Favorite Local Places • February 13, 2025

Why Move to Niceville?

by Cindy Zimmermann

Moving to a new place can be both exciting and overwhelming. If you’re considering making Niceville your new home, let me tell you “Why Move to Niceville”! This charming city is known for its friendly community, low crime rates and excellent schools. Niceville, FL, offers a variety of benefits that make it an attractive place to live:

Community Events

Niceville has a strong sense of community, and you’ll quickly feel at home with the friendly residents. Don’t be surprised when people say Hello to you at the local grocery. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year. These events are a great way to meet new people and get involved in the community. Here are just a few:

Veteran’s Day Parade: This parade was a welcome addition in 2024 as a way to recognize and honor our Veterans.
Christmas Parade: The Niceville Christmas Parade is a festive event that brings the community together to celebrate the holiday season with floats, music, and Santa Claus.
Easter Egg Hunt: Held at the Niceville Children’s Park, this event is a fun-filled day for families with children, featuring egg hunts, games, and prizes.
Fourth of July Fireworks: The Independence Day celebration includes a spectacular fireworks display over Boggy Bayou, along with family-friendly activities and live entertainment.
Niceville Farmers Market: Held regularly, the farmers market offers fresh produce, local honey, handmade goods, and local crafts. It’s a great place to support local vendors and enjoy the community atmosphere. You can even pick up some fresh steaks for dinner.
Concerts in the Park: During the summer months, the city hosts free concerts in the park, featuring local bands and musicians. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a relaxing evening outdoors.
Library Events: The Niceville Public Library hosts various events, including book clubs, movie matinees, and educational workshops. It’s a great resource for residents of all ages.
Mattie Kelly Arts Center Events: This performing arts venue hosts a variety of events, from Broadway shows to concerts and art exhibits.

Top-Rated Schools

Niceville is known for its excellent school system. The Okaloosa County School District boasts some of the top-rated schools in the state. Whether you have young children or teenagers, you’ll find quality education options that cater to all age groups. The local college, Northwest Florida State College, offers a collegiate high school where high schoolers can earn the AA and high school degree at the same time!

Low Crime Rates

Niceville was ranked as the safest city in Florida by SafeWise in 2022 and 2023/

Recreational Activities

One of the best things about living in Niceville is the abundance of recreational activities. From the beautiful parks and nature trails to the stunning beaches just a short drive away, there’s always something to do. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, tennis, pickleball and golfing. The Turkey Creek Nature Trail is a local favorite for hiking and birdwatching. The Niceville Children’s Park is a popular place to play and picnic. Rocky Bayou State Park is popular for the trails, camping and water activities. There are several places in town to launch a boat and plenty of bayous and the Choctawhatchee Bay to enjoy.

Location

Niceville’s location is another major perk. You’re just a short drive away from the beautiful beaches of Destin. This proximity allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds – a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with easy access to bustling coastal cities. Niceville is also convenient to Duke Field, Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field

New Development

Niceville is on the cusp of an exciting transformation with the new “Old Town Landing” project. This six-acre waterfront area will feature a New Orleans/Mobile/Old Pensacola-inspired design, focusing on wind resistance and energy efficiency. The development will include a mix of commercial spaces, boutique stores, and an events center, creating a vibrant downtown area for residents to enjoy.

In addition to the downtown development, Niceville is also planning a new waterfront park on Bayshore Drive. The park will feature a pier, seven boat slips, a pavilion, and a variety of amenities such as a splash pad and a small beach area. This new park will provide a beautiful space for families and individuals to relax and enjoy the waterfront.

Senior Life

Niceville has a fabulous Senior Center that provides health, social connection, and support services. There are also both independent and assisted living facilities.

Real Estate Market

The Niceville real estate market offers a variety of options, from cozy single-family homes to luxurious waterfront properties. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, you’ll find something that fits your needs and budget. Niceville is historically a stable market which makes it a great place to purchase a home. (If you’re thinking about buying then give me call – I’ve lived in Niceville for 25 years and along with my husband, raised our 5 children here.)

Final Thoughts

So, why move to Niceville? Moving to Niceville is a decision you won’t regret. With its welcoming community, excellent amenities, and beautiful surroundings, it’s a place where you can truly thrive. You don’t have to just take my word for it: According to Niche, it is ranked as the #1 Best Place to Raise a Family in Okaloosa County. If you have any questions or need assistance with your move, feel free to reach out. Welcome to your new home!

Real Estate Tips • January 27, 2025

Top Tips for Homebuyers: Making Smart Moves in Today’s Market

by Cindy Zimmermann

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned home hunter, navigating the real estate market can be challenging. Here are some Top Tips for Homebuyers for Making Smart Moves in Today’s Market:

**Research the Market**

Stay informed about current market conditions in your desired area. Look at recent sale prices, market trends, and future growth prospects. Knowledge is power, and understanding the market will give you an edge during negotiations. A good realtor will be able to help guide you on a fair price.

**Define Your Budget**

Determine your budget before you start house hunting. Consider all expenses, including down payments, closing costs, moving expenses, and potential renovations. Stick to your budget to avoid financial stress down the line.

**Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage**

A pre-approval letter from a lender shows sellers that you are serious and financially ready to buy. It also gives you a clear idea of how much you can borrow, narrowing down your search to homes within your price range. Most home sellers in our area ask for this to accompany any offer. Again, reach out to your realtor to recommend some great local lenders.

**Prioritize Location**

Location is key when buying a home. Consider proximity to work, schools, public transport, amenities, and future development plans in the area. A great location often means better investment value over time.

**Consider Your Future Needs**

Think about your long-term plans and how this home will fit into those. Are you planning to start a family? Will you need a home office? Make sure the property you choose can accommodate your future needs.

**Work With a Real Estate Agent**

An experienced real estate agent can provide valuable insight and support throughout the buying process. They can help you find properties, negotiate deals, and navigate the paperwork, ensuring a smoother experience. Even if you are a seasoned buyer, realtors do this on a daily basis and stay up on the latest laws, contracts, and market trends.

**Inspect the Property Thoroughly**

A comprehensive home inspection is crucial! It can uncover potential issues that might cost you later. Hire a professional inspector and be present during the inspection to ask questions and get a clear understanding of the property’s condition. The cost of an inspection is usually way less than what it can save you. Often times you can negotiate to have the seller complete repairs for items found on the home inspection. Not to mention, you may be eligible for home insurance discounts based on the home inspection.

**Stay Patient and Flexible**

The process of buying a home can take time. Stay patient and be prepared to compromise. If a deal falls through, keep looking. The right home is out there waiting for you. Make sure you decide which items are “must haves” and which ones are “would like to have”.

**Plan for Closing Costs and Moving Expenses**

Don’t forget to budget for closing costs, which can include legal fees, taxes, and lender charges. Additionally, plan for the cost of moving, setting up utilities, and any immediate repairs or renovations needed. Let your agent know if you will need to negotiate with the seller to assist you with closing costs.

**Look for Assumable Mortgages**

In our area, there are a lot of sellers who managed to score a loan while interest rates were historically low. It may be possible for you to score by assuming their loan and low interest along with it. Ask your real estate agent for details on this process.

Armed with these top tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make a smart move into today’s market. Happy house hunting! 🏡🔑

—

Local Charity Spotlight • January 16, 2025

Things We Take for Granted

by Cindy Zimmermann

In our daily lives there are so many things we take for granted. One of those things is having a bed to sleep in every night. Several years ago, as I was scrolling through Facebook, I started to see posts from an organization called “A Bed 4 Me”. These posts were of children receiving a new bed. I continued to see these posts over the next several months and I thought to myself, “How is it possible that so many children in our area don’t have a bed?”

Sadly, there are!

“A Bed 4 Me” started as a coffee shop conversation. Some women having a discussion and coming to the same realization that I had seeing those posts. Deciding that they needed to do something about the heartbreaking situation, they contacted a similar organization in another state. In 2016, they started a chapter of this organization in Okaloosa County. They credit the generosity of local people and a local business, Skipper’s Furniture Store, with their early success. They were on a mission to do something so simple, yet so important; provide beds for children who did not have an adequate space to sleep.

In 2018, they decided to step things up a notch and run the organization like a business. They incorporated and became their own 501(c)(3). They also started applying for grants. In 2019, they applied for and won $100,000 from Impact 100 (another local nonprofit). This grant allowed them to purchase a delivery van. Prior to the van purchase, they had to rely on volunteers who had a truck available to make deliveries.

In 2021, they felt they were ready to take on Walton County as well. Since they began, they have provided 3,200 beds. To me that is a staggering number of children without a bed in our local area. More applications come in on a regular basis as more people become aware of the Foundation.

So how does it all work? Sometimes “A Bed 4 Me” receives a referral or someone fills out an application on their website. They contact the family and make a visit to the home to verify the need. There is no income verification or qualification. Only a need qualification. During this visit they also talk to the child and find out what they like. Once verified, they deliver a new bedframe, mattress, pillow and bedding. The bedding selection is based on what they learn about the child’s interest.

A lot of thought has gone into what they do. Not only do they individually select bedding, but they also chose a bed frame that easily folds up. This allows a parent or guardian to take the bed without them if they have to move. This is important because a child can only receive a bed one time from “A Bed 4 Me”. Children ages 2 –18 living in Okaloosa or Walton County are eligible.

Diane Freeman is a founding member of this Foundation. I asked her to share a story with me that sticks out in her mind. She said that there were many, but she shared this one. She told me about a single mom with 2 boys. This mom was working 2 jobs to support them. They were sleeping on a mattress on the floor. This mattress was one that the mom found on the side of the road. I honestly cannot imagine picking up a mattress on the side of the road and taking it home for my children to sleep on. My only thought is that it must have been better than what they already had. When the boys’ beds were all set up, one of them started jumping on the bed saying, “I’m so happy!”. The mom said that he had never said anything like that before. Then the mom proceeded to move a chair between their beds and said that now she could sit between them and read them a bedtime story.

Again, things a lot of us take for granted.

These beds not only provide the children with a clean comfortable place to sleep. They provide them with a space that is theirs. Bedding picked just for them brings joy and excitement!

So, how can you help? Of course, monetary donations are always helpful. You can make a donation right on their website. You can also donate new standard size pillows. New Twin Sheets or Comforters in solid colors are also accepted. Only new bedding is acceptable. Every child deserves new. The reason for the solid colors is so that it can be paired with either sheets or a comforter picked specially based on each child’s interests.

Please join me in supporting this organization. Help those that do not even have simple things that we take for granted.

Uncategorized • January 2, 2025

What does the future hold for the 2025 Real Estate Market on the Emerald Coast?

by Cindy Zimmermann

What does the future hold for the 2025 Real Estate Market on the Emerald Coast? In order to answer this question, we need to first look at where we ended 2024. Caution: I’m about to hit you with some nerdy statistics. (If you want the summary – skip to the end). I’m going to look at single family home sales (including townhomes) in Okaloosa County and also Niceville. I will leave condos out of the data since they are a completely different animal.

Okaloosa County

The median sales price in December 2024 was $330,750, down -8.02% from $359,588 from the previous month and equal to December 2023. The average sales price in December 2024 was $410,328, down -10.46% from $458,284 from the previous month and -15.67% lower than $486,575 from December 2023.

The number of properties sold in December 2024 was 272, up 5.43% from 258 from the previous month and 9.24% higher than 249 from December 2023.

The average days on market (DOM) is the number of days a property is on the market before it sells. An upward trend in DOM tends to indicate a move towards a buyer’s
market, a downward trend tends to indicate a move towards seller’s market. The DOM for December 2024 was 84 days, down -9.68% from 93 days from the previous month and 37.70% higher than 61 days from December 2023. The December 2024 DOM was at its highest level compared with December 2023 and 2022.

The number of properties for sale in December 2024 was 1,019, down -14.15% from 1,187 from the previous month and equal to December 2023. The December 2024 inventory was at its highest level compared with December 2023 and 2022. A comparatively lower MSI is more beneficial for sellers while a higher MSI is better for
buyers.

Niceville 32578

The median sales price in December 2024 was $408,000, down -18.38% from $499,900 from the previous month and -18.38% lower than $499,900 from December 2023. The December 2024 median sales price was at its lowest level compared to December 2023 and 2022. The average sales price in December 2024 was $545,976, equal to the previous month and -4.18% lower than $569,805 from December 2023.

The number of properties sold in December 2024 was 38, down -2.56% from 39 from the previous month and 52.00% higher than 25 from December 2023.

The average days on market (DOM) is the number of days a property is on the market before it sells. An upward trend in DOM tends to indicate a move towards a buyer’s market, a downward trend tends to indicate a move towards seller’s market. The DOM for December 2024 was 54 days, down -34.94% from 83 days from the previous month and 50.0% higher than 36 days from December 2023. The December 2024 DOM was at its highest level compared with December 2023 and 2022.

The number of properties for sale in December 2024 was 111, down -15.91% from 132 from the previous month and 15.62% higher than 96 from December 2023. The December 2024 inventory was at its highest level compared with December 2023 and 2022. A comparatively lower MSI is more beneficial for sellers while a higher MSI is better for buyers. The December 2024 MSI of 2.92 months was at a mid-level compared with December 2023 and 2022.

The Bottom Line Summary

What does the future hold for the 2025 Real Estate Market on the Emerald Coast? Based on what happened post-election and based on the Fed pulling back on the number of predicted interest rate cuts for 2025, I would expect 2025 to be only slightly better than 2024. Home prices will see a slight increase (let’s face it, inventory is still low). Sellers will continue to offer concessions because of the days on market. Interest rates will be only slightly better than last year. Sellers should list sooner knowing that it may take longer to sell. They should also be realistic about pricing. Buyers should look for homes with an assumable mortgage with a nice low interest rate.

Real Estate Tips • Uncategorized • December 11, 2024

Tips to Sell Your Home in a Competitive Market

by Cindy Zimmermann

Selling a home in a competitive market can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can make your property stand out and attract serious buyers. Here are some tips to sell your home in a competitive market:

1. Price It Right from the Start

Set the right price – not too high, not too low, but just right (Goldilocks would be proud). Overpricing can scare off buyers, while underpricing might leave you shortchanged. Do your homework and consider a professional appraisal to hit that sweet spot.

2. Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions are everything! Make your home’s exterior so inviting that buyers will want to move in before they even step inside. Keep the lawn tidy, trim those bushes, and add some colorful plants. A fresh coat of paint on the front door and sparkling clean windows can work wonders. They say it takes only 8 seconds for a buyer to decide if they are attracted to your home or not. It will certainly take the agent at least that long to open the lockbox. Meanwhile the buyers are checking out your exterior!

3. Stage Your Home

Staging is like setting the scene for a blockbuster movie. Declutter, depersonalize, and arrange furniture to highlight your home’s best features. If you need help, a great real estate can guide you – they’re the directors of home presentation!

4. Professional Photography

High-quality photos are your home’s glamour shots. Good realtors will hire a professional photographer to capture your home in the best light. Make sure to include photos of key areas like the kitchen, living room, and master bedroom – the stars of the show.

5. Market Effectively

Get the word out! List your home on popular real estate websites, use social media, and consider virtual tours. Hosting open houses can also attract more potential buyers. I will do all that for you. I will do targeted advertising. Not to mention retargeting. Think of it as your home’s red carpet event.

6. Be Flexible with Showings

Make your home available for showings at various times, including evenings and weekends. The more accessible your home is, the more potential buyers can view it. Flexibility is key – think of it as your home’s open-door policy.

7. Highlight Unique Features

If your home has special features like a renovated kitchen, energy-efficient appliances, or a beautiful backyard, shout it from the rooftops! Make sure to highlight these in your listing and during showings. Unique features are your home’s secret weapons.

8. Work with a Real Estate Agent

A knowledgeable real estate agent is like your home-selling sidekick. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate the selling process. From pricing to marketing, negotiations to closing the deal, they’ve got your back.

9. Make Necessary Repairs

Fix any obvious issues before listing your home. Small repairs like leaky faucets, broken tiles, or peeling paint can make a big difference in how buyers perceive your property. Think of it as giving your home a little TLC.

10. Be Prepared to Negotiate

In a competitive market, buyers may come with various offers. Be prepared to negotiate and consider all offers carefully. Your agent can help you evaluate each offer and decide on the best course of action. Negotiation is the final act – make it a good one!

Follow these tips to Sell Your Home in a Competitive Market!

Local Charity Spotlight • November 21, 2024

Who is Impact 100?

by Cindy Zimmermann

Who is Impact 100 of Northwest Florida, Inc.?

The concept is simple: 100 women donate $1,000 each, creating a $100,000 high-impact grant. This grant enables a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Okaloosa or Walton County to achieve extraordinary things. Membership is open to all women over 18, including those who live outside of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Importantly, 100% of each member’s contribution is awarded to nonprofit organizations, with no administrative costs deducted. The more members we have, the more grants we can give.

Who can receive the $100,000 Grants?

Established 501(c)(3) nonprofits, except those whose primary purpose and use of grant funds are for religious or political activities, in Okaloosa and Walton Counties are eligible for grants. Grant applications are accepted for projects in five focus areas:

Arts and Culture
Education
Environment, Recreation & Preservation
Family
Health and Wellness

Impact100 NWF members collaborate to decide which nonprofit projects receive funding through our grant process.

Who received the grants for 2024?

5 transformational $100,000 grants given to five amazing nonprofits.

Arts & Culture Category–Destin History and Fishing Museum

Education Category–Emerald Coast Autism Center

Environment, Recreation & Preservation Category–Gulfarium C.A.R.E Foundation

Family Category–The Arc of the Emerald Coast

Health & Wellness Category–Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Inc.

How involved is membership?

Membership involvement can be as little as donating your money and nothing more. Every member gets to vote to decide which application finalists receive the grant. If you would like to be more involved, you can participate by being on one of the grant committees. These committees review the application and have an opportunity to visit the nonprofits in person to learn more.

Where can I find out more?

You can find out more by visiting the website. Starting in January, Impact 100 will host membership recruitment events at various locations all around Okaloosa and Walton County. I would invite to come a bite, a drink and to find out more!

So, who is Impact 100? Impact 100 is a group of women pulling their resource to make an impact on the community they live in. Impact100 NWF believes that collaborative and informed financial giving makes a significant difference in the lives of others and enhances the well-being of our region. We support nonprofit organizations, advance responsible giving, and serve as an example of effective philanthropy. Imagine the possibilities when we come together, determined to make a difference.

Join us and make an IMPACT in your community!

Real Estate Market Status • November 7, 2024

What does the Niceville Real Estate Market Look Like Post-Election?

by Cindy Zimmermann

The election is over! I think that no matter who you voted for there is some sense of relief that the election is over. Many people have been holding their breath on a lot of things including buying and selling real estate. So, what does the Niceville Real Estate Market look like post-election?

Historically real estate sees a temporary slowdown as buyers and sellers wait for clearer policies on taxes, interest rates, and housing regulations. Niceville has been no except this year. Now that the election is over, we might see a gradual return to normal activity levels as the market adjusts to the new administration’s policies. Based on the reaction of the stock markets, I would expect us to see a busier housing market in Spring 2025!

Hold up a minute though. While we may be recovered from election fatigue by spring, the fact still remains that housing prices in our area are keeping a lot of people out of the market. According to the National Association of Realtors, the first-time homebuyer market share decreased to a historic low of 24% (down from 32% last year), while home buyers’ ages hit all-time highs of 56 years overall (49 last year).

Some people think that we will see a market crash. The simple fact remains though that nationwide we are short about 42 million houses. So again, it’s simple supply and demand. Niceville is quickly running out of land for new housing developments. The latest ones (Addie’s Place, Eagles Landing and Deer Moss Creek) are almost complete. The Niceville City Manager, David Deitch, is actively looking into acquiring land for housing. The Okaloosa County Commission is set to discuss a potential land deal with Eglin Air Force Base to acquire land immediately west of Northwest Florida State College. The goal is to develop affordable housing options in the area.

What about interest rates? As I write this, the Fed is meeting, and we are expecting and hoping for a 1/4 percent rate cut. Daco expects that the Fed will cut rates by an additional 0.25 percentage points at every meeting through June 2025! Fingers Crossed! Of course, mortgage rates aren’t determined by the Fed. They are heavily influenced by Treasury yields, which go up and down based on economic expectations.

What does the Niceville Real Estate Market Look Like Post-Election? The answer is cautiously hopeful!

Real Estate Tips • October 31, 2024

Top Mistakes made by First-Time Home Buyers

by Cindy Zimmermann

Buying a home for the first time is a huge milestone. It is exciting but it can also be a little nerve wracking. Let’s look at some of the top mistakes made by first-time home buyers make and what you should do instead.

Don’t Skip Important Steps

While you may be eager to have a place of your own, be sure to take your time. Before you even begin browsing online, you’ll want to first save for the different homebuying costs, such as a down payment. Give yourself at least a year to do so. Focus on improving your credit and paying down debts to boost your chances of getting better terms for your mortgage.

When you’re ready to begin your home search reach out to a real estate agent. An agent can connect you with some great local mortgage lenders. Those lenders can walk you through the loan process and provide information on additional expenses. One of the most common mistakes first-time homebuyers make is getting too focused on the down payment and monthly mortgage payments. There are many other costs involved in the process you don’t want to be caught unaware of. For instance, closing costs, including appraisal fees, inspection fees, and attorney fees, are typically 3 to 6 percent of the loan amount.

Lenders can also provide you with a preapproval letter so that you know how much you can realistically afford. This will give your agent a clear idea of what homes to show you within your budget. Preapproval letters are often requested to accompany any offer to a seller to demonstrate your ability to get the loan.

Not budgeting for ongoing costs

As a new homeowner, you’ll need to pay for maintenance, repairs, property taxes, and utilities. To avoid putting yourself in a financial bind, make sure to factor in these extra costs when determining how long and how much you should save before beginning the homebuying process and how to structure your future budget.

Not Looking Beyond the House

Too often, buyers fall so in love with a house that they fail to look at anything else, such as the neighborhood, school district, or local amenities. When evaluating a potential home, look into the quality of the neighborhood by visiting at different times of the day. Talk to potential neighbors to get an idea of what it’s like to live in the area. If you have children or plan to have them in the future, check which schools the neighborhood is zoned for and how well they’re rated.

In addition, consider the proximity to essential locations like grocery stores, hospitals, as well as local recreational opportunities like parks and restaurants. If you work on-site somewhere, calculate your potential commute times by driving the route at various points throughout the day. By weighing these components in addition to the house itself, you can ensure long-term satisfaction with your new home and the area it’s located.

Skipping a home inspection

Though you may be tempted to forgo the home inspection to save money or speed up the buying process, this mistake could cost you in the long run. A professional home inspection can protect you as a buyer by revealing issues with the property that might not be visible during a normal walkthrough. These can range from minor repairs (e.g., loose doors or missing handles) to major structural problems (e.g., a cracked foundation) that could cost thousands of dollars to fix. I always recommend investing in a home inspection, even on new construction. You can make the contract contingent on inspections and ask for the seller to make needed repairs.

Letting emotions drive your decision

Buying a home can be an emotional process. It’s easy to get overly attached to a property and make a hasty decision. Letting your emotions drive your purchase can lead to regret later. Instead, do your best to remain objective and consider all the practical aspects of the home. Consider its condition, location, and price. This is a huge financial commitment after all. This is where you agent can be your unbiased opinion. A good realtor can help you take a moment to compare different properties and weigh the pros and cons of each.

As you’re preparing to purchase your first home take your time. Be sure to work with a trusted real estate agent throughout the process. This can help ensure that you don’t make the Top Mistakes made by First-Time Home Buyers.

Uncategorized • October 15, 2024

To Stage or Not to Stage

by Cindy Zimmermann

When selling a vacant home, a big question is to stage or not to stage. When selling your home, you’re essentially auditioning for buyers—and like any good audition, you want to leave a lasting impression. So, should you leave the house bare like a “before” photo on HGTV, stage it with real furniture like you’re hosting an open house for the royal family, or get all techy and virtually stage it like you’re selling a house in The Sims?

Leaving the Home Vacant – No Staging

Pros:

No Furniture to Break: Look, if there’s no furniture, no one can spill coffee on it, right? Stress-free living (well, for you anyway).
Buyer’s Imagination: They can imagine the space however they want! Maybe they see a cozy living room, maybe a ball pit. Who knows? The sky’s the limit!
Cheaper than a Cup of Coffee: You don’t have to spend a dime on furniture or decorators. You just need a broom and some hope.

Cons:

Echo… Echo…: A vacant home can feel eerily empty, like a haunted house, minus the ghosts. Not exactly cozy.
Room-Sizing Gymnastics: Buyers might start wondering if their king-sized bed will fit in the bedroom or if they need to downsize to a toddler bed.
Flaws on Display: Every scratch, dent, and creaky floorboard is just waiting to shout, “Hey, fix me!” Nothing to hide behind here.

Staging with Actual Furniture

Pros:

Instant “Wow” Factor: A beautifully staged home makes buyers swoon. It’s like putting on your best outfit for a date—you want to impress, not show up in sweatpants.
Room Functionality 101: You’re basically saying, “Hey, this is a dining room, not a ping pong arena.” You know, in case they were confused.
More $$ in Your Pocket: A well-staged home can make buyers think, “This place is worth every penny… and maybe a few more!”

Cons:

Cha-Ching: Renting furniture and hiring a stager isn’t cheap. And suddenly, that cute armchair in the corner is costing more than your Netflix subscription for a year.
Logistical Circus: It’s like moving twice—furniture in, furniture out. You may find yourself making furniture arrangements more than dinner plans.
Maintenance Mania: You’ll be that person saying, “Take your shoes off!” at every showing. And praying no one knocks over that very fragile (and expensive) decorative vase.

Virtual Staging

Virtually Staged Room No Staging - Room feels cold

Pros:

Cheap and Cheerful: No need to hire movers or rent furniture. Just let a designer with Photoshop skills do their magic—boom, your home looks like a million bucks (virtually).
Unlimited Makeovers: Want a chic modern look? Done. Prefer rustic farmhouse? Easy. Want a life-sized Tyrannosaurus Rex in the living room? Probably not recommended, but hey, it’s possible.
No Furniture, No Fuss: Since it’s all digital, you won’t have to worry about someone knocking over a lamp or scratching the floor. Perfect for the clumsy among us.

Cons:

Virtual vs. Reality: The pictures online look like a magazine spread, but when buyers walk in, it’s a little more minimalist (a.k.a. empty). Could be a bit of a letdown.
Surprise!: Buyers might feel like they’ve been catfished if your virtually staged home looks like a chic penthouse online but turns out to be an IKEA puzzle in real life.
No Tactile Experience: As nice as virtual staging is, buyers still can’t plop down on that perfectly placed sofa and imagine a Netflix marathon.

Which is Better?

Vacant Homes: Best if you’re going for that “modern art gallery” look or want buyers to focus on the potential. Just pray their imagination is top-notch.
Staging with Actual Furniture: This is the “all in” option. It’s like dressing your home in designer clothes, but remember, designer prices often follow.
Virtual Staging: Ideal for giving buyers a “look but don’t touch” experience. Just be ready for the awkward conversation when they ask, “So, where’s that couch I saw in the photos?”

So, to stage or not to stage your vacant home? In the end, whether you leave your house as a blank canvas, dress it up with actual furniture, or go virtual, the key is to help buyers see it as their future home! Not sure what it best for your home – Call me, I can help!

Real Estate Market Status • October 7, 2024

Unicorn Home for Sale in Niceville

by Cindy Zimmermann

I have a unicorn home for sale in Niceville. So, what makes it a unicorn? This is the only home in all of Niceville that is located in Sandy Acres Subdivision. Where is that you ask? On Ruckel Drive. Wait, isn’t Ruckel Drive located in the subdivision of Rocky Bayou Country Club Estates? The answer is yes with the exception of this home.

What’s the big deal about that? Well, this home is not subject to the HOA rules and fees like its neighbors. However, it enjoys the benefits of being surrounded by homes that are subject to the HOA rules.

This is fabulous home that has been very well maintained. The home has also had some important updates done. If you or any one you know is looking for a new home, I would love to show you this one.

Call me to see this Unicorn Home for Sale in Niceville!

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Unicorn Home for Sale in Niceville

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