Category Archives: Buyers

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

access_timeApril 24, 2020personScott Patterson

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

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

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

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

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

access_timeApril 21, 2020personScott Patterson

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

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

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

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!

The Hidden Perks of Buying Vacant Land

access_timeFebruary 24, 2020personScott Patterson

Are you looking for a great investment property? Do you want to build your own home? Are you not sure where to start your real estate journey? If the answer is “yes” to any of these questions, it might be time to consider buying vacant land. Believe it or not, there’s still plenty of open space around South Florida—and there are a few hidden perks you’ll want to know about before you buy.

It’s more affordable

As home prices keep rising, vacant land remains a more affordable option for South Florida buyers. Buying an empty lot is a lot less expensive than you might think, and there really is something to suit every budget.

Let’s take a second to break down the numbers. The average home in Miami-Dade County sells for around $290,200, and the average list price has climbed to $409,415. However, vacant land often sells for half of that price…and you can even get more acreage for a lower price.

You get more options

Whether you’re a commercial real estate investor or a buyer looking to build a home, you’ll find plenty of options when you invest in vacant land. If you can dream it, you can do it—and all it takes is a fantastic agent to help you find the property of your dreams.

As of early 2020, there is around 1,000 residential and 5,000 commercial acreage currently available for development in Miami-Dade County. That means you’ll have plenty to choose from when you begin your search for the right plot of land! From there, you can connect with a builder to craft a property that truly suits your needs.

It’s a fantastic investment

Vacant lots in South Florida have appreciated dramatically over the last few years, which means now is the time to make an investment. Even if you don’t quite know what you want to do with your lot, you’ll likely gain money whenever you go to sell it.

Wondering what kinds of features offer a bigger return? You can never go wrong with waterfront properties, as buyers are almost always willing to pay a premium for stellar views. Lots on golf courses also enjoy a higher than average appreciation rate, as do plots on a level piece of land.

You have direct ownership

Cash book with dollar bills and house figure

Most real estate transactions involving an empty lot are a cash deal—and that can come with some pros and cons. Although it is a larger investment up front, you won’t be taking out a mortgage to pay for it. That means you won’t have a loan hanging over your head, and you’ll also own the land free and clear.

Every deal is different, so be sure to negotiate terms that you’re comfortable with. Either way, not having a mortgage means you can spend your money elsewhere—and you can even start building your next home.

Buying Vacant Land? I Can Help!

Buying vacant land in South Florida requires the guidance of an expert, and I’m here to help! I’m Scott Patterson, and I’ve been buying and selling vacant land for years. I’d be honored to be part of your next real estate adventure—just give me a call with any questions and check out my latest listings for more details.

Looking Back on 2019: The Top Home Design Trends of the Past Year

access_timeDecember 6, 2019personScott Patterson

With each new year comes new trends—in food, in fashion, in entertainment, and, of course, in interior design. This year was all about sleek minimalism, and you can expect much of the popular trends of 2019 to carry through into 2020.

Here’s a look back on the top design trends of the past year—and which ones you can expect to stick around next year.

Nordic Touches

If you put industrial design and minimalism into a Venn diagram, Nordic influence would be the overlap in the center. In practice, Nordic touches look like muted tones of gray and blue, dark metal and rich wood accents, and plenty of natural lighting. It’s clean, it’s bright, and above all, it’s stylish.

Here to stay?

In 2020, you can still expect to see many elements of the Nordic trend in interior design, particularly in color palettes. Keep an eye out for ways to increase the lighting and draw attention to colors in your own space!

Statement Pieces

This year was all about minimalism, but that’s not to say there wasn’t room for creative expression. Statement pieces—whether in furniture, lighting, rugs, or any other feature—were all the rage for pulling rooms together, including intricate wall lighting, ornate rugs, and curved couches and chairs.

Here to stay?

In our opinion, statement pieces will stick around next year, but in a different way. We expect there to be a move away from actual physical statement pieces, and instead a use of colors to draw in the eye—especially through furniture.

Plant Life

Houseplants, a popular 2019 interior design trend.

This year, everyone—but especially millennials—went all in on house plants. Check any hip Instagram or Pinterest account, and you’ll see rooms filled with potted plants on shelves, hanging plants suspended from the ceiling, and greenery atop every table. And it makes sense—plants not only boost your mood, but are also a great way to fill space in your home!

Here to stay?

Plants can be a bit of a commitment, so unless people accidentally kill theirs off, you can expect them to stick around for a while…at least through 2020. Next year, we may even see favor shift to larger plants!

Geometric Patterns

Honeycomb shelving, geo terrariums, octagonal mirrors—you couldn’t walk into a store this year without seeing some form of geometric home decor. The trend was in part influenced by its ability to mesh well with other popular designs, like industrial and boho chic.

Here to stay?

The dynamic nature of geometric patterns doesn’t fit too well with minimalistic design, so you shouldn’t count on this trend lasting into next year.

Dark Colors

A dark kitchen, a popular 2019 design trend.

Perhaps influenced by the blues and grays of Nordic design, dark colors were splashed throughout homes everywhere this year, particularly in kitchens. Edgy shades of black, grey, and blue blended well with metallic and wood accents and preserved that modern and minimalistic atmosphere.

Here to stay?

Dark colors certainly fit the bill for next year, but we also wouldn’t be surprised to see them moving out of favor as people gravitate towards lighter pastels and muted tones—which tend to open up the space a little more than the former.

Stay on Top of the Latest Trends

Whether it’s interior design or the hottest new spots in South Florida, my team is here to make sure that you don’t miss out any of the latest trends. Be sure to stay up-to-date with out blog, and check out my top picks around the area!

Thinking of making the move to South Florida? Browse my buying resources, use my specialized search tool to narrow down your options, and check out my area guides to learn about what life here has to offer. Once you’re ready to get started, I’m just a phone call away.

Buying in the Winter? It’s Easier than You Think!

access_timeNovember 11, 2019personScott Patterson

Many people believe that have to buy or sell their homes during the peak real estate season—but this is a common myth that you shouldn’t fall for! When you live in sunny South Florida, buying a home in the winter can be a breeze. It may come as a surprise, but here’s why you shouldn’t let the season stop you from buying.

Less Competition

When it comes to real estate, supply and demand is the name of the game. Most people are looking to buy a home from May to August, but don’t fall prey to all the hype. In Florida’s hot market, it’s easy to be swept away by the competition. If you want to move during peak season, be prepared to be outbid and go against thousands of other buyers.

Want to take things at your own pace? Buying in the winter allows you to peruse the market without rushing. Homes sit on the market for much longer, so you won’t have to schedule a showing the day the home lists (unless you want to!). Less competition also means less stress, which will make the process that much simpler.

Prices Are Lower

As I mentioned before, lower demand means a higher supply. When it comes to real estate, that means buyers have more room to negotiate a lower price with motivated sellers. This is definitely the case in the winter—although you’ll have fewer homes to choose from, you could get a great deal that you wouldn’t find during the summer.

On average, home prices take the biggest dive in January, with November and December close behind. You can save tens of thousands of dollars if you time your move right—and sellers are often eager to work with a motivated buyer.

More Flexibility

Agent and client looking over a contract

Imagine not having to compete with hundreds of other people to book a moving company, find a lawyer to handle the closing, and handle all the other details of buying a home. Buying in the winter means you can avoid all of these hassles, which will make a stressful process a whole lot smoother.

Because fewer people are making a move during the colder months, you might even get a deal on a moving service. And because you’re in the South Florida area, you won’t have to deal with inclement weather or tons of snow! Even real estate agents are less swamped during his time of year, so there’s a good chance that your home search will be a breeze.

Thinking About Buying in the Winter?

There are so many reason to consider buying your next South Florida home during the colder months. Ready to take your next steps? Give me, Scott Patterson, a call. I’m here to be your all-in-one South Florida resource, and I have tons of buyer info to help you navigate the process. Just give me a call with any questions—I’d love to chat!

Find a Home for Fido: The Top Pet-Friendly Properties in South Florida

access_timeSeptember 4, 2019personScott Patterson

Pets play a pretty important role in our lives. In fact, 68% of households in the country own a pet! Since so many people have a four-legged family member, it makes sense that you’d want to move somewhere that works for them, too.

Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful South Florida homes and condos that are not only pet-friendly, but also surrounded by resources like dog parks, pet stores, and groomers. Take a look at a few of the top pet-friendly communities in the area, and let me know when you’d like to see a few listings in person!

Diplomat Oceanfront

The Diplomat is a high-rise, oceanfront building in Hollywood, filled with resort-style amenities and stunning views. The building is pet-friendly, so you’ll be able to enjoy it all with Fido by your side!

Just north of the building, you’ll find the Hollywood Dog Beach, which is open on the weekends and features some pretty prime beachfront, all for your four-legged friend. An added bonus: on your way home from the beach, you can also swing by the nearby Pet Supermarket and pick up a few treats!

Trump Royale

A 55-story condo tower that juts out above the rest of Collins Avenue, the Trump Royale building offers a lifestyle like no other, including luxurious amenities, oceanfront views, and pet-friendly units.

You won’t have to wander far from home to find some green space for your pup. Heritage Park is just a stone’s throw away and features a leash-free dog zone, perfect for making a few new friends. If your pet needs a little style boost, Le Chien’s grooming services are just down the road!

Golden Pointe

Located in Aventura, Golden Pointe is a gated townhome community perched along the Intracoastal Waterway. Not only do these homes offer plenty of space for your pet to roam around in, but you’ll also have a slice of outdoor patio space, as well!

When it comes to location, pet owners won’t find a much better option than the townhomes at Golden Pointe. Just down the road from the neighborhood is the Waterways Dog Park, which features 1.5 acres of off-leash space, doggie water fountains, and a shaded patio. Take a two-minute trip north of the park, and you’ll find all of the supplies you need at Petco!

For a local shopping option, Aventura Pups is a few extra minutes away.

Harbourwood Villas

A laid-back, townhome-style village, Harbourwood Villas is home to beautiful properties, coveted amenities, and either canal-front or garden-front views. It’s the perfect place to raise up your four-legged friend!

Just minutes away from your front door, you’ll find ample wide-open green space at Joseph Scavo Park, including a dog park area for both large and small dogs, and Petco is just down the road!

Find Your Home in South Florida

Whether you’re moving with your four-legged friend or not, you’ll find plenty of top-notch home options in South Florida, from luxurious condos to expansive townhomes. Take some time to explore the area and neighborhoods, and narrow down your search.

Ready to get started or need a few recommendations? Just give me a call!

Scott’s Picks: Your Personal Guide to Luxurious Beach Living in Bal Harbour

access_timeAugust 29, 2019personScott Patterson

Luxurious Beach Living in Bal Harbour includes gorgeous beachfront condos.

Bal Harbour is one of South Florida’s premiere destinations for upscale waterfront living. With plenty of communities to choose from, there are a wide variety of options to explore.

Each area has its own lifestyle and perks, so it may seem hard to find the perfect place. Don’t worry, though—I’ve got extensive guides to the ins and outs of all of the top communities. Let’s check them out!

Balmoral

Luxurious beach living in Bal Harbour involves living in buildings on the coast.

Looking for a waterfront condo with 360 degree views of the ocean? Then Balmoral may be the spot for you. Towering 21 stories above Collins Avenue is Balmoral, a tight-knit condo community that faces sandy beaches and is close to amazing shopping and dining opportunities.

Units in Balmoral range from 1,300 to 2,000 square feet, so you’ll be able to find a layout that best suits you. You’ll also find fantastic amenities, such as multiple parking spaces, marble flooring in every unit, swimming pools, a library, and a fitness center.

Looking for things to do near Balmoral? I recommend the Bal Harbour Shops, situated a stone’s throw away from the community. You’ll find stores like Louis Vuitton and Tory Burch, as well as restaurants like Makoto and Carpaccio.

Bellini

If you’re looking for an expansive, high end condo with beachfront views and proximity to some of Bal Harbour’s best amenities, the Bellini community is a perfect fit.

Situated on Collins Avenue, you’ll find yourself immersed in the best that Bal Harbour has to offer. With units varying from 2,918 – 9,000 square feet, Bellini has a floor plan for everyone. These condos offer more space than most, so if you’re looking to spread out and relax by the beach, you have to explore these units.

Amenities include a fitness center and custom-designed spa, a residents-only cafe, Italian gardens, concierge and valet services, and a heated pool.

One Bal Harbour

Searching for some of the highest standards of luxury living in Bal Harbour? Look no further than One Bal Harbour, a master-planned condo community that commands gorgeous beachfront views.

This 26-story luxury condo building on Collins Avenue is truly made for those with the most discerning taste. Units here range from 510 – 8,000 square feet, which means you’ll find some of the most diverse options. Bal Harbour One offers its residents room service, valet parking, concierge, pet care, and a 10,000 square foot Guerlain spa.

One of the biggest perks of One Bal Harbour is its five-star restaurant. That’s right—to experience Bal Harbour’s best cuisine, you won’t even have to leave the community! Check out Artisan Beach House’s locally sourced cuisine today—and if you live there, you can eat it any time you want!

St. Regis

Luxurious beach living in Bal Harbour means having access to the beach whenever you want.

New construction, gleaming towers, beachside views, and enviable amenities: all of these things can be found at St. Regis. This newer condo community offers access to both the Atlantic and Intercoastal Waterways.

There are plenty of different units to choose from in St. Regis. This condo community has units from 1,310 – 14,100 square feet, so from penthouse to one bedroom, you’ll find exactly what you’ve been dreaming of. Amenities include a full health and fitness center, stunning beachfront views, fully landscaped grounds, concierge and security services, and massive balconies.

One of the unique perks of the St. Regis is its Bar and Wine Vault. If you’re seeking an experienced sommelier to introduce you to some of the best wines, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more.

Ready to find your next dream beachfront condo?

Real estate agents finding clients the best deal.

If you’re looking to kickstart your luxurious beach lifestyle, it’s time to contact a Bal Harbour area expert. I’m Scott Patterson, and I have the tools you need to find your dream condo. Beachfront living is only a phone call away, so contact me now with any questions you may have. Don’t wait—the sun and sand is only a few clicks away!

Need more advice on buying or selling your home in South Florida? Explore my website to get started!

Life on the Beach: 5 Reasons to Invest in Beachfront Real Estate in South Florida

access_timeJune 21, 2019personScott Patterson

Do you dream of waking up, rolling out of bed, and heading outside to feel the sand between your toes? If you’ve longing for your own little piece of paradise—one that’s steps away from the beautiful crystal waters of the Atlantic Ocean, then now is your time to buy a beachfront property.

There’s no better place to buy it than South Florida. Here, you’ll discover a wide variety of towns and communities beckoning you to come and visit. Whether you want to live right on the beach in a beautiful single-family home, in a stylish condo with an oceanfront view, or in a community with deep water access, you’ve come to the right place.

Still need convincing? Here are five reasons to buy a beachfront home in South Florida.

The Lifestyle Amenities

One of the most straightforward reasons to buy a home on the beach is, well, the beach! Whether you’re seeking a vacation home for the summer or a year-round estate, living on the beach comes with so many beautiful perks.

Sunrises and sunsets just got a million times prettier, and you’re minutes away from your favorite aquatic recreational opportunities. What’s not to love about living on the beach?

The Convenience

Living close to the beach—especially in South Florida—also means living close to a wealth of other attractions in the area.

Depending on which specific beach you chose, you’re likely just a short drive away from entertainment venues, golf courses, shopping centers, parks, and the bustling center of Miami.

Every Day Will Feel Like Vacation

Have friends coming over to hang out? Take them to the beach. Need a day to yourself to relax and unwind? Grab a beach towel, a book, and some sunscreen. Want to go for a walk along the shore at sunset? The world is your oyster!

Having the beach as your backyard will make every day feel like its own little vacation. In a world as busy and action-packed as the one we live in, this is the ultimate blessing.

The Property Values

Property values for beachfront homes are only going to increase—making now the time to invest. In a few years, your property will likely be worth much more than you paid for it.

Income Potential

If you’re looking for a beachfront property as a second home, you have the potential to turn it into a source of supplemental income.

Plan on only staying at the beach for a month or so? Use the other weekends to rent it out to vacationers on AirBnB or VRBO. This is a great way to earn some extra money every month, which you can then use to make additional mortgage payments or fix up the property.

Ready to Take the Plunge in South Florida?

There are a million and one reasons to buy a home in South Florida, and the beach is only one of them. Come explore everything this amazing area has to offer, and find your dream home today.

Want to get started now? Give us a call so we can help you find the property that’s just right for you.

First-Time Buyers: A Guide to Finding Your Dream Home in South Florida

access_timeMay 7, 2019personScott Patterson

Even for seasoned real estate investors, buying a home can be a challenging process. From the initial search to figuring out the right mortgage options to navigating closing paperwork, buying a home comes with a long list of to-dos. For first-time buyers, the purchasing process can be both stressful and intimidating.

Are you looking for your first home in South Florida and feeling a little overwhelmed? Don’t worry—my team and I are here to provide you with all of the resources you need to find real estate success.

Narrow Down Your Search

Take a minute to think about your dream home. Is it located right on the beachfront with easy access to waterfront recreation? Does it have a large, private backyard with plenty of room to roam? Or perhaps it comes outfitted with the latest in smart home technology?

Whatever is most important to you in a dream home is completely up to you, but my team can help you narrow down your options. Our specialized search tool was made specifically to help buyers search homes based on certain criteria, so give it a try!

Still need some inspiration since it’s your first time buying? Check out my featured listings ,and see what catches your eye.

Explore South Florida Areas

You might not initially think so, but finding the right neighborhood is just as important as finding the right home. South Florida is made up of a wide collection of communities, each offering different benefits, from active nightlifes to easily commutable locations.

In the end, narrowing down the ideal neighborhood is a lot like the home search process; it’s all about what’s most important to you. Are you more concerned about the lifestyle of a neighborhood or the location? Would you rather be closer to the beach or your workplace?

Luckily, you don’t have to hit the streets and explore your options for yourself. My team and I offer a variety of in-depth guides to each community around South Florida, so be sure to take advantage of our browsing resources.

Figure Out Your Finances

One of the trickiest parts of buying a home—especially for first-time buyers—is figuring out your finances. After all, you need to find a trusted lender, decide which mortgage options work best for you, and calculate your budget for monthly payments.

Since I’ve been working around South Florida for years, I can help you find the best lenders with the best rates in the area. I also offer a number of helpful financial calculators that allow you to get a better grasp on what your payments might look like. And when it comes to deciding on mortgage options, my team can help you determine which choice fits your needs.

Get Answers to Your Questions

If it’s your first time buying, you’re probably going to have a fair number of questions about the process. Not only is that expected, but I have plenty of resources—from FAQs to exclusive buying guides—made to help you get some much-needed answers.

Still not finding what you’re looking for? Don’t hesitate to reach out and give me a call or send along an email. With over 20 years of experience in the area, I’m more than happy to break down the intricacies of buying in South Florida.

Find Your Dream Home with the Scott Patterson Group

Buying your first home can be a daunting process, but when you work with the Scott Patterson Group, you’ll be taken care of. With years of experience, a wealth of local knowledge, and a wide variety of professional skills, my team has everything you need for a successful South Florida real estate experience.

Ready to get started on finding your dream home or have a few questions about local real estate? Don’t hesitate to give me a call!

Planning Your Move: 5 Relocation Tips to Make Your South Florida Move Easier

access_timeMay 6, 2019personScott Patterson

A man using a wheel of tape to seal up a moving box.

Sometimes, a little change of scenery can do us good!

If you’re planning an upcoming move to Miami-Dade or Broward County, congratulations! This is a wonderful area for so many reasons, and we’re thrilled that you’ve decided to call it home.

Once you’ve bought your Miami-Dade dream home, it’s time to plan for the tricky part: relocating. We’re here with five relocation tips to make your upcoming move a little easier.

Tip 1: Start Early

As early as you can. Ideally, you should start planning for your move when you start the process of selling your current home.

First, go through all of your belongings to determine what you can sell, donate, or throw away. Reducing your belongings will make moving much easier—after all, it’s less stuff to pack!

Also, begin getting together moving supplies as early as you can. Gather boxes of all sizes, packing tape, labels, and other packing materials like bubble wrap.

Tip 2: Label By Room

A living room with a sectional sofa, shag rug, and glass coffee table.

If you have the time, pack up one room at a time. Come up with a system of labels so you know which boxes belong to which room.

Try to start with a room you don’t use as often, and work your way through the remaining rooms as you approach moving day.

Tip 3: Pack Fragile Items with Towels & Clothing

If you have a lot of fragile items, try to pack them with softer things like clothing and towels. This will save you money on additional packing materials and cushion your more delicate belongings.

Be sure to carefully label your fragile boxes. In addition, remember the golden rule of packing: the heavier the item, the smaller its box should be. This will save you some back pain!

Tip 4: Enlist Your Friends and Family to Help

A young couple sitting on the floor next to their moving boxes.

Let’s face it: professional movers are expensive. Plus, their rates tend to increase substantially during the warm summer months.

If you’re planning an upcoming move to South Florida, see if you can persuade your friends and family members to help you out! Offer them food, drink, and maybe even some money to give you a hand lifting boxes and organizing your belongings.

Tip 5: Pack an “Emergency Bag”

Load this with everything you’re going to need right away. This includes:

Any medication
Your cell phone
Your cell phone charger
Any emergency contacts not saved on your cell phone
If you’re traveling with pets, their vet records
Cash and other valuables
Snacks
Instant coffee or an energy drink
A change of clothes

Looking for Additional South Florida Relocation Help? We’ve Got Your Back

Give us a call today to explore your home-buying options in South Florida, or to get an expert’s help with relocation. As your Miami-Dade and Broward County real estate professionals, we’re here to help you with any and every detail relating to your home purchase.