgage brokers Here’s a closer look at each.Unders... 10/02/2023

Your Pets are Good for YouYour pets are good for you.  I've been saying it for years.  Now it's been proven by the medical professionals.  So it begs the question, why then are pets restricted in so many communities in south Florida.  And that's a very good question, one which I wish I had the answer to.   But that’s a topic I know I've written about many times.  PHYSICAL ACTIVITYMost dogs go outside to do their business. Walking is great exercise for your dog and for you.  It’s good for their healthy and yours.   Of course, please check with your doctor first before starting any walking regimen.  But if you have a dog, hopefully, you’re going to walk the dog.  With that twice-or-more daily walk, you are both getting physical exercise.  And that’s a good thing!  SOCIALIZATIONDogs are so... 09/22/2023

It seems every time I talk to Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, I get off the phone with an idea for a blog.  Last night she asked me, So do you have an idea for a blog?  I told her no, and I really didn't.  But lo and behold, an hour later, I did. So here goes.   This month Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400 and John Meussner want to know what makes you exceptional as an agent.  I think there are two things that make me stand out from my peers in real estate.  The first goes my back to my parents.  They were truly people of integrity who taught me to do the right thing.   The second goes back to my years as a Court Reporter.  In Court Reporting, things have to be done a certain way - the right way.  Transcripts have to go out as near perfect as possible so they don't read (phonet... 07/24/2023

Just Sold!  Pet-Friendly Country Club | Boca Raton FL Congratulations to the buyers on this beautiful pool home with golf course views in Boca Woods Country Club!Oh, and did I mention it's also pet friendly?  You bet!  So the buyers can bring their beautiful dog along with them to enjoy their new Florida home.  The house has two bedrooms, two baths and a den. Boca Woods has two golf course courses, seven Har-Tru tennis courts, pickle ball, bocce ball, fitness center, spa services, card rooms, and clubhouse with dining.Take a look at these views.      07/05/2023

6 Tips for a pet-friendly houseFollowing are some tips for finding and setting up a pet-friendly home.  We love our pets so, naturally, we want them to be safe as well as comfortable. After all, they're family!  IS THE COMMUNITY PET FRIENDLYIf you're looking to buy a new home, the first thing to check is if the community or condo is pet friendly to your pet.  Will it accept your cat?  Will it accept your Goldendoodle or your two German Shepherds?  This is definitely your starting point.  Once you've narrowed down a community, check to see if there are veterinarians, groomers, pet stores, dog parks, dog beaches, whatever it is you may need within a reasonable distance.  You don't want to buy a home only to find out the closest vet is over an hour away.  That would be nightmare in an emer... 04/19/2023

8 Tips to Get Rid of Pet Odors Here are 8 tips to get rid of pet odors.  We may not notice them but, trust me, they're there.  We tend not to notice pet odors on a day-to-day basis because we live with them.  Believe me, I'm in this group with you.   If you're thinking of selling your home, you need to realize not everyone feels the way we do about our pets.  Many people are allergic and they're sensitive to animals odors, or they just may not care for them. You should take care of this before you list your house for sale.  Don't wait until someone complains.  Don't give them a reason to complain.  The object is to get your house sold.  AIR YOUR HOME OUTTip # 1:  Air your home out.  Open windows.  Run your air conditioner.  Get the air circulating, and have your air conditioner professi... 04/10/2023

03/10/2023

Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House in Boca Raton Is now a good time to buy a house?  The answer is yes, it is a good time to buy a house or a condo or whatever you're looking for.  Let me explain.The past 18 months have been tough on buyers.  They were dealing with multiple offers, short showing periods on weekends, offers due by Sunday night.  Highest and best.  Buyers were being forced to waive contingencies they normally wouldn't.   It was really rough on them.As a result, many buyers had had enough.  You can push a buyer just so far.  Some buyers left Boca Raton and the surrounding areas for other areas, while others took a break. MORE INVENTORYHowever, the tables are turning.   We now have more inventory than we've seen in a long time.  Not in every community, but in many communitie... 07/16/2022

5 Newer Pet Friendly Gated Communities in Boca Raton & Delray Beach   People are interested in newer pet-friendly gated communities in Boca Raton and Delray Beach that were built by GL Homes. There are 5 newer gated communities, and they are all pet-friendly.These 5 communities are built out.  There are only resales now.  These are the 5 newer communities along Lyons Rd in Boca Raton and Delray Beach people are referring to. THE BRIDGES IS PET FRIENDLYThe Bridges was the first of the newer gated communities to be built along Lyons Rd.  I've already introduced you to The Bridges, so let's talk about the rest of them.   SEARCH HOMES FOR SALE IN THE BRIDGES SEVEN BRIDGES IS PET FRIENDLYSeven Bridges is a gated community with approximately 700 homes in Delray Beach.  It is directly across t... 07/07/2022

Is Now a Good Time to Sell My House   People are asking:   Is now a good time to sell my house?  The answer is yes, now is a good time to sell your house.There are many moving parts to what is going on in the world today, and what is going on in your world today.  Let's take a look.  WHY IT'S A GOOD TIME TO SELLThe market is different than it was three months or four months ago.  The real estate market is even different than it was one month ago. We are still in a seller’s market, but there has been a shift.  It's a subtle shift, but it's there.  For the most part, houses are not selling in a day, nor are they getting 15 or 20 offers in a weekend.  The insanity, that was all too common this past winter, seems to have subsided some.I’m starting to see some price drops, and some homes tha... 06/16/2022

Tips for Being a Good Pet NeighborIf you have a pet, here are some tips for being a good pet neighbor.  After all, who needs to have problems with your neighbors?  That's the last thing you need.Along with owning a pet comes the responsibility of being a good pet neighbor.  LEASH YOUR DOGMake sure your dog is on a leash before you leave your house.  In other words, don't open your garage door without having your dog's leash on first and in your hand.   Seems simple, but it happens.  Some counties have a leash law.   Palm Beach County is one that does.  Know the laws where you live.  If you live in a pet friendly gated community or a pet friendly 55+ gated community, they also have rules with regard to leashing your dogs. TRAIN YOUR DOGTrain your dog.  Some dogs don't get along well with... 06/08/2022

7 Great Tips For Getting Your House Ready To SellHere are 7 great tips for getting your house ready to sell.  Preparing to sell your home takes a bit of work, but it's worth it.  Clean, updated homes sell better, faster and for more money.   You want your home to look its best.  Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression.  TIP # 1:  CURB APPEALClean up the outside.  Rake dead leaves and trash out from between and around the bushes.  There is nothing worse than seeing trash as you're walking in to see a house. Plant some pretty flowers and trim  back hedges and trees, if needed.  Paint the front door.  Make it look inviting.  I can't tell you how many complaints I get from buyers who say, They're selling their house and they can't even paint the front door!  Power wash ... 06/03/2022