Joanne Colangelo Realtor

09/02/2026

Is your children's artwork taking over your home? Here's how you can save their creative projects without creating clutter.

In the age of apps, there’s more to preserving the masterpieces your children create than just stick...

08/31/2026

In this video, I break down what actually drives your premium, and the three
property factors that matter most: roof age, flood zone designation, and
wind mitigation features.

If you're actively house hunting, I'm happy to walk you through what the
insurance picture might look like for a specific property before you put in an
offer. Just send me a message.

08/27/2026

Milestone inspections are a newer requirement in Florida, and they matter more than people realize when buying in an older condo building.

Buildings three stories or higher need one once they reach 30 years old, or 25 years if within three miles of the coast, then every 10 years after that. The inspection looks at structural integrity, load-bearing components, and any signs of deterioration.

For buyers, this can affect HOA reserve funds and future assessments, so it's worth asking about before you fall in love with a unit. It's less about the apartment itself and more about the building holding it up.

08/26/2026

Some interesting tips for reviewing your medical bills.

Scrutinizing a bill from your health care provider or insurer is probably one of the last things you...

08/24/2026

Thinking about buying a home? Here are a few smart strategies worth considering from day one.

Pre-approval should come before browsing, not after. HOA fees deserve the same attention as the mortgage payment, since they can shift the real monthly cost more than people expect. Confirming the flood zone early matters too, before you've already fallen for a place. Ask what's actually included, not just what's listed. Get to know the neighborhood as well as the home, since the right area matters just as much as the right house. And trust your research and your instincts, not every home is the right home.

08/22/2026

🌴 Boater, golfer, or beachgoer, South Florida has a neighborhood built around each lifestyle.

From Intracoastal towns with canal-front homes to golf communities and quieter oceanfront settings, the right fit depends on how you actually want to spend your time. A quick guide to which towns tend to fit which pace of living.

If you're exploring where to settle in South Florida, I'd be happy to talk it through.

08/20/2026

📊 List price and assessed value are two different numbers that often get mixed up.

List price reflects what a home is being offered for based on current market conditions and comparable sales. Assessed value, on the other hand, is set by the county for property tax purposes and follows its own valuation cycle, which is why the two numbers don't always line up.

A quick breakdown of what each one actually represents and why the gap can be larger than expected.

If you have questions about pricing or values in your area, feel free to reach out.

08/19/2026

Increasing your credit score takes time, but there are a few things you can do to quickly gain a few points.

Improving your credit can take time, often many months. But there are some things you can do to rais...

08/15/2026

What exactly is a Florida room?

It’s an enclosed living space designed to bring in plenty of natural light, often through large windows or glass doors. It can become an extra spot for relaxing, dining, entertaining, or enjoying the outdoor views from inside.

It’s one of those home features you may come across when exploring properties here in South Florida. ☀

08/13/2026

If you’re looking at waterfront property in South Florida, you may come across the phrase “no fixed bridges.”

Simply put, it means there are no fixed bridges along the route that would restrict a boat’s clearance when traveling toward open water.

For boat owners, it’s one of those details worth understanding when comparing waterfront properties.