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  2. Holidays in Miami – The Must-Dos

Holidays in Miami – The Must-Dos

You know the song, and we hold it near and dear: “There’s no place like home for the holidays.” Because it’s our mission to find our clients their dream home, we also strive to ensure there are wonderful nearby amenities that will make you love staying at home. There’s nothing like experiencing the joy of the holidays within your community!

Here’s our quick list of things to do, places to go, and event/activities that can’t be missed in Miami during the holiday season:

Santa’s Enchanted Forest

This annual event runs from November 1, 2018 – January 6, 2019. There are various ticketing options, from daily to season passes, and a military discount is also available.

It’s fun for the whole family – kiddie rides, wild rides, acrobat shows and more! Holiday favorites like Mistletoe Lane, South Florida’s Tallest Christmas Tree, and the Christmas Light Show Spectacular are back for another year to spread holiday cheer. For more info: https://bit.ly/2UoeNpx

Zoo Miami

Through December 29, 2018, The Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens, AKA Zoo Miami, turns into Zoo Lights Miami on Fridays and Saturdays from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. There’s an assortment of family-friendly entertainment to enjoy, such as animal encounters,
Snowman’s River Boat Rides, holiday treats, pictures with Santa, musical performances and more! For more info: https://bit.ly/2CspYqy

 

Magical Snowfall at Dolphin Mall

The magic of Magic City never ceases to amaze! Catch the winter wonderland until January 6, 2019, at the Ramblas Plaza at Dolphin Mall.  Arrive early to get a free magic wand before the snowfall begins. For more info: https://bit.ly/2rOwXnn

The Lantern Light Festival

Miami’s Lantern Light Festival is a dazzling treat for the eyes! This festival of Chinese culture features gigantic, illuminated, handmade silken lanterns, food and entertainment. Don’t miss this fabulous event being held at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds through January 20, 2019. For more info: https://bit.ly/2PUQ4pB

We hope you’re able to enjoy at least one of our favorite holiday excursions and remember that there are other incredible things to see and do in Miami during the holidays and throughout the year!

Interested in finding your home sweet home with the pros who know Miami real estate?  Contact us today and visit our website to see our fabulous listings. For tips on homebuying and to see our featured property listings, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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  2. BCDC Top Picks for Miami Neighborhoods

BCDC Top Picks for Miami Neighborhoods

When you purchase a home, you’re not simply investing in a house; you’re investing in a neighborhood. The quality of life you experience in your home is largely determined by the community where it’s located. From the residents to the amenities, each neighborhood comes with its own set of advantages (and disadvantages).

At the BCDC Group, we provide our clients with the inside track on Miami’s neighborhoods, including schools, amenities, public services and more. We deliver the backdrop on neighborhoods in consideration so that our clients can make informed, educated decisions with respect to their home purchase and ensure a Home Sweet Home for their loved ones.

Here are some of our top neighborhood picks in Miami:

Edgewater

Thanks to its proximity to Downtown Miami, the Financial District and the Design District, Edgewater is popular with families who want the perfect location to experience it all! There’s a great mix of early 20th-century homes and high-rise towers, reflecting the various needs of a mixed community.  Miami’s burgeoning arts’ communities and internationally-renowned museums are just steps away, as is some of Miami’s finest shopping, located in the Design District.

Coral Gables

Affectionately referred to as the “City Beautiful,” Coral Gables lives up to its name!  Its winding canals and lovely bridges make it a charming place to live, not to mention the various golf clubs and tennis courts scattered throughout the neighborhood. Downtown Coral Gables is home to some world-famous corporations and brands, and the restaurants and shops make it a hub of activity. Breathtaking old Spanish architecture and tree-lined streets highlight the gorgeous properties. Coral Gables is an ideal neighborhood for families, thanks to its central location and proximity to some of  Florida’s best schools. It’s also a quick 15-minute drive to Downtown Miami, and the Design District and Wynwood are in close proximity.

Brickell

Also known as the Financial/ Business District, Brickell is an extraordinary neighborhood for its versatility! Brickell boasts new residential complexes with the most up-to-date amenities. Work in Downtown Miami? Save time and gas by taking up residence in one of its soaring skyscrapers with incredible views of Biscayne Bay.  Perfect for anyone who wants to be close to the action, Brickell has a plethora of trendy dining, shopping and entertainment options. It’s a very walkable neighborhood, with shopping, theatres, schools and parks that give a well-rounded feel for growing families. Many moving from other states and countries love to call Brickell home.

Miami Beach

Likely the most famous part of the Magic City, Miami Beach flaunts a wide array of real estate – from modest homes to wildly wonderful waterfront mansions.  Miami Beach has a tremendous variety of things to do, promising that you’ll never be bored: paradise-like beaches, top restaurants, hottest nightclubs, fantastic shopping, the best in people watching and more. There’s also no shortage of exquisite, Spanish colonial architecture. And let’s not forget it’s the go-to destination for those wanting to cast their inhibitions aside and enjoy life to the fullest!

Pinecrest

If you’re looking for a safe, family-friendly environment, then look no further than Pinecrest! Excellent public and private schools, picturesque tree-lined streets and more affordable housing costs than Coral Gables and Coconut Grove make Pinecrest a top choice for families. Though it lacks a true downtown or center of town, there are great  shopping and dining options in the adjacent commercial area known as “South Miami.”

Coconut Grove

What’s not to love about an old seaside village lovingly called “The Grove”? Coconut Grove’s enchantment lies in its natural beauty – gigantic oak trees, free-roaming peacocks and charming parks. It’s also a great place for families, thanks to beautiful single-family homes, fabulous new condos, top private schools, a growing list of restaurants, and a unique bohemian charm that teeters between relaxed and romantic and upscale chic. Lovers of art and culture will appreciate The Grove’s festivals, bookstores, markets, museums and abundance of outdoor cafes!

When you approach homebuying, consider not only the home itself but also what surrounds it. And look no further than The BCDC Group for expert guidance and knowledge of Miami’s neighborhoods and property values.  Let us find your Home Sweet Home!

If you’re interested in Miami real estate featured in one of these great neighborhoods, visit our website to see our fabulous listings. And for other tips on homebuying and listing a property, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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  2. Things to Consider When Purchasing a Home

Things to Consider When Purchasing a Home

Purchasing a home is a serious, conflicted and detailed process.  It’s a big decision that actually ranks as one of life’s biggest stressors.  So when taking on one of life’s most daunting tasks, arm yourself with a solid team that supports you and represents your interests – that’s your team at the BCDC Group! Then put together a plan. We’re sharing our list of essential points to consider when setting out to purchase your Home Sweet Home.

Finances

Know your credit score. Having a lower credit score can impact your ability to get approved for a larger mortgage and may adversely affect the terms of that loan.  If possible, give yourself additional time to boost your score before starting the home-buying process.

Consider your savings. You’ll need money for incidentals and things like homeowner’s insurance, association fees, unexpected repairs, cosmetic changes, property taxes and more.

Make sure your home is an investment that will grow with you instead of a continuous expense. Know the neighborhood where you’re purchasing and understand the property values and the advantages and disadvantages of the community where you’re choosing to live. If you decide to sell in the future, you want to ensure that your property has appreciated in value.

 Location

Decide if you prefer a home in an urban, rural or suburban area. Specific laws in each area may influence your decision.  For example: Can you house your boat on your property? Are commercial developments allowed in close proximity to your home?

Go to the neighborhood during the day, at night and during rush hours. Determine if the area is high-traffic and noisy or quaint and quiet.

Your dream home may be perfect for you, but what about your family? Consider the length of the work commute for you and your partner/spouse. Also, consider the quality and reputation of public and private schools in the area.  Investigate local parks and community centers and proximity of supermarkets and those services your family relies on for a smooth and seamless lifestyle. Is public transportation readily available?

Personal Preferences

Visit the chosen property to test your cell phone coverage. If you plan to work from home or have a home-based business, your Internet speed could be of real importance.  And if you have children, Internet access will be critical!

If you live in or are moving to South Florida, energy bills are always a consideration.  Look to a property with lush vegetation (i.e. mature trees) to shield the home from the hot sun.

When purchasing a home, it’s important not only to appreciate the now, the moment, but to also visualize yourself in the home, neighborhood and community in the coming years.  Do you see it as a good fit for you and your family?

If you’re interested in Miami real estate and want to stay up-to-date with our agency news and Miami property and investments, visit our website.  And please take the time to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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  2. BCDC: Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

BCDC: Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Buying, selling or leasing a home or condo can be a complicated, cumbersome and stressful process. With over 40 years of combined experience in the Miami real estate market, we know that prospective homebuyers make better decisions when they’re confident and informed. To that end, we’re sharing our list of FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) to shed some light on the home buying process:

Q- How do I know if it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market?
A- In a perfect world, you’d always purchase a home in a buyer’s market–when prices are lower because there’s less demand. A seller’s market boasts higher home prices driven up by increased demand.

Q- I want to buy a home, but where do I start?
A- Your first step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Having this information shows you’re a serious buyer and helps determine the types of properties that are in your price range.

Q- What fees are associated with buying a home?
A- Remember that mortgage we were talking about? It’s best not to pick a property at the top of your price range because the cost of a home isn’t simply the down payment and mortgage. You will also have closing costs (typically between 2 – 5% of purchase price) that include lender fees, title fees and any prepaid costs. It might prove wise to anticipate attorney’s fees (if an attorney is necessary or required for the transaction), inspection costs and various other minor fees that might come into play. Moving costs should also be considered, as those can put a slight dent in your wallet – especially if you’re moving city or state.

Q- There are so many incredible properties in Miami. How many should I see before making a decision?
A- See as many as it takes! Because there are so many fabulous Miami homes and condos, make a list of your must-have amenities to narrow your list of properties to view.

Q- What happens after I choose my dream home?
A- Welcome to the purchase process (this is our second favorite part of being realtors)! Your agent will make a purchase offer. Contracts and documents will pass from buyer to seller until you reach an agreement. You’ll also need to get full approval from your mortgage lender.

Q: Is a home inspection an absolute must?
A: Absolutely, YES! You want to know the true condition of your home to avoid any pricey surprises (like an overhaul of the electric work). If something isn’t up to code or doesn’t meet your liking or requirements, it makes for a good bargaining chip with the seller.

Q- We’re closing! Now what?
A- Fabulous! Now, THIS is our favorite part of being realtors. If you’re pleased as punch after the inspection and doing a final walkthrough, as the buyer, you’ll pay the costs to close the transaction. The title is transferred from seller to buyer and – congrats! – you get the keys to your new Miami home or condo!

The team at the BCDC Group wants to congratulate you on making the decision to buy your home sweet home in Miami! It’s our pleasure to provide you with the highest level of client service and unparalleled expertise throughout the purchase process. To see how we sell Miami and to stay informed with agency news, visit our website.  You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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  • When are you looking to purchase?

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