Saturday, December 16, 2017

🏡Top 5 Things to Know about Living in Vero Beach 55+ Communities FL

Homes for Sale in Vero Beach 55+ Communities

You may find the idea of settling in a 55+ community appealing!

Builders who offer this type of community continue to grow in numbers. Often
referred to as adult or 55+ communities, these housing options that target this
demographic will help you decide the kind of lifestyle that will make you happy
for the years to come.


Just like every commitment that you need to make, I’ve chosen the following
key things that you need to consider when you want to buy a
home in Vero Beach 55+ communities, FL.

Be aware of their age restrictions

Numerous active adult communities have age limits set at 55 years old, others
set it higher or lower. There’s a reason why Vero Beach is such a popular
retirement destination. They have what it takes to cater to buyers from all
walks of lifestyles.  


There are some neighborhoods that require one of the homeowners to be at
least 55 years old. I can lead you to the homes for all ages and those who
have no limits at all.

Exclusive rules to follow

There is an association that constitutes what’s restricted and the total
structure of the rules. Some of these are:
  • Limit on the number of occupants in the property
  • Non-homeowners access to the community
  • Limit on home customization such landscaping, paint, and
Indoor decorations
  • Acceptable time for visitations from visitors under 18 years old
  • Pet restrictons


Some 55+ communities in Vero Beach, FL have different definitions on what
qualifies a visitation from grandchildren or loved ones. It is always best to
reach out to a community representative or a REALTORⓇ.

Exciting lifestyle

Know if the active adult lifestyle is something that fits your criteria of a new
home. Think of the activities you will enjoy.


For example, Woodfield in Vero Beach is a gated adult neighborhood ideally
located within walking distance to restaurants and shops. Sandy beaches,
scenic golf courses, and fun filled marinas surround the area.


There are also different levels of maintenance that you need to adapt to when
moving to an age-qualified area. Typically, lawn care and outdoor maintenance
are provided.

Vero Beach 55+ Communities FL Homes

Services and fees

Find out if you need to pay monthly or annual fee and compare what they are
and what you get in return.


Some of these are maintenance fees, either budgeted or HOA fees,
amortization fees, utilities, parking fees, and accommodations.

Check out the medical care

Do Vero Beach 55+ communities provide medical services? Indian River
Medical Center is just one of the many medical facilities located here. If there
are no nearby health care centers, check how far you need to travel.

I’ll help you until you find your home!

My name is Karen Mathers and I know there is no single strategy that works
for everybody. This is the reason why I always encourage a meeting so I can
know your plans and personalize the game plan that will work just for you.

Call me at 772-532-3221. It’s time to choose your best home!


In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view 🏡Top 5 Things to Know about Living in Vero Beach 55+ Communities FLon my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/PGravUoVTpY

Friday, November 24, 2017

👉What Should Be Disclosed to Buyers When Selling Your Home

Homes for Sale in Gated Communities in Vero Beach

This will relieve stress and simplify the sale of your home!



The words of a famous Roman philosopher is often quoted, ”Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity!”


When you decide to sell your property in  gated communities in Vero Beach, FL, you’re not only aiming for luck. Through teamwork, we can achieve success in a more timely manner by adding dedication to what we do. And one of the things that makes a worry-free sale is when you follow state and federal regulations on disclosure of known facts about your property’s condition to your potential buyers.

Don’t travel down the road of nondisclosure!



Openness on your home’s condition is the best way to start a healthy seller-buyer business transaction and also the best way to avoid lawsuits, even if disclosure is not required in your state.


  • Water damage/mold. If you have a leaky basement, it’s best to let the buyers know this right away. And if you have already addressed the issue, keep your receipts and hand these to them when needed.
  • Hazardous conditions. Certain states, like Florida, require sellers to alert buyers to the possible danger of wildfires, floods, and earthquakes in the area.
  • Lead paint.  If the property that you’re selling was built before 1978, Federal law requires homeowners to disclose any existing lead-based paint. This is referred to as the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992.
Real Estate Properties for Sale in Gated Communities in Vero Beach
  • Roof leaks or if it needs replacement.  This can be a bit pricey, but it’s better to deal with this before your house is sold than facing lawsuits just because the roof makes the house inhabitable.
  • Foundation cracks, sinking. If the foundation is no longer in safe shape, it will be difficult and unsafe to live in. Buyers look for homes with good foundation repair.
  • Termite damages. Protect yourself from paying for another inspection just because another termite inspection is needed. If your home has been treated for termite damage, it is best to let your buyers know right away.
  • Insurance claims and repairs. You can ask for a CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) report that shows the history of insurance claims for the last 7 years. Disclose if you have made repairs to your home in the past.
  • Possible toxic materials. These are hazardous materials like asbestos, mold, and radon. Your buyers deserve to know if these are present in your home.
  • Number of bedrooms. This has associated to the septic system capacity of a home. If it’s structured to have the capacity for 2 bedrooms and you have 3 bedrooms then you can’t list the home for 3 bedrooms.
  • Homeowners associations. There are buyers who don’t want to be restricted by rules so tell them up front if you have HOA. This could influence their decision if they want to live in this specific community or not.


Other disclosures, however, are not specifically required under our state law with the likes of infection of a previous occupant, deaths, terrible neighbors, or paranormal activity.

Did you find this article helpful?



If you feel like you need to share more information with your potential buyers, we can talk about this. It is my job as your REALTORⓇ to determine which items should or should not be disclosed. Disclosure laws vary from state to state.


With  my diverse years of experience, I know my way around Vero Beach, FL. I have my fingers on the pulse of the market and I know that gated communities are where the best houses thrive and we can sell them fast!

I’m Karen Mathers! I can see victories on your plate as a seller! Call me at 772-532-3221!

In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view 👉What Should Be Disclosed to Buyers When Selling Your Home on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/HMP9VkaXj64

🏠How Do You Sell Your Home in Gated Communities in Vero Beach FL Fast

Housing choices nested within gated communities are becoming popular selling points nowadays!


Home buyers who have resided in gated communities in other areas will likely look for the same kind of location since they’ve grown to be more comfortable with their uniquely secure design.

Vero Beach, Florida happens to be one of the most desirable. I highly encourage those who are planning to sell their house in Vero Beach to go ahead and do so now because there are surefire ways to sell your property fast in gated communities.

Gated Communities in Vero Beach FL Homes for Sale

Make sure that the benefits to living in gated communities are highlighted to your potential buyers!


1.Prioritized security - No selling point is more suggestive to buyers than security. Gates will allow retirees, second home buyers, baby boomers, and even singles, who hold the most potential to buy homes, to go on with their activities without  too much worry.

2.Accessible amenities - Located in the seat of Indian River County, Vero Beach, FL will let you experience all the available amenities run by the homeowners’ association (HOA) from golf courses, tennis courts, and ways to the nearest beaches.

3.Exceptional schools, medical facilities and necessary stores - What can you say about 21 public schools, 7 private schools as well as a nearby college? It means that the younger members of your household will get a chance to go to any of these high rating schools. Indian River Medical Center is also in Vero beach to cover any medical assistance. Drive up to a handful of big shopping centers like Walmart, Sam’s Club, and Dollar Store, to name a few.

4.Rich choices of homes - According to Home Builders Association, 54 percent of potential buyers find the gated lifestyle essential and preferable. Like their prices, they come in variety of packages like villas and townhomes. You can visit my website at http://verobeach55plushomesforsale.com/ and see the similar styles of homes to your property. Check out how fast was I able to find a buyer to each house.

Selling a property in gated community is not just for the affluent, it’s for everyone who can afford the price and is willing to experience a whole new level of living where they don’t need to worry about being left with too much maintenance. If you want security, control and prestige, Vero Beach is the place to live in!

5.Location, location, location! - What I love about the location is it has an easy access to the beach and most of the houses have a view of the lake. You can even have a fenced yard on the lake. This is a great selling point. Vero Beach, Florida is an ideal place to raise children as well as see your grown up children go on separate ways to fulfill your dreams. We will make sure that these are mentioned to your buyer.  

Work with Karen Mathers and you won’t have to worry about not selling your house!


I’m Karen Mathers and the secret is out! The best ways to selling your home fast, even in gated communities, can be learned everywhere.

A lot of reading materials online will tell you to price it right from the start, to enhance your home’s curb appeal, to clean its interior and exterior but you need a REALTORⓇ who knows how to execute these things accurately. You need a champion like me to see for yourself!

My 18 years of experience will speak for itself. Let me guide you as you sell your home in Vero Beach with the right price and sell it fast!

Call me at 772-532-3221! Let me help you take the first step in making your big dreams into reality!

In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view 🏠How Do You Sell Your Home in Gated Communities in Vero Beach FL Fast on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Cd3jejGloRA

Monday, October 30, 2017

⌛6 Reasons to Buy a 55 Plus New Home in Vero Beach FL Now

55 Plus New Homes for Sale in Vero Beach

Timing is your best ally when buying a home

Which brings us to the next question: when is the right time to buy a house? While nobody can clearly say when, we can consider several key factors that can make an incredible influence on our decisions.


Sales activity changes from season to season here in Vero Beach, FL, but not as much as people think. If you decide to wait until next year’s peak buying season to buy a 55 plus new home, that can change the seller’s attitude towards selling.

What can influence your decision in buying a home?



  • The difference between local and national market trends. You will see trends on the national level, they may not necessarily reflect what’s going on in your local area. Know more about your local market before deciding if you should buy now or next year. Your market research should only focus on local trends in order to distinguish the health of your local market.
  • Your budget. The ideal situation is to enter your retirement years without any monthly mortgage payments. But whether you’re a retiree, or empty nesters, you still need to consider the biggest pieces of the budget equation. This equates to the down payment, the monthly mortgage, and a good credit score.
  • Time of the year. You know what they say, buy during the peak seasons of spring and summer, when you hav55 Plus New Homes for Sale in Vero Beache more options. However this also means more competition and possibly higher prices.

So why do you need to buy your 55 plus new home in Vero Beach, FL now?


Vero Beach FL 55 Plus New Homes


Let’s check some of the benefits if you don’t procrastinate your time of buying.
Separate projections conducted by Bankrate, Freddie Mac and Carelogic show that:


  1. The Cost of Waiting to Buy is defined as the additional funds it would take to buy a home if prices and interest rates were to increase over a period of time.
  2. Freddie Mac predicts interest rates to rise to 4.4% by next year.
  3. CoreLogic predicts home prices to appreciate  by 5.0% over the next 12 months.
  4. There will always be something in a home that you’ll find unattractive so as long as you have set realistic expectations, go for it. Uncertainty makes the waiting seem a lot longer. Decide to find the right home for you, now.
  5. If you’re currently renting, make sure to do a research  on the cost of renting versus buying in your local area. In most cities, your monthly housing costs will go down if you buy a house rather than renting continuously.
  6. The longer you procrastinate to start looking for a new home, the more likely you will face stiffer competition for fewer homes.


Your choice to buy your home this year is personal and critical at the same time. Consult with family, and friends who have also ventured into buying a property this year and have a trusted REALTORⓇ.

Are you now convinced that this could be the best time to buy your home?

Vero Beach is a pristine town on the Treasure Coast of South Florida accentuated with amazing beaches and the ideal climate. We’re proud to have some of the most expensive and luxurious properties around. If you’re searching for a life of solitude then you’re reading the right page, it’s the perfect place for quiet living.


The diversity of the type of homes from single family to townhomes are spread all over this city. One of the most recent homes I sold was a lovely property close to the beach and town. A Peppertree Villa nestled under the oak canopies. It’s impressive also because of the high ceilings, as well as the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room, dining room and master bedroom.


With 2 beds, 2 full baths, and an interior of 1,801 sq. ft., built in 1993, this home was sold for $305,000. Close to schools and a quick drive to several shopping centers, it’s in the perfect  location!

You and I both know you are ready to move here!

I can bring you to properties similar to the one I described. We can customize and filter your search depending on your budget.


Many 55 plus buyers sometimes learn the hard way by trying to negotiate the price and lose out to other buyers with a stronger offer. If you’re ready and have a skilled REALTORⓇ like myself, we can easily overcome all the obstacles.

Call me at 772-532-3221. My name is Karen Mathers!  



In case you cannot view this video here, please click the link below to view 6 Reasons to Buy a 55 Plus New Home in Vero Beach FL Now on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJ5Vh2XmAtU&feature=youtu.be

Thursday, October 12, 2017

đź’°What Are the Closing Costs of Buying a 55 Plus Home in Vero Beach FL?

Always consider your location for the home you purchase

It’s essential to know if the home you’re moving to has any extra closing costs. Another thing you should consider is the kind of property you have purchased.
Vero Beach 55 Plus Homes for Sale


Closing costs are what you need to pay in order to close the sale on your home. The costs of the services completed, as well as those involved in loans, need to be paid. You may be asked to pay some of them while you’re still in the process of buying the house but technically, closing costs should be paid after everything is done and the keys are ready to be handed to you.
The good news is Vero Beach, Florida, which has served as a top retirement destination for decades, offers some of the lowest closing costs in the region. They have been ranked on the low end of closing costs’ average range nationwide.

Get as much information as you need!

Here are the customary fees for buyers according to the Federal Title and Escrow Company in Florida:
  • Down payment
  • Title insurance
  • Loan Fees
  • Prepaid interest
  • Inspection fees
  • Appraisal
  • Mortgage insurance
  • Survey Fee
  • Hazard insurance
  • Miscellaneous fees such as documentary stamp
  • Property taxes
  • Deed recording fees
Determining the right closing costs is pivotal for the buyer to know since there are separate fees allocated for both you and the seller. You won’t want to have any unpleasant surprises at closing time with fees that are not reflected on the contract.
55 Plus Homes for Sale in Vero Beach FL

What goes into the closing costs of buying a 55 plus home in Vero Beach, FL?

The fees normally come from the mortgage lender and the title company or lawyer which are involved in the transaction.
Majority of the closing costs in Vero Beach, FL are paid to the lender. For example, a house for $200,000 with closing costs of $1,800 usually has more than $1,000 of average costs accrued to the lender. Even for those who don’t have a lender, charges will also come from title insurance companies, property surveyors, and other professional fees. If you’re a cash buyer, you can often receive more than 50% discount on closing costs since you won’t be needing the involvement of a bank or a lender.

I’m Karen Mathers and I will be here to help you throughout this entire process!

As your REALTORⓇ, I will see to it that I’m there with you during the closing. It’s only good business sense to give full service to my clients through this entire transaction. I’ll make sure you aren’t missing any documents, and all questions will be answered. I will ease your last minute worries and surprises by making sure no errors on commissions or deeds show up at closing.  I will be there to verify that the sale is being closed according to the terms of the purchase agreement.
What are you waiting for? Call me at 772-532-3221 and let it be our singular goal to find the right 55 plus home in Vero Beach for you and go through the entire process smoothly! And if you’re a seller thinking about closing costs, I can definitely help you, too!

In case you can not view this video here, please click the link below to view What Are the Closing Costs of Buying a 55 Plus Home in Vero Beach FL? on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/A_kc1gKTMbc.