Audra McCollum's Q&A

This is a very interesting topic.  I have read this in the Miami Herald, but it was in a letter to the Editor.  I'm wondering if this is true or just rumor.  It certainly seems it will affect Zillow and similar sites and possibly real appraisals.  Would love to hear from appraisers on this topic.

That's correct - Zillow is not a replacement for the MLS.  In Miami the best way to search for properties is to use a Realtor.  We can set up an automated search for you through the MLS so that you can have properties emailed to you which meet your criteria as soon as they come onto the market.  You can also check Realtor.com which feeds through the MLS, but it does also have a lag time - especially if you are trying to buy an REO (bank owned or foreclosure property) as they are selling very quickly.Feel free to contact me if you're not currently working with another Realtor.Best regards,Audra 

Hi Inuk,According to the MLS, the maint. fees are $302/mo., but you should confirm them before writing an offer with the management co. or association, as many buildings are changing their maint. fees to absorb fees due from delinquent owners.Best of luck to you,Audra McCollumDirector - Luxury DivisionInterinvestments Realty, Inc.

Dear Auf,I am not an attorney.  However, I know it is very possible you could lose your homestead exemption should you rent out the unit.  You should contact a real estate attorney with all your questions.  It will benefit you in the long run and Realtors are not able to give legal advice.  Many will give a free consultation.Best of luck to you,Audra McCollumDirector - Luxury DivisionInterinvestments Realty, Inc.

Hi Wende,I sent you an email.  Hope that helps.Audra

Hi Mark,This property is listed as a short sale - it has not yet been foreclosed on by the bank, but they have filed a Lis Pendens, so the owner has most likely stopped paying their mortgage and it's in the foreclosure process.If it needs major repairs, chances are the owners can't afford to make them.  Feel free to contact me if you're looking for an agent to work with in the area.  I'll be happy to recommend one to assist you.Best regards,Audra McCollumDirector - Luxury DivisionInterinvestments Realty, Inc. 

Hi My,According to the MLS, this property is currently under contract and they are accepting back up contracts.  Feel free to contact me if you'd like to see the house.  I will be glad to recommend an area Realtor to assist you.  By the way, the house is listed as a Short Sale, so it may take a lot longer to purchase than a regular sale.Best regards,Audra McCollumDirector - Luxury DivisionInterinvestments Realty, Inc.

Hi Jahra,The $2,200 is the monthly RENTAL price as per the MLS.  This house is not currently listed for sale on the MLS.  Sometimes these rental houses slip through and look like sales on Zillow, although they should not be posted here...Best regards,Audra McCollumDirector - Luxury DivisionInterinvestments Realty, Inc.

Hi Gabby,The $2200 is the monthly RENTAL price.  This house is not currently listed for sale in the MLS.If you find this info helpful - please mark as such by giving a thumbs up!Best regards,Audra McCollumDirector - Luxury DivisionInterinvestments Realty, Inc.

Hi Norwoody,According to the MLS, this property was on the market just seven days.  It closed 7/13/09 at a price of $480,000.  It was originally listed on 5/8/09 at $465,300.If you find this info helpful, please indicate it as so with a thumbs up. :) Best regards,Audra McCollumDirector - Luxury DivisionInterinvestments Realty, Inc.