Christa LaFarlette (la-far-let)

Yes! Find your MOJO (as in BBQ) in Jacksonville Florida!

Tonight my family and I had a great moment of showing homes to one of our all time favorite buyers. I found 5 great homes that are right for her, and we viewed three of them. There is one in particular that I know is for her--the remaining question is does she know it's for her....but I digress.

MOJO Bar-b-Que. Located in a suburb of Jacksonville FL this amazing place has the best BBQ that I have found to date. One of three local spots, and the original, it can be found tucked away on a corner by the local dry-cleaner (which, by the way, seems to keep the same hours:)).

I have written offers in this place. Surrounded by the lyrics of Southern Blues. Surrounded by Southern folk art. And most of all learning that MOJO is that place of being. That Mojo, defined here as the good luck feeling. A perfect place to hang out, enjoy family and friends, drink in a community, and find what you have been missing.

What you get here is perfect bbq. Pork, beef, chicken, whatever you would enjoy. For young Nick it was cow--and yes, that is how he orders. For Izz it was pulled pork sandwich--on Texas toast. For Ben it was a plain cheeseburger, and for me? BBQ Nachos! My husband ordered beef brisket--and I am sure the best part was the macaroni and cheese (which is the best ever).

Bottom line? Mojo. Finding your place in Jacksonville Florida and enjoying all that it has to offer. From the art, to the music, and finally the amazing Southern cooking! Hard to duplicate at home--although once you know your neighbors they will, no doubt, teach you all you ever needed to know!

To search for homes around this area go to the search page and click on Southside/San Marco. Then search away! Only your imagination will hold you back---and that my friend is the magic of Mojo's!

Jacksonville Florida offers many opportunities for recreation now that Spring has sprung! Here are my top 3 favorites and why you may enjoy them as well!

• "Walk a Mile in Their Shoes". Ever wonder what happens to the homeless after they are not homeless any longer? This run/walk offers the average athlete an opportunity to assist and glimpse at the process. Raising money for our local Sulzbacher Center. If a run through downtown Jacksonville, or a worthy charity is your thing, then this is for you!

And keep in mind that downtown Jacksonville is home to amazing loft living, and a short drive, bike, or walk to historic areas.

• Go GREEN! MOSH (Museum of Science and History) has a history of transforming the plain recycled everyday 'stuff' into beautiful crafts! When you bring items for donation (think milk jugs, paper towel rolls, etc) MOSH offers discounted admission. MOSH changes themes many times during the year and if museums that are individual or family friendly is your 'thing' this will not disappoint!

MOSH is located downtown. Please remember to map it, or ask for really good directions! My first 2 times I got lost--but it was very worth it!

• Jacksonville Suns. Who knew that Jacksonville Florida had a minor baseball team! And yet, now that Spring is here they will start. In April. First game will be March 30th at 7pm. Come and enjoy the home team!

Jacksonville is not only homes to the Suns, but also the Jacksonville Jaguars! Season tickets are available now if you are a football fan, and will be moving within the next few weeks. If you are planning to relocate please email or call for ticket information! We love our Jags---!

Otherwise, Jacksonville Florida has the greatest land mass (for cities) in the United States. It also boasts great beaches, downtown life, and fabulous real estate opportunities! When you are ready to search for your first or next home please email (or call)!

I know--what is agency, and why do you need to know. Here in Florida, and in my area--Jacksonville Florida agency reflects what you can expect from your agent. There are three types, and you should know the difference as they will effect (possibly) your purchase.

• In the State of Florida it is presumed that all agents are operating as transaction brokers. You, as a buyer, can safely assume this unless the agent gives you the option of single agent or no brokerage. To take either of those options there is a form, and it must be in writing.

1. Transaction Broker Relationship. This is a type of limited representation to buyer, seller, or both. Neither party is in a fiduciary relationship (your agent cannot make a decision for you). The following is the responsibilities:
   • Dealing honestly and fairly-- the agent must be both honest and fair to both buyer and seller.
   • Accounting for all funds -- keep track of all monies received, billed, etc.
   • Using skill, care, and diligence within the transaction-- your agent needs to make sure they are acting appropriately and as required by Florida law.
   • Disclosing all known facts that materially affect the value of the property and are not readily observable to the buyer--if we see what can be a roof issue that you may not notice, we need to mention it. Bottom line.
   • Presenting all offers/counter offers in a timely manner, unless a party has previously directed the agent otherwise, in writing--timely manner is generally 24-48 hours, depending on your agent. Ask them to get a better idea.
   • Limited confidentiality. This limited confidentiality means that I will not tell you what the seller MAY take if I represent you both, but rather will encourage you to offer what you feel is the best offer possible. Same the reverse, your agent should not tell the seller that you can afford more/less but rather discuss the offer and how it benefits them. In the middle--limited confidentiality.
   • Any additional duties that are mutually agreed upon.
2. Single Agent Relationship. This is a fiduciary relationship defined as below:
   • Dealing honestly and fairly. (see above)
   • Loyalty. This person is for your interests only. As such you can expect them to work for you directly.
   • Confidentiality. This agent is your agent and does not represent the other side at all. You have a high confidentiality rating.
   • Obedience. The single agent will be doing exactly what you direct them to do. Obedience is exactly that--carrying out your wishes.
   • Full disclosure. You will know everything, and this agent has a responsibility to make sure that they disclose all facts in full.
   • Accounting for all funds. This is a fiduciary relationship.
   • Skill, care, and diligence. (see above)
   • Presenting all offers, counteroffers in a timely manner unless directed in writing to do otherwise.
   • Disclosing all known facts materially affecting the value of the property and that is not readily observable.
3. NO brokerage relationship.
   • This is an agent that has no relationship to you but will act as your agent for the transaction.
   • Dealing honestly and fairly
   • Accounting for all funds entrusted to the agent
   • Disclosing all known facts materially affecting the value of the property and that is not readily observable.

As a transaction broker I have the responsibility to make sure both sides have limited confidentiality. In Florida the brokerage relationship needs to be disclosed before entering into any type of transaction. If the type of agency is not brought up then it can be assumed that the form by that agent is transaction!

It is my greatest hope that as you begin your search for a new, or next home that this information will provide greater insight and education. And, if confusing please call or email. I am happy to chat about real estate all day, and would welcome the opportunity!

Good night, and God bless----

Let me be your guide--as you search for a new home in the greater Jacksonville Florida area(s)---

• As a knowledgeable Realtor I can save you endless amounts of time and frustration
• As a knowledgeable Realtor I know the housing market inside and out and can help you avoid the 'wild goose chase'.
• As a knowledgeable Realtor I can help you with any home, even if it is listed elsewhere or if it is being sold directly by the owner.
• As a knowledgeable Realtor I know the best lenders in the area and can help you understand the importance of being pre-approved for a mortgage. I can also discuss down payments, closing costs, and monthly payment options that may suit you.
• As a knowledgeable Realtor, I am an excellent source for both general and specific information about the community such as schools, churches, shopping, and transportation--plus tips on home inspections and pricing.
• As a knowledgeable Realtor I am experienced at presenting your offer to the seller(s) and can assist you through the process of negotiating the best price. I will bring objectivity to the buying transaction, and will point out the advantages and disadvantages of a particular property.

As a licensed real estate professional I provide much more than the service of helping you find your ideal home. Realtors are the expert negotiators with other agents, seasoned advisers with customers, and superb navigators around the local neighborhood. They are members of the National Association of Realtors and must abide by a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice enforced by NAR. A professional Realtor is your best resource when buying a home.

And the best thing about me as your Realtor is that all this help normally will not cost you a cent. Generally, the seller pays the commission to the Realtor!

I know! A whole blog about me. Me, your hopeful first or next Realtor in Jacksonville FL. So, here goes and please keep in mind that I am not very good at the put myself out there stuff:)

I am Christa LaFarlette (la-far-let)

My mission: I am a passionate and talented consultant dedicated to providing real estate and marketing services to my customers.

My vision: To provide exceptional service and exceed the expectations of every customer.

Business experience:

• Over 15 years corporate business world experience.
• Your Choice Real Estate
• All Real Estate Options, with a stop for a year at Keller Williams
• Military wife (retired), mother of 4 (the eldest is heading for the Army soon), real estate consultant, home-maker, pet owner (2 dogs and 1 cat)

Primary Specialties:

• Marketing techniques for sellers
• Assisting sellers throughout their transaction
• Assisting buyers with finding their perfect property
• Using full technology for both buyers and sellers

Secondary Specialties:

• Assisting people needing to relocate
• Helping people creatively acquire the American Dream

My Amazing Family:

• Greg. Husband, 20 year veteran, aircraft maintainer.
• Mitch. Eldest, 19 years old and heading to the Army Reserves.
• Ben. Isabelle. Nick. 17, 10, and 5. Wonderful and budding Realtors!
• Max and Chloe. Our Goldendoodles--yes, we have large and funny dogs!
• Milee. Our cat, who may be found in the clean laundry basket, which makes that basket an oxymoron (perhaps).

Hobbies and outside interests:

• Yoga--care of the mind and body
• Treadmill--it's hot here, enough said!
• Swimming--I love to swim, but not get my face wet.
• Technology--I enjoy getting to know cutting edge technology and finding out how it will benefit me and my life.
• Reading--is there anything better than well worn pages of a fabulous book? I am an avid reader.
• Learning--I enjoy knowing why. Why does the moon shine at night, but not the day. Why is Google more popular than Yahoo. I want to know the whys.

This is who I am. This is what I like. And this is what I offer. I believe that real estate is complex. I believe real estate is about people. I believe that when we work as a team, we are invincible!

Good night, and God bless!