The Journal
Real answers about South Florida real estate
Articles, guides, and market notes from Russell O'Brien, the Miami Realtor® who used to inspect the homes he now sells. New posts regularly on buying, selling, waterfront, condo fees, budgets, neighborhoods, and moving to Miami.
2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
What Different Budgets Buy in Miami-Dade Right Now
A field guide to the Miami-Dade market by budget tier: where entry-level, move-up, premium, and waterfront buyers tend to land, and how Russell compares the real options in each.
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2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Selling a Home in Miami: Price It Right, Prep It Right
Miami's market has more inventory than it did a few years ago, which means sellers need a sharper plan. How to price, prep, market, and negotiate your Miami home with an inspector's edge.
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2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Miami Condo HOA Fees and Special Assessments: What Buyers Miss
The HOA fee is not the whole story. Reserve funds, special assessments, and Florida's structural rules for high-rises decide what your condo really costs and how it resells.
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2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Buying Waterfront Property in Miami: Bay, Ocean, and Canal
Waterfront in Miami means very different things: oceanfront, bayfront, and canal homes each carry their own value, costs, and risks. Here is what to check before you buy on the water.
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2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
What to Look For During a Miami Home Inspection
A Miami home inspection is different from the rest of the country: humidity, hurricanes, and block construction change the checklist. Here is what Russell, a former inspector, tells buyers to watch.
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2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Miami Closing Costs: What Buyers and Sellers Actually Pay
Closing costs catch buyers and sellers by surprise when they are not planned for. Here is what the closing table in Miami typically includes and how to budget for it before you sign.
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2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
The Brickell Condo Buyer's Guide: Buildings, Fees, and Views
Brickell is Miami's most walkable condo market, but the building matters as much as the unit. A practical guide to HOA fees, reserves, views, insurance, and comparing towers before you offer.
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2026-09-29 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Buying a Home in Coral Gables: What to Know First
Coral Gables is one of Miami's most desirable addresses, and buying there rewards preparation. Here is what to know about the market, the design rules, and the homes before you make an offer.
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2026-09-15 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Moving to Miami: A Practical Guide to South Florida Neighborhoods
Relocating to Miami or South Florida? Start with these neighborhood comparisons, cost realities, and planning steps from Russell O'Brien, a REALTOR who helps newcomers land in the right community.
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2026-09-15 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Buying a Waterfront Home in South Florida: What to Know
From oceanfront towers to deep-water canal homes, South Florida waterfront real estate comes with extra costs and extra joy. Here is what buyers should understand before making an offer.
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2026-09-15 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Living in Brickell: Miami's Urban Waterfront Neighborhood
Brickell is Miami's financial district and one of its most walkable neighborhoods. Here is what condo buyers should know about lifestyle, buildings, and the market before they make an offer.
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2026-09-15 · Russell O'Brien, REALTOR®
Why a Home Inspection Matters When You Buy in South Florida
Russell O'Brien is both a REALTOR and a former professional home inspector. Here is how a thorough inspection protects your offer, your budget, and your peace of mind in the South Florida market.
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