Amber D'Andrea, Realtor-Buckner Homes Realty, Inc

08/30/2024

🌟 Attention future sellers! When weighing offers for your home, the highest bid isn't always the best choice. A lucrative offer might be tempting, but it's essential to consider all aspects of the deal. Ask yourself these crucial questions:

- Is the buyer asking you to cover closing costs or offer seller credits?
- Are there any contingencies, like the buyer needing to sell their current home first?
- Is there an offer that’s lower but in cash, skipping the loan process?
- Does the offer come with a lengthy closing timeline?
- Is a pre-approval letter attached, showing the buyer's serious intent?

These elements affect how smoothly and quickly you can close your sale. The ideal offer isn't just about price; it's about finding the right balance that meets your needs. If you’re planning to sell this year, keep this checklist handy. Your future self will thank you!

08/28/2024

Ever wondered what determines your home's value? Here's the breakdown:

Comparable Sales: Also known as "comps" in your area directly influence your home's value by establishing a market-driven benchmark for what buyers are willing to pay for similar properties.

Location: Factors like proximity to amenities, schools, and neighborhood safety play a significant role.

Size & Layout: The square footage and layout of your home affect its value. Larger homes and practical layouts often command higher prices.

Condition & Age: Well-maintained homes and newer constructions generally hold higher value.

Market Conditions: The current real estate market greatly influences your home's value. Supply and demand, interest rates, and economic factors all come into play.

Amenities & Features: Special features like upgraded kitchens, luxury amenities, and energy-efficient systems can boost your home's value.

Understanding these factors can help you gauge your home's worth accurately.

08/26/2024

An espresso maker, touch screen fridge that orders for you, or an oversized couch the whole family can fit on?

Let us know the one household item you splurged on!

08/23/2024

Halfway through summer already, can you believe it? 🌞

Our mid-summer to-do list is here to help you make the most of the remaining sunny days! Whether you're attending an outdoor concert, spending a day at the beach, or hosting a game night, these activities are perfect for creating unforgettable summer memories.

Take a road trip to explore new places, go camping to reconnect with nature, and cherish these special moments with your loved ones. Summer is all about slowing down, enjoying the moments, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Don't forget to snap photos so you can relive your radiant summer during the colder months.

Bonus tip: Save this post and share it with your crew, so you can tick off the summer to-do list together!

08/21/2024

Scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram for home inspo can be a delightful escape. 🏠✨

But imagine the joy of crafting a space truly your own! Feeling inspired to make that leap from dreamer to homeowner?

Let's chat about finding your perfect place.

08/19/2024

Pop quiz! What do you think the answer is?

If you guessed “all of the above,” you’re correct!

One of the best parts of working with a real estate agent as a buyer is having an expert’s eyes on any potential home.

A good agent will instantly identify things that could use updating, potential issues, and the best parts of the home, in addition to knowing whether or not this is the home on which you should make an offer.

For many buyers, this kind of professional experience and knowledge is invaluable and can steer them away from homes that might not be a good fit.

Reach out if you want expert guidance when looking for your next home!

08/16/2024

If you could only do one chore for the rest of your life, which one would it be? Vacuuming, folding laundry, or something else? Share your favorite chore in the comments!

08/14/2024

🏠💬 Let's dive into the top questions sellers frequently ask, and gain expert insights to navigate the process smoothly.

Whether you've sold a home before, or you're selling for the first time, knowing the process and having the right agent is crucial!

Let's address your FAQs and maximize your selling potential. Reach out today for expert guidance!

08/12/2024

Get the most out of your home sale with these intentional listing tips:
✨ Start by decluttering and deep cleaning your home to make it look its best for potential buyers.

✨ Hire a real estate professional and a photographer to take high-quality photos / videos of your home.

✨ Work with the real estate agent to create a detailed and accurate listing that highlights your home’s key features and amenities.

By following these tips, you can set yourself up for a successful home sale and get the most out of your property!

Reach out today if you are ready to list your home with intention!

08/09/2024

Recently moved or on the hunt for a trusted moving company? Let's create a community resource right here! Share your go-to movers and what made your experience with them stand out. Your insights could pave the way for a smoother move for someone else in our community. Together, we can make relocating a breeze!

08/08/2024

IMPORTANT INFORMATION! Please read!

I just wanted to try to explain and give clear information on how the recent NAR settlement will effect real estate transactions. Before, a buyer could call me, ask questions, request some tours, etc. with no real strings attached. Unfortunately, that is all coming to an end, effective August 17. There will be a "new" commitment between buyers and agents. One that binds us together legally. Let me explain.

1. Before I can show you any property, land, homes, or otherwise; we will need to enter into a Buyer Brokers Agreement. This form is required by the National Association of Realtors. This is a legally binding contract that ties you to the agent you sign with. BE CAREFUL before signing. Make sure you are signing with an agent that can help you, should you decide to look further out than your original target search area. If you call me for help, and you've already signed with an agent in the next county, I cannot help you. Or, be very broad in the locations on the contract before signing. This form HAS to be signed before I can unlock a door for you. Do I like it? No. But it is what it is.

2. This new form requires you, the buyer, to pay your buyers agent compensation, should the seller not want to. Commission splits are NO LONGER allowed in the MLS. What does this mean? Well, it simply means that before we look at or make an offer on a home, I have to call the listing agent to see what the seller is offering in terms of compensation. It's a few extra steps in the process, it's not the end of the world. Most sellers still know and understand the benefit of offering compensation to ensure their home is being marketed and shown properly. We can always negotiate it into your offer. If all else fails, this payment will fall on the buyer.

3. If you are working with a buyers agent, please be respectful of their time and effort. Do not call the listing agent on a home after you've been working with another agent. THIS is actually one great thing about the new agreement. This will no longer will allowed once the agreement has been signed.

If you still have questions about any of this, feel free to ask and I will try to answer to the best of my ability. Please be patient with agents right now as we are all navigating new waters. We are still here to serve you and help you buy the home of your dreams, or sell your current one. Happy house hunting! 352-266-0840

08/07/2024

Ever wondered what happens during a home buyer consultation? Here's what to expect:

We'll meet in a place where you feel comfortable, whether that's at your home or a local coffee shop. We'll go over the entire home buying process, so you understand what to expect with showings, timelines, and the paperwork involved in closing on your next home. This is also the perfect time to discuss your financial situation openly.

During the consultation, we'll also discuss the buyer's agreement, which is now a mandatory part of the process. This ensures that you are fully informed and leave the consultation equipped with all the knowledge and confidence needed to take the next steps. Use this opportunity to ask any questions and address any concerns you might have.

Ready to take the next step? Reach out when you're ready to dive in!

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08/05/2024

📢 Rate Update 8.5.2024! 📉

Exciting news we've all been waiting for: average mortgage rates are dipping! 🏡✨

Reach out to me to learn more about how this could help you:
💸 Lower your payments
💪 Buy with more purchasing power
🔑 Access home equity at a lower cost

Don't miss out on these opportunities! Contact me today! 📞

08/05/2024

Picture this: A young couple, hand in hand, walking through a home, already mentally placing their furniture, deciding on paint colors, their excitement palpable. Now imagine them discovering that the home they've fallen for is just out of reach financially. It's a common story, and it's one I've seen unfold too often.

Here's the inside scoop I share with all first-time buyers: Secure your pre-approval first. It's like having a VIP pass at a concert — doors open for you. Knowing what you can afford transforms you from a hopeful browser to a serious buyer with the power to make a solid offer.

Think of pre-approval as your home-buying compass. It points you to the homes that are in your range, saving you from the heartache of falling for one that isn't. It's your financial mirror reflecting what's possible and what's a stretch.

If you're ready to move from daydreaming to deal-making, let's talk about getting you pre-approved. It's a simple step that can save a world of heartbreak and pave the way to your new home.

08/02/2024

A home warranty can be a financial lifesaver, covering the cost of maintaining your household systems or appliances.

But before you sign on the dotted line, make sure to ask:
1️⃣ What's covered?
2️⃣ What's the deductible?
3️⃣ When does coverage begin and end?
4️⃣ What's hidden in the fine print?

Don't hesitate to question anything that's unclear. Protect your home and wallet with confidence!

07/31/2024

Yesterday was closing day in Sanford, for my buyer, Amanda! This closing was one where if anything could go wrong, it did! 🤪 It was a long and stressful day, but thanks to an incredible title company, who worked until 11:00 p.m. last night to get it done, Amanda got her keys. Home buying isn’t always fun, but it’s worth it! 🎉 🏠 Congratulations!

07/27/2024

FOR SALE! 3/4 acre lot, conveniently located between Ocala & Dunnellon, right off Hwy 40. 352-266-0840

MLS # OM682841 – Build your new home on this 3/4 acre lot, conveniently located with access to Ocala and Dunnellon. Rainbow Springs and Crystal River is just a short drive away. R4 zoning.

07/01/2024

Hometown Heroes is now open! Call me for more information! 352-266-0840

Today, the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program re-opens for a new funding cycle! This popular, down payment and closing cost assistance gets reserved quickly! Get connected with a local loan officer to determine your eligibility here: https://ow.ly/7iEH50Ss6Ts.

Housing

06/29/2024

Do you love Home Depot??🏡 Guild’s 3-2-1 Home Plus program helps first-time homebuyers get closer to their dream home! With as little as 3% down, you’ll receive a $2,000 eGift card to The Home Depot®️ and $1,000 to $2,500 towards closing costs. Contact me today to find out more! 🌟

06/28/2024

Embrace the summer vibes!

Transform your outdoor oasis into the ultimate haven for warm-weather festivities.

Here's your go-to checklist for creating the perfect backyard retreat:

🌿 Tame your lawn for a lush, inviting look
🔥 Prep your grill for sizzling BBQ feasts
💡 Illuminate your space with cozy outdoor lighting
🌳 Enhance privacy with stylish fencing

Start now and make this summer one to remember!

06/28/2024

06/26/2024

🏠☀️ Thinking about buying a house this summer? Consider these key points:

- Market Trends: Now’s a good time to observe your local real estate market. Reach out to hear about the current trends.
- Financial Health: Make sure your finances are in shape, especially your savings for a down payment.
- Future Plans: Reflect on your long-term goals. Is this the right community for you to settle down in?

Ready to take the next step? Reach out today, and let’s find your new home this summer! 🌟

06/24/2024

Decorating your home for the summer 🌿 ☀️

➡️ Incorporate some yellow into your home for a subtle mood boost. This cheerful color can brighten your day regardless of the weather.
➡️ Bring the outdoors in. Add flowers and/or indoor plants to refresh your space for summer.
➡️ Add soft textures like woven baskets and wood tones to brighten up your space.

Are you going to follow these summer home decor tips?

06/19/2024

If you’re jumping into the summer real estate market, you need to use these tips!

The competition is hot right now, which means that you need to use the right strategies to make a successful offer.

First and foremost, you need a trusted agent on your side to help you craft attractive offers and make the best deal possible on your new home.

On top of that, your finances need to be in good shape and you need a pre-approval to show it. Sellers will be looking for offers with secure financing–this is where your pre-approval comes in!

You’ll also want to do your homework and understand your negotiating power for each home that you want to make an offer on. Your agent will help you with this so you’re prepared to make a great offer.

By following these tips, you’ll put together a successful offer and get the home of your dreams this summer!

Want more buyer tips and tricks? Send a DM and let's chat!

06/17/2024

Boost your home's appeal on the market! 🏡 Here's how:
✅ Partner with a seasoned real estate agent.
✅ Give your home a thorough cleaning.
✅ Depersonalize to allow buyers to envision their life in the space.
✅ Declutter and minimize furniture for a spacious feel.
✅ Hire a professional photographer for eye-catching images.
✅ Create a 3D tour for an immersive viewing experience.

These steps can significantly increase your home's attractiveness to potential buyers. Reach out today for more tips!

06/14/2024

Spring into action and boost your home’s value with these five smart, cost-effective updates! 🏡

1. Tackle deferred maintenance—fix those broken windows and freshen up with new paint.
2. Reclaim your spaces—convert that makeshift playroom into its original elegant dining room.
3. Upgrade to modern appliances and install LED lighting for a contemporary feel.
4. Declutter for an instant, cost-free refresh.
5. Consider minor DIY projects that add significant value without needing a pro.

A little effort can go a long way in enhancing your home’s appeal!

06/13/2024

🏠🔍 Thinking about buying a home? 🤔 The pre-qualification calculator is your first step! It helps you understand your budget and loan options. Check it out now: https://www.guildmortgage.com/mortgage-calculators/pre-qualification-calculator/

Then call me with any mortgage questions that you might have. I'm always here to help!

06/12/2024

Want to keep your home chill this summer and save some dough on bills? Here's how:

1. Keep those curtains closed when you're out - think of them as your heat shields.
2. When it cools off in the evening, crack open those windows and let the breeze in.
3. Double-check your ceiling fans - they should be spinning counterclockwise to push cool air down.
4. Switch your cozy comforters for airy cotton duvets - they breathe better.

Try these out and enjoy a cooler, budget-friendly summer!

06/11/2024

Meeting with new buyers!

06/11/2024

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of sitting at the closing table with Jennifer and Nicholas, who just purchased a home in Melrose. They are relocating from Illinois. When we first spoke on the phone, Jennifer asked where I was from! She picked up on the midwest accent that I evidently still carry. 🤣 We bonded immediately. Welcome to the Sunshine State, Jen & Nick. ❤️ ☀️ 🐊