Author: Florida Real Estate News

Hillsborough School Tax Referendum: Optimism Amidst Skepticism As Florida’s Election Day approaches, the Hillsborough County education community is gearing up for another attempt at securing a property tax referendum essential for boosting teacher salaries and addressing critical staffing shortages. Rob Kriete, president of the Hillsborough Classroom Teachers Association, encapsulated the sentiment surrounding the referendum: “optimistic, but not confident.” What’s Being Proposed? The referendum seeks to establish a new property tax of $1 per $1,000 of assessed taxable value. This funding aims to provide: $6,000 raises for teachers and administrators. $3,000 raises for other school staff. This is a similar proposal…

Navigating America’s Housing Market: Facing Inflation and Economic Challenges Understanding the Current Landscape The U.S. housing market is contending with a myriad of challenges, including persistent inflation, geopolitical tensions, and a wealth-driven economy increasingly sensitive to fluctuations in equity markets. Investors are currently plagued by uncertainty, as they grapple with how to effectively price risk amid potential tariffs and their inflationary impacts. Key Issues Affecting Housing Affordability Affordability remains a pressing concern across various markets. Economic stability is increasingly reliant on a narrow pool of consumers; for instance, only 10% of earners account for over 50% of consumer spending. This…

Gasworx: Transforming Tampa’s Landscape with a Major Real Estate Venture Gasworx is set to become a landmark mixed-use development in Tampa, Florida, thanks to a collaboration between Washington D.C.-based real estate firm KETTLER Inc. and local entrepreneur Darryl Shaw. This joint venture will see substantial infrastructure and commercial enhancements, aiming to reshape urban living and workspaces in the city. Key Details About the Gasworx Development Location: Spanning 50 acres between Ybor City and the Channel District, Gasworx embraces the rich cultural tapestry of Tampa. Project Phase: Currently, construction is underway for Phase II, which is expected to complete by 2027.…

Discover Amelia Island: Florida’s Hidden Luxury Paradise A stunning transformation is unfolding in Florida’s northeastern corner, as Amelia Island evolves from a modest blue-collar community into a desirable luxury destination. Situated near the Georgia border, this 13-mile enclave boasts pristine white sandy beaches, majestic dunes, and a charming historic district adorned with Victorian mansions. The Allure of Amelia Island For years, Amelia Island was merely a sleepy coastal town where locals earned their livelihoods at paper mills. Today, it has emerged as one of Florida’s most coveted secrets, offering: Luxurious beachfront properties A vibrant, welcoming community Abundant public beach access…

Your Essential Guide for First-Time Homebuyers: A 10-Step Checklist Purchasing your first home is undeniably an exciting milestone. However, it can also feel daunting. This journey requires careful planning to avoid unnecessary costs, delays, and other complications. Use this 10-step checklist to navigate the process confidently. 1. Assess Your Financial Situation Before you even think about house-hunting, it’s crucial to evaluate your financial health. Check Your Credit Score: A higher score often leads to better mortgage rates. Reduce Existing Debt: Less debt boosts your borrowing power. Save for a Down Payment: Aim for at least 20% to minimize long-term interest.…

Festival Flea Market Mall in Pompano Beach Set to Close After Decades of Service The Festival Flea Market Mall in Pompano Beach, a beloved shopping destination for Broward County residents and beyond, is closing its doors after nearly four decades. Originally launched as the Pompano Outlet Mall in 1986, the marketplace was revitalized in 1991 as the Festival Flea Market Mall, transforming into a sprawling retail hub covering over 390,000 square feet. This diverse marketplace has long been a community staple, offering everything from jewelry and handbags to cigars, shoes, perfumes, and outdoor furniture. The End of an Era: Closure…

The Location of New Oceanfront Condos in South Florida As demand for Oceanfront Condos in South Florida continues to surge, prospective buyers are eager to explore the available options. While many may assume that these luxurious residences are widely accessible throughout the region, the truth is quite different. The inventory of Oceanfront Condos varies greatly by location, with a significant concentration in specific areas. Where Are the Majority of New Oceanfront Condos Found? Statistics show that over 90% of new and recently constructed Oceanfront Condos are primarily located in Miami-Dade County. The cities leading this trend include: Sunny Isles Beach…

Miniature Horses: The Pint-sized Companions Delivering Full-sized Fun Photo Courtesy of Stacy Furgang, DMV Miniature Horses (or "minis" as they’re affectionately called) are not just adorable; they are packed with personality, agility, and willpower. Although they are compact, typically standing up to 38 inches tall, these spirited equines offer a delightful entry into the equestrian world that starkly contrasts with larger breeds. Why Choose Miniature Horses? Personality Over Size Engagement: Miniature Horses deliver full-sized fun with their vibrant personalities and affectionate nature. Activities: Owners can participate in many activities typical of larger horses—minus riding. Ideal for Many Age Groups Gina…

Essential Tips for Selling Your Home When Moving Out of State Moving out of state can be a thrilling opportunity, but it often comes with challenging logistics, especially when it involves selling your current home. A well-crafted plan is essential to ensure a smooth transition and a successful sale. Here are some expert tips to guide you through the process. 1. Choose the Right REALTOR® Finding a REALTOR® with experience in long-distance sales is crucial. They can navigate the complexities of working with a seller who is not local. Aim for someone who is comfortable with electronic communication, as this…

Navigating Home Buying in 2025: New Construction vs. Resale Homes in Central Florida Embarking on a home-buying journey can be both exciting and overwhelming. With the real estate market continually evolving, homebuyers in Central Florida have an important choice to make in 2025: Should they opt for a new construction home or a resale property? Each option presents its unique benefits, which can significantly impact your lifestyle and financial goals. The Dilemma: New Construction vs. Resale Homes When considering new construction versus resale homes, it’s essential to understand the differences to make an informed decision. Here’s an overview of both…