Sarasota is a beautiful natural paradise, and this town attracts people who love the outdoors and are largely committed to staying active and healthy. The opening of several new kayak launches , as well as the Legacy Trail,all speak to that. The newest hot restaurants in town include Lonjevity Cafe, a vegetarian and health food restaurant which boasts downright tasty entrees. What's next? Green real estate!
There are many designations that a realtor can obtain. They include specialization in second home purchases, resort properties, even international buyers. All of these have special significance in the Sarasota market, which is why we are dedicated to educating ourselves on all these specializations. The latest achievement recognizes the growing awareness of our customers of environmental issues and how they affect quality of life.
The Green designation certifies that your Realtor has awareness and knowledge of green building principles specifically applied in residences. They have been schooled in how to guide buyer-clients in purchasing and retrofitting green homes, as well as becoming an advocate for greener homes in the community. They have knowledge of the cost/benefit value of green homes and features, resource-efficient home systems, appliances, building methods and materials, benefits of an energy audit, sources of VOCs and toxins that impact indoor air quality and the environment
William True, Broker, is one of the first Realtors to earn this important and relevant new designation, proving once again our dedication to ongoing education to the benefit of our clients.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Top 5 Reasons to Buy a Home in 2009
For every realtor that says its time to buy, there is someone calling us opportunists and liars. I understand there is a lot of fear in the market and the economy. However, investment in a home, under the right conditions and if qualified, is still a smart move. What are the right conditions?
1) Ample inventory - you've heard this one before. But why is this important, really? It's simple supply and demand. If one seller is not willing to negotiate , the next one may well be. With far more sellers than buyers, the seller is loathe to let a buyer get away, giving buyers ultimate bargaining power.
2) Low interest rates - Buying an affordable home at a high interest rate cancels out the savings. Buying an affordable home at a low interest rate is the optimum situation, and its where we are now. Having a low interest rate can save you more money over the long run than buying a cheaper home - having both variables in your favor is the best of all worlds.
3) Buy vs. Rent - in the Sarasota metro area, it is now proving to be cheaper, monthly, to buy a home than to rent. Many people cite fear of employment instability in the future as a reason not to buy. However, in either scenario, you have a cash outlay every month. If it is cheaper to pay a mortgage rather than rent - and it buys you equity in a long term investment - it seems the practical way to go.
4) Tax Incentives - The Federal first time home buyer tax incentive is a great reason not to put off your purchase. Complete the transaction on your new home by November 30, 2009 and you are eligible to receive up to $8,000 back as a tax credit. The program is for first time home buyers , or people who have not owned a home in the prior three years. It is retroactive to homes purchased from January 1, 2009 but it does expire soon.
5) Closing Cost Credit - The same Federal program can be used against your closing costs, greatly reducing your out-of-pocket when you purchase a home.
1) Ample inventory - you've heard this one before. But why is this important, really? It's simple supply and demand. If one seller is not willing to negotiate , the next one may well be. With far more sellers than buyers, the seller is loathe to let a buyer get away, giving buyers ultimate bargaining power.
2) Low interest rates - Buying an affordable home at a high interest rate cancels out the savings. Buying an affordable home at a low interest rate is the optimum situation, and its where we are now. Having a low interest rate can save you more money over the long run than buying a cheaper home - having both variables in your favor is the best of all worlds.
3) Buy vs. Rent - in the Sarasota metro area, it is now proving to be cheaper, monthly, to buy a home than to rent. Many people cite fear of employment instability in the future as a reason not to buy. However, in either scenario, you have a cash outlay every month. If it is cheaper to pay a mortgage rather than rent - and it buys you equity in a long term investment - it seems the practical way to go.
4) Tax Incentives - The Federal first time home buyer tax incentive is a great reason not to put off your purchase. Complete the transaction on your new home by November 30, 2009 and you are eligible to receive up to $8,000 back as a tax credit. The program is for first time home buyers , or people who have not owned a home in the prior three years. It is retroactive to homes purchased from January 1, 2009 but it does expire soon.
5) Closing Cost Credit - The same Federal program can be used against your closing costs, greatly reducing your out-of-pocket when you purchase a home.
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