SPOTLIGHT: Kate Schmidberger, Paralegal

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Name?

Kate Schmidberger

Title?

Paralegal

What is your favorite Florida neighborhood? Why?

My own neighborhood of Englewood, Florida!  It’s a small, sleepy, fishing town in SWFL, just a few miles from the beautiful Manasota Key.  There are almost NO chain restaurants, everything is still pretty affordable, and everybody is SO friendly!  Also, happy hour is encouraged any time of day, as long as the party is over by 9pm!

My other favorite area of Florida is Cape Coral, where I lived for a few years prior to coming to South Florida. There are so many beautiful homes, and they are much more affordable. Many are on canals that lead to lakes, rivers or even the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of bars and restaurants, and there’s always live music and great happy hours in town.

What do you like best about living in Florida?

• The Beaches
• Spectacular Weather (mostly)
• FOOD!

What is your favorite company/business/organization in town or nearby? Why? 

• Temple Street Eatery (amazing food)
• Ride Element spin studio (great classes if you really want to SWEAT)
• Radio-Active Records (no matter what type of music you enjoy, they have it on vinyl!)
• Chill’N (because they have NUTELLA ice cream!)

What are TWO TOP TIPS homebuyers should keep in mind when working with a title company? 

• Make sure to REALLY read your closing statement to look for hidden fees.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions – it’s your transaction and your money!

What advice do you have for anyone looking to buy or sell right now? 

It can be very stressful. Make sure to have somebody on your side! I’d seriously recommend hiring an attorney. I just sold my home, and I’m so thankful I had an attorney. I’m no novice to buying and selling homes, but this one wasn’t a smooth transaction.

What are some current trends/issues in the real estate world you find interesting?

I find it interesting that home prices have really risen, despite rising unemployment and financial and political uncertainty.

What is a myth about real estate?

That is is cheaper than renting. In the long run, I suppose it is. But, in the short term, it’s very expensive. Taxes, maintenance, insurance, costs to update… it adds up! Make sure you’re ready for the financial commitment!

Where are you from?

Jersey City, NJ

What is something no one knows about you?

I’m a brown belt in Karate.

What are your hobbies outside of work?

I collect vinyl records, I grow orchids and have won awards with the Fort Lauderdale Orchid society, I’m a huge Tampa Bay sports fan, and try to go to as many games as I can, despite the long drive.

What is your favorite indoor/outdoor activity?

Happy Hour! It happens rain or shine!

Where is your favorite place to eat?

Joe’s Stone Crabs

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? 

Speak another language.

What would you name the autobiography if your life? 

Under the Pulaski Skyway: The non-adventures of a frizzy-haired tomboy.

What three traits define you?

Bubbly, energetic, workhorse.

If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? 

Hire an attorney.

What would you be doing if you were not helping people buy or sell homes?

Flipping them! I’m very handy and hands on. The only thing that stopped me from going in that direction? My vertigo prevents me from getting up on a ladder.

Who is your role model? Why?

My dad. He was an immigrant from Cuba who worked 3 jobs when I was born. He was such a hard worker, and was able to move up in the world with nothing but a strong work ethic. He had no help from his parents, no college degree, no money, no hand-outs, and was basically a single dad. He retired last year as the COO of a mid-sized insurance firm. I’ve never had or could have more admiration for anybody.

If you could meet anyone living or dead, who would it be? Why?

John Morgan. I have so many questions!

What your TOP FIVE favorite movies – in no particular order?

• Grand Torino
• The Green Mile
• Titanic
• Pay It Forward
• Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey

What are your TOP FIVE favorite bands/artists/podcasts to listen to?

• Stone Temple Pilots
• Nine Inch Nails
• Thievery Corporation
• Pink Floyd
• Steely Dan

What book are you currently enjoying and would you recommend it? 

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close. Get the tissue box ready!

What would you most like to tell your younger self?

Life will turn out fine. Just keep pushing through.