Kerry Veach, Owner/Broker RE/MAX Souther Realty - Destin Florida homes for sale, Destin Florida real estate

More Destin, FL Luxury Homes in ARMS

October 26th, 2012

Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMS) are making a revival with buyers of luxury homes in Destin, FL thanks to rates lower than fixed-rate mortgages.

ARMS are a unique loan program that can be risky but perfect for the right buyers.  Typically they come with a fixed rate for about five years, then adjust up to a certain percent each year thereafter.  ARMS account for 30-40 percent of private jumbo loans at Bank of America, and closer to half at NASB Financial.

The average rate on a 5/1 ARM – where the rate adjusts annually after five years – is 2.82 percent.  The average rate on a 30-year fixed is 4.06 percent.  The ARM saves borrowers over $90,000 in interest on a $1.5 million loan.

Why the sudden increase in popularity?

With the announcement of a third run of quantitative easing and the Fed’s committment to purchase $40 billion of mortgage backed securities each month, it’s unlikely that rates will see a significant increase anytime soon.  As a result, affluent homebuyers with a high net worth feel there is limited risk with this particular loan program.  Even if rates did suddenly spike, these individuals have enough liquidity to quickly settle the remainder of the debt before they incur any problems.

If you would like to search luxury homes in Destin, FL, contact Kerry Veach.  Kerry is an experienced Realtor who can help you buy or sell Destin, FL real estate.  With over 1,000 closings and a full-time real estate team, it’s no wonder that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

 

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net

 

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Halloween Events in Destin, FL

October 19th, 2012

Halloween is just around the corner, so here’s a list of “spooktacular” halloween events in Destin, FL this weekend and next!

 

Monster Paddle

When:  October 20

Where:  Harborwalk Village at 10 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL

What:  Get costumed up and grab your paddles for a YOLO board race starting at 10am.

 

Pumpkinpalooza

When:  October 26 – 28

Where:  Harborwalk Village at 10 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL

What:  On Friday at 8pm, relive the classic “Rocky Horror Picture Show” on the HarborWalk Village stage.   On Saturday at 7pm, watch the Pumpkin Pardi Parade, then at 9pm you can enter the adult halloween costume contest.  On Sunday, starting at 2pm, brings the kids out for some trick-or-treating.  Costume contest for the little ones begin at 4pm.

 

Trick or Treat Street at Baytowne

When:  October 31

Where:  Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort at 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy., Destin, FL

What:  Gather friends and family and head out for fireworks, trick or treating and shopping through the village streets from 6 – 8:00 pm.

                                                                                                                                                          

As always, if you or anyone you know would like to buy real estate in Destin, FL, or sell a home in Destin, FL, contact Kerry Veach online or call him directly at 1.800.879.0309. With over 1,000 closings, 20+ years of experience and a full-time real estate team, it’s no surprise that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

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Keep the Lights On to Conserve Energy…Sometimes

October 5th, 2012

Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

If your parents were anything like mine, then you grew up in a home conscious of energy conservation.  These messages were embedded into our brains via simple four-word phrases, such as “Stop cooling the neighborhood!”, “Quit running the water!”, and “Turn off the lights!”

While the first two are still good practices, the last one might need an upgrade.  As counter intuitive as it may feel, certain light bulbs conserve more energy by being left on.

When your parents were concerned about saving electricity (and money), it was because incandescent lighting was (and is) highly inefficient.  90 percent of energy is emitted as heat, leaving only 10 percent for light.  Halogen lighting is a little more efficient than this, but not nearly as good as CFL’s and LED’s.

Compact Fluorescent Lighting has far more advanced technology than its predecessors.  You can generally extend the life of a CFL bulb by leaving it on, as opposed to simply using it less.  This is because CFL’s use more energy to power up, so just leave the light on if you plan to leave a room for less than fifteen minutes.

Light Emitting Diodes have a completely different set of rules.  These bulbs are unaffected by the number of times switched on and off.  They also reach maximum power almost instantly, unlike other bulbs which have some degree of delay.  However, the lighting capability of LED’s are not as effective as CFL’s.

To get more energy (and money) saving tips, make sure you check the Veach View Blog frequently.  And as always, if you or anyone you know would like to buy real estate in Destin, FL, or sell a home in Destin, FL, contact Kerry Veach online or call him directly at 1.800.879.0309.

With over 1,000 closings, 20+ years of experience and a full-time real estate team, it’s no surprise that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

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Make the Move

September 28th, 2012

If you’ve been on the fence about selling your home in Destin, FL, now may be the best time to make the move…and here’s why:

  • Low Inventory

Currently, there is a very short supply of homes which is not only driving up property values – it’s also reducing your competition.

 

  • High Demand

There might be a short supply of available homes for sale in Destin, FL but there is no short supply of eager buyers, ranging from experienced investors to rookie first-timers.

 

  • Low Interest Rates

Can mortgage rates get any lower?  I highly doubt it…and I highly doubt that it’s possible for them to stay so low for much longer.  Don’t wait for them to increase and reduce the number of qualifying buyers.

 

  • Streamlined Transactions

Whether it’s a short sale or a traditional sale, transactional procedures and processes are much more efficient now than they were a few years ago.

 

  • Moving Up

Home affordability is at an historical high, which means now really is a great time to make the move!

If you’re interested in selling or searching homes in Destin, FL, contact Kerry Veach.  Kerry is an experienced Realtor who can help you buy or sell Destin, FL real estate.  With over 1,000 closings and a full-time real estate team, it’s no wonder that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

 

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Save Power in your Home Office

September 21st, 2012

Destin, FL homeowners can always benefit from ways to save electricity, and one area of opportunity for huge savings is in a home office.  If you have a home office, then where you are saving on gas you could be losing on electricity if you don’t have an ENERGY-STAR computer and/or laptop.

ENERGY-STAR equipment uses up to 65 percent less power than older equipment.  In addition to purchasing energy efficient computers, it’s also advisable that you plug these units into a power strip so they can be turned off easily.  Otherwise, they will continue drawing current and wasting electricity (known as “vampire” loads).

One outdated notion is that leaving your desktop computer on is better for the machine, making it last longer.  This was true years ago with larger mainframe computers, but it is not at all the case now.  You can, however, adjust your computer’s power management settings on the cpu and monitor to use less energy while the unit is running.

If you’ll be in the market for a new purchase soon, look at laptops instead of desktop units.  Desktops use considerably more electricity than laptops, and the mobile feature of the laptop means that you are running on battery power instead of your home’s electrical current.  Here’s a helpful tip:  It’s recommended that you only plug your laptop in to charge the battery – not only will this save energy, it will also extend the life of your battery.

Make sure you check the Veach View Blog frequently to get more energy (and money) saving tips.  And as always, if you or anyone you know would like to buy real estate in Destin, FL, or sell a home in Destin, FL, contact Kerry Veach online or call him directly at 1.800.879.0309.

With over 1,000 closings, 20+ years of experience and a full-time real estate team, it’s no surprise that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

 

Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Capital Gains Tax Going Up- Selling in 2012 vs 2013

September 18th, 2012

Section 1031 exchange of the Internal Revenue Code will defer an estimated $3.2 billion in capital gains and recaptured depreciation taxes for individuals and corporations in 2012 according to the Joint Committee on Taxation. The tax deferral is estimated to be $3.7 billion and $4.1 billion in 2013 and 2014 respectively. What do these taxpayers have that you may not?
• Conscious competent investment or commercial realtor, CPA, real estate attorney, title officer or financial advisor who listens and asks questions.
• A clear understanding of the value of a 1031 exchange.
• Real and personal property held for productive use in a business or for investment.
What is the Impact of a 1031 Exchange?
Section 1031 exchange of the of the Internal Revenue Code states, no gain or loss is recognized when property held for productive use in a business or for investment is exchanged for property held for productive use in a business or for investment. Simply put, property either real or personal such as investment rental and commercial property, land or aircraft, vintage cars, precious metals held in a business or for investment is eligible for a tax deferral on the gain triggered when sold given like-kind property is replaced within 180 calendar days.
The tax deferral represents an indefinite, interest free loan until the replacement property is sold or stepped up to heirs upon death, in which case, depending upon the circumstance, may eliminate the deferred tax. The 1031 exchange defers the federal and state capital gains and recaptured depreciation tax that can represent upwards of 40 percent of the sales price. Imagine being given an interest free loan on land with an original purchase price of $150,000 and $100,000 of improvements depreciated over ten years sold with eight percent selling expenses.
State Tax Estimated Tax
Sales Price 300,000 400,000 500,000 700,000
Alabama 5.00 16,109 34,509 52,909 89,709
California 9.55 18,946 41,532 64,118 109,290
Florida 0.00 12,991 26,791 40,591 68,191
Iowa 8.98 18,591 40,653 62,714 106,837
Kansas 6.45 17,013 36,747 56,481 95,949
Kentucky 6.00 16,733 36,053 55,373 94,013
Montana 6.90 17,294 37,442 57,590 97,886
Nebraska 6.84 17,256 37,349 57,442 97,628
W. Virginia 6.50 17,044 36,824 56,604 96,164

The tax deferral is even higher with collectibles given the capital gains rate is 28 percent versus 15 percent. Effective January 1, 2013, the federal capital gains rate is scheduled to increase to 20 percent with an additional 3.8 percent for taxpayers with income greater than $200,000.
What are the 1031 Rules?
There are many. A qualified intermediary is required who cannot be someone or firm you have worked with in the two year period prior to the exchange such as your lawyer, CPA or realtor. There are exceptions to what is known as disqualified persons. The titleholder who sells is the titleholder that buys. The replacement property value must be equal to or greater than the property sold. The exchange must be completed within 180 calendar days of the initial closing. Property must be formally identified to the Qualified Intermediary by the 45th calendar day post-closing. If selling or acquiring from a related party, then there are special rules to follow. The taxpayer cannot pledge, borrow or receive a benefit from the proceeds while they are held in the exchange.
To receive a complimentary eBook on “Ten Reasons Why a 1031 Exchange Makes Sense” either click on the button below or contact our office at 800.227.1031 or andgus@atlas1031.com.

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The Great Emerald Coast Open House

September 14th, 2012

The Emerald Coast Association of Realtors (ECAR) will be holding The Great Emerald Coast Open House this Sunday, the 16th, from 1:00 – 3:00pm.  At this time, home sellers will open their homes to the public for viewings.

The Emerald Coast, located in Northwest Florida, is a popular vacation destination that attracts approximately 4.5 million visitors a year.  Cool white beaches and emerald-green waters attract all ages year-round, with about 80% of these visitors going to Destin, FL.

Being crowned “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”, deep-sea fishing is also a huge attraction that has brought in many awards and salt-water records.

And if that wasn’t enough to give this beautiful region boasting rights, the Emerald Coast was also the filming location for portions of The Truman Show, Jaws 2, and Frogs.

For those who want to appreciate all the natural beauty this area has to offer, there are four renovated beachfront parks – Beasley Park, James Lee Park, Marler Memorial Park and Wayside Park.

If you would like to search Emerald Coast homes, contact Kerry Veach.  Kerry is an experienced Realtor who can help you buy or sell real estate in Destin, FL.  With over 1,000 closings and a full-time real estate team, it’s no wonder that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

 

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Tankless Water Heaters

September 7th, 2012

The traditional method of heating water involves a large storage tank that requires a great deal of electricity to be kept warm.  Tankless Water Heaters – also called Instantaneous or Demand Water Heaters – only heat water as needed which eliminates the need for a storage tank.

These units have gained increased popularity as Destin, FL homeowners look for ways to save electricity and reduce utility bills.  Other applications for Tankless Water Heaters include use with:

  • Remote BBQ or outdoor sink
  • Poolhouse or pool shower
  • Remote bathrooms or hot tubs
  • Solar water heating systems
  • Dishwashers and sanitation

A Tankless Water Heater can save Destin, FL homeowners 27 – 50 percent on water heating costs.  If you plan to purchase an Electric Tankless Water Heater, you’ll need to consider the following electrical requirements:

  • Voltage
  • Amperage
  • Circuit Breaker

Next, you’ll need to consider size and location.  These factors can be discussed with the manufacturer you are purchasing from and/or the contractor that will perform the installation.  Note: proper installation is critical to the proper operation of these units, so do not attempt on your own unless you are a professional.

Make sure you check the Veach View Blog frequently to get more energy related news and money saving tips.  And as always, if you or anyone you know would like to buy a home in Destin, Florida or sell a home in Destin, Florida contact Kerry Veach online or call 1.800.879.0309. With over 1,000 closings, 20+ years of experience and a full-time real estate team, it’s no surprise that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

 

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How to Prepare Destin FL Homes for a Blackout

August 31st, 2012

With Hurricane Isaac having passed, I’d like to take this opportunity to help residents prepare their Destin homes for a blackout in the future.

  • Flashlights

Keep plenty on hand…ideally one in every room.  This is a MUCH safer alternative to candles.

  • Batteries

Those flashlights won’t do a lot of good without any batteries.

  • Bottled water

In the event you lose your running water, you’ll be happy to have gallons of water on hand.

  • Ice

Keep bags of ice in a freezer so that when the power goes out, you can transfer this ice and food into coolers

  • Coolers

Speaking of coolers, have plenty of those on hand too.  The cheap, styrofoam coolers will work just fine.

  • Emergency Numbers

Make sure all of your emergency numbers are accessible so that, if needed, you can call from your cell phone.

  • Car and USB chargers

If you have a garage and a car that will charge even when off, have a car charger on hand to charge your cell phone.  If not, use a USB to charge your phone on your laptop (for the time that your laptop holds a charge).

  • First Aid Kit

Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked and easily accessible.

  • Back-up generator

Ideally, this is a great thing to have.  However, it may not be enough to power your home in severe weather, so don’t develop a false sense of security if you own one.  Make sure you still prepare using the above bullet points.

From one Destin, FL resident to another…stay safe out there!

These tips have been provided by Kerry Veach.  Kerry is an experienced Realtor who can help you buy or sell Destin, FL real estate.  With over 1,000 closings and a full-time real estate team, it’s no wonder that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

 

 

 

 

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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Moving Checklist

August 3rd, 2012

Moving to Destin, FL is like a long-term vacation.  However, every move (no matter how desirable the destination) presents challenges.  Fortunately, these challenges can be limited with the proper planning and organization.

  • Sort

Moving provides a great opportunity to start fresh.  The mistake many people make is moving the junk with them.  This can make the move more stressful and overwhelming than it needs to be.  For this reason, I recommend sorting your belongings into three different groups:

  1. Items that can be donated to Goodwill.
  2. Items that are broken or damaged and will go into the trash.
  3. Items that will make the move with you.

If you are having trouble deciding whether or not to keep something, imagine yourself packing it, moving it, unpacking it, and placing it in your new home.  Is it worth the effort?

  • Label

Make sure you categorize your boxes by room and write the appropriate room on each box.  If multiple rooms are being combined into one box, make a general list of items going into the box.  This will make the first morning in your new home easier when you are looking for something specific…like the coffee brewer.

  • Prioritize

When you load items onto the truck, prioritize the boxes by loading the less important items first and the most important items last.  When you unload, you’ll have access to the most important items first.

Ready to make your move?  If so, contact Kerry Veach to search homes in Destin, FL.  Kerry is an experienced Realtor who can help you buy or sell Destin, FL real estate.  With over 1,000 closings and a full-time real estate team, it’s no wonder that 95% of Kerry’s business comes from referrals.

 

 

Image(s): FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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