Hey,

I’d love to share my personal HOT real estate investment tip with you this week!

Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel on YouTube where you’ll get notifications of my hot tips weekly, hot tips that support your most important investment decisions.

This week’s tip:“How to Buy a House If You Are Self Employed” 

Let’s take a look at what should you be aware of. There are a few ways to do this, I recommend watching my YouTube post now for a super detailed answer. You’ll get the full answer to this question and many more… Let’s do this!

WATCH HERE

When you subscribe to my YouTube Channel you’ll get hot real estate investing tips every week, that support you reaching your American Real Estate Dream! Terry’s support doesn’t just stop at YouTube and no real estate question is a silly one. If you would like to speak to me personally please book an appointment today! 

Happy Trails,

Until next week…

Terry

Ps. please book an appointment here and let’s discover your American Real Estate dream together!  
PPs. If you would like to learn more about Secret Market Timing and Market Cycles, please watch my complimentary webinar… 
Watch now:  The Secrets of Market Timing & How to Profit from Anomalies  (while everyone else is asleep at the wheel)

 

Terry Records 
National Real Estate Investment Coach.
Serving Clients Nationwide including Real Estate Agent.
Broker/Realtors/Licensed Contracting & Home Inspections.
We Answer the Phone as well: 239-887-2163   

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Terry Records, 2710 Del Prado Blvd S, CAPE CORAL, FL 33904

The post Terry’s HOT Tip: How to Buy a House If You Are Self Employed appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Nov. 12, 2018 – It took some coercing in the past year from city officials and residents, but Volusia County finally appears set – for the first time since 2003 – to ask developers to chip in more for road improvements around new growth.

The question, though – one that’s expected to be answered during a council meeting Tuesday – is how much will impact fees be raised.

A consultant has recommended hikes of more than 100 percent in some categories to compensate for fees that haven’t kept up with rising construction costs. That option is expected to generate an additional $7 million a year for road fixes. But building industry leaders and some council members worry an increase that steep would stifle development or drive up the cost of homes.

While it could make homes more expensive, experts say, other counties that have raised impact fees recently, like Orange County, haven’t experienced a slump in growth.

Still, one alternative that has been tossed around is to roll out increases over a period of years, instead of hitting developers all at once.

“The impact fees need to be adjusted and they will be,” said County Chair Ed Kelley. “I think there will probably be a discussion about how much and how to do this. I’m in favor of phasing it in because I think that would be fair to everyone.”

That’s the approach that the Volusia Building Industry has suggested. In a Nov. 6 letter to the council, the association’s president wrote that the “current fee structure is broken and cumbersome” but cautioned against the proposed increase.

“Impact fees, like all other development and construction costs, are a component of a new home’s price,” wrote Paul Rechichar. “Any regulatory fee or increase in costs limits access to homeownership.”

The impact fees, he wrote, should “rise in a more balanced way,” and not all at once in order to avoid a major stall in the industry that’s already “facing stiff increases from labor rates, material costs, tariffs, increasing interest rates, scarce land supply and increasing regulation.”

Whatever is decided, new impact fees won’t go into effect until 90 days after they’re adopted.

Tuesday’s council meeting, which also includes the selection of a consultant firm to lead the search for a new county manager, starts at 10 a.m. It will be held at the county administration complex, located at 123 W. Indiana Ave. in DeLand.

The impact fee issue rose to the forefront as local officials were scrambling for solutions to a pressing problem: a noticeable need for new roads and repairs to existing ones – $1.4 billion worth, according to a needs assessment compiled by local officials countywide – but not enough money to fix them.

In an attempt to bring in more revenue, city and county leaders were pushing for a referendum on a half-cent sales tax that would have gone before voters this year. The county seemed poised to sign off on the ballot measure, until mounting criticism over the council’s reluctance to raise impact fees convinced officials it would be a bad idea to ask voters to pay more before they asked the same of developers.

A higher sales tax – projected to generate $42 million a year – would produce far more money for roads than raising impact fees, but a consultant’s report showed just how much money Volusia has been missing out on by not keeping current with its fees.

To bring those fees up to date, the study conducted by Clancy Mullen, a principal with Duncan Associates, recommends increases of 107 percent for shopping/retail centers, 135 percent for hotels and 147 percent for single-family homes.

Compared with neighboring counties, the proposal would move Volusia’s impact fees for homes from the low-end of the scale to the high end. The suggested updated fee of $5,379 – roughly $3,000 more than the current rate – is less than what Orange, Osceola, Brevard, Lake, Alachua, Polk and Indian River ask of developers for new homes.

After the report was finalized, the county gauged public opinion about the proposed hikes through a series of town hall meetings. Several residents encouraged the council to follow the consultant’s proposal. Former county administrators were also there with the same plea.

At one meeting, Dick Kelton, a former assistant county manager, noted how much worse roads have gotten since impact fees were first implemented. At another, Mary Anne Connors, who retired as deputy manager in 2015, advised the council to “take action now” to the fullest extent possible.

“This is absolutely critical in terms of fairness,” Connors said at an Oct. 30 meeting in Daytona Beach. “Until the county has addressed impact fees, as a fairness issue, and brings them completely up to date, there cannot be broad support for the sales tax, which is the real answer for what needs to happen.”

She continued: “They (impact fees) need to be fully implemented. Not phased. They’ve been phased for years.”

Copyright © 2018 The News-Journal, Daytona Beach, Fla., Dustin Wyatt. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

The post More Florida Metros Studying Higher Impact Fees on New Homes appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

NEW YORK – Oct. 23, 2018 – The top recommendation for a U.S. retirement? Lancaster, Pa. But three Florida cities – Fort Myers, Sarasota and Lakeland ranked in the top 10.

Fort Myers took the No. 2 spot in U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 list of the “100 Best Places to Retire in the USA.” According to this year’s review, Lancaster’s housing affordability and residents’ high rank for happiness helped it to bump Sarasota, Fla., from the number one position that it held last year.

Sarasota was ranked as the third top spot for retirement in 2019, but a non-coastal Florida city, Lakeland, held down the No. 10 spot.

To come up with a ranking, U.S. News & World Report evaluated the country’s 100 largest metro areas to see how well they met retirees’ expectations, such as in housing affordability, desirability, health care, and overall happiness.

“Deciding where to retire is a big decision,” says Emily Brandon, senior editor for retirement. “The ‘Best Places to Retire’ offers a way for future retirees to make a more informed decision based on what matters the most to them. Whether that be housing affordability, access to quality hospitals, or the desirability of a place in general, the rankings offer a comprehensive list that can point people in the best direction for their needs.”

2019’s top 10 best places to retire:

1. Lancaster, Pa.
2. Fort Myers, Fla.
3. Sarasota, Fla.
4. Austin, Texas
5. Pittsburgh
6. Grand Rapids, Mich.
7. Nashville, Tenn.
8. San Antonio
9. Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
10. Lakeland, Fla.

Source: “100 Best Places to Retire in the USA,” U.S. News & World Report (October 2018)

© Copyright 2018 INFORMATION INC., Bethesda, MD (301) 215-4688

The post 3 Florida cities top U.S. News and World Report’s retirement list appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

Bonita Beach

Perfectly positioned just south of Fort Meyers’ Beach, this small coastal city is truly wonderful for any outdoor lover. With ever-popular Lover’s Key just nearby, you can spend all the time you want kayaking and fishing in your own backyard. At the same time, you’re not far from the true wilderness with spots like the Everglades and the Fakahatchee Strand, which both offer unparalleled adventure.

Marco Island

Another city, one that flies below the radar in terms of properties in Florida, is Marco Island. Because it’s a little more secluded, it also offers some of the best outdoors in the world. In fact, the Ten Thousand Islands are right in this area’s backyard, as part of the Everglades too. This labyrinth of waterways provides activities like kayaking, as well as wildlife watching, boating, and so much more.

St. Petersburg

Although many locals might not think of St. Petersburg as a hub for outdoor activities, you’ll find that it still offers plenty. First, the city itself is full of world-class amenities, from dining to museums. Yet, with places like Fort De Soto and Weedon Island nearby, you have so many options available to you for outdoors. Whether you’re into camping or jet skiing, the city has something for you.

Ocala

But for a change of pace, let’s look at a Florida city that offers something beyond water activities. And that option is Ocala. This is another spot that is often overlooked but has a range of choices if you love the outdoors. For one, access to the Ocala National Forest is definitely worth it. With many different areas within the forest, you can get your fix for spring swimming, hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and more.

Cedar Key

Finally, Cedar Key is a sleepy island town founded on fishing. And it is filled with outdoor activities that are a little more off-the-beaten-path. Fishing and kayaking are two that remain the most popular, but there’s also wildlife watching, boating, and more. Of course, if you just like to get a little sun, it’s also a wonderful place simply to be outdoors while avoiding the crowds.

Are you an outdoor lover looking for your next place to live? Southwest Florida has a number of options and the homes are incredibly affordable. Let’s talk!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post 5 Amazing Florida Cities for Outdoor Lovers appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

As metro areas throughout Florida continue to gain value, we’re hearing more and more people asking a big question. What’s the next spot to keep your eye on? Of course, it all depends on what your goals are for real estate. After all, buying an affordable single-family home might entail different factors than purchasing a condo for rental income.

At the same time, there’s been much attention paid to sleepy coastal towns throughout the state. From hip, quaint downtowns to stunning ocean-front views, Florida real estate has a few gems, as well as diamonds in the rough. And today, we’ll look at a few!

Port Charlotte for affordability near major metros

You won’t hear many people talking about Port Charlotte… not yet anyway. Because this area is between several major metros, it hasn’t gotten as much attention. And with Sarasota and St. Petersburg to the north and Cape Coral and Fort Myers to the south, you can understand why that’s been the case. For Florida real estate, these metros are gaining incredible value. And that’s exactly why Port Charlotte is worth looking at. In the coming years, more people might be turning to this spot for affordability.

Melbourne for quiet, beachside Florida properties

This is another area, on the east coast of Florida, that’s not often mentioned. But we’re hearing more and more people talking about this coastal city. For one, the beaches are amazing. There’s also plenty of outdoors to enjoy. Yet, the real estate has remained cost-effective and the community fairly laid back. In coming years, we’ll likely see more interest in this city when it comes to Florida real estate.

Dunedin for a quaint downtown experience

This tiny coastal town in Florida has real estate that’s getting snatched up very quickly right now. While there’s still affordable properties if you know where to look, the area is growing quickly. And when you visit, you’ll see why… the small downtown has become a locals’ paradise, with tons of craft breweries, hip dining, and more. Still, the community has retained its small-town Florida charm, which has made it all that more special.

Anna Maria for upscale but off-the-radar

Our final stop today is Anna Maria. We’ve talked a bit about what Anna Maria has to offer, and for Southwest Florida real estate, it’s worth a look. Now, it can be more upscale than our other choices. But because the island is well-hidden, you feel like you’re in your own slice of heaven when you’re here. Depending on your lifestyle, this one might be just the right fit if you want to get away from it all.

Are you in the market for up-and-coming Florida real estate? There’s still lots of possible value to capture, and I’d be happy to show you the possibilities!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post Sleepy Coastal Cities, what are Florida’s Next Spots to Watch? appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

Every month, we’ve been touring properties together in Southwest Florida. And not just any properties… real properties that you can buy right now. For my clients, I value balancing the data against what we’re seeing in neighborhoods throughout our area. What that means is that my team focuses on trends, but also ensures we’re identifying opportunities within those trends.

And for July, we have 2 more Southwest Florida properties for you. Each of these properties caught my eye for different reasons. But each represents a possible opportunity. Of course, you’ll still want to view them in person to get specifics (and I’m always happy to tour a property with you to provide you with expert advice). Still, they provide a good jumping off point to see just where the Southwest Florida real estate market is today.

Chic and spacious in Southwest Florida
With 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, this Southwest Florida property definitely got my attention. And it’s close to the water too! The truth is that Cape Coral, affectionately known as “the Cape” by locals, has tons of water access. This means that you can enjoy plenty of our area amenities right in your own backyard. But I also love that this property is right outside Downtown Cape Coral. It’s also just a short jump to Sanibel too.

This home also has attractive terrazzo flooring, which is coming back in style. Also, the kitchen has been updated, it has lots of windows, and a spacious lot. Granite countertops? Yes, please! What’s not to love? The property also has a certain quaint appeal to it that I really love as well. And at this price, you know you might be looking at a deal. Might be worth an in-person look!

A Possible Diamond in the Rough

For first-time homebuyers or investors, you might be tempted to overlook this property at first glance. After all, from the pictures, you might be asking if there’s anything special about it. Well, that’s a great question. In how many other metro areas can you get a 3-bedroom home near beaches and other outdoor activities, and all under $150,000?

As central Cape Coral is seeing rising value, more and more people are starting to turn their eye toward this part of town too. But let’s talk about the property itself. With a creative mind and a touch of attention, this property could really shine. As I look over the pictures, I’m imagining all the possibilities –  and there’s plenty of them! These are the sorts of lower cost properties I look for, in possible up-and-coming areas, where smaller enhancements can transform the home completely.

Are you on the hunt for properties in Southwest Florida? I’d be happy to tour these 2 or any other property in the area with you, in-person!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post Touring Southwest Florida Properties in July appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

You’re on the hunt for a property for sale, but not just any property; you’re searching for your next dream home. Or maybe you’ve just dipped your toe into the investing world, and you’re ready to find a property that will help you build your portfolio.

In any case, your financial goals are a huge part of the picture in either situation. And with my upcoming books in real estate investment and wealth generation, we dig into just how important it can really be. After decades of buying and selling homes, I’ve discovered there’s more to it than just purchasing the first property for sale that you see. So, today, we’re diving in to find out how to make real estate work for you.

List out your criteria for your next home

How can you meet your financial goals if you don’t know what you’re balancing them against? Maybe you know that a pool is a must-have for you, but a more modest square footage is fine. Or maybe you’re more flexible on which part of a metro area meets your lifestyle. Once you list out what you want and need in your next home, you’ll have an easier time narrowing down the options. And an easier time balancing all your factors against your overall financial situation.

Perform your own financial audit

The word “audit” doesn’t have to be a scary word… at least, not when you perform it yourself. Now, you can always pair up with a professional, which can be a big help. But you’d be surprised how many people never bother to truly see what their current financial situation is. From credit scores to monthly budgets, you want to have an idea of where you are, so you can match a property for sale to your unique situation.

Be realistic about the process of finding property for sale

Of course, there’s one thing you may not have heard many people talk about. And that’s how finding a property for sale is a process. If we could all find a diamond in the rough when looking at our first property, anyone could be an expert real estate agent. But the truth is that each property is a mix of factors that all need to be taken into account when you’re buying, for investment, long-term or principal residence.

Search for hidden possibilities

I’ve made a successful career in investing and real estate by finding those hidden possibilities. And they do exist. Your best chance to succeed is to work with an agent or investor who has the experience in both buying and selling, but also in assessing individual financial goals. The fact of the matter is that each person’s financial situation is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer, just like there’s not a one-size-fits-all property. But decades of working with clients to meet their financial goals has taught me that the possibilities really are endless.

Keep an eye on my blog! My upcoming books on real estate and investing will be here before you know it, and you don’t want to miss the big announcement!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post Finding Property for Sale that Meets Your Financial Goals appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

If you’ve considered owning a home in Southwest Florida, or just about anywhere in Florida for that matter, you’ve probably heard a few “facts” about the area. But just like any part of the country, there’s a more rich and interesting story right below the surface. Truthfully, once you’ve lived here, you start to appreciate just how amazing it can be. From fascinating histories to new beginnings for the future, SWFL is multi-faceted. And today, we’re going to expel some of those myths that you might have heard!

Myth: Southwest Florida real estate is all condos

When you think of homes in Southwest Florida, you might imagine condos as far as the eye can see. And we do, in fact, have plenty of attractive condos if that’s what you’re in the market for. However, SWFL and Florida, in general, both have countless other options, from single-family homes to luxury properties.

Myth: We all live on waterfront property

While Cape Coral has unprecedented access to the water, you don’t have to be right on the water if you don’t want to. In fact, in Southwest Florida, you have the choice. Want to live on a more spacious rural property away from it all? You can do that. What about 15 minutes from the beach, but right in the center of one of our hip downtowns? You can do that too!

Myth: Florida isn’t good for new families

From single college graduates to new families, Florida is incredibly diverse. What this means is that there’s something for you no matter what your lifestyle is. And with growing amenities, including world-class outdoors, new families are more than welcome and the kids are sure to have lots to do!

Myth: It’s always hot

Yes, the summers are warm. But owning a home in Southwest Florida also means no shoveling snow… or dealing with months of endless rainy days. And in reality, our state has very pleasant winters and springs, so much so that snowbirds flock to our shores throughout these times of the year.

Myth: There aren’t many amenities

With a budding food scene, tons of craft breweries popping up, art, entertainment, and outdoors… well, you can see how Florida isn’t just beaches anymore. In the past 5 years, many cities up and down our coast have become hubs for culture and good times.

Myth: Real estate can be expensive

Now, this myth couldn’t be further from the truth. When you want to own a home in Southwest Florida, you have many affordable options. You might even be surprised to discover that our luxury real estate is more affordable compared to other parts of the country!

Are you considering a property in SWFL? I’m your source for the area, and I’m always happy to answer questions!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post 6 Misconceptions about Owning a Home in Southwest Florida appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

While Southwest Florida has continued to get more and more diverse, you probably know that it also has a reputation for being a phenomenal place to retire. And for good reason! On the one hand, you only need to look across the country to see prices going through the roof when it comes to properties.

In places like New York or California, it can be nearly impossible to find a home that fits your needs without breaking the bank. And not only that, but you may be missing out on other options that make more sense for retirees. Yet, Southwest Florida has condos that are a superb choice if you’re retiring, and today, we’ll see why that’s the case.

Affordability over a traditional house

Especially in Southwest Florida, condos can be really affordable. Yet, they remain as attractive as a traditional home. This can make the difference in keeping within your budget for your retirement years.

Relaxation and quiet

Because many condo communities are geared toward 55 years old and up, it’s not difficult to find a unit in a quiet spot. This means more relaxation, which many retirees prefer.

Access to world-class amenities

But even if you’re retiring, you probably still want to have plenty to do. And that’s why a local condo might be right for you. With amenities like fishing, golf, and more, you have a ton of options for right there in your own backyard. Many condo communities also have amenities like pools and clubhouses as well.

Community and neighbors

On that note, one reason that people love condos in Southwest Florida is the community. Many have activities and get-togethers where you can connect with other retirees who have chosen our paradise to call “home.”

Security features

If you prefer that extra bit of security for your home as well, you have options with local condos. Some communities have on-site and over-night security. Many also incorporate other features to ensure a safe environment.

Skipping the maintenance

Mowing the lawn, taking care of the hedges, and power-washing the building. These are all included in most condo units, so you don’t have to worry about them the way you would with a traditional home. This frees you up to really take advantage of your retirement years, instead of doing chores.

An attractive investment

When you choose a condo in Southwest Florida, you’re also adding an investment to your family portfolio. With strong growth, properties are continuing to gain value in SWFL, and with a condo, there are several options, from renting to vacation properties. By buying one for retirement, you’re giving your family an asset for their future at the same time.

Location, location, location

You’ve heard me say it before, and I’ll say it again: Southwest Florida is a paradise on earth. Some of the best beaches in the world, a growing dining and entertainment scene, and even shopping. Our region offers you an unmatched lifestyle with prices that are in-line with retirement needs.

Are you considering a condo in SWFL? I’d be happy to show you all your options!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post Benefits to Purchasing a Condo in Southwest Florida for Retirement appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

Because I’m a Realtor in Southwest Florida, many of my clients may be moving from another part of the country. After all, our state has one of the highest percentages of non-native residents. And it’s not hard to see why: bright, sunny weather nearly the entire year, friendly faces, stunning beaches, and attractive, affordable properties. That’s what Florida is all about.

But, whether you’re moving to Southwest Florida or San Diego, it can often be challenging to connect with your new community. This is especially true if you’re buying a home in a large metropolitan area. So, on that note, I knew I had to put together a few ideas for how you can easily get to know your area and feel like part of the community quickly.

Sign up for MeetUp Groups

If you haven’t had a chance to visit MeetUp.com yet, it’s a site I like to recommend to anyone new to an area. On sites like these, you can find local groups who are interested in exactly what you’re interested in.

Visit local attractions

In Southwest Florida, we have our own fair share of tourist attractions throughout the state. From Disney to the Baily Matthews Shell Museum, there’s plenty to see. Even though numerous tourists visit these places each year, so do residents! And it’s a great, easy way to get introduced to our area.

Get to know the art, entertainment, and dining scenes

From the paintings at the Ringling to local craft beer, Southwest Florida has a growing community around art, entertainment, and dining. And across the country, these cultural resources are the perfect starting place to get to know your community.

Enjoy local parks and outdoor amenities

This one is an excellent way to get to know your area better and connect with your community. Locally we have numerous greenways and blueways to enjoy, from kayaking to biking.

Visit local farmers’ markets

In recent years, many cities throughout the country have welcomed farmers’ markets into their communities. In reality, these are a wonderful connecting point for locals and their area growers, craftsmen, and more.

Check news websites for local events

Most areas also have event pages on their news or media websites. These are an outstanding way to find concerts, happenings, and more. When you attend them, you’ll also get to meet regular people with the same interests as you!

Catch a sports games or two

Of course, local sporting events remains a big way to meet fellow residents. In many areas, people who live in the area might be incredibly passionate about their teams, and you’ll get to taste a bit of that local pride.

Drive around and tour homes

And if you’re still in the market for your next home, I always recommend simply driving around and looking at houses. Through this activity, you get to understand the layout of your area, while just enjoying its ambience.

Are you looking for your next home in Southwest Florida? I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have about the area!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post Connecting with Your Local Community appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.