First Florida Group

Thinking about buying a newly built home? Here’s why you shouldn’t forego a real estate agent:

✅ Guidance — We can help you think through priorities like location, lot type, home design, resale value, and more.

✅ Knowledge — We know the local market, what homes are worth, and which builders have the best reputations for quality and speed.

✅ Advocacy — We can help you avoid pitfalls and negotiate for a better price or upgrades, so you get more for your money.

✅ Expertise — We can help coordinate your purchase and minimize any unwanted surprises.

Thinking about buying new construction? Reach out for a free home buyer’s consultation.

Making New Year’s resolutions? Make a few for your home ⬇️

🚰 Drain your hot water heater- Over time, hot water heaters can accumulate a layer of sediment (especially in Florida where we tend to have hard water), leading to clogs and malfunctions. We know it’s hot in Florida but we doubt anyone wants a cold shower!

🚨 Replace smoke alarm batteries- Regardless of how your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors perform in their quarterly tests, you should stick a set of fresh batteries in every year.

​👚 Clean your dryer vent- Dryer vents that are not maintained or that get clogged can cause a house fire. There are also kits that provide easy means to sweep out all that vent dust or you can hire a professional company

❄️ Have your A/C serviced- People up north might be able to get away with servicing their HVAC system less frequently than Floridians, but that’s because they don’t need it as much. In the summer, with the humidity and heat, homes can reach degrees of 90+. You don’t want to be stuck inside a home that is hotter than outside. A/C companies can come out and inspect your system, warn you of potential issues, and make recommendations.

🌪️ Check your hurricane supplies- In Florida, it is always best to be prepared. If you have a generator, make sure it’s working and that you have a good gas supply for it. Check for batteries, flashlights, a weather radio, water jugs, and canned food. If you like to use plywood for windows, make sure they fit properly. Checking for these supplies (and refilling them if needed) is just as important as the other things you would do to maintain your home.

Need professional help getting your home ready for the year ahead? Reach out for a referral!

Have you ever thought about buying a foreclosed home?

Foreclosures are often sold below market value, so you can save significantly on the initial purchase. However, they can end up costing more in the long run if they require costly repairs.

Here are 3 things to consider before you decide:

🏚️ Foreclosures are typically sold as-is, meaning the seller bears no liability for any problems.

👀 You may be unable to tour the home or have an inspection before purchasing.

🛠️ Foreclosed homes often need extensive repairs due to long-term vacancy or neglect.

Buying a foreclosure can be both risky and rewarding. Reach out to us directly to discuss all of the options available in our market. Let us help you make an informed decision and score a great deal.