Charitable Giving | Jean Scott Homes

3 Ways to Buy a Home in Foreclosure

Many investors and even some families looking to buy a home in foreclosure. The information about properties being in foreclosure are public court records. Foreclosures on Zillow are properties that are in one of the foreclosure process stages and are shown as “Pre-Foreclosure”, “Foreclosure”, and “Foreclosure / Auction”, for example. These are the steps of the foreclosure process. Foreclosure and Pre-Foreclosure Pre-Foreclosure The lender has filed notice with the court that they plan to initiate the foreclosure process. The homeowners are typically three or more months behind on their payments. The homeowner can pay the arrears in full, and the home will no longer be in pre-foreclosure status. Foreclosure The legal process by which the lender takes possession or ownership of the property. At the end of the process, if the arrears in principle, interest, and late and legal fees is not paid, the judge orders a foreclosure sale. It is a public auction in which anyone, including the bank itself, can purchase the home. In some counties, the home is literally sold “off the courthouse steps”. In others, it’s held in a courtroom or other venue open to the public. Any proceeds from the sale are used to pay

May 20, 2020

Realtor showing buyers a lease to own home through Home Partners of America

Rent to Own with Home Partners of America

We’ve successfully assisted numerous families—both home buyers and sellers—through the Home Partners of America Rent-to-Own program, which features a Lease with Right to Purchase. This innovative program is ideal for those looking to secure a home without the immediate burden of purchasing outright. How to Get Started with Home Partners of America The first step in this exciting journey is to apply for the program. Home Partners provides an easy-to-navigate online application process, along with a comprehensive FAQ page to answer any questions you may have. This application is similar to a typical lease application, making it straightforward to understand the requirements and expectations. Once you submit your application and receive approval, you’re well on your way to finding a home that suits your family’s needs. Finding the Right Home for Your Family After you’re approved, our team will work closely with you to identify a home that meets both your budget and lifestyle preferences. A key aspect of the program is that the homes you can choose from must meet certain criteria, particularly regarding the quality of the local high school district. This focus on education ensures your family can settle into a community that provides a strong foundation

May 18, 2020

5687 Bear Stone Run, Oviedo, FL 32765 – Sold

5687 Bear Stone Run, Oviedo, FL 32765 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes 6 Bedrooms, 4-1/2 Bathrooms, located in Bear Stone / Aloma Woods Nestled within the secure confines of Oviedo’s Aloma Woods gated community, this stunning residence awaits a new family. Mature landscaping and a three-car garage enhance its curb appeal, while conservation areas on two sides provide a serene backdrop. Step through the double front doors into a spacious and open floor plan. To the left, you’ll find the formal dining room, adorned with an upgraded chandelier, a front-facing window, and laminate flooring. Straight ahead lies the formal living room, offering access to the patio and showcasing pool views and the surrounding conservation. On the right side of the entrance, discover a true office or den with French doors, a large window, and more laminate flooring. The heart of the home resides in the combination kitchen and family room, perfect for entertaining and hosting large gatherings. The kitchen features granite countertops, 42-inch cabinetry, an island, stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar, an oversized pantry, and a cozy dinette area. The family room at 5687 Bear Stone Run, Oviedo, FL 32765 (sold), generously sized, grants sliding door access to the inviting pool area at the back of the home. The floorplan follows a triple-split layout: the master suite occupies the right side, while the other first-floor

May 15, 2020

3 Answers on Home Buying vs Renting

When deciding between buying a home and renting, potential homebuyers often find themselves grappling with critical questions. Understanding the nuances of each option can significantly impact your financial future and lifestyle choices. Here, we explore three prevalent questions that arise in the context of home buying versus renting. Question #1: Understanding Price Breakdowns in Home Buying One of the most pressing questions for prospective homebuyers is about the financial implications of purchasing a house. Many buyers want clarity on the price breakdowns associated with home buying to ensure they’re getting the best value for their money. Fees Involved in Purchasing a Home When you purchase a home, various fees come into play. These include: Inspection Costs: Typically averaging around $450, inspection costs can vary based on the home’s size and the lender’s requirements. Closing Costs: This encompasses lender fees, appraisal and survey costs, taxes, and insurance. Closing costs can add up, often ranging from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price. Down Payment: Depending on your loan type, the down payment can range from 3% to 20% of the purchase price. Getting the Most for Your Money To determine whether a home is priced appropriately, working with a Realtor®

May 1, 2020

A Couple Reviews Their Credit Score to Prepare to Buy a New Home

5 Key Ways a Homebuyer’s Credit Score Affects Affordability

When it comes to purchasing a home, your mortgage credit score plays a crucial role in determining your affordability. Understanding how your credit score impacts your mortgage options can help you make informed decisions and potentially save you thousands of dollars. 5 Ways a Credit Score Affects Home Purchase Affordability 1. Determining Eligibility for Loan Programs The required credit score for mortgage loans varies between lenders and loan programs. On average, conventional loans require a minimum credit score of 620, while FHA and VA loans typically require a score of at least 580. However, during periods of economic uncertainty, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, lenders may become more cautious. This caution can lead to stricter requirements, with some lenders hesitant to approve loans for borrowers with credit scores below 640. As a result, if your credit score is on the lower end, you may find it challenging to secure a mortgage or face higher costs due to additional points and fees. 2. Impact of Combined Credit Scores If you are purchasing a home with a significant other, lenders will consider the lowest median credit score among all applicants. This means that even if one partner has an excellent credit score, the lower

April 29, 2020

Realtor explaining the homebuying process to first-time home buyers.

Homebuying Process: A Guide for First-Time Buyers

Hi, I’m Rachel Gregory, a REALTOR with Jean Scott Homes at Keller Williams Advantage Realty. In this guide, I’ll address common questions from first-time home buyers regarding Homeowners Associations (HOAs), mortgages, and the overall homebuying process. Should I Live in a Community with an HOA or Not? Choosing between a home in an HOA or one without is largely a matter of personal preference. Here are some factors to consider: Maintenance and Aesthetics: If you prefer a neighborhood where homes are consistently well-maintained and landscaped, an HOA can help enforce community standards. This can enhance your property’s value over time. Community Amenities: Many HOAs offer amenities such as pools, parks, and clubhouses, which can enhance your living experience and provide opportunities for socializing with neighbors. Freedom and Flexibility: On the flip side, if you value having complete control over your property—such as the freedom to paint your house any color or modify your landscaping—an HOA might feel restrictive. Always review the HOA rules and regulations to ensure they align with your lifestyle. Typical Down Payment Requirements for Mortgages One of the most common questions I receive is about down payments. Understanding your options can help you save effectively for your

April 27, 2020

700 Grey Heron Pl, Chuluota, FL 32766 – Sold

700 Grey Heron Pl, Chuluota, FL 32766 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes 5 Bedrooms, 3-1/2 Bathrooms, located in Osprey Lakes This beautiful home with 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms is located in the highly after Osprey Lakes community in Chuluota! Surrounded by conservation on a spacious corner lot, this home provides plenty of privacy. Entering the home, you’ll see the neutral paint to match the neutral flooring, crown molding, and window treatments. The formal dining room is on your left immediately upon walking into the home and it boasts an updated lighting fixture and front-facing window. To the left is a secondary bedroom with built-in shelving that could work wonderfully as an office or den. The combination kitchen and family room is perfect for private family time or hosting events! There’s plenty of space and cabinetry, miles of countertop, and a breakfast bar that overlooks the family room. You’ll find beautiful Brazilian cherry-wood flooring in the master suite at 700 Grey Heron Pl, Chuluota, FL 32766 (sold), located on the right side of the first floor. The master also has access to the patio via a sliding door, as well as plenty of closet space. Looking out back, there’s

April 2, 2020

Remodeling for the Highest Return on Investment

Hi, my name is Jean Scott, and I am a REALTOR® here at Keller Williams Advantage Realty in Oviedo, FL. One of my specialties is actually staging, so I wanted to bring you Remodeling Costs Vs. Value Report as brought to us by Remodeling Magazine. Smaller projects and exterior upgrades actually return the most value for your money spent, instead of doing really large overhauls; it’s very hard to get the money back out of some of those projects. Replacing your home’s siding, like if you had aluminum siding that you upgraded to concrete board or improved that and put new siding on, can recoup 84.3% of that project. Stone veneer on the exterior of the home can recoup 92.2% of that home improvement project. For a new garage door, the return on that investment is typically 88.5%. If you are replacing the garage door it has been damaged in a wind issue or, perhaps, you have met it in an unpleasant car meeting, making it really an important upgrade. By putting a wood deck on your home you can see a return of 80.5%. A bathroom remodel returns about 70% on that particular investment. So, again, we are seeing

April 2, 2020

Installing Modern Lighting Brightens Your Home and Saves Money

Creative Ways to Make Your Home Brighter

There are a number of creative ways for homeowners selling their home to make it brighter, which makes it more appealing to home buyers. Common advice for home sellers is to turn all the lights on for showings and open houses. That is great advice. Home buyers find bright homes more appealing. But what if that’s not enough? If your house is cursed with dark spaces, here are five ways to use mirrors to bring in more natural light without breaking holes in the walls or roof. Got a dark hallway? Use mirrors opposite one another to reflect what little light there is back into one another and increase the sense of brigh to schedule space. If you have a single window abutting a corner, add a mirror to the adjacent (windowless) corner, creating the effect that you have one large corner window. Use a floor-to-ceiling mirror in an area behind furniture, such as sofa table, or chest. Add a lamp in front of the mirror to reflect more light at night, too. Use a mirrored backsplash in the kitchen. Use a strategically placed mirror outside to reflect sunlight directly into a window at the angle you want. Alternatively, use

March 30, 2020

944 River Wind Ave, Orlando, FL 32825 – Sold

This home is nestled in Orlando’s Winding Creek and boasts three bedrooms and two bathrooms. When you examine the exterior, you’ll appreciate the mature landscaping and the recently updated roof, completed in March 2020. As you step inside, neutral paint, abundant natural lighting, and elegant laminate flooring greet you. Moving forward, you’ll discover the living and dining room spaces. The upgraded kitchen features beautiful granite countertops, cabinets, and updated appliances. Moving to the left side of the home, you’ll find the master suite, while the secondary bedrooms are located on the right side due to this home’s split floor-plan design. As you step into the back area, there’s a Florida room with windows that can slide open, creating a private patio space with easy access to a fully fenced backyard.

March 27, 2020

2832 Hazel Grove Ln, Oviedo, FL 32766 – Sold

This stunning home is located in Oviedo’s Live Oak Reserve, featuring four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a backyard that borders a serene conservation area. Upon entering the front door, you’ll be greeted with a vaulted ceiling bathed in natural light and neutral paints. From there, you’ll notice the formal living and dining rooms, which offer ample amounts of space and beautiful front-facing windows.” The combination family room and kitchen occupies a central position in the home, providing a perfect space for events and family gatherings. The kitchen features updated cabinetry, a stone backsplash, and ample granite countertop space. Furthermore, this stunning residence, nestled within Oviedo’s Live Oak Reserve, boasts four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a backyard that borders a serene conservation area. Additionally, the back patio is screened-in, offering plenty of space and privacy for you to sit back and relax.

March 26, 2020

851 Lookout Pt, Chuluota, FL 32766 – Sold

851 Lookout Pt, Chuluota, FL 32766 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes 4 Bedrooms, and 3 Bathrooms, nestled within Chuluota’s gated community of Osprey Lakes. Located in the beautiful community of Osprey Lakes, this home has 4 bedrooms, and 3 bathrooms, and is move-in ready! The exterior of the home showcases mature landscaping, a 3-car garage, as well as side entry. On entering the home, you’ll notice the combination of living and dining rooms with neutral paint and updated fixtures. This space is optimal for hosting or for family gatherings. The kitchen has 42″ cabinetry, Corian countertop space, and stainless appliances. tile backsplash, breakfast bar, and dinette. The laminate flooring from the living and dining rooms extends into the family room. On the right side of the home, you’ll find an oversized master with access to a sitting area in the back, which could become a secondary room for an office. The left side of the home will have the secondary bedroom and bathroom. The left side of this home at 851 Lookout Pt, Chuluota, FL 32766 (sold) features a convenient pocket door, which is an excellent feature for multi-generational families. It allows for privacy and separation when needed. Additionally, the back patio provides exclusive

March 26, 2020

3634 Periwinkle Dr, Winter Park, FL 32792 – Sold

This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home at 3634 Periwinkle Dr, Unit #4, Winter Park, FL 32792 features an entirely re-plumbed system. Upon entering, you’ll notice neutral paint and flooring, with the kitchen to the right. The kitchen boasts light cabinetry, a tile backsplash, stainless appliances, and a breakfast bar. The open space leads to the family room, perfect for hosting events. Secondary rooms and a laundry room are adjacent to the kitchen. The fully fenced backyard includes a screened-in patio, providing a peaceful space to relax after a long day

March 12, 2020

36201 Michigan Dr, Eustis, FL 32736 – Sold

36201 Michigan Dr, Eustis, FL 32736 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes 4 bedroom, 2-1/2 bathroom, located in the Michigan Acres community Your search ends here with this quintessential southern abode, peacefully located on a secluded lane in Eustis. The home’s enchanting appeal is unmistakable at first glance, featuring a sprawling porch, stonework detailing, well-established greenery, and eye-catching decorative elements. Upon entry, you’re met with impressive vaulted ceilings crisscrossed by wooden beams, an abundance of natural light pouring in from the myriad windows, and a harmonious, neutral color scheme. The expansive great room serves as the core of the home, seamlessly integrating a snug living space, a central dining zone, and a chic kitchen—ideal for hosting familial festivities. The kitchen here at 36201 Michigan Dr, Eustis, FL 32736 is equipped with bi-color cabinets, ample counter space, modern stainless appliances, a stylish tile backsplash, a walk-in pantry, and an adjoining dinette area. A corridor from the great room leads to the private master suite, two additional bedrooms, and a well-appointed full bathroom. The master bedroom is a spacious retreat featuring a wooden accent wall, contemporary lighting, an organized walk-in closet, and an attached bathroom with a sizable vanity, a luxurious garden

March 12, 2020

1319 Twin Rivers Blvd, Oviedo, FL 32766 – Sold

1319 Twin Rivers Blvd, Oviedo, FL 32766 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes This home is move-in ready in Oviedo’s highly sought-after Riverside community! As you walk through the front door you’ll be greeted by plenty of natural lighting, soaring ceilings, neutral paint, and a lovely wood-like tile. The front-facing window of the home sits in the combination dining and living room. Once inside this home at 1319 Twin Rivers Blvd, Oviedo, FL 32766, just sold, you’ll see the combination kitchen and family room, making this an optimal space for family gatherings and entertaining. The space also has access to the back patio. There are beautiful quartz countertops in the kitchen with tile backsplash, fixtures, and a breakfast bar. This split-floor plan home has the master suite on the right side of the home and offers views to the backyard. The backyard is large and fenced-in, making it an excellent place to relax after a long week.

March 10, 2020

894 Humphrey Blvd, Deltona, FL 32738 – Sold

Our new listing at 894 Humphrey Blvd, Deltona, FL 32738 has 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, no HOA, and is ready for a new owner! This home sits on a corner lot with a well-sized carport and driveway. The home has plenty of natural lighting and showcases neutral paint throughout the home. On entering the home, you’ll find a great room with a dining area, a large family room with a fireplace, and a kitchen with vaulted ceilings throughout the main living area. The back has a beautiful Florida room that has access to the patio and pool. With a split floorplan, the master suite sits on the right side of the home and the secondary bedrooms can be found on the left side. The kitchen overlooks the beautiful yard and large pool, making it a perfect entertaining space.

March 6, 2020

2972 Starwood Dr, Oviedo, FL 32765 – Sold

2972 Starwood Dr, Oviedo, FL 32765 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes 4 Bedrooms, 3-1/2 Bathrooms, 3,013 SF Hi there, I’m Rachel Pope with Jean Scott Homes Advantage Realty. I’m here in Oviedo at our newest listing that’s just over an acre. The home boasts 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, the potential for a 4th bedroom, a large bonus room with flex space, and a beautiful backyard that you’re going to want to spend a lot of time in. Welcome to 2972 Starwood Dr, Oviedo, FL 32765 (sold). When you first walk through the front door you’re greeted with tones of natural lighting, fresh neutral paint trim, and beautiful hardwood flooring that going to run throughout the home. The first room you’re going to walk into once in this home is the formal dining room, which is going to offer great views of the front porch and the yard and it’s going to give you two access ways to the main living areas of the home; one to the kitchen and one to the family room. This combination kitchen and family room truly is the heart of the home. You’ll have the family room over to the left with a

March 5, 2020

13738 Bluewater Cir, Orlando, FL 32828 – Sold

13738 Bluewater Cir, Orlando, FL 32828 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes Hi there, I’m Rachel Pope with Jean Scott Homes at Keller Williams Advantage Realty. I’m here at Orlando’s Waterford Lakes at our brand-new listing. This big home behind me boasts 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 of those bedrooms being on the first floor so it’s great for guests that are visiting or parents. Out back you’ll have a large patio that’s going to overlook a peaceful pond. Welcome to 13738 Bluewater Cir, Orlando, FL 32828. When you walk through the front door you’ll be greeted with a great neutral palette and tons of natural lighting. Directly to the right of the front door is going to be your formal dining room with an updated light fixture, front-facing window, crown moulding and beautiful hardwood flooring. Walk down the foyer into your combination of family room and kitchen. This family room is spacious; it’ll have an upgraded crown moulding and then it’s going to offer patio access and pond views. Adjacent to that is the kitchen, it is the heart of the home. It’s great for entertaining; you have a dinette at the front and then over here you have

March 2, 2020

Finding a Rental Home in Central Florida

We understand that families sometimes have a difficult time finding a rental home in Central Florida. They face a number of challenges. Most Realtors don’t work in the rental home segment of the real estate market. The reason for that is that neither landlords nor tenants are willing to compensate Realtors for their time and expertise. Unfortunately, that leaves families looking for a rental home in Central Florida pretty much on their own. Our Realtors and brokerage do not work with rental homes nor in property management. We regret that we can not assist people looking for homes to rent. We hope this resource is helpful. When you are ready to purchase a home or know someone looking to buy or sell, we would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business! Rent to Own We’re often asked about rent-to-own. That’s always a bad deal financially for would be homebuyers with one exception. Home Partners of American has a lease with right to purchase program that is a good deal some homebuyers. Best Place to Check for Rental Homes Realtor.com is updated regularly with data directly from the MLS. There, you can find the direct contact information for the REALTOR® and/or

February 29, 2020

1109 Trotwood Blvd, Winter Springs, FL 32708 – Sold

1109 Trotwood Blvd, Winter Springs, FL 32708 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes This home is located in the beautiful community of Oak Forest in Winter Springs with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. On entering the home you’ll be greeted by a wonderful amount of natural lighting and a combination living and dining room. The kitchen has been updated with stunning quartz counter tops, tile backsplash, shaker cabinetry, and updated appliances. With the home’s split floorplan, the master is on the left side of the home while the other three bedrooms are located on the right side. The back patio is perfect for a quiet and peaceful space for you and your family.

February 28, 2020

How to Build on Wetlands in Florida

How to build on wetlands in Florida is the first consideration buyers should consider when looking to purchase vacant land to build their new home. Wetlands are environmentally protected land that cannot be built upon or even disturbed without a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FL DEP). County and/or municipal (where applicable) governments could also require a permit to do anything with environmentally protected land. There isn’t much vacant land left in Central Florida zoned for single family residences or agriculture that doesn’t have some wetlands on it. Many parcels are 100% wetlands. Below is some information to help determine if a property may have wetlands and each county’s zoning department website or staff can then let you know the requirements to build on any specific parcel of land. Please note that the county website resources are informational and may not be 100% reliable. It’s a good, cursory first check. When you’re ready to make an offer on a property, please contact us at 407-564-2758. We would be glad to do that for you and negotiate terms on your behalf. Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FL DEP) The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is an excellent resource.

February 10, 2020

5725 Oak Lake Trl, Oviedo, FL 32765 – Sold

5725 Oak Lake Trl, Oviedo, FL 32765 | Sold by Jean Scott Homes 4 Bedrooms, 3-1/2 Bathrooms, and located in Estates At Aloma Woods Nestled within the secure confines of the Estates at Aloma Woods, this exquisite home eagerly awaits a new family. Step through the double front doors into a spacious, open floorplan that immediately captivates your attention. The moment you cross the threshold, your gaze is drawn to the breathtaking views of the inviting pool, the relaxing spa, and the well-appointed outdoor kitchen, all visible through the sliding doors in the living room. To the left of the front entrance lies the formal dining room, adorned with an elegant chandelier and a front-facing window. An arched entryway leads to a harmonious combination of kitchen and family room—a space perfectly designed for entertaining. The kitchen is a culinary haven, featuring 42-inch cabinetry, sleek stainless steel appliances, a built-in range, an oven, and a microwave. With ample countertop space, an island, a breakfast bar, and a convenient gas range, this kitchen is a chef’s delight. Here at 5725 Oak Lake Trl, Oviedo, FL 32765, and adjacent to the formal living room, you’ll find the expansive master suite and a versatile office that could easily serve as

January 30, 2020

635 E. Plant Street, Winter Garden, FL 34787 – Sold

Nestled in the desirable Heritage at Park Street, this beautiful, energy-efficient townhome awaits a new family. The community, with its great pool and convenient location on the W Orange Trail, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Built in 2018, the home feels brand new. Inside, you’ll find abundant natural light, neutral paint, and wood-look tile flooring. A versatile den at the front can serve as a formal dining space, a second living area, or an office. The kitchen features 42” cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless appliances, and a large pantry. Upstairs, the master suite overlooks the trail, while two secondary bedrooms share a bathroom. Out back, a covered patio and breezeway connect to a two-car garage.

January 30, 2020

The Purpose of Title Insurance

Understanding Title Insurance in Florida Real Estate Transactions When it comes to transferring real estate from a seller to a buyer, one crucial aspect that often comes into play is title insurance. This policy is essential to ensure that the buyer receives a clear and marketable title to the property. In Florida, the process of obtaining title insurance has some unique customs and practices that buyers and sellers should be aware of. What is Title Insurance? Title insurance is a policy that protects the buyer and the lender from any potential disputes or claims against the property’s title. These disputes can arise from various issues such as unpaid taxes, liens, or other encumbrances that were not discovered during the initial title search. The insurance ensures that the buyer is protected from financial loss if any such issues arise after the purchase. Who Pays for Title Insurance in Florida? In most Florida counties, it is customary for the seller to pay for the buyer’s title insurance. This practice is often referred to as the “warranty” in the warranty deed. The warranty deed is a legal document that guarantees the seller holds clear title to the property and has the right to

January 28, 2020

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