Selling Your Home During the Holidays

‘Tis the season, time to celebrate with family and friend gatherings, parties, great food. However, amidst the celebrations, selling your home might also be a priority this holiday season. Navigating the real estate market during these festive times can be challenging, but with the expertise of Navarre Real Estate Source, it is not only manageable but also possible! Here are some great tips to guide you through the holiday home-selling market:

Tasteful Festive Decor: While it’s tempting to go all out with holiday decorations, less is more when your home is on the market. Opt for tasteful and neutral decorations that enhance, rather than overwhelm, your space. A single tree with a few wrapped items can create a festive but homey feel during the holdiays.

Keep your home warm and well-lit, especially as the sun sets earlier in the day. Soft, ambient music and the gentle glow of a fireplace add to the inviting atmosphere. Store blankets and pillows neatly arranged, perhaps with a rustic ladder or basket, inviting prospective buyers to envision their own cozy holiday moments.

When choosing your seasonal candles, such as cinnamon or pine, one scent is plenty; you don’t want to go overboard and overwhelm potential buyers.

Flexible Showing Appointments: Understand that the holiday season can be a busy time for potential buyers, between family gatherings and other commitments. Offer flexible showing times to accommodate their schedules. Last-minute showings are a possibility, so always be prepared for the possibility of last-minute appointments and showcase your home in its best light, both inside and out. (However, requesting a 24-hour notice is also common.)

Showcase Winter-Ready Features: Leverage Navarre Real Estate Source’s expertise to highlight winter-ready features. Whether it’s an energy-efficient heating system, a cozy fireplace, or excellent insulation, emphasize elements that make your home especially appealing during the winter months.

Expert Guidance: With Navarre Real Estate Source, your local real estate expert, who comprehends the nuances of the holiday real estate market in your area. Benefit from insights into current market trends, assistance in setting a competitive price, and a tailored approach to selling your home in the unique conditions of the season.

As the holiday season can bring a slowdown to some real estate markets, it also attracts serious buyers with specific motivations. By strategically approaching the sale with the guidance of Navarre Real Estate Source, you not only navigate the challenges but also increase the likelihood of a successful sale during this festive time.

Get started today and contact us.

Recent Reviews for Navarre Real Estate Source

As agents at Navarre Real Estate Source, we take great pride in delivering exceptional customer service and meaningful interactions. Recognizing that buying or selling a property can often be a demanding endeavor, our aim is to streamline the process for you. Below, we’ve gathered a selection of testimonials from our recent satisfied clients.

[Tara] She is beyond amazing as a real state agent and helped my husband and I find our dream home here in Florida while we were stationed in the UK. She was thorough for every single house we wanted to view and worked long hours for weeks because we were on a time crunch. We scheduled my flight for the day of closing and she even picked me up from the airport. Being military, we might have to move again but even then, we will 1000% be using Navarre Real Estate Source (specifically Tara) to manage our property while we’re gone. 10/10 couldn’t recommend enough. – I.M.D

If you are looking into real estate agents in the Navarre area, then you probably are already familiar with “Florida’s best kept secret.”

If you are wanting to relocate and be part of that secret then it’s time you learned the Second best kept secret – Shannon Mills at Navarre Real Estate Source and her partnership (Dream team!) with Stacy Dempsey at New American Funding.

Shannon was there from the very first call all the way to the handing off the keys. Each step of the way Shannon ensured an exceptional experience while relentlessly pursuing value for her clients. We were truly fortunate to be one of them. Her tenacity, expertise, and attention to detail allowed us to land in the place and home of our dreams. She really took the stress out of the situation for our family and would certify that she can do the same for yours.

If you are considering a move, on the fence, or even remotely curious – I highly recommend starting here. You are likely to have go no further or anywhere else to have a smooth and pleasant home-buying experience. Many thanks to you Shannon! – Joe I.

Navarre Real Estate Source provided a great deal of detail in their recommendations for me pertaining to renovations of my property before starting the process of selling my home. Very thankful I chose this company to represent me during my sale and will be using them for future transactions. They went above and beyond by staging the property with furniture for the pictures prior to listing, which assisted greatly in expediting the sale. They provided a lot of stress relief during this process, because of their consistent and prompt communication. Shannon and Tara are excellent at their craft and exceeded my expectations! – Israel T.

How to Increase the Value of Your Home

Are you considering selling your home? Here are 5 valuable tips to enhance your home’s value and ensure a successful sale with your Navarre Real Estate Source agent:

Elevate Curb Appeal: First impressions have a heavy influence over potential buyers. Elevate your home’s exterior by maintaining the lawn (don’t forget to pull weeds and edging walkways), and consider planting vibrant flowers that harmonize with your home’s color scheme.

Curb appeal is more than just the lawn, a fresh coat of paint on the front door can create an inviting focal point. Don’t overlook essential repairs such as fixing cracked sidewalks or mending broken fences. An aesthetically pleasing exterior sets a positive tone for potential buyers and presents a well maintained and cared for home.

Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades: Kitchens and bathrooms often steal the spotlight for homebuyers. A modernized kitchen and bathroom can significantly augment your home’s value. Consider updating outdated light fixtures, cabinets, and countertops.

Repainting cabinets and kitchen walls can be a cost-effective alternative to breathe new life into your kitchen. Seek inspiration from Sherwin Williams’ 2023 color collections for a beautiful on-trend look.

Declutter and Depersonalize: Buyers seek to envision themselves in their potential new home. Make it easier for them by removing personal items and excess clutter. Create an illusion of spaciousness by clearing out additional furniture, personal photos, and knick-knacks. This allows your home’s natural charm and potential to shine.

Energy Efficiency: Invest in energy-efficient upgrades that boost your home’s appeal and lower monthly utility costs. Consider adding insulation and sealing gaps and cracks with new weather stripping around doors or caulking around windows.

Outdated air conditioning and kitchen appliances can be upgraded to not only enhance your home’s appeal but also reduce utility expenses. However, consult your Navarre Real Estate Source agent to ensure these improvements align with market trends and offer a return on your investment.

Professional Home Inspection: Consider scheduling a pre-listing home inspection with one of our trusted and recommended home inspectors. This is a proactive step that identifies potential issues that could surface during a buyer’s inspection, allowing the opportunity to address them upfront. Additionally, it adds confidence in potential buyers by demonstrating your commitment to maintaining the home’s condition.

Our local expertise extends to understanding which improvements hold the most value for your specific property and the prevailing market conditions in Navarre, Gulf Breeze, Pensacola, and surrounding areas.

Remember, the objective is to present your home in its most appealing light to maximize its value. By focusing on these key areas, you can attract potential buyers and potentially command a higher selling price. Ready to get started? Contact us today to initiate a conversation about selling your home with Navarre Real Estate Source.

Tips to Buying a Home

Purchasing a new home in the picturesque Navarre, Florida, is a thrilling step, yet it demands a well planned approach. Here are 10 great tips to help you along your path, along with insights into various loan types that can transform your homeownership dreams into reality.

• Assess Your Budget: Begin by taking an honest look at your financial situation. Calculate your monthly income, expenses, and existing debts to determine a comfortable price range for your new home. This first and foundational step sets the stage for the entire process.
• Research Loan Types: Familiarize yourself with the array of loan types available. For example, Fixed-Rate Mortgages offer consistent monthly payments, while Adjustable-Rate Mortgages come with fluctuating interest rates.

  Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans require low down payments, making them suitable for first-time buyers. While veterans can explore VA Loans for exclusive benefits, including no down payment and lower interest rates.

• Get Pre-approved: Seek a mortgage pre-approval early in the process. This not only grants you a clear understanding of the loan amount you qualify for but also helps your negotiating power with sellers. Pre-approval expedites the buying journey and showcases your seriousness to potential sellers.
• Credit Check: Delve into your credit score’s details. A healthy credit score is one of the most important things for favorable loan terms. Address any errors on your credit report and take steps to improve your score if needed, ensuring you qualify for better interest rates and loan options.

  During your home buying process, it is important to not make any large purchases or open any additional lines of credit, doing so can result in being denied a home loan.

• Down Payment: Evaluate your down payment options. Although the traditional 20% down payment is customary, several loan programs allow for a lower percentage. FHA Loans, for instance, necessitate as little as 3.5% down. Explore down payment assistance programs in Navarre that might provide financial aid.
• Loan Terms: Decide on the loan term that aligns with your financial strategy and goals. A shorter loan term, such as 15 years, generally comes with higher monthly payments but lower interest rates. Longer terms, like 30 years, offer lower monthly payments but accumulate more interest over time.

  Did you know making an additional loan payment per a year can shorten your term by 4-5 years?

• Compare Lenders: Devote time to researching multiple lenders. Obtain loan quotes from various sources, meticulously comparing factors such as interest rates, closing costs, and customer feedback. This diligent research can save you substantial money over the life of your loan.
• Interest Rates: Stay informed about fluctuating interest rates. Even a slight change in interest rates can significantly impact your monthly payments and the overall affordability of your new home. By working closely and planning with your lender, you can keep an eye on market trends and lock in a rate if they are favorable.
• Understand Closing Costs: Beyond the home’s price tag, remember that closing costs are a substantial component of your home purchase. These can encompass appraisal fees, title insurance, origination fees, and more, typically ranging from 2% to 5% of the home’s value. Be financially prepared for these additional expenses.
• Work with Navarre Real Estate Source: Our seasoned real estate agents can offer invaluable guidance, assisting you in finding the perfect property and going toe-to-toe in negotiations. A knowledgeable loan officer will guide you through the mortgage application process and help secure the best loan for your circumstances.

  Do you need a recommendation for home inspections, lenders, construction or even lawncare? Our team of real estate agents have great recommendations for you.

Embarking on the home buying journey can be stressful. However, with Navarre Real Estate Source, you can rest assured you will be treated like family. Using a trusted and experienced real estate agent, understanding different loan types and comprehending the nuances of the home buying adventure, you will be set up for success for owning your dream home.

How to Stage Your Home to Sell

Selling a property can be an exciting yet challenging process, but staging it correctly can make a huge of difference in how quickly your home sells.

Look no further than Navarre Real Estate Source for all of your real estate needs. Our team of experts can help you from staging tips for your home to handing off the keys. So grab your beach chair, sunscreen and towels and head to the beach – let us handle this!

Staging is all about creating a welcoming and visually appealing environment that helps potential buyers see themselves living in your home; and showcases the best features of your property while also creating a neutral and inviting atmosphere.

Here are staging tips to get you started:

First, imagine… a multiple-offer situation on your home.

Declutter and Depersonalize: Begin by decluttering your home, removing any unnecessary items, and organizing your belongings. This helps create a sense of space and allows buyers to envision their own belongings in the house. You can take it a step further by removing personal photographs or overly specific decor that might distract buyers from imagining themselves in the space.

Deep Clean: A clean and tidy home goes a long way in impressing potential buyers. Deep clean every nook and cranny, paying attention to windows, floors, carpets, and bathrooms. (Don’t forget the baseboards and top of cabinets!) If needed, consider hiring professional cleaners to ensure your home is sparkling clean and fresh. (Do you need a recommendation? Ask us!)

Highlight the Best Features: Identify the key selling points of your home and accentuate them. Whether it’s a stunning fireplace, a spacious kitchen, or a breathtaking view, arrange furniture and decor to draw attention to these features. Make sure they are well-lit and easily accessible during a walk-through.

Neutralize Colors and Decor: Staging your home doesn’t begin and end with just the furniture and a freshly cleaned home. Sometimes paint colors can sway potential buyers away from purchasing your home. Opt for neutral tones when it comes to paint colors and decor.

Neutral colors create a blank canvas that allows buyers to imagine their own style in the space. Consider repainting any bold or personalized walls with a fresh coat of light, neutral paint. Find your perfect color with the Top 50 colors from Sherwin Williams.

Rearrange Furniture: Arrange furniture in a way that maximizes space and flow of your home. Create clear pathways and remove any bulky or unnecessary pieces that might make rooms feel cramped. Use mirrors strategically to add depth and make rooms appear larger. Don’t forget to pull furniture away from windows so curtains can hang freely.

Let the Light In!: Open up curtains, blinds, and drapes to let in natural light. Bright, well-lit rooms feel more inviting and spacious. If natural light is limited, strategically place lamps and light fixtures to illuminate darker areas. (Extra tip: don’t forget to clean lampshades/globes during your deep clean.)

Add Simple Touches: Consider adding some tasteful and simple touches to enhance the overall appeal. Fresh flowers, a bowl of fruit in the kitchen, or a cozy throw blanket can make a space feel warm and welcoming.

Don’t Neglect the Outdoors: Curb appeal matters! Make sure your home’s exterior is well-maintained, with a clean and inviting entrance. Cut the lawn, prune any overgrown bushes, and consider adding potted plants or flowers to the front porch. A well-kept exterior creates a positive first impression. (Don’t forget the mailbox! Add new numbers if they’ve begun to peel.)

Remember, the goal of staging is to make your home feel like a blank canvas that potential buyers can see themselves living in. By following our tips, you’ll create an environment that’s inviting, neutral, and appealing to a wide range of buyers.

Give us a call or contact us to begin selling your home.

The History of Navarre Florida

Navarre is a picturesque community located in the northwest part of Florida, known for its stunning, soft, white sandy beaches and rich history. The area has a long and diverse past, with influences from Native American tribes, Spanish explorers, and American settlers.

A Brief History of Navarre

The history of Navarre dates back to the early 16th century when Spanish explorers first arrived on its shores. They encountered the indigenous people, including the Creek and Choctaw tribes, who had already established settlements in the area. The Spanish colonized the region and built several forts, such as Santa Rosa and San Miguel, to protect their interests.

In the 19th century, Navarre became a popular area for settlers due to its fertile land and access to the Santa Rosa Sound. The community grew slowly but steadily, relying on agriculture, fishing, and lumbering as the primary sources of income. The construction of the Pensacola and Atlantic Railroad in the late 19th century further facilitated growth and trade in the region.

Navarre witnessed significant development during the 20th century. In the 1920s, the creation of the Santa Rosa Sound Bridge, later replaced by the Navarre Bridge, improved connectivity with nearby cities and led to increased tourism. The region’s natural beauty and pristine beaches attracted visitors and spurred the growth of the tourism industry.

The Local Area, Today

Today, the local area is a vibrant community with a population of approximately 45,000 residents; renowned for its top-notch neighborhoods and excellent schools, making it an attractive place for families. Some of the notable neighborhoods include:

• Holley by the Sea: Situated east of Navarre, this large subdivision offers various amenities like a community center, swimming pools, tennis courts, and access to the East Bay. It is known for its spacious homes and a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Navarre Beach: Located on a barrier island, Navarre Beach is a sought-after neighborhood known for its pristine white sandy beaches and stunning waterfront properties. It offers a tranquil coastal lifestyle with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico.
• Whispering Pines: Situated near the Santa Rosa Sound, this neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It boasts a peaceful atmosphere and is known for its well-maintained properties and lush greenery.

Navarre also prides itself on its educational institutions. The community is served by several excellent schools, including:

• Holley-Navarre Primary School: With under 1,000 students, Holley-Navarre Primary School is a highly-rated elementary school offering quality education to young students.
• Holley-Navarre Intermediate School: Similar to Holley-Navarre Primary school, Holley-Navarre Intermediate School also has under 1,000 students. This school provides education to first to fifth-grade students and focuses on academic excellence and character development. The student to teacher ratio is estimated at 14:1.
• Navarre High School: With under 2,500 students, Navarre High School ranks 2nd among 7 ranked high schools in the district. This school is a comprehensive school offering a wide range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and sports.

These schools, along with others in the area, prioritize providing students with a well-rounded education and preparing them for future success.

The local area has more to offer than just the white sandy beaches; it boasts a rich history and has grown into a thriving community. Its top neighborhoods offer diverse living options, from family-friendly subdivisions to coastal luxury properties. The excellent schools in Navarre emphasize quality education and help foster the growth and development of the community’s young minds.

Are you ready to make Navarre your home? Contact us today to begin your search for the perfect home for your family.

Why Do You Need a Real Estate Agent?

Choosing the right real estate agent is a crucial decision when buying or selling your property. A skilled and reliable real estate agent can guide you through the complex process, offer our expert advice, negotiate on your behalf, and help you achieve your real estate goals. That is why you have the team at Navarre Real Estate Source.

Benefits of Choosing Navarre Real Estate Source

Expertise and Local Market Knowledge – One of the primary reasons to choose the right realtor is their expertise and in-depth knowledge of the local market. Our real estate agents will have extensive experience and understanding of the local Navarre (and surrounding) areas, local real estate trends, prices and inventory. We can provide you with valuable insights about the neighborhood, school districts, amenities, and future development plans.

Whether you’re searching for a home on the beach, a home in a great school zone, turnkey or a fixer upper, we have the knowledge to help you make informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information.

Negotiation Skills – Negotiating is an essential aspect of any real estate transaction. Our skilled real estate agents can advocate for your best interests and negotiate effectively on your behalf. We also specialize in helping military families buy or sell their homes quickly.

We have the expertise to analyze market conditions, assess property values, and craft strategic offers or counteroffers. By leveraging our top-notch negotiation skills, we can help you secure the best possible deal, whether you are buying or selling a property.

Access to Resources and Network – Realtors have access to a wide range of resources and networks that can significantly benefit their clients. With our connections with other professionals in the industry, such as mortgage brokers, home inspectors and contractors, you can rest assured you are in great hands. Our connections can streamline the process and ensure that you have access to reliable and reputable service providers.

Time and Effort Savings – Buying or selling a property involves numerous tasks, paperwork, and coordination. Our skilled realtors can handle these responsibilities on your behalf, saving you time and effort. We will schedule all property showings, handle negotiations and oversee the closing process.

Family is important and we understand the stress or buying or selling a home. By choosing Navarre Real Estate Source, you are able to focus on other aspects of your life while having peace of mind knowing that a professional is taking care of your real estate needs.

Mitigating Risks and Avoiding Pitfalls – With Navarre Real Estate Source, your homebuying experience is personal and handled with the upmost care. Real estate transactions can be complex and involve potential risks and pitfalls. Working with an experienced real estate agent can help you navigate these challenges and protect your interests. We can identify red flags in property listings, perform due diligence, and advise you on potential issues such as zoning restrictions, title concerns, or property defects. With our guidance we can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth and successful transaction.

Emotional Support and Advocacy – The process of buying or selling a property can be emotionally charged and stressful. Navarre Real Estate Source’s trustworthy real estate agents can provide the necessary support and act as your advocate throughout the journey. We can offer objective advice, address your concerns, and provide reassurance during challenging times. Having a reliable professional by your side can alleviate stress, instill confidence, and make the entire experience more enjoyable.

Choosing the right agent is paramount for a successful and stress-free real estate transaction. Our expertise, negotiation skills, access to resources, and ability to mitigate risks can make a significant difference in achieving your goals. By selecting the right real estate agent, you are investing in a trusted partner who will guide you through the process and maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

Our real estate agents offer comprehensive real estate services in the Navarre area. We provide expert guidance, market analysis, and negotiation assistance. Whether buying or selling, we are dedicated to helping our clients achieve their real estate goals efficiently and effectively. Contact us today to get started.

Get Ready to Sell Your Home

Summer seems like a long way off, but if you’re planning to move this summer, this is the time to start getting your house ready to sell. It can take several months to prepare, especially if you’re busy with work, school, or children’s activities.

The first task at hand is decluttering. You’ll have to pack anyway, so start now by putting away family photos, excess furniture, area rugs that keep your floors from being seen and collectibles. If you have very much to pack away, you may need to rent a storage space.

Repairs may take longer and may not have been noticeable until you decluttered. Is anything broken or is paint damaged? Be sure to check your baseboards in case they’re dusty. Make sure doors open and close correctly and that door knobs aren’t loose. Do faucets drip? Prospective buyers will notice all these things.

When all these jobs are complete, and you’re close to time to list your home, give it a good cleaning from top to bottom, including carpets. Make sure there are no pet stains or odors.
Don’t neglect the outdoors. Mow the lawn, use the weedeater, sweep the porch and put out some flowers.

The hard work has been completed, now you just have to keep it clean. The rest is in the hands of your Realtor at Navarre Real Estate Source.

Real Estate Trends for Now & Beyond

Real estate is a hot topic these days, especially in the sunbelt where we are located. More and more people are discovering what we already knew – the southern part of the country is a great place to live.

While the sunbelt stretches from California to North Carolina, we all know how popular Florida is and always has been. The state has much to offer. The influx of people moving to the south from big cities north of the sunbelt could last several more years.

Virtual tours of homes became popular during the Covid-19 pandemic and will continue. Digital home buying, including 3D tours and drone views, are very popular now, and homes can be purchased without ever stepping foot in the actual home. This is useful if the buyer lives many, many miles away. Virtual tours have become beneficial for military members who are being transferred to one of the nearby bases.

You can also qualify and receive a mortgage online without having to go to an office. The online trends of financing and buying will continue into the future because of the simplicity.
Relocation to the area has increased the demand for single family homes. This, in turn, has caused increased home prices and a shortage of single family homes.

The market always has its ups and downs, but people will still need housing. Building will continue, as well as people relocating from one area to another and needing to buy or sell.
The best thing for a potential buyer or seller to do is to contact Navarre Real Estate Source and let a Realtor guide you through your sale or purchase.

Property Rentals and Management

The Emerald Coast has several qualities that make it a destination for vacationers and individuals looking to put down roots. The sugar-white sands, seemingly transparent water, endless entertainment, and the beautiful weather make the panhandle a very desirable destination. Owning a home on the Emerald Coast can be very attractive, but can also be stressful for those looking to rent their home out. This is especially true for homeowners that may have had to leave the state. Here at Navarre Real Estate our goal is to alleviate that stress with our trustworthy and knowledgeable services.

One of the smartest things a homeowner can do, if applicable, is rent their home out. However, renting your home out is accompanied by various responsibilities that some individuals might not have the time for. Luckily, that is our expertise at Navarre Real Estate. We offer full-service property management that is guaranteed to relieve some of the stresses that renting out your home can bring.

Our property management service is comprehensive, including an extensive checklist for your home. Additionally, we emphasize tenant screening and procurement. Your home will be listed on numerous popular home-rental websites to assure it is promoted aggressively. Also, our tenant screening is considerable, but fair, to ensure that your home is being treated respectfully.

Finally, we offer a FREE initial inspection. This helps reassure our clients that they are getting the best ROI while leasing their home. For additional information and fees, please visit the “Property Management” tab and select “Services Overview” on our website. We look forward to listing your home and helping diminish your trouble!