Home Price Appreciation
How can I improve the value of my property?
Outside of a home owner's control, the biggest factor is market conditions. Other important issues are:
- condition of the property
- specific home improvements
- neighborhood stability and safety
The greatest rise in home prices occurs when the economy is strong and the number of home sales is increasing. Specific home improvements can increase the value above the cost of the improvements.
- remodeled bathroom returns, 81 percent to the owner
- bathroom addition, 89 percent
- master bedroom suite, 82 percent
Remember, quality pays. Well-planned and well-executed remodeling jobs are a good investment while bad work seldom enhances value or livability. The safety and security of a neighborhood can affect property values, too. If you live in a high-crime area, an organized community watch program not only will lower the crime rate but give home values a boost, too.
How can I increase the value of my property?
Specific home improvements can increase your property value above the cost of the improvements themselves, such as remodeling a kitchen, adding a bathroom, or upgrading landscaping. Just be sure that quality pays with remodeling. A bad remodeling job will do little to boost your property value. If you live in a high-crime area, an organized community watch program not only will lower the crime rate but can enhance property values, too. It also helps to live in an area where other homeowners are upgrading their homes, which can help pull up your property value, too. The bottom line is to measure the cost of any improvements you want to make against the overall values in your neighborhood. If you over improve for the neighborhood, you may not necessarily recover your costs or boost your property value significantly.
Will buying a bigger home increase my profit?
Consider these questions before making a choice between adding on to an existing home or moving up in the market to a bigger house:
- How much money is available, either from cash reserves or through a home improvement loan, to remodel the current house?
- How much additional space is required? Would the foundation support a second floor or does the lot have room to expand on the ground level?
- What do local zoning and building ordinances permit?
- How much equity already exists in the property?
- Are there affordable properties for sale that would satisfy housing needs?
- Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual needs, the extent of work involved and what will add the most value.
How do I find out how much my home is worth?
A comparative market analysis and an appraisal are the standard methods for determining a home's value. Your REALTOR® will be able to provide a comparative market analysis, an informal estimate of value based on comparable sales in the neighborhood. Be sure you get listing prices of current homes on the market as well as those that have sold. You also can research this yourself by checking on recent sales in public records. Be sure that you are researching properties that are similar in size, construction and location. This information is not only available at your local recorder's or assessor's office but also through private companies and on the Internet. An appraisal, which generally costs $300 to $500 to perform, is a certified appraiser's opinion of the value of a home at any given time. Appraisers review numerous factors including recent comparable sales, location, square footage and construction quality.
What are the differences between market value and appraised value?
The appraised value of a house is a certified appraiser's opinion of the worth of a home at a given point in time. Lenders require appraisals as part of the loan application process; fees range from $300 to $500. Market value is what price the house will bring at a given point in time. A comparative market analysis is an informal estimate of market value, based on sales of comparable properties, performed by a real estate agent or broker. Either an appraisal or a comparative market analysis is the most accurate way to determine what your home is worth.
Testimonials
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Debbie helped my family to find our dream home! We were very picky buyers and her patience with us really went a long way. She found the answer to any question we had, she got an immediate appointment for any house we wanted to see, and drove out of her way to help us whenever we needed it. She always steered us in the right direction as she knows far more than we did about real estate. I will never use any other REALTOR®! She is the best in the business and knows how to get you what you want!
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- Kathryn Masvidal
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Debbie was just so capable in what she was doing. She had knowledge of all my needs especially where I was out of state.
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- Barbara Hagan
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Debbie Deeb, has been the only Realtor I have had the pleasure of working with. When I wanted to buy property. Debbie is dedicated to her profession, and always finds the property that you are looking for. I am always happy to call Debbie with all my property needs.
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- Eileen Hall
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Debbie is extremely knowledgeable about the St. Petersburg real estate market and was able to help us find a very suitable property that met our needs. She's very contentious and worked hard to ensure that our highest priorities were met. It is with the utmost confidence that we recommend Debbie.
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- Hulmut Gfatter
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Debbie works hard to find properties that will meet your criteria. She knows the area well and really knows what to look for in terms of potential deal-breakers.
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- Mr. & Mrs. Joseph G. Jordan
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Debbie possesses several very important qualities: First, she is extremely knowledgeable regarding her profession. Second, she has a passion for taking care of her Customer/Clients. Third, see #2. Thanks for all the wonderful help, Debbie!
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- Steve Garskof
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My wife and I have sold and purchased homes using Debbie Deeb as our REALTOR®. She is very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, helpful, hard working and friendly. She will leave no stone unturned in your search for a buyer or a property to buy. We highly recommend her, and we have referred her clients whenever we have the opportunity.
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- David Folkenflik
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Deb is the best realtor! This is the second time we have worked together and I would recommend her to anyone especially if they don’t know the area. She gets it done! Happy client :)
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- Kimberly Maldonado
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Working with Debbie Deeb was truly one of the best decisions I made during the process of purchasing my first home. As a first-time homebuyer, I had a lot to learn, and Debbie guided me every step of the way with patience, professionalism, and exceptional communication. She was always responsive, honest, and genuinely had my best interests at heart. Debbie pointed out things I never would have thought to look for, including potential permitting issues and other costly problems that could have turned into major headaches after closing. Thanks to her attention to detail and expertise, I felt confident making informed decisions throughout the process. What has impressed me the most is that Debbie's support didn't end at closing. She continues to answer my questions promptly and kindly, offering guidance whenever I need it. It's clear that she truly cares about her clients and wants them to succeed long after the transaction is complete. I couldn't have asked for a better Realtor for my first home purchase. If you're looking for someone who is knowledgeable, trustworthy, communicative, and genuinely invested in her clients, I wholeheartedly recommend Debbie Deeb. She exceeded every expectation, and I am incredibly grateful for all of her help.
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- Jenna Jordan
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Debbie was amazing to work with! She was professional, personable and always there when we needed her. She found us our dream home in an insane market. We will forever be thankful for her guidance and ability to secure us this beautiful place!
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- Kimberly Maldonado
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We first met Debbie in March of 2012 when she brought prospective buyers to our home, which was for sale. When the buyers decided to buy our condo, Debbie quickly sprang into action. Not only did she take care of her client's needs to get the deal closed in record time, she was always there to answer questions we had about the sale (and she wasn't even our REALTOR®). We were very impressed with Debbie's upbeat attitude, professionalism, and her friendly way of dealing with ALL people, not just her clients. There was never a question of who we would use to help us find our current home. And that she did . . . we couldn't believe how hard she worked to get the deal done. She just doesn't stop until the "Fat Lady Sings". We would not dream of using any other REALTOR®. Trust us, Debbie knows her trade . . . she is the "best of the best".
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- Gail and Del Rau
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I was a For Sale by Owner when my offer fell through and I hired Debbie to list my property and get it sold. She was able to bring me an offer within 30 days of my listing date and we closed the deal the next month. She is a professional who can get the job done and now she is my friend. Thanks Debbie!
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- Bettie Ralston
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This is the fourth home that Debbie Deeb has helped me list or sell and she never ceases to amaze me! She is so knowledgeable and thorough in every aspect of the home buying/selling process. She makes sure to explain the process, makes you aware of deadlines, and answers all questions very promptly. You can always trust her to tell you the truth, even if it isn't the answer you want. I have recommended her to family and friends and will continue to do so!!
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- Natasha Copeland, Seminole, FL
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We would not work with any other realtor in the St.Pete area. She meets all of the requirements of a great, professional, knowledgeable agent.
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- Ron & Linda Thompson
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Debbie always seems to match seller and buyer for positive results.
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- David Kaufman
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We had to bring my mother to our home in another state due to health reasons. We decided to sell her home in Florida as we didn't want to rent it and we wanted to use the proceeds for her future care. I called Debbie Deeb, who sold our home for us five years prior. Trust is very important, and I trust Debbie Deeb and Berkshire Hathaway. After seeing the property, she gave us the best market plan and information we needed. We decided to sell the property "as is" rather than use up my mother's savings to upgrade it. Her knowledge of the market and area was spot-on, and she kept our best interests in line. We had an offer within 2 weeks of the house being on the market! Closing and getting paperwork done in a timely manner from another state was a concern of mine, but Debbie and Lori made it easy and kept me informed every step of the way. I can highly recommend Debbie Deeb and the team at Berkshire Hathaway in St. Petersburg for buying or selling your home and property.
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- Diana Hester, Barberton Ohio
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Debbie is an absolute professional. She guided us through the purchase of our house handling all the details. I would highly recommend Debbie Deeb and her group to handle any real estate needs. Thank you Deb!
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Debbie did a fantastic job helping me sell my home. There were many challenges and Debbie guided me through them all to get to closing.
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- Cheryl Lynn Royal
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I am a Senior Loan Originator with Vandyk Mortgage and I have 17 years of local lending knowledge. I have been working with Debbie for several years on many purchase transactions for her valued clients. Debbie is the most ethical and professional Realtor I have had the opportunity to work with. She always does the right thing for her clients, Always! Her communication skills and problem solving skills set her apart. I truly wish I could work with more realtors just like Debbie!
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- Sean Moore
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As a first time homebuyer, the process of buying a home felt completely daunting and esoteric to me. Deb truly parts clouds on a daily basis, and is equal parts affable and intelligent. She makes the process understandable, and is a zealous advocate for her clients. I could not be any happier/luckier to have Deb as my realtor.
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- Matthew Livesay
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Knew agent for years and saw the hours and work she put in to be successful with this agency.
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- Steven Stewart
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We tried to sell our condo through another REALTOR® for two years. It became futile. We then got in touch with Debbie and she took us on with quite a few ideas and a lot of hard work on her part. This was in 2009 when the realty market started to fall. Debbie worked very hard and our place finally sold in 2010. We thank Debbie in many ways; her hard work her knowledge of real estate and her wonderful friendship. She is an asset to hold onto.
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- Ned & Jean Cosmo
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Debbie Deeb is a true professional REALTOR® and she is a dedicated individual who provides exceptional service to her satisfied customers.
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- Beth Hernandez
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I selected Deb to help us find our current home 3 years ago based on her qualifications. We love the house more now than we did even when we bought it. Honest - that is Deb. Thanks again.
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- Sam Fraser
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Debbie’s is a remarkable Realtor Very much aware of her clients needs,in all aspects aware of what needs to be done. Very lucky to have her to help me with the selling of my condo. Great job.Debbie. I have your business card. I will share it with other people.
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- Lina Medeiros Turano
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Debbie Deeb not only assisted with the purchase of 2 of my parent's homes but she just recently assisted myself and my fiancé buying our first home together. Debbie is honest, patient and down to earth and will always do what's best for you as a buyer. She is someone my family has trusted over the years and that I wouldn't hesitate referring to any friends or family members needing assistance in either buying or selling. She is also someone who will not stop assisting you even after you close on a home. Anytime you need a referral, she will help you out with a contact. Thank you, Debbie!
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- Cathy Kwiatkowski
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Debbie was the most knowledgeable, accommodating, detailed REALTOR® that helped us find the right place, at a fair price, all while meeting our criteria. Debbie was not a pushy person, understood our parameters, and when all said and done, we made a good choice. Debbie was masterful with assisting in closing, especially when we were miles away. Would recommend Debbie to anyone who is in need of housing.
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- Hank Dymerski
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Debbie was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. She covered all the details quickly and efficiently. I loved working with her
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- Linda N. Todd
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Debbie clearly goes the extra mile. She was sending me listed houses based on my specific criteria months in advance of my house hunting trip that allowed me to educate myself on the area and variety of houses typically available. On that trip she organized the visit to maximize my time and while my objective on the trip was originally to get a better feel for the area and houses available I wound up putting in an offer that culminated in my purchasing one on that 5 day trip. Her knowledge, expertise and experience are a cut above the standard realtor.
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- James L. Wiesner
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Fantastic experience
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- Todd Darrin Jaeblon
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I’ve had a wonderful experience working Debbie Deeb. She is very professional and keeps to her word on what she tells you, unlike the experiences I have had with some realtors in the past. So I would highly recommend Debbie for all your real estate needs.
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- Jim Schmit
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Debbie Deeb is a consummate professional - and goes above and beyond with EVERY client - regardless of the size of the sale! She is a rare breed in any industry with a true commitment to exemplary service, to listening to her clients and working round the clock to make the clients' dreams become reality. She is amazing with both local clients and with out of state - AND OUT of COUNTRY clients - she wows them every time! You truly have a friend, an advocate and an expert with Debbie as your champion! No one better! Ten Thumbs Up!!!!
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- Laurie F
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Debbie Deeb made the whole buying and selling of our homes a pleasant experience all the way around.
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- Susan Elliott, Bailey's Bluff
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Great, thank you. Debbie Deeb has done a fine job for me. I didn't know what to expect from a buyers agent other than representing me not the seller. Debbie has the experience and knowledge that I needed in unfamiliar surroundings. Debbie kept me up to date on what the next step in the process would be and watched out for me. No negative issues at all.
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- Peter Ilacqua
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Debbie is excellent. We would never buy or sell a property without her again. Her knowledge, expertise, professionalism and dedication are second to no one. We are extremely fortunate to have Debbie as our agent. Thank you Debbie !
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- Joseph A. and Jennifer S. Daum
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Four years ago we were on holiday in St Pete and about 5pm just as the office was closing we went in and met the wonderful Debbie. Although it was closing time we felt it was not a problem for Debbie to stay on as long as we needed. We live overseas and wanted to find a condo within 3-4 days and close the deal before leaving. Needless, to say Debbie had the deal wrapped up within a week. We have since not only remained clients but we consider Debbie a friend. If we have a problem or need answers to any Real Estate issues we always call on Debbie she continues to look after you long after the sale is complete. She is the best in the business and we highly recommend her.
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- Laurel and Terry Palmer
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Debbie Deeb was looking out for our best interest when purchasing our home. She pointed out several items to take into consideration when buying a home and what we should be looking out for. We had been looking for over two years, trying not to get frustrated, the inventory was low and we were concentrating in only a few select areas. She had been patient with us and in the end really came through with her negotiating skills. I was impressed how she negotiated with the agent in having the seller fix inspection problems that would fail insurance coverage. We placed an offer and closed three weeks later, the process went very smooth. Thanks Debbie!
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- Bridget, Clearwater
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Excellent service and communication through the entire process!! Thank you Debbie Deeb!!
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Debbie Deeb is without a doubt the best realtor I have ever worked with. Alway on top of the transactions and very easy to get touch with, unlike some others I have used in the past. I would recommend Debbie and her group to anyone that's in need of her services.
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- JIM SCHMIT
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Debbie Deeb did an outstanding job with the sale of our property. She knows the real-estate market and is an expert in all aspects of real-estate sales. She was always available when we had questions and kept us informed regarding all the details of the listing, showings, offers and closing. She understood our needs and was a pleasure to work with. She helped us with aspects of the closing we didn't understand and looked out for our best interests. I would definitely use her again and would highly recommend her to family, friends and anyone else in need of a realtor. DEBBIE DEEB IS THE BEST!
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- Len Faulkner, St. Petersburg
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Outstanding 5 Star realtor. There is no substitute.
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- Terence O'Malley
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Debbie Deeb knows the real estate business and did a great job pricing my condo. She did not hesitate to find answers to questions that came up during the process of selling. I would highly recommend her if you want to buy or sell.
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- Linda Wathen
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In a word: Phenomenal. Debbie is an absolute gem and made what can be a pretty stressful experience into an easy going but extremely efficient process. She communicated through out the entire process, introduced us to her local pool of professionals and made me laugh on many occasions and she definitely understands and remembers that we are families moving into new homes and helped us feel welcomed. It is critical that you find a great real estate agent and we exceeded this by finding the best. Thank you Debbie! Lili and I are forever grateful.
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- Michael Barry Enos and Li Li
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This is the fourth home that Debbie Deeb has helped me list or sell and she never ceases to amaze me! She is so knowledgeable and thorough in every aspect of the home buying/selling process. She makes sure to explain the process, makes you aware of deadlines, and answers all questions very promptly. You can always trust her to tell you the truth, even if it isn't the answer you want. I have recommended her to family and friends and will continue to do so!!
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- Natasha L & Robert S Copeland
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Debbie Deeb was fantastic in every respect. She truly went above and beyond in her services. She will be handling all of my real estate needs in the future. Thank you Debbie!
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- Anthony J Schweiger
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My wife and I came to St Pete looking for a second home. We travelled from Boston and really hadn't a clue about the area other than what we were told by friends and relatives, one of whom suggested we contact Debbie. I'll make a long story short. If I were to make a list of my top ten people in my 62 years with whom I did business, not only would Debbie be on that list, she'd be near the top! If you want a bright, honest, patient, well-versed, real human being, who has your best interest......call her. 5 stars!!!!!! Thanks Debbie....really.
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- Jack & Judy Kezner
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Debbie Deeb really delivers anticipatory service. She promptly answered my many questions and took all the guess work out of my selling my home. She was a calming influence for me as well, seeing I was pretty anxious about the whole selling process. I am very grateful for her super professional demeanor and expert service.
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- Maria L. Meyers
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I want to thank you for your outstanding professional performance in executing the sale of our property in St. Petersburg. Both Nadezhda and myself would recommend you highly to any buyer or seller who want to get the job DONE! Unfortunately there are too many people out there claiming "lady luck" results......
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- Nadezhda & Stephan Phillips
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Once in a while, someone comes along who just naturally makes everyone feel a little happier. Debbie Deeb has been that someone to me. Debbie has walked me through the maze of searching, finding, and ultimately purchasing my dream home. She has held my hand every step of the way and has continued to help me by referring very qualified individuals for minor repairs. I feel comfortable calling her at all hours. There is no one else I would ever consider for future real estate needs.. Thank you, Debbie, for all you have done and continue to do for me. .
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- Marie Monique Descent
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Deb was a great realtor. I can't recommend her enough. As an agent she is very sharp, astute. Knows a lot about the area, and has a large ecosystem of providers who can help you get things done, inspected, fixed, etc. She is personable and quickly becomes family.
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- Aidaliz Maldonado
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All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.
Updated on September 11, 2026 9:07 PM UTC
