Abbe Justus Real Estate - Living In Tallahassee

Amendment 5 on Florida's November 2024 ballot proposes to increase the homestead property tax exemption by adjusting its value annually to match inflation. This adjustment would benefit homeowners by allowing their property tax savings to keep pace with rising costs of living. The amendment is part of ongoing efforts to provide property tax relief, particularly for those who may be impacted by inflation. To pass, the amendment needs at least 60% approval from voters.

For more details, you can visit Florida Realtors.

Abbe Justus
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

🏠 Getting Ready to Sell Your Home? Here's Why Prep Matters!

1. First Impressions Count: Buyers form opinions within seconds. A well-prepped home with curb appeal attracts more interest.

2. Maximize Value: Fix minor issues, declutter, and stage your home. A little effort can lead to a higher sale price.

3. Smooth Transactions: Prepping reduces surprises during inspections and appraisals. It keeps the process moving smoothly.

Remember, a little prep goes a long way! 🌟

"Home is a shelter from storms - all sorts of storms."
--
William J. Bennett

Sometimes, I miss my graduate school days and reading the most recent research. So recently, I was on a mission. I recently interacted with an older home seller. He told me that he was hiring a male agent because they were better negotiators. That was not my experience, especially the one he mentioned. So, into the research, I dug. Here's what I found: (Spoiler: He was WRONG!)

The paper titled "S*x and Selling: Agent Gender and Bargaining Power in the Resale Housing Market" was published in 2022 in the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics. It explores how the gender of listing agents impacts the listing prices set and how long a property stays on the market. The researchers dug into the MLS data from Lynchburg, VA, from 1999-2009.

Properties handled by female agents tend to be larger and sell for higher prices. Homes listed by women also sell faster, although there isn’t a clear pattern regarding the gender of the agent representing the buyer.

There are some significant differences based on agent gender. For example, female agents often handle properties with different key features like the number of bathrooms, floors, and fireplaces. Interestingly, they tend to list fewer tenant-occupied or vacant properties, and they also work with fewer vacant properties when representing buyers.

In cases where a male agent is working as both the listing and selling agent (a dual agent), the property tends to sell at a discount and takes longer to sell than if a female agent were handling the transaction.

The study found that female agents usually have equal or stronger bargaining power when they're representing the buyer in a transaction rather than the seller. This is interesting because it challenges the initial belief that male agents have stronger bargaining power. In reality, male agents often show weaker bargaining power, especially when they're listing properties, no matter the gender of the other agent involved.

If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgeable Tallahassee listing agent, contact me. I can help.

Abbe Justus, MS
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

If money were no object... which home style would you choose?

🌟 Coosh’s Bayou Rouge: A Flavorful Journey! 🌟

They have the best cajun food in Tallahassee! Don't forget to try dessert!

📍 Location: 6267 Old Water Oak Rd #101, Tallahassee, FL 32312
📞 Phone: (850) 894-4110

Cajun Delights: Coosh’s serves up authentic bayou flavors. Their gumbo and jambalaya are a must-try! 🌶️🍤

Chill Vibes: Relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff. Perfect for a laid-back meal or gathering.

Seafood Galore: From crawfish to catfish, seafood lovers rejoice! 🦐🐟

Whether you’re a local or passing through, Coosh’s Bayou Rouge won’t disappoint! 🌞🎵🍽️

Abbe Justus
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

🏠 Staging Your Home for Sale: A Winning Strategy! 🏠

Ready to sell? Here's how to stage your home for maximum impact:

1. Declutter: Clear countertops, closets, and surfaces. Less is more!

2. Neutralize: Opt for neutral colors to appeal to a broader audience.

3. Furniture Placement: Arrange furniture to create flow and highlight room features.

4. Curb Appeal: First impressions matter! Spruce up the front yard and entryway.

5. Lighting: Brighten up! Natural light and well-placed lamps make spaces inviting.

Remember, a well-staged home sells faster and at a better price! 🌟🔑

Abbe Justus
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

🏠 Home Buying Tip: Don't Skip Inspections! 🏠

Thinking of buying a home? 🤔 Here's why inspections are crucial:

1. Peace of Mind: Inspections should reveal hidden issues (like faulty wiring or plumbing) that you might miss during a walkthrough. Knowing the home's condition helps you make an informed decision.

2. Negotiation Power: If the inspection uncovers problems, you can negotiate repairs or a lower price. It's your chance to ensure you're getting a fair deal.

3. Safety First: Inspections check for safety hazards (think mold, radon, or structural issues). Protect your family by addressing these early.

Remember, a thorough inspection is like a health checkup for your future home! 🌟🔍

Let me start by saying I am not a lawyer, and this story is in no way legal advice. I find the stories behind the lawsuits and contract stipulations interesting, so I’m sharing them in hopes someone else will enjoy them, too.

Background: Eliahu and Lior Ben-Shmuel owned a property in Golden Beach, Florida. To sell it, they signed an exclusive listing agreement with Wimbish-Riteway, Inc., which was valid until May 1, 1996.

The Twist: Before the agreement expired, Linda Bird, a buyer’s agent, showed the property to her clients, the Johnsons, twice in April 1996. However, the Ben-Shmuels didn’t inform their listing agent, Wimbish-Riteway, about these showings.

Switcheroo: After the listing agreement expired, the Ben-Shmuels signed a new agreement with Linda Bird Realty. On June 21, 1996, the Johnsons bought the property for $2,500,000, and Linda Bird Realty received a $75,000 brokerage fee.

Legal Drama: Wimbish-Riteway claimed they were owed the brokerage fee because the property was shown during their agreement’s term. They also argued that the Ben-Shmuels breached the contract by not informing them about the showings.

Court’s Decision: The court sided with Wimbish-Riteway Realty. They ruled that the original listing agreement’s terms were met when the buyers were shown the property during its term, entitling Wimbish-Riteway to the 6% brokerage fee. The Ben-Shmuels ended up paying both commissions ($75,000 to Linda Bird Realty and $150,000 to Wimbish-Riteway), plus court costs and attorney fees for both sides.

Key Takeaways:
1. READ the Contract! Listing agreements are employment contracts. Some require the broker to bring a buyer to closing, and some require the broker to find a ready, willing, and able buyer. Some say that if you sell to a buyer brought by the listing agent’s marketing within an agreed-upon time limit, you may owe the brokerage for finding the buyer. Always read the contract.

2. Just because the contract is over does not mean the obligations always are complete.

If you are looking for an experienced and educated realtor, contact us!

Abbe Justus
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group
[email protected]
850-203-0209

"He is happiest, be he king or peasant, who finds peace in his home."
--
Johan Wolfgang VonGoethe

I sell homes for a living and I have seen all kinds of families. It doesn't matter what family you choose, find your peace and build your home around it. Love conquers all.

Man... I'm jonesing for some junk food today. If it were you, which would you choose? Wings or Nachos??

🌟 Black Dog Cafe: Where Coffee Dreams Come True! 🌟

📍 Location: 229 Lake Ella Dr, Tallahassee, FL, 32303
📞 Phone: (850) 224-2518
🕒 Hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sat 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sun 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Charming Ambiance: Nestled by Lake Ella on North Monroe, the Black Dog Cafe exudes coffee coziness. It's perfect for breakfast or afternoon coffee that is followed by a leisurely stroll around the charming lake.

Coffee Magic: According to locals, their coffee options are top-notch—better than Starbucks. ☕

Bagel Bliss: Yummy bagels and snack fill the menu. Try them all!

Lake Views: Outdoor seating with a scenic lake view—ideal for work or relaxation. The oak trees offer shade, but not much protection from that afternoon rain.

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just seeking a delightful local spot, Black Dog Cafe won’t disappoint! 🌞🐾🏡

Check out their menu and visit soon! https://www.facebook.com/tallycoffee 🌟🔑

Abbe Justus
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

🏠 Unlocking the Power of Interest Rates in Home Buying! 🏠

When it comes to purchasing a home, that seemingly small 1% difference in mortgage interest rates can have a significant impact.

Let’s break it down:

1. Monthly Payment: Consider a typical U.S. home valued at $346,900. At a 7% mortgage rate, your monthly payment would be $1,846. Drop that rate to 6%, and it’s $1,664 — saving you $182 every month.

2. Long-Term Savings: Over 30 years, that 1% difference would save you a whopping $65,691 in interest. Imagine what you could do with those savings! 💰

3. Buying Power Boost: If you budgeted around $1,846 a month for a mortgage payment, that 1% rate drop means you could afford a home worth about $30,480 more without changing your monthly payment.

Remember, interest rates matter — they shape your financial journey! 🌟🔑




Abbe Justus
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

This is why I have bruises all over.

🌿 Updating Market Stats for Killearn Lakes in Tallahassee, FL** 🌿

🏡 Welcome to Killearn Lakes! This quiet community is located northeast of Tallahassee, Florida. It offers a blend of natural beauty, friendly neighbors, and a strong presence of wildlife.

My favorite things about Killearn Lakes includes:

1. Lush Greenery: Killearn Lakes has access to hundreds of miles of hiking trails throughout the surrounding parks. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply appreciate nature, this neighborhood has lots of natural beauty and wildlife.

2. Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families that I talk to love it here! Killearn Lakes Elementary School and Deerlake Middle School are easily accessed from the main road. These schools have received high grades and good recommendations for many years.

3. Real Estate Opportunities: This is a popular community, and home sales prices increased 3.29% in 12 months (2.62% for Leon County). So far this year, homes average about 56 days on the market before sold. Prices have ranged from $200,000 to $915,000.

4. Privacy: The average yard size for the sales so far this year in Killearn Lakes is just under half an acre. These lots are significantly bigger than new neighborhoods. The average house size is 1,866 square feet, giving a family plenty of room to spread out. Most residents (90%) are homeowners.

Remember, if you would like to sell or buy a Killearn Lakes home, we would love to assist you.

Abbe Justus, MS
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.
850-203-0209

🏡 Getting Your Home Ready for Showings: Top Tips for Homeowners 🏡

1. Leave the home 15 minutes before showings to ensure buyers feel comfortable in what could be their new space!

2. Open all the blinds and curtains to let in as much natural light as possible.

3. Turn on all the lights in the home.

4. Turn on some light music, such as jazz or classical music.

5. Have fresh flowers to lighten the scent. Make sure the scents are light, like vanilla or lilac, and not overpowering to make buyers wonder what you are covering up.

6. Empty cat litter, garbage, and trash bins. Take out the recycling.

7. Take your pets or put them in a place they cannot escape.

Your home’s first impression is crucial—follow these tips to make it shine during showings! ✨

If you are considering making a move, we would love to hear from you!

Abbe Justus
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.
850-203-0209

"Sometimes being a friend means mastering the art of timing. There is a time for silence. A time to let go and allow people to hurl themselves into their own destiny. And a time to prepare to pick up the pieces when it's all over."
--
Octavia Butler

One of my favorite authors. She was an American science fiction author and a multiple recipient of the Hugo and Nebula awards.

Are you more of a morning person or more of a night owl?

I love the dark and the sun. I especially love sunrises and sunsets and the golden hours of the day.

🚴‍♂️ Pedal in Paradise! 🚴‍♀️

I've been meaning to post this for a long time!!

This is the best place to rent bicycles in Tallahassee! We rented two of them and peddled for over a hundred miles! Of course, with my knees it was super easy on the electric bike! I can't wait to do it again!

Expert Staff: The team knows their spokes from their hubs. 🛠️

Wide Selection: From sleek road bikes to rugged mountain rides, they’ve got it all. 🚵‍♂️🚴‍♀️
Service Excellence: Quick tune-ups, friendly advice, and genuine passion for cycling. 🙌

The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable! If you are looking for an easier activity for the Tallahassee area, consider renting an e-bike and checking out some of our GORGEOUS trails!!

Follow them for updates! https://www.facebook.com/GreatBicycleShop

Abbe Justus
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

🏠 Living in Florida: We Live in Paradise! 🏠

Considering a move to the Sunshine State?

Here are my favorite things about living in Florida:

1. No State Income Tax: Florida doesn’t have a state income tax. Imagine saving thousands annually! 💰

2. Mild Winters: Enjoy 60-75°F year-round. Golf, beach walks, and gardening are always on the agenda. ☀️

3. Wild Florida: With 1,350 miles of coastline, and thousands of miles of hiking trails, Florida is a dream for outdoor lovers! 🌴

What’s your favorite thing about Florida? Share below! 🌟

I am originally a Midwest farmer's daughter, and when I came to visit graduate school at Florida State University from a snowy Cleveland in February, I fell in love. This wild area of Florida is home to so much abundant wildlife. The parks are beautiful and so large you can walk miles without meeting another soul. Let me give you some history on one of the biggest and loneliest parks in Leon County.

History of the Elinor Klapp-Phipps Park in Tallahassee, Florida.

Originally farmland for the Seminole tribe, by the 19th century, the property was claimed by the Mossview Plantation, established by Amos Whitehead. Plantations this size played an economic and agricultural role in Leon County.

Another notable estate on Klapp-Phipps park land was the Meridian Plantation, which became known for its quail hunting activities. Dwight F. Davis, famous for the Davis Cup in tennis, founded this estate. The plantation’s history is intertwined with the sporting and social life of north Florida and Tallahassee.

Over time, the property changed hands. It was owned by several prominent individuals such as Griscom Bettle and John H. H. Phipps. Eventually, it came under the ownership of Colin Phipps in 1958.

In October 1992, collaborative efforts between the Northwest Florida Water Management District, the City of Tallahassee, and Colin Phipps led to the public acquisition of the land. This effort ensured the preservation of the natural beauty, oak hammocks, and varied recreational opportunities offered by the park.

Today, Elinor Klapp-Phipps Park spans 670 acres and features a diverse landscape. Visitors can explore old fields, open pine woods, and mixed pine-hardwood forests. The park offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, walking, and horseback riding. Notably, the Swamp Forest Trail Marathon takes place here, benefiting trail maintenance and improvements.

Mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy the Red Bug Mountain Bike Trail, which provides an exhilarating biking experience through the park’s scenic terrain. When I attended graduate school at FSU, this was the hardest trail in the area. One of the most dangerous paths has been reworked, but this trail is not for the novice or the faint of heart.

This park is a giant green living space where people connect with nature, exercise, and appreciate the outdoors. I have gone many times and often never see another soul. Enjoy – please remember to keep your pups on leashes for everyone’s comfort. 🌿🌲

Abbe Justus
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

Who else?

🏡 Neighborhood Checklist 🏡

Before buying a home, don’t forget to check out the neighborhood! Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re moving into the perfect area for you and your family:

1. Safety First: Check crime rates and speak with locals about their experiences.
2. School Quality: If you have kids, research nearby schools and their ratings.
3. Commute Time: Test the commute to work during peak hours to see if it’s manageable.
4. Local Amenities: Look for nearby grocery stores, parks, restaurants, and healthcare facilities.
5. Noise Levels: Visit at different times of day to gauge traffic, nightlife, and overall noise.
6. Condition of Homes: Your neighbors can impact your curb appeal.
7. Community Vibe: Walk around and chat with neighbors to see if it feels like a good fit.

🔍 A little research goes a long way in finding your dream home in the perfect neighborhood! 🌟

If you are looking to make a move, I would love to hear from you.

Abbe Justus
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group
850-203-0209
[email protected]

"Things are never quite as scary when you've got a best friend."
-Bill Waterson

I know my friends have gotten me through some TOUGH times.

What do you wear in your home?

We have so many animals, I usually wear slippers. This is Florida though. So I also have house flip flops and church flip flops and store flip flops and date flip flops...

Florida Housing Market Trends: A Comparative Analysis of Major Cities as of July 31, 2024

The Florida housing market continues to show dynamic trends across its major cities. Here's a detailed look at the median house prices and market trends in some of the biggest cities in Florida as of July 31, 2024. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current housing market trends in Florida's major cities. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or invest, staying informed about these trends is crucial for making the best decisions in the ever-changing real estate landscape.

Median Estimated Home Values

- Miami leads the pack with a median estimated home value of $569K, reflecting its status as a prime real estate market.
- Fort Lauderdale follows closely with a median home value of $536K.
- Hialeah and Tampa also show strong median values at $473K and $429K respectively.
- Tallahassee has the lowest median home value among the listed cities at $307K.

Monthly Market Changes

- Jacksonville and Miami both saw a 0.72% increase in home values over the last month.
- Orlando experienced a 0.41% increase, while Tallahassee saw a modest 0.31% rise.
- On the other hand, St. Petersburg and Port St. Lucie experienced declines of 0.92% and 0.85% respectively.

Quarterly Market Changes

- St. Petersburg showed a significant 4.73% increase over the last three months.
- Miami and Hialeah also saw notable increases of 2.17% and 2.65% respectively.
- Cape Coral and Port St. Lucie experienced declines of 1.2% and 0.89% respectively.

Annual Market Changes

- Port St. Lucie stands out with a staggering 118.74% increase over the last 12 months.
- Hialeah and Miami also saw impressive increases of 10.87% and 9.44% respectively.
- St. Petersburg and Cape Coral experienced declines of 0.99% and 3.77% respectively.

Biennial Market Changes

- Port St. Lucie continues to impress with a 127.12% increase over the last 24 months.
- Hialeah and Miami also saw significant increases of 20.37% and 18.09% respectively.
- St. Petersburg and Cape Coral experienced declines of 4.14% and 3.61% respectively.

Triennial Market Changes

- Over the last 36 months, Port St. Lucie saw an astounding 172.65% increase.
- Miami and Hialeah also showed strong increases of 46.64% and 42.94% respectively.
- St. Petersburg and Cape Coral experienced declines of 4.14% and 3.61% respectively.

Distressed Properties
- Jacksonville has the highest number of distressed properties at 199, followed by Miami with 187.
- St. Petersburg and Port St. Lucie have no distressed properties listed.
- Tallahassee has 27 distressed properties.

Conclusion

The Florida housing market is diverse and dynamic, with significant variations in median home values and market trends across its major cities. While some cities like Port St. Lucie and Miami show impressive growth, others like St. Petersburg and Cape Coral have experienced declines. Understanding these trends can help potential buyers and investors make informed decisions in the Florida real estate market.

Abbe Justus
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.

Real Estate Market Trends in Tallahassee, FL! 📈🏠

The latest market trends show a 4.12 Months Supply of Inventory in Tallahassee. When there is less than 6 month's supply of inventory of homes, it is generally considered a seller's market. Despite many real estate market challenges, there are more buyers than inventory. By the way, this level of inventory is almost 60% than it was last year.

The List to Sold Price percentage is 98.6%, indicating sellers are still getting close to the price they are asking. With a median days on market of 34, the market is hot and homes are selling quickly. It takes an average of 30 days to close on a loan. This median days on the market tells us that there are many ready, willing, and able buyers snatching up correctly priced homes.

The median Sold Price is $353,000 for July 2024. This is nearly a percent higher than June 2024, but lower than $385K for May 2024. The median price per square foot for Tallahassee was $205 in July, 2024.

What caught my eye this month was the residential market activity reports. The estimated Value of Residential Property dropped month-over-month across most of the zip codes. This is one month of lower values, it remains to be seen if the increases in values over the few zip codes will continue to pull up the values for the whole city. Stay tuned to your favorite nerdy Tallahassee Realtor!

If you are looking to make a move this year, reach out to me. I would be honored to guide you through the process with my expertise and professionalism.

Abbe Justus, MS
Broker Associate
Ketcham Realty Group, Inc.
850-321-0920
[email protected]