Detailed information on vacation real estate properties in Palm Beach County

The Least You Should Know When It Comes to Vacation Properties for Boca Raton

There’s no secret when it comes to vacation properties in Palm Beach County. However, if you’re someone thinking about investing or selling your Boca Raton winter home, there are a few things you should know. This quick guide will help you with some tips that our snowbirds often use to help them get through the vacant months keeping them at ease.

First, Determine Your Projected Time or Absence

Whether you live in a country club or apartment style condominium, there may be a point where your property is left uninhabited. If you fit into this category, the first thing you’ll want to determine what is your timeframe. Since Florida’s weather changes rapidly throughout the seasons, your home may need a few things. Depending on the length of time you’ll be gone, you’ll want to remember to put things like your mail or cable on hold until you return. Many of the phone companies offer a discounted rate for you to suspend your services rather than canceling and starting over. For those of you who may rent that property while gone, be sure to let the visitors know about these utilities.

Second – Network with the Neighbors You Trust

Next, you’ll want the neighbors to know you’ll be gone. In most places such as Townsend Place, there’s a sense of community where other residents look out for one another. They can help alert the concierge or you if there’s any suspicious activity. For instance, if a service professional such as FPL is coming to check on your usage, they should check in, and you’ll need to arrange that with the managers on duty. Besides, you’ll want to inform your designated neighbor, or property management know you’ll be gone and to keep an eye out for your investment. Always remember, a favor, owes a favor.

Don’t Forget to Do Your Spring Cleaning Before Leaving the Area

Besides taking responsibility for your home and property, you’ll also want to do some spring cleaning. For many Boca Ratonians, it’s time to winterize their dwellings rather than set up shop for when they move back. Housekeepers are very busy this time of year in most of the luxury properties. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce for recommendations. If you’re living in a country club estate, you can ask your concierge or the staff working in housekeeping if they can send you the info. Some of the housekeeper’s moonlight for other business and usually come with strong credentials for background checks. Don’t forget to contact your landscaping company if the community doesn’t offer this service. Words of wisdom, don’t let the companies know you aren’t around. (There’s been rumor some tenants leave clothing on the floor just to make it appear there’s someone there).

Pets Should Be Included in the Cleaning Tasks

Don’t forget about your pets before you leave! Doggie beds should be washed and stored in a plastic bag to keep unwanted visitors off his things. Also, be sure to ask the maid or housekeeper to toss out the litter box. This way you’ll have a fresh, clean environment when you come back.

Weather-Proof Your Investment

Other than taking extra precaution for your investment, your real estate property is going to need more than a full-time dwelling. If you’ve been contemplating buying a vacation home, the items we’re listing are something to keep in mind. Things like weatherproofing are also helpful and sometimes necessary. Your vacation property will be unattended during hurricane season. While many of you have storm-impact windows, if you live on the coast, you’ll want to ensure these are correctly installed as well straighten out any repairs. Also, don’t leave items such as lounge chairs and plants on your balconies. In the event, there’s inclement weather while you are away, be sure to have a game plan with a local or the manager to check your property afterward. The last thing you’ll want is your prized possessions flapping around in the wind due to a broken window. In the just of it all, be sure to follow our other blogs on weather-proofing tips.

Stock Up on Stone Crab and Key Lime Pie and Mail It Home

On the contrary of the seriousness of owning a vacation property, there’s also the fun aspect. Be sure to stock up on plenty of things like key lime pie and stone crab sold at a plethora of fine dining establishments. As you can imagine, you can take some of the tropics back home with you to share with those who weren’t able to join you in Palm Beach County this season.

Secure Your Rare and Priceless Possessions in a Safe

Once you’re done thinking about that, it’s back to more helpful hints for vacation homeowners. This next tip is one of great importance. Even though you may have security in your building, there’s always a chance a mistake can occur. Make sure you store your essential and prized possessions in a safe place such as a locked cabinet or safe. While there’s always excellent security in a luxury home or condo, this tip will give you additional peace of mind.

Don’t Forget the Boat!

Additionally, if you’re a boat owner, you’ll want to be sure your hoist and all the dock’s tools are working correctly. Many of the homeowners who are a yachtsman, don’t take a chance and put their beautiful vessels in a closed hangar. The more we think of in this blog, the more we’ll help you remember.

Give the Staff the Season Off

For some of you, a personal chef may be the person staying at your residence while you're gone. If that’s the case, then consider a designated quarter or some other form of safety from the rest of the house. Regardless of the arrangements, this is an excellent time of year to give your help time off or even a vacation.

Introduce Your ‘Sit Ins’ to the Management

If you are going to be allowing a friend or family member stay at your Boca Raton home during the offseason, then be sure to introduce them to the people who matter at your country club or front desk. This way no hassle or issue can arise when the management knows you’ve got a guest who will be residing in your dwelling.

Whatever the case may be whether you’re looking to invest in a vacation property or you already own, it’s always a good policy to follow simple guidelines. You’ll be happy knowing you took the extra precautions on this checklist too. Contact our professional staff if you’ve been thinking about selling your vacation condo or home.