What Should You Know about Foreclosure Homes on Anna Maria Island

Credit for this photo goes to EquiFax

A foreclosure on a home is a when a homeowner failed to pay the mortgage. A foreclosure usually takes a while to fully complete and after 3-6 months of not receiving any payment the lender of the home records a public notice with the County Recorder’s Office stating that the homeowner has defaulted on his mortgage. After the homeowner receives the Notice of Default, the homeowner enters pre-foreclosure. During this time frame (which is usually 30-120 days depending on location) the homeowner can work out an agreement with the lender by performing a short sale or pay off the outstanding amount owned. If the amount is paid the foreclosure ends.

   If the deadline ends and the amount is still not paid the lender sets a date for the home to be sold at a foreclosure auction. The notice of the auction is then recorded with the County Recorder’s Office with notifications sent to the homeowner, posted on the property, and printed in the newspaper. If a third party does not purchase the property at the auction the lender takes ownership of the home and it becomes a bank-owned property or REO (real estate owned).

•           Be cautious of the current owner- if the owner still lives there you now have to worry about evicting the owner and they could possibly vandalize the home before leaving it.
•          Buy from a bank- look for a home owned by a bank or REO. The bank is usually required to pay off senior liens like back taxes and you can now inspect the home for damage.
•      Beat the crowds- after the home goes to foreclosure, but before it’s listed you could approach the lender directly and say that you are interested in it. If it’s a local or community bank and the home has been on listing for a while they may be more than happy to get rid of it.
•          Find a realtor that specializes in foreclosure homes in Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, or Anna Maria- they can help advise you in pricing, local zoning issues or state law constraints, as well as looking in to public records on if the property has any recorded liens; such as, unpaid taxes, repair/ maintenance bills, or homeowner association dues. Once you purchase the home you’re now responsible for those outstanding liens.

I'd be happy to help you start your search for a home for sale on Anna Maria Island. Call me at 941-545-8877 for all your real estate needs! Let's get you started living the Anna Maria Life!

Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Google +.

I

I

Information on First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Credit for this photo goes to Express

You've found that perfect first home you've always been looking for on Anna Maria Island- big swimming pool, fenced in backyard, spacious kitchen, and tons of room to have friends and family over. Being a first time homebuyer, I'm sure you searched the internet for options. You may have been one of many getting overwhelmed by all the information available. Don't worry! I've don't some research myself in order to help you get started with what you need.

First, what is a first time home buyer program and what does it do? It's a program that was set up to help make purchasing a home more affordable for low-to-moderate income families and individuals by offering fixed, low-interest rate mortgage loans.

Now, if you're unfamiliar with what a mortgage loan is, it's a loan that is given to you by using your home/property in exchange for funds that you agree to pay back in a certain time frame for a certain cost.

After looking at Florida Housing's website, I found a wizard that may be able to help provide you with more information regarding the first time home buyer programs. Using this tool it gave a little bit of insight for what you may be eligible for as well as more information regarding income limits, purchase price limits, down payment assistance, and more.

Example List of Available Florida First Time Homebuyer Programs:

•          Florida First (FHA, VA, & RD only) with an interest rate of 4.5000% this program is available to all first time homebuyers by reducing the cost of your first mortgage.
•        Florida Military Heroes (FHA, VA, & RD only) with an interest rate of 4.2500% this program is a 30 year fixed rate mortage loan program that was designed to help veterans and active duty personnel. It reduces the first mortgage interest rate and veterans don't have to be first time homebuyers.
•          Both the FL HFA Preferred Conventional Loan Program and the HFA Preferred Plus Conventional Loan Program have an interest rate of 4.2500%. They both offer reduced first mortgage interest rates.

The programs listed above are just a few of many. You're never in the search alone. Check my website out at Anna Maria Life. I would be honored to help you search for your first, second, or any home you're looking to move into. Call me, Billi, at 941-545-8877 for any of your Anna Maria Island real estate needs.

Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Google +.

Market Statistics for 2015-2016 Anna Maria Island

To schedule a tour of this home (shown in the picture above), call me at 941-545-8877. If you're ready to start your search for the perfect home for sale on Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, or Bradenton Beach reach out to me with any real estate questions you have. Are you ready to experience the Anna Maria Island Life?

Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Google +.

Are You Relocating to a New Area?

Relocating to a New Area, Questions You Should Ask Yourself

Picking up and moving to Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, or Bradenton Beach has a nice share of headaches to give. Will I be able to continue my current job? Should I move my own stuff or should I hire professional movers? Will I be able to continue my degree in the new area? Many Americans wish they could move to a Anna Maria Island, but they are not sure how to begin. Chances are, you are one of them. Before you being packing your belongings and hiring professional movers, consider these questions to make moving easier.

Can I afford it?

   This probably sound pretty obvious, but you can never plan enough when you are thinking of moving to Anna Maria Island. For some you may only be moving to a new city, but for others you may be moving to a different state entirely. Based on my experience last minute expenses come up as well as unexpected problems you may never predict that could happen. I always kept hoping for that ray of light that will guide me through the new unknown, living in a new area on my own. By having your expenses calculated and even some extra set on the side, you’ll be set for whatever comes your way. 

Moving for Your Job

   If you’re relocating for your job check with your company to see what they may cover. It’s very important to know what they may or may not help you with. Some employers may cover travel expenses for trying to find your new home on Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, or Bradenton Beach, and may also cover shipping and packing services. You’ll save yourself some time and money by asking your company.

Decide on What You’re Moving

    Everyone has that favorite Lazyboy or that 50” Box TV, but is it really cost-effective to move them to your new home? Look at everything you have- especially furniture and electronics. Decide if it would make more sense to sell those items before moving and reinvesting in them once you arrive.

How Long do You Want to Stay There?

    Are you only wanting to stay for a year? Or do you see yourself raising your family and your grandchildren? You don’t have to necessarily have an answer to this, but it is good to think about. It will give you a better idea of where you’re wanting to go or aim for.

What About Your Vices?

Everyone has their vices. Their favorite skating rink, nail salon, boutique, fast food, etc. The thing that I loved, country ham biscuits and Cracker Barrel were the things I hoped would be near my new home. I reached my new house off of Anna Maria Island and began exploring restaurants hoping to find my two favorites. I did luckily find Cracker Barrel, but unfortunately still no luck for the country ham. However, I did find some new favorites like fish tacos, salmon, and more. If you’ve got those favorites you can’t do without, I suggest stocking up on them. 

What Are You Gaining By Moving to a New Area?

   This is a pretty cool question to play with. Think of what you can learn, do, and experience in Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, and Anna Maria.  My favorite part about moving was that I moved from a very small town to a larger one. I have tons new restaurants, stores, and more to explore.

No matter where you’re going you’ve got tons of resources you can use: Internet, Papers, Real Estate Agents, and other people around you. Utilize all of those sources to help you make the best decision you can when you’re ready to relocate to a new area.

I really recommend checking out Lifehacker.com for more tips and such for relocating to a new area. To begin your search for that perfect home for sale on Anna Maria Island or any other real estate questions you may have please call me at 941-545-8877. Are you ready to be a part of the Anna Maria Life.

Check out available listings on Anna Maria Island here.

Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Google +.

Check out my newest listing- 131 Hammock Road, Anna Maria!

131 Hammock Road, Anna Maria

Check out my newest listing- 131 Hammock Road! This gorgeous house has everything you need to entertain your guests on Anna Maria Island- swimming pool, spacious rooms, and a wood burning fireplace. The best thing about this house is that it's located on the canals that lead to the bay and you're only three blocks away from Pine Avenue.You're only minutes away from Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach as well!  #‎AnnaMariaIsland‬ ‪#‎AnnaMaria‬ ‪#‎Florida‬ ‪#‎houseforsale‬ ‪#‎AMIRE‬‪#‎AnnaMariaLife‬

To schedule a tour of this home or other homes on Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, or Bradenton Beach for sale, please contact Billi at 941-545-8877

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ to stay up to date with island life and Anna Maria Real Estate!

Beautiful Snead Island Home for Sale in Palmetto

ANNA MARIA REAL ESTATE
exclusively presents

1760 Amberwynd Circle W.

Just put on the market on Snead Island, Palmetto. This stunning waterfront property for sale will be your dream home. Enjoy majestic views of the bay in this 4 bedroom and 3 bath house. The aquarium style windows gives you a wondrous view of your multi-tiered lanai and screened in heated swimming pool.

Made up of many small neighborhoods, Snead Island is counted as one of the most sought out areas in the county. Classified as a waterfront and boating community, Amberwynd is a small community that holds special group activities. Enjoy docking your boat at the newly renovated Trex deck dock with a 10,000 lb. boat lift. Another plus about this newly added real estate property is the enormous backyard and the spacious kitchen.

To schedule a tour, gather further information on this property and to find similar listings, please contact Billi at 941-545-8877

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ to stay up to date with island life and Anna Maria Real Estate!

Beautiful Real Estate Listing for Sale in Bradenton

 

Check out this cozy 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom in Perico Bay Club. Featuring a glass enclosed and tile floored lanai this home is the perfect real estate option for anyone looking to live close to Anna Maria Island and Bradenton. Another plus about this home is that it's close to the Robinson Preserve and Neil Preserve. Check out the full real estate listing for this beautiful condo that's for sell.  #AnnaMariaIsland   #PericoBayClub   #Bradento   #realestate  #condoforsale  

   1008 Ibis Court <Real Estate Listing>

To schedule a tour, gather further information on this property and to find similar listings, please contact Billi at 941-545-8877

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ to stay up to date with island life and Anna Maria Real Estate!

Check out these 7 tips for new real estate investors!

So you’ve decided that you want to start investing in real estate. Great! Check out these tips on how to get started on investing.

• Check your credit score to determine if you’re able to finance a investment property.
• Consider multiple sources for looking at and buying properties. A lot of new investors thing they only have the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) site or by knocking on doors looking for the opportunity to buy. Don’t forget to check out other real estate sites, auctions, and your local papers.
• Find a good bank or mortgage broker in the area you are financing your investment properties at.
• Get in the mindset that real estate investing is a business. Develop a good business plan that will detail starting and running your business with realistic goals.
• Pick a good neighborhood. You’re going to want to know that you’ll be able to make a profit off of the investment.
• Buy the investment property at a good price. If you can buy a property for 12 times the amount of it’s annual rent- then that’s a good deal.
• Don’t get overexcited. People forget to not invest too much in the beginning. Start small and work. That way you won’t have to magically recoup quickly.

What Should I Look for When Purchasing an Existing Home

It’s best to do careful research and evaluation of existing homes for sale before buying your new home. By checking everything out beforehand it ensures that your new home will be comfortable, cost effective, and holds its value in the future.

• How much work will need to be done after you move in? (Make sure to look at all the cabinets, flooring, walls, appliances, etc) If you have to do home improvements how much will it cost you to do them.
• If there are damages to the home can you fix them on your own or will you need to hire a contractor?
• Is there enough room for storage and your furniture? (Measure you furniture before you buy to make sure everything will fit.)
• If you have kids, research the schools in the area. Check how the schools near-by perform and compare to other schools in the state.
• If you have pets, are you going to have enough room for them in the house and outdoors?
• Does the home condition and tax value match the seller’s price?
• Do you like the landscaping or are you going to want to change it? If you are probably going to change it, estimate how much it will cost. Take into consideration if you are going to be able to do it on your own or if you’ll have to hire a contractor.
• Check out the condition of the neighborhood that you’re looking at. How are the neighbors’ houses? Are they looking run down? The condition of the neighborhood could affect your home’s value if you plan on selling it in the future.
• Does the house require a mandatory membership? If so, find out how much and what it goes towards. Check out the neighborhood and talk to the neighbors to see how they like it in that area.
• Make a wish list of things that you’re wanting. This will make it easier to judge how much work may be needed after you move in.
• Make a check list of things that you should check out; such as, cabinets, appliances, faucets, toilets, heating and air systems, and lighting. 

Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Google + for more updates and information!

What to do to get your home prepped for showing day

You’re ready to show your home to potential buyers, but you’re not sure what to do to make it show ready. We’ve compiled a small list of things to help you out.

• Detach yourself from the home- Now that the property is on the market for sale it’s best to start calling it your property instead of home. By doing this you’ll be able to separate from the home and sell it. This is leading into the next tip: depersonalize your property.
• Depersonalize the property- Remove family photos, religious items, trophies, artwork from your children, etc. When a potential buyer is looking at your property they’re going to be imagining what it would be like as their home. By having any personal items removed it will make it much easier for them to imagine it as theirs.
• Remove any signs of a pet- Your pet’s bed/ litter box has a distinct smell that could turn away potential buyers. Stow them away inside the house somewhere, though it’s probably best to remove them completely from the property.
• Make sure it looks clean- If a potential buyer walks into your property and notices that it is dirty they will probably walk back out. This is the time to SUPER CLEAN the house from top to bottom- steam the carpets, mop & wax the floors, clean your windows inside & outside, and make sure your appliances are scoured. Make sure to have fresh garbage bags in your trash cans. Really clean those handrails, stair banisters, and any other items that have a “Touch Me” texture to them.
• Make sure it smells clean too- Now that your property is clean make sure it smells clean too. Air your home out to get rid of any odors. Make sure to remove pet items as well. Your pet’s bed/ litter box will leave a lingering smell. A good way to make your property inviting is appealing to their nose. Bake a fresh batch of cookies, some bread, or even brew some coffee. Not only will the house smell nice you’ll also have something to offer your guests. If it’s cold outside make some hot cocoa or some cider it will have a nice affect to your guests.
• Clean out those closets!- If a potential buyer sees all the closets jam packed with a bunch of stuff they’re going to worry about space. Clean out and organize your closets to give them the illusion that there is tons of room.

These are only a few tips of many that can help you prep for showing day. Check out Pintrest and other social media sites to get some ideas. 

Check us out on Facebook, Twitter, and Google +. 

What to ask for when looking for a potential home

When looking for potential homes not everyone knows what to ask when starting out. We’ve gathered some common questions that should be asked when looking for a home.

1.      What is this property’s worth? Your realtor should have prices of similar, nearby homes that have sold recently and the high to low ranges for the property. 

2.      How flexible is the seller on the asking price? It’s better to ask if the seller is flexible on the price rather than offering a price that is way too low and possible losing the opportunity to buy the home. Also, see if the seller is willing to help with closing costs. Some sellers will help in order to close the sale quickly.

3.      What’s wrong with the house? A lot of people are going to want to say that there is absolutely nothing wrong with the house you’re looking at; however, it’s best to find out if there is something instead of something happening later down the road. Some sellers will have their house inspected already and you can ask for that document.

4.      Is the home in a flood plain? If you’re looking at a potential house in a flood plain you’ll probably have to purchase flood insurance. Ask what type of flood plain the house is in and how much it costs to have the flood insurance on the house.

5.      Will the lender allow a short sale? A short sale allows the property to be sold for less than the amount of the outstanding mortgage. Make sure to ask yourself (if it was allowed) why it was granted and make sure that the seller has talked to the lender to get it approved. You don’t want to find out later that the lender did not actually approve of the short sale.

6.      Are there any foreclosures for sale in the area? Some realtors won’t like the question, but if you can find a house similar to what you’re looking for and in a better price range it’s better for you and your family. You could have some extra money to fix or add things to your new home.

7.      Do you have the paperwork for the mechanical systems? Not many people know to ask this when buying a new home, but if 5 years from now your air conditioning system stops working you’re going to want to know if it is under warranty or not.

Check us out on: Facebook, Twitter, and Google + for more updates and information!

Experience paradise as never before!

Are you looking for a gated community with access to your very own intercoastal waterway access? Would you like to have a heated saltwater swimming pool? This beautiful Snead Island property has been recently posted for sale. Experience paradise like never before. Walk into the main corridor equipped with 14 foot ceilings, crown moldings, and rope lighting that merges into the spacious kitchen. Entertain your guest with a walk through of the Aquarium style windows that gives you a gorgeous view of your multi-tiered lanai. This stunning home is minutes away from Emerson Point, Bradenton Yacht Club, and more. Click the link below to see the full listing for 1760 Amberwynd Circle West or gives us a call at 931-565-8877.

http://www.annamariaislandrealestateforsale.com/paradise-home-sale-palmetto-anna-maria-life-and-billi-gartman/

                           

Check us out on Facebook  and Google +. 

Looking to renovate your kitchen? Check out the top 5 trends for kitchen designs of 2015.

1. Furniture- The furniture of your kitchen is the biggest thing that’s going to catch your guest’s attention besides your appliances. The current trend that’s happening is having a personal, warm, and welcoming kitchen. Go for those beautiful dark, cherry wood cabinets and shelving. Turning your kitchen into something like your living room makes it nice to be in and enjoy prepping your family’s meals
2.   Open Shelving- Gone are the closed cabinet doors! With open shelves it makes your kitchen look warm and lived in. Also with the easily accessible shelves it’s still totally function for you and your family. When your children use to leave the doors open and you’d have to dodge them. No worries! You never have to worry about the cabinet doors again.      
   
3.   Modern/Traditional- Many homes are now switching over to combining modern and traditional styles in the kitchen. It makes your kitchen sleek, but also very homey. You can feel free to mix the materials in your kitchen such as: having wood cabinets and marble counter tops to even having stainless steel appliances in your kitchen with wooden furniture. It makes it your own personal space for just about everything you and your family need.  
   
4.  Textures- Imagine walking into your home and seeing ridges on your counter. You’re asking yourself “Is that really ridges or just some form of an optical illusion?” Go on and touch it. Textures are the next biggest thing in kitchen designs. It makes people want to touch where it’s textured and it also adds more depth to your kitchen when using different textures.  
   
5.   No wall cabinets- Having no wall cabinets means that your kitchen will look bigger. Now, having no wall cabinets is not for everyone, but it gives you the illusion of space. You’ll also have more room to set up some of your beautiful paintings that you may have gotten from a local Anna Maria Island artist.

A Few Top Things to do on Anna Maria Island

One of the best things to do while vising Anna Maria Island is riding your bike. There are bike lanes throughout most of the island and there are rarely any hills to have to go over. Using a bike is a great way of getting from place to place. You don’t have to bother with any of the traffic and you can easily lock your bike at any bike rack located at most of the businesses. Riding your bike to the beach is great too! You don’t have to worry about finding a parking spot! All you have to do is put your beach items in the basket, bike to the beach location you love, lock it up, and now you’re ready to enjoy the beach.

Anna Maria Island’s beach is stunning. Enjoy the warm Florida sunshine and slight island breeze while resting on the white, sugary sands. Much of the island’s real estate gives opportunity to gulf front and waterfront homes as well as beach access points. Take a bike ride up to the Historic Anna Maria City Pier. The walk to the restaurant on the gulf is beautiful with the view of the Skyway Bridge, local fishermen, and wildlife such as dolphins or manatee. You can sit inside or outside to enjoy the views of the gulf. The food is delicious! Local favorites are the Fish & Chips dish, Shrimp basket, Crab cake Croissant, and the Grouper Sandwich. Occasionally there is also a jewelry shop outside the restaurant’s doors; so, feel free to take a look and find you may find something you like.

While you’re at the north end of Anna Maria Island there are tons of little shops to visit as well as some great food to try. There are boutiques, souvenirs, and more! Two Scoops, a local favorite for ice cream is nestled in a little stretch of business just outside of the city pier. Two Scoops has tons of different flavors for ice cream that you can choose from. If you want that waffle cone bowl- go for it! They have that too! They also have snacks, drinks, and a couple things you can buy as souvenirs. The best part about Two Scoops is that you can enjoy your ice cream outside looking out at the magnificent turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Throughout Anna Maria Island there is a free trolley that you can hop on and see the sight of Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, and Coquina Beach. With so much to offer this little island is perfect for your home away from home.

Palmetto: Oceanfront Home for Sale

1760 Amberwynd Circle, Palmetto, FL 34221

This listing is perfect for relaxing and entertaining guests. The open floor plan expands throughout the home from the vast kitchen and gorgeous multi-tiered lanai to the heated saltwater pool with a cascading waterfall. Go out for a boating adventure anytime with your boat docked at the newly covered Trex deck with a 10,000 lb. lift. Enjoy family gatherings or events with the expansive backyard surrounded with lush vegetation.

Feel like you are on vacation everyday in this beautiful John Cannon style home. The style is a company called John Cannon Homes that is Southwest Florida's premier designer and builder of luxury custom homes. This home is located in the Snead Island West Amberwynd neighborhood and has a generous amount of space. The biggest appeal of this home is that you are living right on the water. You have an amazing view of the canals and are only minutes away from the Bradenton Beach Yacht Club and Emerson Point and Anna Maria Island Real Estate. It's unbelievable that the location that this house is in and the house itself is available for purchase instead of renting. Living on Snead Island is a unique experience that is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and here it is!

      

 Click the Image above to go to the house listing

Property Details:

• 4 Bedrooms
• 3 Full Bathrooms
• 2,880 sq. feet
• Single Family Home
• 3 Car Garage
• Built in 2006
• Address: 1760 Amberwynd Circle, Palmetto, FL 34221
• Neighborhood: Snead Island Estates West Amberwynd

Interior Features:

• Kitchen: Walk-in Pantry, Built-in desk, and a Kitchen Island
• Bathrooms: Tub with separate shower stall, Dual sinks, and a Garden Bath in the Master Bathroom
• Bedroom: Walk-in Closet (Master Bedroom)
• Cathedral/ Vaulted Ceilings, Crown Moldings, Thermal Windows
• Washer/ Dryer Hookup
• Open Floor Plan
• Separate breakfast and formal dining room, Family room

Exterior/ Lot Features:

• Patio/Porch/ Screened in Deck
• Sliding doors
• Hot Tub/ Spa
• Balcony/ Sun Deck
• Gulf/ Ocean Access
• Intracoasta Waterway Access
• Heated Saltwater Pool with a Cascading Waterfall

View this house listing at: http://www.annamariaislandrealestateforsale.com/paradise-home-sale-palmetto-anna-maria-life-and-billi-gartman/

To schedule a tour, gathering further information on this property and to find similar listings, please contact Billi at 941-545-8877

Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ to stay up to date with island life and Anna Maria Real Estate!