Inspections are a crucial aspect of the home buying process and can make or break a deal, but before you go so far as to shell out for an inspector, there are a few things you can look for on your own.

• Foundation: It seems straightforward, but it’s easy to forget to look at the foundation while you’re swooning over countertop and closets. Check ceilings and walls for cracks. If the foundation is visibly damaged or not level and you don’t want to put thousands of dollars into fixing it, don’t even bother. 

• Electrical Panel: Checking out the electrical panel is an easy way to get a feel for what’s happening underneath the surface. A quick look inside the panel door will give you a relative age of the wiring in the house. If it has fuses, the wiring could be older. 

• HVAC/Furnace: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Look for rust, cracks, dents, water stains or any other type of damage on the HVAC equipment. Also, keep your ears open for any strange noises that might indicate some type of internal problem. Make sure you get a copy of maintenance records from the owners if they kept any. If there are obvious problems, or the units are more than 10-15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade; if so you might be able to negotiate a discount on the selling price of the home.

• Roof: One of the most important things to look for in a roof is to check if it’s mold-free. Make sure the roof is perfectly flat and there are no curly edges or bulges. Look out for worn out spots and see if any shingles are missing. Do a speedy check to ensure all rooftop downpipes are releasing into stormwater wells and not right onto the ground. Check for breaks and leaks, leakage mostly happens in valleys, plumbing vents, chimneys, or also when it rains heavily. This can lead to mold and other damages. A ventilation system that lets sunlight and air come in easily is a must.

• Plumbing: If your potential property uses a septic tank instead of municipal sewer you need to be careful and check if the entire system is fully functional. Find out if there are any lead pipes in the home. Homes that were built prior to 1986 often have lead or galvanized plumbing

• Water Heater: Check the size of the water heater, typically a family of 4 would need a 40-gallon heater. Inspect all water heaters for signs of corrosion.

So there you are! Enjoy your house hunt, but make sure to keep your eyes peeled for these 6 potential dealbreakers!

It seems like every few years there’s a resurgence of preference for a particular style. The clean lines, geometric forms, and timelessness of Mid-Century Modern design are making a huge comeback. Maybe it’s the minimalist movement or the period piece television shows like Marvelous Mrs. Maisel or Mad Men, but either way, the classic look is here to stay. What we love about the aesthetic is the functional aspect of Mid-Century Modern design, without ornate extraneous details there is an emphasis on the unity between function and fashion, which makes this an attractive style to more practical consumers. 

Architecturally speaking, Mid-Century Modern homes feature flat roofs, angular and often asymmetrical details, glass accents, clean lines, and wide open floor plans. The residential style is often found in ranch style and split level homes built anytime from 1935 to 1975. There are even echoes of this architecture in some modern subdivisions being built today, but they take a trained eye to notice. It’s especially popular in areas such as Palm Springs, California.

Here in Gainesville, we have quite a few homes built in the Mid-Century Style, enough so that we have an event coming up - The 6th Annual Gainesville Modern Weekend March 22th - 24th 2019. Hosted by Gainesville Modern, Gainesville Modern is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Gainesville’s modern architectural past and promoting its future through education, advocacy, and awareness. Check out the links to events below to come through and see some beautiful homes!

https://www.facebook.com/events/772221946466520/

https://www.facebook.com/events/970381156484935/

https://www.facebook.com/GainesvilleModern/

KonMari has taken over the internet. My mother just called asking if my prom dress still sparks joy, or if she can finally clear it out of her storage unit.

The world has been downsizing in a radical act against consumerism, and I for one am here for it. The Minimalist movement, Marie Kondo, the 2017 film Downsizing, and the era of Tiny Homes - they all reinforce the idea that we do not have to subscribe to the antiquated ideas of accumulating things as a representation of wealth and success. Your value is not embodied in the square footage of your home, or the pairs of shoes in your closet.

By releasing ourselves of these standards, we can live within our means and use what we actually need, rather than what society has implied we need in order to be perceived as successful.

But this concept isn't limited to material possessions, it's about living in a way that frees your mind. What is holding you back? What do you actually need?

Questions like this have led many people into real estate careers. They realize being chained to a desk and climbing the corporate ladder is limiting their creative freedom and earning potential. Maybe its time to KonMari your career and look into getting your real estate license.

This week I sat down with the affable Tara Mace, the Transaction Coordinator here at Rabell Realty Group. We are dedicating some of our energy to understanding the incredible value we offer here at RRG, and Tara's expertise is certainly on that list.

When asking Tara what exactly her position entails, she details "REALTOR® Is a brand - within that, you can define what you do." Simply put, the Realtor trademark merely identifies that the person using it is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. Though Tara does facilitate actions of buying and selling houses as a REALTOR® Sales Associate, her asset to Rabell extends beyond that position. Tara has a history as a Licensed Title Agent that gives her an in-depth knowledge of contracts used in real estate transactions.

Tara is highly detail-oriented and conscientious, she has an apt perspective of both sides of contracts and understands the complex verbiage that can baffle even the most experienced Realtors. She is a resource and friend to every realtor here at Rabell Realty Group. Tara understands when a transaction isn't going according to plan and can accommodate the needs of agents and customers before they arise by taking preventative action, and providing crucial guidance. She helps prepare agents with information to have clear and accurate communication with their customers. Her familiarity with procedures on all sides of transactions is invaluable to us and her customers.

Tara describes her self as the world's best sleep aid: "When you start to lose sleep over your transactions, that's when you need me."

Thank you for all that you do here at Rabell Realty Group Tara, you're the cat's meow.

“Office Culture” has become a recruitment buzzword since google started creating Nap Pods, and tech startups started installing slides in their offices. This concept doesn’t actually turn your office into a daycare center - it creates a positive and productive work environment. Creating a defined “office culture” establishes behavioral standards for a company and facilitates management and employees in cultivating the desired office atmosphere.

For example, the Rabell Realty Group’s office culture is founded on “Synergy, Heart, & Hustle.”

That can genuinely be seen in every employee who steps into this office. This is manifested by conveying the message to everyone who enters our space with our actions and words, as well as by recruiting those who already embody those desired attributes. We work in an open office, which creates a collaborative atmosphere. We give back to our community and do our best to support each other by promoting everyone’s work and showing up to support at every opportunity we’re given. We have monthly meetings, informational sessions, group lunches, after work volunteer events - all with the intention of growing together and strengthening our community. 

Not to mention, we're paperless - going green in 2019, AND dog-friendly.

The emphasis on our culture has turned a competitive market into a collaborative opportunity to mentor and grow with each other. How will you grow your office culture to create a team atmosphere in 2019?

The Sellers Representative Specialist (SRS) designation is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance.  The designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) who meet specific educational and practical experience criteria. We are very proud that Rabell Realty Group’s own Alba Henesey REALTOR® earned her SRS designation today!

A passionate & service-oriented REALTOR®, Alba Henesy specializes in helping families and individuals alike relocate to and within Gainesville, Florida and Alachua County. A real estate agent & resident of north central Florida since 2002, Alba's in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market and the areas' many neighborhoods and communities make her a valuable resource to both home buyers and sellers, especially first-time home buyers and those working with a short timeline. Alba's top-notch communication skills help keep her customers & all parties involved in the real estate process informed, which prevents unnecessary hassles and hurdles.

When Alba isn’t furthering her education and selling Real Estate, you can sometimes find her caring for stray cats and dogs in the Gainesville area, or mentoring her peers here at RRG. 

We are so proud of Alba and love to celebrate the achievements of everyone here in the Rabellion. Alba is a truly generous person with her time, energy, and expertise, and it is exciting to watch her continue to flourish as a realtor here. 

Connect with Alba, P.A./ REALTOR® at alba@352realtor.com or 352-559-9950

It’s no secret that here at Rabell Realty Group we love Real Estate. It’s our business, it’s our passion. Becoming a REALTOR® is a risky career move, an investment, and a lot of work. So why do Realtors love their jobs so much?

Designing Your Own Schedule

Do you hate being tied to a desk? Do you envy people spending weekdays working in coffee shops and taking yoga classes at noon? The beauty of real estate is that you get to design your own schedule. The misconception here is that realtors work less, which is not the case. For most realtors, designing their schedule means they have to balance in other aspects of life, as Real Estate can sometimes take over their world. Good realtors are passionate and driven, the more time you invest, the more you make - which leads us to the next point,

You Decide How Much You Make

As a general rule, when working on commission you get out as much as you put in. There is no corporate ladder or income cap limiting your success. You don’t have an annual review determining whether or not you get a raise. You have your own two feet, pounding the pavement, making connections, and getting the job done. You also get to decide how far you go as a Realtor, learning more skills and earning designations such as ABR and GRI, or becoming a Transaction Coordinator, earning a Staging certificate, or getting your Brokers license. 

You Build A Community

Real Estate is all about networking. More than 40% of business comes from past clients, whether that’s them selling their property and searching for their next home, or telling their friends and their friend’s grandma’s knitting club co-chair that you are the best realtor in town. Realtors, even if they’re not naturally extroverted, have to put themselves out there and join business organizations, groups, activities, and clubs in your community.

Work Independently, or as a Team

Kristen and Rebecca are a rare pairing. Two women who consistently build each other up and encourage the best in each other while running a business together is a benevolent anomaly. Dynamic duos are taking over the Real Estate world, and if you’re someone that likes to work with others, you could find great success and a new best friend. However, if you’re more of a lone wolf type, you can be extremely successful in the Real Estate industry as well.

You Help People

Realtors facilitate the largest transactions of some people’s lives. You guide them into a good investment, protect them from faulty deals and unsafe homes. You help them find their dream residence and build a life for themselves. Buying a home is a serious investment, and realtor’s take the responsibility of their role with great sincerity. At the end of the day, good realtors are defined by their immense capacity as givers.

It’s December, also known as that time of year where you accidentally see the “2018 Goals” note in your phone and cringe - how did things fall so far off track? It takes a lot of work to build a habit and better yourself, and if you fall off the wagon even just once, it’s a lot harder to get back on.

Here at RRG, we’re all about seeing the glass half full, so let's end this year on a positive note - and even better, propel ourselves into the new year with a renewed sense of optimism. If you start on your goals today you’re much likely to stick with them through the New Year. Starting the year in the right direction already will give you the practiced perseverance to stick to your goals, even when things get difficult.

So without further ado; here are 10 Ways to Finish Strong in 2018 (and make 2019 your most successful year yet!

1. Get Up Early

When your alarm goes off at 6 am, get up. Immediately. I mean it. I know it’s cold out and now more than ever your bed has become a cozy abyss you would love to sink into. Please for the love of yourself, don’t. Research shows people who get up early are happier and more successful, so plug your phone in on the other side of the room, get up, and get to it.

2. Drink More Water

This is the easiest goal you could set for yourself with drastic health benefits. Buy a reusable water bottle to keep at your desk, and drink some warm lemon water right when you wake up to help your digestion throughout the day. Your skin will thank you, you’ll find sticking to your diet is less difficult, and making one healthier choice (like swapping out sugary drinks for plain old H2O) will motivate you to continue to chose better for yourself, not to mention the money you’ll save long term by lowering your consumption of sodas and sugary coffees! 

3. Meditate

Don’t click out of this article and roll your eyes. I know, I know, you don’t have time. Your brain never stops running, you couldn’t possibly sit there for five minutes with your eyes closed just breathing and emptying your mind right? Well, friend, this is why you woke up at 6:00 am. When you consider the amount of time we spend mindlessly scrolling through social media, you absolutely have 5 minutes to spare for your mental health. Find a guided meditation you like, and get it done before any of your other responsibilities. Studies have proven meditation to be a vital tool for mental health. Here’s a list of 20 ways meditation can improve your life: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/feeling-it/201309/20-scientific-reasons-start-meditating-today

If you’re still skeptical, just set a timer and enjoy the quiet, no humming, gongs, or chanting required.

4. Write

Writing daily is a habit you can develop to become more creative, grateful, and successful. It doesn’t have to even be coherent. Some days, I wake up and open my journal, doodle a sunflower, pack up and move on. Other times, I have to set a timer to stop myself from writing the next great American novel. At the end of the day, or even just the end of the week, revisit your journal and reflect. Record moments to be grateful for, interesting thoughts, conversations that challenged your views. The best way to grow is to constantly reflect and find exactly where you are in life. 

5. Move Your Body

Another piece of advice you’ve read a thousand times before, for a reason. Finding a way to move your body more daily will make you happier and healthier, simply put. Try online yoga videos, pilates, Orange Theory, Pure Barre, swimming, jogging - whatever peaks your fancy.

Jogging makes me feel like death. I do not like it, so I do not do it. 

Don’t move your body to become a supermodel, do it so that you can live longer and feel better. My favorite way to get moving is weightlifting in the morning, when I get home after work I take a long walk, and before bed, I do either restorative or vinyasa yoga depending on what my body needs. It’s all about finding what makes your body feel good and challenging, and what makes you excited to exercise. Every day I look forward to going to go lift and be better at it than I was the day before.

Also, whatever your choice of exercise, try to get it done in the morning. You’ll be more likely to actually do it with no excuses, you’ll make better food choices all day, and you’ll be full of endorphins when you start your work day! 

6. Pack Your Lunch, and a Book

Remember when you said you were going to spend your money wiser, eat healthier, and read more this year? Knock out three birds with one stone every single day during your lunch break. The average restaurant lunch will cost you $12, compared to the average $4 per meal when made at home. If you’re not careful you could spend up to $3,000 on work lunches in a year. That’s insane. So pack a lunch, which you know is healthier than the china buffet, and bring a book. Take your lunch hour to regroup and nourish yourself. You’ll be more productive, healthier, and wealthier. Maybe a bit smarter too.

7. Keep A Schedule

Google Calendar, Bullet Journals, Daily Planners, whatever your planning vehicle of choice - take time once a day or once a week to set out your goals and responsibilities. Track your finances, set your appointments, plan your workouts, your social engagements… by taking the time to write your week you’re setting yourself up for success by honing your attention and being aware of your day to day habits. Those that keep a schedule are usually less stressed and have a better work-life balance - who doesn’t want that?

8. Learn a New Skill

The goal here is to expand your mind and build better habits. One of the least talked about skills that is so beneficial to your well being is the ability to try. Try anything, try everything, and be totally comfortable sucking at it. The ability to take yourself lightly and be uncomfortable will get you a lot further in life than trying to be the best at everything. So get a guitar off craigslist, ask your sweet old neighbor to teach you how to knit, go on a hiking trip - put yourself out there and make a habit out of trying something new. 

9. Phone a Friend

Being social is just like any other aspect of life, it requires work sometimes. If you’re one of those people that feels like you could be better at putting yourself out there, or maybe you’ve lost touch with people you were once close with, taking time to plan your social life could vastly benefit your well being. Set a goal of how many times per week you’d like to see your friends. Set up a weekly dinner, or game night, or Sunday brunch. Give yourself something to look forward to, and regularly care for your friendships just like you would a plant or a pet.

10. Make a Plan

Okay, so you’ve started waking up early, meditating, working out, journaling, packing your lunch, drinking some water. You’re keeping a schedule, seeing your friends more, and knitting a sweet scarf. Now what? Now you’ve built up some temperance, and some momentum. By now you’ve learned how these skills can benefit your life and give you a foundational sense of wellness. So take some time and figure out what you’d like to get really good at, and go do it. Set some real tangible goals that you can cross off. Read 30 books. Run a marathon. Move up in your career. Sell 3 million dollars worth of houses. Whatever it is you’re dreaming of doing, it’s not too far out of reach.

And when your goals become too much, return to this list. Return to a set of habits that make you feel healthy and happy so that you can achieve greater for yourself. Set yourself up for success, have a ton of fun, and make this year your best yet. 

Let us know how you’re finishing strong in the comments below!

The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation is the benchmark of excellence in buyer representation. This coveted designation is awarded by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC), an affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS®, to real estate agents who meet the specific educational and practical experience criteria. We are very proud to announce that Rabell Realty Group's own Melinda DeLuna REALTOR® just earned her Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation this month.

A Gainesville native and busy mom of four, Melinda holds degrees in Journalism (AA) and Telecommunications (BS) from Santa Fe College and the University of Florida. Melinda credits her passion for learning and people for fueling her pursuit of continual professional growth and education as a real estate professional.  With the Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR) designation, Melinda has gained valuable real estate education and further elevated her skills and knowledge in working directly with home buyers here in Gainesville and North Central Florida.

Congratulations, Melinda! We applaud you for this industry achievement, and for always striving to hone your expertise as a real estate agent to better serve your customers and help them achieve their real estate goals.

Connect with Melinda DeLuna REALTOR®, ABR, GRI at Melinda@BuySellRabell.com or (352)871-9456.