Closing on a Florida Keys home?

Closing on a Florida Keys home is a significant step in the real estate process. You have a choice between using an attorney or a title company to facilitate the closing. Typically, real estate agents in the Florida Keys recommend their clients to work with local attorneys for a smooth closing process, but ultimately, the decision is yours.

Attorney or Title Company: Whats the Difference?

Attorney:

• Attorneys can offer legal advice and protect your interests during the closing process.
• They can assist with complex legal issues and contractual matters.
• Hiring an attorney may provide added peace of mind, especially for unique cases.
• Charge More than a title company

Title Company:

• Title companies specialize in ensuring a clean title for your property.
• They handle the title search, insurance, and the closing process efficiently.
• Title companies can streamline the process, often with lower costs compared to attorneys.

Funds at Closing:

No matter if you opt for an attorney or a title company, it’s crucial to prepare for the financial aspect of closing. It’s important to note that your real estate agent does not handle the disbursements; this responsibility falls to the closing agent.

• Closing Statement: Prior to the closing, you’ll receive a Closing Disclosure or Settlement Statement. This document outlines all the financial details of the transaction

• Bank Information: Before the closing, you will provide the attorney or the title company with your bank information so that they can facilitate the wire transfer of your funds.

Signing the Paperwork: In-Person or Mail-Away?”

When it comes to the final steps of a Florida Keys home closing, there’s one task that often stands out – signing the paperwork. But how do you prefer to handle this crucial step – in-person or by mail? Let’s explore both options:

In-Person Signing:

• The traditional choice involves meeting at a designated location
• In-person signings offer a personal touch and the opportunity to address any last-minute questions or concerns.

Mail-Away Signing:

Since most of our buyers and sellers do not live in the Florida Keys many of our closings are done by mail.

• Documents are sent to you, and you sign and return them.
• This option provides flexibility, especially if you’re unable to attend the closing in person.
• It’s convenient but may lack the face-to-face interaction of an in-person signing.
• Documents need to be FedExed out a few days before closing so that they come back in time.
• Make sure you tell your closing agent beforehand that you will not be attending the closing.

Ultimately, the choice between in-person or mail-away signing depends on your preferences and circumstances. Your convenience and peace of mind are of utmost importance in the closing process.

Closing day as a seller of your Florida Keys home brings a mix of emotions. Handing over the keys to the new owner signifies the end of an era and the start of a new chapter. The Florida Keys’ natural beauty, with its tropical charm, surrounds you, offering a fond farewell to a beloved property. This moment marks not just a sale but a parting of memories. With the closing process complete, it’s a time to reflect and embrace the journey ahead, knowing that new adventures and horizons await.

Have questions about Closings. Give us a call.

Also check out our Sellers Page for more important information on selecting a Marathon, Florida Realtor

Florida Keys Homes: A Seller’s Guide to Buyer’s Financing

So, you’ve received an offer on your property, but what if it’s contingent upon financing? What does that mean for you as a seller? In this blog post, we’ll explore the different aspects of a financing offer.

Preapproval vs. Prequalification

When a buyer makes an offer, they typically submit either a preapproval or a prequalification. One is better than the other:

Prequalification is like the first step for homebuyers. It’s a quick process where you provide basic financial information to a lender. It gives you a rough idea of what you might afford, but it’s not a guarantee because it’s based on unverified information.

Pre-Approval, on the other hand, is more serious. The lender checks your credit, income, and documents. It’s a strong sign that you can get a mortgage. Sellers prefer it because it shows commitment and the ability to secure financing. In places like the Florida Keys, it’s a smart move for a smoother home-buying process.

Florida Keys Home Lender

On the prequalification or preapproval, there will also be the lender’s contact information. An experienced real estate agent has connections with local lenders. They know who can get the job done and who might encounter difficulties. Your agent can provide valuable insights based on their past dealings with a particular lender, helping you feel confident in your choice.

Calling the Lender

Did you know that the contract allows the seller’s agent to call the buyer’s lender? The lender can’t share personal buyer information, but they can confirm that the buyer is working with them and progressing with the necessary paperwork, which is a positive sign.

30-45 Days

A financing offer typically includes a loan approval deadline within 30 or 45 days from the effective date. This is a period during which sellers can be reassured that the deal will likely be finalized. It might feel like a long wait, but lenders need this time to complete their tasks.

Florida Keys Home Appraisals

Within the 30-45 day timeframe, an appraisal must also take place. The property’s appraisal needs to meet or exceed the agreed-upon price for the bank to lend the money. As a seller, you won’t know the appraised value because it’s something the buyer pays for. If the appraisal falls short, there are options to consider, such as requesting another appraisal or adjusting the price.

Insurances

Buyers needing financing must also secure insurance. Sometimes, insurance costs and mortgage payments can strain the buyer’s budget, potentially causing them to cancel. Usually, the buyer’s agent will explore insurance options during the inspection period.

Financing Contingency

Around half of Florida Keys homes sold involve financing and close without issues. While waiting for approval can be challenging, it’s a crucial part of the process. Your agent will guide you and offer advice throughout, making the journey smoother.

Ready to sell your Florida Keys Home?  Give us a call.

Also check out our Sellers Page for more important information on selecting a Marathon, Florida Realtor

Amy Prumo

Amy’s success as a Florida Keys Elite Agent and Diamond Award Winner is truly awe-inspiring. With over 13 years of experience in the real estate industry, she has cemented her position as a trailblazer and pioneer. Her unwavering commitment to excellence is reflected in her impressive academic credentials, which include a Master’s Degree in Marketing and Management. Amy’s marketing programs are simply unmatched, ensuring that your property is showcased to the widest audience of potential buyers, thus guaranteeing maximum exposure.

Secure Showings: Protecting Your Florida Keys Home While Selling

You have just listed your home for sale with an experience local real estate agent in the Florida Keys. But now you are wondering what is the process for showing your home?

No Lockboxes

In the Florida Keys, real estate agents rarely use lockboxes. It might seem odd to some, but when showing a home in the Florida Keys, both the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent are present. So, you never have to worry about having strangers in your home. Your agent will be there to protect and serve your best interests.

Showings

All showings are by appointment only, and buyers are pre-screened by their agent or the selling agent beforehand. As the seller’s agent, our role is to assist the buyer’s agent and their clients, helping with any questions they may have about the home. It’s a team effort that ensures a smooth process.

Full-Time Residence Florida Keys Home

We understand that living in your home while it’s on the market can be a bit challenging. Constantly keeping it clean and having people coming through can be a hassle. That’s why we strive to provide our full-time owners with at least 24 hours’ notice before showings. If we have multiple showings in one day, we try to schedule them back-to-back. It’s also a good practice for full-time residents to tuck away personal items, although we’ve never had any issues with buyers.

Vacation Rentals Florida Keys Homes

The Florida Keys boast numerous vacation rentals, and selling a property that’s also being rented can pose some challenges. In most cases, we schedule showings on Saturdays between check-ins, which can extend the time it takes to sell these types of homes.

Vacant Florida Keys Homes

If your home is vacant, rest assured that both agents will still be present during the showing, maintaining a secure process. You have no need to worry.

Open Houses

During an open house, you don’t need to fret either. Your agent will be there, walking prospective buyers through your home, explaining its features, and attending to any guests that arrive. But, as mentioned earlier, it’s still a good idea to put away any personal items.

Feedback

After the showings, your agent will provide you with valuable feedback on what potential buyers thought of your home.

Selling your Florida Keys home is made simple with your experienced agent by your side!

Ready to sell your Florida Keys Home?  Give us a call.

Also check out our Sellers Page for more important information on selecting a Marathon, Florida Realtor

Selling Your Home in the Florida Keys?

Selling your home in the Florida Keys can be an exciting journey. But one question that often comes to mind is, “How long will it take to sell my house in the Florida Keys?”

Well, here’s the lowdown on what you can expect:

1. Location Matters when selling your home in the Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys are a chain of islands, and each one has its own unique charm. Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Key Colony Beach, Big Pine Key, and Key West, to name a few, offer different experiences. The time it takes to sell your house can depend on your specific location. Properties in more popular and accessible areas tend to sell faster. Visit our market page for area-specific days on market data.

2. House Condition

The condition of your house is a crucial factor. A well-maintained, move-in-ready property will likely attract buyers faster than a fixer-upper. Consider investing in necessary repairs to make your house more appealing to potential buyers.

3. Market Trends

The real estate market is ever-changing. Factors such as interest rates, buyer demand, timing and economic conditions can influence how quickly your house sells. It’s essential to stay informed about the current market trends in the Florida Keys.

4. Pricing Strategy

Pricing your house right is key. A competitive listing price can generate more interest and lead to a quicker sale.  if you want to try the Method of Listing high and coming down later time on the market will most likely increase.

5. Patience Is a Virtue When it Comes to Selling Your Home in the Florida Keys

In the end, it’s important to remember that selling your house is a process. While some houses may sell within a few weeks, others may take several months. Patience and trust in the process are essential.

In a nutshell, the time it takes to sell your house in the Florida Keys. So, embrace the island lifestyle, stay patient, and trust that the perfect buyer will come along.

Ready to sell your Florida Keys Home?  Give us a call.

Also check out our Sellers Page for more important information on selecting a Marathon, Florida Realtor

How to Choose Your Ideal Florida Keys Real Estate Agent

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Florida Keys real estate agent? Here’s a quick guide to make the process a breeze.

Experience: Selling your home is one of the biggest financial decisions most individuals make. You will want someone with experience to handle the sale for you. There is a lot to know about Florida Keys Real Estate, and it takes time and experience to truly understand the market here.

If you do want to give a new agent a try, we suggest asking them to co-list with a more seasoned agent. Everyone has to start somewhere. Additionally, on a positive note, newer agents definitely bring more enthusiasm as they are excited to get started in the business

Local Expertise: Look for an agent who knows the Florida Keys like the back of their hand. If something comes up during the inspection period, and you end up needing a plumber or an electrician, you’re going to want an agent who has connections. It’s in these moments that you’ll be under time restrictions, and finding a reliable person by yourself at the last minute is not what you want to do.

Stellar Communication: A great agent is an excellent communicator. A top real estate agent will provide you with updates at least once a week on your property. Additionally, they should gather showing feedback from the buyer’s agent after every showing and promptly report it to you. You should never feel left in the dark. Once the property goes under contract, your agent should provide you with a timeline of the important dates in the contract. You should always be well-informed.

Proven Track Record: Happy clients and successful deals are strong indicators of a good agent. Look for online testimonials. Additionally, your agent should provide you with a list of references you can call to inquire about their performance.

Personality Match: Choose a Florida Keys Real Estate agent you click with. Real estate is personal, so a good connection matters.

Transparency: An honest agent is a must. No hidden surprises, just straightforward dealings.

Tech-Savvy: Your agent should harness technology for your benefit. Inquire about the types of marketing they employ. If they’re solely relying on professional photos without videos, walk-throughs, 3D tours, or social media, they may be doing the bare minimum.

Pricing Expertise: Your agent should excel in pricing. Every real estate agent should provide you with a comprehensive comparative market analysis. It should compare the features and benefits of different homes on the market with your home. The pricing should make sense to you, and you should feel confident in it before moving forward.

Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your gut. Your real estate agent should make you feel confident and comfortable.

Choosing a Florida Keys Real Estate agent is a significant decision, but with the right steps, you’ll find the perfect match to help you navigate this paradise. Happy house hunting!

Looking for a Florida Keys Real Estate Agent to help with your sale give us a call.

Also check out our Sellers Page for more important information on selecting a Marathon, Florida Realtor