Figures, Numbers, Data-- Orange Park Real Estate

This is a chart showing the median numbers for active listings, listings as they drop their price and enter into contract, and the final sold pricing.  This data is for all of the greater Jacksonville area, and as such, cannot be indicative for a specific area.

Starting our year, and throughout our year, the initial listing price is high.  Key to remember is that it's easier to go down in price than the reverse.  Next is the light brown line.  This line tells us that early in the year sellers had hopes of receiving more than the market would allow.  The second half of the year the seller line lowers slightly and we can notice the selling price and that last price reduction become a little more in sync.

The black line is what the buyers are saying.  That our market is lower than expected, and the appraisal (perhaps) of these properties-- if lending is required-- was not in sync, but would become closer over time.

As we look to the New Year we can be certain of only one figure.  That real estate (in Orange Park) is ever changing these days.  And, as such buyers and seller need a Realtor more than ever.

Happy New Year!  And God bless---

Orange Park Florida and New Homes...

There are 37 new homes on market in Orange Park Florida.  Some are large, some are small, all are waiting for their new owner(s).  A few hints regarding the purchase of a new home...

Use your own Realtor (me).  Using your own Realtor ensures you will not have to manage a high -pressure-builder-paid-agent.  The selling company or party will pay for your Realtor's commission.  Your own agent will represent you, not the builder or any other party, your own agent will represent your interest---and your interest only.  Your personal Realtor will also arrange mid and post construction inspections.

Use your own lender.  At times the builder will want you to use their lender.  Their lender will give you a good deal, but will also inform the builder about any changes in your economics.  Shop for a lender that you want.  A lender that will work with you and any circumstances you may have.  Interview your lender and get to know him or her.  Your lender is important, know your lender.

Know your agreement.  Purchase and sales agreements are a funny thing.  They can slant toward a buyer, or a seller.  The agreement can slant toward whichever party controls the first step.  Know your agreement, and know that your personal agent will negotiate to your best interests.  Know the cancellation rights.

Hire a home inspector.  Mid and post construction.  Mid-construction is important to find any issues with walls, floors, and such.  Post-construction is very important to make certain all is constructed well and with safety in mind...

There are new properties on market currently-- call me today to find out more!

Our Vet In Orange Park Florida

Orange Park Florida, located in the heart of Clay County is home to many fun and interesting stores.  One place, that I do not view as a store, but is worthy of mention is All Animal Clinic.  Located on Blanding Blvd, just past Clay Electric and Academy Sports, All Animal Clinic is more than a animal clinic.

It is the location our newest (and possibly more incorrigible) pet has come from.  But first let me back up and explain how we came to know this clinic.

Pet ownership is great.  Owning a pet, when done correctly, can teach children love, responsibility, obedience, and how to place another warm blooded being above themselves (can teach adults this as well).  So, when we embarked to get a dog... well, we took two home.  Chloe and Max.  All was well with our little GoldenDoodles until little Max could not walk well.  We took him to All Animal and shortly thereafter he was having surgery to correct a malformed front shoulder joint.

The care and comfort they provided him is what I remember most.  Long forgotten is walking him every couple hours, the way he wanted to play, etc. 

When we received our cat, Miley, from my daughter's fourth grade teacher (yes, blackmail was in the works---okay, that is supposed to be funny), we went and had her checked out at All Animal Clinic.  And they did a great job of keeping her from clawing the life out of me!

So, my point.  This past week we decided to adopt another kitten.  I called to All Animal to see if they knew of any, and sure enough--they had a few in the clinic.  They had them housed in a kennel-type cage up front.  Each had been either spayed or neutered at no cost to the adoptive owners, each had a name, and each had been loved.  We know this because little Hummer, whom we took home, is extraordinarily friendly and likes to find one of his people to sleep on.  He has been forthright and friendly with our other animals, and is eating (and littering) well.

All a sign of great care!  When looking for a vet in Orange Park Florida please keep All Animal Clinic at the top of your list---

Max--Just after surgery....

We do, and it's been a great experience!           

Gyms In Orange Park Florida---Just In Case Exercise Is In Your Future!

In Orange Park Florida there are a few great choices for your exercise routine.  Depending on your sport, if you need childcare, and distance from your desired home you will have many options. 

If interested in a 'plain jane' but extremely clean gym--head for Planet Fitness.  My personal gym.  Planet Fitness offers trainers, a dedicated circuit area, and many cardio options.  With multiple sets of weight machines, and plenty free weights, Planet Fitness does not disappoint.  And yes, cleanliness is a premium in this space with daily floor, locker room, and equipment cleanings (even the walls--I was AMAZED!)  Planet Fitness is open 24/5 and during the day Saturday and Sunday.

Baileys Powerhouse is a local favorite.  In Orange Park Florida you will find it's new location on Blanding, across from Academy Sports.  Baileys is known for it's great service, group classes, and professional training.  Baileys is also, depending on the type of membership, available 24-hours.  Baileys is a great choice for those interested in body-building, group classes, and a clean environment.

Lifestyle Family Fitness.  Lifestyle is an all encompassing gym experience with machines, free weights, and a track for those who want the cardio experience without the 'going no-where' experience.  Lifestyle (and Planet Fitness) offer tanning as a part of some memberships.  Lifestyle also offers a swimming pool, and some offer childcare. 

Dye-Clay YMCA.  The Dye-Clay YMCA offers childcare, a wide array of group classes, machines and free weights.  The YMCA offers a full length pool and many sport teams for kids of all ages.  The local YMCA is a great place to go for exercise if you want something for everyone in the family.

Bottom line.  We know exercise is important for a long and healthy life.  It is important to find a gym you feel comfortable and can ask questions of those in charge.



Jacksonville Florida, April 8th 2011--One Perfect Day!

Jacksonville Florida is b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l today!   After a short drive to the beach (from Orange Park Florida) we arrived at the beach house.  The family played in the waves, I searched homes online, and all is good in the world!

Whether you are looking for your new place to be on the beach, slightly inland, or simply want acreage over water you will never be more than about an hour away from the waves.  And hours of FREE entertainment!

The beauty of Jacksonville Florida is that there are multiple roads to take to get to the beaches.  And beaches we have!

Best to you, and your group, and our beaches!

So, what can we say about money?  And how shall we tie it to Jacksonville FL?  Let me lay this out-- a non-REO, short sale, or severely damaged home in the general Jacksonville Florida area will run about $200,000
What that means is that your search should start at $150,000 and go to about $210,000.  Or to whatever amount you qualify for.  Note the qualify.  Before beginning a home search one should always visit and get to know a home loan person.  Preferably with a well known lender--one that other lenders and companies will recognize.  Are you with me, that part is important.
Once you have in hand that pre-approval letter, which these days may cost the amount of a credit pull, you are ready to GO!  Call your Realtor (me, at 904-238-6559) and pull up your MLS Portal Account, then meet with me, and let's view some homes!

This is where money comes in:  how much more does it cost, if you are approved at 210,000 to go to 220,000?  At let's say 6% interest.  $60.00 per month generally speaking, not always, but in general.  And how much more house does it buy...it can buy quite a bit, and sometimes not so much.
So as you are searching please make sure you are within your mortgage comfort zone, but also note the changes in just a little higher and lower.  They can make quite a difference in quality of life, without the impact in wallet.

Remember, talk to your mortgage broker-- they can best explain how a mortgage works and how to leverage your buying power!

Jacksonville Florida Real Estate is Number Six on Cheaper to Own and Rent

"Jacksonville Among Top 10 Cities Where Cheaper To Buy Than Rent
It's cheaper to buy a home rather than rent one in 72 percent of the 50 largest U.S. cities, according to Trulia's rent vs. buy index, which compares the total cost of homeownership to the cost of renting. "Since the start of the 'Great Recession,' many former homeowners have flooded the rental market," Pete Flint, CEO of Trulia, said in a news release about the index. "Following the principles of supply and demand, renting has become relatively more expensive than buying in most markets." The index compares the median sales price of homes with the median rent on two bedroom apartments, condos, and townhomes that were listed on Trulia as of Jan. 10, 2011. Here are the top 10 cities where it's best to buy than rent, according to the index:
1. Miami
2. Las Vegas
3. Arlington, Texas
4. Mesa, Ariz.
5. Phoenix, Ariz.
6. Jacksonville, Fla.
7. Sacramento, Calif.
8. San Antonio, Texas
9. Fresno, Calif.
10. El Paso, Texas

Source: "Cheaper to buy than to rent in 72 percent of largest U.S. cities," Inman News (Jan. 24, 2011)"  Christa's source:  www.nefar.com

Confirming what I've known, having lived far and wide across our gorgeous United States.  It is less expensive to own than rent.  But it is also comparing apples to oranges... there are long term benefits to owning and this is certainly the time to buy.  Similar to a 'perfect storm' there are great mortgage rates right now (and yes, they will go up)  and nice low pricing to homes-- creating the 'buyer market'.

So, Jacksonville FL is number six on the list above!  And that would be for our surrounding areas as well.  Give me a call today--and let's explore how buying a home can be the right choice for you!

Buying (and Selling) Jacksonville FL Foreclosures

Are you a buyer in the greater Jacksonville FL area?  And have you been searching for real estate online?  Have you looked at foreclosures, short sales, and the seller owned.  Have you noticed that there is a fascination with foreclosures.

And then, have you been watching the winter sports?  There is a morbid facination that grabs our attention as the skater falls.  The snowboarders run is not quite so clean.  The skier who is grabbed by the mountain and tossed in the air.  I have been watching these events, and though I celebrate the success of those who have success, I also will stop what I am doing and watch any  disaster.
Then talk about the 'oh my gosh' moment that it is---

Sort of like walking into a foreclosure and seeing the remains of a home left behind.  The walls that need to be painted.  The carpet that needs to be cleaned.  On occasion the fixtures that will need to be replaced, and of course the reminder to the buyer that they should check for all the parts that make the air conditioner function.  It is in this fascination of 'getting a deal' that grabs our attention as we view the remains of another's fall.

It is that 'oh my gosh' moment as you view the green pool with the wood structure and chicken wire so that all things will not get in the muck.
Are you a buyer in the greater Jacksonville FL area, and are you ready to watch sporting events from the luxury of your own, new to you, living room.  If you are--I am your Realtor, and I am happy to show you the short sale, foreclosure, and the seller owned.

Buying a Home In Jacksonville--minus the mistakes!

In Jacksonville FL these are the mistakes I am finding most common.  This reflects Jacksonville FL and the greater surrounding area(s).

• Someone else buys the house.  We search, we view, you ponder.  I understand the need to ponder.  I completely understand that you may not want to make a quick decision, but in this market you really need to, or you may miss your home.  I have seen this happen all to many times.  And we are both discouraged.  Moral:  if you see a house you like, offer.  I'll be ready, you should be as well.
• Your agent matters.  Ask questions.  How savvy at negotiating is your agent?  Is your agent willing to work around your schedule?  Will they be there during the entire process.  Will they be there for the inspections.  What are they expectations they have, and you have, and do they match.  Is your agent determined to have high volume or high satisfaction, or both.  And if both, do they have a team in play.
• The net number.  The offer needs to be appealing to the seller and the net number needs to be the best it can be.  How does your agent gauge what is or is not a good offer.  How do they help you get that home.  What will they do to make it work.  Is your agent about the money, or your experience, or both--which is completely okay as we are professionals and need to make sure our bottom line is met (hopefully exceeded) but not at your expense.  Find out--it matters.
• Know your lender.  Ask questions.  Know what is offered, and what is not.  What is your interest rate, and when does your rate lock expire.  Do you qualify for any programs or assistance.  How often do they miss closing dates, and why.  Set expectations up front so you will not be disappointed.  And, make sure they do the FHA 203k program, just in case....
• Think resale.  I know.  You are just moving in--why think about that?  I once bought a home, in Port Orchard Washington.  We stayed there exactly 14 months and then sold that house.  Profit--yes.  And we used the same agent.  She knew the house inside and out, and saw some improvements (fence, sod).  She sold it the first week, and it was good.  But, we had not considered resale.  If the average is 5 years with each home, then think ahead!

Homes are getting snapped up right and left in this market here in Jacksonville Florida.  It is an unusual market, and the foreclosures increase each day.  There is an increasing number of seller owned and they are coming on at reasonable pricing--my thought is so they will make the tax incentive with a move up!  Either way there is not a need to look at 20 homes any longer, we can do that online.  There is a need to keep moving in the process and to execute the offer as you find a home that works for you!

Great Reasons to Buy a Home in Jacksonville FL

There are some great reasons to buy a home!  First and foremost, if you have a family similar to mine, the best reason is a place to eat, sleep, and neglect homework!  But seriously, there are some great reasons to own a home in Jacksonville Florida, and here are just a few:

• Community.  Become a part of something bigger than yourself.  Arlington is a perfect example.  This older city is in the process of revitalization and many of the residents there are digging in and changing the environment for the better.  Community--key to the purchase, and something to choose carefully.
• Tax breaks.  I know!  Who knew:)  The interest you pay on a mortgage, the taxes, and some of the costs involved are deductible.  Which is amazing!  Then, if you do improvements that are in line with Federal Tax deductions you can deduct those as well.  Good stuff.
• Equity.  Money spent on rent is money, as my dad used to say, flushed.  However, despite the current economic condition it is possible to have equity in a home.  Example:  you decide to buy that cute little fixer-up foreclosure.  And as you add some paint, you (and your friend the Realtor) are amazed to find out that it has greater value--equity.  Typically speaking the house should gain equity along a nice slow sloping upward trend over great lengths of time.  Not quick spikes.  Think long term, not short!
• Stability.  We are a retired military family.  My eldest son has moved (we think) approximately 9 times in his 19 years.  Twice in Kindergarten, once in 3rd grade, once in 5th (I think), and multiple times before turning 5.  Remaining in one home gives a family, a person, a group, stability.  You know your neighbors, have a favorite dry-cleaner, develop lasting friendships.  Good stuff!
• Fixed expenses.  Rent goes up.  Taxes can go up (you vote on these, perhaps).  Insurance can go up, and you have the choice to change companies.  Your payment however, now that is an unchanging item.  You should always have a set interest rate, and that monthly payment will not decrease or increase--the mortgage part.  Fixed housing expense--good stuff!
• Savings.  Take it from one who knows--your investment in real estate is a savings plan in disguise.  Who knew?  The most brilliant minds in business invest in real estate.  Some in big ways, and others in little way, but all do--or are working to do so. 
• Freedom!  Yes, paint that wall blue, or purple, or green.  Please, choose shag carpet, or berber, or hardwood.  Sure, hang that picture Aunt Somebody painted for you....after all, it's yours!  All yours.  Live your life how you choose, from the interior of your own home!  Freedom, and it is good.

As you begin to search for your dream home remember the following:  narrow down the musts, wants, and do not wants.  Then remember to view the neighborhood.  I prefer viewing neighborhoods on Sunday afternoons, Friday nights, and after school is out.  And please, please, please keep in mind that your Realtor is educated in the art of listening and assisting you in finding your first or next home!

Your Guide to Jacksonville FL--Christa LaFarlette, Realtor at Your Choice Real Estate

Let me be your guide--as you search for a new home in the greater Jacksonville Florida area(s)---

* As a knowledgeable Realtor I can save you endless amounts of time and frustration
* As a knowledgeable Realtor I know the housing market inside and out and can help you avoid the 'wild goose chase'.
* As a knowledgeable Realtor I can help you with any home, even if it is listed elsewhere or if it is being sold directly by the owner.
* As a knowledgeable Realtor I know the best lenders in the area and can help you understand the importance of being pre-approved for a mortgage. I can also discuss down payments, closing costs, and monthly payment options that may suit you.
* As a knowledgeable Realtor, I am an excellent source for both general and specific information about the community such as schools, churches, shopping, and transportation--plus tips on home inspections and pricing.
* As a knowledgeable Realtor I am experienced at presenting your offer to the seller(s) and can assist you through the process of negotiating the best price. I will bring objectivity to the buying transaction, and will point out the advantages and disadvantages of a particular property.

As a licensed real estate professional I provide much more than the service of helping you find your ideal home. Realtors are the expert negotiators with other agents, seasoned advisers with customers, and superb navigators around the local neighborhood. They are members of the National Association of Realtors and must abide by a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice enforced by NAR. A professional Realtor is your best resource when buying a home.

And the best thing about me as your Realtor is that all this help normally will not cost you a cent. Generally, the seller pays the commission to the Realtor!

I am sitting and reading my favorite paper, in my favorite Orange Park FL coffee house.  On the Week in Review page there is a wonderful headline:  "Quality Today-Success Tomorrow".  This is from the New York Times, and once a week I sit and relish the news from all over.

However, this struck me as very interesting.  It is an article about the Toyota situation, which I am happy to say our local Jacksonville FL Toyota dealerships have taken grasp of and forged ahead on.  Back to the article.  It states the following:

"Life, goes the cliche, is just high school writ large, and in the senior class of automakers, Toyota was the straight-A student who wrecked the curve for everyone......The performance didn't just make Toyota look great; it made rivals look daft......"  

and goes on to say that Detroit looked at their auto-makers and asked the proverbial 'why can't you be more like that!'

I want to be the Toyota of the Realtor world, without the faulty brake pedal of course.  I want to wreck the curve and give such exceptional customer service that they come back for more year after year!  I want to ensure that in the search for a home sweet home-my headline screams 'Quality Today-Success Tomorrow'!  I want my career to be a testimony to YOU, the buyer and seller, who needs my education, skill, care, and diligence to have a smooth transaction.

At the end of my career I want the epitaph to read:  served well.  enjoyed the ride.  had no rivals, only co-compatriots!  And yes, all lower case! 

And, as a buyer, isn't that what you want?  An agent that wants to be so amazing that your goals and wants come first?

It's getting late here in Jacksonville, and it is time to relax and stop for the day!  But before I do----a special thank you to my new 'future home owner' with whom I viewed homes with tonight!  Had a blast, and enjoyed spending time laughing and chatting wih you.  Good stuff----

We can all agree that it is a buyer's market here in Jacksonville FL.  However, with that we can also agree that the days of rock bottom $.50 on the dollar offers are gone--unless they are a short sale and the bank may negotiate that price.  So what is a buyer, who wants to land 'that' home to do?
Offer smart.
First and foremost pre-approve for a mortgage.  You will then be able to confirm to the seller that you actually will be able to purchase this home, and afford it.  You are serious.  You are in the game.  Aside from that, most if not all sellers are requesting it.  So before you search, pre-approve with a well known lender.
Open your email and look at all those listing links that you receive daily!  I know you think I send them, but no, they are automatic.  Look at them--I may not have time today, and if you like one or two CALL or email me.  We can go see it asap if it's a hot opportunity.  Stay in close contact and use your technology 'tools'.
Ready, set, go.  Please be ready to pull the trigger when you find that house. Know what you do want, what is a show-breaker, and what is okay--sort of.  You know, figure out what you want so we don't waste our collective time looking at things that you are not going to be interested in.  Pool-great, right it down.  2-car garage, okay-write it down.  And as you are writing it down I am as well--so, bottom line. Ready, set, go!
Highest and best.  We have heard this over and over.  'I want the steal'.  Yes, I understand.  However, if it is a property you really want then the offer needs to not offend the seller.  Always go in with your highest and best!  If your highest and best is $50k lower than the listings price, then so be it.  Be aware that you may offend the seller, and in the case of a short sale the lender may counter back.  Be ready to negotiate with both scenarios.  Or be ready to walk away--I too will be ready to walk away:)  In a tight market it is buyer beware--really.
The offer.  With your offer you do want to go easy on the contingencies without giving everything up.  Yes, keep the inspections in--they are important.  Yes, keep the timelines in--important.  Let's not be silly, and let's remember to protect you and your money.  After all buying a home is one of the largest purchases you will make in your lifetime.  Remember, although time is a concern, the greater concern is double checking and then triple checking your gut to make sure your decision is a good one!
Moving in.  Take it from one who has made this mistake--take off the wallpaper first.  If you are going to make big changes try to get them accomplished prior to your move.  Trust me--pink carpet and the wallpaper is just now coming down (thank you honey!)--5 years later.
Have a great night, and if you are interested in anything in Jacksonville FL please call or email me!  Hiring a buyer's agent is generally FREE for the buyer.

Jacksonville FL Real Estate--11258 Wyndham Hollow Lane, Jacksonville Florida

New on the market! Great home in Sutton Lakes-- call, view, offer, own. Call Christa today at 904-238-6559!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

What Do Jacksonville FL Real Estate and Technology Have In Common?

I am fairly high tech, but here in Jacksonville FL there is great potential.  When my husband and I were online searching for real estate, for our first home bought together, we were certainly not thinking about our technology needs (after working through wireless issues today, I wish we had).
So the question is how high tech are you.  And how high tech will you need your new abode to be.  My bottom line is 3 prong, up to date, wall outlets.  But for some that is not a requirement.  Let's review what is basic, extra, and potential fluff.
Basic:  Are there enough telephone jacks.  Are there enough outlets.  Are they in the right rooms, and are they where you may need them.  Think about the kitchen space and if there are enough outlets in there where they will be needed.
Extra:  These can be a basic for some.  Is the home pre-wired for sound, and is the sound the same in each room or different.  Are the speakers in-wall or added.  Is there a network for linking computers.  Does your home search need to include wiring for DSL and other high-speed Internet connections.  Is the heat and air zoned.  Does each room have the ability to function independently for energy efficiency.  Do the lighting controls make sense for the lighting.  Central vac--my favorite, is it important to you.  Is the wiring in the walls, and if so can it be updated as technology changes.  Will the window coverings work for you.  Is there automated anything that is extra and does it work for you.
Potential fluff:  There is not fluff in homes when you talk technology.  It was a trick option----
Each home is unique and different when it has a new owner.  Each owner brings a new perspective to the property.  Each owner will paint, change, renew.  And each owner has different requirements for technology.  So, again, what is yours.
P.S.---Need a home with a media room?  No sweat!  I can find it, and show it, throughout the Jacksonville FL area!

Jacksonville FL Open Homes for Week of: Jan7-10/ 2011

Remember, an Open House is your time to view homes in a relaxed and casual manner. There should be no pressure, no hassle.

Also, remember, as a Realtor I can show all homes in the greater Jacksonville/Clay County area-- and it would be my pleasure to assist you with your real estate goals!
Take care, drive carefully, and make sure to let the other Realtors know that 'Christa sent me'!



*these listings are not represented by the Realtor hosting this website.

Part II: Know Your Agent In Jacksonville FL

I know--what is agency, and why do you need to know.  Here in Florida, and in my area--Jacksonville Florida agency reflects what you can expect from your agent.  There are three types, and you should know the difference as they will effect (possibly) your purchase.

• In the State of Florida it is presumed that all agents are operating as transaction brokers.  You, as a buyer, can safely assume this unless the agent gives you the option of single agent or no brokerage.  To take either of those options there is a form, and it must be in writing.

1. Transaction Broker Relationship.  This is a type of limited representation to buyer, seller, or both.  Neither party is in a fiduciary relationship (your agent cannot make a decision for you).  The following is the responsibilities:
   • Dealing honestly and fairly-- the agent must be both honest and fair to both buyer and seller.
   • Accounting for all funds -- keep track of all monies received, billed, etc. 
   • Using skill, care, and diligence within the transaction-- your agent needs to make sure they are acting appropriately and as required by Florida law.
   • Disclosing all known facts that materially affect the value of the property and are not readily observable to the buyer--if we see what can be a roof issue that you may not notice, we need to mention it.  Bottom line.
   • Presenting all offers/counter offers in a timely manner, unless a party has previously directed the agent otherwise, in writing--timely manner is generally 24-48 hours, depending on your agent.  Ask them to get a better idea.
   • Limited confidentiality.  This limited confidentiality means that I will not tell you what the seller MAY take if I represent you both, but rather will encourage you to offer what you feel is the best offer possible.  Same the reverse, your agent should not tell the seller that you can afford more/less but rather discuss the offer and how it benefits them.  In the middle--limited confidentiality.
   • Any additional duties that are mutually agreed upon.
2. Single Agent Relationship.  This is a fiduciary relationship defined as below:
   • Dealing honestly and fairly.  (see above)
   • Loyalty.  This person is for your interests only.  As such you can expect them to work for you directly. 
   • Confidentiality.  This agent is your agent and does not represent the other side at all.  You have a high confidentiality rating.
   • Obedience.  The single agent will be doing exactly what you direct them to do.  Obedience is exactly that--carrying out your wishes.
   • Full disclosure.  You will know everything, and this agent has a responsibility to make sure that they disclose all facts in full.
   • Accounting for all funds.  This is a fiduciary relationship.
   • Skill, care, and diligence.  (see above)
   • Presenting all offers, counteroffers in a timely manner unless directed in writing to do otherwise.
   • Disclosing all known facts materially affecting the value of the property and that is not readily observable.
3. NO brokerage relationship.
   • This is an agent that has no relationship to you but will act as your agent for the transaction.
   • Dealing honestly and fairly
   • Accounting for all funds entrusted to the agent
   • Disclosing all known facts materially affecting the value of the property and that is not readily observable.

As a transaction broker I have the responsibility to make sure both sides have limited confidentiality.  In Florida the brokerage relationship needs to be disclosed before entering into any type of transaction.  If the type of agency is not brought up then it can be assumed that the form by that agent is transaction!
It is my greatest hope that as you begin your search for a new, or next home that this information will provide greater insight and education.  And, if confusing please call or email. I am happy to chat about real estate all day, and would welcome the opportunity!

Christa, Your Agent For Life!

Know Your Jacksonville FL Agent---Christa LaFarlette!

Your Jacksonville Fl real estate agent.  Often the thought of calling, or meeting, with an 'agent' or 'salesperson' can bring discomfort.  Let's be honest!  Who wants a high pressure moment when dealing with one of the most important (and largest) purchase you may make in this lifetime!

Not the buyer's I work with.  They tend to be looking for the following, which happens to be in line with my moral compass:

Everyone wins:  A deal is only a deal when it's a 'win' for all.  My goal is the overall 'win' for my customer!

• Integrity:  In all things make the right decision and choice. 
• Teamwork:  Together we achieve more.
• Communication:  Listen, listen, listen.  Seek first to understand.
• Trust:  Honesty.  Trust begins with honesty.
• Creativity:  Thinking 'outside the box' for all results and solutions.
• Commitment:  In all things commit!

Together, in combination of the above, we can have great success in finding your first or next home!