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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

Selling your house as FSBO (For Sale By Owner) can indeed be a savvy decision, offering you greater control over the sales process and saving on agent commissions, especially in today’s seller’s market. However, it’s essential to address security concerns to ensure a smooth and safe selling experience. Here are some tips to help you … Continued

Facing foreclosure is undoubtedly a challenging situation for any homeowner, but there are steps that can be taken to mitigate the impact and potentially avoid losing the home altogether. Here’s a recommended course of action: Facing foreclosure is undoubtedly a difficult situation, but proactive communication with the lender and exploring all available options can help … Continued