Navigating the Real Estate Market: A Comprehensive Guide for Home Buyers with a Home to Sell

Navigating the Real Estate Market: A Comprehensive Guide for Home Buyers with a Home to Sell

Buying a new home while simultaneously selling your current one can initially seem like a daunting task. However, with the right planning and strategy, it can transform into a smooth and rewarding experience. In this detailed guide, we will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you feel confident and thoroughly prepared throughout your journey.

 1. Assess Your Financial Situation

Before diving into the home buying and selling process, gaining a clear understanding of your financial standing is crucial. Here are some steps to help you get started on the right foot:

Determine your budget: Calculate how much you can afford for your new home by considering your income, savings, and potential proceeds from the sale of your current home. This will help set realistic expectations.

Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Obtaining pre-approval will give you a clear idea of your borrowing capacity and make you a more attractive and credible buyer to sellers, potentially giving you an edge in the competitive market.

Consider bridge financing: If purchasing a new home before selling your current one is necessary, a bridge loan can provide temporary financial assistance, helping you to manage the transition smoothly.

2. Prepare Your Current Home for Sale

A well-prepared home can attract more buyers and potentially yield a higher sale price. Here’s how you can make your home market-ready and appealing:

Declutter and depersonalize: Remove personal items and excess clutter to create a neutral and inviting space for potential buyers to envision themselves living in.

Make necessary repairs: Address any obvious issues that could deter buyers, such as leaky faucets or cracked tiles, ensuring your home makes a positive impression.

Enhance curb appeal: First impressions matter significantly, so ensure your home's exterior is welcoming by maintaining the lawn, adding potted plants, or applying a fresh coat of paint to the front door.

3. I Will Be Your Real Estate Agent

A skilled real estate agent can be your greatest ally during this intricate process. I will:

Provide market insights: Help you understand current market trends and set a competitive price for your home, ensuring it stands out to potential buyers.

Coordinate buying and selling timelines: Assist in aligning the sale of your current home with the purchase of your new one, which can significantly reduce stress and financial strain.

Negotiate on your behalf: Work diligently to secure the best possible terms and conditions for both transactions, ensuring you get the most favorable outcome.

4. Create a Strategic Buying and Selling Plan

Timing is key when buying and selling simultaneously. Here’s how to create a seamless and effective plan:

List your home for sale first: This allows you to gauge interest and adjust your plans accordingly, providing flexibility in your buying journey.

Set contingencies: Consider including a contingency in your home purchase offer that depends on the successful sale of your current home, minimizing financial risks.

Be flexible with closing dates: Negotiate closing dates that allow you to transition smoothly between homes, reducing the need for temporary housing arrangements.

5. Stay Organized and Communicate

Throughout the process, staying organized and maintaining open communication is essential to success:

Keep track of paperwork: Use a checklist or digital organizer to manage important documents and deadlines, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

Regularly update your agent: Inform me of any changes in your situation or preferences to ensure I can best represent your interests and adjust strategies as needed.

Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on the progress of both transactions to avoid last-minute surprises and ensure a smoother overall experience.

Conclusion

Selling your home while buying a new one doesn't have to be overwhelming. With careful planning, the right team of professionals, and a strategic approach, you can successfully navigate the complex real estate market and find your dream home. Remember, patience and flexibility are key, and soon enough, you'll be settling into your new home with ease and confidence.

Priscilla Hammond Realtor

HomeSmart

Office 404-876-4901

Direct 678-378-9837

Navigating Property Sales After the Loss of a Loved One: A Comprehensive Guide

Dealing with the death of a loved one is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences in life. Amidst the emotional turmoil, the practical responsibilities, such as managing and selling the estate, can seem overwhelming. If you find yourself in this situation, know that you are not alone, and there are resources and professionals who can assist you through every step of the process.

In this blog post, we will explore the essential aspects of selling a property after losing a loved one, providing you with a roadmap to help simplify the process. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions that honor the memory of your loved one while also fulfilling your responsibilities. If you need personalized assistance, Priscilla Hammond with HomeSmart is ready to guide you with empathy and expertise. Feel free to reach out to her at 678-378-9837.

Understanding the Legal Framework

Probate Process

The first step in selling a property after a loved one's death is understanding whether the property needs to go through probate. Probate is a legal process that involves validating a will, settling debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful heirs.

When Probate is Necessary: Probate is typically required if the deceased person owned property solely in their name. However, if the property was jointly owned or held in a living trust, it may bypass probate.

Duration and Complexity: The probate process can vary in length and complexity depending on state laws, the size of the estate, and whether the deceased left a will.

Working with an Attorney

Given the intricacies of probate law, it may be beneficial to consult with an attorney who specializes in estate planning or probate. An attorney can guide you through the legal requirements and help ensure that the process is as smooth as possible.

Preparing the Property for Sale

Assessing the Property's Condition

Before listing the property for sale, it's crucial to assess its condition and determine whether any repairs or upgrades are necessary. Consider the following steps:

Inspection: Hire a professional inspector to evaluate the property's structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, and other critical components.

Repairs and Renovations: Decide whether to invest in repairs or renovations based on the inspection results and your budget. Focus on essential repairs that could significantly impact the property's value.

Decluttering and Staging

The emotional attachment to a loved one's belongings can make the process of decluttering challenging. However, creating a neutral, inviting space is essential for attracting potential buyers.

Decluttering Tips: Start with one room at a time, and consider hiring a professional organizer or asking for help from friends or family. Decide which items to keep, donate, or dispose of.

Staging the Home: Staging involves arranging furniture and decor to highlight the property's best features and create an appealing atmosphere. This step can enhance the property's marketability and help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.

Setting the Right Price

Determining the right price for the property is crucial to attracting buyers and ensuring a timely sale. Here are some factors to consider:

Market Analysis: I will prepare a comparative market analysis (CMA) to examine similar properties in the area that have recently sold. This data can help you set a competitive price.

Appraisal: Consider hiring a professional appraiser to provide an unbiased evaluation of the property's worth.

Emotional Considerations: It's natural to have emotional ties to the property, but it's important to approach pricing objectively. Overpricing can lead to extended time on the market, while underpricing could result in financial loss.

Marketing the Property

Creating a Compelling Listing

A well-crafted listing can significantly impact the property's visibility and attract potential buyers. Consider the following elements:

Professional Photography: High-quality photos are essential for showcasing the property's best features. I will hire a professional photographer with experience in real estate.

Writing a Descriptive Listing: Highlight the property's unique features, recent upgrades, and its appeal to prospective buyers. Be honest and transparent about the property's condition.

Utilizing Multiple Channels

To reach a broader audience, it's essential for me to market the property through various channels:

Online Listings: I'll use popular real estate websites, such as Zillow, Realtor.com, and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

Social Media: I'll also leverage platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to share the listing with your extended network.

Open Houses: Hosting open houses can provide potential buyers with an opportunity to experience the property firsthand.

Handling Offers and Negotiations

Once the property is listed, you may begin receiving offers from interested buyers. Here are some tips for navigating this stage:

Evaluating Offers: Consider both the offer price and any contingencies or conditions attached. An all-cash offer may be appealing, but it’s essential to weigh all factors.

Negotiation Strategies: Be prepared to negotiate to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. This may involve counteroffers or addressing specific buyer requests.

Closing the Sale

Understanding Closing Costs

Closing costs are expenses incurred during the finalization of a real estate transaction. These may include:

Title Insurance: Protects against any claims on the property’s title.

Attorney Fees: Costs associated with legal counsel during the sale.

Transfer Taxes: Taxes imposed by the state or local government on the transfer of property ownership.

Finalizing the Sale

The closing process involves signing the necessary documents to transfer ownership of the property to the buyer. Here’s what to expect:

Review Documents Carefully: Ensure all details are accurate before signing.

Transfer Ownership: Once all documents are signed and funds are exchanged, the property officially belongs to the new owner.

Emotional Considerations and Support

Coping with Grief

Selling a loved one’s property is not just a financial transaction—it’s an emotional journey. Here are some tips for managing grief during this process:

Allow Yourself Time: Grieving is a personal experience that takes time. Be patient with yourself and seek support when needed.

Seek Professional Help: Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support during this difficult time.

Enlisting Help from Family and Friends

Don’t hesitate to reach out to family and friends for assistance. Whether it’s helping with practical tasks or offering emotional support, having a support system can make a significant difference.

Conclusion

Selling a property after the loss of a loved one can be a daunting task, but with the right resources and support, it’s possible to navigate the process with confidence. Remember that you are not alone, and there are professionals who can help you every step of the way.

If you need expert guidance tailored to your unique situation, don’t hesitate to contact Priscilla Hammond with HomeSmart at 678-378-9837. Priscilla is committed to providing compassionate, personalized service to help you honor your loved one’s legacy while achieving your goals.

Navigating the Home Buyers & Sellers Market in Metro Atlanta & Metro Miami

 Your 2025 Guide to Buying and Selling with Confidence in Atlanta and Miami

Buying or selling a home is a major financial and emotional decision. Whether you’re a first-time buyer in the Metro Atlanta area, or a seller looking to maximize value in the Metro Miami region, understanding the local market dynamics, timing, pricing strategy and negotiation approach can make a big difference.

In this guide we’ll cover:

• The current market trends in Metro Atlanta and Metro Miami

• What buyers need to know to position themselves well

• What sellers need to focus on to maximize sale price

• Actionable steps for both groups to succeed in 2025

• Frequently asked questions by buyers & sellers in these regions

Let’s dive in.

1. Market Snapshot: Metro Atlanta

Key Trends & Data

• The Atlanta housing market is shifting — inventory is increasing, days on market are lengthening, and price growth is moderating. For example: as of June 2025 the number of homes for sale rose about 10.2 % month-over-month to nearly 9,400 in Atlanta. domoREALTY

• According to Redfin, the median sale price in Atlanta was about $374,950, down about 5.1 % year-over-year. Redfin

• Another source notes that median sales price in June 2025 for the metro was about $440,000, down about 2.2 % from the prior year, with inventory up ~36.8 %. Norada Real Estate

• Experts observe that Atlanta is now trending toward a buyer’s market (or at least a balanced market) after years of strong seller advantage. AJC+1

• Days to sell are increasing. For example, one report mentioned average days in market being 40+ in Atlanta, more in line with pre-2020 norms. Rough Draft Atlanta

What This Means for Buyers

• More choices: With inventory rising, buyers in Atlanta have somewhat more leverage than in the peak seller’s-market years.

• Time to act thoughtfully: Because homes are staying on market longer, there’s less frenzy but also more room for negotiation.

• Watch pricing carefully: Some homes are sitting longer or experiencing price reductions — so strong due-diligence is important.

• Mortgage & budget awareness: Even if market conditions ease, affordability remains a challenge; many buyers need a household income over $120,000 to reasonably afford the median home in the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell area. AJC

What This Means for Sellers

• Don’t rely on instant bidding wars: The “multiple offers above list” era has cooled; many sales are now below original list price. Axios

• Pricing strategy is critical: Properly pricing and staging your home for the current market is more important than ever to attract interest quickly.

• Marketing exposure matters: Since buyers have more options, sellers need to ensure strong presentation and maximum listing exposure.

• Prepare for longer sale timelines: Homes may spend more days on market than in recent years, so patience and flexibility help.

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2. Market Snapshot: Metro Miami

Key Trends & Data

• In Metro Miami, the housing market is also showing signs of cooling. For example: in September 2025 the median sale price was ~$605,000, down about 6.9 % from last year. Homes sold after an average of 114 days. Redfin

• Miami has emerged as a strong buyer’s market in 2025, with about 9.7 months of supply recorded, indicating more homes available relative to buyers. Norada Real Estate

• Inventory is up: one report noted the median list price in Miami was $510,000 (down ~4.7 % from 2024) while inventory rose ~35 %. Miami New Times

• Sellers in Florida are increasingly delisting homes rather than reducing price, which signals hesitancy to accept lower offers. NBC 6 South Florida+1

What This Means for Buyers

• Better negotiating position: With elevated inventory and longer market times, buyers in Miami may have more leverage than in the recent tight markets.

• Opportunity for discounts or incentives: Some sellers may be motivated to make concessions, reduce price or include extras.

• Keep an eye on specific sub-markets: While broad market is cooler, luxury and waterfront properties in Miami remain more resilient (and competitive) than average. Newsweek

• Secure financing early: With more options, being pre-approved and ready to act helps you stand out among other buyers.

What This Means for Sellers

• Expect more competition among sellers: With more inventory, each listing must be differentiated (pricing, staging, marketing) to attract buyer attention.

• Consider price reductions or incentives: In some cases, adjusting expectations may move the sale sooner rather than listing for longer hoping for a higher price.

• Focus on presenting exceptional value: Especially if you want to sell quickly, investing in curb-appeal, high quality photos, virtual tours etc can help.

• Have contingency plans: Given longer time to sell in many cases, plan for and budget the carrying costs (mortgage, taxes, maintenance) while your home is on market.

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3. Key Long-Tail Keyword Phrases to Use

When writing your blog, crafting your listing descriptions, or preparing content for your website, consider weaving in these long-tail keywords (which can help with SEO and attract targeted traffic):

• “buy a home in metro Atlanta 2025”

• “selling my house in metro Atlanta suburbs”

• “home buyers guide Atlanta Georgia metro”

• “metro Miami home sellers tips 2025”

• “buying property in Miami Florida 2025 market”

• “how to sell your home quickly in Miami metro area”

• “Atlanta house pricing trends 2025 buyer’s market”

• “Miami Florida real estate available homes buyer opportunities”

By naturally integrating these phrases into headings, sub-headings, image alt-text, and body copy, you increase relevance and potential ranking for those niche queries.

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4. Actionable Checklist for Home Buyers (Atlanta & Miami)

Here’s a step-by-step plan for buyers:

Step 1: Get Pre-Approved for Mortgage

• Before you seriously look at listings, speak to a lender to determine your budget, monthly payment range, credit score implications, down-payment options.

• Having a pre-approval letter strengthens your offer (especially in competitive pockets).

• In markets like Atlanta where budgets are tight, realistic affordability is key.

Step 2: Define Your Priorities & Needs

• Location: Are you looking in Atlanta suburbs (e.g., Alpharetta, Marietta) or within Atlanta city? In Miami, which neighborhoods appeal (Miami-Dade, Coral Gables, etc)?

• Home type: single-family, condo, townhouse?

• Features: school district, commute time, amenities, outdoor space, flood zone (especially relevant in Miami).

• Budget and contingency for maintenance/repairs.

Step 3: Monitor the Market & Inventory

• In Atlanta, note that inventory is rising and prices are stabilizing, so you may have more choices and some negotiating room.

• In Miami, while inventory is elevated and market is favorable to buyers, some segments (like luxury/waterfront) remain competitive — tailor your strategy accordingly.

• Use tools like MLS alerts, set up notifications for new listings in your target zip codes.

Step 4: Make a Strong Offer

• In markets trending toward buyer advantage, your offer still needs to be clean:

  • Submit with pre-approval

  • Limit contingencies when possible (while still protecting yourself)

  • Consider competitive earnest money

  • Be ready to move quickly; homes can still go fast in desirable zones.

• Factor in closing costs, inspections, potential repairs, and future resale value.

Step 5: Due Diligence & Inspect Thoroughly

• Especially in these transitional markets, some homes may stay longer or have subtle defects that were overlooked in the frenzy years.

• In Miami, check for flood risk, insurance cost, hurricane/storm protection.

• In Atlanta, as competition eases, you may have more time to inspect and negotiate repairs or credits.

Step 6: Close & Plan for the Future

• Be ready for post-closing expenses (maintenance, property taxes, HOA if applicable).

• Consider future resale value: in both metro Atlanta and metro Miami, aligning with neighborhoods expected to appreciate can matter long-term.

• Stay flexible: If rates drop, might you refinance? If market improves, when might you consider selling?

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5. Actionable Checklist for Home Sellers (Atlanta & Miami)

Here’s a roadmap for sellers:

Step 1: Understand Your Local Market Position

• Determine whether your home sits in a buyer-friendly, balanced, or still-competitive niche. In Atlanta, many areas are shifting toward the buyer side; in Miami, there are portions of the market with elevated supply.

• Pull recent comparable sales (within last 30-60 days) in your neighborhood, paying attention to days on market, list vs sold price.

Step 2: Price Strategically

• Pricing too high can lead to your home sitting longer, which may cause buyers to assume “something is wrong.”

• In Atlanta, homes are increasingly selling below asking price — around 59.3 % of homes in June 2025 sold below asking. Rocket

• In Miami, sellers who aren’t adjusting expectations may face delisting rather than sell. Realtor

• An optimal approach: set a price that invites interest, leaves some room for negotiation, but doesn’t overshoot realistic market value.

Step 3: Prepare the Home for Sale

• Invest in curb-appeal: clean landscaping, fresh paint, neat exterior.

• Declutter and stage key rooms (kitchen, living, master) to appeal broadly.

• Highlight local advantages: top schools (Atlanta suburbs), walkability or waterfront (Miami), tax advantages, community amenities.

• For Miami especially: address any hurricane/flood prepping features, insurance incentives, and show value beyond price.

Step 4: Market Aggressively

• Use professional photography, virtual tours.

• Make sure to list on major platforms and consider targeted local advertising.

• Emphasize “move-in ready,” “prime location,” or unique features (e.g., loft space, outdoor living, proximity to downtown Atlanta, or Miami waterfront).

• For SEO-rich online listings or blog posts, incorporate keywords like “sell your home in Atlanta Georgia 2025” or “Miami Florida home sellers market tips” in description, meta tags.

Step 5: Negotiate Smartly & Be Flexible

• Be open to offers and ready to act.

• In richer inventory situations (Miami or certain Atlanta suburbs) a buyer may request repair credits or ask for closing cost help — decide beforehand how much concession you’re willing to make.

• Keep a timeline in mind: your home being on the market longer can increase carrying costs and reduce perceived value.

Step 6: Close Smoothly & Transition

• Ensure all paperwork, disclosures, inspections etc are handled promptly.

• Aid buyer trust by being transparent on known issues.

• Plan your next move (buying another home, renting, relocating) ahead of time so you’re not stuck under pressure.

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6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is now a good time to buy a home in Metro Atlanta?
A: Yes — with increased inventory and stabilizing or slightly declining prices, buyers may have more leverage than in recent years. However affordability is still a challenge, and loan terms/interest rates should be considered carefully.

Q: Should I wait to sell my home in Miami until prices go back up?
A: That depends on your personal timeline and finances. While some parts of the Miami market are cooling, waiting may incur additional costs (maintenance, insurance, taxes). If you’re ready to move, proactively preparing and pricing your home right now may yield better outcomes than passively waiting.

Q: What neighborhoods in Atlanta are strong for future resale?
A: Suburbs with good school systems, access to transportation, and amenities (e.g., walkability, green spaces) tend to hold value. Even if pricing advantage exists now, long-term fundamentals matter.

Q: How much should I expect to negotiate when buying in Miami?
A: Given the elevated inventory and longer days on market, buyers may secure around 3-5 %+ below asking (or negotiate credits/incentives) depending on condition, location and seller motivation. Always have your contingencies and inspections in place.

Q: How can I make sure my blog or website ranks for “home buyers Atlanta” or “home sellers Miami”?
A: Use the long-tail keywords naturally inside your headings (H1, H2s), meta description, image alt-text, and body content. For example:

• “Buy a home in metro Atlanta 2025: complete buyer’s checklist”

• “How to sell your house in metro Miami Florida: 2025 market updates”
  Also link internally to other relevant blog posts, ensure mobile-friendly design, load speed, and want to earn backlinks (local real estate associations, community blogs, etc).

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7. Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re buying or selling in Metro Atlanta or Metro Miami, now is a strategic window. For buyers, there’s more room to negotiate and more listings from which to choose. For sellers, the urgency is on smart preparation and realistic pricing rather than relying on a hot market to carry you.

Next steps:

• If you’re a buyer: speak with a lender for pre-approval, identify your target neighborhoods, set up listing alerts, and work with a local agent who knows Metro Atlanta or Metro Miami.

• If you’re a seller: get a market-analysis for your home, plan any needed repairs/staging, price wisely, and market aggressively.

Feel free to reach out if you’d like a downloadable checklist, local neighborhood breakdown, or help crafting listing copy optimized for SEO in your region. I’m happy to assist!

• Priscilla Hammond Realtor, Real Estate Agent
  Certified Investor's Agent Specialist
  Accredited Buyer's Representative 
  HomeSmart Realty Office (404) 876-4901
  Direct (678) 378-9837

Before You Buy A House, Get Your Ducks In A Row

Before You Buy A House, Get Your Ducks In A Row

 

Not ready to buy now? That's not always a bad thing. It gives you time to get everything together. 

This information that I'm going to give you will benefit you so you can have everything you need prior to starting out on your home buying transaction.

INCOME

  First of all you need to get your proof of income together. That is your last three years tax returns and your last 6 months of check stubs if applicable. If you haven't filed this year's tax returns get advice from your loan officer first. Your annual household income will help you determine your purchasing power. In the average case a person can buy a house worth 3 times what their annual income is. For example if your annual household income is $150,000 then your purchasing power will be approximately a $450,000 house give or take, depending on your credit score and your debt to income ratio also known as DTI.

CREDIT

 Speaking of credit that's the second thing you need to have knowledge of. What your debt to income ratio is now and what it will be after you purchase a home. New lending requirements have lowered the debt to income ratio which will weaken your purchasing power. You might have to pay off a couple bills and I can refer you to my loan officer for more accurate information on that. You only need a 580 credit score to qualify for an FHA loan.

LOANS 

Speaking of loans, that is the other thing you need to have knowledge about. An FHA loan only requires a 3.5% down payment and a conventional loan can be anywhere from 5% to 20% for the down payment. So you need to have some money saved up for your down payment and 6 months of escrow, my loan officer can give you more details if you don't have one yet. There are FHA loan limits in Florida so click here to check for the county you want to live in.

AREA

Know the area you want to buy in. What are the home prices and do they match your home needs? What is most important to you- the area, the schools, the home, the proximity to attractions or shopping etc. Select your most important priorities and figure out what your deal-breakers are to save you and your real estate agent some time.

Buying a home isn't as difficult as it may seem if you have solid support and guidance along the way.

Priscilla Hammond Real Estate Agent

Desari Jabbar Realty Group

925 Main St #104, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Direct 678-378-1802
My real estate website

Happy home hunting!!

buy a home, buying a home, buy a house, home buyer tips, home buying guide

2BR 2BA Condo For Sale in the Renaissance of Pompano Beach

Yes this can be your new home!! Enjoy this tastefully remodeled northeast corner unit with ocean, canal and intracoastal views!! This unit is very spacious and has a renovated kitchen and bathrooms with lovely tile floors throughout. Two balconies with spectacular water views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal. Washer and dryer in the unit. Boutique building that is very well maintained and managed located across the street from golden sand beaches. Deeded 40-foot dock can be purchased for an additional $50,000 and a covered parking space can be purchased for an additional $30,000.

Located in the Renaissance of Pompano Beach condominium community the complex features a secured lobby, elevator, a billiards room, clubhouse, club room, community room, exercise room, extra storage, heated pool and hot tub.

The unit features fire sprinklers, walk-in closets, dishwasher, disposal, high impact Windows, high-impact glass, high impact doors and so much more come and see for yourself.

Listing provided courtesy of:

 Christian Duhaime 
Remax Consultants Realty 1
1625 South East 17th Street Causeway Fort Lauderdale Florida 33316.
And you can contact me for showings or more information

Priscilla Hammond

.Remax Consultants Realty 1
1625 South East 17th Street Causeway Fort Lauderdale Florida 33316

305.783.4269

 

1361 S. Ocean Blvd., 33062    google map | yahoo map

Bedrooms: 2

• Location: Ft Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, FL

• Post ID: 79253497 ftlauderdale

 

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