European Style 4 story building in the heart of Coconut Grove. Minutes from Metrorail, Downtown Miami, Coral Gables, South Miami and Midtown. This spacious studio has a full size kitchen with stainless steel appliance, washer/dryer and one parking space. Secure building with gated underground garage and 24 hours fitness center.

List price of just $264,900. (owner willing to contribute to closing costs) and also for rent at $1,450.

The difference can be significant. I tested it with my own home and the tax savings shown were over $5,000. If you are interested in seeing it for yourself, click here and you will be directed to the site.

All the best, Leigh

I think that most of us have seen the results of kitchens and bathrooms that have been updated by resurfacing. But how often have you seen the before and after?

One of my listings, a spacious 3/3 in Calusa Club, decided to resurface the kitchen cabinets and change the countertop. The improvement was so dramatic that I had to show it off. It looks like a completely new kitchen and all at a fraction of the cost of a renovation.

Now a once very dated kitchen is one of this homes greatest features.

P.S. - The response was so positive and the cost so low, they are now having their master bathroom done.

Before After

Since the move, my insurance premiums have doubled over and over again. Last year my homeowners insurance company non-renewed my policy and now both home and wind are with the company of last (only) resort. I know, you too. But “did you know” that there are many options available that can help to reduce insurance costs? Since some were new to me, I figured I would share it here hoping that you might also find it helpful.

Depending on the the construction of the home, it may qualify for certain credits or discounts. In this link, Construction Feature Discounts, Citizens Insurance Company outlines the criteria and discount amount by type of feature. There are inspection companies that can check the home to see if it qualifies for these discounts and provide the necessary paperwork required by Citizens to get the reduction. I had this inspection when I bought my home 3 years ago. The cost was $250. and received a 15% discount on my insurance. Well worth it I felt.

There are also several options regarding higher deductibles, reduction of personal property limits and even the replacement cost value of the home. Your insurance agent can provide the details and savings for each. If you feel that your home’s actual replacement cost is lower than what your insurance company is requiring you to carry, these same inspection companies can provide an “Inspection/Valuation Report”. This report is accepted by Citizens and can reduce the amount of insurance required based on the results.

Some of the above options will reduce the amount of coverage you carry, so if you feel that you are sufficiently covered then they may not be an option for you. Additionally, the banks will require that the the insurance is the same or more than the mortage amount. But, if you do feel that you are over-insured then this may be something to look into. We can all use a break…..