Questions we get asked every week
Answered the way we would answer them on the phone.
How do I start looking for a house?
Call Mark or Dave at the office and tell them what you are looking for — price range, number of bedrooms, and which part of the county you like. They will set you up on an MLS search so new listings hit your inbox the same day they go live. From there you pick the ones you want to walk through and they handle scheduling. No obligation, no pressure. Most buyers see their first round of homes within a week of that first call.
What does property management cost?
We charge a flat percentage of collected rent — no setup fees, no nickel-and-dime line items. The exact rate depends on the property type and number of units. Mary Casel will walk you through the management agreement on a quick call and give you a straight number. We handle tenant placement, rent collection, maintenance calls, inspections, and lease enforcement. You get a monthly owner statement and a direct line to Mary if anything comes up.
Can I see a rental before I apply?
Yes. We do not ask anyone to apply sight unseen. Call the office and we will schedule a showing — most of the time we can get you in the same week. If you are relocating from out of state, we can do a video walkthrough on FaceTime or Google Meet so you can see the unit, the parking, and the neighborhood before you commit.
How long does closing take?
A typical closing in Volusia County takes about 30 to 45 days from accepted offer to keys in hand. Cash deals can close faster — sometimes in two weeks. The biggest variables are inspections, appraisal turnaround, and how quickly the lender processes the file. Mark and Dave stay on top of every deadline so nothing slips through the cracks.
Do I need a buyer's agent?
You do not have to have one, but it costs you nothing as a buyer — the seller pays the commission. A buyer's agent works for you: they negotiate the price, flag inspection issues, coordinate with the lender and title company, and make sure you do not miss a deadline that could cost you your deposit. In short, there is no downside.
What happens if my tenant stops paying?
We follow Florida statute to the letter. First we post a three-day notice. If the tenant does not pay or vacate, we coordinate with our eviction attorney to file. Throughout the process we keep you informed with plain-language updates — no legal jargon, no surprises. Our goal is to resolve it as quickly as the law allows and get your unit re-rented.
Are your rentals pet-friendly?
It depends on the property. Some of our owners allow pets with a pet deposit or monthly pet rent; others do not. Each listing on our rentals page notes whether pets are accepted. If you have a specific animal — breed, size, number — call Mary Casel and she can tell you exactly which units are a fit.
How do I get a home valuation?
Call the office or fill out the contact form and say you want a market analysis. Mark or Dave will pull recent comparable sales on your street and in your subdivision, adjust for condition and upgrades, and give you a realistic price range — not an algorithm guess. The CMA is free and there is no obligation to list. Most people get theirs within a few days of asking.
Not covered here?
Call the office. Somebody picks up.