Tips For Buying

Jan. 25, 2022

Condo Loans New Rules Having an Impact

Changes to condo loan guidelines from Fannie and Freddie that just took affect are starting to have an impact on loan approvals. 

Change #1- On January 1st of this year Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae implemented new guidelines for the underwriting of condo buildings. 

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Dec. 30, 2021

Short Term Rental Guide Condo and Single Family Pinellas County

SHORT TERM RENTAL GUIDE for beach communities in Pinellas County attached units and single family dwellings.

Owning property on or near the beach can be a great investment especially if the real estate you purchased allows for overnight and weekly stays.  Each city in Pinellas County has its …

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July 2, 2021

7 Winning Tips for Buyers

We hope you found this article helpful. Is there a topic you would like us to cover for you? We would love to. Email your request to stephen@tomsmithteam.com.  

Our team is ranked in the top 1% of all agents in Pinellas County. If you are looking for …

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May 28, 2021

Update Proposed Changes to 1031 Exchange and What it Means

NAR Counters Proposal Limiting 1031-Exchanges to $500K

Under Pres. Biden’s proposal, 1031 like-kind exchanges only defer $500K from taxation. NAR says not to panic, though. There’s time before any decisions are made.

WASHINGTON – President Joe Biden’s recent tax …

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May 27, 2021

Want to Invest in an Airbnb? 5 Things to Consider

Here is an article I put together that may be helpful if you are considering Airbnb.  I will be on the beach looking at properties today and would love to spend a few moments with you by phone to catch up on what the local market is doing and …

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March 23, 2021

Fla.’s Housing Market: More Sales, Higher Median Prices in Feb. 2021

Florida Realtors’ data: Single-family home sales rose 15.7% year-over-year, median sales price up 16.6%; condo sales up 28.7%, median price up 16.6%. Chief Economist O’Connor: Fewer new listings and a tight inventory means a strong seller’s market.- SEE VIDEO BELOW

ORLANDO, Fla. – Amid increased COVID-19 vaccinations …

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Feb. 16, 2021

Vacation Rental Fight Revs Up Again

Stay tuned for updates to this story. For more information on this story or owning a vacation rental home or condo in the Clearwater-St. Pete Beach area call or text Tom Smith 727-776-3375 or Kristin Vincelli at 727-686-1596. The Tom Smith Team is in the top 1% of agents in …

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Oct. 1, 2020

20 Questions To Ask When Buying A Condo

Are you considering buying a condo in Florida? As condo real estate experts we realize the importance of taking the time to research the community you are interested in. Knowing the right questions to ask before you submit and offer is paramount to finding the perfect condo unit.  

We …

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Posted in Tips For Buying
Sept. 17, 2020

16 Questions To Ask Your Lender

Thinking of buying a home and need financing? Here are 16 questions to consider asking your lender. If you would like assistance finding a local lender that we recommend, please call Stephen at 727-430-1995.  

Interested in owning a home but not able to make it to the area? …

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Posted in Tips For Buying