Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Homes in Sterling Chase

Homes for Sale in Sterling Chase


Sterling Chase is located toward the end of the popular neighborhoods that line Airport Road in Port Orange. Many homes in Sterling Chase offer swimming pools and beautiful attention to detail throughout. You can also feel extra safe here thanks to the security of Johnson Group’s Safe Room technology. This community is close to great education with an award winning public elementary school located around the corner, and Creekside Middle School and the nationally ranked Spruce Creek High School are only a short ride away. Sterling Chase is great place to raise your family or retire to in a safe community.

If you are interested in buying a home in  Sterling Chase Click the link below!
Sterling Chase

For Help Buying Or Selling Your Home Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Ashton Lakes Neighborhood

Homes For Sale in Ashton Lakes

Ashton Lakes in Port Orange is a great place to call home for local families, retirees, and second home owners. This Port Orange neighborhood is conveniently located close to Port Orange shopping, restaurants, golf courses & country clubs, fishing, A+ Schools, and so much more! Ashton Lakes has something for everyone and could be your home!

If you are interested in buying a home in Ashton Lakes click the link below
Ashton Lakes


For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Countryside Homes for Sale in Port Orange

Homes For Sale In Countryside

Countryside homes are located right in the heart of Port Orange. Located just off of Dunlawton, homeowners are only a short drive away from the beach, church, restaurants, city hall, and much more. You won't find a more convenient place to call home in Port Orange. There are many types of home options available in Countryside. Some include luxury homes in a gated community, townhomes with low maintenance, smaller homes and custom homes. Retirees and families alike call Countryside their home year round and seasonally. This community is affordable and in a great location, making it a great place to find your home!


If you are interested in buying a home in Countryside click the link below
Countryside

For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Us Today  (386)566-8091

Friday, November 30, 2018

Costs to Consider when Buying a Home

The Bigger Picture 

Have you been thinking about buying a home in the Port Orange or South Daytona area?  Many smart buyers have made the decision to start by contacting an experienced Realtor. This choice can help you to navigate through the often tangled buying process and can also lead to you creating a team of professionals that can help you make informed decisions throughout the transaction.




While the price of a home might seem to be in your budget at face value, forgotten costs of the buying and moving process could potentially put you over budget in the long run. Here are six costs that are often overlooked, courtesy of Redfin:
Improvements. Even if the home you buy isn’t a fixer-upper, there may be things you want to change or add to make it your own, such as new flooring, paint or countertops, which can add up to be a large expense.
Moving. Moving costs money, and the price goes up the more stuff you have
and the farther you’re moving.
Furnishings. You may want to buy furnishings for your new home, since the furniture and accessories you own now may not be enough or fit in with a new aesthetic.
Maintenance. This is an expense that catches renters especially off guard, because maintenance is usually taken care of by the building owners. You can expect to repair or replace a variety of things during the life of a home, so be sure to include maintenance costs in your budget.
Utilities. While you may already be paying for utilities at your current residence, the costs could be higher in your new home depending on the size and area. There are also some utilities that are included in rent that homeowners have to pay for, like garbage collection.
Time. You will meet with several people to sign documents, set up utilities and prepare your move—time you might take off from work. This is fine if you’re able to use vacation days, but if not, you may need to take unpaid leave.

The Mark Card Team has over 40 years of combined experience and has vast knowledge of the current Port Orange/South Daytona real estate market, as well as the intricacies of the home buying process.  If you'd like to speak with an agent about creating a long or short term home buying plan, call Mark Card or Jennifer Card at 386-566-8091.

Wednesday, November 28, 2018

Things to do before you list your home



Are you considering putting your house on the market?  

THE pre-listing LIST

Completing some quick and easy tasks before listing a home for sale can help reduce stress and save time during the home-selling process.

1.  Clean the House: An important part of selling a home is keeping it clean in anticipation of a showing. Cleaning the home will convey that it’s been well cared for and that the house is less susceptible to any issues caused by neglect.

2. Finish the Honey-Do ListSome areas of the home, although not typically thought of as areas that would affect a home’s appeal, may be displayed as safety concerns on a home inspection report. Help yourself by replacing burnt-out light bulbs, testing smoke detectors, replacing air filters and unclogging drains.

3.  Check All Outlets: A sampling of electrical outlets will be tested as part of the home inspection to make sure they’re in good working order. Take note of which outlets are not functioning and replace them, or consider hiring an electrician to make sure all outlets and the electrical box are updated and in proper working condition.

4. Clear Areas for Easy Access: Home inspectors will be looking at the major systems of the home, including the foundation, HVAC systems, electrical systems, plumbing and even the water heater. Making sure they can easily access these areas, including the basement and attic, will save time during the inspection process.

 5. Consider a Pre-Listing Inspection: Hiring experienced and professional home inspectors can save a lot of headaches during the selling process. They will thoroughly go through the home and notify you of any potential issues ahead of listing the property.

If you are looking to sell your home, contact a top real estate team in your area to discuss what you should do to get top dollar.  The Mark Card Team brings over 40 years of combined experience to help you get to the finish line with the most amount of money in your pocket.  Call Mark Card or Jennifer Card at 386-566-8091. 


Tuesday, November 27, 2018

Port Orange Townhouses



Port Orange Townhouses

If your're looking for an affordable town-home with low maintenance, or if you're an on the go professional that does not want to handle yard work and exterior maintenance, then a Port Orange town-home could be the place for you! Click the link below for a town home in the middle of all the great activities Port Orange has to offer!
Port Orange Townhouses

Call Mark Card For Help Buying A Port Orange Townhouse (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

Pinnacle Park


Homes For Sale In Pinnacle Park 

Pinnacle Park is a gated community in the heart of the most desirable residential area of Port Orange. Parks, golf courses and shopping are just minutes away, and the community is in what is considered the best school zone in the area. Pinnacle Park is a great place to raise a family in a safe area with great activities. This could be the perfect place for you!



Click the link below to see the available homes in Pinnacle Park
Pinnacle Park


For Help Buying or Selling a Home Call Us Today
 (386)566-8091

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Pelican Bay

Homes For Sale In Pelican bay


Pelican Bay is located in the heart of Daytona Beach, minutes from the Daytona Beach International Airport, the world's most famous beach, and the Daytona International Speedway! The Club offers two of the best challenging golf courses in Daytona Beach, featuring 36 holes of renovated greens. Pelican Bay offers townhouses, small condo homes, and big and small single family homes. This is a great golf community to retire in or a safe place to raise your family. In a great location and so much to offer this is the community for all!

Click the link below to see the beautiful homes for sale in Pelican Bay 
Pelican Bay

For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Us Today (386)-566-8091

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Open Sunday 1-3! 812 Wingate Trail Port Orange PINNACLE PARK


Port Orange Open House!








If you are on the hunt for a home in a gated community, that is just around the corner from A+ schools, and perfect for families, come check out our open house at 812 Wingate Trail, Port Orange, FL 32128. 1-3 pm on 
Sunday November 11th. 

Tuesday, November 6, 2018

Daytona Beach Shores Luxury Homes

Daytona Beach Shores Luxury Homes

If you are looking to buy a beautiful luxury home on the edge of paradise, these Daytona Beach Shores luxury homes are great for you. With beautiful views and tons of actives for everyone, these luxury homes could be perfect for your family. Click the link below so see our beautiful luxury homes!
Daytona Beach Shores Luxury Homes

For Help Buying or Selling Your Shores Home Call Us Today (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Spruce Creek Fly In

Homes For Sale In The Spruce Creek Fly-In

Are you  looking for a beautiful luxury home, with a runway so you can fly high everyday? Spruce Creek Fly-In, a premier residential airpark in Port Orange, FL, is the place for you. This is a pristine gated community with a golf course and clubhouse, hangars, restaurant and runways. In a quiet area just close to all the activities and great schools with many home options, the Fly-In has something for everyone!

Click the link below to see the beautiful home in the Spruce Creek Fly In 
Spruce Creek Fly In

For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Us Today (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

Port Orange Luxury Homes

Port Orange Luxury Homes

Port Orange has much to offer from schools to parks to family activities. If looking for a beautiful, upscale home in a great community, then a Port Orange luxury home is for you. From waterfront to runway there are many options for homes in Port Orange. Click the link below for beautiful Port Orange luxury homes that are in safe communities, with A+ schools for every age just around the corner.
Port Orange Luxury Homes

For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Friday, October 19, 2018

Snow Bird Condos

Snowbird Condos 

With cold weather quickly approaching, now is a great time to migrate south for the winter. Port Orange, Florida is a beautiful family friendly environment, with a amazing beaches just down the street. If you need to escapes the harsh winters, and the ice covered roads, Port Orange is the place for you!

Click the link below for beautiful Port Orange condos    



For Help Buying or Selling Your Condo Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Town park


Homes For Sale in Town Park

The homes in Town Park are built with luxury in mind, with many featuring lavish pools and lush landscaping. The Estates at Town Park offer all of this comfort with an equaled convenience to shopping and dining in areas like the Pavilion at Port Orange, which is less than 3 miles from the Town Park gate. The houses in the Estates at Town Park are great for families, and could be the place for you!

If you are interested in buying a home in Town Park click the link below
Town Park

For Help Buying or Selling Call Us Today (386)566-8091

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Cypress Head Homes

Homes For Sale In Cypress Head


Cypress Head is one of the best golf communities in Port Orange, Florida. The setting is perfect for a retired couple in Florida, or a family with children. Located in Cypress Head is a clubhouse with restaurant, a community swimming pool, tennis courts, a driving range, and many lakes for fishing. There are townhomes for sale with tiled roofs, single family homes for sale, large estate homes for sale on estate sized lots, and medium sized homes available. Some homes come with  with 2 car garages, 3 car garages, RV garages, and some have additional golf cart garages. With so many options, Cypress Head can be the place for all!

If you are interested in buying a home in Cypress Head click the link below
Cypress Head

For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Port Orange Homes Under 200K

Port Orange Homes Under 200k


If you are an active family that likes to spend quality time together and go on fun family outings, these Port Orange homes have easy access to all the adventures this city has to offer. These homes are also just around the corner from A+ schools for every age!  Click the link below for an affordable Family home!
Port Orange Town Homes Under 200K

To help buy or sell a home in Port Orange call us today (386)566-8092!

Friday, September 28, 2018

The Sanctuary on Spruce Creek


Homes For Sale In The Sanctuary on Spruce Creek

The Sanctuary on Spruce Creek is a prestigious gated community in Port Orange, Florida.
Many of the homes in this community are large, luxurious homes that are architectural masterpieces. The community has large four and five bedroom homes as well as smaller homes for those who do not need large living spaces. The Sanctuary is situated in a quiet area off Taylor road, but still close to great schools, parks, shopping and excellent medical facilities. This could be your perfect place to raise a family!
If you are interested in buying a home in The Sanctuary on Spruce Creek click the link below

The Sanctuary on Spruce Creek


For Help on The Sanctuary on Spruce Creek Real Estate, 

Call The Mark Card Team (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, September 25, 2018

Daytona Beach Shores Oceanfront Condos

Daytona Beach Shores Oceanfront Condos!

Daytona Beach Shores is a charming and friendly oceanfront community. It has: beach, parks, recreational opportunities, and restaurants. This city has something for everyone! There is an executive golf course in The Shores along with a Tennis Club.  The white sandy beaches in Daytona Beach Shores along azure waters bring visitors from near and far. If you are searching for Daytona Beach Shores Condos for sale, be sure to check out our website to learn more. Oceanfront condos are great for relaxing in paradise with ease. Click the link below for beautiful oceanfront condos!

 Click here to see Daytona beach shores oceanfront condos  for sale. 

Image result for daytona beach shores condo view

Looking to Buy an Oceanfront Condo Call Us at 386-566-8091







Tuesday, September 18, 2018

Ponce Inlet Riverfront condos

Ponce Inlet Riverfront Condos 

Ponce Inlet is home to Florida's tallest lighthouse! Ponce Inlet also offers a marine science center with interactive exhibits, a boardwalk, observation tower and nature trails. These riverfront condos are great for easy access to all the amazing actives this city has to offer! It is also for those who want to relax by the water in the comfort of their own home. Click the link below for beautiful Ponce Inlet condos on the river! Ponce Inlet Riverfront Condos

Contact our team at (386)566-8091 for more information on all Ponce Inlet real estate and condos!

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Tips for Remodeling your Kitchen


Kitchen Trends

Each year brings about new home design trends, and one of the most popular rooms to study is the kitchen. Looking at trend studies can provide inspiration for homeowners considering updating or remodeling their kitchens, so check out these findings from the latest Houzz report:

   Organization and decluttering are top priorities. Seventy-five percent of homeowners want clutter-free countertops, and 63 percent said adequate storage was the most important feature in a kitchen. Custom storage options have become popular, especially pullout waste and recycling bins, utensil and dish organizers, and wine/bar cabinets.

*    Countertops are getting a new look. Countertops are the most commonly upgraded feature in the kitchen (94 percent), as well as the one homeowners are most willing to splurge on. Engineered quartz has also gained popularity over granite.

   Open layouts are in. Half of renovating homeowners open their kitchen to other interior spaces, with a  completely     open transition or double doors being the most common. One in 5 homeowners made their kitchen more open to the   outdoors, usually by installing exterior doors.

           Design is transitional. Iconic styles such as modern and traditional are falling out of favor as homeowners lean toward transitional, contemporary and farmhouse styles. And they are choosing shaker-style and flat-panel cabinets over raised-panel.

But what about color? White is a predominant color chosen for cabinets, countertops, walls and backsplashes, while wood is the top choice for floors. Natural wood continues to be most popular, but is on the decline as homeowners are choosing engineered wood or laminate flooring

Need Help buying or selling your home? 

Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Port Orange Homes in Golf Communities

Port Orange Homes In Golf Communities 

With a great community and wonderful people, Port Orange is a great place to settle down, and relax with a good game of golf with friends and family! Port Orange has great golf community homes! Cypress Head Golf Course is surrounded with beautiful homes and is located in the top school district in the area.  Port Orange is well-known for it's amazing schools.  If you are looking to make a move to Port Orange, we welcome you to contact us.

Click the link below to see the amazing golf community homes Port Orange has to offer Port Orange Golf Community Homes



For help buying a great home in a golf community, call Mark 386-566-8091

Monday, September 3, 2018

Forgotten Chores

Forgotten Chores


            Test for water leaks. Water leaks not only waste water, but can also increase your water bill and cause serious damage inside walls or other hard-to-see places. The easiest way to check for leaks is to take a reading of the water meter, avoid using your water for a few hours and then take another reading. If it changes, then you have a leak.

           Seal stone countertops. Natural stone counter tops are porous and absorb liquids, bacteria and stains, leading to irreversible damage. To seal counter tops, clean them with a stone-safe cleaner or soap and water, then let them dry. Then apply the sealer, wait 15 minutes and wipe off any excess.

          Clean dryer ducts. Lint, dirt and other residue can build up on the dryer screen, inside the lint trap, and around the machine and vents. Buildup blocks airflow, leading to less efficient drying or fires. Wash the lint screen with soap and water, use a long brush to clear out the lint trap, and vacuum out the tube and any stray lint.



          Reseal tile grout. Most grout is a mixture of sand and cement, which can absorb liquids, bacteria and stains. Before sealing, scrub the grout and tiles to remove dirt and particles. Then apply sealant and wipe off the excess. Wait 15 minutes, apply a second coat and remove the excess. Grout is successfully sealed when water beads on top.
Image result for forgotten chores

Need Help buying or selling your home? 

Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Friday, August 31, 2018

Ponce Inlet Oceanfront Homes

Ponce Inlet Oceanfront Homes

Do you want to come home to paradise everyday after work? These Ponce Inlet Oceanfront homes have easy access to all the attractions around the area, and a relaxing view to end the day! Click the link below to check out our amazing Ponce Inlet oceanfront homes!

Contact our team at (386)566-8091 for more information on all Ponce Inlet real estate!

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Letting Emotions Win Over Logic

When Buying A New Home It Might Get A Little Tough To not Let Emotions Cloud Logic.

     Searching for, and buying a new home can be stressful at times. You might think it would be easier to pick something you know you don't really want and settle so you can get past the stress of it all.
     Buyers can get caught up in giving the "winning" offer, and end up over paying or waiving contingencies they'll later regret. A realtor should help buyers assess comps carefully when the are considering a property and set firm prices up front in the event of a biding war. To avoid as much stress as possible, look for a realtor that can manage your expectations and put things into perspective for you. You may not be able to eliminate the stress completely but having a good realtor can definitely make a big difference!


To get in touch with a realtor to help manage your expectations, and help take away stress from the home buying/selling process call Mark Card 386-566-8091


Wednesday, August 22, 2018

Ponce Inlet Riverfront Homes

Ponce Inlet Riverfront Home

Looking to buy a relaxing riverfront home? Ponce Inlet is a beautiful place that has something for everyone! From Water sports, fishing and boating, to beaching, super restaurants and healthy living, Ponce Inlet is an incredible place to call home.  The unspoiled beauty is unmatched and you are close enough to enjoy all of the events of NASCAR and the surrounding beach communities. 

Click the link below to see amazing riverfront homes!
Ponce Inlet Riverfront

Contact The Mark Card Team at (386)566-8091 for more information on all Ponce Inlet real estate!

Friday, August 17, 2018

Villages of Royal Palm

Homes for sale in The Villages of Royal Palm

The Villages of Royal Palm is an impeccable, maintenance-free lifestyle community in Port Orange, Florida.The gorgeous Royal Club is a highlight of this community with so many activities and events, residents often feel it is an extension of their own home. Enjoy leisurely bike rides, relax by the swimming pool, or find a quiet area with a good book. This community is also located in a great spot very close to shopping and dinning, along with being near A+ schools. The Villages of Royal Palm could be your home!

If you are interested in buying a home in The Villages of Royal Palm click the link below
Villages of Royal Palm

For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Mark Card (386)-566-8091

Monday, August 13, 2018

Ten Year Home Maintenance Plan

The Ten Year Fix

Once your home hits the ten year mark, it is probably time for some home maintenance. Here are nine updates your home will benefit most from according to Zillow. 


Get new Carpet: After ten years it is likely that your carpet has rips, tears stains, and odors that won't come out even with a deep clean.
Replace the hot water tank: A water heater may not show signs before it leaks or fails, but after about ten years you should replace it before it's too late.
Update ceiling fans: If the fan's light bulb seems to burn out faster than normal it is time to replace it.
Buy a dishwasher: You'll likely get a more energy efficient model that will pay for itself over time.
Replace the garbage disposal:The average garbage disposal last about ten years because the blades will get dull.
Replace the washer and dryer: The average lifespan for both appliances is about eight years. replace them before problems start occurring.
Repaint inside and outside:There is no rule about when to repaint. It depends of where you live, but if it's been about ten year chances are it's about time to repaint.
Re-caulk the tubs, showers, and sinks:This is a simple update that you can do yourself.
Re-glaze the windows: Re-glazing the windows is easier and more cost efficient than replacing them.


Need Help Buying or Selling a Home? Call Mark (386)-566-8091

Wednesday, August 8, 2018

New Homes In Port Orange



Looking To Buy A Newer Home In Port Orange? 

Are you are looking for a new home in an A+ school district and to be close to beautiful beaches? Port Orange is a great place for families to grow and make great memories! Port Orange is the place to go for safe neighborhoods, tons of family activities, and A+ schools for every age, just around the corner!

  Click the link below to see newer Port orange homes built after 2010.New Port Orange Homes 

Related image

For Help Buying or Selling Port Orange Homes 

Call The Mark Card Team at (386)566-8091

Friday, August 3, 2018

Ponce Inlet Oceanfront Condos

Ponce Inlet Oceanfront Condos



Ponce Inlet is home to Florida's tallest lighthouse! Ponce Inlet also offers a marine science center with interactive exhibits, a boardwalk, observation tower and nature trails. Oceanfront condos in Ponce Inlet are great for those who want easy access to all the amazing actives this city has to offer along with beautiful ocean views!

 Click the link below for beautiful Ponce Inlet condos!Ponce Inlet Ocean Front Condos

Contact The Mark Card Team at (386)566-8091 for more information on all Ponce Inlet real estate and condos!

Wednesday, August 1, 2018

Ten Questions You Should Be Asked

Ten Questions Your Real Estate Agent should Ask.

Good real estate agents will ask their clients a series of questions to determine if they are ready to buy! These are 10 questions you should always be asked before buying.


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  1. Have you been in front of a good lender, and do you know what loan programs you qualify for?
  2. Are you in the military? You can qualify for a VA loan.
  3. What is your budget? What are you currently spending on rent? What would  you be comfortable with for monthly mortgage? (first time home buyers should not spend more than 25%-32% of their net income on housing.)
  4. Do you have any savings or family support for a possible gift toward a down payment?
  5. How long do you envision living in your first home?
  6. How far is a neighborhood from work or school?
  7. What do you need from the community in which  you want to purchase?
  8. Are you aware of the cost to maintain a home so that it retains its value? 
  9. How about utilities? Are you prepared for a water bill to water a large yard, or heating bills during winter months?
  10. What are your expectation from me?


To be asked the right questions, and have a clear understanding of what is best for you when buying for selling a home call Mark Card at (386)-566-8091

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

Pool Homes in Port Orange

Port Orange Pool Home!

Port Orange is a bustling community, with great people and opportunities! These Port Orange pool homes are great for family gatherings, cookouts with friends, and active kids! Click the link below to see all the pool homes Port Orange has to offer. 

For Help Buying Or Selling A Port Orange Pool Home Call Mark 386-566-8091

Tuesday, July 3, 2018

Small Flaws that can turn away buyers

Small Flaws That Can Turn Away Home Buyers

Small flaws that you don't think about when selling your house can be the reason the buyer says "lets keep looking". According to the Residential Real Estate Council here are some things to consider before selling your home.


Image result for cracked house

Old electrical panels: Buyers will want it "up to code". Get bids from multiple electricians to try and get a reduced repair quote, or offer an amount as a credit in lieu of repair at closing.

Ripped window screens: Window screens will wear out over time, but tears should be taken seriously. Either replace them before listing or offer a credit at closing.

Kitchen walls: Many people prefer open kitchens. If you think your kitchen walls make if feel cramped and that's stalling your sale, consider opening it up yourself

Small closets: There ins't much you can to to ease these concerns, but try to make your closet look roomier by de-cluttering. 


For Help Buying or Selling Your Home Call Mark Card

 (386)-566-8091 

Friday, June 29, 2018

Common Expenses For New Home Buyers

Common Expenses For New Home Buyers 

Here are some expenses to consider when buying your new Port Orange home.  Buyers often overlook important items when searching for a new home.  As the Port Orange home experts, The Mark Card Team has some advice on those hidden costs. Here are some average costs to consider when making your home buying decision:


*As reported through Florida Realtor Magazine
  • Bedroom furnishings: $635
  • Window covers: $215
  • Sofas: $724
  • Living room chair and tablas: $687
  • Dining room and kitchen furniture: $345 
  • Other Furnishings: $1,172
  • Outside additions or alterations: $2,106
  • Lawnmowers and yard equipment: $515
  • Washer and Dryer: $575
  • Computer systems: $300
  • Other appliances: $1,704
  • New fencing: $270
  • New pluming fixtures: $150
  • Other upgrades and repairs: $1,203
                                               Total: 10,601


To get more information on how much it would cost for your new home contact Mark Card (386)-566-8091 

Tuesday, June 26, 2018

5 DIY Basics


When you own your home, there is no landlord to go ask for help or fix a problem. So Realtor.com recommends homeowners learn to handle these basic problems:

Change the HVAC filters
    - Replace this quarterly to keep your air system running well and cut your energy bills
Cutting the water supply
    - Find and tag the shut-off valve when you first move in. Then you can easily find it and turn the handle 90 degrees when it needs to be turned off.
Unclogging drains
    - Learn about chemical drainers and drain snakes. The chemical drainers may work, but a drain snake is also a good option.
Resetting a circuit breaker
    - To do this just open the panel cover and find the breaker in the "off" position, then flip it "on."
Clean gutters
    - These need to be cleaned annually or every two years to avoid debris build-up that can trap water. Trapped water can seep into your home and cause thousands in damage.

Thursday, June 21, 2018

The direct contact movement

The Direct Contact Movement

 Being in direct contact with a top producing realtor in Port Orange, can help you maximize your real estate investment goals 

In today's society technology is more relevant that ever. You can use your phone or computer to do just about anything. In some ways it's a good thing, it makes our lives easier and more convenient, but it can do some damage as well. People forget about the basic act of communicating to a person directly, not by using a robot voice recording or a chat room. Most real estate agents are moving towards the technology side of things, but the top producing agents are doing just the opposite. The top producing agents are putting themselves in direct contact. By taking the time to pick up a phone and connect with someone, you are creating a bond, forming a trust between you and the clients. Not only does it help form connections but it helps things run more smooth and efficiently. 

To get into direct contact with a realtor about buying for selling your home call Mark Card (386)566-8091

Bricks And Mortar Retail Is Changing!

S. Ridgewood Commerical Lot for Sale in Port Orange 

Is your Commercial Property Attractive to Potential Buyers?


According to Florida Realtor magazine, Bricks and Mortar Retail is evolving. Citing changes in consumer needs, owners are working in conjunction with Realtors to change existing buildings to fit the needs of today's markets.

Online sales are leading many national retailers to vacate their "big box" stores. These strategies are proving helpful as the end of the year vacancy rate was 10.83% while the prior year was at 12%.

 Adding diversity by rezoning to new mixed-used developments has helped to create an appealing retail experience by using a strong mix of local tenants and national brands. Economic prosperity and population growth should bode well for retail in the upcoming years.

For any commercial real estate buying or selling needs,
call Mark Card 386-566-8091

Monday, June 18, 2018

Best Return for Your Investment

Best Rate of Return on Home Improvements 

Recently homebuyers are more attracted to home's structure than cosmetic details.When updating or renovating you want to earn the most return for the investment. Based on 2017 data here are the top-10 home improvements for return on investment, according to Remodeling magazine's 2018 Cost vs. Value report:

1. An updated garage door will give a 98.3% return.
2. Adding manufactured stone veneer equals a return of 97.1%
3. You will get a 82.8% return with a new wood deck addition.
4. Minor kitchen remodel will give an 81.1% return.
5. Replace your siding and get a return of 76.7%.
6. A 74.3% return will be earned with updated vinyl windows.
7. Giving your bathroom a universal bathroom design will equal a 70.6% return.
8. And a complete bathroom remodel usually earns a return of 70.1%.
9. When you update your windows with new wood windows replacements it earns a 69.5% return.
10. A new roof can equal a 68.4% return.

Thursday, June 14, 2018

Legal issues that could Stall a sale


Legal Issues That Could Stall A Sale!
When you're looking to buy a new home, there are unforeseen challenges that can arise.  Be sure to keep an eye out....
Issue #1: Foreign investment and real property tax act! This means a buyer who purchases U.S. real estate from a foreign seller is required to withhold and pay to the Internal Revenue Service at closing a percentage of the gross sale price. This amount is not the tax itself, it is a deposit to be applied against the sellers actual tax bill when the seller files a federal income tax return. FIRPTA presents a few issues for seller, especially in the sale of a highly leveraged property where the sellers may not have enough profit from the sale to satisfy the withholding and any loans secures by the property.
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Issue #2: Power of attorney! In many cases International owners of Florida real estate cannot be presented during the entire sales process. To keep a transaction moving, they might wish to sign a power of attorney.

Issue #3: Visas! Another challenge for international investors is immigration status. First of all, some visas allow them to stay on the United States for only a short period of time. For example tourism visas issued to residents 
of many Asian countries allow only a six-month stay. This present 
logistical challenges if the closing is scheduled near the end of their stay.

To avoid these time consuming issues and get into your new home call Mark and Jenn! (386)-566-8091

Monday, May 28, 2018

Bust the Myths!

Home Care Myths

We hear so many thing about how to take of your home and what is best for your home, but Realtor.com® shared the top myths that are a waste of your time and money.


  • Stone counter-tops are indestructible --- In reality, they scratch and stain easy, and regular household cleaners can dull the stone surface over time.
  • Your smoke detector's test button is foolproof --- The test button does not actually tell you if the smoke sensor works. To test it, light a match then blow it out near the detector to test if it detects the smoke.
  • Gutter guards are maintenance-free --- Gutter guards keep leaves out, but can still collect small debris. So, it's best to clean them out either annually or every 2 years.
  • A lemon is great way to clean the disposal --- A lemon's acid can corrode the metal of your disposal; the best natural cleaner is baking soda, which cleans the blades without damage.
  • Mow your lawn short and you'll mow less --- Your grass really needs 1 to 3 inches above the roots for a lush lawn, and removing more will leave your grass too weak.
  • CFLs cost too much, and are dangerous --- Compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) aren't as expensive as thought and don't cause any harm, but last an average of 5 years.
  • Trendy kitchen re-do will increase my home's value --- Trends come and go, so try repainting with trendy colors before remolding. And remodel with timeless elements. 

Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Spring Cleaning

For many Americans, spring equals allergies. Itchy and watery eyes, runny nose, congestion—it’s enough to make you want to clean everything or skip just skip spring. But with these five steps from DIY Network, you can help reduce allergens in your home and get it clean for spring.


  1. Remove clutter: Less stuff means fewer places for allergens to linger and a clearer space. 
  2. Clean the air: A well-ventilated house is your first line of defense. Use HEPA filters in your air conditioning system, maintain the humidity at about 50 percent and keep your windows closed when pollen counts are highest in the early morning and between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. 
  3. Clean the bathroom: Mold tends to gather there. 
  4. Reduce dust-generators: Fabrics and carpeting create dust by breaking down fibers. Swap carpets out for washable throw rugs. 
  5. Make smart landscaping decisions: Avoid planting trees such as maple, birch and ash, which have allergenic particles that can trigger discomfort and spread pollen on your outdoor areas. 

See more of us as www.MarkCardTeam.com!


Thursday, February 8, 2018

Little Home Helpers

Help Your Home Value







Increasing the value of your home before putting it on the market is important, and your budget shouldn’t hold you back. Here are a few, simple tips to improve the look and feel of your home fast—all for under $400:
1. Low-maintenance lawn care: Overgrown lawns and bushes will cause your home to stand out—in a bad way. For a few hundred dollars, hire a landscaping service to tidy up. Adding plants and trees native to your region will also help boost the home’s curb appeal.

2. Deep house cleaning: Make sure your home says “clean” to potential buyers when they walk in the door. Even if you clean your home regularly, hire a cleaning service for a thorough top-to-bottom scrubbing.

3. Make your home feel bigger: You can’t change the square-footage of your home, but you can make each room in your house feel larger. A sunny room feels more open—replace heavy drapes with vertical blinds or shutters. Also, clear the clutter. Add shelving or storage space to help organize.

4. Replace and update: Dated wallpaper, old lighting fixtures, popcorn ceilings and broken features, such as ceiling fans, could turn many buyers away. Making these changes will add dollar signs to the value of your home instantly.

5. Add money-saving efficiencies: Updates to make your home more energy-efficient are a big bonus for buyers because it will save them money in the long term. Many utility companies provide free energy audits so they can show you how to maximize the energy efficiency of your home. Installing a water filtration system is an inexpensive addition that will also lower the buyer’s grocery bills—no more bottled water.