Boca Raton Real Estate Blog

Best Flowers for your Boca Garden | 5 Flowers To Wow The Neighbors

boca raton flowers to plant

Florida is a tropical paradise. The sun, the palm trees, the beach, and the islander vibe allow many Boca natives the chance to experience the perfect staycation. While some of us enjoy going out and retreating to the beach for some R & R, others are comfortable enjoying relaxing at home. And what's not to enjoy? With many yards adorned with flowers and plants that are native to many countries in the Caribbean and Central/South America--it's no surprise that many of us take up the wonderful art of home gardening. Many folks with a green thumb understand the difficulties of growing plants and flowers in these tumultuous conditions. From the intense humidity and sun--to the constant thunderstorms that roll in from the west, gardens can take a beating, but these 5 flowers can improve your Boca Raton home garden. 

lantana flower

LANTANA

No, not the road located in Lake Worth, but a beautiful perennial of the verbena family. These shrubs can grow up to a maximum of 6 feet tall and make any garden pop. The array of colors these flowers produce ranges from reds, oranges, blues, and even multi-colored variants as the flower matures. Aside from its hardy exterior and favor of hot, humid climates, Lantana attracts a multitude of butterfly and bird varieties, making it popular for anyone here in Boca...

Realtor Hacks | 5 Ways To Maximize Your Time

real estate time saving hacks

The market has never been more competitive. We certainly chase quality leads and commissions, but the most valuable commodity of all tends to be overlooked: time. With a constant undersupply of properties and an oversupply of real estate professionals, only the leanest and meanest will be able to call this work a full-time career. There are no half-measures and managing your day-to-day is paramount as all industries demand higher productivity each year. It’s time to hack your routine with these 5 tips to maximize your time as a real estate agent.

Set Appropriate Boundaries

setting professional boundaries

Want to go all-in for the first few years to build your reputation? Do it! Is it your priority to raise your family? Set your schedule to make sure you are available for them consistently. This is easier said than done, but regardless if you’re a fresh-faced agent with a newly minted license or a seasoned pro with a family, setting clear boundaries between your work and home life will stave off resentment for your work and eventual burnout.

No Distractions

distraction free work environment

It’s been proven that lots of little distractions that take you away from your work rob you of your momentum. Just like a car that has to stop...

5 Venomous and Predatory Wild Animals In Boca Raton

dangerous animals in boca raton

Florida has a semi-comical reputation as the "Australia of America" mostly due to its numerous venomous and predatory animals. the flora and fauna of Florida have adapted to our subtropical environs, providing a backdrop for both prehistoric and invasive species. While these animals are something to be wary of encountering, by no means should we live in fear of these incredible creatures. A healthy respect and a basic body of knowledge will go a long way in keeping our Boca Raton environment clean and preparing you for the potential of an encounter. Remember, these animals largely want nothing to do with you, and it's their environment we call home. Here are 5 predatory and venomous creatures that call Boca Raton home.

Cottonmouth

venomous cottonmouth snake

Also known as the Water Moccasin, this aquatic dwelling pit viper can be found largely in muddy flats, lakefronts, puddles, and moist woodland. Given their name for their distinctively white mouths, these are among the most commonly encountered venomous snakes in Florida. While bites are infrequent and rarely deadly, these snakes should not be taken lightly, especially after heavy rains and flooding.

Portuguese Man o' War

man o'war jellyfish washed up on shore

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Volunteer Opportunities In Boca Raton | Where to Donate Your Time

vounteer opportunities in boca

In Boca Raton, we’re blessed to have a prosperous city with a special Floridian balance of vitality and an easy-going lifestyle. We’re also a generous crowd and many of us heed the call of public service. We’re proud to boast dozens of community service organizations in Boca Raton. If you’re looking to donate your time to worthy causes, here are some of our recommendations for Boca Raton community service.

Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services

21300 Coleman Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33428

Boca Jewish Family ServicesRuth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services (JFS) provides senior, food and financial, mental health, and career services to all members of the community regardless of religious affiliation. Volunteer opportunities include chaplaincy, a community mentoring program, senior ride program (with mileage per diem), telephone reassurance to homebound seniors, substance abuse counseling, and a local food pantry. JFS is one of the most active community service organizations in Boca where your help will be directed to the ones who need it most.

Church World Service

220 S Congress Park Drive, Suite...

4 Ways To Spot A Good Realtor

ways to spot a good realtor

It seems like there will always be an ample supply of real estate agents. Thanks to the booms of the 90s and the 2000s, more and more people have snagged licenses to help with a career change or augment their income from a normal day job. Even when the market is flush with inventory, there will always be more licensed agents than available rooms. You probably know a handful of real estate agents casually and outside the sphere of mailers, billboards, or referrals. But how does one know which real estate agent is the real deal? Here are 4 ways to spot a good real estate agent.

They Present Themselves Professionally

acting professionally

Putting romance aside, imagine that you’re on a date with your agent. Have they dressed appropriately? Can they keep a conversation going? Do they know what they are talking about? Are they self-aware and honest? Can they keep your interest? Is the dashboard of their car clear of a three-month build-up of fast-food packaging? If you can answer yes to all six of these questions, mazel tov, you’re off to a strong start!

They Are Knowledgeable

knowledgeable realtors

Good real estate agents will know their market like the back of their hands. They stay constantly informed of the local home buying trends, which neighborhoods have seen...

The Millennial Home Buyer | 3 Keys To Selling Homes to Millennials

millennial home buyer

For the past decade, Millennials have been the butt of late-night monologues and satirical cartoons. Often portrayed as listless, unmotivated hedonists, it’s a common misunderstanding that Millennials are flighty and entitled. These notions could not be further from the truth, especially as the 19-year old effigies of Millennials that have been so mercilessly lampooned no longer exist. The Pew Research Center identifies a Millennial as someone who was born between 1981 and 1996, meaning that the eldest of their cohort has just begun to turn 40. It’s highly unlikely that they’ll only be obsessed with Starbucks and Kanye, as the stereotypes may claim. More than likely, their Grande Frappuccino is cooling-off in the center console of their Camry with Kanye’s Graduation playing as they drive to the closing of their new South Florida home. Here are 3 things realtors need to know about millennials.

They’re All on Social Media

millennials on social media

If you haven’t already, you’re behind the curve on this one. When the pandemic initiated a mass exodus of tenants from all metropolitan areas in Spring/Summer 2020, those residential real estate agents still left standing had to deal with a massively oversupplied rental market. Among them were Millennial and some enterprising Gen Z agents who took to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, collectively garnering millions of views and impressions that would have been out of reach to even the most seasoned...

5 Key Skills Every Realtor Needs To Succeed

 realtor skills everyone should know

As the housing boom of 2020 continues into 2021, a shortage of available homes on the market has spurred a feeding frenzy with home prices skyrocketing to their highest levels in decades. One might think that this is the perfect time to be a real estate agent but think again, as a dearth of inventory and an oversupply of real estate agents means that this is one of the most competitive eras in the industry’s history. Here are 5 skills successful real estate agents need to stand out in 2021 and beyond.

Mastery of E-Mail Marketing

mastery of email marketing

The personal computer has been stable in the average American household since the 1990s. Phones keep us connected to our inboxes constantly. The age of being justifiably incommunicado is long past, as we can be contacted at any time. Now is the time to use that to your advantage! E-mail marketing software with built-in automation has never been more affordable. Maintaining a slow and steady, but continuous e-mail marketing campaign will allow you to remain present within the short and long-term memory of your would-be clients, making you the first person they’ll think of when the time comes to buy, sell, or make what will hopefully be a lucrative referral.

Show-Up as The Professional

presenting professionally

We understand that some of you make work day in and day out in 90% humidity. While some of the most...

Must Have Kitchen Accessories For Your Boca Raton Home

kitchen accessories for boca home

We are certainly not wanting for good cuisine in Boca Raton. You could probably dine out for dinner every evening in Boca Raton and never tire of what we have to offer. Nevertheless, you didn’t buy that seaside home to use its impressive kitchen as a place to pour wine. Well, we’d hope not! For the proud members of the culinary cohort, here are some of the best kitchen accessories for the modern Boca home.

Vitamix Food Cycler FC-50

vitamix food cycler

There’s no shame in admitting that you can’t finish your plate, but what if your plate was already leftover? You can toss it in the trash, but wait a couple of days and the smell will remind you that it’s time to trek out to the mosquito den that is your city-issued garbage can. Simply place your unused food waste in the FC-50 and it will break it down to 10% of its volume and store it safely and unobtrusively thanks to its carbon filtration system that eliminates odors. When your FC-50 is full, you now have nutrient-rich and chemical-free fertilizer for your soil! As far as modern kitchen tools go, this is useful inside and out.

 

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The Best Caribbean Food In Boca Raton | Island Food Near Me

island food in boca raton

Boca Raton is home to some of the best fine dining in South Florida. You are never far from outstanding Italian food or sensual French cuisine. However, often overlooked is the cuisine of our closest international neighbors: the island of the Caribbean. Below are some of the best Boca Raton Caribbean restaurants for your dining pleasure!

Rocksteady Jamaican Bistro

  • 2399 N Federal Hwy Unit C, Boca Raton, FL 33431

jamaican foods on plate

Craving some ackee and saltfish? No? Ever heard of it? It’s the Jamaican national dish and you will forevermore after your first plate of it at Rocksteady, one of the best places to find Jamaican food in Boca Raton and all of South Florida. You’ll find favorites such as jerk chicken or shrimp, baby back ribs, or brown stew chicken, along with some curry goat to leave your comfort zone. Inside, you will be greeted by modern décor and authentic personalities from the island. You will be well taken care of from your first visit.

Caribbean Grill Cuban Restaurant

  • 1332 NW Boca Raton Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33432 

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The Best Everyday Italian Restaurants In Boca Raton

italian food in boca raton

The comfort food that transformed America - the 20th-century contribution of Italian-Americans to our national cuisine cannot be ignored. From massive delivery pizza chains to high-end trattorias, Italian food in boca Raton is a flourishing culinary scene, with a spot for every moment and a dish for every taste. see where some of the best Italian food in Boca Raton can be found below!

Maggiano's Little Italy

penne arrabiata with basil

Maggiano's has endured as one of Boca Raton's best Italian restaurants. Just northeast of our Central Boca Raton office, Maggiano's has been a popular destination for birthdays, date nights, graduation parties, and whatever reason calls you and your loved ones to gather. Their menu covers it all - classic Italian favorites, high-end steaks, and delectable cocktails. There's a reason Maggiano's is still a popular Italian restaurant in Boca Raton - and they continue to forge ahead with a great reputation around the community.

Giuseppe's Cafe

gnocchi with parmesan...

5 Hurricane Safety Tips You May Have Overlooked | Boca Raton Hurricane Preparedness

5 key hurricane prep tips

Hurricane season is always something to reckon with. following the devastation of Hurricane Andrew, the state of Florida never looked back when it came to hurricane preparedness. thankfully, there are many public messages, available info, and helpful guides on how to protect your home and loved ones. however, there are less obvious, locally known tips and tricks that can change the outcome of a hurricane for your home and family. here are 5 lesser-known but incredibly crucial hurricane safety tips to employ this year at your Boca home.

Cut Down Your Coconuts

split coconuts on teal background

Other than savoring that sweet nectar and the deliciously healthy meat of this tropical fruit, cutting down your coconuts serves a very important purpose. While the gale-force winds and powerful gusts are what carry the damage of a storm to fruition, it's often the projectiles that cause most inland property damage. Aside from the storm surge and potential flash flooding, your coconuts turn to cannonballs when left on their own to sway in the wind. Be safe, and hire help if you must, but be sure to remove these excess fruits lest they turn to a destructive force with winds at their backs.

Bring In Potted Plants

indoor potted plants

Another way to prevent projectiles from destroying your and your neighbor's property is to bring in potted plants. Everything from a small plastic herb pot to a massive, ornate...

Boca Raton Green Homes | Tips For An Eco Friendly Boca Home

go green for boca raton

In Boca Raton, we love green! It’s the year-round color many of us move here for, so why shouldn’t your home share the same shade? Not as in a new coat of paint, we can’t help you with swatches, but by making your Boca Raton home friendlier to the environment! Here are 4 tips for a green Boca home!

1. Watering Your Lawn at Night

watering garden at night

We’ll admit, we Boca Raton homeowners can be a little vain when it comes to our lawns. Who doesn’t relish a verdant welcome whenever we return home? But with temperatures in the 80s and 90s for most of the year, your little plot of paradise will need plenty of TLC from you and the skies above. Even with our summer rains, which are almost a daily occurrence in our Boca Raton neighborhoods, our lawns can become dry and parched later in the year under the Florida sun. Take our advice and water well dark sunset. With no sun in the sky, you won’t have to contend with evaporation on both the grass and in your wallet when you get your water bill. Your lawn will thank you for it!

2. Research Solar Energy Solution

solar panels on rooftop

We've had water heaters powered by solar...

The Best Fine Dining In Boca Raton | Fine Dining In Boca

fine dining in boca | blog header image

We’ve got the beaches, the golf courses, the shopping, but our little leisurely slice of paradise would not be complete without fine dining in Boca Raton. Whether you are looking for the romantic or the Zagat rated, we have the perfect place for your extra special night.

Abe & Louie’s (Steak)

2200 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33431

filet mignon steak dinner

Abe & Louie have often fought and won for the crown of the best steakhouse in Boca. One of two restaurants (the other can be found in Boston), our Zagat-rated Abe & Louie’s offers the classic steak and seafood presented on white linens against a dark backdrop of mahogany paneling. Dinner there will set the scene for a serious meeting, or a romantic evening.

Lucca (Modern Italian)

501 E Camino Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432

modern italian farfalle dish

From its dramatic cathedral-esque arched windows to its art-deco-inspired chandeliers, few restaurants have such flair as Lucca. Located in the Boca Raton Resort & Club, reservations are required if you intend to dine as a non-hotel guest (and shorts are not permitted at dinner). Its menu is modern Italian, presenting to the diner a blending of traditional and progressive fare. If only measured by its décor,...