Understanding Appraisals: What You Need to Know   Appraisal is crucial in determining the final sale price when buying or selling a home. But what exactly is an appraisal, and how does it impact your transaction?What Is a Home Appraisal? A home appraisal is an unbiased, professional assessment of a property's value, conducted by a licensed appraiser. Mortgage lenders require appraisals when a buyer is financing a home to ensure its value aligns with the loan amount they approve. This protects both the buyer and the lender from overpaying for a home.Who Requests and Owns the Appraisal? Requested by: The buyer’s lender, as part of mortgage approval. Paid for by: The buyer (typically). Owned by: The lender, not the buyer or seller. However, buyers usually receive a copy. Seller Access: Se... 05/18/2025

The spring season presents a unique opportunity for savvy first-time homebuyers to get ahead in the market. While many are waiting for rates to drop, those who act now can reap significant benefits.Recent market trends show that inventory levels and new listings have increased, offering first-time buyers a wider selection of homes. This temporary lull in competition means you have more negotiating power and time to find your perfect home without the pressure of bidding wars.By purchasing now, you're not just securing a home but making a wise investment. Even if current mortgage rates are slightly higher, you're locking in today's home prices before they potentially rise more. Remember, you can always refinance when rates decrease, but you can't go back in time to buy at today's prices.M... 05/17/2025

The share of first-time buyers in the market fell to record lows, but that means more choices for our buyers who are in the market, and we know the best financing programs around. We have the right home for you, I am sure of it. Call now and tell me what you're looking for.Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWhat IS My Home Worth? How Much Home Do I Qualify For  The C-Note: Your Quick Guide to All Things Real EstateWelcome to The C-Note, the go-to source for everything real estate in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you're buying, selling, investing, or managing rental properties, we've got you covered. With Charles Stallions as your trusted real estate broker, you'll find expert advice and actionable insights to help you make confident decisions.Have a question about the lo... 05/16/2025

What is a VA loan?VA loan requirements & Certificate of Eligibility (COE)VA loan limitsVA loan typesVA funding feeVA jumbo loansApplying for a VA home loanVA loans vs. USDA and FHA loansHow to get the best VA loanHomes for the brave. Military Veterans and those actively serving have earned several significant VA home loan benefits. We understand the value of those benefits and are here to help you maximize them and make the most intelligent decisions for you and your family. To show our support for those who serve, we also offer additional benefits, including no lender fee at close1 and relaxed credit policies. In 1944, Congress and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) developed the enterprising notion to offer military service members a unique, affordable way to secure home loans an... 05/15/2025

Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWhat IS My Home Worth? How Much Home Do I Qualify For  The C-Note: Your Quick Guide to All Things Real EstateWelcome to The C-Note, the go-to source for everything real estate in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or managing rental properties, we’ve got you covered. With Charles Stallions as your trusted real estate broker, you’ll find expert advice and actionable insights to help you make confident decisions.Have a question about the local area, from top dining spots to job opportunities or real estate guidance? Call or text Charles at 850-476-4494, or email charles@charlesstallions.com—it’s who we “R.”Mortgage 101: Simplifying the ProcessAre you considering financing, refinancing, or just navigating the ... 05/14/2025

Summer presents an ideal time for prospective first-time buyers to purchase a home. The warm weather and longer days create optimal conditions for house hunting and moving, allowing first-time buyers to thoroughly inspect properties and envision their future homes in the best light.One of the primary advantages of summer home buying is the increased inventory available. Inventory is up almost 20% as of March this year compared to 2024.  Many sellers choose to list their properties during this season, providing buyers with a broader selection of homes to choose from and increasing the likelihood of finding a property that meets their specific needs and preferences.The competitive nature of the summer real estate market can also work in buyers' favor. With more homes on the market, seller... 05/14/2025

First-Time Homebuyer Guide for Ferry Pass, Florida – With Charles Stallions as Your Trusted Real Estate BrokerIf you're a first-time homebuyer in Ferry Pass, Florida, several assistance programs are available to help you achieve your dream of homeownership. With Charles Stallions as your trusted real estate broker, you’ll receive expert guidance through every process step—qualification to closing.1. Who Qualifies as a First-Time Homebuyer? In Florida, you're considered a first-time homebuyer if you haven’t owned and occupied a primary residence in the past three years. This opens the door to special financing options and incentives designed for new buyers.2. Basic Requirements to Qualify To access most first-time homebuyer programs in Ferry Pass, you’ll need to meet a few standard crite... 05/13/2025

 Launched in June 2022, the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program was designed to help eligible frontline workers purchase a primary residence in the communities in which they live and serve. Since its inception, the program has helped 6,753 “hometown heroes” buy their first home. Building off that success, Governor DeSantis expanded the program’s reach on July 1, 2023, with the “Live Local Act,” which saw three important updates: The bill lifted the specific occupation requirement and opened eligibility to all working Floridians with the other required qualifications. The maximum down payment assistance was increased from $25,000 to $35,000. The 2023 Florida Legislature funded the program with an additional $100 million for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Through this program, eligible bo... 05/13/2025

Home Buyer Programs SHIP First Time Homebuyers Program The City of Pensacola and Escambia County jointly participate in the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) First-Time Homebuyers Program. The program is designed to assist low—and moderate-income families in obtaining affordable housing. Based on income, SHIP funds of up to $45,000 are available for down payment and closing cost assistance. The monies are offered in the form of a zero-interest deferred payment loan. Program Requirements: Applicant(s) cannot have owned a home or had ownership interest in homesteaded property in the last three years. Applicant’s total household income must be within the maximum income eligibility limits. Applicant(s) must have sufficient income and creditworthiness to qualify for primary financ... 05/12/2025

✅ First-Time Home Buyer Checklist With Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate Broker in Pensacola💰 Financial Preparation Check your credit score and credit report Pay down debts and avoid new credit accounts Build a savings plan for down payment & closing costs Review your job stability and income consistency Set a realistic monthly budget including: Mortgage payment Property taxes Homeowners insurance Utilities & maintenance Emergency fund 📝 Loan & Pre-Approval Research first-time buyer mortgage options Compare interest rates from multiple lenders Get pre-approved for a mortgage Understand loan terms, fees, and required documents Ask your lender how much home you can afford 🏡 Home Search Preparation Make a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves Choose neighborhoods in Pensacola to f... 05/12/2025

By Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate Broker in PensacolaSearch MLS  For Your Next HomeHow Much Home Do I Qualify For I love working with first-time home buyers in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Every single one is different and requires an expert.  Charles Stallions is an expert who guides you through lawn care, inspections, and finding the perfect loan. Since 1995, we have met every first-time buyer where they are, listening and paying attention to the details.Because I remember so clearly what it was like to be one myself. I was 19  years old when I bought my first home, and I was 26 when I started investing in real estate and working with others.  While extremely excited at the prospect of owning my own home, I was also nervous and apprehensive about the expense... 05/11/2025

Homeownership: Beyond the PurchaseBuying a home is just the first step in your journey as a homeowner, and having a trusted resource like Charles Stallions, CRS, or CBR by your side is invaluable. Keeping communication channels open with your real estate broker ensures you’re prepared for everything homeownership involves.Stay Connected Follow Charles Stallions on social media for insightful homeowner tips and market updates. Share your experience by leaving a review on Google or Facebook to highlight the exceptional service you received. Add Charles Stallions' email to your "safe sender's list" so you never miss newsletters, market stats, or important updates about maintaining your home or understanding market conditions. Your Real Estate ResourceCharles Stallions is your go-to advisor... 05/10/2025

Fire Safety Tips for a Safer HomeFire safety is essential for every household. Follow these simple yet effective tips to protect your family and home: Install Smoke Alarms: Place smoke detectors in every bedroom, hallway, and living area. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. Create an Escape Plan: Develop a family fire escape plan with at least two exits from every room—practice fire drills twice a year. Keep Fire Extinguishers Handy. Keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen, garage, and other areas prone to fire, and ensure everyone knows how to use them. Be Cautious in the Kitchen: Never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items like towels and paper towels away from heat sources. Inspect Electrical Systems: Avoid overloading outlets, and check for frayed c... 05/10/2025

How the MLS System Helps Buyers and Sellers — With Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate BrokerThe Multiple Listing Service (MLS) has transformed how real estate is bought and sold. Through its collaborative design, the MLS allows real estate professionals to share listings and streamline property sales in a way no single agent or company could do alone—this results in faster transactions and greater efficiency, benefiting buyers and sellers.As your trusted real estate broker in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida, Charles Stallions leverages the full power of the MLS to ensure your home buying or selling experience is smooth, informed, and efficient.✅ MLS Benefits for Buyers With access to a centralized, up-to-date property database, buyers working with Charles Stallions ca... 05/09/2025

By Charles StallionsReal Estate Broker/Owner with Charles Stallions Real Estate Services 610125 The Dangers of Overloading Circuits — And How Charles Stallions Can Help Protect Your Home Overloaded circuits are a hidden danger in many homes across Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze. You can exceed the circuit's capacity when you plug too many appliances into one outlet or power strip—especially high-wattage items like space heaters, air conditioners, or microwaves. This causes wires to overheat, increasing the risk of electrical shock and home fires. Warning signs include: Circuit breakers that frequently trip Flickering or dimming lights Buzzing sounds near outlets A burning smell near electrical fixtures According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical malfuncti... 05/09/2025

Charles Stallions, CBE, CRS, CSE, is a local broker, not some mammoth company playing realtor wanna-be. We are the market in Pensacola. There are three things that Zillow, Realtor.com, and MLS were never about, and for that reason alone, you should text "show me" to 850-476-4494. I will be honest, though, most will not, WHY because they buy into the hype and therefore lose out on the gem, the perfect home they desired. We have been around since 1995, and we have helped thousands move, how do we know we find the "as close to perfect home" as you can get because the average buyer will move in 7 to 10 years if not sooner our buyers move about 20 to 25 years meaning they loved the house, neighborhood, school and area they bought in. Yes, it is a formula that works. Search MLS  For Your Next... 05/05/2025

Listed by Thomas Boyett Brokered by Robert Slack LLC  More pictures and informationDon’t miss this beautifully maintained all-brick 4-bedroom home, offering 1,898 sq ft of comfortable and spacious living. Located in a highly desirable area, this property is move-in ready and packed with upgrades!The kitchen boasts ample counter space, a pantry, breakfast bar, and a cozy breakfast nook—perfect for quick meals. Need more space for gatherings? The formal dining room is ideal for hosting family dinners and holiday celebrations.Enjoy your own private retreat in the spacious owner’s suite, with a split-bedroom floor plan that ensures privacy from the other bedrooms. Recent upgrades include a new HVAC system, new hot water heater, and a new garage door, providing modern efficiency and peace of... 04/24/2025

Listed by LaShon Spicer Brokered by Epique Realty, Inc.  More information and pictures Welcome to this beautifully remodeled home that perfectly combines comfort, style, and convenience. Featuring a spacious open-concept layout, this property is ideal for both relaxing evenings and entertaining guests. The interior showcases modern finishes throughout, providing a cozy yet contemporary living experience.Abundant natural light pours in through large windows, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere in every room. Step outside to a well-maintained yard—perfect for outdoor activities, gardening, or simply soaking up the Florida sunshine.This home is conveniently located near top local attractions, with easy access to shopping and dining. Enjoy close proximity to popular destinations like ... 04/23/2025

Use our Buyer's Guide to gather information and facts on buying your first home, making it simple. What You Get with Charles as Your Buyer’s Agent: Customized Home Searches: We’ll find properties that match your needs, budget, and lifestyle.Market Expertise: With insider knowledge of Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Charles ensures you never pay too much.Negotiation Skills: We work diligently to secure your best deal.Seamless Process: Charles manages the details from inspections to closing, allowing you to focus on your move.When you collaborate with Charles Stallions, you’re not just purchasing a home—you’re gaining a reliable advocate who prioritizes your goals. Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWe would love to show it to you. How Much Home Do I Qualify For  The C-Note: Your Quick Guide... 04/15/2025

Homeownership: The Proven Path to Building Wealth with Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate BrokerHomeownership has long been one of the most effective ways to build long-term wealth—and for good reason. According to the Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED), home values have appreciated at an average of 5.56% over the past 60 years. That’s well above the 3.7% average inflation rate over the same period, making real estate one of the most reliable investments.As your trusted real estate broker, Charles Stallions helps guide buyers and investors toward smart homeownership decisions that increase lifestyle value and net worth. Owning a home isn’t just about having a place to live—it’s about setting the foundation for financial success for you and the next generation..Real Estate’s T... 04/11/2025