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Juan C Ramos , GRI

Just sold near Coral Gables !!!

Beautiful home near Coral Gables

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A DEAL LIKE THIS? I CAN HELP!!

BEAUTIFUL REMODELED OLD SPANISH 5 BLOCKS FROM CORAL GABLES.ORIGINAL WOOD FLOORS,WITH BRAND NEW WOOD,KITCHEN AND STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES.MARBLE BATHROOM AND KITCHEN FLOORS.THIS HOUSE HAS BEEN RESTORED TO ITS ORIGINAL BEAUTY WITH A SUNROOM THAT IS RARELY SEEN IN MIAMI.IT HAS 13 FT CEILINGS THROUGHOUT THE LIVING AREA WITH A ANTIQUE FIREPLACE FOR LOTS OF CHARM. SOLD FOR $183,000.00.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN GETTING THE MOST FOR YOUR MONEY FOR YOUR REAL ESTATE PURCHASE, PLEASE CALL ME AT 305-801-7347

Buying a Foreclosure: some questions to ask

At the rise of foreclosures properties, everyone wants a piece of them. But in reality, most of these properties need some work and are not suitable for every buyer, as a cheap price can create a financial burden if repair/fixing costs between other costs, are not taken in consideration. Here are some questions to ask before dealing with foreclosures:

Im new into foreclosure, what is the first step to take? Get prequalified. This step is a must for any type of purchase. For buyers that are buying the foreclosure as an investment or second homes, be aware that the financing for this type of property could be more difficult and more expensive than buying your first home. For example, lending institutions can charge a higher interest rate or ask for more money as down payment. Also, most of the foreclosures do not qualify for regular financing due to property conditions. Cash buyers have the best bargaining position.

If I buy a Foreclosure and want to resell for a quick profit, is this feasible? This is more of a numbers game, I recommend buyers to do their homework before buying these type of properties. Keep in mind the folllowing expenses: Maintenance (landscaping,etc), carrying costs (mortgage payments), vacancies expense (time when the property is not rented), selling expense (cost of selling like commissions, taxes) and other related expenses. I advise that after these expenses, add a 10-15% as an extra cushion.

What other things should I consider when buying a foreclosure? Foreclosures can be a great investment, but making a good investment decision is not as easy as it looks. Be aware of first and second mortgages debt from the previous owner, Liens, past due taxes and previous home line of equity if any. This all could be responsibilities transferred to the next buyer.

When is a good time to buy a foreclosure? This is a question everybody asks. I think it depends on the market conditions locally (supply and demand of properties). This will vary from market to market. For example, in a market where the prices are falling constantly, take this factor into consideration before buying on this area. I belive in buying the ugly house in the good neighborhood as a rule of thumb.

If you are considering buying a foreclosure and need help, you may reach me at 305-801-7347

The Rental market in Miami

As the economy downturn begins to bite hard into family life and businesses, there is one area that is experiencing an upturn. The rental market in Miami is beginning to boom amongst the doom and gloom of the economy in general. The reasons for this are mainly twofold. People who would like to buy a house a now finding it difficult to secure a mortgage in today's financial climate and so are turning to renting a property as a solution. However, those who have the credit available, or are cash buyers may be waiting until the housing market settles before they buy, and these too are looking (or may be lookin) at renting a property until they can see how the housing market pans out. This increase demand for single family homes has caused rental prices to rise.

In my opinion , rent in our properties is up about 10-15% from the last 3-4 monts. There are more listings available than before and the rentals market is getting very busy.

If you need help with renting your home or investment , you may call me at

305-801-7347

Let me take care of your rental!

Chicken or Beef or Burrito

Talking about restaurants, here are my top 3 in Aventura.

1- Paquitos - Great food and service. Their fresh salsa goes well with their chips. Try not to eat too much so you save space for the main dish; Specially their tasty Fajitas. They also have a great variety of margaritas. The restaurant decor is very colorful and Mexican. Try to avoid Fridays if dont want big crowds.

2-Houston's Aventura- A more upscale restaurant but great food as well. There is usually a wait, but is worth waiting for. My favorite dish here is the coleslaw with pork chops. Yummy! Restaurant is waterfront so you can enjoy beautiful Bay views. Very elegant atmosphere.

3- Estancia Argentina Aventura -If you are in the mood for inexpensive and good Argentinean stylye meat, this is the place. There is no wait staff, so you order your food at the stand and you pick it up. A great Steak and Fries costs less than $10. Their very best empanadas are less than $2. The place is a combination of restaurant and a market , plus it has a great variety of wine. The staff is very friendly too.

I also have a special mention of two places I love in Miami lakes:

Thai Cafe Miami Lakes- This is the best place for lunch if you are in Miami Lakes main street. Most of dishes are less than $8. My favorite dish here is the Shrimp Pad Thai. Delicious!!

El aguacatal- Located close to Miami Gardens Drive, this family restaurant has a great variety of Colombian cuisine.

If you need an expert to help you buying or selling a property , that knows about Miami Lakes and Aventura, please call Juan at 305-801-7347