When most people think of a home inspection, they think of someone checking a home for code violations. This is not actually the case, though. Homes built in the 1960s would generally not hold up to the code of today, so judging all homes on the same code is not a fair practice. Instead, a home inspection focuses on the components of each home and determines whether those particular components are safe.
Read MoreDuring the home buying process, there are many different things to know. One of them is the difference between a mortgage broker and a mortgage banker, and how each can affect your home buying experience. A mortgage banker is limited to offering only the products and rates of that bank. If these products and rates do not fit the consumer, they must move onto another lender or take the less favorable conditions. Additionally, most banks require that you fit into a certain mold- a mold that many people do not fit.
Read MoreWith those that want a mortgage loan there are tons of benefits to using a local mortgage banker. One of the biggest benefits to using a local bank is that they know the area and they know the needs for the properties that you are buying. After all, they live in the area and they know what each mortgage needs and what you need to get a great mortgage for your property.
Read MoreThe right home insurance policy can help to protect your Florida Keys home from every day issues but can also help to protect your home from much larger and out of the ordinary problems. For those in an area like Monroe County, the right insurance policy can certainly go a long way. Learning about some of the basic types of insurance needed and what helps to determine overall premiums can help you to better understand what insurance needs your property might have.
Read MoreThe median price of a home in Key West is around $600,000 today. Key West real estate, especially in the historic area, is highly sought after and always in demand. While there is still some undeveloped land available, it is pricey. The development has been extended to nearly smaller islands, reachable only by private boat. Although living "near" Key West is not the same experience as living "in" Key West, many prospective buyers prefer that option.
Read MoreThe pristine beauty of Big Pine centers on the water; most of the homes are situated on secluded waterfront lots, and there are no fast-food restaurants or shopping malls and little commercialization. Big Pine Key, which sports tantalizing vistas of ocean and untamed land, is the epitome of island living, with little to distract from the pleasures of sun, sea, surf and blue sky. This is an island almost totally focused on nature and relaxation.
Read MoreMarathon Florida real estate is some of the most reasonably-priced in the Florida Keys, with the median sales price for a condo just under $535,000. Individual homes on the water can reach into the multi-million dollar range, but desirable property in Marathon can be found for under $500,000. It depends, of course, what size and features you seek, but Marathon offers the best of "small-town" living in a somewhat exotic atmosphere. The lifestyle advantages of location, convenience, beauty and access to diverse activities are hard to beat.
Read MoreDuck Key represents what is arguably some of the best real estate in the entire chain of islands. The 60-acre island has great ocean views, palm trees, a secluded aura and is viewed as the epitome of the tropical lifestyle, as well as a haven from the rest of the world. Duck Key feels somewhat European with landscaped canals and a multitude of architecturally-interesting bridges. However, only one road leads onto Duck Key, making it ideal for those who seek unmatched security and privacy in an upscale residential enclave.
Read MoreFamous as a world-renowned sportfishing destination as well as a premier diving center, Islamorada has a number of resort hotels, lodges, spas and marinas. Islamorada real estate options include condos and apartments, attractive single-family homes and lavish estates in approximately 50 individualized neighborhoods. As on all the islands, waterfront property commands premium prices, whether it's on the ocean or the bay. Recent prices for Islamorada homes ranged from a low of $229,900 to a high of $18 million.
Read MoreAn unincorporated community just south of the city of Key Largo, Tavernier has special appeal for anyone who loves nature, small towns and a laid-back lifestyle. With a population of just over 2,100 and a median home value of nearly $400,000, it is a relatively well-to-do community with almost no unemployment.
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