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.

The Top Romantic Spots in South Florida

access_timeFebruary 19, 2020personScott Patterson

Valentine’s Day might already be over, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late to really wow your special someone. If you’re on the hunt for the most romantic spots in South Florida, here are a few places you just have to visit. Get ready to experience sparkling coastlines, unbelievable restaurants, and endless entertainment!

The Rusty Pelican

Picture this: you’re relaxing on the coast with your special someone, enjoying an amazing meal and breathtaking views. If this sounds like your dream date, it’s time to head to The Rusty Pelican. This stylishly updated landmark has been a Miami favorite for years, and there’s no better place to discover some of Florida’s best seafood.

Wondering what’s on the menu? Expect to see plenty of American fare, all with a Miami twist. You can never go wrong with the Atlantic salmon or the Rusty Pelican board for two. If you want to add a little decadence, consider signing up for their exclusive champagne and caviar tastings!

The Kampong

Open to the public by appointment only, The Kampong is an awe-inspiring tropical botanical garden that you won’t want to miss. This hidden hem is tucked into the Coconut Grove neighborhood of Miami, and now is the time to schedule your visit.

You and your date will be whisked away on a magical journey—either with or without a docent—surrounded by Florida’s native tropical flora. Guided tours last for about an hour, but you can also schedule a self-guided tour and take as long as you’d like. Be sure to check out The Kampong’s calendar of events, too. There’s always something fun going on!

Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina

If your date is a foodie at heart, Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina is the place for them. This fine dining experience is a love letter to the American steakhouse experience, with a few exciting twists thrown in. Chef Michael Mina’s legendary artisanal flavors pepper every dish to perfection…but the steak is absolutely indulgent.

Just head to Miami’s JW Marriott Turnberry Resort & Spa to start your culinary journey. Diners can enjoy a whiskey cart, world class seafood and steak, as well as a broad selection of cocktails. Don’t forget dessert, too—their beignets are phenomenal!

A Coastal Stroll

Couple exploring romantic spots in South Florida

When in doubt, South Florida’s beaches are a fantastic backdrop for a date, even in the winter. Looking for recommendations? You can never go wrong with Sunny Isles Beach, which features miles upon miles of pristine coastline. For a less commercialized experience, Dania Beach is the way to go.

If you’re looking for the ultimate blend of entertainment and beachside fun, just head to North Miami Beach and start exploring. Here, you’ll find plenty of activities, restaurants, and coastal excitement to fill an entire weekend. Top spots include Haulover Park and St. Bernard de Clairvaux.

Uncover More Romantic Spots in South Florida

South Florida has so much to offer, and I’d love to give you some of my personal picks. I’m Scott Patterson, your local real estate expert. If you’re getting ready to buy or sell your home, let me handle all the details. Just drop me a line with any questions—I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Have Some Fun at the Top 5 Winter Events in South Florida

access_timeJanuary 27, 2020personScott Patterson

Can you believe the holidays are finally over? Although the hustle and bustle of the festive season might be gone (for now), the fun never ends when you live near Miami! Ready to get out of the house and enjoy some of the best winter events in South Florida? Here are a few that you won’t want to miss.

Dania Beach Vintage Motorcycle Show – January 25th

Woman on motorcycle driving to Winter Events in South Florida

It doesn’t matter if you’re a dedicated motorhead or a casual enthusiast—you won’t want to miss this spectacular display of vintage bikes! Just head to Dania Beach’s Frost Park to watch the festivities unfold all morning and afternoon.

Not sure what to expect? Here, you’ll find more than a few collectors and riders showing off their favorite motorcycles. If you have a bike of your own, you can even enter it into the competition to see how you stack up or participate in the annual parts swap. Of course, there will also be plenty of live music, food, games, exhibits, and more.

The Century Celebration – January 31st

Football players running to Winter Events in South Florida

If you’re a die-hard football fan, we have the perfect event for you. Come rub shoulders with some of the NFL’s top hall of famers at the Century Celebration, a charity event that supports the Ray of Hope Foundation.

Now is the time to grab your tickets for the event, which takes place at Hollywood’s illustrious Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. If you’re lucky, you might even run into Ray Lewis, Deion Sanders, Joe Montana, or your favorite player! There’s nowhere else in the city where you can have fun and meet football’s biggest stars, all while supporting a good cause.

CanadaFest – February 7th

Maple syrup and hockey are probably the first things you think of when Canada comes to mind, but this country has so much more to offer. Southern Florida’s unique Canadian population is eager to share their culture with our community, and you’re invited to join in! Come learn more about our northern neighbors at CanadaFest, an all-day celebration hosted by Le Soleil de la Floride.

Hollywood’s ArtsPark will act as the center for all the festivities—and there’s no better spot to sample some of Canada’s best beer, wine, and food. Younger attendees will also love the exciting games and live music, too.

Dania After Dark: Artwalk & Street Festival – February 8th

Have you been searching for an event that’s free, pet friendly, and fun for all ages? Look no further than the Dania After Dark Street Festival, which takes 1st Street by storm all year long. This is the number one place to get to know Broward County’s finest creators—and they’ll have plenty of unique wares for sale.

Take a drive to Downtown Dania Beach every second Saturday of the month to experience this community extravaganza for yourself. There’s something exciting in store for everyone—even the area’s younger residents! Live music, vendors, food trucks, and plenty of art will also be on display for you to enjoy.

Discover More Winter Events in South Florida!

Ready to uncover even more of the best winter events in South Florida? We have you covered! Come check out our personal picks on our event page or give us a call for some recommendation. As always, we’re here to help you with all of your real estate needs!

4 Bigger Budget Projects That Increase Your Home’s Value

access_timeJanuary 21, 2020personScott Patterson

Tackling a big renovation can be hard, especially if you don’t know what to expect. However, larger makeovers can definitely be worth the time and money, especially if you want to increase your resale value. Not sure which improvements are worth it? Before you pick up that hammer, check out our list of bigger budget projects to see which ones will pay for themselves!

Updating Your Kitchen

Let’s face it—kitchens sell homes. If your space feels stuck in the early aughts, now is the time to give it a complete facelift. In fact, sellers can expect to see almost a 93% return on investment after tackling a total kitchen remodel. However, the key to making the most off of your improvement is considering the cost of materials versus actual value you’re getting back.

Most buyers are looking for pretty standard upgrades, such as granite countertops, plenty of light, and newer appliances. Unless you plan on staying in your home for a long time, big splurges (like custom cabinets or gourmet appliances) might not be the best way to maximize the value of your kitchen.

Improving Your Bathroom

Bathroom renovation, one of the bigger budget projects

As the years go on, buyers are expecting more and more from their bathrooms. Nowadays, it’s not just about toilets and showers! In an ideal world, your space will have a stunning vanity, all new tile, and sparkling finishes. And if you have an ensuite, a huge closet and a soaking tub with have buyers’ jaws on the floor.

If all of this sounds overwhelming, you might want to narrow your bathroom renovation down to a few key upgrades. You can promote function by adding extra storage in the form of a vanity or linen closet. For a dash of luxury, consider installing some designer light fixtures or putting in a separate shower and tub. When in doubt, adding some fresh paint and tile can always do the trick, too!

Sprucing Up Your Curb Appeal

When it comes wowing buyers, it’s crucial to start off with a great first impression. The exterior of your home is the first thing people see when they drive up, so you’ll want to get it up to snuff with the rest of your place. Even if you aren’t planning on selling any time soon, boosting your curb appeal will give you the prettiest house on the block!

Get ready for flowers, bushes, and shrubs—adding some landscaping is the easiest way to make your exterior pop. If you really want to go the extra mile, consider replacing your walkway, painting your front porch, or even resodding your lawn. All of these little touches can turn into a big project, but they really do pay for themselves.

Adding a Pool

If you own a home in Florida, you might want to consider adding a pool if you don’t already have one. In most other American cities, having a private swimming space won’t yield a return—but our market is a bit different.

Over half of all newly sold Miami homes have pools, and that number jumps to nearly 90% when you reach a luxury price range. Although having your own spot to swim does cost a pretty penny, South Florida is one of the only places in the country where building one is totally worth it.

Getting Ready to Tackle Some Bigger Budget Projects?

If you’re getting ready to renovate your home before you list, we’re here to help you out! As South Florida real estate experts, we know which bigger budget projects are worth it…and which ones you might want to avoid. Looking for more seller resources? Just drop us a line—we’re always here to answer your questions!

The Top New Restaurants in South Florida You Won’t Want to Miss

access_timeJanuary 16, 2020personScott Patterson

The Sunshine State is known as a hallmark of culinary innovation, and one visit to the Miami area is all it takes to send your tastebuds to a new dimension. While it might seem like a different eatery is popping up on every corner, there are a few newcomers to our area’s restaurant scene that you won’t want to miss. Here’s our round-up of the best new restaurants in South Florida.

Gregory’s Diner

There’s something truly wonderful about enjoying your favorite comfort food. Although diner fare isn’t exactly high cuisine, Gregory’s is here to change your perspective. The team behind Mandolin Aegean Bistro is expanding their culinary footprint with Gregory’s, which features dishes inspired by their grandparents. You won’t find another restaurant in Miami that features classic club sandwiches and caviar service!

CHICA Miami

Tacos at New Restaurants in South Florida

Lorena Garcia, a finalist from Top Chef Masters, has returned to Miami to showcase her finest bites. CHICA’s second location on 4th Street has amassed quite a crowd—and one visit is all it takes to understand the hype. Diners love the unique takes on Latin American cuisine, which includes everything from ceviche to arepas.

Le Jardinier

Smoothie bowl at New Restaurants in South Florida

Ready to explore some of the best vegetarian cuisine, all with a French twist? Local produce is the star at Le Jardinier, where the atmosphere is as lush as the fresh bok choy. After finding success in New York, master chef Alain Verzeroli decided to bring his one-of-a-kind flavors to Miami—and Floridians have welcomed him with open arms.

Merci

Gyro at New Restaurants in South Florida

Head to Downtown Hollywood’s Restaurant Row to experience everything Merci has to offer. This eatery might seem like a club, but the shish kebabs and lamb chops simply can’t be beat. The $50,000 marble dance floor is another luxe touch that you won’t find anywhere else!

GoGai

Andrew Gong and Niti Masintapan are back with another addition to their Go restaurant lineup, and it’s the best place in Hollywood to sample some Thai street favorites. Although there are only 21 items on the menu, it’s easy to find something new to try. Locals absolutely love the larb gai!

Sidecar Speakeasy

Get ready to celebrate the Roaring Twenties—Sidecar Speakeasy will have you feeling like a flapper or a gangster. Valeria and Clayton Chelley are no strangers to the restaurant world, and their latest Prohibition-style offering is one of Hollywood’s top spots. However, you’ll have to get the secret door code by calling the bar or checking out their social media!

The Best New Restaurants in South Florida Are Waiting…

Thinking about making a move to the Northern Miami area? While you’re exploring some of the best new restaurants in South Florida, you might also want to scope out a new place to live! Luckily, we have all the resources you need to find your dream home—and they’re all just a click away. Just give us a call if you have any questions!

6 New Year’s Eve Parties & Celebrations Around South Florida

access_timeDecember 13, 2019personScott Patterson

Every time we cross into a new year, it’s a special occasion, but this year, we won’t just be entering into a new year—we’ll also be kicking off a new decade.

As we say goodbye to the 2010s, it’s a great time to reflect on the changes and growth that this decade brought…but it’s also the time to celebrate what the 2020s have in store! Wondering what sort of New Year’s Eve celebrations are happening around the communities of South Florida? Here’s your quick guide.

Fontainebleau’s New Year’s Eve with the Jonas Brothers

The Jonas Brothers, this year's headliner for Fontainebleau Miami Beach's New Year's Eve event. — Photo courtesty of hollywoodreporter.com

When: December 31st, 9pm

Where: Fontainebleau Miami Beach

What: Every year, Fontainebleau Miami Beach brings in a big name artist for 21-and-over New Year’s Eve celebration. This year, the Jonas Brothers will be hitting the stage and playing poolside all night long! There are a variety of ticket packages available, including reserved tables right by the action, and a family experience area for guests under 21. The base ticket for premium admission also includes access to an open bar!

A Night of Elegance

A man wearing a tux for a New Year's Eve event.

When: December 31st, 8:00pm

Where: Leona’s Palace, Hollywood

What: If you’re looking to ring in the New Year in style, then A Night of Elegance is the red carpet event you’ve been waiting for. Live music will be provided by Gairy Sweetness, DJ Squeeze & DJ Capone, and complementary glasses of champagne will be distributed before the midnight countdown.

Bayfront Park New Year’s Eve

When: December 31st, 8pm

Where: Bayfront Park, Miami

What: One of the largest free dance parties in the city and home of the “Big Orange” drop, the Bayfront Park New Year’s Eve event consistently tops lists as one of the best celebrations in the country of its kind. In addition to the free celebration, Miami local Pitbull will be hosting a VIP event at the park, filled with gourmet food, craft cocktails, and live music from Mr. Worldwide himself.

New Year’s Eve at GG’s Waterfront

Four glasses of champagne served for a New Year's Eve event.

When: December 31st, 4pm

Where: GG’s Waterfront

What: This year, Hollywood’s popular GG’s Waterfront restaurant will be serving up their five-star seafood and waterfront views all day long. Early dinner kicks off at 4pm with a chef’s prix fix, and a Gala party will be held at 9pm, where guests can also enjoy live music, dancing, an open bar, and party favors.

Miami Beach New Year’s Eve Cruise 2020

When: December 31st, 9pm

Where: Anticipation Sternwheeler, 1200 N. Ocean Dr.

What: Celebrate the new year from one of three decks right on the water, as you cruise from Hollywood Beach to Miami Beach on the Anticipation Sternwheeler. Not only will you have prime views of the fireworks all around the area, but you can also enjoy bouncing from deck to deck to enjoy the festivities. On the first deck, you’ll find a DJ and casino games, the second offers dancing and live music, and the third slows things down with fresh air and scenic views.

New Year’s Eve Party at Miami Shores Country Club

A man wearing a suit for a New Year's Eve event.

When: December 31st, 8pm

Where: Miami Shores Country Club

What: Bottomless bubbles, an open bar, fresh seafood, delicious desserts, party favors, live music—Miami Shores Country Club is pulling out all the stops for their New Year’s Eve bash. It’s sure to be equal parts elegant and exciting!

Ring in the New Year in South Florida

New years are for new beginnings…and what better way to start anew than by finding a home in South Florida? If you’re thinking of relocating to the area, I’m here to help. Take some time to explore my in-depth guides to the area, browse my resources for buyers, and narrow down your options with my specialized search tool. Once you’re ready to take the next steps, I’m just a phone call away!

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.

6 Can’t-Miss Holiday Events Happening in South Florida

access_timeNovember 27, 2019personScott Patterson

If you haven’t pulled out the holiday decor and started playing “Jingle Bells” yet, then you’re going to have to get started soon. November is almost over, and we’re nearly at peak holiday season—and the South Florida area is coming alive with celebrations!

From festive parades to snow-filled festivals, here are the top holiday events to check out around the area this year.

45th Annual North Miami Winternational Thanksgiving Parade

When: November 28th, 10am

Where: Along 125 Street from NE 6 – 12 Avenues

What: Marching bands, giant floats, festive characters—the North Miami Winternational Thanksgiving Parade has been going on for decades and is quite the staple in the South Florida area. If you need some plans on the morning of your Turkey Day, be sure to come out and watch.

North Miami Beach Tree Lighting Ceremony

A Christmas tree with lights on it at a holiday event.

When: December 5th, 6pm – 8pm

Where: City Hall

What: Ring in the start of the holiday season with the rest of the North Miami Beach community at the annual Tree Lighting. Not only can you witness the dazzling lights come alive on this year’s tree, but there will also be Christmas carols and refreshments available. It’s the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit!

Hollywood Beach Candy Cane Parade

A person holding a candy cane beside twinkling lights at a holiday parade.

When: December 7th, 7pm

Where: Hollywood Beach Boardwalk

What: Fun fact: the Hollywood Beach Candy Cane parade is one of the longest running parades of its kind in the entire country. What started as a small gathering in the 1950s has grown to become a tradition for thousands! If you’re curious what sort of floats and entertainment to expect, you can check out a few videos of the previous year’s parades here.

Christmas Near the Beach

When: December 14th

Where: Arts Park @ Young Circle

What: A giant Christmas tree, a Christmas pageant, Santa Claus, live music, dancing, giveaways—Christmas Near the Beach packs all of the holiday highlights you can think of into one event. The celebration lasts for five hours and is totally free to attend, and often brings in several thousands visitors of all ages from around the area.

Snow Fest & Community Safety Day Parade

When: December 14th, 5pm – 11pm

Where: City Hall

What: Snow in Florida? At the Snow Fest celebration—one of the biggest holiday events in the area—anything is possible! Last year, over 10,000 people came out to enjoy the giant snow mountain, rock climbing wall, carnival rides and games, food and drinks, live music, and more. This year promises to be even bigger than the last!

Winterfest Boat Parade

Fireworks over a body of water at a holiday event.

When: December 14th, 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Where: 512 NE 3 Ave., Fort Lauderdale

What: Heralded as “the Greatest Show on H20,” the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade lasts for 2.5 hours and stretches 12 miles along the waters of New River, to the Intracoastal Waterway, to Lake Santa Barbara. The pre-show features tons of non-motorized vehicles, while the main event brings in giant showboats and yachts, each decked out in holiday decor and dazzling lights. You can also expect live music and special guests throughout the night!

Discover Life in South Florida

You don’t have to miss out on celebrating all of the best holiday events—not when you find your home in South Florida! Take some time to get to know a little more about what life here has to offer by browsing my area guides and top local picks.

Once you’re ready to get the ball rolling on your real estate journey, narrow down your options with my buying resources and specialized search tool, and give me a call to get started!

The Best Rainy Day Attractions in the South Florida Area

access_timeNovember 22, 2019personScott Patterson

We might not get typical winter weather in South Florida, but we’re not immune to a chilly rainy day here and there. Luckily, even when the weather doesn’t reflect our reputation as the Sunshine State, you’ll still find plenty of things to do!

Here are the top rainy day attractions around the South Florida area to check out during the next cold snap or downpour.

Dezerland Park

An arcade, virtual reality games, mini bowling, trampolines, a bar and lounge—Dezerland Park is a one-stop shop for all things entertainment. With over 250,000 sq. ft. of indoor space, there’s plenty of room to burn off that rainy day energy.

Perez Art Museum Miami

Miami’s flagship art museum, the Perez Art Museum offers stunning displays of modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. The building itself is quite the sight—designed by Pritzker Prize winning architects Herzog & de Meuron—with sleek and sharp lines jutting out to the waterfront. You could spend a whole day listening to the rain gently fall on the rooftop as your browse the latest exhibits.

Museum of Contemporary Art

If you want to make the art museum rounds, the the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami should be next on your list! The 25,000 sq. ft. building houses a rich collection of sculptures, paintings, and more created by local, national, and international artists. Keep in mind, the main gallery of the museum is closed until November 26th, but will reopen after the installation of two new exhibitions—Cecilia Vicuña’s About to Happen and Alice Rahon’s Poetic Invocations

Frost Museum of Science

A woman standing in front of the glass at an aquarium.

A beautiful new addition Miami’s Museum Park, the Frost Museum of Science stretches across four acres of land, offering a state-of-the-art planetarium and aquarium, as well as six floors of interactive exhibits.

The three-level aquarium mimics the Gulf Stream, with the top floor reserved for creatures of the open water like hammerhead sharks and mahi-mahi, the second floor for colorful parrotfish and damselfish, and the bottom level for fish of the deep—showcased through the breathtaking 30-foot oculus.

Not to be outdone, the planetarium offers an 8K visual system, which is twice what you’d find in a typical planetarium, as well as six 3D-capable projectors and 250 seats. If you haven’t visited the Frost Museum yet, it should be at the top of your list!

Pines Ice Arena

Want to get in the holiday spirit? Spend the day hitting the ice at Pines Ice Arena! The indoor rink hosts public skates sessions every day of the week and offers skate and helmet rentals.

HistoryMiami

HistoryMiami is a Smithsonian Affiliate in heart of downtown that’s committed to sharing and remembering Miami’s past. The museum houses over 37,000 artifacts, dating all the way back to the prehistoric ages, detailing over 10,000 years worth of local history. The current rotating exhibit is all about the highlights of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and you’ll also find collections on the Miami International Airport, the Whitman Family, and the history of our unique local culture.

Boxroom Escape Games

If you’ve never done an escape room before, it’s definitely worth a try—and Boxroom Escape Games was voted #1 in South Florida! Teams can be comprised of 2 – 8 people, and there are six rooms of varying difficulty to choose from. See if you can solve the puzzles and escape in 60 minutes!

Explore Life in South Florida

No matter the season or the weather, you’ll always find something new to explore around South Florida. If you need a few more suggestions for rainy day attractions, check out my top picks for local spots!

Thinking of making South Florida your new home? I can help with that, too! With years of local experience, a wide variety of helpful resources, and a commitment to achieving your goals, I’m here to make sure your real estate experience is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Ready to take the next steps? Just give me a call.

Sell Your Home Fast & for Top Dollar with My Extensive Marketing Plan

access_timeNovember 19, 2019personScott Patterson

Pricing right. Staging for success. Flexibility with showings. There’s a lot that goes into selling a home…but none of it matters if you’re not getting buyers through the door. For that, you’ll need a marketing plan—and an effective one at that.

Luckily, I can help. Over the years, I’ve carefully developed a comprehensive, strategic marketing plan that’s tailored to each of my clients’ needs. If you want to get buyers through your door, here’s how I can help you do it.

Onsite Marketing Plan

Professional staging advice: Homes that are effectively staged not only sell faster than those that aren’t, but also sell for a higher price. I’ll help you create an in-depth, personalized plan to make sure your home looks its best!
Custom property brochures: I’ll create a custom brochure that highlights the best parts of your home. It’s perfect for passing out to potential buyers and other agents!
Buyer/broker prospectus: This packet will contain important info like survey, elevation certificate, maps, brochures, property disclosure and more, all in one convenient place.
Visitor follow-up and thank you card: As long as the buyer is not represented by another Realtor, I’ll be sure to send them along a thank you card after their showing, just to keep your home fresh in their minds.

Professional Photos

A drone hovering above a person's hands.

These days, buyers are more likely to tour a home online before ever seeing it in person. That means your photos can make or break the deal. For my clients, I hire one of the best photographers in the South Florida area, equipped with remote flashes and Photoshop editing to give you the highest quality product.

But it doesn’t stop there! I also utilize top Aerial drone technology to create stunning bird’s eye photos and video tours.

Print Marketing

A pair of glasses sitting on a print publication.

Magazine display ads: Want your home advertised to buyer’s agents in South Florida and beyond? With my marketing plan, you can expect a spot in renowned South Florida magazines and national/international magazines such as Christies International Real Estate.
EWM publications: The Southeast Florida-based EWM Realty has two publications: their “Lifestyle Magazine” and “Casa and Condos.” Both are mailed to specific neighborhoods and homes in the area—and both can feature your property.
Classified ads: Some of the best writers in the area will put words to the magic of your home, creating compelling copy that’ll be placed in papers like the Miami Herald, Sun-Sentinel, and South Florida Business Journal.
Postcards: You never know if anyone in your immediate area knows someone looking for a home nearby! I’ll send out “Just Listed” postcards filled with high quality photos and detailed info to a large radius around your neighborhood.

Email & Web Marketing

People pointing to a home tour on a laptop screen.

Email blasts: Since I’ve been working in real estate around South Florida for years now, I’ve built up an impressive collection of local contacts and potential buyers. I’ll send email blasts to both to make them aware of your property.
Professional video tours: Want buyers to be able to see what makes your home so one-of-a-kind without even leaving their couch? My professional video tours will showcase the finest details of your property.
Domains: I’ve got over 70 active domains on the internet, and I’ll make sure your home is listed on each.
Social media platforms: Google, Facebook, Instagram—I’ll use my established social media platforms to help spread the word about your home. Through increased engagement, you stand to get thousands of extra eyes on your property.

Ready to Learn More about My Marketing Plan?

That’s far from the end of what my comprehensive marketing plan offers. Want to learn more? Give me a call today, and I’d love to talk about what your tailored strategy might look like.

In the meantime, feel free to browse my additional resources for South Florida sellers. Any questions along the way? Just let me know!