By Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate Broker in PensacolaAre we living in the most financially empowered era, or the most economically confused? Despite more access to financial information than ever before, nearly half of American adults have lacked basic financial literacy for eight consecutive years. In 2024, that gap cost Americans over $243 billion, or roughly $1,015 per person, according to data from the Tax Foundation and World Economic Forum.As a real estate broker serving Pensacola since 1995, I see firsthand how financial confusion affects everyday people. And it’s not just low-income households. Even higher earners can fall behind if they don’t understand the core concepts that drive personal finance and investment.Take the term “equity,” for example—the most misunde... 06/17/2025

Monthly Mortgage PaymentsEvery time you make a mortgage payment, a portion goes toward paying down your loan’s principal. Over time, this increases your equity and reduces your debt. Think of it as a forced savings plan that benefits you in the long run. Home AppreciationHistorically, real estate tends to appreciate in value over time. While markets can fluctuate, owning property in a growing community like Pensacola or Gulf Breeze often leads to increased home values. This appreciation adds to your equity — without you doing a thing! Refinance or Borrow Against EquityAs your equity grows, you can tap into it for things like home improvements, debt consolidation, education costs, or even buying another investment property. Done wisely, this can be a tool to multiply your wealth. Long-T... 06/18/2025

By Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate Broker Since 1995Purchasing a home in beautiful Pensacola is an exciting milestone, but as your trusted real estate broker, I believe in complete transparency to help you make the most informed decision. Beyond the listing price and mortgage payments, several hidden costs of homeownership can catch buyers off guard. Being prepared for these expenses is key to a smooth and financially sound transition into your new home.1. Closing Costs Expect to pay between 2% and 5% of the purchase price in closing costs. These include: Loan origination fees Title insurance and search fees Appraisal and home inspection fees Attorney fees (if applicable) Prepaid property taxes and homeowners' insurance I’ll help you estimate and prepare for these ahead of t... 06/16/2025

Q: How can I find a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) who is not associated with a brokerage house? I want truly independent advice, not advice that steers me toward selling securities. I especially want tax advice. Everyone I have called turned out to be associated with a brokerage house.   - Anonymous   There’s no surefire way to find a financial advisor who is the right fit. But there are a few important filters you can use to increase your odds.  Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWhat IS My Home Worth? How Much Home Do I Qualify For  The C-Note: Your Quick Guide to All Things Real EstateWelcome to The C-Note, the go-to source for everything real estate in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or managing rental properties, we’ve got you... 06/19/2025