Author: adeweerd

Thinking of replacing the carpet in your house? Here at Manatee, we’ve bought and sold numerous homes in Bradenton and Sarasota, and that means we’ve replaced a LOT of carpet. So, we’ve picked up some useful tips along the way that we’d like to share with you. Tips for Replacing Your Carpet Rent the Right … Continued

Wondering how to repair your hardwood floors? For today’s buyers, hardwood floors are a desirable aspect of a home. In fact, more real estate agents agree that homes with hardwood floors are easier to sell! But that’s not true if the floor is damaged. At Manatee, we’ve been working in Bradenton-Sarasota for quite some time … Continued

When you’re buying a home, how can you tell if you got a good deal or not? Real estate agents might say it’s a good deal… The seller might say it’s a good deal… But is there a way that you can run the numbers for yourself? At Manatee, we’ve been buying and selling real … Continued

Due to the challenges of ongoing current events, more people than ever before are now working remotely — from home, at coffee shops, or in co-working spaces. Maybe YOU — for the first time ever — find yourself working remotely. And for many people, working remotely sparks a thought: “Well shoot… I can live anywhere … Continued

Who pays for damages to a property? The renter or the homeowner/landlord? That’s a good question. We’ve been working in real estate in Bradenton for quite some time and have seen a lot of disputes between renters and landlords about who should pay for damages to a property. The truth is that it really depends … Continued

How do you repair a cracked driveway? At Manatee, we’ve been working in real estate for quite some time and have seen our fair share of cracked driveways — we’ve also FIXED our fair share of cracked driveways 😉 So… how do you do it? Fortunately, repairing a cracked driveway is probably something you can … Continued

Love gardening and wondering if there’s a way to use your green thumb to increase the value of your home? Well, there just might be! Some buyers on the market today love seeing a well-kept garden when they view a home — it’s not just an amenity, it’s also a sign that the current owners … Continued

Thinking of installing solar panels on your roof to cut your energy bill? You’re not alone. In 2019 alone, there were 2 million solar panel installations in the U.S., according to PV Magazine. But is it a good idea to install solar panels on YOUR home in Bradenton or Sarasota? We’ve been in the real … Continued

Feeling torn between prioritizing your child’s college education and essential home repairs? It’s a common struggle when finances feel stretched thin. The average cost of a 4-year degree is significant, ranging from $103,000 to $215,000, according to educationdata.org. This financial burden may force you to make tough decisions about where your paycheck goes. If home … Continued

Feeling uneasy about the commission rate your real estate agent proposed? The good news is, you’re not stuck with it – commission rates are negotiable. If an agent claims otherwise, it might be time to explore other options. At Manatee, with our extensive experience in Bradenton, we’re well-versed in this negotiation process. Here are some … Continued

Selling your home in Bradenton or Sarasota? It’s crucial to work with a real estate agent who prioritizes honesty, effective negotiation skills, and a strong marketing strategy over simply promising a higher listing price. Overpricing a home can lead to extended time on the market and ultimately result in the need for price reductions, which … Continued

Choosing the right school district for your children is a significant decision, and it’s great that you’re considering all the factors involved. Here are some additional tips to help you make the best choice: By thoroughly researching and considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about which school district will best meet the … Continued

Moving closer to family can be a big decision, and it’s great that you’re considering all the factors involved. Here are some additional tips to help you navigate the process: By carefully considering these aspects, you can make an informed decision about moving closer to family and ensure that the transition is smooth and beneficial … Continued

Understanding the difference between foreclosure and a short sale is essential for homeowners facing financial challenges. Here’s a breakdown of the key distinctions: Similarities: Differences: Given these differences, homeowners facing financial difficulties are encouraged to explore all available options and communicate with their lender to determine the best course of action. In many cases, pursuing … Continued