To our Canadian friends - Welcome!

It's a great time to live in Florida!

But it's not only me who thinks so. Canadians are flocking to Florida in record numbers. In fact, according to the news as much as 15% of all Florida homes are purchased by individuals and companies from outside of the United States. Are you ready to enjoy your place in the sun?

If you are, look to St. Augustine Florida. It's a coastal city on the Atlantic Ocean that has European charm and centuries of history. Our city is off the beaten path, yet still close to large Florida cities such as Orlando, Tampa and Miami.

Now is the time to buy

In St. Augustine you find spacious living with a large supply of single-family homes and townhomes mixed with coastal beach condominiums. Most homes here have their own yards where your children can play and you can enjoy a quiet evening on the back deck. Maybe you'd like to swim in your own pool? It can happen!

It is no secret that in the last few years the value of the dollar has declined against the Canadian Dollar. While it makes it more difficult for Americans to buy Canadian products, it makes buying in the United States a bargain. With the decline of the dollar, U.S. airfares are more affordable, making it easy to get to your new holiday home or investment property. Depending upon the length of your stay, driving from Canada is possible and easy due to a very good interstate system of roadways.

Why buy in St. Augustine?

St. Augustine is unlike any other Florida city. In fact, it is unlike any other city in the United States. St. Augustine is America's oldest city, founded in 1565 by Spanish General Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. While 443 years hardly measures against European cities, in the United States, St. Augustine is the "Ancient City".

St. Augustine has more than history. It is a coastal city with wide sandy beaches, perfect for sunning, swimming, surfing and fishing. If you enjoy nature, there are coastal marshes and lakes, twisty rivers and large parks just waiting for you to explore.

The weather makes it easy to get outside. Our winters stay between 7C (46F) and 25C (77F), while summers range from 18C (65F) to 31C (89F) in temperature. If you'd rather stay inside, we have some of Florida's best restaurants and shopping areas, all within an easy drive from your new home.

St. Augustine is near other major Florida cities and attractions. Jacksonville is just to our north, offering all of the amenities of a big city. Perhaps you'll go to Orlando for a day at Walt Disney World or visit Universal Studios. Or go over to the gulf coast at Tampa to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico. Miami is straight down Interstate 95 and the Florida Keys and Key West just beyond that.

About buying a home in Florida

Many Canadian buyers purchase a home in St. Augustine as investment properties, holiday homes or a place to work part-time while in they are in the United States. It is easy to purchase your new home as there is a large supply of real estate available and the United States does not restrict or scrutinize most property purchases by Canadians. Each Canadian investor has the same rights as American property owners.

Real Estate Purchases

Here are a few guidelines for purchasing real estate in the United States:

1. Contract: There must be a signed contract between the buyer and the seller.
2. Financing: U.S. banks will ask for two references. Usually one from your bank and another from your accountant. You must have a U.S. bank account, but these are easy to get.
3. Title: This will be prepared by an attorney or closing company. This is to make sure the property can be purchased legally.
4. Closing: This is where the money is disbursed and the title to the property is delivered.

How I can help

My name is Janet Carey. I am a fourth generation Floridian and real estate professional. I have sold homes to international buyers so I know the process well. I will explain what happens and when, so you will know the process too. I will negotiate the best price and handle all of the paperwork and inspections for you. If you need financing for your new home, I can help you find a bank that that offers the best rates.

My job is to make sure your home purchase is easy, secure and professional.

Here is the best part. You get my services for free! If you don't buy a home, you pay nothing. If you do buy, I collect a fee from the seller, not from you.

Your Next Step

Please take a few moments and complete the information request form below. I will get back with you as soon as possible. Thank you for using my web site!

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