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All posts by Scott Patterson

What Makes Scott a Hands-On Real Estate Expert

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When you’re looking to buy or sell a home in South Florida, it’s crucial to work with an agent that offers more than just superior service. In a recent article for Aventura Magazine, Scott Patterson took the time to discuss his hands-on approach to real estate, as well as what makes him different than other agents.

Learn More About the Market and Scott Patterson

As the world continues to navigate the ongoing global health crisis, the real estate industry has gone through some pretty drastic changes. However, local expertise, longevity in the market, and decades of experience have given Scott the ability to support his clients’ shifting needs.

Here’s what Scott had to say about his own illustrious career and how the South Florida market has changed since the spread COVID-19.

How did Scott start his career?

checking charts and graphs

Although he originally hails from Tennessee, Scott has lived in the Miami area since 1996, which is also when he started his career with EWM Realty. It’s rare to see any agent remain with the same brokerage for so long, but Scott believes that it’s a testament to his commitment and dedication.

Scott’s firm, an affiliate of Berkshire Hathaway, is also considered to be one of the globe’s top international companies. When clients see the recognizable name and branding, they immediately know they’re working with someone they trust.

What makes him different than other agents?

sitting around a table having a meeting

Scott prides himself on being involved in every aspect of a sale, whether he’s selling a waterfront condo in Hollywood or a $15 million estate in Stuart. And when you work with Scott, it’s about more than just closing a transaction—he thrives off of building relationships with clients that last a lifetime.

“When you hire me, you get me…I truly enjoy the entire process from the initial meeting until the closing and beyond…” says Scott. “[this] has organically created a loyal client base.”

How’s the market right now?

rise in number of buyers

Despite the fluctuating economy and stock market, it’s still possible to make a move here in South Florida. When asked about the current state of the market, Scott noted that he saw a dip in international sales, but a rise in buyers from major metro areas like New York and Chicago.

Many buyers believe that living in a warmer climate can help combat the spread of COVID-19. However, the South Florida lifestyle also offers a level of coastal luxury that you won’t find anywhere else, especially if you love to boat, golf, or take in the natural surroundings. This makes it an attractive destination for just about anyone!

Will there be any other changes?

selling homes in Florida

South Florida’s real estate market will likely see even more changes during the next few months. Scott predicted that single-family home sales will begin to rise, and certain desirable features will dominate the market.

More outdoor space, a larger home office, more square footage, and a large backyard are now at the top of many buyers’ wishlists. So if you’re thinking about selling soon, you may want to catch up with the latest trends and update your space accordingly.

Ready to Take Your Next Steps?

Don’t trust just any agent to help you buy or sell your South Florida home! The Scott Patterson Group has all the tools you need to get top dollar or find your perfect place, so just let us know if you have any questions.

Still on the fence about making a move? Check out our team’s achievements and reviews to see what we bring to the table.

Why You Should Buy a Home on the South Florida Waterfront

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South Florida is known for its gorgeous homes, sandy beaches, and endless coastal beauty, which is part of why it’s the perfect place for anyone to live. If you’re eager to embrace a lifestyle that’s both relaxing and luxurious, the South Florida waterfront could be the place for you.

The Benefits of Living on the South Florida Waterfront

Are you thinking about making a move to the South Florida waterfront? When you live here, you’ll quickly discover why so many people choose to call the Sunshine State home. There are also plenty of benefits that come with buying a house in one of the best vacation destinations in the country—here are just a few.

Shopping and Dining Areas

friends-dining-outside

There are some amazing areas around South Florida that are ideal for shopping, like The Shops at Sunset Place and The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale. There are even more places to eat, too! South Florida is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are tons of food festivals that are held around the area.

Secluded Areas Exist, Too

secluded beach area

If you’re not a fan of the hustle and bustle of city life, you’ll also be able to find secluded areas in South Florida where you can unwind in total serenity. Whether you want to live quietly by Pensacola Beach or a little bit off the coast, you’ll have no trouble finding your own slice of paradise in the middle of nowhere.

Living on the Waterfront

beach walkway

South Florida has beautiful rivers, canals, and oceanfront homes that are currently on the market. In fact, many of the area’s most prestigious communities are situated right on the water, and they also offer some beautiful views. These neighborhoods are perfect for anyone who likes to swim, boat, or even just relax by the ocean. 

Great Home Values

modern house in florida

The housing market in most areas of South Florida is strong, which has led to a booming inventory of houses available for buyers. Plus, with interest rates being as low as they are, you’ll probably get a great deal on your new home!

The Sunshine State

sunset on the beach

There’s a reason why Florida is nicknamed the Sunshine State. The year-round sunshine and warm temperatures attract people to visit, move, and even retire to Florida. When the weather is this beautiful all the time, you can spend your days relaxing outside, enjoying outdoor activities like swimming or playing tennis, or just watching the waves.

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’re looking to buy your next home in South Florida, then the Scott Patterson Group can help! We have plenty of resources for you to explore, and we would love to help you settle in. If you’re ready to take the next steps, contact us today!

Pandemic Picnic: The 4 Best Beaches for Picnicking in South Florida

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After being cooped up for two months, it’s time to go outside and soak up the sun! Here in South Florida, our beaches are open, and as long as you maintain proper social distance, you can enjoy a day out by the ocean. Why not bring a meal out there, too?

South Florida Beaches Are Ready for Picnics

Due to everything going on right now, you’ve probably been stuck at home for quite a while. Now is a great time to plan a visit to South Florida’s beaches, and you could even pack a meal to enjoy, too. Whether you go with family or even take a book and head down solo, you’re bound to have a great time at any one of these South Florida beaches.

1. Sanibel Island

waterfront palm trees

This beach is known for the beautiful shells and birds that line its coast. There’s no better place to watch the ocean waves while enjoying a good meal! It’s also pretty secluded, so you shouldn’t have to worry too much about other people or maintaining social distance. 

2. Siesta Beach

beautiful beach sunset

This popular beach is known for having sand that’s made out of quartz crystals. That means it’s always cool, which makes it ideal for the perfect summer excursion—eating a meal here won’t be too hot, and the clear ocean water will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. 

3. Clearwater Beach

Windy beach day

This location is perfect if you’re looking to spend some time outdoors and enjoy more than just a meal. There are bike trails around the nearby town, and you’ll also be able to take in the atmosphere of a relaxing beach. While Clearwater Beach is mostly known for the restaurants around it, you can still have a great day on the seashore even if they’re closed. 

4. Pensacola Beach

Beach sand dunes

If you’re looking for a magical place where you can relax along the dunes while taking in the view, then Pensacola Beach is a spot you have to visit. You’ll have a great time watching the local wildlife and unwinding on sandy dunes—it’s also the perfect place to picnic! Dolphins are known to come pretty close to the shoreline, so keep your eyes peeled for them.

Are You Moving to South Florida?

If you’re looking for more things to do in the South Florida area because you’re about to buy a home here, then we can help! The Scott Patterson Group has all the tools you need to find your dream home. Contact us if you’re ready to take the next steps, and make sure to check out the resources we have for buyers!

4 Selling Strategies That Will Get You Top Dollar for Your Home

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Despite the uncertainty of the last few months, now is actually a fantastic time to sell your home in South Florida. In fact, pent up buyer demand, low inventory, and relatively stable prices have given sellers an even greater advantage than ever before. However, that doesn’t mean you can just put a “For Sale” sign up in front of your house and lure in potential buyers!

Here Are Some of My Best Home Selling Strategies

Selling your home requires proven tactics, tons of research, and a defined plan of action. If you’re eager to move quickly and get top dollar for your property, my strategies can help you get started on the right foot. Here are a few exclusive tips to keep in mind throughout the selling process.

Work with the Right Agent

Real estate agent helping with selling strategies

Your agent can make or break your entire home sale, so it’s crucial to interview a few candidates before settling on “the one.” The right real estate agent should have plenty of experience in your area, a solid marketing strategy, and a proven track record of success.

Of course, it’s also important to connect with your agent on a more personal level, too. Make sure you get along and that they have a clear understanding of your selling goals. Remember—an agent is supposed to have your best interests in mind!

Price Correctly

House and piggy bank

Even the most gorgeous homes can sit on the market if they aren’t priced correctly. And unless you have quite a bit of selling experience under your belt, it can be hard to know just how much your property is worth. That’s why it’s best to turn to the experts when it comes to pricing!

Talk to your agent to determine the best price for your home before it hits the market. They can help you attract plenty of buyers while also protecting your hard earned equity. Many agents also offer a free comparative market analysis, which can help you discover how much your home is really worth if you’re still on the fence about selling.

Stage for Success

Luxury condo with selling strategies

When buyers tour your listing, they’ll want to envision themselves living in your space. Unfortunately, your clutter and personalized decor is probably not part of their vision. That’s why staging your home is so important—but it doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive.

First, start by deep cleaning your space and getting rid of any excess clutter. From there, you can add a fresh coat of neutral colored paint to your walls, pare down your accessories, and get rid of any large furniture. Drawing back the curtains and lighting a scented candle can also add a magical touch right before a showing.

Always Be Flexible

Using a planner

It might be a seller’s market, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be flexible with buyers. Try your best to accommodate showings, and never stay in a home when buyers are present. The last thing you want to do is make them feel uncomfortable and jeopardize your sale!

If you’re having trouble making time for showings, try to clear your schedule as much as possible. It’s also a good idea to plan your errands or work schedule around home tours, so you’ll have a reason to be out of the house. It might seem inconvenient, but these sacrifices will be worth it once you finally sell your property.

Looking for More Selling Strategies?

If you’re interested in learning more about my top home selling strategies, I’d love to offer my expertise! I’m Scott Patterson, and I have decades of experience helping clients sell their homes in South Florida. Just give me a call to get started, and don’t forget to check out my seller resources to learn more.

How You Can Stay Close to Family and Friends Virtually

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These trying times are making everyone feel separated from loved ones—especially as we learn to deal with Southern Florida’s stay-at-home orders. Calling or texting your family and friends just isn’t the same as seeing them in person!

Social Distancing and Staying Close

The good news is that it’s not as hard as it sounds to stay close to your loved ones, even if you’re adhering to social distancing mandates. Here are several ways you can stay in touch with the people you love. 

1. Video Chatting

video chat

Video chatting lets you see your family and friends…virtually! While it doesn’t seem so different than a phone call, it feels more normal than listening to their voice over the phone. This is also a perfect way to keep in touch with growing children or grandchildren that you can’t see in-person.

Facebook Messenger has a free video chatting platform that you can use right from your phone. This is an easy option that works for pretty much everyone. If you don’t already have a Facebook account, make sure to create one and download the Facebook Messenger app.

2. Letters

writing letters to family and friends

While the world is practically on hold during this global health crisis, the post office is still going strong. Hand-written letters can say a lot more than text messages, and there are emotions tied to them that you can’t communicate as easily over the phone.

The post office is also encouraging customers to send letters as a way to stimulate the economy. You can even customize your envelope with various postage stamp designs that have been released lately; you’re sure to find something you’ll like!

3. Virtual Games

playing mobile games with family and friends

There are millions of mobile game apps that are available on every smartphone and tablet. If you’re looking for a way to stay connected throughout the day, check out some of the more popular games, like Words with Friends, Trivia Crack, or Uno. 

Find a multiplayer game, get your loved ones to download it, and play together! Many of these games can run in the background during your daily lives, which allows you to take turns throughout the day. Alternatively, you can set up a virtual game night where everyone sits down and plays at the same time.

We’re Here to Help

Even if you’re not looking to buy or sell your home, the Scott Patterson Group is here to meet your needs. If you have any questions about how you can stay close to your family and friends in the age of social distancing, let us know—we’re happy to help in any way we can.

Four Classic South Florida Restaurants That Are Working Through COVID-19

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Recent events have changed how people across the world are living life, especially here in the Sunshine State. The current stay-at-home order runs through mid-May, and it’s having a pretty strenuous impact on local South Florida restaurants and businesses. 

Support Local South Florida Restaurants and Maintain Social Distance

It’s important to maintain social distance, but that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to a good meal. Local businesses have found ways to maneuver through the current situation by offering takeout and/or delivery options. These South Florida restaurants are still open and could use your support.

1. Le Patio

beef wellington

If you’re looking for European-style food, then Le Patio is your best option. Known for their famous French Onion soup, this restaurant has options that include beef Wellington, smoked salmon, shepherd’s pie, and even Italian quesadillas. There are plenty of vegetarian options available as well.

As of April 17, Le Patio is open for takeout during lunch and dinner. You can call ahead and place your order!

2. Juniper on the Water

cooking brisket

With options ranging from seafood, steaks, pasta, and brisket sandwiches, Juniper on the Water has something for everyone to love. Their “family-style menu” lets you choose between one protein, one sauce, and two sides to feed two or four people. They’re also serving drinks, including wine and beer, for takeout orders.

Juniper on the Water is currently open for takeout and delivery. Although they’re available on several meal-delivery apps, you can save 20% by calling and placing a takeout order instead!

3. Aruba Beach Cafe

grilled salmon

Aruba Beach Cafe specializes in seafood delicacies, but there are other classic options like burgers and salads. The best part? There are plenty of dessert options to satisfy your sweet tooth, too! 

Aruba Beach Cafe is only available for takeout from 11 PM to 1 AM as of April 17. This is a perfect late-night option for all the quarantined night-owls.

4.  La Vie Lebanese Restaurant

lebanese dish

If you want to try some new food, check out the Lebanese cuisine at La Vie Lebanese Restaurant. They offer delicious meals that incorporate lamb, chicken, grouper, and Moroccan spices—it’s some of the most unique food that South Florida has to offer.

Currently, La Vie Lebanese Restaurant has options for takeout and delivery for you to choose from. 

These are by no means all the restaurants open for business. Be sure to call ahead and make sure that any restaurant you go to is open, as hours are subject to change at any moment.

Looking for Other South Florida Restaurants to Support?

The Scott Patterson Group is available to help you navigate these trying times, even if you’re not trying to sell or buy a home. Reach out to us if you have any questions, and we’ll do our best to help you.

What Will Go Back to Normal After COVID-19…and What’s Here to Stay

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The last month has been chaotic, especially in the world of real estate. Many agents adapted quickly to help their clients during COVID-19, and some of these changes might be here to stay.

How Real Estate Will Change After COVID-19

Let’s face it—we’re all ready for things to go back to normal. But many people are asking themselves what “normal” might look like in the next few months. If you’re still thinking about buying or selling your home this year, here are a few trends that might linger for a while…and some changes that probably won’t stick around.

Virtual Tours Are Here to Stay

Man using a smartphone during COVID-19

Virtual tours have been around for a while, but they’ve transformed into an essential tool for buyers who are looking for their perfect place. And while they can’t replace in-person showings and open houses, they’ll definitely remain popular after the COVID-19 crisis ends.

Now more than ever, many agents are offering virtual tours of their listings to reach quarantined buyers. However, they’re also helpful to those who are moving from out-of-state and cannot physically attend a showing. We can expect to keep seeing plenty of virtual tours in the coming months, especially in relocation markets like South Florida.

In-Person Showings Will Make a Comeback

Buyers touring a home

Although virtual tours will remain popular for years to come, some buyers aren’t willing to commit to a home without seeing it themselves. Most Florida agents are sticking to online showings for the foreseeable future, but we’ll probably experience a sharp uptick of in-person tours once social distancing measures are relaxed.

Physical showings might resume before the end of this year—however, buyers, sellers, and agents will have to remain vigilant. You may still have to limit contact with surfaces or sanitize thoroughly before, during, and after the tour. While these changes might seem inconvenient, they’ll help keep everyone safe in the long run.

Remote Closings Will Gain Popularity

Real estate agent closing remotely

Nobody loves filling out paperwork, and there are just certain parts of the closing process that are inconvenient. In order to comply with CDC guidelines, buyers and sellers can now close on their homes remotely through e-signatures and mobile notarization. Some agents are even willing to hand-deliver your paperwork or video chat throughout the process!

Believe it or not, remote closings may soon become the norm for everyone. Having the ability to sign documents online can be extremely beneficial to remote buyers and sellers, too.

Expect an Influx of Eager Buyers and Sellers

People buying a home

COVID-19 has changed all aspects of life here in South Florida—and it’s forced some buyers and sellers to press pause on their real estate dreams. While it’s impossible to predict the impact that this situation will have on the market, plenty of people are still eager to make a move later this year.

We will probably see a steady influx of buyers and sellers entering the market during the late summer. Although spring wasn’t quite the hot real estate season we were expecting, it’s still possible to make a deal this year!

Looking for More Info on COVID-19 and Real Estate?

If you’re curious about how the COVID-19 crisis will affect the South Florida market, we’re here to help. Check out our virtual buying and selling programs for more details, and give us a call with any questions. The Scott Patterson Group is always here during your time of need!

Everything You Need to Know About Virtual Tours

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As we navigate a new normal, many homebuyers are taking to the internet to check out the latest listings…virtually! Virtual tours have been around for quite a while, but in the age of social distancing, they’ve become an essential tool that can make your home search a whole lot easier.

The 3 Most Popular Types of Virtual Tours

Not all virtual tours are created equal—but they can definitely help you decide whether or not you’re interested in a property. Here are some of the most common types of online home tours that you should know about.

Video Tours

People checking out virtual tours

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words…but a video is definitely worth a thousand pictures! Video tours can give you a good idea what a home really looks like on the inside and provide a level of depth that goes beyond just a photo. Most video tours will feature full 360º views of the most important rooms in the house, such as the kitchen, living room, and master bedroom.

Some agents really love go above and beyond with their videos—they might add commentary on a home or drone footage of the property. A great video tour will also provide the price, square footage, and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.

3D Tours

Woman checking out 3D tours

There’s nothing quite like walking through a home and touring it yourself. Believe it or not, it’s still possible to explore every square inch of a listing from the comfort of your couch! Three-dimensional (3D) tours utilize an advanced 360º camera to create a fully-interactive experience. Some cameras are even capable of rendering a floorplan of a home, which makes it easy to click from room to room.

These types of tours are highly beneficial to buyers, as it lets them virtually “walk” through a home without actually being there in person. You can turn around, go forward or backward, and click on the exact rooms that you want to see. Best of all, you won’t be limited by time—feel free to check out the home for as long as you’d like!

Virtual Open Houses

Person taking a virtual tour

Many agents are turning to social media for a more personal approach to online tours. Virtual open houses allow buyers to check out a home in real time via live video streaming. Some buyers also enjoy the authenticity that comes with viewing “raw footage” of a home.

Facebook Live, Zoom, and FaceTime are all popular platforms for virtual open houses, but if you’d like to make special arrangements, just contact your agent. And while you’re “touring,” be sure to ask plenty of questions—this is your chance to get an insider’s perspective on a listing!

Want to Schedule a Virtual Tour?

If you’re getting ready to buy a home, we’d love to help you navigate every step of the process. Just give us a call to learn more about South Florida’s ever-changing market. The Scott Patterson Group has all the tools you need to find your perfect place!

Why You Should Be Using Sold Data to Buy or Sell Your Home

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Thinking about buying or selling a home in South Florida? Before you enter a competitive real estate market, you’ll want to have all the tools you need to succeed. Although it might be tempting to scour the latest listings on the MLS, there’s another strategy you should consider. Studying sold data can make a huge difference in your home sale or search—here’s how it works.

Why Sold Data Matters More Than You Think

Sold data is a useful tool for buyers, sellers, and agents alike—and it can also show you how the market is really doing.

What is sold data, and why is it useful?

Person studying sold data

Even if you don’t have a lot of real estate experience, you might be familiar with sold data. In a nutshell, it’s information about homes that have recently sold—such as the sold price, when it sold, and who sold it.

Our site makes it easy to keep up with the latest sold data throughout South Florida. You can also search by city, neighborhood, or even a specific street! Just check out our handy search tool and click on “Sold Listings” instead of “Active Listings” to get started.

How does it help sellers?

Seller looking at sold data

Want to scope out your competition? It’s important to stay up-to-date with active listings in your neighborhood, but you should also be keeping track of what sells.

Believe it or not, many listings on the MLS are overpriced, underpriced, or have been sitting on the market for months. And if you’re having trouble pricing your home, these properties could send you in the wrong direction. Doesn’t it make more sense to study homes that have already sold?

By checking out sold data, you’ll discover prices, selling strategies, and staging techniques that have actually worked. It can also give you a good idea of what buyers are looking for in your specific community!

How does it help buyers?

Buyers on a computer

Believe it or not, sold data can also help buyers find the home of their dreams…for the right price. When you’re buying a home in South Florida’s hot market, it can be hard to know how much you should be paying. If you don’t want to waste time sorting through thousands of active listings, it might be time to change your approach.

As we mentioned, many homes on the market today just aren’t priced correctly. To see what homes are really selling for in your neighborhood of choice, try checking out the latest sold data. It’s the easiest way to know if you can afford a specific area—or find out if you’re about to snag the deal of a lifetime.

Ready to get started? Our search tool also has a map feature, which allows you to view sold data by location. You can even search by school district, budget, features, and so much more!

Bottom line: You should be using sold data!

Sold data graph

In addition to studying active listings, it’s imperative to keep up with sold data to truly understand your local market. To make things simple, you can also create a saved search for a specific area with our personal property organizer.

Ready to Buy or Sell in South Florida?

If it’s time to take your next steps, we’d love to help you navigate your real estate journey from start to finish. Just give us a call for more information—we have plenty of buying and selling resources to get you started!

What You Should Know About Appealing to Buyers with Pets

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Did you know that 67% of Americans own some kind of pet? Dogs and cats unsurprisingly reign supreme, and when it comes to selling your home, it’s important to keep them in mind. Appealing to buyers with pets is easier than you might think, even if you don’t have a furry friend of your own. Here are a few pointers to get you started!

Show Off Pet-Friendly Features

Puppy with toy appealing to buyers with pets

Many agents will say that you have to hide every trace of your pet when you’re selling your home. Thankfully, this isn’t always the case. While you don’t want to leave food bowls and litter boxes on display for buyers, you can still tastefully show off your home’s pet-friendly features.

Many buyers are willing to pay a premium for dedicated pet space, so now is the time to get creative. If you have a little nook under your staircase or an empty spot in your built-in shelving, you can DIY a lounge space for Fluffy and Fido. Consider adding a small bed, a new toy, or clean food bowls to create the perfect ambiance!

Highlight Special Amenities

Cat in the grass

Many new communities in South Florida are crafting a one-of-a-kind living experience for homeowners and pets alike. It’s not uncommon to find a neighborhood with its own dog park, pet grooming station, and even on-site pet daycare! Condo and apartment complexes are also winning over buyers with more lenient pet policies.

If you have any of these benefits, be sure to tell your agent about them. They can help you market your home as a pet-friendly space, which will help you appeal to a wider variety of buyers.

Showcase Your Outdoor Space

Pug puppy appealing to buyers with pets

Many buyers are on the hunt for a property with plenty of outdoor space…but it’s not for the reason you might think. Pet owners are even willing to relocate for their furry friends, and a huge yard is often at the top of their “must have” list.

If you do have tons of outdoor space, don’t forget to showcase it in your listing. A few flattering photos can help, too—just be sure to clean up any brown spots on your lawn beforehand. Don’t have a yard of your own? Highlight any nearby dog parks or green space instead.

Work with the Right Agent

Pets with family

Believe it or not, there are agents that specialize in buying and selling pet-friendly homes. These agents often work with vets, groomers, and other pet pros to foster communities dedicated to our furry friends. Even if your real estate pro doesn’t market themselves as a pet-friendly agent, they probably still have a few tips that can help you out.

When you discuss your selling goals with your agent, be sure to mention any special features that might win over animal lovers. If you live in a condo complex with some of the amenities mentioned above, you should probably include those perks in your listing.

Do You Need Help Appealing to Buyers with Pets?

When you’re listing your South Florida home, only work with the best of the best. I’m Scott Patterson, and I’d love to help you market your home to all different kinds of buyers. Just drop me a line to see what I can do for you, and be sure to check out my seller resources, too.