About us and Client's reviews

         
Sergio Lucena PA and Charles Wiener PA Real Estate Consultants  experts in Boca Raton,Delray Beach, Highland Beach,Gulf stream,Ocean Ridge and Boynton Beach We bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate in South Florida. It's not the same everywhere, so you need someone you can trust for up-to-date information. I am eager to serve you. Here are some of the things I can do for you:
Find Your Next Home
You need someone who knows this area inside and out! I can work with you to find the right home at the right price for you, including all the neighborhood amenities that matter - not to mention the essential criteria you have for your ideal home
Sell a Home
When it's time to move, you need someone who will advertise your home, show to prospective buyers, negotiate the purchase contract, arrange financing, oversee the inspections, handle all necessary paperwork and supervise the closing. I can take care of everything you need, from start to close.
Consult on Home Selling Tactics
Oftentimes buyers don't visualize living in your home the way you do. I can make your home attractive to its ideal audience - which can help you get top dollar. Things like staging the home, making repairs or minor improvements, or even simply painting the walls can be the difference between a home resting on the market and one that's sold fast.

Testimonial and reviews from Clients 

    

• ncl188 reviewed Sergio Lucena PA
 
• 05/19/2015
 
• Helped me sell a home

I would say Mr. Sergio Lucena is a A+++ realtor in the point of my view.

After my wife and I first met Mr. Sergio Lucena and talked with him in his office, we knew that he is very professional as a realtor. He knows the marketing especially our area very well and judged sale price accurately. He gave us many valuable suggestions that we didn't think about it as a customer. During the entire process he behave like a family member to try to help and get most benefit from the sale for us which I believe is very important.

Mr. Sergio Lucena went through entire sale process including the closing with us, so we can ask any questions when we needed. Any time if I have questions he responds us immediately without any delay. Also he is a good photographer, the pictures of our property that he took look very nice than it really is. The pictures are very important as it gives the first impression to the potential buyers. Mr. Sergio Lucena gave us a lot of good advice about how to prepare our property for the buyer to visit because we are still living inside property when the property was listed on market. We are very satisfied with sale result as we received multiple offers in couple days and the contract was signed very quickly (within 1 week) and the sale went very smoothly. And most importantly, we sold it at a price about 15% higher than what we expected at the beginning. Cheers!

As for characteristics and personalities, I have no complaint at all. Mr. Sergio Lucena is a very kind, helpful, polite gentlemen and knows how to respect people. He is like a friend of us although we don't know him before.

Everybody in the office is very nice and would like to provide help for us.

Once again Mr. Sergio Lucena is the best real estate agent ever. Believe me when you need a broker simply contact him to ask, you will not regret.

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  • Andrew Jose Olson reviewed Sergio Lucena PA  06/04/2014 Helped me buy a home

  Just excellent work. He helped me sell my condo and buy a house closer to work. This was probably the most painless home buying experience I've ever had. Everything happened in a streamlined fashion. I bought the house that matched my criteria, and I'm still astonished at how smoothly everything went.
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  • josh reed reviewed Sergio Lucena PA
   
  • 05/25/2014Helped me buy a home

  Miriam Araujo and Sergio Lucena support us with a high quality real state service - detailed orientation for all the process, local knowledge, identification of local opportunities etc. That support is more than important for us because we live overseas and we do not have any difficulty to close the deal due the real state expertise of Miriam and Sergio.

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    • Trulia User reviewed Sergio Lucena PA
     
    • 10/19/2013
     
    • Helped me buy a home Sergio is probably the nicest realtor in Palm Beach County!!! He not only sold our condo, he found us a new one to purchase. He worked diligently for us when the market was not booming. Both transactions went very smoothly and we were delighted with his professional manner, expertise and knowledge. You will not go wrong using Sergio as your agent!!!
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      • Trulia User reviewed Sergio Lucena PA
       
      • 07/06/2013
       
      • Helped me buy a home

      Sergio, was always available, treated me like I was his only client and truly cared about my needs. I highly recommend him to anyone searching for a home, he will work tirelessly until he finds the house you are looking for.

      
      

      • user8053272 reviewed Sergio Lucena PA
       
      • 10/29/2012
       
      • Helped me sell a home

      Just by luck of the draw we got Mr.Lucena to show our home. He called immediately and came right to the house. He explained the market and gave us a realistic value of our home.He showed the house 11 times in less then one week. We had an offer in less then a week and sold the home for more then the asking price.Mr. Lucena brings a level of service that has been lost in this country.He not only sold our home but found us a condo right on the Ocean in Palm Beach.

      Give him a call you will certainly be impressed with the effort he puts forth.

      • ser3151751 reviewed Sergio Lucena PA
       
      • 10/19/2012
       
      • Helped me buy a home

      Sergio is a fantastic professional. He is really dedicated to find the best for their clients. He cares about the details of the closing and properties. I really recommend him as a Realtor.

      
      

      • user0261231 reviewed Sergio Lucena PA
       
      • 05/22/2012
       
      • Helped me buy a home

      To whom it might concern, Sergio Lucena is a very knowledgeable, hard working professional real-state agent that I would recommend without any hesitation. He found us exactly what we were looking for at an incredible price.<br/><br/>Lidia & Jay Nunes

         
     
GRI-Graduete Realtor Institute,CIPS-Certified International Property Specialist,CDPE-Certified Distressed Property Expert,REOS-Foreclosure Specialist and E-PRO Realtor.

Pre qualification Letter X Pre approval Letter

Watch Charles Wiener PA interviewing Manola Kozar

If you want to know how to be pre approved call us 561 288 0907 

Buying a home in Boca Raton Florida

Buying a Home

Buying a home is a big deal. The financial and emotional stakes are high – but the rewards can pay dividends for a lifetime. Plain and simple, owning a home can improve your quality of life, provide stability and give you a sense of control you just can't get from renting. You have a place to live when you rent, but buying is something much deeper and better.

The Importance of a Buyer's Agent –

A real estate transaction is a complex process involving stacks of paperwork and a number of outside service providers and contractors. An experienced buyer's agent can guide you through the process, answering your questions and serving as your advocate. Your agent will help you find the property that fits your needs, submit offers and counteroffers, suggest a good property inspector and other professionals, and provide all sorts of relevant advice. With a buyer's agent, you'll have someone on your side, looking out for your interests every step of the way.

Market Insider

The data on this page is consolidated from multiple sources and includes current listings, recent sales, and more. Whether you're a buyer or seller, the knowledge you gain will help put you in control of your real estate transactions.  

Call or email anytime to discuss how this information can benefit you!

Price Trends - Sold vs. Listed

Understand the difference between "listing prices" (what sellers are asking for) and "sold prices" (what buyers are willing to pay).

By comparing these price trends, you'll have a good idea of where the market is heading. The median listing and sold property prices are calculated based on the market activity each month.

Just enter the Zip code and you find out:

Market Analysis, Community information,

local schools and insider tips.

Budgeting to Buy a House

No matter how good the credit rating, today's homebuyer no longer has the luxury of buying with little or zero down. Unless you are low-income with good credit, or a veteran, no-down loans are also a thing of the past.

Most lenders today want at least 20 percent of the loan amount as a down payment on a house. For a home priced between $168,300 and $287,500, a homebuyer would need to come up with between $33,660 and $57,500 just for a down payment. Then, there are closing costs to consider. These vary by state, but figure you'll pay over $2,000 on a $200,000 loan.

Saving up this money takes time and careful planning. The best way to start is by coming up with a budget that is realistic enough for you to stick with and by using other tips to help you get ahead financially.

The Budget

The only thing more challenging than setting up the budget is sticking with it over the long run. Using personal finance software will help you set it up, but only self-discipline and the desire for a new house will motivate you to stick with it.

First, you need to determine your total income from all sources. The second step is to list all the money that goes out every month, beginning with your fixed expenses. These include anything that has a fixed payment due every month, including:

Rent or mortgage (if you have a fixed rate).

Car payment.

Insurance.

Child support and alimony.

Installment loan payments.

Next, list your variable expenses. These may be a little more difficult to track, so you may want to document them over the course of a week or two on a chart such as the spreadsheet offered for free by a Canadian credit counseling service. Common variable expenses include:

Utilities.

Telephone.

Cable or satellite TV.

Anything you purchase on a daily basis (morning coffee, etc.).

Amy Fontinelle, writing at Investopedia, suggests that you track and update your budget daily so that nothing falls through the cracks.

Make Changes

Once you've used the budget for a month or two you'll be able to see where your money goes every week. This snapshot shows you where it's being wasted and, thus, where to make cuts. Any items cut from the budget mean more money to set aside for your house.

Some of these cutbacks might include bringing a lunch from home rather than hitting the café every day, riding your bike to work instead of driving or taking a cab, and using coupons to save money.

Make More Money

Cutting your budget expenditures and paying down debt aren't the only ways to move more quickly down the road toward homeownership. Finding ways to bring in more money gives your plan a turbo boost.

If you can take on overtime hours at work, do it. Consider holding a garage sale or selling unused items online. Sock away that extra cash for your down payment.

Savings

If you're like a lot of us, you may be tempted to use the money you're saving for something else that comes along. To avoid the temptation, put it in an online savings account that makes it difficult to withdraw. If you have to wait a few days for the money, you may think twice about withdrawing it.

As you build your savings, avoid the urge to add to your debt. There will be plenty of time after you buy the house to buy furniture, a car or whatever else you might be thinking of purchasing. Keep that house you want top-of-mind to motivate yourself to stay out of debt and continue saving.

The Season is a great lifestyle is Boca Raton - Florida

By Sergio Lucena PA

The Season is great gated family friendly community in Boca Raton on over 80 acres of tropical paradise. Beautifully manicured and designed, Seasons meet the standard of any people that wants to live in a affluent luxurious community in the heart of Boca Raton. Located on the southwest corner of Jog Road and Clint Moore Road, Seasons offers a wonderful living with the most discerning requirements and great amenities. 

Built in 1989, there are 255 homes in Seasons ranging in size from just under 2,800 square feet to just over 6,000 square feet. Buyers can choose between a single level home or a two story home within the community. Many homes were custom built with unique features, by the best architectural offices in Boca Raton. The homes in this community have been renovated and including granite countertops, wood or marble flooring, top of line appliances, crown molding throughout, walk-in closets, impact glass, and private master suites. Seasons residents enjoy outdoor entertaining in their beautiful oversized backyards featuring private resort-style pools, oversized shaded pool decks, children’s playgrounds, and fully-stocked summer kitchens. Enjoy spectacular views of oversized lakes, mature trees, and colorful plantings found throughout the community. The man gated24-hour security. Home prices in Seasons range in price from $600,000s to over $1.5 million.

This Community is known for its award-winning tennis club, Seasons features 8 clay tennis courts, a full-time seasoned pro, and a tennis pro shop. Also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, party room, pool, children’s playground, basketball court, and multi-purpose room.

www.FindhomesInBocaRaton.com

Designing Backyard Shade Structures

In the midst of summer's sweltering heat, nothing provides relief like having a shady spot for relaxing. Backyard shade structures also help keep your outdoor furniture from fading.

If you want to add a shade structure to your yard, explore the variety of options available and customize the design based on your needs.

Design Considerations

How do you envision your backyard retreat? Here are some factors to consider:

Location: If you wish to erect a shade structure that relies on flat ground, select an area that needs little leveling to reduce labor. Look at your backyard and consider the amount of work necessary to prepare the ground. Also consider the height of the structure and any obstructions. Nearby trees or fences may limit your options. Never build or plant anything that may interfere with underground structures and utilities, such as a septic tank, plumbing lines and buried cables. (Call 811 to request assistance.)

Shade Level - Spend some time in your backyard, observing the amount of sun and shade available at various times of the day. In areas of intense sunlight you may want a more solid structure, and in hot climates you may desire greater yard coverage or shade attached to the house. In other areas you may want limited shade and materials that provide partial sunlight.

Climate - Consider the weather when designing your backyard shade structure. In northern areas that receive a lot of snow, a flat roof won't hold up well. In areas of high winds, other choices may not be sturdy. Think of how your selection will resist the sun, rain, snow and wind in your area.

Intended Use - Choose a shade structure that best fits all the uses you envision. Pool areas don't require much shade, for instance, so umbrellas, shrubs and vine-covered structures may fit best, while a covered patio where you wish to barbecue needs to allow smoke and odors to rapidly dissipate. Also consider young children, pets, and elderly users when selecting and designing your shade structure.

Your Budget - One of the most important steps when planning any home project is drawing up a budget. Without a budget, it's easy to spend more than you want to. Use your budget to help guide your shade structure selection. Factor in the cost of labor if this is not a DIY project.

Choosing a Shade Structure

You might be amazed at the variety of shade structures available. Depending on your personal style, you can choose:

Shrubs and Trees - The original shade structure, they also help purify the air. Keep in mind that as they grow the shade will increase.

Awnings and Screens - Choose between retractable awnings that connect to the house or removable ones attached to a permanent frame. Retractable models may also be electric and employ sun or wind sensors. Screens work well around patios and enclosures.

Shade Sails - Like large, colorful sails on a sailboat, shade sails anchor to the house and other support structures. Make your own version with canvas and grommets if preferred. These are easily customizable.

Trellises and Pergolas - Choose ladder-like trellises or even pergolas – monkey bar-like structures made of beams – to marry a structure with vines and other greenery.

Gazebos and Ramadas - A stand-alone structure, a covered gazebo may feature seating and other options. Ramadas are typically square or rectangular with open sides.

No matter what you decide on, try sketching your design first. If this is a DIY project, make a list of materials needed based on your plans. Research the project and check to see how to anchor it properly. Always determine what, if any, building codes apply to your installation and if building permits are required. Visit your local building authority for further information.

Swimming Pools: Do They Add Value or Turn Buyers Off?

Swimming Pools: Do They Add Value or Turn Buyers Off?

Sparkling blue water, especially when it's lit up at night – what's not to love about a swimming pool in your backyard? If you have one, you may feel blessed. If you don't, and are considering adding one, hang on a minute.

Who Wants a Pool?

According to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, middle-aged buyers with teenagers at home comprise the biggest market segment for homes with swimming pools. This makes sense when you consider how dangerous an unfenced pool is for families with toddlers.

Another segment of homebuyers who may find a pool desirable are younger couples who entertain frequently. There has been a lot of emphasis over the past few years on outdoor entertainment areas, including outdoor kitchens, fire pits, fireplaces and seating areas. A swimming pool frequently figures into these plans.

Location Always Counts

"Location, location, location" may just be a trite real estate mantra, but it is important nonetheless. If you live in Hawaii, Florida or the Southwest, a pool is far more in demand than for homes in Minnesota, Alaska or North Dakota.

Then, drill down your location even further. Even if you live in the desert climate of the Southwest, if there's a community pool a block away, installing a pool at home may be a waste of money. On the other hand, if your neighbors all have pools, you should probably consider putting one in.

How Big is Your Lot?

Lot size is a huge factor in deciding whether or not to have a swimming pool installed. Remember, if you have a small lot and the pool takes up the entire backyard, you are removing your home from consideration by buyers with small children and buyers who garden or entertain. Pet owners and young families typically want grassy areas where their pets and kids can play safely. Many seniors like to putter in the yard. If there is no room for any backyard activity other than swimming, you narrow the buyer field dramatically.

What is the Home's Value Right Now?

One of the most important factors to consider when thinking about adding a pool as a home improvement project is to not over-improve for the neighborhood. If you own a modest tract home in a neighborhood of similar homes, a pool may be overkill. The value of your home can only rise to that of the most expensive home in the area.

Owners of luxury homes in higher-priced neighborhoods with roomy backyards that appeal to buyers looking for a certain lifestyle may be able to justify the expense of installing a swimming pool. In fact, if you own a luxury home without a pool, you may lose buyers.

Type and Condition of the Pool

It should probably go without saying: If the pool is in poor condition or dirty, it will not add value to the home. If the pool is outdated, it won't add value. If the pool hasn't been maintained, the appraiser may even deduct from the home's value, according to Tim Page, owner of Appraisals by Page in Spokane, Washington. He suggests that if your pool is of the above-ground variety, it is considered personal property and it won't factor into the home's value. Be that as it may, if it is in poor condition it may turn off buyers, so take it down.

Factor in the Ongoing Cost of a Pool

Ongoing home maintenance costs are a turn-off for many buyers, and a pool may be a maintenance nightmare for them. Aside from the cost of pool installation, ongoing maintenance tasks such as heating and cleaning the pool, as well as the ongoing cost of a swimming pool, may be prohibitive to many buyers.

Does a Pool Add Value?

Most real estate agents will tell you that pools do not add value to a home, and for the most part this is true. What value a pool may add is small – typically about 8 percent of the home's value, according to the National Association of Realtors® National Center for Real Estate Research. The margin of increase is larger for homes in the southern U.S., Florida and Hawaii.

The decision to install a swimming pool should be based on your personal lifestyle and desire, not whether it will add value to the home.

Convey Health hiring 500 workers in Deerfield Beach

Deerfield Beach Florida 

August 21, 2015 in 

(Sun Sentinel) Convey Health Solutions is hiring 500 workers in Deerfield to enroll people in Medicare. Convey, based in Fort Lauderdale, has leased 50,000 square feet at 2200 SW 10th St., according to CBRE, a commercial real estate brokerage.

The company is hiring enrollment and customer-service workers for Medicare enrollment, which takes place between October and March, said Stephanie Jones, Convey’s general manager for Medicare Part D.

“Our business is highly cyclical. Between October and March, we have to staff up our labor pool,” Jones said.

Convey provides technology solutions to clients that offer Medicare prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage Plans, and other benefit plans.

The company has started training workers for the Deerfield Beach jobs but still has open positions, Jones said. For information, see conveyhs.com or call Convey human resources at 954-903-5000.

Convey has about 1,800 employees in South Florida and Fort Pierce, with offices in Sunrise and Miramar.

Built in 1996, the Deerfield Beach office property is owned by Fields Realty. It formerly was occupied by a mail-order pharmacy.

Palm Beach County: Home Sales Dropped to 38 Median Days on Market

Palm Beach County: Home Sales Dropped to 38 Median Days on Market

Year-over-year market statistics for July 2015 reported accelerated demand for single family homes in Palm Beach County. Closed sales rose 19.5 percent from 1,515 to 1,810 transactions, and median sale price rose 3.3 percent from $280,000 to $289,250. Meanwhile, median days on market dropped a significant 30.9 percent from 55 to 38 days. As for inventory levels, they continued to decline, down 6.7 percent from 7,246 to 6,761 active listings and down 21.6 percent from 5.7 to 4.5 months’ supply. The silver lining, however, was the 7.4 percent increase in new listings, meaning sellers have finally begun to seize their opportunities in this Seller’s market. 

“Home sales in Palm Beach County dropped to an impressive 38 median days on market with sellers obtaining an average of 94 percent of their original list price. If you are a looking to sell your home, the first step is to ask a local REALTOR® for a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA). Your REALTOR® will use this tool to help you determine the most effective original list price for your property,” said Matt Halperin, 2015 President of the Realtors® Association of the Palm Beaches (RAPB). 

For the townhouses/condos sector, we saw similar market indicators. Closed sales increased 24.8 percent from 1,054 to 1,315 transactions, and median sale price increased 12.8 percent from $128,500 to $145,000. Meanwhile, median days on market dropped 14.8 percent from 54 to 46 days. As for inventory levels, they continued to decline, down 7.3 percent from 5,919 to 5,484 active listings and down 9.5 percent from 5.2 to 4.7 months’ supply. We also saw a rise in new listings, albeit only a small 0.4 percent

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