Rick Buntenbach, Realtor

Rick Buntenbach, Realtor I have been selling Real Estate in Highlands County since 2013. I would love to talk.

Along with my wife, Whitney, we have successfully closed on the average 60+ properties each year, giving me many awards as a top agent.

Average Appliance Lifespan GuideGas Range/Stove: 15–19 yearsElectric Range/Stove: 13–16 yearsFreezer: 11–20 yearsRefrige...
05/07/2026

Average Appliance Lifespan Guide

Gas Range/Stove: 15–19 years
Electric Range/Stove: 13–16 years
Freezer: 11–20 yearsRefrigerator: 10–18 years
Dryer (Gas/Electric): 11–18 years
Washing Machine: 8–16 years
Dishwasher: 9–16 years
Microwave: 5–10 years
Garbage Disposal: 10–12 years

Key ConsiderationsRepair vs. Replace (50-50 Rule): If an appliance is more than 50% through its expected life and the repair costs more than 50% of a new unit, it is usually more cost-effective to replace it.Maintenance: Regularly cleaning refrigerator coils, cleaning dishwasher filters, and ensuring dryer vents are clear can significantly extend the life of the appliance.Usage: High-frequency usage, especially for washers, dryers, and disposals in larger households, can shorten their lifespan.Quality/Features: While higher-end models may offer better performance, complex electronic features can lead to faster failure rates compared to simpler models.

#!realestateagent

Spring gives weekend lakefront buyers in Highlands County a unique edge before summer demand heats up. 🌞Right now, inven...
05/01/2026

Spring gives weekend lakefront buyers in Highlands County a unique edge before summer demand heats up. 🌞

Right now, inventory expands just as sellers become more open to flexible negotiations and practical timelines. If you want the chance to actually compare a range of lakefront homes or second-home possibilities, this is when the market offers breathing room. You’ll have the opportunity to walk properties and spot outdoor details, like sun exposure, water access, and amenities, without battling the summer heat or a crowded field of buyers. 🌳

Choosing spring means there’s more room to discuss repairs or request sensible contract terms. That flexibility fades fast once peak season arrives. Plus, when a property closes before summer, you’re ahead on setup, whether for weekend escapes, family getaways, or setting up for rental season.

Unlocking tax relief can make retiring in Highlands County feel even more rewarding. 🏡Homestead exemptions in this area ...
05/01/2026

Unlocking tax relief can make retiring in Highlands County feel even more rewarding. 🏡

Homestead exemptions in this area lower the taxable value of your primary home before property taxes are calculated, helping retirees keep more of their savings each year. This benefit is just one piece of a straightforward, predictable tax system here. Property owners receive clear notices detailing their tax assessments, and the process for applying exemptions or appeals is transparent and accessible. 🌴

The structure also allows residents to benefit from early-payment discounts and provides fixed-rate assessments that don’t increase year to year, bringing peace of mind to anyone seeking long-term financial stability. For those interested in downsizing, picking up a lakefront retreat, or relocating for a quieter lifestyle, the local tax environment is designed to remove surprises and offer genuine savings. 💙

04/25/2026

Highlands County maintains a relatively low property tax amount compared to other Florida counties within the 85,000 to 200,000 population bracket, largely driven by lower median home values rather than just the millage rate itself.
Highlands County Comparison (Population ~112,000)
Highlands County has a median annual property tax payment of $1,603 with an effective tax rate of approximately 0.66%. Its millage rate for the 2025–2026 fiscal year was adopted at 7.6000 mills.
Below is how it compares to similarly populated Florida counties
Indian River
174,038 $2,647 0.66%
Citrus
173,511 $1,711 0.61%
Martin
167,342 $3,791 0.70%
Sumter
161,283 $3,039 0.74%
Flagler
144,436 $3,019 0.77%
Highlands
112,352 $1,603 0.66%
Nassau
109,266 $2,839 0.68%
Walton
96,480 $2,379 0.53%
HIGHLANDS COUNTY IS THE LOWEST!!!!

• Statewide Ranking: Highlands County was recently ranked 16th out of 67 Florida counties for the lowest overall tax burden.

04/24/2026

Choosing Florida for retirement means your income goes further, especially in Highlands County. 🏝️

With no state income tax, retirees here keep more of their investment returns, pensions, and portfolio gains. That freedom isn’t just on paper, it can change how you plan travel, home upgrades, or support family. For those with multiple income streams, the benefit stacks up over time, providing a financial cushion that’s hard to match elsewhere.

What sets Highlands County apart is its rural classification, unlocking extra state support for local services and infrastructure. 🚗🌳 Programs focused on housing and community improvements help maintain affordability, so buying a second home or downsizing lakeside feels less out of reach.

Whether you’re managing a mix of investment income or weighing the move for lakefront living, the tax-friendly environment here can have lasting effects on your long-term wealth. 🏡

Is avoiding state income tax part of your retirement plan? Tell me what matters most for your ideal retirement spot below.

Looking to keep more of your retirement income working for you? Here’s how Florida’s unique tax advantages open up real ...
04/23/2026

Looking to keep more of your retirement income working for you? Here’s how Florida’s unique tax advantages open up real possibilities for retirees. 💡

Florida stands out because it simply doesn’t tax state income, letting retirees in Highlands County hold onto more from investments, pensions, and various income streams. For anyone managing a portfolio or exploring second homes, this means more freedom to enjoy what you’ve earned, rather than watching it go to state coffers.

On top of that, Highlands County’s rural classification brings extra state support, think improved infrastructure and dedicated programs designed to make small-town living even more attractive. If your goal is to maximize the benefits of downsizing, upsizing, or picking a waterfront retreat, this area offers a setting where smart planning really pays off. 🏡🌴

Thinking about the next step in your retirement strategy? How would an income-friendly environment like this shape your plans? Share your thoughts below or tag someone who’s considering a Florida move!

Call me for more houses like this one
04/23/2026

Call me for more houses like this one

What a find! This home has so much to offer for the future owner. Three bedroom, two full baths, a living, dining and ki...
04/15/2026

What a find! This home has so much to offer for the future owner. Three bedroom, two full baths, a living, dining and kitchen with and enclosed rear porch with an added surprise of a hot tub/spa. Newer items include roof replaced in 2017, Whole house generator in 2022, (paid for) solar panels in 2024 (please contact LA for information regarding these), new tile flooring in 2022. In addition the home has accordian Hurricane shutters that are easily opened and locked with a key, a detached additional garage that can house a small car or use as a large shed. The home also contains furnishings, washer and dryer and an extra refrigerator. This home is located close to shopping and resturants. So much to offer a buyer and at a great price
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Looking for an inexpensive winter home or a full time residence? Look no futher! This home has so much to offer and upda...
04/11/2026

Looking for an inexpensive winter home or a full time residence? Look no futher! This home has so much to offer and updates galore. Don't let the age of the home fool you. Your taxes will be low but new items including updating the exterior to vinyl siding and rising the roof to a newer style. Windows and roof changed. New bathroom, flooring complete the picture. A huge laundry room is located off the living room. Outside you have 2 storage areas. The large 8 x 23 shed is set up as a workshop with benches. Most of the yard is fence. Quiet road and nice neighbors complete the picture.

Built in 2024. Almost brand new and it shows! Located in a sought after neighborhood with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 1 ca...
04/10/2026

Built in 2024. Almost brand new and it shows! Located in a sought after neighborhood with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 1 car garage. This area is close to everything yet has a quiet feel. The new owner will love the waterproof vinyl plank flooring and the white marbled tile in the bathrooms. Stainless steel appliances with granite counters show off the quality the builder put in the home. This home has a covered entry, as well as, a 12 x 12 concrete patio, great for BBQ's or lounging with that first cup of coffee. This home is the perfect size for any buyer that is looking for the part or full time residence. You will have everything almost brand new. No remodeling here.
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Address

809 US Highway 27 South
Sebring, FL
33870

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