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Florida Lifestyle | Living the Florida Lifestyle Blog

Friday, October 31, 2025   /   by Kelly Bruno

Would You Buy a Haunted House?

There’s a 50/50 chance you might!
 
I'm glad you're here!
 
I’ve put together a nice assortment of bite-sized pieces of real estate news, entertainment, and resources I think you’re going to enjoy. (And maybe even learn a thing or two you never knew you wanted to know!)
 
Here's a sneak peek at what's on tap:

It looked good on paper…
Would you buy a haunted house?
6 ways to protect your home (& trick-or-treaters) on Halloween

But first, let’s start it off with my...
 
Meme of the Week
 
I’m always curious to know which neighborhoods get the most trick-or-treaters. Do you typically get a lot of activity in yours?
 



 
It looked good on paper…
 
It’s important for agents to make sure we draw attention to features of a home we’re listing, and really make sure buyers can envision the possibilities.

But a real estate agent in the U.K. may have taken that a li ...

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Sunday, September 28, 2025   /   by Kelly Bruno

Offer Accepted? Now What? A Florida Buyer's Guide to the Next Steps

Congratulations! Your offer on that dream home in sunny Florida has been accepted. That's an exciting milestone, but the journey doesn't end there. As a Realtor who's guided countless buyers through the Florida real estate process, I know the post-acceptance phase can feel a bit overwhelming with all the moving parts. Don't worry—I'm here to break it down into clear, actionable steps. In this post, we'll cover the key things you'll need to do right away, focusing on the earnest money deposit, scheduling inspections, and making your formal loan application. By understanding these, you'll navigate the process with confidence and keep your path to closing smooth and stress-free. 
1. Make the Earnest Money Deposit: Locking in Your Commitment
Once your offer is accepted, the first order of business is to submit your earnest money deposit (EMD). This is essentially a good-faith payment that shows the seller you're serious about buying the property. In Florida, the EMD is typica; ...

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Sunday, August 10, 2025   /   by Kelly Bruno

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying or Selling a Home

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying or Selling a Home
 
Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make, and it’s easy to stumble into pitfalls that can cost you time, money, or peace of mind. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, avoiding these common mistakes can make the process smoother and more successful. Here’s a rundown of key missteps to steer clear of, with practical tips to keep you on track.
 
Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home
1. Skipping Pre-Approval for a Mortgage
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is house hunting without knowing their budget. Without a mortgage pre-approval, you risk falling in love with a home you can’t afford or losing a competitive bid because you’re not ready to act.
Tip: Get pre-approved by a lender before shopping. This shows sellers you’re serious and helps you narrow your search to homes within your financial rea; ...

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Wednesday, July 9, 2025   /   by Kelly Bruno

Considering Pets When Buying a Condo on Florida’s Space Coast

Florida’s Space Coast, stretching along Brevard County from Titusville to Palm Bay on the mainland and Cape Canaveral to Melbourne Beach on the coast, is a dreamy destination for homebuyers seeking sun, sand, and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. For pet owners, however, finding the perfect condo means balancing your furry friend’s needs with the realities of condo living. From pet-friendly policies to nearby amenities, here’s what to consider when buying a condo on the Space Coast with pets in mind.

1. Understand Condo Pet Policies

Condo associations on the Space Coast often have pet policies, which can vary widely. Some allow all dogs & cats, while others impose restrictions on size, breed, or the number of pets. For instance, most condos in Cocoa Beach or Satellite Beach cap pet weight at 30 pounds and limit households to1 pet while there are those that allow pets over 50 pounds with no limit on number of pets. Always request the association’s bylaws &; ...

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Monday, June 9, 2025   /   by Kelly Bruno

Condo vs. Single-Family Home: Which is Right for You in Cocoa Beach?

Nestled along Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach and nearby Cape Canaveral offer a slice of paradise with sun-soaked beaches, a vibrant surf culture, and the thrill of rocket launches at Kennedy Space Center. If you’re considering buying a property in this coastal gem, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to choose a condo or a single-family home. Both options have unique advantages, but they cater to different lifestyles and priorities. Let’s break down the benefits of condos (oceanfront views, amenities) versus single-family homes (privacy, space) in the context of Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral’s real estate market to help you decide which is right for you.
The Allure of Condos in Cocoa Beach
Oceanfront Views and Coastal Living
One of the biggest draws of a condo in Cocoa Beach is the chance to wake up to stunning oceanfront views. Many condos, especially along Atlantic Avenue & Ocean Beach Blvd or in complexes like Water’s; ...

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