International Buyers
The need for one agent: How we differ from estate agents
The US system allows me to assist you with every aspect of finding a home. This saves you time, as you don't have to call several agents to view properties. Our MLS system allows me access to all the properties listed in the Central Florida area. Once you let me know your needs, I can then search for properties for you (or you can "surf the MLS" on your own and you can let me know properties that are of interest to you). When you are ready to view the homes I will make appointments and follow it through to the closing process and after!
What are the benefits of using a REALTOR®?
One of the most important attributes of a REALTOR® is that he/she is well connected to the real estate industry. As a REALTOR®, I have knowledge of the local market and market conditions, have access to information on past sales and current listings, and know what's hot or not in your community.
Some of the many benefits include:
- Assistance in preparing a comparative marketing analysis, which helps you research homes in the area.
- Knowledge of properties new to the market, or those that are about to be listed.
- Access to property information via the Multiple Listing Service. This database enables REALTORS ® to search for properties in their local area. For example - our Multiple Listing Service allows us to search for properties in Brevard, Lake, Osceola, Orange, Polk, Seminole, Volusia, and many other counties in the Central Florida area.
- Assistance in navigating through the home-buying process.
- Attendance at closing and assistance with any last-minute problems or details.
- The builder or seller pays the commission to the REALTOR ® so it costs you nothing
What is short-term rental?
A short term rental property can be rented daily, weekly, or monthly. The majority of customers who purchase properties to rent out, will hire a mangement company to rent it for them.
If you are interested in purchasing a property and renting it out on a short-term basis, then you want to be sure that the property is zoned accordingly.
Decorating and Furniture
Once you have purchased, or contracted to purchase a home you need to start thinking about furnishing and decorating your home. Should you wish to purchase a Custom Furnishing Package, I can provide you with contact information for several companies in which you can choose from. Your furniture package will include everything you need for your home to be a turn-key operation, including linens, plates, utensils, furniture and more. Furnishings included in the packages are tasteful and classy, providing a very comfortable setting for your guest.
Interiors by Deb
Management Company
There are many management companies to choose from and it is recommended you interview several before making your decision.
Some short-term rental communities will have on-site management, which can be very convenient and often times a good route to take. Be sure to ask, as this can save you valuable time.
A Management Company should be able to:
- Assist in connecting your utilities. Manage and maintain a reservation or booking system. Many management companies will have on-line access for their customers so they can see when their unit is being rented, etc.
- Arrange for repairs, handle utility bills and invoices related to the property.
- If you have a private pool – make sure this is routinely cleaned and maintained.
- Make sure the property is properly cleaned after each guest.
When you are interviewing management companies take into consideration some of the points above, and any other pertinent information that can help you in making your decision.
It is highly recommended that when you hire a management company – you also actively market your own property. Management companies should openly discuss this and many will discount their fees if you book your own home!
As a Buyer, how does FIRPTA affect me?
FIRPTA stands for Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act.
Whether you are a non-resident or resident of the US, you will want to be aware of possible tax consequences and guidelines that must be followed if purchasing a property from a non-resident.
For more information on this and other useful tax information you can click on this link below, or check with your accountant and/or attorney: IRS.gov
Buyers and Sellers Terms
Pre-Approval (known in Britain as Decision in Principle)
A process in which a mortgage company will offer an opinion as to what products, if any, are available to the applicant. This opinion is based entirely on the credit search history available. The pre-approval is not binding and not necessarily accurate, as the mortgage company will not have yet verified the application details.
REALTOR® (known in Britain as Estate Agent/Property Developer)
A real estate broker or an associate holding active membership in a real estate board affiliated with the National Association or REALTOR®. In the US you can select ONE REALTOR® to represent you. You do not need to use separate REALTORs® to view each property
Survey (not recognized in Britain)
A map executed by a licensed surveyor, which sets down precisely the boundaries of a given property as well as improvements, references to known landmarks, and the property principle features.
Title Insurance
The insurance that protects the mortgage company, along with the homeowner, if an owner's policy is purchased against losses resulting from problems with the title of a property, or unknown liens (charges) or other inconsistencies relating to the title of the property.
