home safety

Renovations With a Strong Return on Investment

Renovations that make homeowners and residents of a home happy are always worth the investment. Though it’s certainly true that projects that create more functional, usable space and add comfort and convenience are worth the price, such renovations are even more beneficial if they provide a good return on homeowners’ financial investment ( ROI).

Returns on investment (ROI) are often cashed in when homeowners put their homes up for sale, and each year Remodeling magazine releases its “Cost vs. Value Report,” which considers a wealth of data across the United States to determine which renovations return the highest percentage of homeowners’ financial investment.

According to the “2024 Cost vs. Value Report,” the following are projects that provide a strong return on investment (ROI):

Enhance curb appeal:First impressions matter, so improving your home’s curb appeal can significantly impact its value. Simple upgrades such as landscaping, exterior painting, and installing a new entry door can make a substantial difference. According to industry experts, enhancing curb appeal can yield an ROI of up to 200%.

Garage door replacement: The average job cost for this project is slightly more than $4,500 but the project is valued at $8,751, providing an especially high 194% ROI.

Steel door replacement: Remodeling magazine notes that a steel entry door replacement is worth double what it was worth in 2023. This project offers a 188% ROI on an average investment of $2,355.

Manufactured stone veneer: A manufactured stone veneer is a man-made product that appears as if it’s natural stone. Many homeowners prefer manufactured stone veneer to natural stone because of the price, as the former is less expensive and easier to install, which means lower labor costs as well. The comparatively low cost of manufactured stone veneer is perhaps one reason why it averages a roughly 153% ROI on an average cost of just more than $11,000.

Minor kitchen remodel: According to the “2024 U.S. Houzz & Home Study” from Houzz Research, kitchens were the most popular rooms to renovate in 2023. There’s no denying the appeal of a newly renovated kitchen, and homeowners considering such a project may be happy to learn that a minor kitchen remodel that costs an average of around $27,000 provides a 96% ROI.

Renovate bathrooms:Bathrooms are another high-impact area for home improvements. Remodeling a bathroom can provide a return on investment of around 81% for an addition and approximately 71% for a complete renovation.

Simple upgrades to bathroom fixtures can also go a long way in improving your home’s value. Consider replacing outdated faucets, showerheads, and toilets with modern, water-efficient options. This improvement offers a high return on investment and enhances your bathroom’s overall look and functionality.

Roof Replacement: A well-maintained roof is essential for any home and replacing an old or damaged roof can significantly increase its value. Additionally, a new roof provides peace of mind for potential buyers. Roof replacements offer a high return on investment, with homeowners recouping the entire cost.

Install Smart home and Home Security Technology: Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Integrating features such as smart thermostats, lighting systems, and security cameras can enhance the appeal and value of your home. Smart home features offer a return on investment of up to 10%.

Investing in smart home security measures will enhance your peace of mind and increase your home’s value. Upgrades such as motion sensor lighting and sturdy locks can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Smart thermostats are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer several benefits, such as energy savings and remote control. Installing a smart thermostat can increase the value of your home by up to 3%.

When considering home improvements in Florida, focusing on projects that offer the best return on investment is crucial. Enhancing curb appeal, upgrading key areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, and investing in energy-efficient features are all smart choices. Strategic improvements can increase your home’s value and attract potential buyers in the competitive Florida real estate market. Remember to consult with local professionals to ensure that you choose improvements that align with the preferences and needs of Florida homebuyers.

Filed under: 2024 real estate, 4 Point Inspection, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, EBA, Energy efficiency, Energy efficient homes, Florida Real Estate, home automation, Home Buyer Advice, Home decorating, home equity, Home Maintenance, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Interior Design, Investment ROI, Real Estate, Real Estate Investment, Real estate trends, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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Summer Home Safety Tips

Have big plans for this summer? Many families across Florida and the nation will spend time away from home during the summer months.

To fully enjoy those activities and other summertime pursuits spent away from home, homeowners should take precautions to protect their residences when they’re not around. Crime rates across the country often start to peak as temperatures rise during the warm weather months – the same time that many families leave their homes unoccupied and unprotected.

Homeowners can take these simple precautions to make their homes less of a target for criminals:

No “Home Alone”: Before leaving your home during the day, make it look as if someone is still at home by using timers on lights in various rooms. Even though daylight hours are longer during the summer, it may still get dark faster than you expect or you may return home later than anticipated, and taking this step ensures that your home appears occupied at all times.

No Sharing on Social Media: Sharing your vacation plans on social media sites isn’t wise. That’s the same as announcing to the world you’ll be gone and the house will be empty – a perfect target for burglars or vandals. The same goes for phone messages.

No Open-Door Policy: Ensure that all doors leading to the home and garage are locked, even when leaving for short periods of time. The typical burglary takes less than five minutes and unlocked doors, combined with an empty home, put out the “welcome mat” for crime. Make sure windows are locked, too.

Someone to Watch Over Me: Be landscape smart. Shrubbery and other plants can grow very rapidly during the warm, wet summer months. Keep them trimmed so neighbors can easily see your home. Also, a burglar could see an unkempt yard as a sign of an empty home.

A Key Reminder: When leaving home, take your house keys along or leave a spare set with a trusted neighbor. Never leave a key under a welcome mat, in a mailbox or other hiding spots – most burglars know where to look.

Crime Doesn’t Take a Vacation: If you’re planning to be away from home for more than a day or two, ask a neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers – or arrange to cancel the paper and hold the mail. Disable your garage door opener and manually lock it from the inside, and don’t forget to check that the door leading from the garage to the home is locked, too.

Filed under: 2024 real estate, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Exclusive Buyer Agency, Florida Real Estate, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Home Maintenance, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Homeowners Insurance, real estate news, smart home by Kim Bregman
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Termite Awareness Week- March 10-16, 2024

Florida is home to over twenty different species of termites with the most damaging and common species are subterranean and drywood termites. These termites cause billions of dollars of damage annually in the United States and correct termite identification is pivotal to successful prevention, control, and protection of your home.

Subterranean termites live and invade from underground, and a single colony can cover one acre underneath
homes. They typically live in dark, moist, hidden environments underground but will create and live in carton
nests aboveground. These can be found in walls and attics of structures and in nearby trees. To move above the
ground, these termites build mud tubes on foundations, walls, and nearby trees. These mud tubes are a sign
of termite activity and used for detection.

Drywood termites live and forage in dry wood. There are many different species of drywood termites in Florida,
and these are located throughout the state. They enter structures through swarming from infested trees, stored
wood, or other structures near your home. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termite colonies grow
slowly and thus do not cause as much damage as subterranean termites. A tell-tale sign of drywood termites are
sawdust-like piles near the infestation, these piles are hexagonal shaped pellets or waste of the termite.

Actions you can take to keep air home termite free are:

Eliminate sources of standing water in or near the home.
Be wary of areas in the home where wood is in contact with soil.
Keep piles of lumber or firewood away from your home.
Regularly inspect your deck, patio, or outdoor furniture for signs of damage.
Remove decaying trees and branches from areas surrounding your yard.
Use pine needles, pea gravel, rubber, or other non-organic material as mulch.

Part of your Inspections before purchasing a home should include Wood Destroying Organisms ( WDO) Inspection. Unlike most states, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) requires the licensed WDO Inspector to report on Wood Destroying Organisms.

The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services recommends that you hire a licensed pest control company for correct termite identification and protection for your home. You can find out if a company is licensed in Florida at: https://www.fdacs.gov/Business-Services/Pest-Control. For more info and tips: https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Health-and-Safety/Protect-Your-Home-from-Pests/Termites.

Filed under: 2024 real estate, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Real Estate, Home Buyers, home Inspections, Home Maintenance, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Real Estate, Real Estate Investment, real estate news, South Florida Real Estate, Termites, WDO Inspection by Kim Bregman
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Benefits of Energy Efficient Homes

A recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that energy-efficient features are among the most sought-after “must-haves” among homebuyers. Among those surveyed, 83% desired Energy Star-rated windows, 81% wanted Energy Star-rated appliances and 80% preferred energy-efficient lighting.

Though eco-conscious sensibilities compel millions of homeowners to make their homes more energy-efficient, that’s not the only reason to upgrade your home. The following are a handful of the many benefits of energy-efficient homes.

Save money: The U.S. Department of Energy indicates upgrading to energy efficient appliances products can help homeowners reduce their energy costs by as much as 30%. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates you can save 11% on average on your total energy costs by air sealing your home and adding insulation in the attic and crawl spaces.

Improve resale value: Being able to market your home as energy-efficient when it comes time to sell it may help your resale value, especially as energy-efficient homes become better-known and more in-demand.

According to several studies, energy-efficient homes and apartments garner anywhere from 2% to 8% more in sales prices than their traditional counterparts. Research from the mortgage lender Freddie Mac found that homes with energy-efficient ratings sold for nearly 3% more on average than homes without such ratings.

Live healthier: The benefits of energy-efficient homes aren’t just economic, though health-related benefits certainly produce an economic incentive as well.

Energy-efficient homes boost your comfort level by also enhancing the indoor air quality by reducing pollen, dust, insects, and humidity, which leads to better quality of life.

Energy-efficient appliances are typically quieter than traditional models, as well, making their operation less intrusive to your daily life.

To learn more and find out how to perform some of these improvements yourself, visit DOE’s Energy Saver website.

Tools and Calculators for Homes:

Air Seal and Insulate with ENERGY STAR

Information, tools, and resource to help consumers seal and insulate their homes, including a DIY Guide to Sealing and Insulating with ENERGY STAR.

Assess Your Home with ENERGY STAR

Information, tools, and resources to help consumers assess their home’s energy use, including the ENERGY STAR Home Advisor and the ENERGY STAR Home Energy Yardstick.

Building Energy Software

List of building energy software packages, some of which are available for free or a small fee.

ENERGY STAR Refrigerator Retirement Savings Calculator

A tool that allows a consumer to determine energy savings and costs associated with replacing non-ENERGY STAR-rated refrigerators.

Heat & Cool Efficiently with ENERGY STAR

Information, tools, and resources to help consumers increase the efficiency of their home’s heating and cooling system.

Roof Savings Calculator

A tool developed as an industry-consensus roof savings calculator for residential and commercial buildings using whole-building energy simulations.

Filed under: 2024 real estate, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Energy efficiency, Energy efficient homes, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Real Estate, home automation, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, new home construction, Real Estate, real estate news, Real estate trends, smart home, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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Tips to Reduce Home Insurance Costs in South Florida?

Are you a home buyer in Florida looking to save money on your insurance costs? Here are some expert tips to help you reduce your home and wind insurance expenses.

Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first insurance quote you receive. Take the time to compare prices from multiple insurers. By doing so, you can find the best coverage at the most competitive rates.

Increase Deductibles: Consider raising your deductibles to lower your premium. While this means you’ll pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim, it can significantly reduce your monthly insurance costs. Make sure you take on a deductible that won’t leave you financially overwhelmed when you need to make a major claim.

Improve Home Security: Installing security measures such as alarms, deadbolts, and smoke detectors can make your home safer and lower your insurance premiums. Insurers often offer discounts for homes with enhanced security features.

Bundle Policies: If you have multiple insurance needs, consider bundling your auto, umbrella, home and wind insurance with the same provider. This can lead to substantial savings on your premiums.

Maintain a Good Credit Score: Believe it or not, your credit score can affect your insurance rates. Pay your bills on time, keep your credit utilization low, and regularly check your credit report for errors to maintain a good credit score and potentially lower your insurance costs.

Consider Wind Mitigation Measures: Living in Florida means being prepared for hurricanes. By fortifying your home against wind damage with measures like impact-resistant windows and reinforced roof trusses, you can qualify for wind mitigation discounts.

Avoid Making Small Claims: While insurance is designed to protect you from significant financial losses, making multiple small claims can lead to higher premiums. Consider handling minor repairs out of pocket to avoid impacting your insurance rates.

Look for Discounts: t’s easy to miss a discount you’re eligible for. Homeowners often have the stress of the home-buying process in the background when they get coverage, meaning insurance could be one thing hurriedly checked off the list. You can qualify for discounts if you:

Have a residence with no smokers
Pay your premium upfront
Pick paperless billing
Sign up for automatic payments

Remember, every insurance policy is unique, so it’s essential to speak with a qualified insurance agent to find the best ways to lower your home and wind insurance costs in Florida. Don’t let high premiums take away from the joy of homeownership – take action today and start saving!

Filed under: 4 Point Inspection, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Exclusive Buyer Agency, Exclusive Buyer Agent, First Time Homebuyers, Flood Insurance, Florida Real Estate, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Home Maintenance, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Homeowners Insurance, Hurricane Preparedness, Insurance Claims, Real Estate, real estate news, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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Hurricane Preparedness Before Your Vacation

As a Floridian, you already know the drill: hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30 each year, and certain hurricane preparations are needed to protect your home when storms appear to be heading your way. But what happens if you are some distance away, or even out of state, when this occurs? You can still prepare ahead of time – and a few extra steps is all it takes to secure your home while you’re away.

Performing the following hurricane preparation before vacation will allow you to relax and enjoy family time, or the scenery wherever you’re vacationing.

Insurance Coverage. Every year, you should review your homeowners, flood, and wind insurance policies to make sure you will have the coverage you need should your home be in the path of the next major hurricane or storm surge. Ideally, this is done before hurricane season begins, but should absolutely be done before you leave on vacation.

Home Safety Measures. Whatever hurricane preparedness you might normally do if you were home when a storm was approaching, do before you leave on vacation. This includes closing/installing your hurricane shutters, trimming trees, and bringing in any outdoor furniture or other items subject to becoming projectiles during a hurricane. Doing all of this before a storm is even on the horizon might seem like overkill – but the peace of mind it provides should bad weather threaten while you’re away will be priceless. Especially since you won’t be able to do much from a distance.

Electronics, Water & Gas. Consider unplugging valuable electronics and appliances to avoid potential power surges as the result of a hurricane or tropical storm. Alternatively, you could opt to turn the power off at the breaker. To avoid potential leaks, you may also want to consider turning off the main water and gas valves to your home.

Inform a Trusted Neighbor or Friend. Let someone you trust know about your vacation plans, including when you’ll be away, how you might be contacted, and any relevant details about your home security or other systems. They may be able to keep an eye on your home in your absence should a hurricane develop.

Ready the Emergency Kit. Stock up on supplies you would rely on if you were home during a hurricane, such as flashlights, batteries, first-aid kits, nonperishable food, and an ample supply of bottled water. This hurricane preparedness will be helpful if you return home without power or access to supplies are limited. Store a small version of this kit in your car, and top off the tank.

Have a Backup Plan. Should you be unable to get to your home upon your return from vacation, or if your home is damaged by a hurricane or tropical storm, have a contingency plan of possible friends or nearby locations you may be able to shelter in until your home is safe to return to.

‍Stay Informed. Even with all the right hurricane preparedness before you leave on vacation, you’ll want to monitor weather conditions from afar, especially once a hurricane or tropical storm has been identified. You’ll be able to make the best decisions when they are informed by as much information – and preparation – as possible.

Filed under: Blog, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Flood Insurance, Home Buyer Advice, Home Maintenance, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Homeowners Insurance, Hurricane Preparedness, Insurance Claims, Uncategorized by Kim Bregman
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Benefits of Home Automation

Home automation is increasingly popular as technology improves and devices become more affordable. Smart home automation works by connecting various devices in your home to a central hub or directly to a network. These devices can then be controlled remotely through a smartphone app, voice assistant or web interface.

Smart home components like security or climate control can be integrated with other smart devices, like your home entertainment system. This allows you to create a comprehensive and integrated smart home system that can automate many different tasks.

There are tons of reasons you may want to invest in home automation, but they generally fall into four categories.

Convenience. This is one of the primary reasons people start down the smart-home path. It just makes life a little easier when your home automates all the mundane tasks you used to have to do on a day-to-day basis.
Safety. A lot of smart-home technology is centered around your home’s security system, and there’s a good reason for that. No one piece of security equipment will protect your home comprehensively, but a network of pieces of equipment all working and thinking together can.
Sustainability. A lot of energy is wasted when you leave the lights on or keep your AC running when you’re gone for the weekend. A truly smart home will adjust itself to your habits and make sure your environmental impact is a little lighter.
Savings. You waste a lot of money when you leave things running unnecessarily. Your smart home will improve your economic efficiency by helping you remember to turn things off or down when they’re not needed

Here’s some of what the marketplace currently has to offer:

Detectors – Smart detectors provide peace of mind, so you aren’t left worrying that you forgot something. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are vital additions to any home. Gas and water leak detectors are good additions as well.
Heating and Cooling – With the initial success of 2011’s Nest Learning Thermostat, this product category is most associated with home automation.
Lighting – With the ability to control lights through your tablet or phone, intelligent lighting has become the initial step many take in setting up smart home technology.
Security Systems – This area has taken home automation to the next level. A lot of the newer, more advanced smart home tech is in this category, with keyless entry, camera equipment, and more. D
Hubs – Hubs, for the most part, are what tie your systems together. .
Appliances – Get a text message from your washer when a load finishes. Have your fridge create your grocery list for you. Shut the coffee pot off from work. Smoke a brisket for a few hours while remotely controlling its temperature. All possibilities with smart appliances.
Energy Management – Track your energy use and make changes in real time, from any location.
Lawn and Landscape Care – Control your pool cleaner, mow your lawn or set the irrigation system, all via smartphone app.
Window Coverings – Automatic shades and blinds timed to open or close with your bedtime or wake up call.

Technology experts say that tomorrow’s smart homes will have more seamless smart home device integration, more intelligent home appliances and gadgets, movement into the virtual world, and increased customization, efficiency, and control.

Filed under: 2022 Real Estate, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Florida Real Estate, home automation, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, Home Maintenance, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Real Estate, Real estate trends, smart home, South Florida Real Estate, Uncategorized by Kim Bregman
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2022 Hurricane Preparedness Guide

2023 Hurricane Preparedness Guide

Look carefully at the safety actions associated with each type of hurricane hazard and prepare your family disaster plan accordingly. But remember this is only a guide. The first and most important thing anyone should do when facing a hurricane threat is to use common sense.

Know Hurricane Terms:

Hurricane Watch – A hurricane is possible within thirty-six hours. Stay tuned for additional information.

Hurricane Warning – A hurricane is expected within twenty-four hours. You may be advised to evacuate. If so, evacuate immediately.

Storm Surge – Storm surge is simply water that is pushed toward the shore by the force of the winds swirling around the storm. This advancing surge combines with the normal tides to create the hurricane storm tide, which can increase the mean water level 15 feet or more.

Ask your local emergency preparedness office about evacuation plans. Learn evacuation routes.

Plan a place to meet your family in case you are separated from one another in the hurricane.
Assemble a disaster supplies kit ( See information below)
Board up windows. Permanent storm shutters and impact glass offer the best protection. Also, you can use 5/8″ marine plywood. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
Know how to shut off utilities.
Make a record of your personal property (take digital photos or video tape the contents of your home and/or business and keep in a waterproof container with you along with your homeowners insurance policy or better yet, upload everything to the Cloud)
Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
Determine how and where to secure your boat.
Reduce the water level in your pool by about 1 foot. DO NOT drain your pool.
Charge cell phones and back up batteries
Get extra cash since ATMs will be inoperative if power is lost.
Consider flood insurance and purchase it well in advance.

Have a Place To Go:

Develop a family hurricane preparedness plan before an actual storm threatens your area. If your family hurricane preparedness plan includes evacuation to a safer location for any of the reasons specified with in this web site, then it is important to consider the following points:

If ordered to evacuate, do not wait or delay your departure.

If possible, leave before local officials issue an evacuation order for your area. Even a slight delay in starting your evacuation will result in significantly longer travel times as traffic congestion and weather deteriorates worsens.

Select an evacuation destination that is nearest to your home, preferably in the same county, or at least minimize the distance over which you must travel in order to reach your intended shelter location. In choosing your destination, keep in mind that the hotels and other sheltering options in most inland metropolitan areas are likely to be filled very quickly in a large, multi-county hurricane evacuation event.

If you decide to evacuate to another county or region, be prepared to wait in traffic.

The large number of people in this state who must evacuate during a hurricane will probably cause massive delays and major congestion along most designated evacuation routes; the larger the storm, the greater the probability of traffic jams and extended travel times.

If possible, make arrangements to stay with the friend or relative who resides closest to your home and who will not have to evacuate. Discuss with your intended host the details of your family evacuation plan well before the beginning of the hurricane season.

If a hotel or motel is your final intended destination during an evacuation, make reservations before you leave. Most hotel and motels will fill quickly once evacuations begin. The longer you wait to make reservations, even if an official evacuation order has not been issued for your area or county, the less likely you are to find hotel/motel room vacancies, especially along interstate highways and in major metropolitan areas.

If you are unable to stay with friends or family and no hotels/motels rooms are available, then as a last resort go to a shelter. Remember, shelters are not designed for comfort and do not usually accept pets. Bring your disaster supply kit with you to the shelter. Find Pet-Friendly hotels and motels.

Make sure that you fill up your car with gas, before you leave.

Preparing Your Pets for Emergencies Makes Sense.

Get Ready Now.

If you are like millions of animal owners nationwide, your pet is an important member of your household. The likelihood that you and your animals will survive an emergency such as a fire or flood, tornado or hurricane depends largely on emergency planning done today. Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling an animal emergency supply kit and developing a pet care buddy system, are the same for any emergency. Whether you decide to stay put in an emergency or evacuate to a safer location, you will need to make plans in advance for your pets. Keep in mind that what’s best for you is typically what’s best for your animals.

If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if possible. However, if you are going to a public shelter, it is important to understand that animals may not be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pets.

Make a back-up emergency plan in case you can’t care for your animals yourself. Develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe longer.

Disaster Supply Kit

I personally prepare a hurricane closet in May with all the needed supplies and materials so that there is never a last minute rush to the store when the shelves have been cleaned out.

Water :

Plan on one gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days, for drinking, washing, cooking, and sanitation. Extra water for pets
Store as much as possible in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles.
Avoid using breakable containers, such as glass bottles or mason jars.
Fill bathtubs with water for bathing and washing dishes

Food :

Store at least a three day supply of non perishable food.
Choose foods that do not require refrigeration or cooking.
Choose foods that are healthy and high nutrition type. (Canned meats, fruits and vegetables, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, peanut butter, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, canned juices, non-perishable pasteurized milk, high enery foods, vitamins, food for infants and pets, comfort/stress foods)

Supplies and Equipment:

A battery operated radio with extra batteries
NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
A flashlight with extra batteries
Blankets or sleeping bags ( store in trash bags to keep dry)
Paper plates and utensils, including a non electric can opener
Candles and matches in a waterproof container
Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, moist towelettes, and other personal grooming items
Paper towels and toilet paper
First aid kit and medicines ( ask your pharmacist or drug supply company for a one month hurricane supply and store in water proof container)
Fire extinguisher
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Cell phone and plug in battery operated charger
Infant formula and diapers
Books, games and toys to keep kids occupied ( remember those batteries)
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records, COVID Vaccine Passport, in a waterproof, portable container
Complete change of clothing including long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes
Insect repellent and sun-screen
Paper and pencil
Local Maps
Make sure to keep all of your medications filled.

Business Preparedness

* Have an emergency communication plan in place before the storm hits. How will co-workers stay in contact if the physical location of a business is damaged?

* Turn off all non-critical work devices before the storm hits.

* Alert a third party about business evacuation plans in case a storm makes it impossible to get to your place of business.

* Protect important business documents that you may need quickly, such as property insurance policies.

* Have cash on hand to pay employees or contractors after the storm.

* Know which employees are certified in CPR, EMT, etc.

* If possible, disconnect a building’s main electrical feeds.

* Have a plan to notify all employees, post-storm, about damage and how you’ll move forward.

* Review contracts that are date sensitive and have a backup plan in place to handle potential problems.

* Assess all functions that could be impacted by a lapse in business – cash flow, bills, budgets and any upcoming events.

Links to Hurricane Information:

National Hurricane Center

NWS Hurricane Awareness site

FEMA Hurricane Info

American Red Cross

FEMA

Filed under: 2022 Real Estate, Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Exclusive Buyer Agency, First Time Homebuyers, Flood Insurance, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Homeowners Insurance, Hurricane Preparedness, Insurance Claims, real estate news, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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“Buyer Beware” of Newly Renovated Homes

‘Renovate’, according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary means “ renew, restore, refresh, and rejuvenate all mean to make like new.” When the phrase “completely remodeled or renovated” is used in the description of a listing, many homebuyers expect the entire house to be completely updated. But in residential real estate, a house advertised as “completely remodeled” may have several big-ticket items, such as the roof, HVAC system, appliances, pool, and windows that are either original or close end of their useful life.

This is particularly true with investor “Fix and Flips”. Buyers may find a newly flipped home more appealing because much of it feels new – but not all flips are the same. In any given price range, every property you’re going to look at will have its pros and cons. You certainly don’t need to avoid properties that are being flipped, but there are some things to watch out for if you’re looking at one.

You can easily tell if the home is a flip by looking at the property records. If the home is back on the market just a few months after being purchased by a new owner, odds are it’s a flip. Flipped houses may seem up-to-date on the surface, but shiny new finishes can sometimes mask shoddy work. If you’re looking at a property that is being flipped, you’ll want to be sure to get it thoroughly inspected before you close and set aside money for any problems that may crop up because of renovations that were done on a tight budget and by an unlicensed contractor.

“Let the buyer beware” or “Caveat Emptor” exists for a reason. Home inspections do not necessary note the useful life left on roof, appliances and ACs since they are only checking to ensure that they are in “working order and free of defects”. With that in mind, here’s what to look for when a home is described as “completely remodeled” or represented as “new”.

Electrical:

The standard for household power used to be 60 amps. Today modern homes need as much as 200 amps to run all the electrical needs. High-definition televisions, computers, air conditioners, generators, and home automation devices require lots of power to run. Have a home inspector check the entry cable coming into the house and the electrical panel. If the house has original or outdated wiring, consider upgrading for safety and function purposes.

Electrical outlets all under the electrical upgrade category but it’s important to pay close attention to the electrical outlets in a home. We still see the old-fashioned 2 prong outlets in older homes. These older outlets do not have the ground wires to protect people and electrical devices in case of a fault. Today’s modern houses should have the 3 prong outlets for safety and function purposes. In kitchen, bathrooms, and exterior locations, look for GFCI outlets. These outlets protect against electrical shock. They have a test and reset button. GFCI’s are now code in all new construction.

Roof:

Depending on the size of a house and the style of shingles, a new roof can cost between $50-$100 per square foot of roof or more. The age of a roof is a very important consideration when buying a house. Your Exclusive Buyer Agent will find out from the Seller the age of the roof or will run a permit search in advance of writing an offer. If you move ahead with the purchase of the home, make sure your home inspector gives you an estimate on the remaining life of the roof not just how old it is.

. GFCI’s are now code in all new construction.

Water Heater & HVAC:

Most water heaters and AC units have an 8- to 12-year lifespan. If the heater is a high-quality water heater, it may last longer. Take a picture of the HVAC label and Google it to determine the age. If the unit has been well maintained, there will be a label from an HVAC company with service dates. Again, this can be done when you are touring a home. If you decide to purchase a house and schedule a home inspection, the inspector will confirm the age and condition of the HVAC unit and water heater.

Plumbing:

Plumbing problems can be very expensive. When you are touring a house that you like, turn on the faucets to check pressure. Look under sinks for signs of water issues. Look up at the ceiling to see if there are any stains. You can’t always see a plumbing problem but it’s a good idea to ask the seller if they have a record of plumbing maintenance, past leaks or insurance claims.

Foundation:

Look at the house exterior for signs of moisture or cracks. Examine the landscaping to see how well the yard is graded. Water should be moving away from the house, not toward the foundation. Again, this advice is for homebuyers as they tour a property of interest. Does the home have gutters directing the water way from the property?

General Warning Signs:

Seller has a spotty memory ….
Or says things like, “I haven’t lived here long.”
Offers no real estate disclosure form
New paint, tile, or flooring here and there

Landlords, flippers, and rehabbers often claim they don’t know a property well because they haven’t lived there — but all of them know a building’s ins and outs better than the buyer, especially if they have done work to the property.

Almost all states have a disclosure form where sellers address a property’s age and condition; its water source; the nature of its sanitary sewer system; and any structural defects, as well as matters such as lead paint or termites.

Florida, has a “Caveat Emptor” or “Buyer Beware” rule, which still requires the seller or seller’s agent to disclose anything that impacts the buyer’s health or safety but only if asked. In the case of a transactional agent, only if they have asked the Seller to tell them. There is no legal obligation to fill out a Sellers Disclosure Form and many Transactional Brokerages have a policy to NOT provide one.

What To Do:

Read the home inspector’s report carefully, including between the lines when the inspector uses phrases like, “a lot of issues” or “a major issue.” Ask your exclusive buyer agent to prod the sellers for more details. If the inspector couldn’t access certain places, ask why.
Ask for a disclosure form. Push for more answers to your questions. When a listing agent refuses to provide the standard disclosure form, I put all the questions in the form on an email and make it an Exhibit to the contract. The Seller has a legal obligation to answer questions asked directly.

Warning Sign #1: Cosmetic Cover-ups:

Fresh paint is a wonderful way to mask deficiencies. Paint can cover cracks in the walls or ceilings, mold, and water stains. New bathroom and kitchen tile hides cracks and structural damage. New carpeting is a recommended fix to cover floor tiles containing asbestos, poor sub-floors or previous leaks, but buyers likely still want to know what’s underneath.

What To Do:

Ask for receipts, permits, warranties and other documentation, such as photos taken during the renovations to authenticate that the work was done properly.

Warning Sign #2: Downplaying Problems:

Some sellers opt to move once a house reaches a certain age and requires major investment in maintenance and replacements.

Phrases like, “It’s always been that way,” “That’s not a big deal,” or “Show me a house that doesn’t have a problem.” ” It was that way when we bought it”

While these statements might be true, they can be indicators of large problems.

What To Do:

Look for signs of irregular maintenance, such as dusty air vents, old filters in the AC system, clogged gutters, and dying grass, just to name a few. Politely but firmly ask for more details, receipts, and documentation about anything the homeowner waves away.

Warning Sign #3: Camouflaging Decor

Some buyers will try to disguise things they can’t fix with whatever’s at hand. Large area rugs hide defects in flooring. Artwork hangs over wall cracks and holes, and strategically placed landscaping hides exterior foundation cracks. Acid washing a pool will delay determining the age and condition of the finish. Candles and air-fresheners can mask odors of nicotine, mold, pets, and other musty smells that a homebuyer might not detect until they move into the home. Having the music playing inside or outside the home can mask road or airport noise.

These items may be discovered at walk-through but by that time you have a loan in place and have lost weeks and waived your contingencies. It will then be a fight to secure credits at closing or close in escrow.

What To Do:

Ask to turn off the music or remove the scents and return at a later date during the inspection period.
Request that items be cleared from walls and garage to accommodate the inspector.
Don’t be rushed though the final walk-through. Is there anything that has deteriorated since the inspection? Anything that was hidden or unobservable?

Fix It, or Forget It?

It if the inspection uncovers things the seller didn’t originally disclose or explain in detail, you legally have the right to cancel the contract during the Contractual Inspection Period…..never waive this contingency. You and your agent also can negotiate for the seller to do the repairs or reduce the price so you can handle them yourself.

Filed under: Blog, Boca Raton real estate, contracts, Exclusive Buyer Agency, Exclusive Buyer Agent, First Time Homebuyers, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, home Inspections, Home Maintenance, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Real Estate, Real Estate Investment, real estate news, South Florida Real Estate, Uncategorized, What Buyers Should Check When Buying an Older Home by Kim Bregman
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Pros and Cons of Self-Insuring For Wind Coverage

On average, the cost of homeowners insurance in Florida has gone up by 32.5% since 2016. This is more than three times higher than the average rate change than the rest of the country experienced during this time (10.9%).

More and more of my clients are analyzing the pros and cons of self-insuring instead of carrying a wind insurance policy. Self-insurance entails setting aside money for a potential loss in lieu of purchasing a third-party insurance policy. Depending on the losses your home faces, this could either save or cost more money than conventional insurance coverage.

The logic behind self-insurance is that providers calculate premiums based on forecasted risk. These figures are designed to profit the insurance company by bringing in more money than they are likely to pay out. Under this reasoning, a homeowner should theoretically be able to set aside funds in case an incident occurs, thereby protecting themselves without an insurance company taking a cut. Even with wind coverage a homeowner has a minimum deductible of 2% that they will have to pay out-of-pocket before insurance covers any damages.

All forms of insurance are essentially risk transfer strategies. When you purchase an insurance policy, you are paying a third-party to shoulder some of the risk. If you self-insure, however, you are choosing to retain the risk yourself.

Pros:

Interest: The funds you earmark for self-insurance can accumulate interest until you need them, growing substantially if you don’t have infrequent losses.

More Control: With self-insurance, you’re not bound to insurance policy fine print that contains specific exclusions and stipulations. You can spend the designated funds to cover virtually any wind incident.

Cons:

Potential for Significant Loss: Some types of claims can be extraordinarily expensive. That’s a very risky proposition for most people.

Self-insuring is normally only an option if there is no bank mortgage on your home. When you have a mortgage held by a financial institution, they want to make sure their investment is protected. The mortgage holder will insist on seeing proof of insurance coverage, so dropping your coverage is not typically an option.

How high could repair costs go?

Even for the people with no mortgage, self-insuring is a risky strategy and requires you to have liquid assets set aside for repairs. It’s hard to plan for the financial impact of hurricane damage. In South Florida, we can go several seasons without getting a wind event; but when a major storm hits, like Andrew (1992), Wilma (2005) or Irma (2017), it’s impossible to predict in advance how much damage will be left in the storm’s wake.

You may have heard how construction costs are already sky-high due to material shortages. Just imagine how high those costs will climb if a major storm hits our area. Replacing a tile roof in South Florida is one of the most expensive repairs a homeowner can face. That cost could easily double after a storm. Without insurance, will you have enough cash or liquid resources on hand to pay for that, let alone cover months of temporary housing in this ultra-competitive rental market while you make repairs?

Other Options:

Talk to your homeowner’s insurance agent to explore other options like raising your hurricane deductible (typically 2% in Florida to 5%). Also, consider wind mitigation measures like impact glass windows and doors and installing a whole home generator, which can help protect your home and reduce premiums. If your home is located east on or near the water, hefty insurance costs may simply be a fact of life. The only way to reduce costs may be to relocate to a less hurricane-prone area ( which is not South Florida).

And one final thought – don’t forget the importance of flood insurance. Without flood insurance, you are not protected from rising water. In past years, 25% of actual flood claims have been on properties classified as low flood risk. A small investment in insurance can protect you from major expenses.

Pocketing extra money instead of paying a premium to an insurer sounds like a great idea in theory, but it doesn’t always work out in the long run. The cost of your monthly premiums over the years could end up being less than what you’ll pay for rebuilding your home on your own.

Consulting a qualified insurance professional can help you decide whether self-insurance is a viable option in your situation.

Filed under: Blog, Boca Raton real estate, Exclusive Buyer Agency, Exclusive Buyer Agent, First Time Homebuyers, Flood Insurance, Florida Real Estate, Home Buyer Advice, Home Buyers, home safety, Homebuyer Advice, Homeowners Insurance, Hurricane Preparedness, Insurance Claims, Real Estate, Real Estate Investment, real estate news, South Florida Real Estate by Kim Bregman
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