Services we offer

Buying

The American Property Buying Process

In America the Real Estate system works differently to that in the UK. All Realtors (Estate Agents) share the properties they have for sale with each other. Holding a Florida Real Estate license enables us to show you any property listed for sale in the entire state, not only the ones on our books. This way the buyer is able to build a relationship with one Realtor rather than having to traipse from one office to another.

In Florida, Realtors are always paid their commission by the seller; there are no fees charged to the buyer for the Realtors services. This also means we are unbiased, as we are not representing a particular builder or community and can show you any property you desire.

The Steps

Once we have helped you determine where, what size, price and style you would like your home to be, we find current properties on the market that fit your profile. We like to specialize in our favourite area of the Gulf Coast of Florida, but we do go further afield. If you are interested in an area we are not able to cover, we will help you to narrow down the field and then recommend a British realtor in that area to conduct the viewings.
By the time we meet in Florida we will ensure that you have finances in place for purchasing and be ready to show you a selection of properties that meet your criteria.
When you decide on a particular home we will write a contract detailing your offer and present it to the seller's agent, with a cheque for up to 5 % of the purchase price ("earnest money") as proof of serious intent to buy.
Unlike in the UK, once all negotiations are agreed upon and the contract has been signed by both parties, it becomes a binding agreement and the earnest money is only refundable to the buyer in exceptional circumstances.
The contract will then go to an attorney for title searches, tax prorating etc. Closing ("completion" in the UK) is usually within 30 days. Congratulations - you are a Florida property owner!

Mortgage Advice

We can talk you through the jargon and process of applying for a U.S mortgage and recommend companies we have used, including an English company based in Florida that specialises in mortages for Brits buying in the U.S. If you are considering pulling equity out of your UK proporty we can put you in touch with a remortgage specialist. www.lynxbanc.com

Selling

If you have property in Florida that you would like to sell, we can list it for you at a very competitive rate. We are members of the National Board of Realtors so our listings will be added to a database seen by all Florida Realtors and therefore their buyers.

Renting

Although we do not offer a rental service, for a nominal fee we are happy to research rents in your area, find a management/maintainance company etc and advertise your Florida rental property on our website. Whether you have an annual let or a seasonal let.

Minor Improvements

If the property you purchase needs some minor repairs or improvements or you would simply like it decorated to match your personal taste, our after-sales services can give you a competitive quote.

Furnishing

The house you purchase may need furnishing, especially if you are going to rent it seasonally. If you are unable to fly over yourself to take care of this we will be happy to give you a quote - whether you just need the basics or would like the property completely kitted-out, we can take care of everything.

Research Package for other Countries

If you are considering purchasing an overseas property other than in Florida we can put together a 'Research Package' for your area of interest. The package will include:

Information about the town, airports etc.
Property available in the area (within your budget).
Rental rates for that type of property.
Local management fees.
A selection of Estate Agents in the area.
Mortgage companies dealing with the country.

Countries we have covered so far; France, Spain, Italy, Mexico, Croatia and Bulgaria, and we are adding more all the time!

Rachel Deas
Licensed Realtor
IBR Realty Office: 941-822-3422
Cell: 941-726-9300