NEW FLORIDA RESIDENT BLOG

Welcome to Florida. I like to introduce new places or issues to brand new Floridians in this blog.  The youtube video below, is a great update on a new construction waterfront neighborhood and recent value updates. © John Gaudiano My Website

Welcome to Florida. The confusing part for some visitors is the concept of Florida Keys.  These small coastal islands protect the mainland of Florida and also run in a chain off the southern tip of the state (terminating in Key West).  There is also the area known as 10,000 islands which is more of a marsh and a place the Calusa's withdrew to during their battles with the Spanish.  ( I know everyone hates history, sorry).  In Sarasota, folks are familiar with Siesta Key and it's fabulous beach, but two islands north is Long Boat Key.  A mix of single family homes and grand beach condominiums.  The newest condos there are stating in the millions and single family Canal home are $700,000+ (unless you are looking for a project) .  In fact, with the rise in prices across the Suncoast, Long Boat Key is probably perfectly situated to enjoy any and all appreciation. And it's also a great place to watch the sun set ;-) Video Tours © John Gaudiano

Welcome to Florida. Many times people will be put off condos for a variety of reasons but perhaps the most cited is the lack of ability to increase it’s size.   Especially if it’s a condominium built in the 1970’s or 1960’s - size can be a real problem.    Author’s note: if you out rule condos in Florida you have probably eliminated about half of your living situations or essentially limited your potential happiness by 50%. And if you want to live on the beach for under $1million, condos really need to be explored.   I recently saw a tremendouse master bedroom in an older unit that was made gigantic because the owners removed the wall to the bathroom.   Whem I first heard about this I cringed……..and then I saw the finished project!   Who wants to revisit a few 1970 era condos on Siesta Key now? New Video Tours   Home Search Tools   © John Gaudiano

Welcome to Florida. In this blog, I typically give home advice to new Florida residents, as they assimilate into our republic.  'All water has alligators, manatees can be aggressive, flat roof homes can be fun.'  That sort of thing.  But, I recently listed a home for sale and the owner herself, indicated that the place was in some disrepair and would not photograph well. What's a Realtor to do?  If there are budgetary constraints a solid cleaning inside and out is the bare minimum you can do.  I recommend it for any home I sell.  However, sometimes even that is not possible for folks.  So, I try to find a way to write a clever description of the property.....   ...and sometimes I park a Mercedes in the driveway. My Website My Video Tours © John Gaudiano