The Home Remodeling Guide

Avoiding Bad Decisions and Costly Errors

Home renovations are one of those undertakings where you can expect the result to be much more satisfying than the process of obtaining said result. Organizing a remodel is hard work – you have to stay on your toes, be involved, and plan things out carefully to avoid problems like missed deadlines, overspending, poor-quality remodels, and absentee contractors. To help you avoid bad decisions and costly errors, Agi Anderson with Brevard County Real Estate Services offers this mini-guide on what to expect from your planned project.

Are You Sure About Your Planned Renovations?

First, ask yourself if you truly need all the renovations you’re planning. For instance, a swimming pool may sound like a dream come true, but it requires serious ongoing maintenance. It also has several other drawbacks and, arguably, only makes sense if you’re going to regularly use it. Making a list of must-have renovations and good-to-have ones could help you avoid something that’s a burden long-term.  

Estimate Costs First and Budget Accordingly

Renovations can be incredibly expensive. According to NextAdvisor, a small whole house remodel could cost up to $45,000, and major ones $76,000 and up. To avoid a bill shock at the end, you should estimate costs first. Budgeting and creating an emergency fund can help. 

Also, consider which projects are most important to complete. For instance, a kitchen remodel often brings a bigger ROI (return on investment) than other projects. So keep your end goals in mind as you plan. To keep costs down, choose fixed-rate contractors, avoid add-ons, get your planned upgrades in writing, and require changes to be approved.  

Keep Digital Records of Expenses

Setting up your budget is a great time to also establish a digital filing system to keep track of your renovations. Save or convert your files to PDFs and then group them together in a way that makes sense to you. It could be by project time (i.e. kitchen reno) or contractor, etc. Then, you may consider this option: it’s a free tool that allows you to easily combine related documents so that they are easier to find. Many have drag and drop functionality, which makes it incredibly simple to stay organized. 

Make Sure Your Contractor is Capable and Trustworthy 

Your contractor’s work experience, work ethic, and skill set will determine the success or failure of your project. There are bad contractors out there who will overcharge, not keep to deadlines, do shoddy work, and generally let you down in various ways. Good contractors, needless to say, will do good work. Moreover, they should be able to assist you with everything, from the design and acquiring permits to setting schedules and cleaning up.

Don’t Assume Your Contractor Can Read Your Mind 

Even when you team up with professionals, it’s crucial that you communicate your expectations clearly from the outset and focus on building a solid working relationship with them. Most contractors will be happy to work with you to bring your vision to life – but it will require active input and direction from your end. 

Understand that Remodels Take Time  

Remodeling your home can take longer than you expect. Minor modifications can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Major modifications can take several months or over a year to complete. Then there’s the unpredictability factor – your remodel may not go to plan, which could push back the completion date further. 

Where Will You Stay When the Renovations are Happening? 

If you’re remodeling your current home, you have to choices: move elsewhere or continue staying until the renovation work is complete. With the former option, investing in a smart lock or number lock will save you countless trips to let workers inside. If you choose the latter option, you (and your family) will have to deal with noise and disturbances. You may need to section off a living area, put your valuables in storage, and cover your larger possessions to avoid damage. 

Make Sure Your Home Office Upgrade Makes You Productive 

When you’re making new upgrades, it’s a good idea to consider their impact on your overall health and comfort. If the upgrade is functional, make sure it works as intended. For instance, your home office may not necessarily make you more productive unless you design the space for productivity. You could locate the office near natural light, a known productivity enhancer, or invest in overhead lighting. Other ideas are painting the walls in bright colors and bringing in the outdoors. 

Should You Get a Home Warranty after Renovating Your Home?

Home warranties are annual renewable contracts that cover home systems and appliance breakdowns. Common use scenarios are damages to heating, cooling, electrical, and plumbing systems, and appliance repairs. If your house (and everything in it) is getting on in the years, a home warranty could help you save money, instantly put you in touch with a reliable handyman, and offer peace of mind. Looking for the best home warranty company will bring you the most benefits. 

Make a Plan for a Successful Remodel 

Carefully planning your home remodel, whether you’re getting a new kitchen or a home office, will help you save time and money. Getting a home warranty afterward could be a worthwhile investment if you’d like to get more mileage out of your home systems and appliances. Last but not least, work with professionals to avoid problems, delays, and overshot budgets! 

If you’re looking for a home to renovate or want to sell your property once it has been upgraded, contact Agi Anderson with Brevard County Real Estate Services!

Guest Post by, Mike Longsdon with Elder Freedom

For many home buyers, purchasing a coastal waterfront home or condo is one of the most exciting experiences they’ll ever encounter. Buying a waterfront home is as much about a coastal living lifestyle, as it is wisely investing in real estate. 

These properties are often coveted in most desired and refined areas on the Brevard FL Space Coast. Often times, waterfront homes come with a hefty price tag if their located on a popular beach, canal or river for deep water boating. It’s without question, one of the biggest investments a homeowner will ever make.

The Weekly Feature is …

Coastal Home Choices on the Space Coast

According to Southern Living Magazine, “Coastal is not just a unique geographical place,  decorating style, or type of food. For the stylish tastemaker, it provides the best  seaside spots to shop, dine, and explore. For the active family, it serves as  inspiration for annual summer traditions, personal collections, and casual  celebrations.

And for the empty-nesters, it offers a link to the friendly

charm of  small-town life and the unforgettable joys of taking the trip of a lifetime, every  year. Coastal is a state of mind, an escape to the good life—to be enjoyed  barefoot, of course.”

The Space Coast is a Coastal County with water ways that stretch 72 miles long from Grant to Mims. Our version of coastal life is living on or near the water.

Oceanfront Homes

The Weekly Feature begins with oceanfront homes. Coastal Life Properties has an amazing oceanfront home in Cocoa Beach, FL, that just went under contract. It truly is the epitome of coastal living inside and out. You can take a look at all the photos on the above link.

       Oceanfront Homes Active for Sale on the Brevard Florida Space Coast                                 

Riverfront Coastal Homes

Riverfront coastal homes come with the built-in benefit of backing up to a tranquil, natural setting. In Brevard County FL, homes along the Banana and Indian Rivers offer beautiful expansive views, glorious sunsets and access to the ocean via the locks from the Intracoastal waterway.

There are only so many places in the country where you can wake up and enjoy a cup of coffee and see dolphins and manatees swimming in your backyard. Along with wildlife sightings and spectacular sunrises, residents enjoy fishing and boating as well as proximity to the beach, without having to go far. Boaters need to be aware of bridges and shallow water areas and must adhere to no wake zones.

Our feature riverfront coastal home, listed with Coastal Life Properties, LLC, is located on Newfound Harbor, on Merritt Island, FL. 

Active Riverfront Homes for Sale

Active Riverfront Condos for Sale

 Canalfront Coastal Living

One of the most striking appeals of living in a canal home is the easy access to waterways. From fishing to kayaking to boating and everything in between, canal living offers endless opportunities for fun on the water. 

It also can cost you less money in the long run and help you avoid the high cost of storing a boat and trips to the marina. Imagine walking out your backdoor, hopping on the boat and heading out for a day on the water. This kind of ease is what makes canal coastal living so desirable. 

There are countless waterways on the Brevard Florida Space Coast. If you’re a boater who enjoys a day out on the ocean, you may want to consider canal homes on or near the Intracoastal waterway which are closer to the locks in Port Canaveral.  The no wake zones require boaters to idle at slow speeds. 

For many empty nesters, the thought of moving closer to their adult children is an increasingly attractive option. Not only does it allow for more quality time together, but it also provides a greater sense of security and peace of mind. However, making such a move can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. Here are some tips from Agi Anderson at Coastal Life Properties for those considering a move closer to their children.

Consider the Advantages of Relocating Near Loved Ones

As individuals grow older, proximity to their adult children provides a heightened sense of security that is essential to their well-being. In addition to emotional benefits, closer proximity to family members allows for more meaningful interactions and the strengthening of familial bonds. Moreover, residing near adult children may lead to substantial financial benefits through reduced living expenses such as taxes, utility bills, and healthcare costs.

Think About Selling Your House

Before you start the process of searching for a new home, you will need to sell your current one. This requires careful preparation and planning. You will want to ensure that your home looks its best when potential buyers come to visit. Consider hiring Agi Anderson to help you set the right price and prepare your home for sale.

Search for a New Home

When searching for a new home, it's crucial to carefully evaluate various factors. One should start by considering the location to ensure easy access to work, family, and social amenities such as parks and centers. The next step is examining the layout and size of the home, taking into account any special requirements. It's equally important to set a budget and to consider any potential future needs, such as medical care, in finding a suitable home and location.

Minimize Stress While Moving

To minimize the anxiety commonly associated with moving, start planning and organizing your move at the earliest opportunity. Break the process down into smaller, more achievable steps. Hire a professional moving company for support with more challenging tasks, and ask family members to assist you efficiently. Throughout the process, practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing and meditation to remain calm and composed.

Plan for Mishaps and Keep a Contingency Fund

Even the most well-organized moves can encounter unexpected issues, so it is important to be prepared. Keep a contingency fund set aside for any unexpected expenses that may arise, such as additional moving costs or home repairs. It is also a good idea to make sure that you have proper insurance coverage and legal support in the event of any unexpected issues.

Keep Important Documents Organized

When moving, take advantage of the opportunity to digitize and organize vital documents, such as financial and legal paperwork. Use PDF editors or scanners to convert hardcopy documents into digital format, allowing for easy storage and management. Additionally, consider using digital tools such as task management apps or online calendars that also provide options for you to delete PDF pages.

Factor in Health Insurance 

When moving to a new location, it is important to carefully consider your health insurance coverage. Make sure to check with your provider to ensure that they offer coverage in your new location and that your policy will cover any pre-existing medical conditions that you may have. It is also important to ensure that your new location has adequate medical services, such as hospitals or clinics, to meet your needs.

For empty nesters, moving closer to adult children can serve as a wonderful opportunity. By leveraging careful planning and preparation, the move can be relatively hassle-free. Therefore, follow the advice outlined above to ensure a successful and stress-free moving experience.

Guest Post by, Mike Longsdon with Elder Freedom

Swimming pools are so intriguing, people either love them or hate them. As I planned for this piece, I became curious about when the first in-ground pool was built in Florida. Who had the ingenious idea to have a giant hole dug, filled with who knows what, back then the didn’t use cement, then add thousands of gallons of water. I found a post (one time view and then pay) by Mike Lafferty with the Orlando Sentinel who confirmed, Debary Hall, in Volusia County had the first in-ground pool in Florida. 

Of the 7.3 million residences in Florida, including single-family homes and multi-family homes, about 1.1 million of them have pools. That's a whopping 15% of the Florida housing market that has in-ground pools, according too Google, May 2022. A pool can be a fun, attractive addition to a house and usually increases its value. But are the costs of installing and maintaining a pool worth it? Here are some things to consider before you take the plunge.

Adding a swimming pool to your home on the Space Coast

There are pros and cons of adding a swimming pool to your Brevard FL Florida home. First and foremost, there is the expense of actually building and installing a pool. According to Best Pools of Brevard, Inc the cost is $45k to add a basic 15x30 pool with an acrylic finish. Add another $10k for a screened enclosure, another $10k for a spa. Gulp! It’s pricey.

One of the biggest obstacles surrounding adding a pool to your existing home is the logistics. If you plan on building an in-ground pool, you have to not only find enough space for the size you want – but also make sure electrical, water, and septic aren't buried in the area. Sometimes there simply has to be some compromise involved in location and size when adding a pool to your existing home.

Does a pool add value to your home

Recent research suggests that adding an in-ground pool can boost your home’s worth by around 7 percent. But the cost of pool installation and ongoing maintenance expenses may outweigh the potential value increase. More

No doubt, there are quite a few pros and cons of trying to decide if getting a pool is right for your home and your lifestyle. From the added expense of installing it to the maintenance and upkeep of keeping it clean – as well as all the enjoyment of actually using it – there are many factors you’ll need to consider if you’re thinking about getting a pool for your Brevard FL home.

Can a pool add value, yes, but the value it adds, will not allow you to recoup the cost of installation and upkeep.

You may need to come to terms that enjoying a swimming pool with your family is priceless.

Enclosed Screened Pool vs No screen

The best feature of a screened enclosure is that it provides security both from dirt (insects, dust, and debris like fallen leaves) and unwanted visitors (snakes, uninvited guests, birds and of course alligators!).

A screened enclosure also keeps bugs, insects, bees and all other tiny animals off your pool. And if you have an open backyard, screened enclosures are a big help in keeping unwanted guests out of your pool area. Read More

Know the State Law

The Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (Chapter 515, Florida Statutes) requires pool safety measures for pools built after October 1, 2000. It is the intent of the Legislature that all new residential swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs be equipped with at least one pool safety feature. Download the Consumer Safety Brochure.

More on Residential Swimming Pool Safety 

1. A pool fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate—enclosing the pool and providing no direct access to it.
2. An approved pool cover which is fitted to your pool; a simple canvas covering can be a drowning hazard and can entrap a child in the water.
3. Alarms on all doors and windows leading out to the pool.
4. A self-closing, self-latching device on all doors that provide direct access from the home to the pool; the release mechanism must be no lower than 54 inches above the floor.

The Florida Department of Health recommends, at a minimum, using a combination of the barriers described above to help ensure your pool is equipped with approved safety features. More about Water Smart Florida

Community Neighborhood Pool

Benefits of Community Pool

Having a pool in your neighborhood pool offers a form of social interaction, for both children and adults. Children who swim at the neighborhood pool are able to make new friends and hone their social skills by spending time with other children their age, participating in a fun activity.

Adults are also able to gain social interaction by meeting new people and getting to know their neighborhoods. Meeting other adults with children who are close in age means that lasting friendships and relationship are being built and people are finding others to share their time with. Read More

Many of the newer communities on the Brevard FL Space Coast have a neighborhood pool in a recreation area with a park setting. While we all know a community pool is great for cooling off on a hot day, why else is the neighborhood pool simply the best? Check out a couple of the reasons to dip your toes in this summer:

It's good Exercise. Swimming is one of the only exercises that give you a full body workout without working up a sweat – literally. It targets the core, arms, legs, glutes, and back. The low-impact activity also works on flexibility, balance, endurance, and muscle strengthening, thanks to the resistance of the water.

According to WebMC, swimming is a good workout for everyone. If you’re pregnant or arthritic, the water’s buoyancy takes stress off joints. It’s also a good addition to workouts for those who have diabetes and/or high cholesterol because it promotes weight loss without inducing high blood pressure. 

It increases the value of your home with out trying to recoup the cost of a private pool. Aside from being a central location for family fun, a community can pool increase the value of your home. One of the biggest benefits to HOA-regulated communities is that they keep the neighborhood looking top-notch, but when it comes to what each home is worth, the community pool works in everyone’s favor.

Pool Homes for Sale in Brevard County FL

Single family homes private pool

There are 401 homes for sale with a private pool and 901 properties for sale with a community pool on the Brevard FL Space Coast. The MLS only allows up to 200 listings on a link so I broke up the listings by residential types and price ranges. 

There are 198 Single family homes for sale with private pool up to $900k 

There are 98 single family homes with priced $900k plus with a private pool 

Single family homes with community pool

There are 147 single family homes priced up to $500k with a community pool 

There are 77 single family homes with community pool priced $500k plus

Condos/Townhomes for sale on the Brevard FL Space Coast

There are 168 condos/townhomes priced up to $350k 

There are 198 condos/townhomes priced $350k to $800k 

There are 58 condos/towhomes for sale $800k plus 

The buyer agents in the Brevard FL Realtor Group are on standby ready to assist you with purchasing a pool home in Brevard County, FL. And me, I am the listing agent of the group, I am also standing by ready to help you sell your pool home whether it has a private pool or community pool.

It’s easy to call or text from ContactAgiNow.com or if you prefer old school 321-698-0021. 

ContactAgiNow.com ... If you're searching the Brevard FL Space Coast to purchase a pool home or want your pool home featured for sale at BrevardPoolHomes.com

The Brevard FL Realtor Group and I are excited to introduce Weekly Features. Each week we feature one topic, Monday - Friday.

Our "Weekly Features" begins with, Homeowner Info Brevard County FL. We cover important homeowner information that can be found at the Brevard County FL Tax Appraisers website. This week we will feature:

(1.) Filing a petition disputing exemptions and market Value, (2.) Changes to your property title,

(3.) Applying for homestead exemption online

(4.) Homestead Removal 

(5.) Limited Income Senior Exemptions

Value Adjustment Board

If a property owner does not agree with their set market value and or denial of emption, a petition must be filed at the Clerk of the Courts office during the taxable year on or before the 25^th day following the mailing of the notice by the property appraiser. More information

Changes to Your Property Title

If you made changes to the title of your property such as a change in marital status or put your homestead property in a trust or life estate in the last year, you must reapply for homestead exemption. State law requires that you reapply if your property’s title changed in any way. The deadline for applying for any exemption is March 1^st. More Information

Limited Income Senior Exemptions

Two Additional Homestead Exemptions for Persons 65 and Older

Some county or city governments have adopted local ordinances, under Section 6(d) of Article VII of the Florida Constitution, and section 196.075, Florida Statutes, allowing one or both of the additional homestead exemptions described below. Contact your local property appraiser for information on any ordinances passed in your county. These exemptions apply only to the tax millage a county or city levies when it adopts a local ordinance and do not apply to the millage of school districts or other taxing units:

• An exemption not exceeding $50,000 to any person who has the legal or equitable title to real estate, maintains permanent residence on the property, is 65 or older, and whose household income does not exceed the household income limitation; or

• An exemption equal to the assessed value of the property to an owner who has title to real estate in Florida with a just value less than $250,000, as determined in the first tax year that the owner applies and is eligible for the exemption, and who has maintained permanent residence on the property for at least 25 years, is 65 or older, and whose household income does not exceed the household income

For more information call the property appraisers office and speak with an exemption specialist.

Homestead Removal

Florida Law prescribes that it is the duty of the owner of any property to notify the property appraiser promptly whenever the use of the property or the status or condition of the owner changes so as to change the exempt status of the property.

If any property owner fails to so notify the property appraiser and the property appraiser determines that for any year within the prior 10 years the owner was not entitled to receive such exemption, the property shall be subject to the taxes exempted as a result of such failure, plus 15 percent interest per annum and a penalty of 50 percent of the taxes exempted,

Cracking Down on Homestead Fraud

In 2019, the Brevard County Appraisers office implemented a fraud detection suite developed by LexisNexis Risk Solutions. Read more

If you have vacated and are now renting your property,  you no longer qualify for homestead exemption. Only permanent residents are entitled to homestead exemption and you must submit a request to be removed.

You must submit a Home Removal Request Form to remove your homestead exemption.

Apply for Homestead Exemption online

Until recently, homeowners had to apply for homestead exemption at the property appraiser’s office. There were long lines and often missing documents. You can now apply online, however you need to be prepared. 

By Florida Law, you will be required to submit your Social Security number, driver's license number, date of birth, along with other information regarding your residency. If you do not wish to submit this information electronically, you may file in person on or before March 1st.

If more than one person will be filing for exemption, each applicant must file at this time. Each applicant must complete the interview process in one session, so be sure to have all your information gathered before you start.

There are also additional general exemptions available and the requirements to qualify.

This wraps up this week's feature about "need to know" information provided by the Brevard County Property Appraiser.

No matter the size of your yard, patio, or balcony, it's easy to create an outdoor oasis perfect for spending time with friends and family. Start by making a list of priorities for the space, then find ways to personalize it for your lifestyle.

Sometimes living large means thinking small. If your outdoor space lacks square footage, it might seem like your outdoor entertaining dreams are far-fetched—but with a bit of creative thinking, solid design advice, and clever additions, you can make the most of your yard. Read More

If you're buying a home on the Brevard FL Space Coast and the backyard is not as big as you wanted, these small backyard ideas may help.

Need Help? The Brevard FL Realtor, a team of specialized agents are on standby ready to help you.

Call / Text me, Agi Anderson, Team Leader
<-From my OnLine Biz Card (click image from mobile phone)

ContactAgiNow.com

Cast iron pipes are no longer favored as a material used in plumbing. This is because cast iron can easily corrode and rust over time, leading to discoloration of drinking water and a major decrease in water pressure throughout faucets and outlets. More

For homes built before 1975, it's highly recommended you obtain an inspection of the cast iron pipes.

Need help with buying a home on the Brevard FL Space Coast, we're here on standby ready to assist you.

Questions? Call / Text right from my OnLine Biz Card

Imagine an elderly woman leaving her long time home that she loves and transitioning to a life of the unknown.

I stood in front of my family home, tears streaming down my face. This house held so many memories, but it was time to say goodbye. My kids were grown, and the thought of maintaining such a big place was overwhelming. I was torn between wanting to keep the memories alive and wanting to start a new chapter in my life.

I was stuck, caught in the grip of an invisible monster that whispered doubts in my ear. "Who will buy this house? What if it doesn't sell? What if I can't afford to move?" These fears threatened to consume me, but I knew I had to face them head-on.

I felt lost and alone, until a glimmer of hope appeared. A Realtor came into my life, and she was the key to unlocking the door to my future. She was knowledgeable, confident, and reassuring. She listened to my worries and helped me turn them into actionable steps.

Together, we tackled the monster and defeated it. She walked me through the process of selling my home, and I was amazed at the smoothness of the journey. This Realtor took care of everything, from pricing and marketing to negotiations and closing. She took the weight of the world off my shoulders, and I was able to relax and enjoy the ride.

In the end, my family home was sold, and I was able to move on to the next chapter of my life with ease. This realtor became my ally, my friend, and my savior. I will never forget the gift she gave me: peace of mind and a brighter future.

Although this story is fabricated, it represents how many of our elderly seniors feel about making a transition from a home they have loved for decades to a life of many unknowns. Perhaps more preparation is needed, following are:

10 Ways How Seniors Can Overcome Fears About Selling Their Long Time Home 

1. Work with a real estate agent who specializes in senior transitions (I am an SRES*)

2. Seek professional advice from a financial planner or an elder law attorneyhttp;//ContactAgiNow.com

3. Make a list of their priorities and goals for the next chapter of life

4. Research options for new housing, such as 55+ communities or downsizing

5. Visit potential new homes and communities to get a feel for the new living situation

6. Create a timeline and a plan for the move to ensure a smooth transition

7. Connect with support networks, such as friends, family, or local groups

8. Organize belongings and declutter before the move

9. Consider selling unwanted items through an estate sale or online auction 

10. Consider getting a home equity conversion mortgage to supplement retirement income.

If you or a family member need assistance with helping a senior sell a home and locate a new place to live, my team and I are on standby ready to help. 

Call / Text me at

ContactAgiNow.com

I am happy to answer questions and provide guidance. I have been a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) for more than a decade.