Welcome to MICBHomes Blog Page

 We’re glad you’ve decided to stop by. In addition to giving you the latest listings here in Brevard County, it’s our team’s desire to equip you with relevant real estate information. On this blog you’ll find…

  • Advice for Homebuyers 
  • Tips for Home Sellers
  • Buzz About Brevard County
  • Waterfront Property Pointers

       ……And Much More!

So grab your coffee, pull up a virtual chair, and let us share our insider’s view to real estate in beautiful Brevard. And remember, should you ever want to pull up an actual chair and chat about any of these topics, we’re just a phone call or e-mail away.

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Nov. 8, 2019

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Brevard County

The miles of sandy beaches here in Brevard County provide residents and tourists with unlimited recreation and rejuvenation. And of course it’s only natural to want to experience something so wonderful with those you love. But when your loved one is a four-legged fur baby, that can prove difficult sometimes due to city ordinances and restrictions. When you want to share the shoreline with your furry friend, take a look at the following dog-friendly areas around the Brevard County waterfront. 

Canova Park 

Dog Hours: dawn to dusk
Indian Harbor Beach’s popular Canova Park is well-known as Brevard County’s only truly dog-friendly beach. Dogs are permitted at Canova Park on a regular basis, but they must always be on a leash and have proper tags showing license and vaccination records. Waste bags and receptacles are located beachside for easy cleanup procedures. Canova Park also offers pavilions, showers, and restrooms for humans. 

Cocoa Beach

Dog Hours: 6:00am-10:00am and 4:00pm-7:00pm (5:00pm-9:00pm during Daylight Savings Time)
At certain times of the day, dogs are allowed in a designated section of Cocoa Beach, between 4th Street South and the north end of Murkshe Park. In order to access the dog-friendly part of the beach, you must use walkways that lead directly to that zone, taking care not to walk them through the non-dog areas. Dogs must be kept on a 10 ft. leash (maximum) at all times. And of course, owners are required to clean up after their dogs, or they may face a fine of $50. 

Lori Wilson Dog Park

Dog Hours: dawn to dusk
Lori Wilson is a beach park in central Cocoa Beach that contains an off-leash dog park as a part of the facilities. Though dogs are not permitted on the actual beach, the oceanfront dog area is a great place for dogs to play in a relaxing setting. The Lori Wilson Dog Park is a fenced-in 32,000 square foot area that can be found on the south side of the greater Lori Wilson park area. As with any dog park, good behavior is required, and owners must clean up after their canines. 

Brevard County Marina Dog Park

Dog Hours: 7:00am-6:00pm
Another great spot for pups is the Marina Dog Park, located in Titusville. Although it’s not technically beachside, it is riverside with great waterfront views and cool intracoastal breezes. There are two fenced areas at Marina Dog Park, one for large dogs and another for smaller breeds, where they can run and play freely without a leash. Dogs must be vaccinated and owners must clean up promptly, using provided baggies. Drinking water is readily available as well. 

When you’re looking to take your dog on an outing in Brevard County, these beaches and waterfront parks provide some excellent options for entertainment and exercise. Have fun making some great memories with your pet along our sunny shores! 
May 13, 2019

What's New in Port Canaveral

As a bustling Atlantic seaport, the town of Port Canaveral continues to grow and develop, adding new activities and restaurants as time goes by. With the steady increase of cruise ship tourism, Port Canaveral is turning into one of Brevard County’s most desirable destinations for entertainment. Check out these new additions around the Port Canaveral area. 

Rising Tide Tap & Table


One of the most recent additions in Cape Canaveral is quickly becoming a hip hangout among the foodie crowd. With a trendy atmosphere and plenty of indoor or outdoor seating, Rising Tide is already growing in popularity among locals and tourists alike. This restaurant and bar features over 60 craft beers, specialty cocktails, and a casual menu with a contemporary twist. Come in for tacos and tequila on Tuesdays, or give the stone baked pizzas and gourmet burgers a try. With stunning views of the Exploration Tower and regular live music, Rising Tide is definitely a crowd pleaser. 

Gator’s Dockside

 

When Milliken’s Reef closed its doors, Gator’s Dockside seized the opportunity to open a new location in Port Canaveral, right along the ship canal. Waterfront dining at the port is consistently popular with customers due to the amazing views of all the vessel activity, and Gator’s Dockside is no exception. This casual venue is a perfect fit for the area with a menu of American classics and an atmosphere of vacation vibes. Come for the food and stay for the fun at Gator’s Dockside in Port Canaveral. 

Helicopter Tour


Get a bird’s eye view of the canal and beyond when you book a helicopter tour leaving right from Port Canaveral. At Cocoa Beach Helicopter Tours, you can choose from a quick overview of the locks for around $20, or venture further around the county for up to $225 (with numerous package options in between). Reviewers say it’s a great way to get an aerial view of the cruise ships, cargo operations, and shoreline. It’s even a fun way to check out a potential property, if you’re in the market! ;)  

Florida Beer Company


Though Florida Beer Company itself is not exactly “new”, the large, modern facility in Port Canaveral has only been around for a couple years. In this working brewery, you can get an inside look at the craft beer process during an informative factory tour. (Call to schedule.) Afterwards, try out the dozens of beer varieties in the taproom, including flavors such as key lime and blood orange. With games, televisions, and sometimes even live music, Florida Beer Company is a great place to hang out.

 

Port Canaveral is Brevard’s place to be for entertainment, exploration, and good eats! And, as always, if you’re looking to call Port Canaveral “home”, contact our team at any time. We’ll help you find the perfect place amidst all the local action!

March 14, 2019

Four Fantastic Space Coast Parks

Outdoor recreation is a big part of life in the Space Coast. There are dozens of community parks within our county which encourage people to get outside and be active. And because our average daily weather is arguably among the best in the nation, it’s not uncommon to see these parks getting great use. Check out these four fantastic parks, along with the neighborhoods that surround them

 

Kelly Park - Kelly Park is located in northeastern Merritt Island, along the Banana River. The park is divided into two separate spaces. Kelly Park West consists of multiple ball fields, a paved walking trail, several pavilions, a playground, and even a small fishing pier over the brackish lake. Kelly Park East is directly on the river, with a boat ramp, playground, boardwalk, and plenty of picnic tables. During the summer months, several day camps utilize the Kelly Park space, including a unique sailing and windsurfing camp for kids. If living near Kelly Park sounds sublime, check out the surrounding neighborhoods of Island Crossings, River Manor, Riviera Isles, or Surfside Estates. 

 

Taylor Park - The riverfront location of Taylor Park within Cocoa Village is a classic choice for residents and tourists alike. With its shady playground and refreshing splash pad, this park is a perennial favorite for families with small children. Taylor Park is also the host of many concerts and seasonal festivals. And because of the close proximity to Cocoa Village boutiques, restaurants, bars, and ice cream shops, Taylor Park is a popular place to extend an evening stroll along the water. If life near this amazing park sounds good to you, you may want to look at one of the surrounding condo communities such as Oleander Point, Whitley Bay, or Barclay Square.

 

Chain of Lakes Park - This massive park located along the Indian River is always bustling with athletic action. Though Chain of Lakes contains many baseball diamonds and several playgrounds, it’s ultimately best known for the miles of biking or running trails that wind along the land and over waterways. Park goers can get a bird’s eye view when they climb the observation tower, and it’s not uncommon to see alligators sunning themselves along the steep grassy banks along the trail. Hanging out at Chain of Lakes is an awesome way to spend a family afternoon, so if you want to consider a home nearby, take a look at Titusville listings.

 

Jetty Park - Because it’s situated along the barge canal, Jetty Park has an unparalleled view of cruise ships arriving and departing from the Atlantic Ocean. Jetty Park features a campground, playground, restaurant, and beach access. The white sandy dunes and lifeguard facilities make this a popular place for families to play in the waves, and the observation area along the canal is ideal for spotting sea turtles and dolphins. Because of its exclusive location and prime features, Jetty Park requires a day pass or annual pass for entry, which are quite affordable for locals. If you’d like to become one of those locals, consider the nearby neighborhoods of Ocean Woods, Discovery Bay, or Harbor Heights.

 

These are just a handful of the many parks that Brevard County has to offer. If you’d like help finding the perfect park—along with the subsequently perfect surrounding neighborhood—give our team at Coastal Life Properties a call. Because of our expert area knowledge, we can help you find a place within walking or biking distance to the park that’s just right for you.

Feb. 20, 2019

What to Expect From a Homeowners Association

Here on the Space Coast, there are plenty of neighborhoods and condo establishments that feature a Homeowners Association, especially in Viera, Rockledge, and beachside areas. Typically, a Homeowners Association is set up in planned communities in order to create a baseline for common aesthetics and collect money for communal spaces. Depending upon a person’s own individual perspective, HOAs can be viewed as either a burden or a benefit. Before purchasing property within a Homeowners Association, it’s a good idea to be acquainted with what the HOA requires along with what it offers.

 

Rules and Regulations

All Homeowners Associations establish a set of rules, some very basic and others more specific. These rules may include anything from vehicle parking restrictions to acceptable paint colors. Many residents appreciate knowing that these types of regulations have been set up by the HOA. For instance, they like knowing that neighbors cannot decide to put a hot tub in the front yard or paint their house neon orange. The HOA will often elect representatives to help enforce the rules that have been decided upon by the majority. If individual homeowners fail to comply, a fine may be issued, depending upon the HOA laws.

 

Fees and Assessments 

Living within an HOA community will definitely come at a cost. Depending upon the neighborhood, HOA fees could be due monthly, quarterly, or yearly. Condo associations usually require monthly HOA fees because they include the maintenance of common spaces such as pools, clubhouses, lawns, and other amenities. Neighborhoods with single family homes may just require a small HOA fee yearly for the upkeep of signage areas. Before purchasing in an HOA community, it’s important to budget for the monthly fees, and also set aside money for possible additional assessments. A community may require assessments for expenses outside the normal budget, such as roof replacement, parking lot pavement, or balcony work—all of which can be quite costly. Ideally, an HOA sets money aside for these big items, but not always. If possible, ask your realtor to get you a copy of the HOA bylaws and budget, in order to make the most informed decision about your home purchase. 

 

Camaraderie and Community 

With the increasing individualism in our culture, some people appreciate the neighborly appeal of a Homeowners Association. Having an HOA can produce an atmosphere of “we’re all in this together” within the community. Associations usually schedule regular meetings where neighbors are encouraged to attend in order to address issues that affect everyone. Those meetings are a great way to get to know neighbors and form a support network. These days, that type of connection is becoming more and more rare, so an HOA community can be rather comforting and homey. 

Since all HOAs run differently, if you’re looking at a property within an HOA community, it’s best to know as much information about that particular association as you can—rules, fees, meetings, enforcements, and more! As always, our team at Coastal Life Properties is here to help. We have extensive experience with HOAs and can often help you come up with answers to questions that you may not have even thought of previously. Give us a call today!

Feb. 6, 2019

Organizing Your Space to Optimize Smaller Square Footage

Organization is trending across the nation, with shows such as “Tidying Up” ranking high on Netflix. Here in Brevard County, getting organized is truly an art form, especially with such a high percentage of condos and other smaller spaces. Many homeowners are choosing a life-giving location over an excess of square footage. And while being near the beach or river is worth giving up some extra space for many buyers, living in a smaller space can come with some challenges if not organized properly. Check out these top tips for “tidying up” your Space Coast condo or smaller home. 

Think Up

When organizing your stuff in a smaller space, don’t forget about the space above your head. Getting things up and off the floor is key to utilizing every inch to its fullest. In a smaller kitchen, it’s ideal to have cabinets that reach all the way to the ceiling, even if those top shelves are out of reach. Use that space for things you don’t need on a daily basis, like party dishes, flower vases, or seasonal decor. If you don’t have ceiling-high cabinets, use the void in between to display some of your prettier kitchen items or even some of your classic book collection. Hooks and other hanging devices are also helpful in smaller spaces. Move pots and pans up to a ceiling rack. Keep pet supplies or crafting items in a series of hanging wall bins. Install hanging platforms in the garage or storage closet. Look up to tidy up!

Give Furniture Double Duty

Every piece of furniture in a small space should “earn its keep” by serving multiple purposes. In the living room, consider a storage ottoman or a pull out bed for guests. Using a trunk as a coffee table gives you a great place to stash those games and magazines. Inside bedrooms, a captain’s bed serves as both a sleeping space and a clothes dresser. Or you may want to purchase some lifts for a regular bed frame in order to slide tubs of out-of-season wardrobes underneath. Choose solid box stools for your breakfast bar or vanity in order to store linens and towels out of sight. 

Build In Functionality 

Sometimes a contractor (or a handy friend) might be the answer to all your small space dilemmas. Building custom shelves or cabinets into small nooks or angled walls helps to create usable space out of what would otherwise be wasted. Installing a pocket door can help to partition areas for greater functionality and free up space that may have been lost behind a traditional door. Creating attractive built-in cube storage may be the best way to organize a play area or office. When regular off-the-shelf furniture and organizing accessories aren’t working, building exactly what you need can enhance your current lifestyle and add value to your home for the future. 

Living in a beachside condo or cottage sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? Especially when it’s well organized and tidy! Whenever you’re ready to elevate your quality of life in a smaller space, give our team at Coastal Life Properties a call. With extensive knowledge about the local market, we’re ready to make your dreams of simple, tidy Space Coast living come true!

Jan. 14, 2019

Five Fun Space Coast Activities

When it comes to fun activities, our claim to fame here in the Space Coast is definitely the Kennedy Space Center, as well as our miles of sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. But beyond the shoreline and the NASA visitor center, there’s plenty of fun to be had here in Brevard County. Check out a few of the perhaps lesser-known activities that can be enjoyed here in our Space Coast playground. Tower

 

Exploration Tower & Segway Tour - Cape Canaveral

With its uniquely styled modern architecture, the Exploration Tower catches the eye of many Port Canaveral visitors. The Exploration Tower not only offers a bird’s eye view of the cruise ships and rockets, it also features some fascinating hands-on discovery areas where guests can learn about local history and the intracoastal ecosystem, and even virtually pilot a vessel into port. Pair this with a nearby Segway tour around the port locks and shipyards, and you’re in for a fun day of edu-tainment!

 

Indian River Queen - Cocoa Village 

Take full advantage of our waterfront locale with a river cruise on an old-fashioned paddleboat! With its bright red paddle wheel and stately presence, the Indian River Queen is an iconic sight within Historic Cocoa Village. A ride aboard the Indian River Queen is ideal for dolphin sightings during the day or enjoying live music on the water at night. Many different types of cruises are available via the Indian River Queen website, from family friendly jaunts to sunset cocktail buffets. 

King Center for the Performing Arts - Melbourne

The grand auditorium of the King Center hosts numerous plays, ballets, musicians, and comedians from across the world. Past performances showcased a wide variety from the Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty to Brian Regan and Jerry Seinfeld. Kids shows like Peppa Pig or Disney Junior are also big hits for families with little ones. You can find the Maxwell C. King Center on the Melbourne campus of Eastern Florida State College, and a complete schedule and ticket sales can be found on their website. 

 

Brevard Zoo & Treetop Trek - Viera 

Giraffes and monkeys and meerkats—oh my! With four different habitat themes to explore, the Brevard Zoo is a wonderful place for family fun. Feed the giraffes, interact with the kangaroos, or watch the playful otters swim, all in a lush tropical environment with winding boardwalk paths. Kids thoroughly enjoy the indoor animal doctor play area, the outdoor climbing structure, and the refreshing splash zone (so be sure to bring swimsuits!). For additional fun, kayak tours and train rides are available. Plus, there’s even an intricate ropes and zip line course for guests who meet the height requirement. Imagine flying right over top of an alligator swamp! 

 

Bioluminescent Tours - Indian & Banana Rivers

Just beneath the surface of the Space Coast waters, you’ll find an awe-inspiring world of glowing aquatic creatures. Similar to fireflies, these tiny organisms emit light whenever the dark waters around them are stirred. To view this magnificent natural wonder, many people enjoy taking a nighttime kayak or stand up paddle board tour. 

Bioluminescent tours run seasonally in the summer from various river locations along the Space Coast (Titusville, Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach, Melbourne), and the best time for viewing is after dark, a few days before or after each new moon. 

These five activities are just some of the many things to do here in the Space Coast. Multiple parks, bike trails, playhouses, concerts, museums, sports clubs, and fishing charters can all make for a full calendar of entertainment, if you so choose. What’s your favorite thing to do here in the Space Coast? Share it with us in the comments for a continual collaboration of community fun!

Jan. 1, 2019

Five Space Coast Restaurants to Try in 2019

Whether you’re new to the area or have been here all your life, it’s fun to spice things up with a unique eatery every now and then. Thankfully, the Space Coast has plenty of local hot spots that cater to every palate and budget. Check out these eclectic favorites on your next night out. 

 

DaKine Diego’s - Satellite Beach 

It doesn’t get much more chill than the atmosphere of DaKine Diego’s. Covered in surf stickers and graffiti, there’s not much to draw the eye…except the out-the-door line of people waiting to order. Yes, it’s that good! This place is known for insane burritos, sweet pork pitas, and a “lizzy” sauce that’s out of this world. There’s only outdoor seating at DaKine’s, so come straight from the beach covered in sand—they won’t mind. And kids love to run around in the grassy picnic area or play in the sand pit. With prices around $10, DaKine Diego’s is super casual and oh-so-good! 

 

Green Turtle - Indian Harbor Beach

Green Turtle is a boutique food market and chic cafe all in one! The chefs of the Green Turtle are constantly creating culinary works of art for their guests, with menu items like Floribbean Crab Cakes, Maple Glazed Salmon, or a New England Lobster Roll. And now, the Green Turtle is open for a delicious Sunday brunch! Creme Brûlée French Toast, anyone? The price point for Green Turtle Cafe sits around the $15-$25 mark, so it’s a great choice for lunch or a casual dinner out. After you dine, be sure to browse around the market for gourmet jellies, salads, and meats to take home. 

 

Grills - Cape Canaveral or Rockledge

Though the food at Grills is great, it’s the location and ambiance that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more. With two waterfront locations—one on the barge canal and one on the Indian River—watching cruise ships and intracoastal marine life is just as inviting as the food. Though the menu varies greatly, seafood kabobs and fish tacos are definite front runners, and you won’t want to miss the Tahiti Taters as a savory side. Prices at Grills run around $15-$30. You can expect a decent wait time, especially on weekends, but with live music, cocktails, and an amazing view, the time passes with ease.

 

The Fat Snook - Cocoa Beach

If exquisitely prepared seafood is on your mind, The Fat Snook delivers. With a trendy vibe, an extensive wine menu, and fresh catches, The Fat Snook is certainly a beachside hotspot. This menu is the type of thing that makes foodies swoon, with words like mostarda, gastrique, and cipollinis, but you could also stick with something like the shrimp and cheese grits, if you prefer a more conservative choice. Since the prices run around the $30 mark per main dish, The Fat Snook sees a wide variety of patrons from regulars to those celebrating a special occasion. 

 

Cafe Margaux - Cocoa Village

Tucked in a quiet alcove within Cocoa Village you’ll find the luxurious Cafe Margaux, featuring French cuisine and a distinguished variety of steaks. Cafe Margaux is the type of place that you’d want to visit for a special dinner, with entree prices ranging from $35-$180, but the lunch fare is lighter and runs under $20. Cafe Margaux is nationally acclaimed with appearances on Food Network and the Cooking Channel. Duck a l’Orange and Escargot are staples on the menu, but some of the best offerings come in the form of daily specials. Reservations are recommended, especially around holidays or theater performances. For discerning tastes, Cafe Margaux is a must!

 

With a new year in full swing, it’s the perfect time to try a new place, or maybe revisit an old favorite, isn’t it? What’s on your list of Space Coast restaurants to try in 2019? Let us know in the comments, or simply tell us your all-time top pick for local food. We’re making our 2019 must-eat list here at Coastal Life Properties too!

Dec. 12, 2018

5 Family Friendly Beachside Condos

As telecommuting and global marketing become more normalized, many families are considering the less traditional, low maintenance housing of condominiums. It makes a lot of sense, too, from a quality-of-life standpoint. When you’ve got limited time at home, why not trade a boring backyard for resort-like amenities on the ocean? Plus, when one (or both) parents travel frequently for work, the security of a gated and locked condo building brings peace of mind for those at home. There are many reasons for a family to choose condo living, and Brevard County has some great beachside options to choose from, each with its own fabulous family-friendly features. Here are a five that you may want to take a look at, if you’re thinking about moving your family to a condo at the beach.  

 

Mystic Vistas aka Villages of Seaport - Cape Canaveral

Safety and privacy are #1 concerns for parents, and Mystic Vistas delivers both. A well-kept and up-to-date collection of high rise buildings, Mystic Vistas sits adjacent to the ocean with locked beach access for ultimate security. Other favorable features include a fenced community pool and hot tub, gigantic balconies, secure lobby/elevator, and wide breezeways ideal for strollers. Residents testify to leaving their doors open or unlocked regularly because the building itself is so safe.  

 

Sol Y Mar - Cocoa Beach

Many families dismiss the idea of moving to a condo because they think it will feel cramped, but that’s highly unlikely at Sol Y Mar. The main attraction of these luxurious condos is space to spread out! With 2000-3000 square feet, dual under building parking spaces, and the possibility of having that hard-to-find fourth bedroom, the condos at Sol Y Mar feel more like a spacious single family home on the beach. Two pets are permitted as well!  

 

Solana Lake - Cape Canaveral

A friendly community and beautiful surroundings—that’s what you’ll find at Solana Lake. This condo community is pet friendly with plenty of amenities for the whole family to enjoy including sports courts and a unique island pool facility. Though Solana Lake is located a little ways off the beach, it’s connected to the larger Solana community with its private beach access. The property is gated and guarded, as well. 

 

Las Brisas - Satellite Beach

The townhouse style of the Las Brisas condos is attractive for families because of the separation between living and sleeping spaces. These units feature attached two car garages, private courtyards, and a third floor loft that can be used as an office, playroom, or fourth bedroom. Plenty of green space between the homes and the ocean invites a leisurely game of catch or maybe a family picnic. Quiet location and top rated schools are icing on the cake! 

 

Crescent Beach - Cocoa Beach

A southern Cocoa Beach location is desirable for families because of its quieter atmosphere away from tourists, and that’s exactly where you’ll find Crescent Beach Club. With it’s relaxed atmosphere, fenced pool, functional layout, and private beach access, Crescent Beach is an affordable option for small families. Bring your pets too! 

 

If you’re intrigued by the possibility of settling down in a beachside condo, you’ll need to be aware of the condo association’s first right of refusal. Although it’s becoming more and more common to find families in oceanfront condos, some associations still see children and/or pets as undesirable residents. It’s not fair, but sometimes it’s true. That’s where our team of real estate professionals at Coastal Life Properties can help. Let us guide you to that ideal beachside condo where your family will be welcome and can relax for years to come.

Posted in Space Coast
Oct. 31, 2018

Paint Colors Proven to Attract Buyers

A while back, a friend of mine listed her house on the market, hoping for a quick sale since her family would be moving out of state. It was a beautiful home—two stories, updated kitchen, great neighborhood—but the house barely had any showings after weeks on the market. 

Another local homeowner recently listed his charming home for sale, with personal changes on the horizon which made a move essential. Three bedrooms, new flooring, fantastic yard—yet it sat on the market for months.  

Why did it take so long for these desirable properties to be snatched up? One word: color. These sellers had chosen bold, beautiful colors for each room in their house—colors that they loved, but buyers did not. 

Whether they realize it or not, when potential buyers step into a home, they are automatically envisioning themselves there. If they find an element unappealing—even a cosmetic one, like wall color—they are less likely to feel “at home” in the house.

That homey feeling is the reason realtors recommend a fresh coat of neutral paint before listing your home on the market. As much as you love the teal in your guest bathroom and pale pink in your daughter’s room, those colors will always limit your pool of buyers. But which colors are best when you’re trying to sell? Give these proven shades a look.  

Interior Walls 

Designers recommend taking cues from flooring to make a decision about wall color. Cool neutrals with gray tones, such as Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray, are more popular right now, and thus will attract buyers. However, many homes features warm colored flooring (beige carpets, tan tiles, brown woods) which do not blend well with cool grays. In that case, you’ll want to pick a warmer tone such as Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige or even a mid-range “greige" such as Benjamin Moore Gray Owl.  

Ceilings and Trim

Painting a unique color on ceilings and trim is a fun way to personalize your home. But when it comes to selling, those areas need to be repainted white. All whites are not the same, though. For consistency’s sake, it’s best have a custom color match done from another white in your home. If that’s not possible, try Decorator’s White to blend with cool interiors or Simply White to highlight warm colors, both from Benjamin Moore. 

Exterior Colors

Curb appeal is the first impression that buyers have of your home, so you want it to be good. Check out other homes within your neighborhood to see which colors are most attractive for the area. Again, it’s often best to stick with a neutral color, such as Canvas Tan from Sherwin Williams. But because of our coastal locale, soft, beach-y colors such as Sherwin Williams Blue Horizon tend to sell well here too. 

 

So what happened to the two sellers mentioned above? Well, they both opted to repaint their homes in more buyer-friendly shades, and had offers within a week. An instant return on investment! 

If you’re planning to sell your home, contact our team at Coastal Life Properties. Because of our extensive local experience, we have our finger on the pulse of what’s selling in Brevard County. We’re always ready to help with ideas to highlight your home’s best features!

Oct. 15, 2018

Attracting Home Buyers in a Virtual Marketplace

Back in the ’80s, buyers typically searched for homes by browsing newspaper listings and “asking around”. Not any more. Today’s buyers are used to the instant information of websites and apps, and they expect the home buying experience to be no different. 

According to the National Association of Realtors, 99% of Millennials (who make up a majority of first time home buyers) utilized online listings as a part of their home search. More than half of the time, an online search is the first step buyers of all ages take in their purchasing process, even before contacting a realtor or lender.  

When placing your home on the market, your realtor should be ready to optimize its position in the virtual marketplace. Here are four strategies that you can expect. 

 

High Quality Photos 

Because buyers are searching for homes online, first impressions of a property are usually made without even setting foot inside. When the time comes to sell your home, your realtor will likely take high quality images of both the interior and the exterior of your home so that buyers’ initial glimpses of your spaces are flawless. Some realtors will even recommend using drones to capture aerial views of your property, especially if there are special features such as water frontage or large acreage. You can help your realtor in this all-important sales strategy by decluttering all interior spaces, sprucing up the landscaping, and de-personalizing wall hangings (take down family photos and children’s names) before the photos are taken.  

 

Detailed Information

If the photos of a home look good, buyers will then typically scroll down to read more details about the property, much like you would before making a purchase on Amazon. Your realtor will want to provide virtual prospects with information on your home’s best features, your neighborhood’s appeal, and any other significant selling points. Before your listing goes live, make sure to communicate important details with your agent. New appliances, recent upgrades, or costly maintenance procedures that have been performed (such as roof replacement, septic pumping, or pool resurfacing) are all huge selling points in the virtual marketplace, so be sure to let your realtor know about them.

 

Virtual Tour 

Some realtors like to market homes using virtual tours. These tours can come in the form of slideshows, video footage, and even interactive floor plans. Data indicates that 50% of buyers use and appreciate virtual tours.

If your neighborhood is saturated with homes for sale, your realtor may recommend using a virtual tour strategy to add to the appeal of your listing. If this is the case, you may need to provide floor plans or be available for additional filming. Just be patient and trust that your realtor has your home’s best interest in mind. 

 

Social Media

Once a listing goes live, your realtor will likely share the link on professional social media pages to increase the online traffic. This helps to target local buyers who may just be casually looking and forgoes weeding through the national "big box" sites. If you’re active on social media, be sure to share those links as well. Word of mouth is still a powerful tool in the virtual marketplace, after all!

Our team at Coastal Life Realty is dedicated to keeping our finger on the pulse of real estate sales trends. With the help of these general strategies PLUS the utilization of our top-ranked website, MerrittIslandCocoaBeachHomes.com, we can help you navigate the virtual marketplace with excellence, whether you’re selling or buying. Give us a call or send us an e-mail today!

Posted in Preparing to Sell