Protecting Your Investment: Home Warranties

Travis Talley | February 10, 2025

Why Home Warranties Are Worth It: Protecting Your Investment

               Owning a home comes with responsibilities, and ensuring its appliances and systems stay in top condition is crucial. Why home warranties are worth it becomes clear when unexpected repairs arise, often carrying hefty costs. A home warranty offers peace of mind by covering essential components like HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical work, and major appliances—saving homeowners from sudden financial strain.

What Does a Home Warranty Cover?

A home warranty is different from homeowners insurance. While insurance covers damages from natural disasters, theft, or fire, a home warranty protects against normal wear and tear of major household systems and appliances. Coverage typically includes:

  • Heating & Cooling Systems – HVAC, furnaces, and ductwork
  • Plumbing & Electrical – Interior plumbing, water heaters, wiring
  • Kitchen & Laundry Appliances – Refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, and dryers
  • Other Essential Components – Garage door openers, ceiling fans, and more

The Benefits of a Home Warranty

  1. Financial Protection – Repairs and replacements can cost thousands. A home warranty helps minimize these unexpected expenses.
  2. Convenience – Instead of searching for reliable contractors, home warranty providers handle the repair process for you.
  3. Added Value for Sellers & Buyers – A home warranty can make a home more attractive to buyers and provide confidence to new homeowners.
  4. Peace of Mind – Knowing your home’s major systems are covered allows you to focus on enjoying your home rather than worrying about repairs.

Choosing the Right Home Warranty

Not all home warranties are the same. Consider:

  • Coverage Options – Make sure the plan includes the appliances and systems you rely on most.
  • Service Fees & Exclusions – Understand the costs associated with service visits and any coverage limitations.
  • Provider Reputation – Read reviews and compare plans from reputable providers to ensure quality service.


Investing in a home warranty is a proactive step to protect your home and budget. Whether you’re a new homeowner or have lived in your home for years, the right home warranty plan can make a significant difference when faced with unexpected repairs.

FAQ Section

1. Is a home warranty the same as homeowners insurance?
No. Homeowners insurance covers damages from disasters or theft, while a home warranty covers repairs due to normal wear and tear of appliances and systems.

2. Do home warranties cover pre-existing issues?
Most home warranties do not cover pre-existing conditions, so it’s best to get one before problems arise.

3. How much does a home warranty cost?
The cost varies by provider and coverage, typically ranging from $300 to $600 per year, with additional service fees per repair.

4. Are home warranties worth it for new homes?
New homes often come with builder warranties, but a home warranty can offer extended coverage once those expire.

5. Can I choose my own repair contractor with a home warranty?
Most warranty providers have their own network of contractors, but some allow you to choose your own with prior approval.

Luxury Condo in Navarre Beach with Gulf View

Unit 1201 Caribbean Report Condo

A luxurious Condo with Gulf Views

Welcome to Navarre Beach, Florida, where the white sands and crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico meet the vibrant culture of the Emerald Coast. If you are looking for a luxurious Florida condo that offers stunning Gulf views and is fully furnished, then look no further than this beautiful property in Caribbean Resort.

Gulf Views from your balcony

Imagine waking up every morning to the sound of the waves and a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico. This property offers just that with its spacious balcony that overlooks the Gulf, making it the perfect spot to start your day or unwind after a long day of exploring Navarre Beach.

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luxury living at its finest

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Kitchen

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relax in style

This three-bedroom, three-bathroom Mediterranean-style condo features high ceilings, custom cabinetry, porcelain tile, and quartz countertops that give the condo a luxurious feel. The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, a built-in microwave, disposal, and pantry, making it perfect for cooking meals for family and friends.

The bedrooms are spacious and feature a walk-in closet, perfect for storing all your beachwear. The bathrooms feature a double vanity, luxury shower, and beautiful tilework. The unit also includes all drapes, cable, and high-speed internet availability.

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Your Amenities

The Caribbean Resort offers numerous amenities that will make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Lounge by the pool or relax in one of the hot tubs, and take in the beautiful surroundings.

The resort is located just steps away from the Navarre Beach Pier, where you can enjoy fishing, beach volleyball, and live music. The Santa Rosa Sound, a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, is also close by.

Convenient Location

Located on Gulf Blvd in Navarre, this condo is centrally located to all the attractions the Emerald Coast has to offer. Spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, visit the Gulf Breeze Zoo, or take a trip to the Pensacola Naval Air Station Museum. Navarre Beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, and there are plenty of activities for kids and adults alike.

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Home Buying FAQs

Answering Your Questions

To answer your questions, the Florida Coast is the 1,350-mile-long coastline that borders the state of Florida on the east, south, and west. Navarre Beach is located on the Emerald Coast in the northwestern part of Florida, in between Pensacola and Destin.

And yes, there are beach rentals available all around Navarre. For this For Sale luxurious Caribbean Resort condo, contact Sam at (850) 361-2464 to schedule a showing or to ask any questions you may have. Send offers to Travis Talley travistalley@kwluxuryhomes.com.

Don't miss out!

This stunning Florida condo in Caribbean Resort is the perfect place to enjoy all the beauty and excitement that Navarre Beach has to offer. Fully furnished and with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, you won't want to miss out on this opportunity.

© 2023 All Rights Reserved.

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Moving to Pensacola? Get Prepared with Our Top 10 Tips

by Travis Talley

Moving-to-Pensacola-Get-prepared-with-our-top-10-tips

             Are you considering a move to the Gulf Coast in Pensacola, Florida?

             Congratulations, you’re in for a treat!

             The Gulf Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly communities. But before you pack your bags, there are some important things to consider to ensure a smooth transition. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 things you need to know before making the move, including the cost of living, job market, schools, neighborhoods, and more. Plus, we’ll provide helpful tips for hurricane preparedness and community involvement, so you can hit the ground running and start enjoying all that the Gulf Coast has to offer. So, whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or just a change of scenery, read on to discover everything you need to know about moving to the Gulf Coast in Pensacola, Florida!

1. Cost of Living

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             If you’re looking to save money, Pensacola is an excellent option as its cost of living is lower than the national average. Housing options in Pensacola are diverse, ranging from rental apartments to homes for purchase at varying prices. However, when planning your move, it’s essential to factor in expenses like property taxes, utilities, and transportation. Despite these costs, Pensacola offers several ways to save money, such as discount grocery stores and free recreational activities. By being mindful of your expenses, you can enjoy all that Pensacola has to offer without overspending.

2. Job Market

             When considering a move to Pensacola, it’s important to understand the local job market. The city offers a range of job opportunities in various industries, including the military, healthcare, technology, and tourism. The military is one of the biggest employers in Pensacola, providing jobs for civilians in healthcare, logistics, and administration. The healthcare industry is also a major employer, with several hospitals and medical centers in the city. Pensacola is also home to several technology companies, offering jobs in software engineering and data analysis. The city’s thriving tourism industry creates jobs in hospitality and tourism-related fields. Researching potential job opportunities and networking with local professionals can increase your chances of finding a fulfilling career in Pensacola.

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3. Schools

             If you’re moving to Pensacola with children or plan to start a family, the quality of schools in the area is likely a top concern. Pensacola offers both public and private school options, as well as higher education opportunities. The Escambia County School District operates 34 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and 8 high schools, as well as specialized programs such as magnet schools and career academies. Pensacola also has several private schools, including Catholic and non-religious schools, with smaller class sizes. The University of West Florida and Pensacola State College provide higher education opportunities. Researching different schools and programs in the area will help you find the best fit for your family’s educational needs.

4. Neighborhoods

             When considering a move to Pensacola, it’s important to research different neighborhoods to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and needs. Popular neighborhoods in Pensacola include Downtown, East Hill, Pensacola Beach, Cordova Park, and Perdido Key. Downtown Pensacola is a lively and walkable urban environment, while the East Hill neighborhood is known for its suburban lifestyle and community events. Pensacola Beach offers a waterfront lifestyle with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. Cordova Park is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, and Perdido Key offers a secluded and tranquil lifestyle. Researching different neighborhoods in Pensacola can help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and needs.

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5. Healthcare

             Access to quality healthcare is crucial when moving to a new area, and Pensacola has a robust healthcare system with several hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers to choose from. The Baptist Health Care system is the largest healthcare provider, while Sacred Heart Health System is another major provider known for its cardiac care and orthopedic services. Pensacola also has community health centers, specialty clinics and centers, and the Andrews Institute for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. Overall, residents can find quality healthcare in Pensacola, whether for routine medical care or specialized treatment.

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6. Transportation

             When moving to Pensacola, it’s essential to consider the transportation options available in the area. Pensacola has several modes of transportation, including cars, public transportation, bicycles, taxis and ride-sharing services, and air travel. The city has a well-developed road network with several major highways, and the Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT) system provides bus services throughout the area. Additionally, Pensacola has a growing network of bike lanes and trails, a bike share program, several taxi companies, and a nearby international airport. Residents can choose the transportation option that best suits their needs, making it easy to get around the city and beyond.

7. Climate

             Pensacola has a humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild and rainy winters. The city is also susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season. The average temperature ranges from 50 degrees Fahrenheit in winter to 90 degrees Fahrenheit in summer, and the humidity can make it feel hotter in summer. It’s essential to be prepared for the climate, stay hydrated in summer and wear warm clothing and rain gear in winter. However, the weather also provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking, and boating, thanks to the abundance of beaches, parks, and outdoor attractions.

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8. Recreation / Beaches

             Pensacola is a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities. The city offers a variety of options for beachgoers, including Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key Beach. Visitors can also explore numerous parks, such as Big Lagoon State Park and Gulf Islands National Seashore, for hiking and biking. The nearby Blackwater River State Forest is an excellent spot for camping and water sports. In addition to outdoor activities, Pensacola boasts several museums, theaters, music venues, and art galleries. With so many options available, Pensacola is the perfect destination for those who love the outdoors and appreciate natural beauty.

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9. Culture

             Pensacola is a city with a rich cultural heritage, featuring a diverse range of museums, theaters, and art galleries. The National Naval Aviation Museum is a popular attraction, showcasing over 150 restored aircraft and providing visitors with an immersive experience of naval aviation history. The Pensacola Museum of Art and the Quayside Gallery offer contemporary and traditional art exhibitions, while the downtown area boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or entertainment, Pensacola has something for everyone.

10. Community Involvement

             Pensacola is a culturally rich city with various museums, theaters, and art galleries. The National Naval Aviation Museum, showcasing restored aircraft and naval aviation history, is a must-visit. The Pensacola Museum of Art and the Quayside Gallery offer diverse art exhibitions. The city’s downtown is known for its lively dining and nightlife scene. Whether you seek history, art, or entertainment, Pensacola has something to offer.

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             Moving to the Gulf Coast in Pensacola, Florida can be a great decision for those seeking a new home with a warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a strong sense of community. As we’ve discussed, there are several important factors to consider when making the move, including the cost of living, job market, schools, neighborhoods, healthcare, transportation, climate, recreational activities, culture, and community involvement.

             By taking these factors into account and doing your research, you can ensure that you find a home in Pensacola that meets your needs and suits your lifestyle. From the historic downtown area to the stunning beaches and natural beauty of the surrounding areas, Pensacola offers a wide variety of options for residents to explore and enjoy.

             Ultimately, the Gulf Coast in Pensacola, Florida is a unique and vibrant region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a young professional looking to build your career, a family seeking a safe and welcoming community, or a retiree in search of relaxation and natural beauty, Pensacola has it all. We hope that this guide has provided you with useful information and insights to help you make the most of your move to this wonderful part of the world.

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New Pensacola Listing | 4530 Bohemia Dr

Beautiful Custom Built Pool Home

This custom built luxury home is conveniently located in Bohemia, an established desirable neighborhood off Scenic Hwy. Driving in, you’ll enjoy the mossy Oak trees, up to the quiet Cul-de-sac. Upon entering, note the grand entryway with regal columns and towering 23 foot ceilings. The gorgeous custom wood flooring flows through the main living area of the home and into the office which has built in bookcases. This home offers great entertaining space with a formal dining room, sitting area and sliding glass doors that offer wonderful views of the pool with fountain.

Ask us for more information on this property or Schedule your tour: TheTalleyGroupGulfCoast@gmail.com

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Pensacola Beach Waterfront Listing | 333 Panferio Dr

Come for the views…stay for the features!

Situated on the Santa Rosa Sound with 105 feet of water frontage, this Mediterranean Estate was built to stand the test of time. With concrete pilings that go 38 feet down and ICF construction (Insulated Concrete Form), this fortress was well planned and has so many magnificent features: 

This property’s Income Potential:

Ask us about insurance, seller’s disclosures & Schedule your tour: TheTalleyGroupGulfCoast@gmail.com

 

 

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View Similar Properties

This stunning 10th-floor, east-end corner unit at Caribbean Resort offers breathtaking views and is a high-performing rental property, generating an impressive $100K in revenue in its first 12 months! A true standout in the rental market, this unit underwent a top-to-bottom renovation in Fall/Winter '23/'24. (See Notable Features sheet in MLS Docs.) It is being sold FULLY FURNISHED, making it a turnkey investment or dream vacation home. Spanning over 1,800 square feet, this expansive unit boasts a thoughtfully designed floor plan. The floor-to-ceiling, 9-foot windows and sliding glass doors showcase panoramic, picture-perfect views of the Gulf and the iconic Navarre Beach Pier. These spectacular windows are featured throughout the living and dining area, as well as in the master bedroom and unique lock-out bedroom, ensuring that nearly every room is bathed in natural sunlight with captivating scenery. The unit features a lock-out bedroom, which includes its own private entrance, kitchenette, en-suite bathroom, hot water heater, and HVAC system. Step out onto the private balcony to take in the mesmerizing Gulf-front and sunset views, some of the very best that Navarre Beach has to offer. The modern, fully renovated kitchen is both stylish and functional, featuring sleek stainless steel appliances, contemporary white cabinetry, and an eye-catching backsplash. From its prime beachfront location to its exceptional design and rental potential, this unit is a rare find. Experience the best of Navarre Beach with luxury, comfort, and unbeatable Gulf views all in one place! $1,149,000 Active

8477 Gulf Boulevard 1001 Navarre, Florida

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,824 SqFt

Welcome to your own private waterfront retreat on Escambia Bay! This stunning 6-bedroom, 4-bathroom home is tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac and showcases an unbeatable backyard designed for both relaxation and entertaining. The backyard is a fenced oasis featuring mature trees, a sparkling fiberglass in-ground pool equipped with a new cordless robotic cleaner and sand cartridge, a relaxing hot tub, and a private dock. The dock is perfectly positioned for breathtaking west-facing sunset views! Added bonus, it's already permitted for a boathouse, offering incredible potential for boating enthusiasts. Outdoor entertaining is a breeze under the covered patio showcasing the modern glass bay doors, in addition to a second-story screened-in patio. With a metal roof and hurricane impact window s and doors, this home is built for peace of mind. Step inside to over 3,600 square feet of well designed living space with soaring ceilings and views of the bay. A spacious living room with a cozy fireplace features access to the second story screened in patio - a splendid space for outdoor relaxation and meals. The updated kitchen features marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, a new sink, and a large walk-in pantry. The primary suite is a true haven, complete with direct access to the screened-in patio, two generous walk-in closets, and a luxurious en suite bathroom with a double vanity, soaking tub, standing shower, and private water closet. Two additional bedrooms are located on the main floor, one with its own en suite bath. Upstairs, you'll find three more bedrooms and a bonus versatile loftperfect as a playroom, gym, or second living area. Storage won't be an issue with abundant closets throughout and a massive garage with space for four cars in addition to all your tools and toys. Located just off Avalon Blvd near I-10, this home offers convenient commuting and serene bayfront living. Come see what life on the water is all about! $1,020,000 Pending

2013 Eventide Road Milton, Florida

6 Beds 4 Baths 3,693 SqFt 0.49 Acres

Tucked away at the end of a quiet dead-end street, this 3-story coastal retreat offers privacy, breathtaking bay views, and direct water access. With 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, this home is a rare gem for those seeking tranquility and convenience. You can see the bay from nearly every room in the house! Step into an open living area that features built-in shelving, a fireplace, new LVP flooring, and access to a screened-in covered patio. The adjacent kitchen boasts ample cabinet space, a formal dining room, and a charming breakfast nook, creating the ideal space for entertaining and everyday living. In addition, there is a deck just off the kitchen, making it perfect for meals! The main-level primary suite is a private retreat with its own screened-in covered patio. The en suite bath is de signed for relaxation, featuring a soaking tub, standing shower, double vanities, walk-in closet, and direct laundry access for convenience. Upstairs, three additional bedrooms provide plenty of space for family and guests. One bedroom could serve as a secondary primary suite, complete with an en suite bath and two closet spaces. The two remaining bedrooms share a full bath, making this level perfect for families or visitors. Outside, enjoy everything waterfront living has to offer. The property includes a private pier, boat dock, boat lift that can hold up to 32K lbs, and a fully automatic 2-tray jet ski lift! The oversized two-car garage is a functional dream with a workshop, newly refinished floors, 2 storage closets, and washer/dryer hookups. A unique feature of this home is a doggy door leading to a fenced-in area, allowing pets easy access to the outdoors directly from the second floor. A covered two-car carport provides additional parking. Located just minutes from I-10, this property offers quick access to Pensacola or Gulf Breeze, while maintaining the peace and seclusion of bayfront living. Don't miss your chance to own this waterfront sanctuary! $875,000 Active

2857 N 1st Avenue Milton, Florida

4 Beds 4 Baths 2,921 SqFt 0.55 Acres

The Gulf-front FULLY REMODELED and NEWLY FURNISHED condo with over $103,000 INCOME potential. This is the definition of turn-key no matter if it's purchased for personal use OR vacation rental investment! The unit also was fully repainted and has all new ceiling fans and fixtures. The building has a new roof along with additional updates. (Please see full list in MLS Docs) With 3-Bedrooms, 2-Full Bathrooms, and 1,784 sqft, this condo is the cream of the crop for investment properties or luxury beach living. The Primary Suite is an oasis of its own, with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Gulf, private access to the balcony, walk-in closet, and a gorgeous ensuite bathroom accompanied with a double vanity! With two separate spacious bedrooms and another full-bathroom, you are provide d with ample space to host friends and family. Whether it's enjoying the sunrise on your private balcony, sitting pool-side listening to the ocean waves, or walking the white sandy beaches and infamous Navarre Beach pier, this condo provides something for everyone. You do not want to miss this opportunity to indulge in true luxury beach living. $875,000 Active

8477 Gulf Boulevard 1102 Navarre, Florida

3 Beds 2 Baths 1,784 SqFt

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Are you thinking of a career in real estate? Maybe you are thinking of moving your business to Keller Williams. Either way, the benefits of partnering with this incredible company are a clear advantage.

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Market Update: Historically Low Interest Rates, High Demand & Opportunity

 

Life on the Gulf Coast moves forward in our new normal. Our schools are shut down and only essential businesses are allowed to stay open. People have learned social distancing and we find more joy in the simple things in life. Real estate is deemed to be an essential business and despite the concern for COVID 19, buyers and sellers continue to make moves at a rapid pace. Listings are seeing multiple offers and buyers are locking in record low interest rates. We are taking precautions that protect our clients when showing and listings homes. Just a few months ago, we prepared for appointments with our clients by printing listing documents, presentations, and market data. Nowadays, we offer the same information with masks, gloves, social distancing & lots of hand sanitizer. It is interesting to get to know someone when you can’t see their facial expressions behind a mask.

Despite these troubled times, we know that there will be opportunities to invest in real estate. We are taking this time to check in on our clients and talk about how their family is doing. We discuss future investments, refinance and what they are doing to protect and maximize their real estate portfolio. We recognize and appreciate all of the sacrifice and hard work that our medical professionals, first responders, and essential business workers are doing to keep everyone healthy and safe. We are proud to be part of this Gulf Coast community that is pulling together to help each other in uncertain times. Call us to discuss your next move.

Building Legacies Through Real Estate

 

 

We all want to leave a great legacy for our family. There has never been a better time to invest in real estate. From management to cost to own, we have all the details to help you invest in real estate that can help to bring financial stability for generations to come. 

 

So go ahead and take a look below for some of the best investment condos on the Gulf Coast. Whether you are considering Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Pensacola Beach or Navarre Beach. We have the insight on these different markets and how you can build profitable investments for years to come. The Gulf Coast is the place to invest. Let us be a resource to lean on as you consider your options.

Investment Property on the Gulf Coast 

10 Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent

How to Interview an Agent:

Smart consumers interview potential real estate agents before deciding on whom to hire. Just as you are sizing up the potential for a good fit, rest assured that the real estate agent will likely be interviewing you, too. Be wary of agents who don’t ask you questions and probe for your motivation. You wouldn’t work with just any agent off the street, and good agents are just as selective about their clients, too.

Caution: Don’t interview agents from the same company!

1. How Long Have You Been in the Business?

The standard joke is there’s nothing wrong with a new agent that a little experience won’t fix. But that’s not to say that freshly licensed agents aren’t valuable. Much depends on whether they have access to competent mentors and the level of their training. Newer agents tend to have more time to concentrate on you. Some agents with 20 years of experience repeat their first year over and over. Other 20-year agents learn something new every year.

2. What is Your Average List-Price-to-Sales-Price Ratio?

Knowing the agent’s average ratio speaks volumes. Excluding sizzling seller’s markets, a good buyer’s agent should be able to negotiate a sales price that is lower than list price for buyers. A competent listing agent should hold a track record for negotiating sales prices that are very close to list prices. Therefore, listing agents should have higher ratios closer to 100%. Buyer’s agent ratios should fall below 99%.

3. What is Your Best Marketing Plan or Strategy for My Needs?

As a buyer, you will need to know:

  • How will you search for my new home?
  • How many homes will I likely see before I find a home I want to buy?
  • Will I be competing against other buyers?
  • How do you handle multiple offers?
  • Do you present offers yourself?

As a seller, you will need to know:

  • Specifically, how will you sell my home?
  • What is your direct mail campaign?
  • Where and how often do you advertise?
  • Will you show me a sample flyer?
  • How do you market online?

4. Will You Please Provide References?

Everybody has references. Even new agents have references from previous employers.

  • Ask to see references.
  • Ask if any of the individuals providing references are related to the agent.
  • Ask if you can call the references with additional questions.

5. What Are the Top Three Things That Separate You From Your Competition?

A good agent won’t hesitate to answer this question and will be ready to fire off why she is best suited for the job. Everyone has their own standards, but most consumers say they are looking for agents who say they are:

  • Honest and trustworthy
  • Assertive
  • Excellent negotiators
  • Available by phone or e-mail
  • Good communicators
  • Friendly
  • Analytical
  • Able to maintain a good sense of humor under trying circumstances

6. May I Review Documents Beforehand That I Will Be Asked to Sign?

A sign of a good real estate agent is a professional who makes forms available to you for preview before you are required to sign them. If at all possible, ask for these documents upfront.

As a buyer, ask for copies of the following:

  • Buyer’s Broker Agreement (is it exclusive or non-exclusive?)
  • Agency Disclosures
  • Purchase Agreement
  • Buyer Disclosures

As a seller, ask to see:

  • Agency Disclosure
  • Listing Agreement
  • Seller Disclosures

7. How Will You Help Me Find Other Professionals?

Let the real estate agent explain to you who she works with and why she chooses these professionals. Your agent should be able to supply you with a written list of referring vendors such as mortgage brokers, home inspectors and title companies. Ask for an explanation if you see the term “affiliated” because it could mean that the agent and her broker are receiving compensation from one or all of vendors, and you could be paying a premium for the service.

8. How Much Do You Charge?

Don’t ask if the fee is negotiable. All real estate fees are negotiable. Typically, real estate agents charge a percentage, from 1% to 4% to represent one side of a transaction: a seller or a buyer. A listing agent may charge, for example, 3.5% for herself and another 3.5% for the buyer’s agent, for a total of 7%.

9. What Kind of Guarantee Do You Offer?

If you sign a listing or buying agreement with the agent and later find that you are unhappy with the arrangement, will the agent let you cancel the agreement? Will the agent stand behind her service to you? What is her company’s policy about canceled agreements? Has anybody ever canceled an agreement with her before?

10. What Haven’t I Asked You That I Need to Know?

Pay close attention to how the real estate agent answers this question because there is always something you need to know, always. You want an agent to take her time with you — to make sure you feel comfortable and secure with her knowledge and experience. She should know how to listen and how to counsel you, how to ask the right questions to find out what she needs to know to better serve you.

Right Answers to Your Agent Interview Questions

It’s not enough to know which questions to ask your agent. The answers to those questions are how you will figure out which agent to hire. Below are the best answers to each question.

1. How Long Have You Been in the Business?

While I am not suggesting that you hire some aging geezer with a cane, experience does count. It can mean the difference between knowing how to handle a difficult situation to ignoring it or not recognizing the signs of a potential problem before it develops into a crisis. Minimum of five years’ experience.

2. Average List-to-Sales-Price Ratio

When hiring a listing agent, expect to see list-to-sales ratio within 97% to 100% in a buyer’s market; in a seller’s market: 100% to 110% of list price.When hiring a buyer’s agent, expect to see list-to-sales ratios within 90 to 97% in a buyer’s market; in a seller’s market: 100% to 103%.

3. Best Marketing Plan / Strategy

As a buyer, you should expect to see 5 to 7 homes a day, for as long as it takes to find your home. All the homes should fit your parameters, and the agent should preview those homes for you. The agent should also agree to solely represent you and not represent other buyers who are competing for the same inventory.As a seller, you would like your agent to advertise weekly for you, do direct mail, send e-flyers, produce four-color brochures, and present you with a marketing campaign designed specifically for you.

4. References

You might find references on an agent’s Web site, but you should also ask to see letters of reference. Clients often send thank you notes or letters to the agent’s broker. Check a minimum of three references.

5. Top Three Things That Make the Agent Different

Examples can range from marketing to knowledge. Acceptable answers are:

  • Strong repeat record of satisfied customers
  • Extensive online marketing
  • Good negotiation skills
  • Assertive, doesn’t take no for an answer
  • Strong communicator.

6. Review of Documents

As a buyer, ask to see a sample purchase agreement and ask the agent to point out your cancellation rights in this document. If the agent hems and haws, or hesitates to explain the purchase agreement to you, hire another agent.As a seller, ask to see the listing agreement. Ask about reserving the right to sell the home yourself. If you see a fee you do not understand, question it.

7. Affiliation with Related Professionals

Ask the agent if the title company she recommends charges competitive fees. All agents build teams of professionals, from title companies to escrow officers to mortgage lenders, home inspectors and appraisers. Ask if the agent’s company is receiving compensation for the referral. If so, you might want to choose another professional. Payment of some referral fees are against the law.

8. Agent Fees

All fees are negotiable. If you are a buyer, ask the agent if the fee stated in the buyer’s broker agreement will be adjusted if the offered seller’s compensation is lower.If you are a seller, ask about discounted fees. Sometimes agents will match fees offered by other agents.

9. Personal Guarantee

If the agent will not release you from a listing agreement prior to its expiration upon request, then you should hire another agent. Ask about it before you sign a listing agreement. Ditto with a buyer’s broker agreement. Some agents will release you; others will not.

10. Other Questions

You might ask the agent to reiterate your goals and objectives. If the agent does not appear to have a thorough understanding of what you want, despite your attempts to explain what you want, then hire somebody else. Some agents do not listen very well. You want an agent who will listen to you and communicate with you. The best way to find out if the agent comprehends your desires is to ask the agent to repeat it back to you.

3 Improvements for the Best ROI

Before you tackle a home improvement project, be sure it’s adding value to your home. Here are three updates that may give your home value a measurable boost:

1. Insulate your attic. Energy efficiency remains a top draw for buyers, and blow-in fiberglass insulation is an inexpensive way to make your home warmer in the winters and cooler in the summers.

2. Replace your garage door. New garage doors come equipped with better insulation and higher-strength steel, making for fewer dings and dents.

3. Upgrade your front door. Steel entry doors offer enhanced security and eliminate the hassle of flaking paint jobs down the road.

C: 850-490-1519 | O: 850-916-5800
913 Gulf Breeze Pkwy., Suite 44
Gulf Breeze, FL 32561