Preparing Your Home For Summer Vacation

Summer has arrived and while many families plan for their summer vacation months in advance, did you know that you need to prepare your home for your vacation as well?  Below are a few tips on what you should do to prepare your home for your upcoming vacation.   

•  Mow your grass before you leave for your vacation.  I would suggest that you set the mower on the shortest cut you can get so that you don’t have to worry about it growing up while you are gone.  If you are going to be gone for an extended period of time you may want to arrange to have a family member mow your yard at least once while you are gone.  Mowing your yard before vacation makes it look like you are still at home and therefore may keep away potential intruders. 

• Another thing you should do before you leave on vacation this coming summer is to contact the post office and have your mail canceled while you are gone.  You can pick your mail up at the post office once you arrive back home and start your service back up.  This may sound like a huge ordeal but it really is an easy way to keep things neat and tidy while you are away from home.  This simple act will also deter intruders.

• If you don’t want your house to stand out as if no one is home, you may need to install a flood light that is activated by motion outside of your home.  This way if someone walks up to your house that is not suppose to be there the neighbors will be able to see them and can report anything out of the ordinary.  Another thing you can do with lights is to set a few inside lights on a timer so that it looks like you are home.

• Some water heaters have a VAC mode otherwise known as a vacation mode. If you have this setting on your water heater it’s a good idea to use it while you are away.  Doing this is not only a good way to save on your bill but it is also a good way to avoid any type of flooding that may occur while you are gone.  The last thing you want to come home to is a flooded house due to a broken or burst pipe.

Hopefully these tips will get you started in the right direction before you set off on your summer vacation and you’ll be able to relax and have fun without worrying about your house! 

Courtesy of the  Lina Arbelaez

When you are buying or selling property in today's market, it's important to have confidence in your Real Estate professional. The Real Estate International Group’s commitment as your REALTOR® is to provide you with the specialized Real Estate service you deserve.

When you are an informed buyer or seller, you'll make the best decisions for the most important purchase or sale in your lifetime. That's why The Real Estate International Group’s goal is to keep you informed on trends in Miami Real Estate. With property values continuing to rise, Real Estate is a sound investment for now and for the future.

As local Broward & Miami-Dade area experts with knowledge of the communities, The Real Estate International Group’s objective is to work diligently to assist you in meeting your real estate goals.

If you are considering buying or selling or would just like to have additional information about Real Estate in your area, please don't hesitate to call 954-600-8739, visit our website, or e-mail info.premiersouthfloridahomes@gmail.com  

The Canadian Existing Home Buyer

Thursday, July 9, 2015

The Canadian Existing Home Buyer
 

Over the 12 months ended March 2015, Canadians purchased U.S. properties at an estimated $11.2 billion in total value, a decrease from last year’s level of $13.8 billion, based on information from NAR’s 2015 Profile of Home Buying Activity of International Clients. Canadian buyers accounted for approximately 11 percent of total international sales in dollar volume.  Close to 80 percent were non-resident clients.  About 41 percent of purchases were in Florida, and 16 percent were in Arizona, which are preferred destinations for their warm climates.  About 47 percent of purchases were for vacation purposes, so Canadians preferred to purchase in suburban and resort areas.  There is almost an even split between single family-detached homes and condominiums and townhouses combined.  On average, Canadian buyers purchased a property valued at $380,292. About 73 percent of buyers purchased on an all-cash basis.

Information provided by National Association of Realtors

Courtesy of  Lina Arbelaez-REIG KW

When you are buying or selling property in today's market, it's important to have confidence in your Real Estate professional. The Real Estate International Group’s commitment as your REALTOR® is to provide you with the specialized Real Estate service you deserve.

When you are an informed buyer or seller, you'll make the best decisions for the most important purchase or sale in your lifetime. That's why The Real Estate International Group’s goal is to keep you informed on trends in Miami Real Estate. With property values continuing to rise, Real Estate is a sound investment for now and for the future.

As local Broward & Miami-Dade area experts with knowledge of the communities, The Real Estate International Group’s objective is to work diligently to assist you in meeting your real estate goals.

If you are considering buying or selling or would just like to have additional information about Real Estate in your area, please don't hesitate to call 954-600-8738, visitmywebsite, or e-mail linaflrealtor@gmail.com 

 

MEMBER OF THE AWARD WINNNIG REIG-KW

Home Security Systems: 8 Important Questions to Ask Yourself

In the summertime, there are barbeques and burglaries. A lot of burglaries. July and August are the most common months for the crime to be committed, with one burglary happening every 14 seconds. That means that by the time you’ve finished reading this post, at least 10 burglaries would have happened. Scary, right?
And alarm systems aren’t just for strangers. We heard from BrightNest user Mia Rossen who shared a house key with her partner. After they broke up, he returned the key, but kept a copy for himself. While she was at work, her neighbors reported that he would spend a couple hours at her house each day. A low-fi security system rigged up to a webcam and a remote desktop revealed that her creepy ex had been stalking her Facebook messages and personal calendar, and moving her photo displays around her home.
"I took precautions when I went on vacations, but lights on timers didn't deter untrustworthy people that were already in my life." Mia says. Thankfully, Mia now rests easy with an automated alarm and camera system. 
But how do you know which alarm system is right for you? Peace of mind is priceless, but there are a lot of scams floating around out there. Before you decide to buy and install a security system, do your homework. There are several factors to consider, including the length of time you’re often away from home, cost and comfort.
Here’s a breakdown of the important questions to ask yourself before you buy:

1. Do You Rent or Own?

If you own your home, you have the flexibility to choose any security system that fits your needs. But if you rent, you should opt for a wireless system you install yourself and that can be removed easily. These systems run off of an internet connection and are not wired into your home. Basically, you want to own the equipment so you can easily take it with you when you head on to your next spot.

2. How Long Do You Plan on Living in Your House?

Security system contracts can be up to ten years. If you’re planning on selling your home in the next two to three years, you should pay attention to the fine print. Some companies offer a moving program, which allows you to bring the equipment and contract with you when you move.
If you’re planning on moving soon, you should think like a renter and opt for a system that allows you to own your own equipment. That way, you won’t even need to worry about a moving clause. You can just pick up and go.

3. Do You Want a Camera?

You know you want protection. But do you need a camera? Not all companies offer cameras, so you should decide before you sign on the dotted line. If you’re gone for long periods of time and like the idea of seeing what’s happening in your home, a camera may worth it. Cameras are typically accessible online or on your mobile device, so you can check in anytime. They’re also a great way to monitor childcare, elderly family members and pets when you’re out of the house. Plus, if something goes boom in the night, you can scan your house from the your bed.
If cameras are a “yes” for you, there are several options:
Fixed Security Camera: A basic attached camera that doesn’t zoom, change directions or move.
Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera: Aptly named, these cameras are fixed on a wall and pan, tilt or zoom to follow a mobile object. Some companies even have the option of controlling the camera from your smartphone.
Wireless Camera: These cameras connect to your security system through an internet connection.
Outdoor Camera: Outdoor cameras typically have night vision, meaning you’ll be able to see sneaky burglars and raccoons at any hour of the day.
Hidden Camera: Ever heard of a nanny cam? It’s also called a “hidden camera.” These cameras can be concealed in just about anything, including a large teddy bear.
Fake Camera: Don’t laugh. Sometimes all you need to keep burglars away is the suggestion of a security system. Plus, these bad boys are a lot cheaper than their real counterparts.

4. Do You Need Burglar System or Alarm System?

Yes, these are different things. A burglar system is the most stripped down option, basically there to alert you if someone breaks into your house. An alarm system, on the other hand, includes fire safety devices like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide trouble. If you’re looking for a system that includes automated locks, cameras, and the works, you should choose a home security system. Choose the most comprehensive option that makes you comfortable and that you can afford.

5. What is Your Budget?

A small budget doesn’t mean an unsafe house. Basic burglar alarms can be purchased on Amazon for as little as $20. The more bells and whistles you want to secure your home, the more it’s going to cost you. Most monitored home security systems come with an annual fee of $100 or more, so read the fine print before signing any contracts.

6. Do I want to DIY?

If you buy a simple burglar alarm, go for it! It should be fairly simple to install. If you’re opting for a wireless option, you may be able to install it yourself, but it could get tricky. If you’re uncomfortable, we recommend opting for a professional installation. And if you’re choosing a wired-in, monitored option, you pretty much have to have it installed. Professional options are typically available through the provider of your choice.

7. Do You Want a Self-Monitored or Central-Monitored System?

If you opt for a self-monitored system, you are notified when something is amiss at your home directly from your alarm. This means you’re responsible for then notifying the authorities. With a central-monitored system, someone else does the legwork. That peace of mind will cost you, though, typically through annual fees.

8. When’s the Right Time to Buy?

Once you’ve chosen the type of system or alarm that’s best for you, we recommend doing your homework. There are often move-in rates available if you’re a new homeowner, and possibly deals offered throughout the year. Angie’s List is a great place to check for local service providers offering discounts. 

Provided by Brightnest

Information Courtesy of Lina Arbelaez & Premier South Florida Homes 954-600-8739

Search for Premier South Florida Homes for Sale

 

MEMBER OF THE AWARD WINNING REIG-KW