Did you know the Lake City area was once called “Alligator”? While not the only swamp animal native to northern Florida, alligators tend to get more press than many others do. Since settling the area, we humans have learned to coexist with the native wildlife. Indeed, enjoying the local flora and fauna is a popular […]
Moving In? Do This First
If you’re like most people, moving in to your new home is the culmination of all your hard work finding and purchasing the house or condominium of your dreams. Most likely, you can’t wait to get your belongings moved in so you can get settled. However, there are a few things you might consider doing […]
Tax Breaks for Homeowners: You Could Be Eligible!
While you probably already know that most homeowners are entitled to certain tax privileges, you may not know exactly what they are – but here’s a quick breakdown of the tax advantages to owning a home. Remember, though, we’re North Florida Realtors®, not tax professionals. You should always consult a tax professional for specific tax […]
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before You Buy a Home
If you’re buying a home, you probably already know that lenders want to see that you’re capable of repaying a loan before they’ll give you money to do so – and that means they want to evaluate your payment habits, find out whether you have revolving credit lines, and check on your overall credit health. […]
From Renting to Owning: Tips for Apartment Dwellers
If you’re like many people, you’ve been living in an apartment while you wait for the right time to buy a house – but how are you supposed to know when it’s the “right” time, and what happens if you wait too long? Buying Your First Home Buying your first home is an emotional experience. […]
Do I Need Mortgage Insurance?
Unlike other forms of insurance you might buy, mortgage insurance doesn’t protect you; it protects your lender. However, that doesn’t mean it may not be to your benefit. Mortgage insurance reduces the risk to the lender, meaning you may be able to qualify for a loan with less than 20 percent of the home’s purchase price […]
Getting Financing: Tips for First-Time Home Buyers
If you’re like many first-time buyers, you’re not quite sure about the whole process – but don’t worry: nobody is. So what should you do to make the whole home-buying process easier? Tips for First-Time Home Buyers Before you begin looking at Lake City homes for sale, check your credit. That’s because your credit is […]
How to Save Money for a Down Payment on North Florida Property
If you’re like most people, you don’t have a pile of money sitting in your bank account for a down payment on a home in Lake City, an equestrian property or any other type of residence – but saving up for a down payment is tough. What are you supposed to do? Tips for Saving […]
What Do Home Inspectors Look For?
When you’re buying a home, your Realtor® will advise you to hire a talented home inspector who can evaluate the property to ensure you’re making a good investment. Most people already know that hiring an inspector is essential – but what, exactly, are inspectors looking for when they evaluate a home? What Do Home Inspectors […]
Should You Invest in a Rental Property in North Florida?
The New York Times recently published a story about millennials investing in rental properties, and some of the things they uncovered were surprising – including the fact that many millennials (people born between the early 1980s to the early 2000s) can afford to buy their own homes and live in them… but they’re choosing to […]