I helped a customer of mine, Christine, purchase a townhome in Brandon last month and noticed that real estate has not changed in regards to the key factor of location. Location is still the number one factor that influences buying decisions. After driving around and looking at maintenance free homes in South Tampa she noticed the rental fees for luxury apartments in the area were very expensive. The 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartments in the area were renting for $1000 a month. Plus, these apartment homes were only 900 square feet! After seeing these prices Christine decided to make the 15 minute drive to take advantage of the excellent pricing in a different location. She purchased a 3 bedroom, 2 and ½ bath townhome with a 1 car garage for $150 dollars more a month. This home is also 1,540 square feet! Christine owns a bigger home for not much more money, plus she will benefit from the tax benefits of owning a home. The point I’m trying to make is that apartment management companies understand that the location of a home or apartment will determine the monthly price. The more open minded someone is to the location of their home more options they will have to choose from.