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Buying a home is just the beginning of homeownership and it’s important to have good resources for all the different things that it involves. That is why you’re going to want to keep the communication channels open between you and your agent.

Follow your real estate professional on social media.

Give your agent a review on Google or Facebook to share the great service you received.

Mark email on your "safe sender’s list" so you won’t miss newsletters, market stats, and other important information about maintaining a home and general market conditions.

When you need an answer about anything having to do with real estate or homeownership, who do you call? Consider your agent your Real Estate Directory Assistance Service. If your agent doesn’t have the answer, they can point you in the right direction.

Feel confident to recommend your friends and relatives to your agent. They’ll appreciate working with a professional you trust, and your agent will be grateful for the referral.

Close to nine out of ten buyers and sellers are satisfied with the service from their agent and say they’ll use them again and refer people to them. When the time comes to move again, make the first call to your trusted agent.

Helping homeowners when they buy, sell, and all the years in between.

Just a few of the things your agent can do for you when you’re not buying or selling a home are:

• Area sales activity on current homes for sale and sold homes
• Current market value of real estate you own
• Service Provider Recommendations
• Help in challenging tax assessment
• Advice on home improvements
• Conversations you should have with your insurance agent
• Refinance Analysis … Does it make sense to refinance?
• Assistance in evaluating a home warranty
• Information on investing in rental properties
• Improvement registers to keep tract of capital improvements

Want help being a better homeowner? Follow us on your favorite social media platform. We’re committed to sharing great homeowner information on a consistent basis.

Many homeowners believe starting with a higher asking price won’t hurt—after all, someone might pay it, right? Unfortunately, overpricing your home often leads to delays, financial setbacks, and missed opportunities.

Take the experience of one seller who listed their home for $129,000 but later had to adjust to market realities and drop the price by $4,000. Challenges like location and buyer affordability turned away potential buyers.

As Charles Stallions, CBR, CRS, CSP, your trusted real estate broker, emphasizes: “Understanding your market and who your likely buyers are is critical to pricing your home accurately.”

The risks of overpricing go beyond just a delayed sale. A home on the market can hold you back from moving into your dream home for too long. If you’ve already purchased another property, you might juggle two mortgages—an expensive and stressful situation.

“You waste valuable time and money by not pricing it right from the start,” says Charles Stallions, a seasoned expert in helping homeowners navigate the real estate market in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida.

Repeated price drops can also send the wrong signal to potential buyers, making them question what might be wrong with your home.

“Today’s buyers are smart, well-researched, and cautious,” says Charles. “It’s important to start with a realistic, data-driven price to attract serious offers.”

Pricing a home is a science, not an emotional decision. Charles Stallions leverages market data, years of expertise, and a deep understanding of local trends to help you price your home competitively and strategically.

If you’re ready to sell your home, you need a marketing expert. Charles Stallions will advise and guide you through approximately 206 potential challenges that can arise during and after your home sale, ensuring a smooth closing. Call Charles NOW at 850-476-4494 for a free 7-minute phone analysis of your home’s value.

At Charles Stallions Real Estate Services, we utilize our TRI-merge System, known for its impeccable accuracy. We integrate data from the MLS, Zillow, Tax Rolls, and an appraisal evaluation system, along with one other secret ingredient, to determine the TRUE VALUE of your home.

The result? A quicker sale, less stress, and a seamless transition to your next chapter. Trust Charles Stallions to guide you every step of the way for a successful home-selling experience.

The C-Note is a short version of the monthly newsletter where we talk about all things real estate: investing, buying, selling, landlord, and tenant. We are Ambassadors for Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a frequent visitor, do as the locals do when you need to know something — whether about an excellent place to eat, job opportunities, or a real estate question. Call or text Charles Stallions at 850-476-4494 or email [email protected]. It’s Who We “R.”

 

Mortgage 101: Are you thinking of financing, refinancing, or just needing to understand how the process works? We squash the mortgage myths, and it all starts here. We research whether you need a VA, FHA, conventional, or non-traditional owner-financing loan. We can help simplify the process and remove the mortgage myths.

How to Get Mortgage Info and a FREE Credit Report

Reverse Mortgage: Is It Right For You

“Explore our latest inventory of homes or conduct your search at your convenience.

Check out the latest Guide to Buying a Home.

Check out the latest Guide to Selling Your Home.

In today’s challenging real estate market, obtaining mortgage pre-approval is a fundamental step for homebuyers, offering a clear picture of their purchasing power. By first choosing a knowledgeable agent to work with, buyers can benefit from expert guidance in selecting the right lender and mortgage officer, ensuring they secure the best mortgage for their unique situation.

Pre-approval involves a lender conducting a thorough review and verification of a buyer’s financial situation, including credit history, income, assets, and debts. Upon completion, the lender issues a written commitment stating the maximum loan amount they’re willing to offer, subject to certain conditions.

It is our policy to work with your lender to get a property specific pre-approval letter without a maximum loan amount but only stating that you are approved for an amount sufficient for you to purchase this home according to the terms of the offer. This letter will accompany the offer to purchase with the lender’s phone number in case the listing agent has any questions.

This pre-approval letter gives buyers a significant advantage in the home-buying process, as it demonstrates to sellers that they are serious and financially capable of following through with a purchase. Pre-approval typically remains valid for 60 to 90 days and helps buyers shop within their budget, streamline negotiations, and potentially close on a home more quickly.

It’s important to note that while pre-approval is a strong indicator of loan eligibility, it’s not a guarantee of final loan approval, which will still require additional steps such as a home appraisal and final verification of the buyer’s financial information.

Budget Clarity: Pre-approval provides buyers with a clear understanding of their budget, helping them focus their search on homes within their price range and avoid wasting time on properties they cannot afford.

Faster Closing Process: Pre-approved buyers can expedite the closing process since much of the financing groundwork has already been completed, potentially giving them an advantage over other buyers in multiple-offer situations.

Negotiating Power: Sellers are more likely to negotiate and accept offers from pre-approved buyers, knowing that they have already secured financing and are less likely to encounter funding issues during the transaction.

Increased Confidence: Pre-approval gives buyers confidence in their purchasing power, allowing them to make strong and competitive offers with certainty.

Strategic Planning: With pre-approval, buyers can strategically plan their home search and make informed decisions about property selection, offers, and negotiations.

Avoidance of Disappointment: Pre-approval helps buyers avoid disappointment by preventing them from falling in love with homes they cannot afford or losing out on a dream property due to delays in securing financing.

Streamlined Process: Pre-approval streamlines the homebuying process by identifying any potential financing obstacles upfront, allowing buyers to address them proactively and navigate the transaction more smoothly.

Second Opinion: Given the numerous variables involved beyond just interest rates, points, and fees, we recommend seeking a second opinion from another trusted, experienced local lender. This allows you to compare terms and could potentially offer you more favorable conditions.

As you embark on your home buying journey, remember that the path to successful homeownership begins with choosing the right team. An experienced, trusted real estate agent can be your greatest asset, not only in finding your dream home but also in navigating the complex world of mortgage financing.

They can guide you to reputable lenders who will work diligently to secure the best mortgage terms for your unique situation. Don’t underestimate the power of this professional partnership in today’s competitive market.

Take the first step towards your new home with confidence … reach out to a seasoned real estate agent today and set the foundation for a smooth, informed home buying experience. Your future self will thank you for making this wise decision at the very start of your journey.

Single-family rentals (SFRs) are established as a compelling investment opportunity in the real estate market, offering a unique blend of stability and growth potential. These standalone residential properties, rented out to tenants, provide investors with a tangible asset that generates steady income while potentially appreciating in value over time.

As the demand for single-family homes continues to rise among renters seeking more space and privacy, SFRs have become an increasingly attractive option for both individual and institutional investors looking to diversify their portfolios.

The acronym IDEAL encapsulates the primary benefits that make SFRs an attractive investment vehicle:

Income – SFRs provide a steady stream of rental income, offering investors a reliable cash flow. Unlike some other real estate investments, single-family homes tend to attract long-term tenants, resulting in more stable and consistent rental income. This regular cash flow can help offset mortgage payments, property taxes, and maintenance costs while potentially providing additional profit.

Depreciation – One of the significant tax advantages of investing in SFRs is depreciation. The IRS allows property owners to deduct the cost of the building over its useful life, typically 27.5 years for residential properties. This non-cash expense can significantly reduce an investor’s taxable income, potentially leading to substantial tax savings.

Equity – As tenants pay rent, a portion of that money goes towards paying down the mortgage principal, building equity in the property. Over time, this equity accumulation can represent a significant portion of the investment’s return. Additionally, as property values appreciate, the equity in the home increases, further enhancing the investor’s wealth.

Appreciation – Real estate, including single-family homes, has historically appreciated in value over the long term. This appreciation can lead to substantial gains when the property is eventually sold. SFRs in desirable neighborhoods or growing markets may experience even higher rates of appreciation, potentially outperforming other types of real estate investments.

Homes in the United States have appreciated an average of 5.56% per year for the past 60 years.

Leverage – Investors can use leverage to purchase SFRs with a relatively small down payment, typically 20-25% of the property’s value. This allows investors to control a valuable asset with a fraction of its total cost, amplifying potential returns. As the property appreciates and the mortgage is paid down, the investor’s return on investment can be significantly higher than the initial cash invested.

Single-family rentals offer a unique combination of these IDEAL factors, making them a superior investment alternative for many reasons, especially for individuals.

• Lower barrier to entry compared to multi-family or commercial properties
• Easier management and maintenance than larger rental complexes
• Appeal to a wide range of tenants, from young families to retirees
• Potential for higher appreciation rates in desirable neighborhoods
• Flexibility to sell to either investors or owner-occupants when exiting the investment

By leveraging the IDEAL elements of income, depreciation, equity, appreciation, and leverage, investors in single-family rentals can build long-term wealth while enjoying the benefits of passive income and tax advantages. As with any investment, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and due diligence before committing to a property, considering factors such as location, market trends, and potential rental income.

For more information on Single-family rentals, download our Rental Income Properties guide. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you and explain more about the opportunities that make SFRs such an attractive investment.

The real estate landscape is shifting, with new practices like mandatory buyer’s agreements becoming the norm. While these agreements aim to provide clarity and protection, they can also create unexpected complications.

Imagine signing a buyer’s agreement with an agent, then stumbling upon your dream home during a casual open house visit. This seemingly innocent scenario could lead to a costly mistake, potentially leaving you on the hook for thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket fees.

As the industry evolves, it’s crucial for homebuyers to understand the implications of these agreements and the potential pitfalls of going solo after signing one.

Contacting Listing Agents Directly

Visiting open houses on your own or calling the listing agent is a quick way to discover information and what you like and dislike. Be sure to register with the host agent and inform them if you are currently working with an agent. Keep your excitement in check, as the host agent represents the seller. It’s best to keep your intentions discreet, as anything you say or do can be used against you in negotiations!

Builder Homes

Creating your dream home is an adventure. Many buyers are surprised to learn that a builder’s role is very similar to that of a traditional home seller. Your buyer’s agent will represent you as a buyer and use their expertise to ensure you have the best possible experience and get the best deal. Many builders budget for a buyer’s agent commission regardless of whether you have one, so take advantage of my experience and understanding by following their policies when visiting developments.

For Sale By Owner

If you find a For Sale by Owner property, let your agent know so they can help you maximize the process. They have the expertise to make contact, negotiate, and ensure the entire transaction goes smoothly. Your agent can help you save money in the transaction and, more importantly, save you the headaches of managing the purchase on your own.

Example

When a buyer who has signed a written buyer’s agent agreement contacts another agent, it can lead to a complex situation regarding procuring cause and commission payments. Here’s how it might unfold:

The buyer signs an exclusive buyer’s agent agreement with Agent A, establishing a legal relationship and potentially agreeing to pay a fee for their services.

The buyer then contacts Agent B, perhaps at an open house or through another listing, without informing them about the existing agreement with Agent A. Agent B shows the buyer a property, and the buyer decides to purchase it through Agent B.

A dispute may arise between Agent A and Agent B over who is the procuring cause of the sale. This dispute would typically be resolved through arbitration by the local real estate board.

If Agent B is determined to be the procuring cause (for example, if they showed the property and facilitated the sale), they may be entitled to the selling portion of the commission from the transaction.

However, the buyer may still be liable to pay Agent A’s fee separately, as per their written agreement. This is because the buyer’s agent agreement is a contract between the buyer and Agent A, independent of the outcome of the procuring cause dispute.

In this scenario, the buyer might end up effectively paying two fees: one indirectly through the sale (which goes to Agent B as the procuring cause) and one directly to Agent A as per their agreement.

This situation underscores the importance of clear communication between buyers and agents, and the need for buyers to understand their obligations under a buyer’s agent agreement. It also highlights why agents should always ask potential clients if they’re already working with another agent to avoid such complications.

For more information, download our Buyer’s Agent Guide. You should be comfortable talking with a real estate professional how this works and your available options.

Recent policy changes made by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) have shifted the dynamics of buyer’s agent compensation, prompting sellers to reconsider their strategies.

Many buyers, especially first-time homebuyers, have limited savings and may struggle to cover additional costs beyond the down payment, closing costs, and other expenses associated with purchasing a home. Mortgage lenders typically do not allow buyers to include agent fees in their loan amount, meaning buyers must pay these fees out-of-pocket, which can be a significant financial burden.

Requiring buyers to cover their agent’s compensation, as opposed to the traditional seller-offered model, exacerbates affordability issues and limits many buyers’ ability to purchase a home. To maximize market appeal and facilitate a quicker sale at full market value, sellers should strongly consider offering buyer’s agent compensation.

1. Increased Buyer Pool: Offering compensation to buyer’s agents can attract more potential buyers. Many buyers rely on agents to navigate the home-buying process, and agents are more likely to show homes where they are compensated, expanding the pool of potential buyers for the seller’s home.
2. Competitive Advantage: In a competitive real estate market, offering buyer’s agent compensation can make a seller’s property stand out compared to similar listings that do not offer such incentives. This could lead to quicker sales and potentially higher offers.
3. Facilitated Negotiations: Providing compensation can simplify negotiations. Without the need for buyers to negotiate agent fees separately, the transaction process becomes more straightforward, reducing potential friction points that could delay or derail a sale.
4. Legal and Compliance Benefits: Buyer agents help ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements during real estate transactions. By compensating buyer agents, sellers can mitigate the risk of non-compliance and potential litigation, which could arise from handling complex paperwork and disclosures on their own.
5. Market Perception: Not offering buyer’s agent compensation might create a perception that the seller is less flexible or cooperative, which could deter potential buyers and their agents. This perception can be particularly detrimental in markets where such compensation is customary.
6. Preservation of Market Norms: While the NAR settlement allows for commission negotiations, many buyers and sellers are accustomed to the traditional model where sellers offer compensation to buyer’s agents. Deviating from this norm might confuse or alienate potential buyers, affecting the property’s marketability.

Sellers who choose to offer buyer’s agent compensation can enhance their property’s appeal and attract a wider range of buyers resulting in obtaining the highest price, in the shortest time, with the fewest problems. In a competitive market, this strategic decision may be crucial for achieving a successful and timely sale.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, known as VA, issued a policy change that now allows payment to buyer brokers on VA loans. They will be subject to certain safeguards, such as the requirement that all buyer-broker fees charged to veterans "must be reasonable and customary within local markets." The circular is effective Aug. 10, 2024, and is valid until rescinded.

The VA also clarified that veterans can still ask sellers to cover these fees which in most cases will be negotiated in the offer to purchase agreement. As the practicality of the settlement of the lawsuit becomes clearer, VA is expected to issue a permanent policy.

This change in policy will protect veterans in situations where there is competition for a particular property and the seller might select another offer because those buyers were paying their own buyer’s agent fee. Prior to this policy change, veterans were not allowed to pay, "under any circumstances, be charged a brokerage fee or commission in connection with the services of such individuals."

Both the National Association of REALTORS� and the Mortgage Bankers Association have been lobbying the VA to address this prohibition and are thankful for addressing the issue to keep veterans who want to use their VA benefits to purchase as home.

VA mortgage loans have many benefits and options to structure a home purchase to fit your individual situation. Your real estate professional can help you find the home that fits your needs with affordable financing.

For more information on changes with buyer’s agents, download Buyers Agent Guide and contact your agent with any questions you may have.

Official Tourism Website of Pensacola, Florida

 

Visit Pensacola

https://www.visitpensacola.com

 

Discover nearly 500 years of history, unique shopping, and luxurious places to stay when you plan a trip to Pensacola, Florida.

The cost of living in Pensacola, Florida, is 11% lower than the state average and 13% lower than the national average. Pensacola, FL, housing is 25% cheaper than the U.S. average, while utilities are about 11% pricier.

Pensacola is a city in the Florida Panhandle in the United States. It is the county seat and only city in Escambia County. It is the principal city of the Pensacola Metropolitan Statistical Area, which had 511,503 residents in 2020.

 

Housing stats 

What Is My Home Value? 

The C-Note is a short version of the monthly newsletter, where we discuss all things real estate: investing, buying, selling, landlord, and tenant.

Charles Stallions, A Real Estate Broker since 1995, Charles holds many certifications, including (CRS) Certified Residential Specialist, (SREE) Senior Real Estate Expert, (CPI) Certified Property Investor, New Home Specialist, and Certified Buyer Expert. Charles believes a well-informed buyer or seller is an educated buyer or seller.

Bottom Line: “We ‘R’ The Realtors For That.” Sign up for our Monthly Real Estate Newsletter

We are Ambassadors for Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a frequent visitor, do as the locals do when you need to know something — whether about an excellent place to eat, job opportunities, or a real estate question. Call or text Charles Stallions at 850-476-4494 or email [email protected]. It’s Who We “R”

More Information for the Military, Including PCS

When a military person receives orders for a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to Pensacola, understanding the local area, housing options, and support resources can make the transition smoother. Charles Stallions A long Time Pensacolian can help you form benefits to housing. Here’s what they should know:

 

1. Housing Options

• On-Base Housing: Pensacola Naval Air Station (NAS) offers on-base housing through the Corry Station housing office, but availability can vary. It’s essential to apply early since wait times depend on the season and housing demand.
• Off-Base Housing: If on-base housing isn’t available or suitable, Pensacola has a range of neighborhoods with military-friendly rental and purchase options. Be sure to budget for utilities and additional costs since these may differ from on-base housing.
• BAH Rates: Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates in Pensacola are specific to rank and dependents. Knowing your BAH rate will help determine whether on-base or off-base living is more cost-effective.

 

2. Schooling Options

• Pensacola offers various public, private, and charter schools. Families with school-age children may want to research school ratings, distance from base, and enrollment requirements.
• School Liaison Officer (SLO): NAS Pensacola provides a SLO to help military families understand local education options and coordinate school transitions.

 

3. Community and Family Resources

• The Fleet and Family Support Centeron NAS Pensacola offers resources, from relocation assistance to counseling and support groups. They provide valuable help with integration into the local community.
• Childcare: On-base childcare options exist, but early application is recommended due to potential waitlists. Off-base childcare centers are available in Pensacola, though costs and availability vary.

 

4. Local Area and Lifestyle

• Pensacola is known for its beaches, outdoor activities, and historical sites. The military community is well-integrated, offering opportunities to socialize with both military and civilian residents.
• The area has a variety of recreational activities, and the base itself offers amenities like gyms, pools, and recreational facilities, which can enhance quality of life during your time stationed there.

 

Understanding these aspects can ease the PCS transition and help a military family feel at home more quickly in Pensacola.

The C-Note is a short version of the monthly newsletter where we talk about all things

real estate: investing, buying, selling, landlord, and tenant.

Charles Stallions, A Real Estate Broker since 1995, Charles holds many certifications, including (CRS) Certified Residential Specialist, (SREE) Senior Real Estate Expert, (CPI) Certified Property Investor, New Home Specialist, and Certified Buyer Expert. Charles believes a well-informed buyer or seller is an educated buyer or seller.

Bottom Line: “We ‘R’ The Realtors For That.” Sign up for our Monthly Real Estate Newsletter

We are Ambassadors for Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a frequent visitor, do as the locals do when you need to know something — whether about an excellent place to eat, job opportunities, or a real estate question. Call or text Charles Stallions at 850-476-4494 or email [email protected]. It’s Who We “R.”

Authored by Charles Stallions, CRS, GRI, CBR, a leading real estate broker in the Florida Panhandle who has helped thousands of families move since 1995.