Home Sellers April 3, 2025

The #1 Thing Destin Florida Sellers Need To Know About Their Asking Price

The #1 Thing Sellers Need To Know About Their Asking Price

The #1 Thing Sellers Need To Know About Their Asking Price
A Realtors ValueHome Sellers January 22, 2025

If Your Destin Florida Home Price Is Not Compelling, It’s Not Selling

If Your Destin Florida House Price Is Not Compelling, It’s Not Selling

If Your House’s Price Is Not Compelling, It’s Not Selling

There’s one big mistake you need to avoid when you sell your house this year: setting your price too high. It might seem like overpricing gives you room to negotiate or could really boost your profit, but the reality is, it usually backfires. If Your Destin Florida House Price Is Not Compelling, It’s Not Selling

In fact, Realtor.com says almost 20% of sellers — that’s one in five — have to reduce their price to get their house sold. And you don’t want to be one of them. Here’s why starting too high can lead to trouble, and how to avoid it.

Overpricing Pushes Buyers Away

With mortgage rates and home prices where they are right now, buyers are already stretching their budgets to make a move. So, when they see a house that’s priced too high, they’re not thinking, “I can negotiate.” They’re more likely to think, “next” and skip over your house entirely. An article from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:

“Some sellers are pricing their homes higher than ever just because they can, but this may drive away serious buyers . . .”

And if they skip over your listing, you’ll miss out on the chance to get them through the door. That’s the last thing you want because fewer showings mean fewer chances to receive an offer.

The Longer Your House Sits, the More Skeptical Buyers Will Get

Here’s the other issue. An overpriced house tends to sit on the market longer. And the longer a house lingers, the more buyers start to wonder what’s wrong with it. Is there a problem with the house itself? Are you difficult to work with? Even if the only issue is the price, that extra time creates doubt. As U.S. News says:

“. . . setting an unrealistically high price with the idea that you can come down later doesn’t work in real estate . . . A home that’s overpriced in the beginning tends to stay on the market longer, even after the price is cut, because buyers think there must be something wrong with it.”

At that point, you’ll have no choice but to lower your price to drum up interest. But that price reduction comes with its own downside: buyers may see it as another red flag, that there’s an issue with the house.

The Key To Finding the Right Price for Your House

So, what’s the secret to avoiding all these headaches? It’s simple. Work with a local real estate agent who knows the market inside and out, and who’s going to be honest with you about how you should price your house.

You don’t want to partner with someone who just agrees to whatever number you throw out there. That’s not an expert who’s going to get you the best results.

You want an agent who recommends a price based on their expertise. The right agent will use real-time data from your local market to help you land on a price that makes sense — one that grabs attention, attracts buyers, and still helps you walk away with a great return. Someone who has been there and done that – and done it well. That’s the agent you want to work with.

Bottom Line

Remember, if the price isn’t compelling, it’s not selling. Instead of shooting too high and scaring off buyers, work with a local agent who knows how to price it right.

Connect with an agent to make sure your house hits the market with the right price, gets noticed, and gets sold.

Contact Keith Bailey Realtor: https://keithbailey.sites.c21.homes/contact-me

 

A Realtors Value October 23, 2024

How Long Will It Take To Sell Your House?

As you’re getting ready to sell your house, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is, “how long is this going to take?” And that makes sense—you want to know what to expect.

While every market is different, understanding what’s happening nationally can give you a good baseline. But for an even more detailed look at real estate conditions in your area, connect with a local real estate agent. They know your local market best and can explain what’s happening near you and how it compares to national trends.

Here’s a look at some of the things a great agent will walk you through during that conversation.

More Homes Are on the Market, and That’s Affecting How Long They Take To Sell

According to Realtor.com, the number of homes for sale has been going up this year. That means there are more options for buyers, which is great news for anyone looking to buy a home. But as a seller, it also means homes are staying on the market a bit longer now that buyers have more options to choose from (see graph below):

a graph of blue barsOne of the big reasons homes sold so fast in recent years is because there were so few of them for sale. And now that there are more houses on the market, it makes sense that they aren’t selling at quite the same pace. Right now, according to Realtor.com, it takes 55 days from the time a house is listed for it to be officially sold and closed on.

But keep this in mind. While homes might not be selling as quickly as they did last year at this time, they’re still selling faster than they did in more normal years in the housing market, before the pandemic.

If you look back at 2017-2019 in the graph above, you’ll see that it was typical for a house to take 60 days or more to sell. So, today’s process is still faster than the norm.

That’s because, even with more homes for sale, there are still more buyers than homes for sale. So, homes that show well and are priced right are selling fast. As NerdWallet explains:

“Overall, though, demand still outpaces supply. This is hardly a mellow market: Good homes sell quickly . . .”

Your Agent Can Help Your Home Stand Out

If you’re looking for ways to make your move happen as quickly as possible, partnering with a great local agent is the key. Your real estate agent will help you with everything from setting the right price to staging your home so it looks its best. They’ll even create a marketing plan that grabs buyers’ attention and will give you key insights about what’s happening in your specific area, so you can plan accordingly and make the process go as smoothly as possible.

So, while homes might be on the market a little longer than before, they’re still selling faster than the norm. If you have the right agent and the right strategy in place, your house may even sell faster than you’d expect.

Bottom Line

If you’re planning to sell your house, knowing how long it might take is a big part of planning your next steps. By working with a local expert, you’ll be able to price, market, and sell your home with confidence.

Contact Keith Bailey Realtor 

850-830-6771

Keith@KeithBaileyRealtor.com

Walton Co Fl Property Taxes December 11, 2023

Navigating Property Taxes in Walton County, Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Nestled along the stunning Emerald Coast, Walton County in Florida is renowned for its pristine beaches, charming communities, and a lifestyle that beckons residents and tourists alike. As property values continue to rise in this picturesque region, understanding the nuances of Walton County’s property taxes becomes crucial for homeowners and potential investors. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essentials of Walton County’s property taxes, shedding light on how they work and offering insights to help you navigate this aspect of real estate ownership.

Understanding the Basics:

  1. Ad Valorem Tax System: Walton County, like many other counties in Florida, employs an ad valorem tax system for property taxation. This means that property taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of the property.
  2. Assessment Process: The Property Appraiser’s Office in Walton County is responsible for determining the assessed value of properties. They consider various factors such as market conditions, property improvements, and recent sales data.
  3. Millage Rates: Property taxes are expressed in terms of millage rates, where one mill is equal to one-tenth of a cent. Walton County’s millage rates are set by local taxing authorities and play a significant role in determining the final property tax amount.

Factors Influencing Property Taxes:

  1. Property Value Trends: The overall trend in property values in Walton County can directly impact your property taxes. Understanding the market dynamics and staying informed about property appreciation is essential.
  2. Homestead Exemption: Florida offers a Homestead Exemption, providing a reduction in the assessed value of a property for primary residents. Walton County residents may qualify for this exemption, leading to a lower property tax bill.
  3. Additional Exemptions: Beyond the Homestead Exemption, there are additional exemptions available in Walton County, such as exemptions for veterans, seniors, and disabled individuals. Exploring these options can provide further relief on property taxes.
  4. Millage Rate Variations: Different areas within Walton County may have varying millage rates based on local needs and services. Being aware of these variations can help you anticipate and plan for property tax expenses.

Payment and Deadlines:

  1. Tax Bills and Notices: Property tax bills are typically mailed out by the Property Appraiser’s Office in November. It’s crucial to carefully review these bills, ensuring accuracy in assessed values and applying any applicable exemptions.
  2. Payment Options: Walton County provides various payment options, including online payments, mail-in options, and in-person payments at designated locations. Familiarizing yourself with these options can streamline the payment process.

Conclusion:

Owning property in Walton County, Florida, comes with the responsibility of managing property taxes. By understanding the assessment process, available exemptions, and payment procedures, homeowners can navigate this aspect of real estate ownership more effectively. Staying informed about local tax policies and seeking professional advice when needed will contribute to a smoother experience in this beautiful corner of the Sunshine State.

#keithbaileyrealtor #waltoncountyflpropertytaxes

A Realtors Value December 11, 2023

Unraveling the Mysteries: Why Zillow Home Valuations Aren’t Always Accurate

In the digital age, where information is readily available at our fingertips, platforms like Zillow have become go-to resources for homeowners, prospective buyers, and real estate enthusiasts. Zillow’s Home Value Zestimate, in particular, is a feature that attempts to provide an estimate of a property’s worth based on various factors. However, as many have experienced, these valuations are not always accurate and can sometimes be significantly off the mark. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons behind the discrepancies and why relying solely on Zillow’s home valuations might not be the best approach.

  1. Lack of Real-Time Data:

One key factor contributing to inaccuracies in Zillow’s home valuations is the lack of real-time data. The real estate market is dynamic, influenced by ever-changing economic conditions, local developments, and other factors. Zillow’s algorithms might not always capture these changes promptly, leading to outdated valuations that don’t reflect the current market reality.

  1. Limited Property-Specific Information:

Zillow relies on a range of data points to estimate home values, including recent sales in the area, tax assessments, and other public records. However, the platform may lack specific details about individual properties, such as recent renovations or unique features. Without access to this nuanced information, Zillow’s algorithm may struggle to provide accurate valuations for homes with distinctive characteristics.

  1. Neighborhood Averages and Generalizations:

Zillow’s algorithms often rely on averages and generalizations for a given neighborhood, which can lead to inaccuracies for homes that deviate significantly from the local norm. Unique properties or those with specific features may not fit neatly into the algorithm’s calculations, resulting in valuations that don’t align with the property’s true value.

  1. Market Volatility and Economic Factors:

Real estate markets can be subject to fluctuations influenced by economic conditions, interest rates, and other external factors. Zillow’s algorithms may not always account for these macroeconomic influences, leading to valuations that are not aligned with the broader market trends.

  1. Limited Comparative Analysis:

While Zillow’s algorithm considers recent sales in the area, it may not always conduct a thorough comparative analysis of similar properties. Differences in the size, condition, or specific amenities of homes can significantly impact their market value, and Zillow’s valuation may fall short in providing an accurate reflection of these nuances.

While Zillow’s Home Value Zestimate can be a helpful starting point for estimating property values, it’s crucial for homeowners and prospective buyers to approach these valuations with a degree of caution. Real estate is a complex and nuanced field, and automated algorithms may not capture all the intricacies that influence a property’s value. Consulting with local real estate professionals, conducting thorough research, and considering a variety of factors beyond Zillow’s estimates will contribute to a more accurate understanding of a property’s true market value.

Florida Homeowners Insurance December 9, 2023

Florida Homeowners Insurance Wind Mitigation and 4 Point Inspections

In Florida, wind mitigation inspections and four-point inspections are often required by insurance companies to assess the risk associated with insuring a home. However, there isn’t a specific age requirement for a home to undergo these inspections. Instead, the need for these inspections is often driven by the insurance company’s policies and the age and condition of the home.

Wind mitigation inspections focus on the home’s ability to withstand wind damage, and they may be required for homes of various ages, especially in areas prone to hurricanes and strong winds.

A four-point inspection typically examines four key areas: the roof, electrical system, plumbing system, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Insurance companies may request this inspection for older homes to assess the condition of these critical components.

To determine whether your home needs a wind mitigation or four-point inspection, it’s best to check with your insurance provider. They can provide specific information on their requirements and any applicable regulations in your area. Keep in mind that insurance requirements can vary, so it’s essential to communicate directly with your insurance company for accurate and up-to-date information.

#keithbaileyrealtor #floridahomeownersinsurance #Floridawindmitigation #florida4pointinspection

Market Update December 8, 2023

Experts Project Home Prices Will Rise over the Next 5 Years

Even with so much data showing home prices are actually rising in most of the country, there are still a lot of people who worry there will be another price crash in the immediate future. In fact, a recent survey from Fannie Mae shows that 23% of consumers think prices will fall over the next 12 months. That’s nearly one in four people who are dealing with that fear – maybe you’re one of them. Experts Project Home Prices Will Rise over the Next 5 Years.

To help ease that concern, here’s what the experts say will happen with home prices not just next year, but over the next five years.

Experts Project Ongoing Appreciation

While seeing a small handful of expert opinions may not be enough to change your mind, hopefully, a larger group of experts will reassure you. Here’s that larger group.

The Home Price Expectation Survey (HPES) from Pulsenomics is a great resource to show what experts forecast for home prices over a five-year period. It includes projections from over 100 economists, investment strategists, and housing market analysts. And the results from the latest quarterly release show home prices are expected to go up every year through 2027 (see graph below):

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 And while the projected increase in 2024 isn’t as large as 2023, remember home price appreciation is cumulative. In other words, if these experts are correct after your home’s value rises by 3.32% this year, it should go up by another 2.17% next year.

If you’re worried home prices are going to fall, here’s the big takeaway. Even though prices vary by local area, experts project they’ll continue to rise across the country for years to come at a pace that’s more normal for the market.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re not convinced yet, maybe these numbers will get your attention. They show how a typical home’s value could change over the next few years using the expert projections from the HPES. Check out the graph below:

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In this example, let’s say you bought a $400,000 home at the beginning of this year. If you factor in the forecast from the HPES, you could potentially accumulate more than $71,000 in household wealth over the next five years.