Levin Rinke Realty Buyer's Guide 2023

BUYER’S GUIDE

WHY HERE?

The Florida Panhandle and coastal Alabama are uniquely captivating areas that combine natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant cultural scene to create an unforgettable destination.

The beautiful towns and cities here are places where history, culture, and family come together to create an extraordinary experience.

Museums & Attractions

Historic Pensacola Village

National Naval Aviation Museum

Pensacola Lighthouse & Museum

Pensacola Children’s Museum

Quina House Museum

Pensacola MESS Hall

UWF Archaeology Program

Theatres

The Saenger Theatre

Pensacola Little Theatre

Family Attractions

The Blue Wahoos

Gulf State Park

Gallery Night

Palafox Market

The Pensacola Ice Flyers

Owa Parks & Resort

The Wharf Festivals

Hangout Fest

The Crawfish Festival

The Seafood Festival

Foo Foo Festival

Jazz Fest

Fiesta Pensacola

Mardi Gras

Accolades

Southern Living’s #1 Most Beautiful White Sand Beach in Florida

Southern Living’s Favorite Fall Beach Destination #19

Southern Living’s The South’s Best Family Getaways #6

Southern Living’s Best Beaches in America #11

Southern Living’s Best Florida Beaches for Families #8

Southern Living’s The South’s Best Beach Towns #8

TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice #20 Best Beaches in the US

Resonance Consultancy’s America’s Best Cities #81

Scholar’s Best Cities to Live In #33

U.S. News & World Report’s #3 Best Place to Retire in the Nation

Forbes Best Placed to Live in Florida (2023, #10)

U.S. News & World #28 Best Place to Live in the U.S.

REASONS TO WORK WITH A LEVIN RINKE AGENT

1. Extensive Local Connections: With over 300 agents, our strong network allows us to find the perfect listing for our clients. This network also serves as a valuable resource when additional support or assistance is needed.

2. Comprehensive Training: We offer our agents ample training opportunities. This ensures they remain focused on and prioritize the most impactful aspects of the real estate industry, ultimately leading to the successful completion of smooth transactions.

3. Global Network: As a member of LeadingRE, we have access to a worldwide network of real estate professionals. This global reach allows us to cater to the needs of home buyers looking to relocate.

4. Established Reputation: With over 30 years in business and more than $5.5 billion in residential

real estate sales, we have built a solid reputation of quality and service. Our experience and expertise empower our clients by simplifying the home buying and selling process.

5. Expert Market Knowledge: Our agents possess indepth market knowledge, enabling them to provide valuable insights and guidance to home buyers. They stay up-to-date with the latest market trends and conditions, ensuring informed decision-making.

6. Gold Standard of Customer Service: We prioritize exceptional customer service. Our agents go above and beyond to deliver a personalized and seamless experience, ensuring that home buyers feel supported and satisfied throughout the entire process.

ABOUT LEVIN RINKE REALTY

Since 1991, Levin Rinke Realty has been committed to empowering our clients. We simplify the buying and selling process through expert knowledge, dynamic marketing, and the gold standard of customer service.

Timing is crucial in real estate and we’re here to guide you through a successful buying experience. Our strategy includes providing well-informed market information and personalized pricing approaches, designed to meet the needs of buyers in our local market and around the world.

When buying or selling a home, you need a trusted advisor to guide you through every step of the process. Working with a Levin Rinke agent will give you just that.

Our agents will provide you with the thoughtful guidance you need to make informed decisions.

At Levin Rinke Realty, we are committed to providing you with the highest level of service and expertise, and we look forward to partnering with you to achieve your real estate goals.

ONLINE HOME SEARCH

We go the extra mile in helping you search for your new home.

Experience the power of our mobile site (www.LevinRinkeRealty. com), designed to showcase available listings and provide neighborhood and local real estate market information.

With our user-friendly online home search page, you can narrow down the exact type of homes you are looking for filtered to your needs, preferred location, and price range. Our goal is to offer a seamless and enjoyable browsing experience.

This website is more than just a platform to view available homes; it’s a valuable resource for anyone interested in our local real estate market.

Discover insights on different neighborhoods through our community guides and gain a comprehensive understanding of local market conditions with our market trend stats.

Additionally, current homeowners that are interested in moving can easily determine the current market value of their property using our free home valuation tool—just a few clicks away.

At Levin Rinke Realty, we believe our commitment to providing exceptional online resources sets us apart from the competition, giving our clients a distinct advantage in their home search.

WE’RE LOCAL. WE’RE GLOBAL.

1.2 million annual global transactions

$586 billion total annual home sales volume

550 companies

LEADING REAL ESTATE COMPANIES OF THE WORLD

We are proud to be a hand-selected affiliate of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, a global network of more than 550 top-tier real estate firms in over 70 countries, spanning six continents.

As a buyer, this global network of brokerages means that we can help you relocate anywhere.

By working with us, you have access to listings from all corners of the world, which increases the chances of finding your new property quickly and at the best possible price.

Our network is comprised of the very best real estate companies and the most talented professionals in the world, so you can trust that you are in good hands and your transaction will be handled with the utmost professionalism and expertise.

At Levin Rinke Realty, we are committed to providing our clients with warm, friendly, and professional service. We believe that every client deserves the best possible experience, no matter where they are in the world.

So, when you’re looking to purchase a new home, we are here to help you navigate the global real estate market with confidence and ease.

4,900 offices 70+ countries

138,000 sales associates

RELOCATION ACROSS TOWN OR ACROSS THE GLOBE

Whether you are buying or selling a home, moving across town or around the world, our relocation program through LeadingRE is your single source for relocation help. Our Relocation Services Division has assisted many home buyers and sellers with the entire relocation process.

With dedicated relocation associates just for our clients, we have exclusive opportunities to connect you with exceptional agents virtually anywhere in the world. Our inhouse relocation professionals will assist you and follow your progress from beginning to end. Having this type of service takes the stress out of any type of moving situation and Levin Rinke Realty has one of the highest conversion rates throughout the network, so you can’t go wrong!

THE HOMEOWNERSHIP PROCESS

Understanding Your Goals

To ensure a successful search process, it is crucial to begin by defining your goals, timelines, and ideal lifestyle. This step allows us to tailor the experience and exceed your expectations. We understand that a home is more than just a place to live; it’s where lasting memories are made.

Loan Pre-Approval

Our associates can connect you with our partners at Reliance Mortgage to complete the pre-approval process and identify the right mortgage for you. We can also offer guidance in finding the right lender for you regardless of our affiliation. Being pre-approved for your loan expedites the closing process and helps get you in your new home quickly.

Preparing Your Best Offer

When you find the perfect home and are ready to make an offer, it’s important to understand the property’s value and other terms for a successful outcome. We provide our agents with access to unique resources that offer clear knowledge of a home’s current and future value.

With You Every Step of the Way

Our agents are local market experts who possess the skills to negotiate effectively, leverage technology, and guide you through every step of the buying process. We identify opportunities, counsel you, and provide information until you’re 100% confident in finding your perfect home. We are committed to being by your side, supporting you throughout the entire journey.

We know the value of education, so it is our goal to inform our clients every step of the way during the home buying process. We want to empower you to make confident decisions as you invest in your future!

Take a look at this list of mile markers, and check on them throughout the process to see where you’re at on your homebuying journey.

1. Prequalification

The prequalification process gives you an amount you are likely to be approved for if you were to apply for a loan. This is an initial step in the mortgage transaction that benefits you as a borrower. Getting prequalified is a simple and quick process, and can even be done over the phone.

2. Look at Homes

Looking at homes is and should be FUN! I know this and prioritize my clients’ needs and wants before hitting the road to look at homes. At this stage in the process, it’s important to discuss the intricate details of each micro market you’re considering and cull down to a modest list of homes you’re ready to tour.

3. Evaluate the Options

After you’ve toured properties, it’s important to evaluate several details regarding the home.

• Location

• Current Price

• Features

• Cost of ownership on each individual property

• Goals for current purchase

Discussing your thoughts on why you do and do not want to purchase a particular property will help me write the best offer and terms for your situation OR find another property more suitable for your needs.

4.

Make an Offer

Making an offer is more than just the purchase price. Terms and conditions as well as differing opinions of market value will come into play. I can honestly explain to you how strong of an offer you are bringing to the table when bidding on a home.

5. Negotiate

If the initial offer is not accepted, the seller has the right to counter or decline the offer altogether. More often than not, the seller will counter, at which time I will communicate with you the terms in which the seller will agree to. Buyers and sellers may go back and forth several times to achieve a win-win for all parties.

6. Offer Accepted

You and the seller have now come to terms on the purchase of their property and it is time to get to work to ensure both parties end up at the closing table!

7.

Escrow Deposit

The earnest money deposit is agreed to in the terms written in the contract. This amount is often a low percentage of the agreed purchase price, but can sometimes be more depending on terms. You are responsible for getting the deposit to the closing company within the amount of time determined by the contract.

8. Deadlines

Deadlines are important! You are responsible for providing the deposit, and all other items needed to the mortgage and title company based on the contract timelines. I assist to ensure all inspections, appraisals, and other items are scheduled and completed within the time frame listed in the contract.

9.

Title

The title of the property will be checked to ensure ownership can convey to you without any issues. Generally title insurance is issued as well, protecting you from issues that could arise from the past.

10. Inspection

Inspections are an important step in the process. You will want to have a professional look at all of your major systems to determine the condition.

11. Home Insurance

Insurance is an important component of your purchase. You will want to insure one of your largest assets is protected.

12. Survey

A survey will show the property lines and allow you to make sure your property is not encroaching on another’s property and that no one is encroaching on your property.

13. Appraisal

An appraiser will give their opinion of the home’s value to make sure it is in line with the agreed upon sales price. This will be required when financing is involved.

14. Loan Commitment

At this point your lender has decided that all conditions of making your loan are satisfied, time to move forward to closing.

15. Walkthrough

The pre-closing walkthrough is to confirm the property is in the correct condition for you to take possession. It is important to ensure items that are supposed to convey with the property are there and that items that were to be removed have been removed.

16. Transfer Utilities

Your agent can provide a list of the utility vendors for your specific location. Ask about our Elite Home Services!

17. Closing Paperwork will be signed transferring the property to you. If a loan is involved, loan documents will be signed as well.

18. Possession

Time to realize your real estate dreams and move in and enjoy your new home!

GIVING BACK TO THE HEROES OF OUR COMMUNITY

The LeadingRE Heroes Program is offered by participating brokerages of Leading Real Estate Companies Of The World®. We aim to give back to our military and other community heroes by offering a reward on a home sale or purchase to eligible consumers. The program allows you to earn a rebate or credit when you buy or sell a home, based on the actual sales price rather than a fixed amount within a range of values.

Receiving a reward is a great benefit, but choosing the right agent is even more important. Leading RE Heroes promises quality agents and quality service from top independent brokers who live and work in your local market. The network behind the program, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, comprises over 550 premier independent real estate

firms, whose members consistently dominate the market. You can be sure that our agents have the experience and reputation to deliver superior real estate services to the frontline heroes who are serving the community and beyond.

So, how does it work? To be eligible, you must register on the Leading RE Heroes website. You can also use the website to find an experienced real estate agent with area and military-based search options. There is no required mortgage lender, and you have the freedom to work with any lender you choose. There is no dollar limit on the reward, and the reward is paid upon settlement.

Heroes deserve to be rewarded. Let us help you when you are ready to buy or sell your home.

A PHILOSOPHY OF PHILANTHROPY

At Levin Rinke Realty, we believe that giving back to our community is not only important, but essential.

We understand that supporting local businesses and organizations is a key factor in shaping the identity of our city and surrounding areas.

That’s why we are proud to be actively involved in a diverse array of philanthropies, aimed at helping our neighbors and contributing to the development of our coastal society.

We are invested in creating meaningful connections that promote a flourishing atmosphere for our community.

Our commitment to integrity is reflected in our internal beliefs and external actions, and we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

Levin Rinke Realty proudly supports these organizations and many others.

Our Elite Home Services (powered by Live Easy®) offers top-notch support and assistance to our clients. Moving, often considered a daunting task, can be made significantly easier with our collaboration.

Our all-in-one home moving and management dashboard, complemented by the expertise of a dedicated concierge, ensures a seamless experience for homeowners. The best part? Elite services are provided free of charge for a lifetime, relieving homeowners of any financial burden.

Their mission is to simplify the overwhelming and stressful aspects of homeownership through the use of technology and personalized assistance. With a vision to empower and support every homeowner, Elite guarantees a sense of belonging throughout the moving experience. We take great pride in partnering with Elite, a company that shares our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and support to homeowners. Their comprehensive solutions and dedication will undoubtedly result in smoother, more manageable transitions for our clients, providing them with the reassurance of having a caring partner by their side.

Protect Your Investment

We understand the importance of protecting your investment and providing peace of mind to homeowners. That’s why we’ve partnered with American Home Shield®, the pioneering company that revolutionized the home warranty industry in 1971. With comprehensive plans designed to keep your home systems and appliances in excellent working order, American Home Shield® empowers you to take control of your home.

• Comprehensive coverage for home systems and appliances, regardless of age or condition.

• Gain peace of mind and budget protection with coverage for unexpected breakdowns.

• Access to a vast network of thousands of local, qualified contractors for timely and professional service.

• Additional protection for electronics and select maintenance services available.

• Industry-leading expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction.

• Partnership ensures access to the best resources for protecting your home and investment.

With American Home Shield® by your side, you can feel confident and in control of your home. Protect your most valuable asset with our attention to detail, commitment to customer satisfaction, and comprehensive coverage.

THAN 300K MORE THAN $2B MORE THAN 2M EST.

Experience Seamless Real Estate Transactions with Pure Title

Are you searching for a trusted title company that goes above and beyond for their clients? Look no further! We are excited to announce our partnership with Pure Title, the goto local title company that delivers seamless and efficient experiences.

Why choose Pure Title?

• Renowned Expertise

• Attention to Detail

• Unmatched Responsiveness

• Convenient Options

• Trust and Relationships

Partnering for Your Success

While we highly recommend Pure Title, utilizing their services is not mandatory. We strive to provide you with the best options available, and Pure Title aligns perfectly with our commitment to exceptional service and client satisfaction.

Experience the synergy of our services and the dedication of Pure Title. Trust us to make your real estate transactions seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to learn more about how Pure Title can elevate your real estate journey.

850.696.1331 puretitlecompany.com

Your Path to Homeownership Made Easy with Reliance Mortgage

At Reliance Mortgage, we understand that your homeownership journey is just beginning, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

We are thrilled to offer a wide range of mortgage options tailored to your unique needs and we are proud of the reputation we hold with our past clients for making the mortgage process easy and pain-free.

If you are searching for the opportunity to access funds for any financial goals, both big and small, short and long term, look no further than your trusted partners at Reliance.

The Benefits of Partnering with Reliance Mortgage

• Extensive Mortgage Selection

• Stability and Security

• Savings and Flexibility

• Exclusive Benefits for Service Members

• Unlocking Your Home’s Equity

• And many more!

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

There can be a lot of questions for first time buyers and even experienced investors. We are here to point you in the right direction and help you every step of the way. Common queries like “How do we begin?”, “When is the right time to buy?”, and “Where is a good area to start looking” can be dependent on your personal situation.

Get personalized assistance by starting a conversation with a REALTOR® from Levin Rinke Realty. Reach out if you have any questions about the following topics.

• Prequalification process

• Pre-approval process

• Appraisal

• Closing costs

• Credit score

• Appointment coordination

• Negotiation

• Writing offers

• Down payment

• Interest rates

• Local housing market

• Property valuation

• Home appreciation

• Home inspection

• Post-purchase responsibilities