Frequently Asked Questions Cont .
Frequently Asked Questions Cont .
property sold for in a particular development and would not bring buyers to a builder if twotier pricing was in place . A typical builder makes more than 80 % of their sales from Realtor ® introductions , and they will not jeopardize such a significant source of business .
Do foreign nationals pay more in property taxes and homeowner ’ s insurance ? No . Property taxes are influenced by whether the home you buy is your primary residence or not . A second homeowner from New Jersey or Ohio pays the same taxes as one from Canada , the U . K . or any other part of the world . The cost of homeowners insurance is based upon the risk associated with the location , occupancy and condition of the subject property . It bears no relation to the nationality of its owner .
How can I protect myself against fluctuations in the currency exchange rate ? There are a number of ways you can accomplish this , and your sales associate will be happy to introduce you to a specialist in the foreign exchange market . They can offer you better exchange rates than most commercial banks , and a number of tools that will allow you to time your exchange to maximum benefit . They will also allow you to fix an exchange rate now and into the future to help pay running costs , condo fees , etc .
What are the pros and cons of new construction versus re-sale ? There are varying opinions on which purchase is better , as the value lies within the buyer ’ s objectives . Here are a few of the more common considerations :
y Amenities – Buyers have more opportunity to choose a color palette and select materials to their preference , such as ceramic tile instead of carpet and better-quality appliances . New homes tend to be more energy-efficient and more likely to meet code standards . An older home will reflect mature landscaping and is often located in an established community with historic charm . Many new subdivisions offer neighborhood clubhouses , swimming pools , playgrounds , bike and jogging trails and picnic venues for residents . Older homes don ’ t , although many have better access to urban shopping venues and restaurants because they reflect prior self-containing city-planning philosophies .
y Energy efficiency – Advantage : new construction . New-home designers can use new building materials such as Energy Star ® windows , thicker insulation and other technology that will lower future energy costs for the owner . Most states now have minimum energyefficiency requirements for new construction . Kitchens and laundry areas in new homes are designed to house more efficient energy-saving appliances .
14 Buying Real Estate in Florida