Found 20 blog entries tagged as real estate.



by Karen Williams-deCastro- Broker Associate®, C2EX, RSPS, GRI, SRS, ABR, SFR, AHWD, CELA, CREN

It's the most wonderful time of the year. But for many families with festive plans and hectic schedules, it's also the most wasteful.

According to one survey, for example, 60% of respondents admitted to throwing away more than usual during the holiday months as they filled up their trash bins with uneaten food, wrapping paper, gift bags, and commercial packaging.1

The reality is, Americans routinely toss about 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year’s than at any other time of year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.2 In fact, we throw away so much ribbon during the holidays—around 38,000 miles’ worth—that the…

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by Karen Williams-deCastro- Realtor®, C2EX, RSPS, GRI, SRS, ABR, SFR, AHWD

To avoid buyer's remorse, be sure to consider your future self when shopping for a home.

Most new homebuyers don't regret becoming homeowners. In fact, according to a survey by LendingTree, 80% of recent buyers who successfully overcame a challenging housing market say they're glad they found their current homes.1 But that doesn't mean newly-minted homeowners don't have any regrets about their buying choices. 

On the contrary, research shows that even the most-satisfied homeowners would change some aspects of their home purchase if given the opportunity. According to a recent survey by Anytime Estimate, nearly 3 out of 4 buyers who purchased a home in 2021 or 2022 still…

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 Florida Keys Real Estate Market Update

Good news for home seekers and investors in the Florida Keys!  Despite an increase in available properties and longer days on the market compared to last year, homes are still selling swiftly when priced appropriately. 

When priced right, properties are attracting eager buyers, leading to quick and successful sales. So, if you're a seller, partnering with a knowledgeable realtor who understands the local market is crucial to ensure your property is competitively priced. 

It's essential to be cautious when setting your listing price. Homes not priced correctly may experience more negotiations, with buyers being able to secure an average discount of about 92% off the original…

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by Karen Williams-deCastro- Realtor®, C2EX, RSPS, GRI, SRS, ABR, SFR, AHWD


Does your current home no longer serve your needs?

If so, you may be torn between  renovating your existing home, or relocating to a new one. This can be adifficult choice, and there’s a lot to consider—including potential costs, long-term financial implications, and quality of life.

A major remodel can be a major commitment. From hiring contractors to selecting materials to managing a budget, it can take a tremendous amount of time and energy—not to mention the ordeal of living through construction or relocating to a temporary residence.

On the other hand, moving is notoriously taxing. In fact, in one survey, 40% of respondents viewed buying a new home as ”the most…

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May numbers are in! As of June 1st: Median sold price continues to increase. Month over month May saw a decrease of average days on market and a slight uptick in the original list price to sold price ratio. Our absorption rate is now over 6mo of inventory. While we are fully back in a neutral market in the Keys, homeowners and buyers should feel good about home values holding steady. *Oh, by the way ... I can help connect you with great Realtors anywhere in North America! I'm never too busy for referrals!  Erin Kiel REALTOR® GRI, AHWD, C2EX Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Destinations

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by Karen Williams-deCastro- Realtor®, C2EX, RSPS, GRI, SRS, ABR, SFR, AHWD

When you are looking at Real Estate, you likely think to yourself: location, location, location. And not many places are more beautiful than the Florida Keys. But ever since the Federal Reserve began its series of inflation-fighting interest rate hikes last year, a new mantra has emerged for a lot of us: mortgage rates, mortgage rates, mortgage rates. 

Higher rates had the immediate impact of dampening homebuyer affordability and demand. But this year, we’re seeing further repercussions. While analysts expected listing inventory to swell as sales declined, instead, homeowners have been pushing off plans to sell because they feel beholden to their existing, lower mortgage…

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PUBLIC NOTICE 

April 6, 2023 Special Meeting 

The Board will convene at the Marathon Government Center, 

2798 Overseas Highway, Marathon FL 33050 

Public participation will be via Communications Media Technology at: 

Zoom webinar: https://mcbocc.zoom.us/j/88280298409 

To report problems with the broadcast or Zoom webinar, please call (305) 872-8831. 

The April 6, 2023 Meeting of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, FL will be a hybrid format with the County Commission meeting live at the Marathon Government Center, but the public will be able to participate via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”) using a Zoom Webinar platform. The meeting will commence at 10:00 A.M. Below are the various options available to the…

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By Karen Williams-deCastro- Realtor®, C2EX, RSPS, GRI, SRS, ABR, SFR, AHWD

Keeping a clean and orderly home is a challenge for many of us. Between busy work schedules, social obligations, and family commitments, it’s tough to keep up with daily chores—let alone larger seasonal tasks.

The effort is worthwhile, however. A sanitary environment can keep you and your family healthier by minimizing your exposure to germs and allergens.1 Plus, researchers have found that organized, uncluttered homes have quantifiable mental health benefits, too, including reduced stress, improved emotional regulation, and increased productivity.2

The reality is, we enjoy our homes more when they are in good order. It’s much easier to relax without piles of unopened…

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by Karen Williams-deCastro- Realtor®, C2EX, RSPS, GRI, SRS, ABR, SFR, AHWD

Last year, one factor drove the real estate market more than any other: rising mortgage rates.


In March 2022, the Federal Reserve began a series of interest rate hikes in an effort to pump the brakes on inflation.1 And while some market sectors have been slow to respond, the housing market has reacted accordingly.


Both demand and price appreciation have tapered, as the primary challenge for homebuyers has shifted from availability to affordability. And although this higher-mortgage rate environment has been a painful adjustment for many buyers and sellers, it should ultimately lead to a more stable and balanced real estate market.


So what can we expect in…

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