How Overpricing Your Destin Home Affects Your Bottom Line

February 19, 2020 by Leave a Comment

 

Even though there’s a big buyer demand for homes in today’s low inventory markets in Destin, 30A and Niceville, it doesn’t mean you should price your home as high as the sky when you’re ready to sell. Here’s why making sure you price it right is key to driving the best price for the sale.

If you’ve ever watched the show “The Price Is Right,” you know the only way to win the game is to be the one to correctly guess the price of the item up for bid without going over. That means your guess must be just slightly under the retail price.

When it comes to pricing your Destin area home, setting it at or slightly below market value will increase the visibility of your listing and drive more buyers your way. This strategy actually increases the number of buyers who will see your home in their search process. Why? When potential buyers look at your listing and see a great price for a fantastic home, they’re probably going to want to take a closer look. This means more buyers are going to be excited about your house and more apt to make an offer.

If you look at the chart above you see how the market dwindles for highly overpriced homes.  If a house is overprice by 15% of market value, the buyers looking at it dwindle to 10%. If a house is priced just under market value, then there is a 75% – 90% buyer exposure.

When this happens, you’re more likely to set up a scenario with multiple offers, potential bidding wars, and the ability to drive a higher final sale price. At the end of the day, even when inventory is tight in the Destin, 30A and Niceville real estate markets, pricing it right – or pricing it to sell immediately – makes a big difference.

Here’s the other thing: homeowners who make the mistake of overpricing their homes will eventually have to lower the prices anyway after they sit on the market for an extended period of time. This leaves buyers wondering if the price drops were caused by something wrong with these homes when in reality, nothing was wrong, the initial prices were just too high.

Bottom Line

If you’re thinking about selling your home this year, let’s get together so you have a professional on your side to help you properly price your home and maximize demand from the start.

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

 

Filed Under: Etc., For Sellers

What Is Your Real Estate Agent Doing Behind the Scenes? Destin, Florida

February 17, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Filed Under: Things to Know

Top Home Decor Trends for 2020 – and they are simple

February 5, 2020 by Leave a Comment

It’s officially February 2020. And with the new year comes a host of new design trends that will define the look and feel of interiors in 2020 (and beyond).

But what, exactly, are those design trends?

A recent article from Forbes.com spoke to design experts to get their insights on the interior design trends they predict will be big in the upcoming year. Some of the biggest interior design trends set to hit in the new year include:

  1. Forgoing trends for unique, one-of-a-kind design. Interestingly, one of the biggest design trends of 2020? Bucking trends all together. Expect homeowners to forgo trends in favor of more unique design elements to create more custom, one-of-a-kind interiors.
  2. Patterns. While solid color palettes will always have a place in interior design, expect a variety of patterns to work their way into interior designs—with mixing patterns being all the rage.
  3. Contrasting ceilings. Taking a nod from art-deco design, expect bold, contrasting ceilings to take center stage in 2020.

So, what does this mean for you? If you’re thinking about selling your Destin, 30A or Niceville home, it’s important to stay on top of design trends; that way, you know what buyers want—and can stage your home accordingly.  Want to learn more? Download my FREE Booklet on how to prepare your home for sale and for top dollar.

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

Filed Under: Things to Know

Predictions for 2020 and 2021 Real Estate Markets – Freddie Mac

February 3, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Man’s hand signing the document

Since we are still in the early stages of the Emerald Coast of Florida real estate market in 2020, what predictions do we have from Freddie Mac for the coming year?  How will interest rates track, and will home sales still grow along with prices for the Destin, Niceville, 30A and overall markets?

In a recent housing article outlining their market forecast, Freddie Mac projected a positive view for the real estate market in 2020, and into 2021. “With low interest rates, modest inflation and a solid labor market, the U.S. housing market continues to show strength. Our forecast is for the U.S. housing market to maintain momentum over the next two years,” they state in the publication.

Some of their housing market projections were:

  • Interest rates for 30-year fixed-rate mortgages will drop slightly, from 4 percent in 2019 to 3.8 percent in 2020
  • Home sales will hit 6 million in 2019—but continue to rise, hitting a projected 6.1 million in 2020 and 6.2 million in 2021
  • Home price growth will slow, from 3.2 percent in 2019 to 2.9 percent in 2020 and 2.1 percent in 2021

The Takeaway:

What does this mean for you?  If you are in the Destin, Niceville and 30A real estate markets, it looks like a strong two years are coming up.   Call me for a more detailed analysis of  your particular real estate situation and your property’s “micro-market” and let’s discuss your goals and how we can accomplish them.

Getting ready to sell? Get my FREE GUIDE to preparing your home for the market.

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

Filed Under: Things to Know

When Is the Best Time to Sell Your Destin Florida Home?

January 30, 2020 by Leave a Comment

When it comes to selling your Destin, Niceville or 30A  area home, you want to make sure you list and sell at the right time. But the “right time” can vary from person to person. What might be the perfect time for your neighbor or friend to sell might be too early—or too late—for you.

So how, exactly, do you know the best time to sell for you? In a recent video, the team at Realtor.com explained five key factors to consider when determining the best time to sell, including:

  • Getting ahead of the competition. While many home sellers think spring is the best time to sell, listing your home from December through March can help you get ahead of the competition—and help your home stand out to buyers.
  • Your local market on the Emerald Coast. Obviously, there are national trends in the real estate market that you want to pay attention to—but not all areas follow those national trends. The military PCS market makes a difference for those relocating to one of our area bases, such as Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field, and Duke Field.  The resort rental market in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach and Fort Walton Beach is very strong in the Spring, but it’s harder for buyers to see properties if they are on the rental market and occupied. Before you decide to list your home, condo or lot, make sure you dig deep and reach out for advice on the right time to sell for you.
  • Mortgage rate trends. When mortgage rates drop, more buyers hit the market. So keeping an eye on interest rates can help you anticipate when more people might be looking to buy, and you can use that information to determine the best time to sell.
  • The condition of your home. Making minor repairs before you list your home can make a huge difference on how fast (and how profitably) you sell. So before you list your home, make sure to take stock of any potential issues and make any necessary repairs.
  • Personal preparedness. The only person who can determine the best time to sell your home is YOU—so before you put your home on the market, make sure you’re ready and it’s an ideal time in your life for you to make a move.

The Takeaway:

When it comes to selling your home, there’s no right or wrong answers or “perfect” time to sell. But these factors can help you determine the best time to sell for you, your family, your home, and your life.

 

Download my FREE GUIDE on preparing your home to sell.

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

 

Filed Under: Things to Know

Remodeling Your Home for Your Cats – Would You?

January 27, 2020 by Leave a Comment

How far would you go to remodel your Niceville or Destin Florida home for your cats?

Many house cats would love to run outside with unrestricted freedom,  but it is usually a dangerous place for a cat.  For example, in my Southwind, Bluewater Bay neighborhood, there are known be coyotes, and I have seen bobcats three times!  So, unfortunately, kitties are often confined within the walls your home, looking at the birds through the windows.

You could, however, consider remodeling your home with a luxurious and extensive indoor/outdoor cat enclosure like ones that Hellas Pet Enclosures build!

Take a look at one they built for one of their customers…

It started 2 years ago with the section attached to the house by the upper window, giving the owners’ cats a little freedom. But then they added the “stairs” going down to…

…a bridge that crosses over their yard. You see where this is headed?!

The 42’ bridge takes a right turn in the trees and leads to the grand catio.

There’s a handy door for humans to get into the 12’x16’ enclosure. (Way better than having to crawl out of the second floor window and through the bridge! LOL) Let’s take a look inside…

It’s prime time for climb time for a cat who wants to!

But there’s also plenty of cool perches to just chill out and watch the birds, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up the warm sun.

But just in case kitty wants a little break from the sun, or just a little privacy, there’s a little hideaway they can curl up in.

This thoughtful home remodel is something your cats would probably love. I know my three kitties, two ocicats and a bengal, would “purr-fur” it!

 

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

Filed Under: Etc.

January Home Buying Season in Destin Florida

January 21, 2020 by

The temperatures may be dropping outside— (especially at 30 degrees today in Destin Florida!) – but for house hunters, things are just about to start heating up.

A recent analysis from realtor.com found that while most people believe spring to be the hottest season for home buyers, house hunters are starting their search earlier in the year—and January has become one of the most active times of the year for potential buyers on the market for a new home.

20 out of the 100 largest metros in the US saw their highest number of listing views online in January 2019 (based on average monthly views per listing on realtor.com 2015 to 2019)—compared to just three in 2018. And according to the realtor.com team, this trend is poised to continue in January 2020.

“As shoppers modify their strategies for navigating a housing market that has become more competitive due to rising prices and low inventory, the search for a home is beginning earlier and earlier,” said realtor.com® Senior Economist George Ratiu in the analysis’ press release. “With housing inventory across the U.S. expected to reach record lows in 2020, we expect to see this trend continue into the new year.”

The Takeaway:

So, what does this mean for you? If you’re thinking about buying a home in 2020, don’t wait until spring to start your search—because as it turns out, January is the perfect season for house hunting! And, if you’re thinking about selling, it’s not a bad idea to get your house on the market before the actual Spring market.

 

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

Filed Under: Things to Know

Do You Resolve to Spiff Up Your Destin Home in 2020?

January 16, 2020 by

Whether you enjoy making New Year’s resolutions or scoff at the idea, there’s something inherently motivating about seeing a fresh page on the calendar. If you don’t want to join the masses who hit the gym or vow to go on a digital diet, you may want to resolve to set some goals on behalf of your home.

Chances are, you spend a lot of time in your Destin Florida area home, so why not make sure it’s as energy-efficient, safe, and comfortable as possible? If you’re a homeowner, making some New Year’s resolutions—and then following through—may pay dividends all year long.

Take a look at four improvements that are easy to implement and won’t break the bank. In fact, some may even put money back in your pocket.

1. Conserve energy

If you’re not quite ready to install solar panels on your roof in Destin or Niceville, you can still save energy (and money) by conducting your own energy audit.

Are lights often left on in rooms nobody is in? Is electricity powering things that aren’t even in use? Commit to turning off lights in rooms you’re not using and unplugging gadgets that aren’t being used or charged. According to Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC.org), Americans waste approximately $19 billion on inactive electronics or devices every year. From your coffee maker to your laptop computer, you may be squandering energy and dollars. Give a quick look around and see where you can conserve and save.

Moving on to larger items, be sure to properly maintain your heating and cooling systems so they’re operating optimally. If you have an older model unit, you may want to consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient system to save money and enjoy a more comfortable environment.

Also, look for leaks around your windows and doors. If you find any, caulk the drafty areas or consider installing new energy-efficient windows and doors, which will help you keep heat or air-conditioning in your home where it belongs.

Installing low-flow showerheads also allows you to cut water costs at the same time you’re conserving this precious resource.

2. Do a safety check

Knowing your Emerald Coast of Florida home is safe and secure offers priceless peace of mind. If you didn’t change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in the fall, now is the time to do it. It’s also worth noting that smoke alarms have a lifespan of seven to 10 years, while carbon monoxide detectors last between five and seven years. If you’ve had yours for longer than these timeframes, it’s wise to replace them as soon as possible.

A seldom discussed, but just as real hazard, is your dryer’s lint trap. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, highly-combustible lint, which builds up in your dryer’s trap, accounts for more than 15,000 building fires per year. So make sure those are cleaned out. I can tell you – this has happened to me!

But, just in case of an emergency, you’ll want to have an escape plan with two exit routes in place. If you haven’t worked those out, make it a priority in the new year.

Do an outdoor inspection and make sure all your stairs and railings are secure. Installing motion-sensing flood lights above your garage or in your backyard can make entering and exiting your home a bit safer for you, while at the same time deterring would-be burglars.

3. Deep clean and declutter

It’s not all about safety and savings, though! Making a resolution to love where you live can make your year more enjoyable, and a good way to do that is to give it a serious cleaning.

You can check this one off your list by simply hiring a house cleaner to do it for you. (I’m a terrible house cleaner, so I hire someone to clean my Bluewater Bay home!) If you want to save the money, however, just pick a room and get going. Work in manageable increments so you don’t feel overwhelmed. If you do, take a break but don’t give up. From washing bedding and windows to deep-cleaning your appliances and even your gutters, you’ll love the results that go hand-in-hand with freshly-scrubbed spaces.

To keep your place spic and span over the course of the entire year, set some small goals that ultimately make a big difference. For example, vow to put away all your clothing at the end of each day, deal with your junk mail the day it arrives, keep an ongoing donation box handy so you’re not holding on to items you no longer need or want.

4. Plan for the coming years

The new year is a great time to take stock of what needs to be fixed or improved in the future for your Destin, Niceville, or Santa Rosa Beach house.

Could you benefit from a landscaping upgrade, new roofing, decking, or patio? How about painting or replacing furniture? If you’re outgrowing your current home, are you considering an addition?

If so, you may not be able to knock all of them off the list in the next year, but just resolving to do them and forming a plan can be worthwhile goal and achievement.

Once you have a list of what you want and need to get done, you can begin budgeting for these. From nice-to-have to the absolute necessities, prioritize your upcoming expenses so you can either start saving or looking into a home equity loan or line of credit.

Are you thinking about moving? If so, you’ll want to tackle those projects a buyer will notice, or a home inspector will surely catch sooner or later, so your home shines and fetches top dollar.

You don’t have to entirely renovate or remodel to enjoy home improvements. Start with these four resolutions, and by the end of the year, your home will be a better place to live.

By the way, if you are thinking of remodeling, let me know if I may suggest upgrades that may get you more return on invest for your Emerald Coast of Florida property!

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

Filed Under: Things to Know

Emerald Grande 4 Bedroom Condo, Destin Harbor, Destin FL 32541

September 5, 2019 by

Emerald Grande condo unit W226 is for sale in this iconic Destin Florida condominium project.  It lives like a home with four large bedrooms, four full bathrooms and eye-drawing balcony views of magnificent Destin waterways. Emerald Grande?  See it from the distance as you are driving or flying into town with its architectural uniqueness. It’s the masterpiece of Destin Florida and the landmark hub of the city, situated on Destin Harbor with views of  Crab Island boaters, East Pass, the Gulf of Mexico, the Choctawhatchee Bay and the Destin Bridge.  This splendid four bedroom condo has the high ceilings, crown molding, upscale  furnishings and spacious bedrooms. Upgrades include designed furnishings, custom paint, new balcony furniture and custom window shades.  Enjoy a panoramic view from all windows and balconies that put you in the postcard of sand, emerald blue waters and Destin Florida sunshine. This spacious Emerald Grande condo could be your full-time residence, a second or third home, or your Florida get-away.  Numerous amenities are available for diverse tastes nearby and on site in HarborWalk Village. Find restaurants like the famous McGuire’s Irish Pub, Crab Island Cantina, Harry T’s,  Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Jackacudas Seafood Sushi, Coyote Ugly Saloon and more. Shopping? There are numerous specialty shops overlooking the water, galleries, charter fishing boats, private beach, concerts, fireworks and weekly events.  On the same floor of this luxury condo is the fitness center and the Destin Spa at Emerald Grande.  Choose from various pools, bars and nightclubs, or just relax and go to the sugar white beach of East Pass. The lifestyle you imagined is here.  Owning at Emerald Grande means you won’t have to leave, unless you want to.

Watch the virtual tour of 10 Harbor Boulevard Unit W226 at Emerald Grande.

Emerald Grande W226 four bedroom luxury condo is offered for sale for $925,000.00

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Seagrove Beach, Watercolor, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

    

Filed Under: Destin Florida

My Latest Review from Lovely Seller Clients – Santa Rosa Beach Florida

August 22, 2019 by

“Wendy Rulnick was a real pleasure to work with. When we would send her a text msg we would barely finish sending it when she was already answering. She took our listing and advertised our house on several venues. Places that I didn’t even know about. We ended up getting a full price cash offer without any conditions. As previous Real Estate agents ourselves and authors of the book “The Ultimate New-home buying Guide”, we have been involved in over 200 closings so when we sing praises to Wendy we know what we are talking about. If you want great responsive service from a Real Expert in the Real Estate profession, CALL WENDY YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!”

It’s Wendy… It’s Sold!

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, Rulnick Realty, Inc.
Call 850-259-0422
Email Wendy: itswendy@rulnickrealty.com

Wendy Rulnick, Broker, sells real estate in Destin, Santa Rosa Beach, 30A, Miramar Beach, Crestview, Sandestin, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, Bluewater Bay, Navarre, Florida.

Filed Under: Etc.
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