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Navigating Today’s Insurance Landscape in Florida: What You Need to Know
In today’s ever-changing insurance
Climate Change and Homeowners Insurance:
Florida’s susceptibility to hurricanes and rising sea levels due to climate change has made homeowners insurance a critical concern. Insurers are increasingly scrutinizing properties in high-risk areas, which can result in higher premiums or limited coverage. Floridians should be proactive in fortifying their homes to mitigate these risks and consider additional coverage options for storm-related damages.
Recent changes in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) have brought reforms to flood insurance rates and policies. Floridians need to stay updated on these changes and explore options for private flood insurance, which can sometimes offer more competitive rates and tailored coverage.
Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. This fact and the state’s “no-fault” insurance system pose challenges for insured drivers. Keep abreast of legislative changes and ensure you have adequate coverage to protect yourself in the event of an accident, especially if you’re involved in a collision with an uninsured driver.
Renters insurance is crucial for Floridians living in apartments or rental properties. It covers your personal belongings, liability protection, and additional living expenses if you’re forced to vacate your rental due to a covered loss, such as a fire or hurricane damage. Review your policy to ensure it provides comprehensive coverage for your specific needs.
Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage that goes beyond the limits of your existing home or auto insurance policies. It’s particularly valuable if you have significant assets to protect, as it can safeguard you from legal claims and lawsuits. With the rising cost of legal actions, having umbrella insurance can be a financial lifesaver.
Understanding Policy Exclusions:
Take the time to thoroughly review your insurance policies and understand what is and isn’t covered. Many policies have exclusions that may surprise you in the event of a claim. Knowing these exclusions can help you make informed decisions about your coverage.
Navigating the complex world of insurance in Florida can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. Pineapple Insurance is here to simplify the process and ensure that you get the coverage you need without the hassle. With a client-centric approach, tailored solutions, and a commitment to value, Pineapple Insurance can help you secure your future.
Don’t let insurance worries cast a shadow over your life in the Sunshine State. If you have any questions, we can be of assistance, or we can review your existing coverages for your home, flood, auto, or umbrella policies. Please contact us at 813-438-7240 or visit us at www.pineappleinsure.com for important reference information or to request a quote or contact.
Navigating Tax Season: Real Estate Insights for Homeowners
As the calendar turns towards February, many Floridians are not only preparing for the last gasps of winter but also for a less glamorous but equally significant event – tax season. Beyond the usual paperwork and crunching numbers, homeowners have a unique advantage during tax season that could significantly impact their financial landscape: real estate.
Understanding Deductions and Benefits: A Homeowner’s Guide
1. Mortgage Interest Deduction:
One of the most notable benefits for homeowners is the mortgage interest deduction. This allows homeowners to deduct the interest paid on their mortgage from their taxable income. If you’ve purchased a home in the past year, make sure to include the Form 1098 from your mortgage lender when filing your taxes.
2. Property Tax Deduction:
Property taxes can be a substantial expense, but they also offer a silver lining during tax season. Homeowners are eligible to deduct property taxes paid on their primary residence. Keep track of property tax statements and receipts to maximize this deduction.
3. Home Office Deduction:
With remote work becoming the new norm, the home office deduction has gained significance. If you use a portion of your home exclusively for work, you may qualify for this deduction. Be sure to consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance with IRS guidelines.
Maximizing Tax Advantages through Real Estate: Tips for Homeowners
1. Explore Energy Efficiency Credits:
Consider making energy-efficient improvements to your home, such as installing solar panels or upgrading to energy-efficient windows. Not only do these improvements contribute to a greener planet, but they may also make you eligible for tax credits.
2. Capitalize on Home Improvement Expenses:
Home improvements that enhance your property’s value can also translate to tax benefits. Keep track of receipts for projects like adding a new bathroom, upgrading the kitchen, or making other improvements that boost your home’s overall worth.
3. Utilize 1031 Exchanges for Investment Properties:
If you’re involved in real estate investments, explore the potential benefits of a 1031 exchange. This allows you to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting the proceeds from the sale of one investment property into another.
Seek Professional Guidance:
While these insights provide a starting point, navigating the intricate world of real estate and taxes requires personalized advice. Engage the services of a qualified tax professional or accountant to ensure you’re making the most of the available deductions and benefits.
Tax season may be a time of stress for many, but for homeowners, it presents a unique opportunity to leverage their investment for financial gain. By understanding the deductions and benefits available and strategically navigating the real estate landscape, homeowners can not only reduce their tax burden but also make the most of their property investment. As always, consult with professionals to tailor these insights to your specific situation and maximize your advantage in the upcoming tax season.
Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Filip Cerovic
Lights, camera, action! REALTOR® Filip Cerovic brings 14 years of media production experience to the real estate industry. Spanning six countries on three continents, Filip worked in film, television, and commercial productions. Now, Filip says, “I get to implement my communication, negotiation, and marketing skills to serve clients in one of the most important financial transactions of their lives.” He jokes, “I also get to wear my suits every day!”
Born and raised in Belgrade, Serbia, Filip earned his BA at the Academy of Arts in Belgrade, one of the most prestigious film schools in the region. Filip has lived in Tampa for the past six years and has an exceptionally successful track record in the media industry, working on a Suncoast Emmy Award-winning production in 2018 and earning an Emmy nomination for the Best Sports Promo (Go Bucs!) in 2022.
Drawing upon his experience catering to high-profile clients (The Royal Family of The Kingdom of Bahrain, Fortune 500 companies, and celebrities of all caliber) with uncompromising standards, he has translated top-tier customer service into every aspect of his real estate ventures. His approach involves meticulous attention to detail, a commitment to personalized client interactions, and an innate understanding of his diverse clientele’s needs and preferences. By infusing his real estate practice with the same dedication to excellence that defined his work in the entertainment industry, he not only sets a new standard for customer service but also establishes a reputation as a trusted and esteemed real estate professional.
Known for his tenacity, kindness, and perfectionism, Filip is a dedicated and highly educated REALTOR® with a passion for providing bespoke experiences to his clients. His extensive knowledge of neighborhoods, property values, and negotiation skills make him a trusted ally in any real estate transaction.
When Filip is not working with real estate clients, he supports many artistic endeavors and initiatives around Tampa Bay. He is a Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Emerging Artist Committee member and dedicates his time to programming and playing movies at Screen Door: An Ybor City Microcinema. Filip enjoys traveling, movies, and book clubs and is a perpetual student. He’s also a home Chef and makes killer cocktails.
Filip’s client-centric philosophy ensures that each real estate transaction is an immersive and personalized experience. By leveraging his exceptional communication skills, attention to detail, and deep understanding of client needs, he creates a seamless and luxurious journey for those navigating the real estate market.
Want to work with REALTOR® Filip Cerovic? Click here to learn more.
What Is a Buydown?
A buydown is a mortgage financing technique with which the buyer attempts to obtain a lower interest rate for at least the first few years of the mortgage or possibly its entire life. A 2-1 buydown, for example, is a specific type of mortgage buydown that allows homebuyers to save on their interest rate for the first two years of the loan. Buydowns can also use a 3-2-1 structure as well.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- A buydown allows homebuyers to obtain a lower interest rate when taking out a mortgage loan.
- Buydowns can save homeowners money on interest over the life of the loan.
- A buydown can involve purchasing discount points against the mortgage loan, which may require payment of an up-front fee.
- Whether it makes sense to choose a buydown when buying a home can depend on the interest rate for which you qualify and how long you plan to remain in the home.
Understanding Buydowns
Buydowns are easy to understand if you think of them as a mortgage subsidy offered by the seller on behalf of the homebuyer. Typically, the seller contributes funds to an escrow account that subsidizes the loan during the first years, resulting in a lower monthly payment on the mortgage. Builders or sellers may offer a buydown option to help increase the chances of selling the property, by making it more affordable.
The builder or seller of the property usually provides payments to the mortgage-lending institution, which, in turn, lowers the buyer’s monthly interest rate and, therefore, monthly payment. The home seller, however, usually will increase the purchase price of the home to compensate for the costs of the buydown agreement.
Homebuyers may choose an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) if they plan to refinance once the initial rate term ends or if they plan to sell the property before the rate adjusts.
Buydown Structuring
Buydown terms can be structured in various ways for mortgage loans. Most buydowns last for a few years, then the mortgage payments increase to a standard rate once the buydown expires. A 3-2-1 and 2-1 mortgage buydown are two common structures mortgage lenders can use.
3-2-1 Buydown
In a 3-2-1 buydown, the buyer pays lower payments on the loan for the first three years. For each of the first three years of the mortgage, the buyer’s interest rate would increase incrementally by 1% annually. The full interest rate would apply beginning with the fourth year of the mortgage loan.
While the buyer received savings from the lower interest rate in the first three years, the difference in the payments would have been made by the seller to the lender as a subsidy.
2-1 Buydown
A 2-1 buydown is structured the same as a 3-2-1 buydown; however, its discount is only available for the first two years. So you would have a 2% interest rate reduction for the first year of the mortgage, then a 1% rate discount for the second year of the mortgage. Your interest rate—and your monthly payments—would increase over time until your loan reaches its actual percentage rate.
This happens in year three of the loan. At this point, your monthly mortgage payment would reflect the true loan rate. You would pay upfront for the 2-1 buydown at closing, and, theoretically, the money that you save over the first two years would cancel out that payment.
Consider the interest rates for which you’re likely to qualify, based on your credit history and income, to determine if a buydown is worth it.
Buydown Pros and Cons
Whether it makes sense to use a buydown to purchase a home can depend on several things, including the amount of the mortgage, your initial interest rate, the amount you could save in interest over the initial loan term, and your estimated future income. How long you plan to stay in the home also can come into play for determining your break-even point.
Pros
- A buydown temporarily reduces your interest rate, saving you money and lowering your monthly payments during the initial loan term.
- Choosing a buydown may allow you to pay less for the home than the seller’s listing price.
- It could make sense for homebuyers whose income will increase in the years to come.
Pros Explained
- Interest savings: Choosing a buydown could save you money on interest costs during the first two years (with a 2-1 buydown) or three years (with a 3-2-1 buydown) of the mortgage.
- Price reduction: If a seller is offering to pay something toward the buydown, then this could reduce the cost of buying the home.
- Ease into higher payments: If you’re just starting your career and your income is expected to rise, then you may not have any issues with making your higher mortgage payments over time.
Cons
- Once the buydown rate ends, your monthly payment could be higher than expected.
- A buydown may not be an option for certain property types or loan types.
- If your income doesn’t increase, then you could struggle with making monthly mortgage payments.
Cons Explained
- Ongoing affordability: Once the initial rate period ends, your monthly payments could be substantially higher than what you’re used to. That could be problematic if your income has dropped since purchasing the home.
- Availability: Your ability to take advantage of a buydown may be limited by the type of property involved or the type of mortgage loan for which you’re applying.
- Default risk: If you’re not able to make the higher payments after the initial buydown period then you could be at greater risk of losing the home to foreclosure.
Remember to consider both the up-front costs of buying a home, such as the down payment or closing costs, and the ongoing costs to understand how much you can afford to become a homeowner.
Example of a Buydown Mortgage
Here are some examples of how a buydown mortgage can work. Say you’re borrowing $250,000 with a 30-year fixed-rate loan at 6.75%. You can choose between a 2-1 buydown or a 3-2-1 buydown.
Here’s what the loan breakdown would look like with a 2-1 buydown option:
- Year 1: $1,304 at 4.75% interest
- Year 2: $1,459 at 5.75% interest
- Year 3: $1,622 at full 6.75% interest
The buydown fee for this loan would be $5,759. Now, say you choose the 3-2-1 buydown instead. Here’s what your loan payments would look like:
- Year 1: $1,158 at 3.75% interest
- Year 2: $1,304 at 4.75% interest
- Year 3: $1,459 at 5.75% interest
- Year 4: $1,622 at full 6.75% interest
Meanwhile, the buydown fee for this loan increases to $11,324. So when considering a buydown, it’s important to look beyond the initial low payment period to determine whether the costs involved in the near term are worth any interest savings you might realize.
When to Use a Buydown
A buydown could make sense for buyers if it allows them to get a mortgage without significantly increasing the purchase price of the home or draining their cash reserves. Buydowns also may be more appropriate for people who have stable incomes set to grow over the life of the loan, making it easier to keep up with payment increases once the initial rate period ends.
But again, timing matters. If you don’t plan to stay in the home for at least five years, then you might not see any real savings at all from a buydown. So consider your future plans for buying a home and how long you might stay put before committing to a mortgage buydown.
Also, remember that not every mortgage is eligible for a buydown. For example, you can’t use them to purchase an investment property or for cash-out refinancing. Government-backed loans, such as FHA loans and USDA loans, also have specific guidelines regarding buydowns and when they can be used.
Agent Spotlight: REALTOR® Laura Fleming
REALTOR® Laura Fleming is passionate about the dynamic field of real estate and its profound value to clients. “These are some of the largest transactions of people’s lives and they are complicated and nuanced,” she said. “They depend on laws and regulations which change over time. Facilitating smooth transactions brings so much value to people, and I love that. And I like rising to challenges.”
Laura brings expertise in promotion, technology, and small business operations to her clients. She has previously worked as a self-employed consultant in copywriting and marketing, and she spent time in software support and project administration for a local restaurant back-office software company. Laura has even created her own specialty custom cakes as well as desserts for the renowned Cafe Ponte in Clearwater.
Her family members work in the real estate industry, so she has always been familiar with the field. But it was her own homebuying experience that inspired Laura to make the transition into the business. “Rent prices and the struggles of my friends who are getting priced out of renting but don’t believe they can buy have inspired me to learn as much as I can about first-time homebuying, homeownership, loan products, and down payment assistance programs,” said Laura. “It’s my goal to make homebuying as affordable and accessible as possible.”
In addition to excellent people skills, project management, integrity, and dynamic marketing, Laura also gained transferrable skills from her many years as a theater and ballet performer and show producer. She is outstanding with open houses, showings, and client presentations.
Laura is delightful to work with, highly skilled, and an effective real estate advisor. “I will advocate for your best interests and never push a sale,” she said. “I will represent you and your property with honor and integrity; I am your trusted advisor, and I’m fun to work with!”
Born and raised in Atlanta, Laura came to Florida to attend Rollins College, where she was a cum laude double major in art history and classical studies. She is passionate about the arts in schools and society. In her spare time, she is involved in community theater where she acts, directs, and designs scenic murals. Laura also avidly supports causes championing animals, human rights, domestic violence awareness, and mental health care.
When she’s not working or volunteering, you can find Laura spending time with her family and having a bubble party or running an obstacle course. She also loves to unwind from a long day by watching reality TV or British baking shows. Laura is the proud owner of her adorable, fluffy teddy bear dog, once seen on stage as “Chowsy” in the musical Gypsy. He is named after one of actor/filmmaker Bruce Campbell’s character aliases, Chuck Finley.
To work with REALTOR® Laura Fleming or to learn more, click here.
Transforming Your Back-to-School Routine: A Parent’s Guide to Success
The return to school can bring significant changes to your daily schedule, especially when you have daughters. Striking the right balance between work, school, and extracurricular activities can be an ongoing challenge. However, with patience and a collaborative spirit, you and your children can navigate the school year together. To help you settle into the new routine, here’s a comprehensive back-to-school survival guide for parents:
Family Calendar Collaboration:
Take advantage of digital tools like Google Calendar to create a shared family calendar. Include everyone’s schedules, such as school events, extracurricular activities, work commitments, and other essential dates. This way, everyone stays informed and on track.
Establish Consistent Routines:
Developing reliable morning and evening routines is key to smoother school days. Set regular wake-up and bedtime hours, prepare school bags the night before, and lay out clothes and lunches to save time and minimize stress.
Prioritize Communication:
Maintain open lines of communication with your children’s teachers and coaches. Stay informed about schoolwork, projects, and upcoming events by regularly checking emails or school communication platforms.
Encourage Independence:
Foster a sense of responsibility in your daughters by encouraging them to take ownership of their schoolwork and extracurricular commitments. Adjust your guidance according to their age and stage of development, empowering them to plan and manage their time effectively.
Share Household Responsibilities:
Lighten the load for everyone by delegating household chores and tasks among family members. Teaching each family member to contribute to the household builds teamwork and reduces the burden on any one person.
Plan Family Meals:
Save time and reduce weekday stress by planning and preparing meals in advance. Involve your daughters in meal planning and preparation to impart valuable life skills. Utilize knowledge about healthy eating to create each week’s meal plan.
Emphasize Physical Activity:
Encourage your girls to participate in sports or physical activities that interest them. Consider family outings or exercise sessions together to foster a healthy and active lifestyle.
Set Realistic Goals:
Help your daughters set realistic academic and extracurricular goals. Avoid overwhelming them with too many activities and teach them the importance of balancing school, hobbies, and leisure time.
Prioritize Quality Time:
Amidst the hustle and bustle, make it a point to spend quality time with your girls. Engage in family activities and create lasting memories through short bonding moments.
Practice Self-Care:
As a parent, taking care of yourself is essential. Find time for hobbies, exercise, or relaxation activities to rejuvenate and reduce stress, enabling you to be at your best for your children.
Flexibility is Key:
Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, despite all the planning. Embrace flexibility and adaptability while maintaining a positive outlook to cope with unforeseen circumstances.
Seek Support:
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help from friends, family, or support groups. Sharing experiences and tips with other parents can be invaluable in navigating the school year successfully.
Celebrate Achievements:
Recognize and celebrate your daughters’ achievements, no matter how big or small. Acknowledging their efforts will motivate them to continue working hard and staying dedicated to their goals.
In conclusion by following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure a smoother transition into the new school year and create a nurturing environment that supports both you and your daughters in achieving success and happiness. Remember, finding the right balance is an ongoing journey, so be patient and enjoy the process together.
Agent Spotlight: Realtor® John Bay
Meet Tampa Bay Realtor®, John Bay. Born in Kazakhstan, John brings his clients a unique blend of international perspective and local expertise. With a passion for helping people find their dream homes, John’s commitment to understanding his clients’ needs, and his keen eye for property potential, have earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor in the industry.
John received two bachelor’s degrees: one in engineering (oil and gas business) and a second degree in the aviation industry (en route air traffic controller.) He spent four years in the oil and gas industry and eight years in aviation as an air traffic controller, where he was named Best Air Traffic Controller in Western Kazakhstan. John currently owns an HVAC repair company, which is a great asset to have when looking at homes in Florida!
Described as honest, hardworking, and enthusiastic, John says, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm!” He brings experience in sales, leadership, and collaboration to the Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services team.
John is passionate about the game of golf and enjoys meeting lots of interesting people on the greens. He also enjoys professional boxing. John has many celebrity mates who do well in the boxing world and often invite him to different events and bouts.
He has lived in Tampa for two years with his wife and children. John previously lived with his family in New York City for two years. When he became a father for a third time, he and his family decided to move to Florida. Since then, they have fallen in love with Tampa and the Sunshine State.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, John’s professionalism, integrity, and deep knowledge of the Tampa market make him an invaluable asset in your real estate journey.
To work with Realtor® John Bay or to learn more, click here.
Agent Spotlight: Realtor® Elena Lakhina
Realtor® Elena Lakhina brings a wealth of international experience to Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate. She was born and raised in Irkutsk, Russia. At 17, she moved to Moscow to attend university. Elena earned a bachelor’s degree in politics and a master’s in media and journalism. She spent a semester in Belgium during her master’s program.
She continued her global expedition, working in China as an English teacher for a year and a half. Elena then went on to work in property management and as a leasing consultant.
“My mom is a real estate agent back home, and I’ve been involved in my family business working as an assistant property manager for a few years,” Elena said. “I started gaining interest as I moved to the United States, and as soon as I got my work permit, I attended a school.”
An ambitious, persistent, and fast learner, Elena raised and maintained the occupancy rate at her properties from 86% to 100%. She also has extensive experience with staging, decorating, and showing units. Elena is also proficient in real estate software. She created existing floor plans in digital form, updated the property website regularly, processed rent payments, assigned work orders to maintenance, communicated with tenants and prospects, and created leases. She also performed market studies comparing pricing and availability.
Elena’s previous positions taught her to be a strong decision-maker and problem-solver with robust communication skills. She is adept at property management, leasing, Fair Housing regulations, contracts, sales, staging, and rent management. But the best part about working with Elena is her heart.
“I am very kind, understanding, and empathetic,” she said. “I always put the client’s needs first and try to find a solution that fits all parties involved.”
In addition to real estate, Elena works as a freelance photographer. She has lived in Tampa Bay since 2020. Elena has been married to Adam Gladd for nearly four years. They have a 19-month-old boy named Nicholas and a 3-year-old miniature poodle named Grusha (pear in Russian.) In her spare time, Elena enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her husband and son.
To work with Realtor® Elena Lakhina or to learn more, click here.
Back to School: Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?
As summer begins to wind down and the warm days gradually give way to the crisp autumn air, there is a certain buzz in the atmosphere that can only mean one thing – it’s time to go back to school! Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a teacher, the back-to-school season brings a mixture of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a touch of nervousness. It’s a fresh start, a chance to embark on new adventures, and an opportunity to expand our knowledge.
However, speaking of knowledge, let’s put your intellect to the test with a few “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader” questions! (answers can be found at the end)
- A grouping of lines within a poem is called what?
- The stripes on the U.S. flag represent what?
- If my closest neighbor lives 212 yards away from me, how many feet away does she live?
- In what year was the Bill of Rights ratified?
- Which layer of the Earth is liquid?
Now that we’ve tested your trivia skills, let’s dive into the excitement and significance of the back-to-school season.
The Excitement of Starting a New School Year:
Certainly the start of a new school year brings with it a sense of renewed energy and enthusiasm. It’s a chance to meet new friends, reunite with old ones, and reconnect with teachers. The school hallways bustle with anticipation as students eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead. From the younger students just beginning their educational journey to the older ones navigating the challenges of high school, each grade level offers its unique opportunities for growth and learning.
Expanding Knowledge and Building Skills:
Undoubtedly, school serves as a gateway to knowledge, where young minds absorb information, expand their horizons, and build crucial skills. From learning how to read and write to exploring complex mathematical equations and scientific concepts, each subject equips students with valuable tools for the future. As the school year progresses, students delve into the realms of literature, history, art, music, and physical education, allowing them to discover their passions and talents.
Teachers as Guides and Mentors:
Especially, behind every successful student stands a dedicated teacher. Educators play a pivotal role in shaping young minds and nurturing their potential. They create engaging lesson plans, foster critical thinking, and provide guidance that extends far beyond the confines of a classroom. With their expertise and unwavering commitment, teachers inspire students to reach for the stars and become lifelong learners.
The Importance of a Well-Rounded Education:
Furthermore, education is not just about textbooks and exams; it’s about fostering holistic growth. School provides a platform for students to explore their interests and develop important life skills. Through extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and arts programs, students learn teamwork, time management, leadership, and creativity. The diverse array of opportunities helps them discover their strengths, build character, and gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s an exciting time for students, parents, and teachers alike. The school environment, with its blend of knowledge, friendships, and personal growth, offers endless possibilities. It’s a chance for each individual to embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement. So, whether you’re entering kindergarten or preparing for your senior year of high school, embrace the upcoming school year with open arms, ready to expand your knowledge, nurture
Answers:
- A grouping of lines within a poem is called what?
Answer: A stanza.
- The stripes on the U.S. flag represent what?
Answer: The 13 original British colonies in early America.
- If my closest neighbor lives 212 yards away from me, how many feet away does she live?
Answer: 636 feet. There are 3 feet in a yard, so multiplying 212 by 3 gives us the answer.
- In what year was the Bill of Rights ratified?
Answer: The Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791.
- Which layer of the Earth is liquid?
Answer: The outer core.
Agent Spotlight: Realtor Jourdin Reece
Realtor Jourdin Reece is a lifetime Tampa Bay resident. She attended Lutz Elementary, Buchanan Middle School, Steinbrenner High School, and the University of South Florida, where she was a D1 athlete as part of the All Girl cheerleading team. GO BULLS! She graduated from USF with a bachelor’s in political science and international government affairs. Jourdin also holds a nursing degree from Hillsborough Community College.
Jourdin’s love for real estate comes from her fiery passion for helping others navigate the process of buying and selling homes in the Tampa Bay area. Her experience includes multiple home remodels, turning houses into dream homes. She works with delicate care, professionalism, and enthusiasm when working with others.
“I have had the privilege and opportunity to complete multiple home renovations and remodels,” Jourdin said. “It is something I have a deep passion and love for. I would not only love to help clients find their dream home but help clients find a house they can turn into a home.”
As a Tampa Bay native, she brings tremendous knowledge to the area. Jourdin is passionate about the city she has devoted her life to and enjoys sharing it with those around her. She grew up in a sports environment, giving her a competitive and driven edge. Jourdin believes that her willingness to work hard, communicate effectively with her clients, and always bring a genuinely positive attitude to her job are key attributes to success not only in everyday life but when helping clients buy or sell their homes.
“I have always been intrigued by real estate and wanted to educate myself about our housing market, homes, and the real estate process,” said Jourdin. “I enjoy building relationships and working with others, so I felt real estate would be the perfect profession for me.”
Before real estate, Jourdin was a full-time nanny with the same family for 6.5 years. “My life has been devoted to helping people around me,” Jourdin said. “As a full-time nanny, I learned transferrable skills like diligence, patience, hard work, perseverance, and how to give specialized care for each unique person and situation.”
She said, “It makes me happy to see others happy. Also, I feel I am unique in this industry because I have a keen sense when it comes to looking at a house with potential and making it a home. I am looking forward to working with clients who may need a push in the design process of a home and helping them transform a home uniquely to their wants.”
Jourdin loves spending time with her friends, family, and two cats. She enjoys being on a boat, taking in the sun and the beautiful water Tampa Bay has to offer. She’s also a huge Tampa Bay sports fan. The Lightning are her favorite team and sporting event to attend. Jourdin also enjoys going to USF Bulls games to support her alma mater. She hopes to get involved with nonprofits to make a difference in others’ lives.
Work with Reatltor Jourdin Reece or learn more here.
