Elvi Wagner

Get pre-approved (not just pre-qualified) before you start looking. It tells you your real budget and makes your offer credible to sellers. Also budget beyond the down payment — closing costs typically run 2–5% of the purchase price, and you'll want a reserve for inspections, moving, and immediate repairs. Don't skip the inspection Even in a competitive market, a home inspection is one of the cheapest forms of insurance you can buy. It won't catch everything, but it protects you from major surprises — roof age, HVAC condition, plumbing, foundation issues. In Florida specifically: get a separate wind mitigation and 4-point inspection too, since these affect your insurance costs significantly. Understand the full cost of ownership, not just the mortgage In Florida, factor in property insurance (which has risen sharply and varies a lot by flood zone and roof age), flood insurance if applicable, HOA fees, and property taxes. A home that looks affordable on the mortgage alone can be a different story once insurance is added. Don't fall in love with one house Bidding wars and emotional attachment lead to overpaying or waiving protections you shouldn't waive (like the inspection contingency). Know your walk-away number before you make an offer. Drive by at different times of day, check flood zone maps, look at planned development nearby, and check school ratings even if you don't have kids — it affects resale value. Move fast, but don't skip steps In a hot market, homes can go under contract in days. Have your pre-approval, documents, and decision-making ready to go — but "fast" should mean efficient, not reckless.

Price it right from day one Overpricing is the single most common seller mistake. A home that sits on the market because it's overpriced often ends up selling for less than if it had been priced accurately from the start — buyers get suspicious of stale listings and offers dry up. Fix the obvious stuff before listing You don't need a full renovation, but address anything that jumps out during a walkthrough — leaky faucets, chipped paint, broken fixtures. These small flaws make buyers wonder what bigger issues might be hiding. Invest in presentation Professional photography and staging (even just decluttering and depersonalizing) consistently pay for themselves. Most buyers start their search online — if the photos don't sell it, no one shows up in person. Be ready before you list, not after Have your disclosures, HOA documents, permits for any renovations, and repair records organized ahead of time. Buyers and their agents will ask, and slow responses create doubt or lost momentum. Know what you're required to disclose In Florida, sellers must disclose known material defects that aren't easily observable — things like a history of water intrusion, roof leaks, or sinkhole activity. Being upfront upfront avoids legal exposure and renegotiation surprises later in the deal. Don't take negotiations personally Buyers will ask for repairs or credits after inspection — that's normal, not an insult to your home. Decide your priorities (price vs. speed vs. terms) ahead of time so you're not reacting emotionally in the moment. Timing matters, but less than people think Spring and early summer are traditionally the strongest markets, but a well-priced, well-presented home can sell in any season. Don't wait for the "perfect" month if you're ready now.

Most of my clients have been Families with little Children and also Emptynester which are looking to downsize their homes, Singles and Investors.

Everything went great! It starts all with an complete different Open House Showing, after our very kind and relaxed conversation prospects decided to work with me and let me help them find their new home in Paradise! I was so happy that I found not only a very beautiful Single family home, it was their home they dreamed of. We had a very smooth closing, no stress, no drama, everything went well and a few weeks later, 1 couple more in our awesome paradise, Florida.

With nearly 20 years of experience in real estate, I've invested in countless specialized trainings throughout my career. But what truly benefits my clients most isn't a certificate on a wall — it's my daily, hands-on practice working directly with buyers and sellers, paired with the ongoing, high-level training I continue to receive through our brokerage. Experience and continuous education, working together every single day.