Pensacola Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.hansenteampensacola.com/blog/Copyright HansenTeamPensacola.com2022-10-11T10:35:36-07:00tag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:31680Outlook of Interest Rates for 2023Multiple factors have come into play concerning the commercial real estate market in 2023; which include, but are not limited to, supply chain disruptions and inflation. Even though the outlook for the real estate market appears to be grim, experts believe that there will be positives to go along with the negatives in 2023. The Federal Reserve has increased interest rates during the summer season in 2022, but that should not sound the alarm for any long-term doom and gloom.
To get more insight on how interest rates could affect the real estate market in 2023, we need to understand how interest rates have any impact at all on this market.
The Impact of Interest Rates
Interest rates are always changing on a daily basis, and most of the time there is no way of knowing which direction they will go until after the fact. Keep in mind that interest rates do not have a direct impact on the price of a house. Here is one example: Interest rates may increase by 0.3% today, but then for the next three days straight those rates will drop by 0.1%.
No matter how minor the fluctuations are in interest rates, the price of a house that was put up for sale last week may stand firm at its original selling price of $300,000. However, when interest rates are changed dramatically, the general affordability of housing is impacted. If you had enough money to buy a home around the price of $300,000, you may be put into a position where you can only afford homes in the price range of $250,000 to $275,000.
2022 saw interest rates raised at least twice courtesy of the Federal Reserve’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC). The FOMC has stated that it is likely for Americans to see more increases throughout the remainder of the year.
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How Rates Change Real Estate
Whenever interest rates increase or decrease, or if they remain static, it basically results in adjustments being made to the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy. If interest rates decrease, then that means the affordability of houses increases, which also means happier potential homeowners. If you qualified for a $300,000 home on the market at an earlier time, you may soon qualify for a $350,000 home should interest rates decrease. Demand in the housing market tends to grow when the interest rates are lowered, although lower rates can also be a reason why housing prices have increased throughout most of the country.
However, when interest rates are raised, affordability is negatively effected. If a buyer previously qualified for a $350,000 mortgage at the end of one year, that buyer may now only qualify for a $327,000 mortgage due to raised interest rates. When interest rates are raised, some potential buyers may see themselves priced out of the market.
The third side of this story happens to be static interest rates, which hinge on whatever the current economic environment is like. Do not assume that static interest rates uphold the status quo in the market, because that is rarely ever the case. Unlike interest rates, housing prices and activity do not stagnate when the FOMC upholds its monetary position. For most of the last decade the FOMC has kept its rate below 1%. Consider that immediately after the FOMC slashed rates during the Great Recession in 2008, housing prices in many parts of the country trended downward due to the market crash.
What the Numbers Say
Capital Economics projects that home prices will decline around 5% by the middle of 2023. The firm does not expect a complete crash in the market, as its current projections call for values to quickly rebound and post an annualized increase of 3% by 2024.
According to the <a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/MSPUS">Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis</a>, the median selling price of American homes was an estimated $428,700 through the first quarter of 2022.
One group that does economic research and surveys, called Capital Markets, says that housing prices will drop in 2023. This is partially due to increasing inflation in the economy, as the interest rates of loans, which is the general cost of borrowing a loan, will increase. The end result of increased loan rates is that much fewer people will be able or willing to apply for loans. This explains why the cost of buying homes will steadily decrease.
Capital Markets also states that the number of visits to real estate property websites have decreased in 2022, and that trend is expected to continue in 2023. This can be viewed as a clear indication that the housing market is turning, and the solution is to typically lower house and home costs to compensate.
Seller activity is positioned to increase in 2023 because sellers have more of a willingness to sell their properties. Perhaps one of the reasons for this is inflation, but on the flip side, buyers may remain reluctant to buy property due to the combination of higher interest rates and the added difficulty to obtain loans.
Investment firm <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/articles/1106505/why-we-expect-the-fed-to-cut-interest-rates-in-2023">Morningstar</a> takes an optimistic stance as they believe that interest rates could potentially fall to 1.75% by the end of 2023. Morningstar expects inflation will slow down and the Federal Reserve will reduce rates. The broad expectation is that economic inflation will reverse course, and that deflation will occur by the end of 2023. Morningstar concludes in their report that while there may be a more delayed recovery in economic activity, there is reason to be optimistic about long-run GDP growth.
First-Time Buyers Will Have Challenges
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It is also important to consider that the number of houses that are being put on the market has gone up in 2022. Many of these homes are in the expensive home category. While there are more choices for homes on the market now, first-time buyers will have challenges. These aforementioned homes in the expensive home category have seen their median value increase in the past year.
The increased seller activity coupled with buyer hesitancy can potentially lead to what is called a “housing glut”, which is already being experienced in some parts of the United States in regards to renting space. In summary, there will be more houses available for sale and rent than the number of potential buyers willing to invest in such properties.
There may be a decreased demand for houses because of issues relating to affordability, but the market is currently positioned to continue being competitive. Zillow says the main reason for this is those who want to upgrade by getting a better house will help keep the market competitive. Although the housing market is slowing down, in their <a href="https://www.zillow.com/research/zillow-home-value-and-sales-forecast-august-2022-31346/">regularly updated forecasts</a>, Zillow expects to see a 2.4% increase in the value of the average American home through the end of July 2023.
Rising Mortgage Rates Will Slow
The <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/">National Association of Realtors (NAR)</a> predicts that the 30-year average mortgage in 2023 will be in range between 5% and 5.5% throughout most of the coming year. According to the NAR’s chief economist Lawrence Yun, the mortgage market has already taken into account all the possible rate hikes imposed by the FOMC, and that mortgage rates are expected to stabilize around the 5.5% mark entering 2023.
Any concerns that mortgage rates will skyrocket are generally not shared by the majority of mortgage industry experts. That includes the <a href="https://www.mba.org/news-and-research/newsroom/news/2022/07/28/mortgage-applications-payments-rise-to-1897-in-may">Mortgage Bankers Association</a>, which expects rates to average around 4.8% by the end of 2022 and to decrease to around 4.6% by 2024.
The MBA also reports that its Purchase Applications Payment Index (PAPI) has seen fluctuations in 2022. If the PAPI increases, then that indicates declining borrower affordability conditions, which means that the mortgage payment to income ratio (PIR) will be higher due to increasing application loan amounts, any decreases in earnings, or rising mortgage rates. According to the MBA’s research, the top five states with the highest PAPI were Idaho (264.2), Nevada (254.6), Arizona (240.2), Utah (217.3), and Florida (211.6).
However, if the PAPI decreases, then that indicates borrower affordability conditions have improved. This happens whenever application amounts decrease, mortgage rates decrease, or if there is an increase in earnings. The one district and four states that had the lowest PAPI were Washington, D.C. (103.1), Connecticut (108.2), Alaska (115.4), West Virginia (118.5), and Louisiana (119.0).
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Conclusion
It is important to pay close attention to what groups, such as professional economists and investment firms, are saying when they make predictions on interest rate changes. However, they can be, and have previously, been proven wrong. If you take American futures markets into account, which handles contracts between home buyers and sellers, then their <a href="https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/1-u-interest-rates-peak-185800172.html">report that interest rates will peak</a> in January 2023 will carry a lot of weight.
It is equally important to stay vigilant on your part as either a buyer or seller in the real estate market, and to be mindful of when, how, and why interest rates change. Having prior knowledge of such changes can play a role in making or breaking real estate sales, and can give you the necessary leverage during negotiations. After all, you should not have to pay more for your ideal home simply because of interest rate hikes if you can avoid the initial pitfalls. 2022-10-20T08:00:00-07:002022-10-11T10:35:36-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:31666Interior Décor Tips for a Cozy and Comfortable Home A home should be relaxing, comforting, and inviting to guests. The pictures in your favorite interior design magazine make it look almost impossible to achieve. But, with the right information, it is doable, even if you are not a professional designer.
A pinch of color here and a dash of texture there are all you really need to make your home feel more comfortable and inviting. The great thing is you can start the transformation with what you have. All you need is the right information on what goes with what, and where.
This post is for you if you feel your home needs an upgrade but are unsure where to start. Or, if you just moved to your new house and it feels plain and sterile with the basic builders paints and fixtures.
Read on to learn how to spice things.
Tips for a Cozy and Comfortable House
You can get your space feeling homey with just a few changes, even on a budget. The following tips can transform your home from the current situation you have, to a cozy abode that your guests may never want to leave.
1. Organize and Declutter
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The first step to a calm and relaxing atmosphere is decluttering. Too much information and overwhelm the mind, and the eyes can’t rest as they take it all in. This explains why some people can never rest if their house is disorganized, and full of unnecessary stuff.
Organize the kitchen island and coffee tables by removing dirty utensils and old magazines. Have a dedicated basket or alternative storage space for mail, magazines, flyers, and unpaid bills. Clean dishes as soon as you eat to avoid them piling up the sink.
Clutter also arises from pictures on the wall, trinkets, and decor pieces in every nook and cranny of the home. The pieces may be sentimental, but depending on how they are arranged, they may become a source of clutter. Take time to decide whether you need that piece on the wall. Is it adding to the overall design theme, or crowding it and bringing confusion?
Organize stuff you are currently not using. For instance, craft items you haven’t yet completed but are still holding on to. Or that frame you are yet to find the perfect picture for. Tidy up everything, and you will see how therapeutic a clean house can be.
2. Throw Pillows
Fluffy throw pillows are always inviting and make you want to curl up with your favorite book. Did you want to add personality and charm to your space? Get a variety of them, and you can instantly change the feel of any room.
Get throws in different sizes, patterns, colors, and shapes. Mix the fabric textures for additional depth. Have as many as you can comfortably place on the sofa, chairs, or bed. Four should be the minimum.
In addition to aesthetics, you can also use them to provide extra seating and alternative lounging on the floor—stack oversized throw pillows for your family and guests to enjoy.
3. Blankets for Extra Comfort
When you walk into a house and find the couch draped with soft blankets, you can’t help but feel at home. A faux fur chunky blanket is even more inviting, and adds texture to the space. You can do a lot with blankets, like mixing colors and textures. Colors such as black, taupe, charcoal grey, warm oranges, or mustard yellow look great in any room.
The back of the couch is not the only place you can have them. Arms of chairs or sofas are also an alternative. Fold thin blankets like cashmere lengthwise before draping; if they are too long, you can fold them in half. Another way of decorating using a blanket is draping it on the back of the seat and tucking it under the cushion.
If your pets love lying on the sofa, protect it with a blanket. Place them in a basket in the living room for easy reach. Try draping them over a small ladder, or dedicate a rack just for them.
4. Rugs for Every Room
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Rugs add warmth to every room and are especially useful during fall and winter. Stepping on the cold floor is no fun, and having a rug nearby is comforting. Rugs add personality to a room, and you can choose from the multitude that are available on the market. You can opt for pet-friendly, vintage, sisal rugs, or anything else that you like.
Ensure the rug is large enough to have it halfway under the furniture. Layer the rugs on a natural carpet for a more textured feel. Persian rugs over carpets are also a nice touch.
Play around with shapes to make it more interesting. Avoid using the same size rugs as they can create the illusion of a divided room.
Always use a liner to prevent rugs from slipping or creeping.
5. Lighting
Overhead lighting, especially fluorescent, can be cold, harsh, and uninviting. Choose soft lighting to transform your space. String lights are one way of creating warmth in your home. Have them over the mantle above the fireplace, or on low ceilings for maximum effect. Hanging them may be hard work, but the results are remarkable.
Another way to use lighting to make your house comfier is through table lamps. Floor lamps whose bases you can tuck under the sofa if you are limited on space are also a great option. They can make a room feel homey and give you another layer of lighting.
Another way to soften the lighting in your home is through dimmer switches. They can instantly transform a room from bright glare, to intimate and warm. All while giving you more control.
Candles are also an excellent way of softening the feel of a room. Think about the mood contrast between a candle-lit dinner, versus when someone flicks a bright overhead switch. Get them in different sizes and place them in various places around the home. Scented candles are even better as they help you relax.
6. Flowers and Plants
You can add color to any room by incorporating flowers and plants. Since plants are living, they help you feel relaxed and boost your mood due to the connection with nature. In addition, you feel calmer, stress melts, and fatigue evaporates just by being surrounded by plants.
Choose plants that won’t be a hassle to care for. They can be slightly expensive, but if you learn to propagate, you can multiply their numbers at no extra cost. Either by using the ones you have, or getting cuttings from friends and family. Ensure that you ask a trusted neighbor to help water them if you are away.
Fresh flowers can add scent and fragrance to your home. They also make your abode feel lived-in. Some people avoid them, saying they don’t last, but if you care for them properly, they can remain fresh for a long time. You need to place them in water and cut the stems regularly.
Pick exquisite vases and planters and ensure they blend in with your decor. Vases are available in so many different shapes, colors, and sizes so it shouldn't be hard to find something you like.
Faux flowers make a good alternative if you want to avoid fresh ones. Avoid the obviously fake ones and go for the more realistic options, although they will be more expensive.
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7. Warm Color Palette
Colors have a psychological effect on our moods and emotions. For instance, warm colors are comforting, while cool colors invoke calmness. Try to avoid bright neon colors, which bring too much energy and excitement.
When choosing the colors to use on your walls, home decor pieces, furniture, and upholstery, the 80/20 rule is an excellent place to start. 80% should be neutral and 20% warm. Warm colors include reds, oranges, and yellows. You can break this rule depending on the size of your home.
If the room you are decorating is on the smaller side, reduce the percentage of warm colors. The same goes for rooms that do not receive plenty of natural light. Too many warm colors, and it can start to look too dark. Larger homes can increase warm colors, but the key to a tastefully done interior is harmony between all the elements.
Even if your house is sizeable, overdoing it with warm colors could lead to boring monochromatic decor. The key is creating harmony in all the choices you make. For smaller rooms, you can paint the walls a neutral shade, such as ivory or creamy, and add warm accents on the throws, rugs, or furniture.
8. Add Texture
Every interior decor expert advises adding texture to any room as it adds depth. Increase the warmth of a room by using velvet, Mongolian lamb, faux fur, chenille, and mohair fabrics. Use them on the throws and blankets.
You can add texture to the kitchen and bathrooms by replacing stainless steel fixtures with rubbed oil bronze ones, which makes the room feel less sterile. Also, you can swap metal barstools with fabric upholstered ones. A rug on the area infront of the kitchen sink adds warmth to the room and makes it more inviting.
You can add texture to your interior decor by using window treatments. Choose warm-colored shades, or heavy drapery curtains for added depth. They make the room feel inviting.
9. Accentuate the Fireplace
You can decorate the mantle above the fireplace with vases, mirrors, artwork, or pictures. Any pieces placed there will become the central piece of your entire decor. Use them to pull the room together. Or you can make the fireplace the focal point of your decor as it is already an inviting and comfy piece.
How you decorate your home determines how cozy and comforting it feels. Organize for a clutter-free space and follow the tips above, even if you are on a budget, to make your home more inviting to guests. Balance is key to amazing interior decor, so, in your choices, ensure you maintain harmony.2022-10-06T07:30:00-07:002022-10-11T10:33:18-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:31661The Benefits of Proper Landscaping and Care on a House's ValueThe majority of us are undoubtedly drawn outside to enjoy nature, even though most of us spend a lot of our time indoors. The sun, lush grass, lovely flowers, alluring scents, and animals all contribute to the outdoors' calming and reviving influence. Huge numbers of people purchase homes each year. Many choose houses that make money, but fail to make an impression. Getting the highest price for a house is the aim of the task of selling one. However, one of the most neglected aspects of household maintenance is making sure that your home's lawn is perfectly maintained.
Benefits of Landscaping
Consider the multitude of benefits you can realize from adding unique landscaping to your home, regardless of whether you're looking to add some vegetation, flower beds, water features, or other modifications to your garden or commercial property. Mostly, those who purchase a property only do interior improvements without a thought towards the landscape layout. The main benefits of adding landscaping to your homes are:
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1. It Creates Uniqueness and Style
Planting cover crops and some flowers on the front lawn don't need much creativity. However, you will stand out if your property has a carefully considered landscape plan that is blooming and well-kept. It might be precisely what a buyer who is contemplating their options needs to help them make up their mind. Your home can stand, out and gain value, if a lovely outdoor setting is created.
2. Improved Landscaping Can Speed Up the Selling Process
For many reasons, a home with excellent landscaping can help you sell your property more quickly. The outside of a home is often neglected by homeowners, despite the fact that first impressions matter more than anything else. The beautiful landscaping at your house will instantly showcase to prospective buyers the thought you have put into creating, and maintaining a beautiful place. They'll probably assume that the same care you put into keeping your home outdoors looking nice, also applies to its interior. You draw in more perspective buyers when you commit to giving your home's exterior a little stylistic touch.
Additionally, homes that sell fast typically garner a higher price than those that sit on the market for a while. A home with beautiful landscaping stands out from the competitors, and makes a positive impression on potential buyers. Preventive outdoor management indicates that you performed repairs to your house's interior and exterior before they became concerns, which will cause the prospective buyer minimal issue in the future. The more you can ease a buyer's concerns, the better, as purchasing a home is the biggest investment someone will embark on.
3. Landscaping is a Fascinating Activity
Deploying more time in landscaping can become a fascinating activity. People with carefully structured gardens are frequently seen relaxing there, caring for the trees & shrubs, and making changes periodically. Landscaping helps you to be active and productive. You can also grow your favourite flowers so you can breathe in their enticing scent.
4. Landscaping Makes One Feel Good
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People feel good in gardens that are properly developed. Returning home to a lawn filled with flowers, fresh air, trees, and roses gazing longingly at you is heartwarming. Gardening around your house can boost your living standard, awareness, alleviate stress, as well as improve your quality of life. Landscaping also assists in reducing heat stress in metropolitan areas.
For instance, just looking at trees and shrubs has been said to help lower blood pressure. Even in the center of a city, walking in a natural setting helps with attention and memory. People living in areas with community parks and gardens experience lower levels of stress, as well as cheaper healthcare costs. Your brain and your entire body will greatly benefit from the pure oxygen that green plants emit.
5. Landscaping Boosts the Value of a Property
A property with a good landscaping design has a considerable profit margin advantage over one without a landscape. Based on the level of landscaping, and the homes original worth, this benefit varies from 6% to 13%. This sums up into a significant raise in value of $18,000 to $40,000 for a $500,000 property. However, landscaping your property goes beyond just planting a few flowers here and there. Buyers prioritize a maintained design in their landscape requirements.
The number of plants used in the landscaping layout is inconsequential, but still an important component. Buyers have the impression that the landscape has been properly maintained throughout the years, when it possesses large and mature plants. It is a sign that the property owner has taken good care of the garden, and home buyers tend to find that appealing.
6. A Beautiful Landscape Improves Attractiveness
A well-designed landscape gives the strong impression that a house is well-maintained to people, neighbours, and, most importantly, potential buyers. Additionally, it adds to the neighbourhood's uniqueness. A neighbourhood with well-kept lawns gives off the sense of wealth and stability, which draws in new residents. By having one of the best looking houses on the block, the attractiveness of your home can only boost the valuation in the eyes of potential buyers.
Planning the Landscaping
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You can take several different actions to beautify your landscape and increase the selling price, if you intend to sell your home. Cutting sharp, well-defined lines around the lawn and using mulch gives the garden a polished look, as does creating definite edges around your flower beds.
Also, begin periodic fertilizer applications on your yard; you want prospective buyers to see a luscious lawn, not a tattered pattern. Use flowers to provide splashes of colour; buy some vibrant herbaceous plants for a few dollars each, and be prepared to spend a few hundred dollars on larger perennials and bushes, so that your garden doesn't appear neglected, even if it is. The lack of a well-thought-out plan is the biggest landscaping faux pas that homeowners make.
Poor landscaping presents an untidy appearance that scares away buyers. Before you start landscaping, make a plan. Even if you don't have the funds to engage a landscape designer, or are unwilling to pay the money, at the very least create a master blueprint for your lawn, and try to follow it.
Care on House Values
You already know, as a prudent homeowner, that regular house maintenance is the greatest way to save time and money on major renovations. But did you also know that by prioritising routine home repair, you're boosting the value of your house as a whole? You might not give much thought to your home's value, yet for the majority of individuals, selling their property is a key component of their retirement.
Because of this, proactive home care is essential for keeping your house in good shape, as well as for ensuring that you get the best price when you plan to sell. You should start thinking of home maintenance as an asset, and a crucial component of your financial security in retirement.
Thorough, prompt house repairs can not only assist you in maintaining your home's present real value, but it can also raise it by around 1% yearly. Home maintenance is a terrific approach to enhance the profit you can get when retiring and selling your property, if you consider your home to be part of your pension benefits. In this situation, increasing the money you'll need to reach your retirement goals will depend, in part, on the impact that maintenance has on the value of your property.
Taking Care of Trees and Hardscapes
Many homeowners neglect to take care of their trees. However, trees contribute greatly to our residential landscape. For example, trees offer shelter, lovely greenery, warmth, and in some cases even fruit and flowers. Therefore, it's crucial to take the essential actions to maintain the health of the trees in your yard and gardens. By doing this, you can enjoy the benefits of a lovely backyard for several years to come:
1. Keep the Wellness of Your Garden Trees at its Best
Trees can improve the appearance of your backyard, offer a habitat for small animals, and help in partitioning up your garden into distinct zones to create a great outdoor living area.
2. Make a Border to Surround and Support the Trunk
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Maintaining a tree is important because if grass and other vegetation are allowed to grow up to a tree's trunk, the tree may struggle for nutrients, water, and air. It is crucial to keep a barrier around tree trunks because of this. By enclosing tree trunks in mulch or stones, you can give those boundaries an attractive appearance.
3. Ensure Proper Tree Pruning
It can be appealing to let trees grow unchecked and never give them any care. That makes sense, especially if you desire big, branched trees in your landscape. However, your trees' strength and structure can be affected by not trimming them. It could also produce branches with poor shape which can cause other potential issues.
If you are aware about the importance of landscaping and need a landscape designer to improve the appearance of your property, The <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">Hansen Team</a> Landscape Design can help you. They will assist you in making your idealized concept of landscape a reality. We're here to assist you! The professionals at <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">Hansen</a> know how to turn your house into the neighbourhood's admiration. A trial will definitely convince you!2022-09-22T08:00:00-07:002022-10-11T10:30:41-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:30172Lower Grand Lagoon: Intriguing Tourist AttractionIntriguing tourist attractions will have plenty of things to offer for an overall beneficial living experience. When traveling through the Florida Panhandle you will realize just how valuable Lower Grand Lagoon is in this regard. While this is a small, quiet town that is tucked away behind larger communities, Lower Grand Lagoon has its own fair share of benefits that will make potential future residents feel right at home.
General Summary
Recognized as a census-designated place (CDP) in Bay County, Florida, Lower Grand Lagoon is a small town with an estimated population of 4,074 residents. According to <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/lower-grand-lagoon-bay-fl/">Niche</a>, Lower Grand Lagoon receives a B overall grade, and it ranks as the 6th best place to live in all of Bay County. According to <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/lower+grand+lagoon-fl/">Areavibes</a>, it has an overall Livability Score of 77 and a modest C+ grade in the Cost of Living category.
The median home value in Lower Grand Lagoon is $218,300, which is $11,500 below the national average. The median rent price for a home in this town is $971 which is only $125 below the national average. When it comes to either renting or owning a property, most of Lower Grand Lagoon residents own their homes outright, making up 64% of the population. The remaining 36% pay rent for their property.
Diversity
When reviewing the statistics for the population of this small town, it should be of no surprise that Lower Grand Lagoon predominantly consists of older citizens who are enjoying their time in retirement. Niche gives Lower Grand Lagoon a B+ grade in the Diversity category, which is based on both ethnic and economic diversity. The combined age demographic of citizens from the ages of 45 to 65 years and older make up 60% of the population. Adults in the age range between 25 and 44 years make up a combined 25% of the population.
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What To Do in Lower Grand Lagoon
Located along the outskirts of Panama City Beach, Lower Grand Lagoon is an ideal place to go if you plan on doing fun activities. In particular, one of the best activities you could be doing in an area that gives you access to the Gulf of Mexico would be taking a fishing trip on the open seas. Thomas Drive is one of the premier streets in Lower Grand Lagoon, and this street has a fishing charter that you can’t miss, which is called <a href="https://jubileefishing.com/">Jubilee Deep Sea Fishing</a>.
Jubilee will take you and your family on a spacious double-deck party boat for either a half or full day of fishing on the gulf. You can schedule trips at a minimum of 4 to 5 hours per person, and there are plenty of hours to choose from during the day. Jubilee’s charter boat rides are available from 7:00 am to 12:00 Noon, 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm, and 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. All boats managed by Jubilee will allow you to bring small coolers on board, and an on-deck snack bar will be provided, so you can take breakfast, lunch, and brunch snack breaks.
Staying on Thomas Drive would be ideal as you will also discover a way to train underwater for diving adventures. <a href="https://panamacitydiving.com/">Panama City Diving</a> gives you the chance to learn how to properly be a scuba diver as classes will be provided for those who love snorkeling and want to take it to the next level. Panama City Diving also teaches Technical Scuba Diving, which involves deeper, longer, and more overhead forms of scuba diving. Charter boat rides are also offered, giving you the chance to learn how to spearfish. Basic tips are given on how to spearfish like a pro while you will be closely supervised.
Also located on Thomas Drive is a restaurant that lets you relax and enjoy the beach environment while you sit and dine. That restaurant would be <a href="https://www.finnsgrub.com/">Finns Island Style Grub</a>. Established in 2009, Finns has been dedicated to keeping the dining experience small, fresh and simple. Finns serves breakfast and brunch and provides special accommodations for coffee enthusiasts with a barista bar.
The Breakfast Burrito contains eggs, cheese, rice, black beans, pico, valentina and white sauce. Another great breakfast meal at Finns would be Banana Pancakes, which are three pancakes cooked with bananas and maple syrup on the side. Meals on the main menu include the Fish Taco, Chop Burrito, and the Burrito Bowl.
One of the main staples Lower Grand Lagoon has when it comes to attractions would be <a href="https://www.floridastateparks.org/index.php/parks-and-trails/st-andrews-state-park">St. Andrews State Park</a>, which serves as one connecting point between Lower and Upper Grand Lagoon. Turning off Thomas Drive, you will encounter an abundance of beach and forest terrain that is beautiful to behold. St. Andrews State Park is kid-friendly and features amenities that are accessible for the whole family. The park has a 2-mile paved road that is perfect for a leisure bike ride.
You can also go to this park to go birding, take shuttle boat tours, and make reservations to go camping. You can also go fishing along the shores of the gulf, but a Florida saltwater fishing license is required. With the help of a GPS device, you can even go geocaching throughout St. Andrews State Park.
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Education
When it comes to education levels, Lower Grand Lagoon remains on par with the rest of the state of Florida and the country. The majority of the town’s citizens have completed 8th grade, which amounts to 89.2%. This figure is 5.2% above the Florida state average and 4.9% above the national average. The majority of Lower Grand Lagoon have also completed all of high school, which amounts to 88.8%. This figure is 5.8% above both the Florida state average and the national average.
67% of residents have completed some form of college, which is 9% above the Florida state average and 7.6% above the national average. 38.2% of residents have obtained an associate’s degree, which is 0.8% above the Florida state average and just 0.3% below the national average. 29.5% of residents have obtained a bachelor’s degree, which is 1.8% above the Florida state average and just 0.8% below the national average.
According to Niche, there are a total of 17 public schools in the Lower Grand Lagoon area. Out of these 17 schools, 7 have received A- grades. The public school receiving the highest grade would be the North Bay Haven Charter Academy High School, which has received an A grade. North Bay Charter Academy ranks as the 78th best public high school in the state of Florida.
Employment
Opportunities for employment in Lower Grand Lagoon are available and show considerable promise. Combining the averages between Niche and Areavibes, the median household income of Lower Grand Lagoon residents is $52,287, which is $3,387 above the Florida state average and $7,813 below the national average of $60,158. The income per capita for residents is $32,098, which is $4,500 above the Florida state average and $2,269 (8%) above the national average.
If you consider working in Lower Grand Lagoon, you will be pleased to know that its unemployment rate is very low. The local unemployment rate is 3.1%, which is an impressive 33% below the national average. The poverty level in Lower Grand Lagoon is 14.7%, which is 1.4% below the Florida state average and 0.4% below the national average.
Regarding the difference in income between homeowners and renters, owners make a larger income than renters. The median income by a homeowner in Lower Grand Lagoon is $57,147, which is $2,062 below the Florida state average and $13,439 below the national average. The median income made by a renter is $31,726, which is $2,896 below the Florida state average and $3,466 below the national average.
The median earnings by male employees in Lower Grand Lagoon is $28,942, which is $2,502 below the Florida state average and $7,977 below the national average. The median earnings by female employees is $23,542, which is $1,790 below the Florida state average and $2,708 below the national average.
When examining median earnings by income bracket, there appears to be ample opportunities for both male and female employees in Lower Grand Lagoon to make a sufficient living. A combined 53.2% of female employees have an income range between under $10,000 and $25,000. A combined 66.8% of male employees have an income range between $10,000 and $65,000.
When it comes to industry type, there are a few preferences among Lower Grand Lagoon residents. 12.1% of male employees work in the wholesale and retail services industry. 7.4% and 6.9% of male employees work in the construction and manufacturing sector industries respectively. 22.3% of female employees work in the education, health and social services industry, whereas 20.7% of female employees work in the wholesale and retail services industry.
Crime and Safety
One of the main strengths of Lower Grand Lagoon is the town’s ability to fight crime. According to Areavibes, Lower Grand Lagoon receives a decisive A+ grade in the Crime category. The Total Crime rate in Lower Grand Lagoon is 916 per an estimate of 100,000 people, which is 1,237 below the Florida state average and 1,430 (61%) below the national average. The Violent Crime rate in Lower Grand Lagoon is 163, which is 221 below the Florida state average and 225 (58%) below the national average. The Property Crime rate in Lower Grand Lagoon is 752, which is 1,017 below the Florida state average and 1,206 (62%) below the national average.
Real Estate
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Being an optimum tourist attraction for visitors, Lower Grand Lagoon also happens to be an ideal place to settle down and call home. The main factor that will play into whether you can have a feasible living experience is if you can afford a home that is available in its local real estate market. Most of the current population in Lower Grand Lagoon are retirees who have saved up enough money to live in the tropical paradise they have dreamed of.
The average amount of space you can acquire in a 2-bedroom home in Lower Grand Lagoon is 1,240 square feet. The average selling price of a 2-bedroom home in this town is $649,500, and the average price per square foot is $523.79. The average amount of space you can acquire in a 3-bedroom home is 1,603 square feet. The average selling price of a 3-bedroom home is $1,423,878, and the average price per square foot is $775.97.
Larger families seeking to acquire a 4-bedroom home in Lower Grand Lagoon can expect an average of 2,243 square feet of space. The average selling price for a 4-bedroom home is $962,000, and the average price per square foot is $428.89.
Conclusion
If you venture past the core of Panama City Beach, you can hang around the shorelines that give you great views of the Gulf of Mexico and let you embrace an intriguing tourist attraction in Lower Grand Lagoon. While it will take some time to save up the money to acquire real estate in the area, Lower Grand Lagoon has proven to be a functional small town that offers plenty of amenities to keep you busy. It has a reliable public school system, and its neighborhoods are generally safe, free from the dangers of crime. Lower Grand Lagoon is a complete package of intrigue and excitement as well as responsible and safe living, a small town worthy of evaluating. 2022-09-08T07:03:00-07:002022-07-08T15:42:02-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:29860Santa Rosa Beach: Gateway to 30AOne of the oldest beach towns that you will see when traveling through the Florida Panhandle, Santa Rosa Beach serves as the best gateway to the area of SR 30A. Extending northward past U.S. Highway 98, Santa Rosa Beach is a pleasant town that bears the official title of South Walton County, and true locals will claim that it lies between Blue Mountain Beach and Dune Allen Beach respectively.
History
The origins of Santa Rosa Beach date all the way back to the 16th Century when Spanish settlers began naming towns, rivers, and bays in the yet to be realized American colonies. A major bay in the area that is now called Walton County was given the name Santa Rosa Bay by the Spanish in the 17th Century. The British then changed that name to Choctawhatchee Bay in 1778.
During the time of the American Revolution, the British controlled East and West Florida as their 14th and 15th colonies. After the United States won its independence, Spain regained and kept control of the Floridas until 1821, when Andrew Jackson became Governor of the Floridas and George Walton, Jr. became West Florida’s Secretary of State. On December 29, 1824, Walton County would be officially formed.
The late 1800’s saw a steady increase in popularity the beach lifestyle in America as people slowly began settling in various parts of Florida. Steamboat trade and transportation were both very popular at this time, and towns could very quickly become heavily populated. As early as 1910, United States postal records show Santa Rosa as the name of the area’s post office. It wasn’t until April 1, 1955 when the Santa Rosa Beach post office received its official name.
When it comes to hurricane season, Santa Rosa Beach is historically known as a very high risk hurricane zone. Since 1930, a total of 56 hurricanes have been recorded in Santa Rosa Beach, with the largest hurricane being Georges in 1998.
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What To Do in Santa Rosa Beach
Serving as the gateway to SR30A, Santa Rosa Beach has an abundance of things for you to do throughout the course of a day. You will have plenty of options no matter what part of Sanata Rosa Beach you turn to.
For starters, you will have no problem finding a unique restaurant to have a delicious meal in. Winner of TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award in 2021, the <a href="https://www.shunkgulley.com/">Shunk Gulley Oyster Bar</a> is ranked as the 2nd best restaurant in all of Santa Rosa Beach, only behind the Chanticleer Eatery. Located on South County Highway 393, Shunk Gulley provides live music performances and a fantastic view of the Gulf of Mexico along with delicious food to order. While it offers a great variety of oyster-themed meals, Shunk Gulley also has on their full menu Quinoa Salad, Panzanella Salad, Tuna Poke and Duck Fat Gulley Fries as appetizers, the Avocado Chicken Club Sandwich, and Fried Sweet Tea Chicken Fingers.
Another winner of TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award in 2021 is a restaurant that specializes in American seafood cuisine. That restaurant is called <a href="https://theredbar.com/louis-louis-menu/">Louis Louis</a>, and it has an admirable character that not many other Florida restaurants have. Appetizers at Louis Louis include Smoked Tuna Dip, Smoked Salmon Plate, and Fried Green Beans. Entrees include Panne Chicken, Blackened Fish, and Smoked Salmon Salad. Doubling as a bar, Louis Louis also provides various drinks if you are in the mood for a Happy Hour event. Cocktail mixes include raspberry liquor, pineapple juice, agave nectar, and blueberry puree to name a few.
However, one of the very first things to do in Santa Rosa Beach before you make any other pit stop is to check out the beach terrain itself. Santa Rosa Beach is one of the best beaches that can give you the fantastic view of the gulf that you dream of, and it is the winner of TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award in 2022. Surrounded by various hotels, condominium facilities, and golf rental places for transportation, Santa Rosa Beach is an ideal stomping grounds for casual beachcombing and relaxation.
Hogtown Bayou is a convenient body of water that introduces you to the Gulf of Mexico, and its quiet personality as a resting spot is attractive enough to keep you coming back. Located right next to County Highway 393 is the bayou.
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Crime and Safety
Santa Rosa Beach generally does a good job combating crime and promoting safety. According to <a href="https://www.homefacts.com/crime/Florida/Walton-County/Santa-Rosa-Beach.html">HomeFacts.com</a>, Santa Rosa Beach receives an Overall Score of 19.24% in the Crime category, which is 80.76% lower than the national average. The town’s Violent Crime Score is only 6.92%, which is 93.08% lower than the national average. Santa Rosa Beach has a Property Crime Score of 47.99%, which is 52.01% lower than the national average. The only significant crime type in the area happens to be Larceny Theft, which has a score of 68.39%. Despite this score, it is still 31.61% below the national average.
Real Estate
Covering an expanded area along SR 30A, Santa Rosa Beach gives you multiple opportunities across various towns to acquire the type of real estate that is right for you and your family. If you have a small family and only need a 2-bedroom home, then there are affordable prices in Santa Rosa Beach. The average amount of space you can acquire in a 2-bedroom home in Santa Rosa Beach is 1,041 square feet. The average selling price for a 2-bedroom home is $763,967, and the estimated price per square foot is $733.98.
The interesting catch with the local real estate market in Santa Rosa Beach is that you actually save money on payments in the long run if you seek a house with more than 2 bedrooms. The average amount of space you can acquire in a 3-bedroom home in Santa Rosa Beach is 2,411 square feet. The average selling price for a 3-bedroom home is $669,500, and the estimated price per square foot is $277.69.
If you consider a 4-bedroom home, you would also see fair deals across the local real estate market. The average amount of space you can acquire in a 4-bedroom home in Santa Rosa Beach is 2,637 square feet. The average selling price for a 4-bedroom home is $677,400, and the estimated price per square foot is $256.88.2022-08-25T06:16:00-07:002022-07-01T11:32:14-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:29859Freedom of Livability in Freeport, FloridaThe eastern edge of Choctawhatchee Bay has a secret in the form of a quiet small town that is just waiting to be shared among visitors and potential new residents alike. Within a short driving distance to a wonderful body of water, Freeport offers a set of advantages that many other small towns in Florida won’t be able to offer. One advantage is the abundance of history that supports the underlying beauty of this small town, which for sentimental reasons may influence your decision on whether or not to take up residence here.
General Summary
Freeport is a small town located in Walton County, Florida and it has an estimated population of 2,351. According to <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/freeport-walton-fl/">Niche</a>, Freeport has a median home value of $223,100, which is only $5,600 above the national average. The median rent price for a home in Freeport is nearly identical to the national average as both figures ($1,063 and $1,062 respectively) are separated by only $1. When it comes to either renting or owning a property, Freeport is decisively an owner’s market as 76% of its residents own their homes, whereas 24% pay rent on their property.
According to <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/freeport-fl/">Areavibes</a>, Freeport gets a C- grade in the Cost of Living category, and gets a 71 Livability Score out of 100. As an overall package, the town of Freeport’s statistics are pleasantly misleading as you will end up having more freedom of livability than what some ratings would indicate. For goods and services, it would cost you an estimated $0.88 to buy a bottle of shampoo, which is $0.20 (18.2%) below the national average. For a game of bowling, it would cost you an estimated $12.61, which is $2.88 (18.6%) below the national average.
Estimated health care expenses in Freeport are very beneficial as you will only spend $70.41 for an optometrist appointment, which is $39.32 (35.8%) below the national average. You will spend an estimated $94.42 for a doctor’s appointment, which is $23.98 (20.2%) below the national average. The average mortgage payment you would make for a home in Freeport is $1,068.84, which is $160.78 (13.1%) below the national average.
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Diversity
Age diversity is viewed as a strength in Freeport as Niche gives the small town a B+ grade in the Diversity category, also factoring in both ethnic and economic diversity. A combined 33% of residents in the age range from 55 to over 65 years call Freeport home. A combined 32% of residents ages 35 to 54 years make up the town’s residents, and the youth is well represented as a combined 23% of residents are ages 17 and under.
History
It was around the year 1830 when the town of Freeport officially began operating. Settlers were attracted to the natural harbor of LaGrange Bayou which is located near the eastern end of Choctawhatchee Bay, and situated along the Choctawhatchee River.
Genoa and Four Mile Landing were the original names of this town before it became firmly established as Freeport. During the Civil War, the name Freeport began to stick as Four Mile Landing fell out of favor among residents. In the 1850 census, most heads of Freeport households were listed as either farmers or boatmen. Farming the land and then fishing in the downtime or manning the commercial fishing boats or cargo vessels was the norm for Freeport workers.
Freeport had a significant connection with its steamboat and schooner transportation to larger cities like Pensacola for many years. Boats would also make trips from this small town to Geneva, Alabama via the Choctawhatchee River. The first mail delivered in Walton County came by water to Freeport from Pensacola along with an overland stagecoach route from Tallahassee that connected a steamboat service near Freeport. Most goods that were ordered from Pensacola were freighted by Freeport by commercially operated wagon trains. These trains took the route going northeast from Freeport through the Euchee Valley to the town of Cerro Gordo.
Land in Freeport was purchased in 1918 by the Valparaiso Development Company which planted sugar cane for shipping purposes to accommodate Chicago, Illinois. Today, the original port area at the juncture of Four Mile Creek and LaFayette Creek is manned by the Gulftsream Shipping Building and Murphy USA.
What to Do in Freeport
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One of the biggest pastimes in the state of Florida is going out to the greens to play a round of golf. The Sunshine State has many golf courses, and there is one that has more than enough character to keep you both intrigued and challenged when you tee off. That course would be <a href="https://www.windsweptdunes.com/">Windswept Dunes</a>, which is located on Highway 20, 5 1/2 miles east of the US-331 Junction. Windswept Dunes is a dune-lined course that travels through 750 acres of beautiful Florida terrain. This course is only 20 minutes away from the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport and 30 minutes away from Panama City Beach.
Windswept Dunes has wide fairways and large greens, and it also has full practice facilities set alongside the dramatic dunes. In front of you are 18 holes of spacious golfing, 7,752 from the championship tees. There are also 5 additional sets of tees which provide different levels of challenges and fun regardless of your golfing abilities.
Classified as a zoo, the <a href="https://alaqua.org/">Alaqua Animal Refuge</a> offers visitors tours of the sanctuary it provides to animals that are in need. Hundreds of animals are on this 100-acre property, and the types of animals you will see at Alaqua include cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, ducks and geese. Voted Best of The Emerald Coast in 2015 and 2017 by Emerald Coast Magazine, Alaqua provides shelter, safety, and second chances to animals that have been either hurt or abandoned. They have an application process for adopting an animal, and they work to spread awareness of protecting animals and giving them homes.
Speaking of animals, you could use an environmental education and nature center to help you stay informed about wildlife. With that in mind, the <a href="https://www.eowilsoncenter.org/">E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center</a> serves Freeport with a great educational experience. Educating an average of 100 students a day ranging from the 4th to 7th grades, this education center is open Monday through Friday, promoting the importance of biodiversity, sustainability, and the conservation, preservation and restoration of ecosystems. This center is named after Dr. Edward Osborne Wilson, who is known for popularizing sociobiology, island biogeorgraphy, and character displacement.
While driving through Highway 20 there will be one unique restaurant you can take a pit stop at. That restaurant would be <a href="https://cafe20-cafe.business.site/">Cafe 20</a>, which is a family-owned business that serves families throughout the Florida Panhandle and beyond. Cafe 20 is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm and on the weekends from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. What you can order on the menu are wonderful sandwiches such as Egg, Chicken, and Tuna Salad Sandwiches, the Philly Cheese Steak, the French Dip, and the Fried Fish Sandwich. You can also have healthy salads on the side such as Garden, Caesar, and Taco Salads.
Located on US Highway 331 South is a restaurant that specializes in making pizza, but it also offers great variety in a menu that appeals to food enthusiasts anywhere, That restaurant is called <a href="https://www.pizzaco850.com/">Pizza Company 850</a>, and they are open every day except on Mondays. They are open for lunch 11:00 am to 2:00 pm from Tuesdays to Fridays, and are open for dinner 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm all other days. Specialties for lunch include calzones, Italian and Turkey Paninis, and a single slice of pizza. Appetizers have delicious options in Cheesy Bread, Garlic Bread Melt, and Caprese, which are tomato wedges covered in basil, cheese, and olive oil. The main attraction to Pizza Company 850 is of course the pizza, which come with various toppings. You can build your own pizza, or you can order Pepperoni, Barbecue Chicken, Buffalo Chicken, or the Veggie Supreme Pizza.
Employment
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When it comes to job sustainability in Freeport, employees generally get plenty of breaks compared to surrounding areas. The unemployment rate in Freeport is an estimated 4.5%, which is 0.4% below the Florida state average and 0.2% below the national average. The poverty level in Freeport shows a positive outlook as only 12.3% of the population live in poverty. This level is 3.8% lower than the Florida state average and 2.8% lower than the national average.
When it comes to the types of industries employees work in, Freeport has considerable balance. The majority of male employees in Freeport work in the construction industry, making up 20.6% of that workforce. 14.7% of male employees work in public administration, and 11.5% work in wholesale and retail services respectively. Most female employees work in education, health and social services, making up 41.2% of that workforce. 14.6% of female employees work in wholesale and retail services.
When it comes to earnings, income brackets are very evenly divided. There is a very small gap between male and female employees who make at least $10,000 or lower (19.1% to 18.6%), and those who make anywhere from $40,000 to $65,000 (13.4% to 12.6%). Female employees generate more income in the combined range between $10,000 and $40,000 (62.6% to 41.4%), whereas male employees generate more income in the combined range between $65,000 and over $100,000 (26.2% to 6.2%).
Crime and Safety
One of the greatest strengths of Freeport is its response to crime. According to Areavibes, Freeport receives an A+ grade in the Crime and Safety category. The Total Crime rate in Freeport is an estimated 797 per 100,000 people, which is 66% below the national average. The Violent Crime rate is 142, which is 63% below the national average. The Property Crime rate is 655, which is 67% below the national average. You stand a 1 in 704 chance of being a victim of a violent crime in Freeport, a 1 in 153 chance of being a victim of a property crime, and a 1 in 126 chance of being a victim of a crime in general.
Education
The public education system in the Freeport area is considered to be one of the better systems in the state of Florida. According to Niche, a total of 5 public schools in the Freeport area have received A- grades, and 7 public schools have received B grades. One example of a successful public school would be Freeport Senior High School. This school has an average of 489 students and its student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. Another good example is South Walton High School, which has an average of 952 students and a student-to-teacher ratio of 18:1. These two high schools rank as the 175th and 180th best public high schools in the state of Florida respectively.
Real Estate
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The real estate market in the area of Freeport is an interesting study, but more importantly the homes that are up for sale here are very much attainable if enough money is saved. Freeport is a market that predominantly features 3-bedroom homes, so if you have a large family these are the kinds of homes you would look for. According to the available listings on <a href="https://www.zillow.com/freeport-fl/">Zillow</a>, the average size of land in a 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home is 1,260 square feet of space, with the average estimated price being $449,450. The average price per square foot for a 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home is $356.71.
The average size of land in a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Freeport is 1,803 square feet, with the average estimated price being $453,698. The average price per square foot would be $251.64. The average size of land in a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is 2,084 square feet, with the average estimated price being $523,870. The average price per square foot would be $251.38.
Conclusion
While it may be somewhat tucked away from the best views of the Gulf of Mexico, there is no doubt that Freeport will give you a warm welcome. Excelling in combating crime and having friendly neighborhoods, Freeport will give you the freedom of livability that you have envisioned. You have a wide variety of things to do in and around town, and you remain within a short driving distance to bodies of water. Coupled with a great history, Freeport is a small town that you can genuinely raise a family in and feel safe while doing so.2022-08-11T07:06:00-07:002022-07-01T11:32:41-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:29338Should You Rent Your Home as an Airbnb?One question a lot of Americans have been asking themselves in the past few years is quite an interesting one: Should I rent my home as an Airbnb?
With the global pandemic and subsequent inflation, a big part of the American population saw their monthly income decrease, and some even saw it disappear entirely.
Even with the pandemic under control, prices keep increasing, and a lot of citizens are insecure about their income. This reality made many people look for other forms of earning money, with different "side hustles" and part-time jobs becoming more and more popular.
Turning your own house into an Airbnb comes as a relatively stable income option for many people, but it comes with its pros and cons.
Here are some things to consider before renting your home as an Airbnb.
Prepare Yourself for the Challenges
Renting your own home as an Airbnb doesn't come without its cons, especially if you plan to stay in your home as your guest is there.
It is important to realize that, although Airbnb has policies in place to make the experience safer for both you and your guests, it is still a new way of doing rental. The risks are higher than traditional renting, and the income is also more irregular. The upfront and maintenance costs are high.
However, renting your unused space as a "side hustle" can give you considerable amounts of additional, passive income, and let you meet a lot of different people. Guests in Airbnbs come from all over the country, and sometimes even the world. It's a wonderful chance to learn about other experiences and places.
Read about other people's experience renting their homes, and see if that's something that seems desirable for you. We’ll explore more about the challenges and what to prepare yourself for in later points in this post, but you must decide if this looks like a good option for you and your home in the first place.
Check Laws About Home Sharing
The laws regarding home-sharing are very diverse throughout the country. It is very important that you are aware of the laws that govern where you live, so you are aware of where you stand on the matter.
New York, for example, has laws in place that make it forbidden to rent a home for less than 30 days if the host isn't present. San Francisco has even more strict policies: Airbnbs are only allowed with a full-time resident host and have a limit of 90 days.
Different cities have different laws regarding renting Airbnbs, and if you want to rent your home as one, it is better to comply with them. The fines are quite high and not worth the trouble.
If your city forbids Airbnb renting, it is a better option to try another option to earn passive income than to ‌lie and get caught by the law.
There are also the rules of Airbnb itself to worry about. Those are usually about avoiding canceling planned stays as much as possible, keeping the place nice and clean to earn 5 stars from guests, and other rules that guarantee both guests and hosts to have as few problems as they can.
Be sure to protect yourself by reading on all the legal expectations and Airbnb’s own expectations for you. This will guarantee that you know what to do or not to do, and make you aware of the extent of your rights as a host.
Make Sure the House is Clean
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This might sound like obvious advice, but it is more than that: Guests will come from multiple different places, and you have to take into account their tastes. A "clean smell" can be relaxing to some, and annoying to others. While some guests might not mind some dust you forgot to clean off, others will find it almost insulting.
What this means is, renting your house as an Airbnb can be more challenging than you initially thought when it comes to other people’s tastes. There are a lot of things to be considered, and you won’t be able to please everybody, so it’s always best to go above and beyond with the basics.
You can clean your house by yourself, which will save you quite a lot of money. However, although it saves you money, it won't save you any time (quite the contrary). You will need to clean up in between one guest and another, as well as make sure all the details are perfect at all times.
If renting your home as an Airbnb isn't your only source of income, the time to manage it all yourself would probably be far too much. It is much easier to delegate it.
Because of that, it is highly recommended to invest in a professional cleaning service. Preferably, a company or cleaner with experience in the rental or hotel scene. This is because they can keep an eye out for things like theft, refilling bathroom supplies like soap and paper, and other details that you'd have to keep in mind if you were to do it alone.
Keeping things as clean as possible is a good way to make a good impression even on the pickiest of guests, so this might be one of the most important things you’ll keep in mind as a host.
Screen Your Guests Properly
It is of extreme importance that you have a thorough screening process before allowing any strangers into your house. Renting a temporary home through Airbnb isn't a guarantee that the person has only good intentions, and your safety should always come in the first place.
Of course, it’s hard to do a full background check on every single person who comes in contact wanting to rent, especially if your house becomes a little more popular on the app. Because of that, ‌keep an eye out for any red flags that you find in their profile or reviews.
Even when your personal safety isn’t directly at risk, some guests can be quite difficult to deal with, so knowing it before you let them inside your house is always best.
There is nothing wrong with saying "no" to a possible guest. Check the reviews, and gather as much information as you can on them to see if they seem like a legitimate, safe person to have inside your home. This is especially important if you are going to stay in the Airbnb with them. If you want to be extra careful, only approve of guests with at least a few positive reviews.
Be Sure to Check Your Insurance
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If things go well with the guest, and your screening process works as it should, there will be nothing to worry about except cleaning and supplies.
However, there are dozens of nightmarish stories from hosts about guests that throw parties without permission, break your furniture and other things that will cost you money to fix.
Airbnb has a few insurance rules in place, but they are complicated and enforcing them can take time and effort. It is important to read all about them and keep them in mind, but you might also want to pay for some additional outside insurance. It is unlikely that your standard one covers rental problems, so contact your insurance company to see if they have other options available.
Be as Honest as Possible
It is very important to list everything that your home has and doesn't have. That includes whether or not it has wi-fi, how fast is the internet, if there's cable TV or not, and other details.
Guests should have all the information about the place they're going to stay in, as that ensures their comfort and a nice positive review for you later‌.
Don't let the fear that a seemingly "negative" feature will scare off guests. There are always people looking for places to stay, and they are all extremely diverse, with wildly different tastes. Your home is bound to attract people.
Have a Solid Check-in Process
It is very important to guarantee a positive review in the check-in category, and it's not a hard task.
Make sure that your guest has very clear and detailed instructions on how to arrive at your home. If you can, prepare a check-in instruction list with frequently asked questions so your guest doesn't have to go out of their way to ask you everything.
Be proactive in this stage of their stay, but don't nag them too much, as this can be seen as annoying. Explicit instructions and a few tips in a pre-made format can go a long way.
Be Open to Changes
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Reading about renting your home as an Airbnb isn't the same as actually doing it. Doing it will come with its own set of unexpected challenges and experiences.
Always be open to listening to your guests and incorporating their feedback into your hosting practice. Even if this isn't your 9-5 job, it's still important to have excellent reviews, and listening will get you well on your way to that.
Being an Airbnb host isn’t as “passive” as some people would like for their side income, as it requires effort, time and investment to work out well. However, if those are things you can afford to give to your new rental business, it can be quite a lucrative path to take.2022-07-28T07:45:00-07:002022-06-06T18:58:50-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:29319Set Sail on Life in Panama City BeachRight next door to the more urban environment of Panama City is the more quiet Panama City Beach, a fine representation of the SR 30A area while also being the easternmost part of the area. When you set sail on life in this community, you can live life to the fullest. Having an advantageous view of the Gulf of Mexico, you can enjoy the small town feel that Panama City Beach provides.
General Summary
Panama City Beach is located in Bay County, Florida and it has an estimated population of 12,542. According to <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/panama-city-beach-bay-fl/">Niche</a>, Panama City Beach has a median home value of $243,300, which is $25,800 above the national average. Its median rent price for a home is $1,268, which is $206 above the national average. When it comes to either renting or owning a property in this town, Panama City Beach leans more in favor of being an owner’s market as 62% of the population own their homes, whereas 38% pay rent on their property.
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According to <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/panama+city+beach-fl/">Areavibes</a>, Panama City Beach gets a C- rating in the Cost of Living category, and gets a 76 rating out of 100. Prices for goods and services are very respectable as most the town’s costs stay slightly below the national average. You only pay an estimated $14.35 for a haircut in Panama City Beach (a difference of $4.27 or 22.9% below the national average), $0.89 for a bottle of shampoo ($0.17 less than or 15.5% below the national average), and $38.32 for a trip to the beauty salon ($0.73 less than or 1.9% below the national average). Going out to the bowling alley in this town works for your wallet as you pay only $14.01, which is $0.56 (or 4.5%) below the national average.
The average mortgage payment that you would need to make in Panama City Beach is $817.86, which is $379.56 (or 31.7%) below the national average. If you are paying rent for an apartment, you would be paying an average of $1,100, which is $151 (or 15.9%) above the national average.
Diversity
If you are looking for balance when it comes to age diversity, you will be pleasantly surprised by Panama City Beach’s statistics. A combined 36% of the population consist of residents in the age range between 45 and over 65 years. Adults in the age range of 18 to 44 years make up a combined 37% of the population. The youth of ages 17 and under make up a combined 16% of the population.
History
Panama City Beach’s rise to notoriety started in the early 1900s even though the main way to access this part of the Florida Panhandle at that time was to take a boat. In 1929, the Hathaway Bridge was built to connect the mainland of Panama City to its beach. Tourism would pick up considerable steam after this bridge was constructed. In the 1930s, the Panama City Beach Hotel would go up as the area’s very first hotel. In 1939, the area received its very first post office. The town would be officially incorporated in 1953. It would take separate communities in Panama City Beach, Long Beach, Gulf Beach, Dutchville, Edgewater, Playville, and Julia to form the incorporated Panama City Beach.
The town was purposely being developed as a premier tourist location during the 1950s and 1960s. Amusement parts were built here initially to draw in families. These parks included the Petticoat Junction Amusement Park and the Miracle Strip Amusement Park. The very first roller coaster in the state of Florida was none other than the Starliner Roller Coaster, which was part of the Miracle Strip Amusement Park.
The early to mid 2000s saw a construction boom take place in the area as the older homes and motels would be replaced with high-rise condominiums and homes that were more expansive. However, in a roundabout way, the previously unobstructed, low-rise beach views of the area and the once affordable waterfront property became rare sightings. The real estate boom was felt in Panama City Beach in the period between 2000 and 2006 as the value of many beachfront properties quadrupled. The American real estate market experienced a downturn in 2007, and along with a sudden surge of new condominium construction, brought prices back to respectable levels in the area.
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What To Do in Panama City Beach
Being situated along the Gulf of Mexico has its advantages for many small Florida towns, and in the case of Panama City Beach, this town provides you with plenty of options to go out on boat cruises. For starters, check out the Sunset and Dolphin Catamaran Cruise that is hosted by <a href="https://islandtimesailing.com/service/dolphin-sunset-sailing-cruise/">Island Time Sailing</a>. For a duration of 2 hours, you can experience some of the most relaxing sailing on the open seas in your life. This cruise starts at the Treasure Island Marina, and once you set sail you can purchase a drink at the on-board bar. Since 1999, Island Time Sailing has specialized in dolphin sails, which means that the captain and crew will likely take you past a part of the sea that has dolphins jumping about in plain view.
If it is a thrill ride you are looking for, then The Scream Machine might be more of your thing. In a duration time of 1 hour you can enjoy some of the most thrilling jet boat rides in all of America. You can take a group as large as 23 people together for The Scream Machine, which zips across the water while making daring 360 degree turns. The Scream Machine is able to momentarily go airborne before taking a nose dive, giving you the feel of a roller coaster on water. The Scream Machine is sponsored by <a href="https://brochinexpeditions.com/">Brochin Expeditions</a>.
When it comes to fun physical activities that you can do with your family in the Florida Panhandle, perhaps one of the last things you would think of would be axe throwing. It turns out you can do exactly that if you stop by 525 Richard Jackson Boulevard. <a href="https://axethrowingpcb.com/">Axe Throwing PCB</a> provides a fun environment for people of all ages while showing all first-time axe throwers how to properly aim at their targets. You will have to book in advance, which costs $29 per adult, but once booked you can enjoy one full hour of practicing your axe throwing skills.
<a href="https://jetsurfpcb.com/">JetSurf PCB</a> is a family-owned business that aims to bring Panama City Beach locals and visitors the fun learning experience of one of the newest water sports in JetSurf. For a duration of one hour you can learn how to jet surf, with there being a 15-minute briefing on how to use a motorized surf board and then 45 minutes of adventure on the open seas. However, safety precautions are always taken to ensure that you have both a fun and safe experience as you will be given a safety helmet, a personal flotation device, and clear instructions.
Calling Panama City Beach one of their homes, a group of young professional photographers got together to form one of the most successful photography companies on the international scene. That company is called <a href="https://travelandabroad.com/">Travel and Abroad Photographers</a>, and they give you a 1-hour session to experience some of the most stunning photo shoots you can imagine. Regardless of what your planned event is, whether that be a wedding, a birthday party, or a retirement party, you can get over 40 fully edited photos. These professional images will be sent to you via email with a link to a gallery that is downloadable. Travel and Abroad also offers discounts for groups of over 10 people.
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Experiencing the local cuisine of Panama City Beach is greatly represented by <a href="https://deeshangout.com/#dining">Dee’s Hang Out</a>, which offers a laid-back approach to dining. Dee’s has its appetizers in Original Smoked Tuna Dip, Queso Dip, and Jalapeno Ranch Smoked Tuna Dip. House Specialties include the Cajun Platter, and Crab Cakes served with Cajun Remoulade and a side. Dee’s also serves various steaks including the Filet Mignon, Ribeye, Redfish, and the Mahi-Mahi Platter. There are also many delicious sandwiches and Po-Boys in this restaurant such as the 1/ 2 pound Hang-Out Burger, Chicken Sandwich, the South Philly Steak and Cheese Po-Boy, and the Argentine Steak Tacos Po-Boy.
Real Estate
The burning question you may have after reviewing Panama City Beach is “What does the real estate market look like in this area?”
Compared to the rest of the SR 30A area, Panama City Beach can be considered to be a modest real estate gold mine of sorts. According to Zillow, there are hundreds of listings to choose from if you are interested in buying a home for yourself and your family. When it comes to the cheapest options available, there are a total of 26 listings that are in the price range between $309,000 and $330,000.
There are currently 77 listings for 1-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes in Panama City Beach. Of these listings, the average amount of living space you can acquire is 827 square feet. The average listing price for a 1-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is $543,900, with the average purchase price per square foot being $657.68.
There are currently 51 listings for 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom homes, and of these listings, the average amount of living space you can acquire is 1,622 square feet. The average listing price for a 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is $617,500, with the average purchase price per square foot being $380.70. The average amount of living space in a 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom home in Panama City Beach is 2,340 square feet. The average listing price is $724,331 while the average price per square foot is $309.54.
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Conclusion
Panama City Beach is considered to be one of the premier destinations for anyone wanting to call the Florida Panhandle home, and there are plenty of reasons to see why. Not only does Panama City Beach represent the eastern edge of SR 30A, but it also represents an amazing opportunity to start the care-free lifestyle you have been wanting in a tax-free state like Florida. Having a wide variety of things to do, and being conveniently located next to Panama City, there is no denying that Panama City Beach is one of the best small Florida towns to move in to. 2022-07-14T08:19:00-07:002022-06-06T18:55:07-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:29318Saving Costs Around the HomeThere are still ways to save money around the house, even while the cost of living continues to climb due to variables such as inflation, rising oil prices, and rising energy expenses. There are many different ways to save money around the house, such as doing your laundry in a way that is more energy efficient, adjusting the direction your ceiling fan rotates to correspond with the changing of the seasons, or even making use of coupons.
Plumbing
By lowering your water waste and keeping up with plumbing maintenance, you can save money over the course of a longer period of time. Performing routine maintenance on your plumbing can help you save money in the long run by reducing the likelihood of major breakdowns, which can wreak havoc on your finances.
It's time to shut off your faucets properly - Even though it might not seem like a huge concern, a leaking faucet can waste a significant amount of water. However, in certain circumstances, a faucet can lose as much as 15 gallons of water in a single day. In order to avoid wasting any water, you should make a concerted effort to turn off all of the taps in your home. If the faucet continues to leak even after being turned off, either repair it or replace it with a new one. As a direct consequence of this, you won't need to be concerned about wasting either water or money.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Saving_1.png" width="600" height="400" />
Utilize shower heads with low flow - By replacing regular shower heads with ones that produce less water flow, it is feasible to significantly reduce the amount of water used on a daily basis. The majority of home improvement stores carry low-flow shower heads that are straightforward to set up. If you restrict the amount of time you spend in the shower, you'll be able to cut down even further on the amount of money you spend on your monthly power bill.
Locate and repair unnoticed leaks - There are water leaks that are easy to spot, while others require more investigation to find. In order to locate any hidden leaks, it is necessary to turn off all of the faucets and utilities and then examine the water meter to determine whether or not it is running. If the meter continues to move, you might have a water leak in your home that isn't being picked up by the sensor. A plumber is required for this case to resolve the issue.
Ensure that drains don't get clogged - Drains are often neglected by homeowners until they are in a bad state. At least once a month, pour a cup of baking powder and a cup of vinegar down your drains to prevent clogs. Drain cleaners using harsh chemicals should be avoided since they might damage your pipes and pollute the environment. Install strainers over the drains of the sinks, showers, and bathtubs in the bathrooms to keep soap and hair out of the pipes. Another thing to keep in mind is that frying fat should not be poured down the drain. A clogged drain can occur when the grease hardens and adheres to the inside of the pipe. Pouring grease into a metallic can and letting it cool and harden instead of flushing it is an environmentally friendly option.
Streamline Your Electricity Consumption
You need to keep your house warm or cool; you also need electricity to run your lights and other appliances. Many ways exist to reduce utility costs.
The average household's electricity bill is about 13% of its total spending.
There are immediate ways to save money on these costs: The computer should be turned off, the dishwasher should be full, the laundry should be hung out rather than put in a dryer, and the thermostat should be turned down a few degrees. Compare utility providers and see if there are better deals out there.
Other ways to save money require an initial investment, but in the long run they will save you money. Upgrade your water heater to an Energy Star model and make sure you buy Energy Star appliances. Heating and cooling systems that are more efficient can reduce your utility costs while also benefiting the environment.
Check your state's government website to see if you can save money by making major utility changes. With the help of these programs, consumers can easily switch to more energy-efficient heating systems. As an example, the state of Maine has a heat pump rebate program that offers a $1,000 credit to homeowners who currently use oil heat to help them make the switch to a heat pump.
When it comes to utilities, don't forget about your cable subscription and cell phone plan. Can you get a lower-priced plan from a different provider or downsize the one you currently use?
Instead of spending a lot of money on cable or satellite, consider streaming services like Hulu or Netflix.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Saving_2.png" width="600" height="400" />
Look at Your Subscriptions and Make Changes
The vast majority of individuals participate in a variety of weight loss programs, in addition to having monthly subscriptions to various cable or streaming services, the internet, mobile phones, and publications. Despite the fact that you most likely don't give it a second thought, the money is still taken out of your bank account on a monthly basis.
Take a more in-depth look at this right now. Consider the following:
What level of significance does this hold for me?
How would I be able to function without it?
If you decide to cancel your membership, the company will continue to send you emails and adverts unless you opt out of receiving them and click the "unsubscribe" button in those emails.
It is important to keep in mind that even if a provider makes it very difficult for you to unsubscribe, it is still worth your time to make the effort to do so. Consider the process of cutting your spending as a succession of minor injuries that, when added up, result in the death of your debt.
Cutting Cost Around the Kitchen
Herbs are easy to grow - A bundle of herbs can be purchased for three to four dollars. A miniature herb garden that is kept on the window sill of your home will run you about the same amount of money initially, but it will supply you with fresh herbs for many months. This will result in a decrease in the amount of money that you keep from buying herbs.
Bottled water isn't necessary - Bottled water may appear to be inexpensive, but it can quickly spiral out of control. You can drink tap water if you buy a water filter pitcher. The long-term savings outweigh any short-term inconvenience, and it's better for the environment, too.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Saving_3.png" width="600" height="400" />
Freeze nearly-spoiled fruits and vegetables - In many homes, a weekly ritual consists of buying fresh produce, followed by the preparation of dinners to be stored in the freezer while perishable items such as bananas and spinach go bad. What if we started putting them in the freezer so that we may use them in smoothies later on? It makes a substantial dent in the amount of waste produced by our household on a weekly basis.
Boost the shelf life of dairy products - Milk that is getting close to its use-by date can be stored in the freezer in quantities of one pint at a time and then used as needed. Grated cheese scraps of any variety can be frozen in a plastic container once they have been prepared as described above. Simply sprinkle it on top of your pizza or lasagna straight from the jar. Combine crushed berries or mashed bananas with natural yogurt, and then freeze the mixture in ice lolly molds for an ice cream substitute that has a lesser amount of fat.
Cutting Costs in the Laundry Room
Make sure your dryer's filter is clean - Your energy cost will go up even further if, after washing your clothing, you use a tumble dryer to dry them. There is, however, a technique to reduce the expense of operating a vehicle. Filters clogged with dust and lint from your clothes reduce the efficiency of the dryer, increasing the amount of energy required to dry your clothes. This can be remedied by removing larger particles of fluff and hair from the filter, which should then be rinsed and dried before being reinserted. It's recommended by Hoover, a major appliance retailer with its own line of tumble dryers, that you do this before each drying cycle to keep your dryer in good working order and to save money. As a result, operating the dryer inefficiently resulted in an additional expenditure of about $20 per year.
Small loads should be avoided - Using the washer less will also save money. You don't have to stop washing your clothing, simply save up for a full drum and wash less often. Once the machine is full, you can turn it off and save money. Use a short program or speed-up button to save energy use when washing a few things. Even a modest wash uses electricity, so it will only slightly reduce expenditures. One big wash multiple times a week uses 17% less energy than three quick washes daily. Which found that one machine's speed-up function consumed 20% less energy than another's. Average washing machine saves $10 per year. Saving laundry for one big load reduces detergent consumption, and the slower you get through it, the less you'll spend on groceries.
These strategies for reducing costs and conserving energy around the house have shown to be beneficial. Money reserves are absolutely necessary in light of the current inflationary environment.2022-06-30T08:48:00-07:002022-06-30T16:05:49-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:28952The Solid Foundation of Grayton BeachGrayton Beach is not just a small beach village located on the Florida Panhandle and along the way through SR 30A. It is a small beach village that carries great historical significance, a place that helped lay the groundwork for other surrounding towns in South Walton County such as Rosemary Beach, Seagrove, Seaside, and WaterColor. The solid foundation of Grayton Beach is to be admired as well as embraced, especially if you plan on calling this village your home in the future.
History
The oyster-shell roads of Grayton Beach give you the impression that things don’t change much in the area. You would be right with that assessment. Old wooden homes are surrounded by pine and oak trees, which is a reminder that homes have been in place longer than the trees have stood. This small beach village is 131 years old, and it celebrates its anniversary every July 4th.
A United States Army major named Charles T. Gray decided to build a homestead in Grayton Beach in 1885, according to the Coastal Heritage Preservation Foundation. At this time the federal government owned much of the land and there was little to no reason for people to settle in Grayton Beach. Farming appeared to be impossible because the soil was too sandy, and there are were much better timberlands when traveling inland. Point Washington was the closest settlement 5 miles north on Choctawhatchee Bay.
5 years later in 1890 Gray welcomed in neighbors when the families of Army General William Miller and William Wilson settled in Grayton Beach. It was at this point that Gray, Miller and Wilson mapped out the locations of the village’s streets and blocks. The only building still standing in Grayton Beach that is thought to date back to about 1890 is a two-story home located at the end of County Road 283. This home is known as the Wash-A-Way.
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Arriving from DeFuniak Springs in 1913, W.H. and his son Van R. Butler became the village’s leading promoter, though not intentionally. W.H. Butler worked as a real estate agent, and he had started a resort project at Philips Inlet near the Bay County line. However, he discovered that he could have Grayton Beach’s land for half the price of Philips Inlet, and he ended up buying most of what is today’s Grayton Beach.
World War II was a period of time that saw a lot of activity in Grayton Beach as the U.S. Coast Guard would establish a 40-man station in the village in 1942. The federal government rented many of the village’s homes for barracks and offices. If you look inside the Wash-A-Way you can find the name of of Coast Guard officer written in ink on a closet wall he used as a darkroom.
In 1967, the state of Florida used land east of Grayton Beach to create the Grayton Beach State Recreation Area. After many years of lobbying by residents, the state bought the village’s beach front as well as the dunes and the forest land to the west and north in 1985.
Things To Do in Grayton Beach
Grayton Beach would not be in the advantageous position it is in today if it wasn’t for the assistance of <a href="https://www.floridastateparks.org/graytonbeach">Grayton Beach State Park</a>. By far one of the most beautiful state parks in Florida, this place won TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award in 2021. If you envision clean white sand and a quiet environment, then you will have that in Grayton Beach State Park. A nature trail is provided by this park, which goes between the dunes and Western Lake.
The backwaters of Western Lake, a 100-acre coastal dune lake surrounded by the state park’s natural areas, can be explored by either bringing your own canoe or kayak or renting a NuCanoe or tandem kayak at the ranger station. You will find canoes and kayaks available for rental right at the lake shoreline. It costs $35 for a half-day and $50 for a full day to rent a kayak, and Nucanoe rentals cost $15 for a half-day and $25 for a full day.
If you ever needed an art gallery to check out in the Florida Panhandle, <a href="https://gingerleighdesigns.com/">The Workshop by Ginger Leigh</a> Designs should rank at the top of your list. The displays of art that you will see at The Workshop can be bought at more than reasonable prices. Artwork made by Ginger Leigh includes paintings of birds and hearts, original abstract paintings such as landscapes and bodies of water, and stationery items. Ginger Leigh also offers <a href="https://createwithgingerleigh.mykajabi.com/store">online classes</a> for making fantastic artwork.
If you prefer an artsy boutique that offers classes in how to make wonderful glass art, then stopping by <a href="https://shardshop.com/">The Shard Shop</a> on 26 Logan Lane would be a great idea. Winner of TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award in 2020, The Shard Shop encourages you to make your own art in the form of glass shards. They offer classes in making glass art both in Grayton Beach and in the big city of New Orleans. Classes typically take one hour in duration and are available for people of most ages, from ages 6 and up. If you are planning a special party for yourself, a friend or a family relative, The Shard Shop can also accommodate.
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There is the artsy boutique, and then there is the lifestyle boutique that offers special items and gifts for your coastal living needs. SR 30A has that lifestyle boutique in <a href="https://beauhomeinteriors.com/">Beau Interiors</a>. Furniture, rugs, lighting materials, art, accessories, women’s lounge-ware, and jewelry are just some of the items this boutique offers. Beau Interiors began operations in 2011 having more than just furniture and gifts in mind. Margie Perry, the owner and founder, was inspired to create an atmosphere filled with beauty through both soft, coastal interiors and uniquely inspired gift offerings.
55 Clayton Lane is home to one of the best restaurants in all of SR 30A. That restaurant is <a href="https://www.chanticleereatery.com/">Chanticleer Bakery & Eatery</a>, and you don’t need to make any reservations to have a meal! Chanticleer is highly regarded as a great place to dine as it has received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for an outstanding 6 consecutive years from 2014 to 2019. It is also the winner of TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Award in 2020. Chanticleer has separate menus for lunch, dinner, alcoholic drinks, children, and catering. Offered on the Lunch Menu are entrees such as Krioyo Pasta and the Fried Fish Platter MKT. Entrees on the Dinner Menu include Smoked Filet Mignon, the Fish Platter, and the Not Your Mama’s Chicken and Rice.
The heart of Grayton Beach provides plenty of pleasant surprises when it comes to amenities, and if you go to 85 Defuniak Street, you will find a true local treasure in particular. The <a href="https://www.hibiscusflorida.com/">Hibiscus Coffee and Guesthouse</a> offers an exceptional bed and breakfast service that can be hard to find in the Florida Panhandle.
Referred to as an old-fashioned romantic getaway, Hibiscus offers 13 different accommodations when it comes to guestrooms, which are all furnished and decorated with a vintage feeling of Old Florida. In your guestroom you will have either a mini or full-sized refrigerator, microwave oven, coffee pot, a sturdy WiFi connection, satellite TV, and a private bath. While Hibiscus also serves lunch, its specialty is breakfast, which mostly features vegetarian meals.
Breakfast entrees include Baked Frittata, Vegan Biscuits and Gravy, various kinds of waffles, Vegan Breakfast Sliders, and Old Fashion Oatmeal. Baked goods include cinnamon rolls, biscuits, and the Hibiscuit Wonder Cookie, which contains peanut butter, oatmeal, granola, chocolate<br /> chips, and walnuts.
Real Estate
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When moving into a small, private community such as Grayton Beach, be prepared to spend plenty of money in order to enjoy the lifestyle that the village provides. If you intend on buying or renting a home in the Grayton Beach area, you must either have a lot of money saved up beforehand at a young age, or already be retired with money saved up over time.
If you are going to live the life of your dreams in a tropical paradise like Grayton Beach, it is going to be an expensive cost. According to the current available listings, the average size you can acquire in a 4-bedroom home is 2,687.75 square feet of space. The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Grayton Beach is $2,020,750, with the average price per square foot being $751.84. If you have a larger family and need a 5-bedroom home, then it will also be costly. The average size you can acquire in a 5-bedroom home is 3,548.75 square feet of space. The average cost of a 5-bedroom home in Grayton Beach is $4,003,500, with the average price per square foot being $1,128.14.
Conclusion
Although the cost of real estate in this town will prepare you to save a hefty amount of money, there is no doubt that Grayton Beach is every bit as advertised when it comes to satisfactory living in a tropical paradise. Having an amazing history that supports its foundation, as well as an abundance of things to do for the whole family, Grayton Beach fulfills your daily needs. Assisted by beautiful landscapes such as Grayton Beach State Park, the private community of Grayton Beach is an ideal landing spot raising a family and living a quiet life away from large urban areas. When traveling through SR 30A, it is highly recommended to take a tour through Grayton Beach to see if it is the right fit for you. 2022-06-16T06:31:00-07:002022-06-02T08:40:33-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:28951Relaxing in the Community of WaterColorWhen traveling through Scenic Route 30A in northwestern Florida, you will often find some of the most beautiful architectural designs the Sunshine State has to offer. WaterColor is no exception to this as its homes are based on the vernacular architecture of Southern style wood homes with large wraparound or screened porches. What you will get in WaterColor is more of a private community that has amenities open only to those who live in the area. This community borders both the Gulf of Mexico and Western Lake, which is the largest coastal dune lake in South Walton.
General Summary
Situated on exactly 499 acres, WaterColor is considered to be a Southern resort and residential community that was planned by Cooper, Robertson & Partners along with Urban Design Associates. A well known land development company called the St. Joe Company supervised the community’s development. WaterColor’s main neighborhood, which is called Park District, is situated at the corner of South County Highway 395 and West Lake Forest Drive, and it has a total of 41 neighborhood lots.
Being more of a private community, WaterColor’s neighborhoods are run by a Homeowners Association group. You will have to review all of this group’s <a href="https://www.joe.com/community/watercolor/park-district">important documents</a> before you consider purchasing a homesite.
The weather is very nice in WaterColor, and it resembles that of a typical Florida community setting as it is warm in most months of the year. According to <a href="https://www.worldweatheronline.com/watercolor-weather-averages/florida/us.aspx">worldweatheronline.com</a>, WaterColor is consistently anywhere from 80° to 88°F from the months of May to September. Its coldest months happen to be from December to February as the temperatures range from 60° to 64°F.
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Things To Do in WaterColor
Direct access to the beach is not available to the general public. The WaterColor Beach Club has been reserved for only the WaterColor residents. If you are a guest at the WaterColor Inn or any beach resort, then you will have access to the beach.
You will not be at a shortage of things to do should you call WaterColor your new home. Shopping at WaterColor should come very easy. One great example of shopping in this small community is the <a href="https://www.boca-boutique.com/">Boca Boutique and Gallery</a> at Watercolor Crossings, which is located on 174 Watercolor Way. This is specifically a place to shop for women’s clothing and accessories, and all clothing is appropriate for adjusting to the Florida weather.
There is more than one women’s boutique to check out. <a href="https://fussstyle.com/">Fuss Boutique</a> also provides a great variety of clothing apparel to choose from, which include graphic T-shirts, dresses, tops and bottoms. When it comes to accessories, Fuss offers hats, sunglasses, jewelry, shoes, and many different styles of bags you can carry in your travels. You can also buy unique gift items such as novelty items, various beauty products like bar soaps, soy candles, and natural incense products.
Now if you have kids and you occasionally allow them to have sweets for snacks, then taking them to The Candy Bar would be a solid idea. Located on 1777 East County Highway 30A is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thecandybar30a">The Candy Bar</a>, a place designed for kids to come and hang out together while having either their favorite sweets or a serving of ice cream. Everything you see at this shop is clearly priced, and the wide variety of candies that you can choose from are very admirable. Especially during the hot summer days, ordering a milkshake or a mint chocolate chip ice cream would be a great way to perk up the day for your children.
For the parents, if it is wines, beers and liquors that you seek, then look no further than <a href="https://www.chanswineworld.com/">Chan’s Wine World Bar and Restaurant</a>! It all began with the passion that Chan Cox had for wine. Chan founded Wine World in 2000 in its first location in Destin, but gradually made his way to WaterColor and opened another location there. With a focus on quality service and highly competitive pricing, Wine World has been voted Best of the Emerald Coast “Best Wine List” for three consecutive years from 2012 to 2014. Wine World has an impressive lineup of wine drinks that come from many different countries, including Italy, France, Germany, Argentina, Australia and South Africa, to name a few.
If you specifically go to <a href="https://www.thewinebarfl.com/">The Wine Bar</a> to have a meal, there are delicious meals to order on either the lunch or dinner menus. For lunch, you can have small plates like the Pan Seared Ahi Tuna, the Smoked Snapper Dip, and Roasted Brussels Sprouts. Sandwiches include the Peppadew Pesto Panini, the Smoked Turkey Club, and the Wine Bar Chicken Salad Sandwich. Dinner includes various types of pizza such as Tomato Florentine, Spicy Chicken, and Classic Margherita Pizza.
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Voted by Emerald Coast Magazine as the “Best of the Emerald Coast” in 2019, <a href="https://pizzabythesea.com/">Pizza by the Sea</a> has served the Florida Panhandle with some of the most delicious food in the Sunshine State. WaterColor is one of four locations Pizza by the Sea operates in, and it is open everyday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. Pizza by the Sea serves both lunch and dinner to customers. On the lunch menu, you can pick two sides for $11.99, which are only available Monday through Friday. Sides include a giant slice of pizza, various salads, baked spaghetti, and a bowl of soup. Also offered are sandwiches like Meatball Subs, the Calzone, and the Stromboli.
On the dinner menu, you have an amazing selection of customized pizzas that are packed with unique flavors. Examples include the Cha Cha Chipotle, which has garlic butter, add chicken, jalapenos and onions covered with mozzarella and bacon and finished off with chipotle, Romano Ranch drizzle. The Rabbit Food pizza contains green peppers, mushrooms, black olives, Roma tomatoes and red onions. The Queen Margherita pizza contains garlic butter olive oil, Mozzarella cheese, Roma tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Last but certainly not least is a restaurant that gives you excellent seaside views of the Emerald Coast. Located on the second floor of the WaterColor Inn hotel is <a href="https://www.foow30a.com/">Fish Out of Water</a>, which opened in June 2018. Focusing on the fresh flavors of the Emerald Coast, Fish Out of Water provides highly efficient service to customers. Between foods and drinks, there are 7 different menus to choose from. On the Brunch Menu, you can have the WaterColor Omelet, which has Baby Arugula, Tomatoes, and Swiss Cheese, or the Veggie Quinoa Bowl. The Midday Happy Hour Menu includes the Gulf Fish Sandwich and the Dos Grouper Tacos. The Dinner Menu features meals like Sweet Tea Chicken, Tuna Poke Tini, and the restaurant’s signature pasta.
Real Estate
One important thing to keep in mind is that WaterColor is primarily a private community, which means that it isn’t entirely open to the general public. Knowing this, it is also important to factor in how expensive it will be to actually live in this private community. Be prepared to spend a lot of money to become a homeowner in WaterColor, which is the only real setback to living in this otherwise amazing small town.
According to the <a href="https://homes-for-sale.mainsailrealtycompany.com/i/watercolor-real-estate--homes-for-sale">Main Sail Realty Company</a>, the average total price of a 4-bedroom home in WaterColor is $3,768,667. The average amount of square feet in a 4-bedroom home is 2,916. Dividing the average total price by average square feet, the average price per square foot to acquire a 4-bedroom home in WaterColor is $1,292.41. The average total price of a 5-bedroom home in WaterColor is $4,107,500. The average amount of square feet in a 5-bedroom home is 3,504. Dividing the average total price by average square feet, the average price per square foot to acquire a 5-bedroom home in WaterColor is $1,172.23. 6-bedroom homes in WaterColor have an average total price of $5,350,000, an average square footage of 4,580, and an average price per square feet of $1,170.38. 3-bedroom homes in WaterColor have an average total price of $2,879,950, an average square footage of 2,487, and an average price per square feet of $1,158.
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Conclusion
WaterColor is often compared to other small communities that are situated along SR 30A, and most notably Seaside. These two communities are often considered mirror images of each other because of their town layouts and their similar architectural design choices. You have an abundance of things to do so that you don’t get bored at any point, and you are surrounded by beautiful beach terrain, which is something you can fully embrace if you are officially part of the WaterColor community.
When traveling through SR 30A, there are plenty of surprising secrets that await in the form of beautiful and enjoyable small communities. WaterColor would be a great example of being such a secret. Even though this community is primarily for the more wealthier demographics, if you can afford living in such a care-free and pleasant town, then you owe it to yourself to check out WaterColor. If you prefer more of an isolated environment filled with friendly neighbors and associates, then WaterColor should be at the top of your list of places to move to. 2022-06-02T07:29:00-07:002022-06-02T08:43:42-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:28949The Value of a Well-Maintained HomeNeglecting repair has the potential to cause structural and property damage to your home. Regular maintenance raises overall property values. It also improves aesthetic appeal, assures safety, and avoids ignored maintenance from becoming costly major repairs.
When selling a home, curb appeal is critical. A home with shabby landscaping or an exterior in severe need of repainting will certainly turn off potential buyers, lowering the home's resale value. Lawns, trees, bushes, and flowers are all common features of landscaping.
Add Value by Performing Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance not only helps in maintaining but also increases the value of a property. This means that property owners can upgrade a property to the point that it becomes a benchmark for determining the worth of other properties. Shrubs, trees, flowers, and beautiful green grass all make an impact on a property. Maintaining it is crucial, but don't overlook the extras when wanting to use your landscape to increase the value of your home.
Paved walkways, patios or balconies, and even a strategically placed gazebo all contribute to the appeal of your outdoor space to potential purchasers. If you currently have a deck but it isn't looking its best, try staining it or upgrading to composite decking. Pave a dirt path that has been worn from strolling out your back entrance to the fence gate with some excellent paving stones.
This is accomplished through routine upkeep and strategic home improvements. Preventative care is critical to maintaining your house's worth; without it, your home might lose 10% of its value.
What is the Cost of Maintenance?
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The amount of money needed for yearly maintenance varies. Routine tasks like cleaning gutters and replacing furnace filters may be all that's required for some years, and your total costs could be a few hundred dollars. Major upgrades, such as a roof installation, could cost $10,000 or more in other years.
According to a survey published by the United States Census Bureau, annual upkeep costs average more than $3,300 over a long period. Various credit institutions agree, putting ongoing maintenance around 1% to 3% of the initial dwelling price. This means that homeowners with a $200,000 home should set aside $2,000 to $6,000 each year for recurring maintenance and replacement costs.
Importance of Landscape in History
It's no surprise that properties with properly designed, established, and managed landscapes have greater real estate values when you consider humanity's long-standing historical urge to spend time in nature. Everyone appreciates nature for many reasons. It provides a sense of serenity and calms for many people, as well as a serene setting in which to de-stress.
A skilled landscape planner will help your lawn rise above the market's competition. There are numerous levels of assistance available. There are various software and app solutions if you know what you're doing and merely need to document it. Furthermore, local garden centres frequently have experts who can provide a rapid sketch. Landscape designers are up to the task, as they can create a precise layout as well as install it. Although their services may overlap, professional landscape architects typically go beyond designers to give top-tier plans and installation assistance.
Humans have had a natural urge to interact with nature regularly across recorded history, going as far back as ancient Egypt. Humans have always tried to figure out how to bring nature into their households and yards because failing to do so can have deleterious social and mental consequences. Trending subjects like urban forestry and interiorscaping support people's natural need to be in nature.
The Connection Between Landscape and Property Value
Adequate maintenance is beyond simply keeping plants alive. Most native plants normally take care of themselves. It is a determined effort to keep all components of your environment looking healthy, sparkling, and spatially arranged in a way that grabs your attention as nothing else can. Many people consider landscaping to be an unnecessary luxury, especially if they reside in a large townhouse or apartments.
In our environment, it's easy to overlook landscaping because our mild, moist weather appears to encourage many plants to start taking care of themselves. Fire pits, decks, patios, waterfalls, swimming pools, and outdoor lighting, for example, can all be considered landscaping and can increase the value of a home.
Engaging a regular landscaping company is frequently regarded as a waste of money. When you consider everything it gives you, however, it's a tremendous, important investment when you consider the benefits.
Here are the Effects of House Maintenance and Landscaping on House Value:
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1. Extension of Economic Age
Appraisers consider economic life when determining depreciation i.e the rate at which the house depreciates. A well-kept house with a long and healthy economic age will degrade at a slower rate than a poorly maintained house, helping to preserve value.
Conscientious upkeep, in the same manner as additions, upgrades, and appreciation all work to boost the value of a home; but it does not translate into greater property values, according to an experienced assessor. Adequate maintenance has an impact on an appraiser's assessment of a property's economic life i.e the number of years a house is predicted to last.
2. When Selling, it Maximizes Curb Appeal
The first impression of a place is determined by curb appeal. It refers to the level of appeal that a property has when viewed from the street or in listing images. The outside of a house may tell you a lot about what to expect from the interior and whether it's even worth looking at. If you consider a property to be an asset, not utilizing the outside means you're not getting the most out of it.
Taking steps to improve a weary scenery before your next open house could mean the difference between selling at or above the asking price. If you've recently purchased a home and want to make a sensible long-term investment, landscaping will boost the value of your home over time.
3. It is Profitable
It's akin to going to the gym for a workout. To see any results, you must work hard. Houses and persons are quite similar in this sense. The older they get, the more work they need to do. The 1% increase in value is usually offset by continuous maintenance costs.
Maintenance is costly, but it is probably best to say that any continual care has the net impact of slowing down the depreciation rate.
4. It Makes Renting More Difficult
It will be difficult for the owner of a poorly kept house to get tenants. If they are successful in finding tenants, it will be those who are unable to find better housing. Such tenants are far more prone to default on rent and bills, as well as cause more property damage.
Even if the landlord is lucky enough to find a suitable tenant, the individual is unlikely to stay for the long haul. Owners who neglect their rental properties are sabotaging their own business.
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5. Failure of Investment
The failure of the owner's investment is caused by poor rental property maintenance. People buy a rental property for a variety of reasons, including rental income and value appreciation. These advantages are mainly reliant on how effectively a property is cared for.
A property that is not well maintained cannot be profitable. Even if it earns rental income, it wouldn't be enough to cover the property's operating expenditures. And when the property is eventually sold, the owner may lose money.
6. Uncontrolled Depreciation
Property owners maintain control over the depreciation value of the investment through routine maintenance. The owner keeps more of the property's initial worth by keeping up with maintenance and making essential upgrades. Wear and tear are accelerated due to poor maintenance.
If worn-out appliances and worn-out portions of a home are not repaired, the property's value will suffer as a result.
7. Increased Operating Costs
A poorly kept property is more expensive to run. It is more prone to damage, and appliances fail more frequently. Since the deterioration is not identified early due to the owner's neglect, repairs are also more expensive. Faults are less expensive to rectify if identified early.
However, if they are allowed to progress, these will have an impact on other systems and areas of the house. This is how little issues can lead to major property damage.
What Do We Do?
When it comes to purchasing or selling a house, the value of appropriate landscape design and management cannot be stressed! In addition to increasing home value, competent landscape design and management:
Residents' quality of life is improved.
It reduces stress, improves comfort and community, and lowers noise pollution
Stormwater runoff is collected and filtered.
If needed, it provides shade and privacy.
In the summer, it helps to keep buildings and dwellings cool.
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Consider contacting <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">The Hansen Team</a> for some assistance with real estate and housing. The <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/">Hansen Team</a> provides the highest levels of privacy, security, speed, and efficiency. Years of full-time experience have given us a deep awareness of the regional market and a good comprehension of the attitude toward house buying and selling.
Our house listing business is simple and we enjoy taking on new and interesting projects to help you get your home looking the best.2022-05-19T07:00:00-07:002022-05-16T12:15:23-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:28834How To Prepare the Exterior of Your Home for a HurricaneIf you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you’re all too familiar with the national weather warnings that pop up on cell phones and TV screens before one hits the shore.
Staying informed on the weather is critical when you live to keep your family safe from potentially dangerous storms.
It shouldn’t stop there, though. You also have to decide whether or not to evacuate your home. And you can’t take your home with you, so it’s extremely important to give our home the best protection from a hurricane to ensure the least amount of damage.
There are plenty of things you can do to prepare the inside of your house, like safeguarding electronics and installing heavy-duty bolts, but the exterior of the home is the first line of defense against a powerful storm and should have the most protection.
Starting the preparation process as soon as possible is crucial because it doesn’t take a long time for a hurricane to hit land.
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You could have some significant repairs or replacements to do to fully protect the home that aren’t able to be done in a matter of days, leaving your home exposed to the torrential downpour and dangerous winds.
Before you go through the preparation checklist, consider the risks that come with leaving your home vulnerable to hurricanes.
Know the Risks
Failing to prepare the exterior of your home for a hurricane can have disastrous consequences.
On top of the danger to your family, you could be facing significant water and structural damage that takes thousands of dollars and hours of labor to repair without proper preparations.
Luckily, there are five steps you can take to make sure the outside of your home is as protected as possible from a hurricane.
Check The Roof
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The roof is very vulnerable to the onslaught of a hurricane so it should be the first thing you check when preparing for one. Make sure all of the shingles are solid and secured to the roof and make any repairs or replacements as needed. If they feel brittle or loose, they need to be replaced.
Many homeowners install metal roof straps, or hurricane straps, to provide significant protection from the intense weather. These connectors strengthen the frame of your home and greatly increase its chances of surviving tropical storms.
Hurricane straps are so effective that they’re required by some cities’ construction codes. They’re the best protection you can give your home for weathering a hurricane.
While you’re on the roof, check the gutters and drain pipes. This is arguably the most important step in preparing your home for a hurricane, or any heavy rainstorm. Garages and basements can be flooded within a matter of minutes if gutters and downspouts aren’t cleared.
Protect the Entrance
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The entrances to your home are the gateways between you and the storm outside and therefore are the most vulnerable. Broken glass, flooding, and structural damage are just a few of the things that can go wrong with a hurricane.
Check the walls, windows, and doors for damages. These could be as simple as a small gap between a window and a wall or more severe like a broken door.
No matter the size of the damages, they all need to be repaired before a hurricane or it could make matters extremely worse for you.
Once they’ve been checked and/or repaired, doors and windows need to be properly reinforced so they can withstand the impending storm.
The most common way to do this is to cover the doors and windows with plywood. It’s cheap and easy to install and does a great job of shielding entrances from the weather.
Many people go above and beyond by installing storm shutters over their windows to and doors to provide extra protection from the harsh elements. The metal shields are very effective but they take time to install, so they aren’t a good last-minute option for defense.
Additional reinforcements include installing storm panels to doors, using hurricane window film, or fitting your windows with high-impact glass.
The last and most difficult door to deal with is the garage door, as it is well-known as a particularly weak spot on the house’s exterior.
Maintain Landscaping
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This may sound odd, considering it all might be destroyed if the storm is powerful enough, but maintaining your yard is crucial to reducing the potential damage of a hurricane.
The most important part of preparing your landscaping for a hurricane is trimming your trees and hedges. Every loose branch should be removed and overhanging limbs trimmed to keep the foliage as far away from your home as possible. A large tree branch hanging over your front porch is a disaster waiting to happen during a hurricane.
Pick up any solid clutter like branches or sticks off the ground as these can also become projectiles.
Strap down or put away any moveable objects in your landscaping to prevent objects from flying around. Garbage cans, trellises, free-standing fire pits, bird baths, feeders, lawn ornaments, or potted plants can easily be thrown around by the storm’s winds and become dangerous projectiles.
Lastly, make any necessary repairs to fencing or structures in your yard. Loose fence posts or leaning trees are catastrophes waiting to happen in a hurricane. Don’t forget sheds, raised garden beds, and treehouses.
Go on Leak Patrol
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Every corner of your home’s exterior should be checked for leaks. Damaging amounts of water can come through a tiny leak during a hurricane if it’s not properly sealed, so just imagine how much worse it would be with multiple leaks.
Check that every window and door are sealed. Use caulk or minimal-expanding foam to fill in the gaps and cracks leading to the outside of the home.
For doors, replace faulty hinges and repair doorknobs. Use weather stripping or foam-rubber backer rods for other gaps.
To check for leaks from the outside, look for unexplainable puddles or soggy patches in the lawn. If you notice this, you could have a leak in the main water line leading to your house. Puddles that are far away from the main line usually mean a leak in the irrigation system.
The last place to look for a leak is the outdoor faucets. You can tell if they’re leaking by turning the water on for a little and then turning it off. The leak will present itself.
Repair any leaky pipes or faucets before a hurricane for the best chance of preventing potentially severe water damage to your home.
Guard the Garage
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If not properly prepared, the garage can be a disastrous place during a hurricane. Water that floods in can potentially ruin stored items, and, if let sitting for too long, can severely damage the drywall, foundation, or other structural components of the home.
The garage door, specifically, is where a hurricane situation can go from bad to worse. Most garage doors are made with lightweight metal so it can be raised and lowered easily. This means that they are much weaker than any other type of door in your house.
Many people, especially in areas prone to hurricanes, purchase wind-resistant or impact-resistant garage doors to radically increase their home’s protection.
If you can’t invest in one of these types of doors, consider purchasing a metal brace kit. These metal bars are secured behind the garage door to reinforce it and are very good at doing so, but flimsy or cheap garage doors might still be damaged.
Sandbags are a great way to continue the fortification of the garage (or any other doorway to the house), especially if there are gaps in between the door and the wall. Line them up along the outside of your garage door snugly fit against each other for the best protection.
Lastly, consider covering any other openings into the garage, like windows. If your garage has windows or additional doors to the outside, make sure they are sealed or boarded up with plywood before the storm.
Are You Prepared?
If you’ve completed all five steps above, then the exterior of your house is ready for the storm. You’ve fitted it with the best possible defenses and it now has the best chance for withstanding the hurricane.
Preparing the exterior of your home is the most important step to ensuring your family’s safety from the storm. You shouldn’t let your home face a hurricane without doing so, or you could be facing major damages.
Before you head inside and brace yourselves from the storm, don't forget to enclose yourself in the safest home possible!2022-05-05T09:05:00-07:002022-05-09T10:27:18-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:28775Living the Good Life in SeasideThe official motto of this town is “A Simple, Beautiful Life”, but you will go on to discover that you can live the good life that you want in Seaside. Classified as a “New Urbanist” kind of town, Seaside offers a great variety of things to do, with most of those things being within walking distance. Walking from one place of interest to another has its advantages in Seaside, a town that gives you the sugary white beaches of Florida along with intriguing events that are worth checking out.
General Summary
Located in Walton County, Seaside is considered to be part of the Santa Rosa Beach Metropolitan area. Conveniently sitting in between better known cities like Panama City Beach and Destin, Seaside is an unincorporated master-planned community. This means that it was carefully planned from its very inception and is mainly constructed on previously undeveloped land. The town’s elevation is officially 13 feet, and its beaches are immediately adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico, giving both residents and visitors alike advantageous views of the open seas.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Seaside_1.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />
Seaside is one of the prime subjects of the New Urbanism architectural movement, which is an urban design method that promotes environmentally friendly habits by creating neighborhoods that are walkable. This design method opens up a wide range of housing and job types. The roots of New Urbanism are based on principles such as Traditional Neighborhood Development and Transit-Oriented Development.
History
Robert Smolian Davis was the founder of Seaside as he came up with the idea of the community in 1946 when his grandfather J. Smolian bought 80 acres of land next to Seagrove Beach. The intent was to make a summer camp for the employees of Pizitz, a department store. Davis’s father-in-law Louis Pizitz, the store owner, was considered to be a wise merchant in the area.
In 1978 Davis received the parcel from his grandfather as part of his inheritance, and moves would be made to start building an old-fashioned beach town. With the help of Duany Plater-Zyberk & Company, an architecture and town planning firm, Davis was able to create a functional plan that took years to finalize from 1981 to 1985. The first two cottages would be built in Seaside in 1981, which became known as the Yellow House and the Red House. The Red House served as the sales office of the Davis family while the Yellow House was their residence.
The urban code of Seaside has changed considerably over the years, undergoing multiple revisions. There are a total of <a href="https://seaside.library.nd.edu/essays/the-code">8 different code types of Seaside</a>, according to the University of Notre Dame’s School of Architecture and Hesburgh Libraries. The design of the town encourages creative complexity as individual housing units are required to be different from other buildings, whether the design styles be Victorian, New Classical, Modern or Postmodern, as examples.
There are a few rules in place regarding the town’s code. The goal is to ensure that each house built in Seaside’s neighborhoods will continue the regional building tradition and will maintain the coherence, cohesion, and the strong sense of place that characterizes towns like Nantucket, Cape May, Charleston, and Savannah.
Things To Do in Seaside
One of the fondest memories Robert Smolian Davis had as a kid in the 1940s was when his grandfather took him to the local coffee shop in Seaside. That coffee shop helped lay the foundation for what would be reoccurring success stories in restaurants calling Seaside home.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Seaside_2.png" width="600" height="400" />
Today there are fantastic options for eating out in Seaside, including <a href="https://www.budandalleys.com/">Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurants</a>. Founded in 1986, Bud & Alley’s was originally named after a pet dog and cat. It is the oldest restaurant in South Walton and is considered by many to be a favorite gathering spot. A family of 4 different restaurants make up the Bud & Alley’s brand as they have the original restaurant, the <a href="https://www.budandalleys.com/roof-deck-bar/">Roof Deck Bar</a>, the <a href="https://www.budandalleyspizzabar.com/">Pizza Bar</a>, and the <a href="https://www.budandalleys.com/taco-bar/">Taco Bar.</a>
The Breakfast Menu for the main restaurant features delicious meals such as the Crab cake Benedict, the Blackened Grouper, and Steak and Eggs. The Lunch Menu provides great options including the Chickpea Hummus, Smoked Tuna Dip and Sweet Potato Fries for small plates,. Sandwiches include the Grilled Veggie Sandwich and the House Made Chicken Salad Sandwich. Main entrees include the Grilled Fish of the Day and the Panned Chicken Breast. Dinner entrees include the Roasted Skuna Bay Salmon and the Grilled 14-ounce Ribeye.
Another great restaurant is located on 2236 East County Highway 30A, and it specializes in Cuban cuisine. <a href="https://www.cocinacubana30a.com/">Cocina Cubana</a> gives you the chance to be creative in what kind of bowl of food you want. On their main menu, you can have your own created bowl for the reasonable price of $13. You can have Yellow or White Rice for your base, or it can be Couscous and Quinoa. Sweet Potato Picadillo can be your bowl’s source of protein, and you can add veggies like Parmesan Brussels Sprouts, Diced Tomatoes or Roasted Corn. Toppers include Cotija Cheese, Papaya Salsa and Chile Mustard. There is also a special menu available if you prefer vegan, dairy free or gluten free meals.
If you appreciate fine art, then you would love to see what the <a href="https://www.fusionartglass.com/">Fusion Art Glass Gallery</a> has going on in Seaside! Glass artist Russ Gilbert founded this gallery in 1996, and it has become a great headquarters for at least 150 North American artists. Its emphasis is on small, independent studios and craftmanship that you can’t get anywhere else. The Fusion Art Glass Gallery is open everyday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Sensational works of art are on display in this gallery as various bowls, kaleidoscopes, paperweights, sculptures, figures, vases and vessels make up the art glass you will see.
Considered to be one of the best shopping locations in all of Seaside, <a href="https://www.sundogbooks.com/">Sundog Books</a> is a conventional bookstore that keeps the activity of reading books fun! Established in 1986, this store is family owned and independent and offers a wide variety of books. You can find books on the town of Seaside and the state of Florida. You can also find children’s books and books for young adults. Sundog Books also has its own gift shop where you can buy Sundog Books gear like round belly mugs and T-shirts.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Seaside_3.png" width="600" height="400" />
Carrying toys, children’s clothing and silly stuff in between, <a href="https://www.shopduckies.com/">Duckies Shop of Fun</a> is a pleasant pit stop where children can enjoy their surroundings and have fun while the whole family shops. Ranging from bags and baskets to stuffed animals and miniature cars, Duckies has just about anything children of all ages would love to play with. You can also get art supplies, jigsaw puzzles, books, and the shop’s signature rubber ducks for the kids!
Right next door to Duckies is a shop specifically for parents. That shop is called <a href="https://www.ishop30a.com/">Mercantile</a>, a place that carries goods for both men and women that are time-worn, weathered, American made, and even eco-friendly. Clothing apparel, accessories, jewelry, candles, coasters, and greeting cards are just some of the many items you can purchase at Mercantile.
Seaside provides direct access to the beach, but it would be nice to be prepared when it comes to making sandcastles! Thankfully, <a href="https://beachsandsculptures.com/">sandcastle lessons</a> are available if you are interested in becoming a talented sand artist. Fun for the whole family, you can book a sandcastle lesson that will last for 2 hours. Available times for these lessons are from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. You can book lessons for groups as large as 20 people, and children ages 4 and under with a participating adult get lessons for free.
Real Estate
While there is an abundance of things to do in the small town of Seaside, there is a less than pleasant truth you will have to face if you plan on calling Seaside your permanent hometown. The cost of buying a home in Seaside is ultra expensive. If you are young and can work hard and save up enough money, or if you are older and retired and already have enough money, then you can acquire a home in Seaside.
Preferably for the most wealthy of families, the most expensive home to buy in Seaside contains 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, and it stretches out to 5,335 square feet of space. This home is located on <a href="https://search.beachgroupflorida.com/idx/details/listing/c114/891273/2182-E-County-Hwy-30A-Santa-Rosa-Beach-FL-32459?widgetReferer=true&pid=34#/">2182 East County Highway 30A</a> and costs a whopping $13,600,000. For the smallest of homes that are available, which are 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes, the average buying price would be $172,500. This excludes one home located on <a href="https://www.discoveremeraldcoast30ahomes.com/homes/fl/santa-rosa-beach/ecarresd89565620220413215847162081000000/70-dogwood-st-santa-rosa-beach-fl-32459">70 Dogwood Street</a>, which costs $1,749,000. The average price of buying a 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is $2,697,500. The average price of buying a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home is $1,798,500.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Seaside_4.png" width="600" height="400" />
One reason why Seaside is more of an isolated small town is because of its high housing prices, but because of its intricate design and commitment to its special code, these prices seem very much necessary.
Conclusion
Housing prices notwithstanding, there is plenty of potential to be realized if you plan on living the good life in Seaside. Your living experience is greatly supported with many things to do, and in an area where the weather is normally warm and favorable for most of the year. Seaside is overall a pleasant small town loaded with history that is admirable and worth sharing with others who wish to move into the area. If you want to have the chance of a living a simple, beautiful life in northwestern Florida, Seaside could be the best destination for you. 2022-04-21T07:12:00-07:002022-05-04T10:51:01-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:28327Retire in Style at Eden IsleJust before you enter downtown New Orleans you will notice a comfortable suburb that is positioned between North Shore and Howze Beach. That suburb is Eden Isle, and it provides some of the best views of the Louisiana Bayou that you can dream of. Offering a little bit of everything, Eden Isle is a fantastic dwelling place if you want to stay outside the big city.
General Summary
Located in St. Tammany Parish, Eden Isle is a small town with an estimated population of 7,369. According to <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/eden-isle-st-tammany-la/">Niche</a>, Eden Isle has a median home value $293,300, which is $65,800 above the national average. Its median rent price for a home is $1,138, which is only $76 above the national average. When it comes to either renting or owning a property, Eden Isle heavily leans in favor of being an owner’s market as 73% of residents own their property as opposed to 27% that are renting their homes.
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Eden Isle has very impressive Niche rankings for a small town. It ranks as the 48th best suburb to live in the state of Louisiana, and it ranks as the 27th best suburb for young professionals in Louisiana. However, Eden Isle is considered to be one of the most desirable places for retirees as it ranks as the 5th best place to retire in the state of Louisiana.
According to <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/eden+isle-la/">Areavibes</a>, Eden Isle has an overall livability score of 75, having a cost of living that is 12% above the national average. Breaking down goods and services, prices are generally fair in Eden Isle as you only have to pay $19.39 ($0.77 more than the national average) for a haircut, $10.93 ($0.25 more than the national average) to watch a movie at the theater, and $15.83 ($1.16 more than the national average) to go bowling. The average mortgage payment you would have to make for your home is $1,191.22, which is 0.5% ($6.20) below the national average.
Diversity
Eden Isle is predominantly a community for retirees who are looking to settle down and relax. The majority of residents in this town consist of people who are ages 65 or older, which make up 25% of the town. In general, Eden Isle favors older residents as a combined 61% are in the age range from 45 to over 65 years. A combined 22% of the town consists of adults from the ages of 25 to 44 years. Children of the ages 17 and under only make up a combined 14% of the town.
What To Do in Eden Isle
Eden Isle has options that you can appreciate when it comes to things to do. Ranging from restaurants to physical activities, you can spend an entire day knowing that you will have a satisfying time.
One restaurant that you should stop by is located on Pontchartrain Drive, and it is called <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-landing-slidell">The Landing Bar and Grill</a>. The only catch is that only adults ages 21 and older are allowed inside, and only cash payments are accepted. However, the food and services here are amazing. You can start off with nachos as an appetizer, and then have the signature wings along with either buffalo sauce, barbecue sauce or the homemade Landing Sauce. Dinner plates include steak, chicken or cheese quesadillas, tuna tacos, and the Grilled Tuna Plate.
A few blocks away from the heart of Eden Isle is <a href="https://thebluecrabnorthshore.com/">The Blue Crab Northshore</a>, a seafood restaurant that offers a comfortable dining experience. You will get exceptional service and a clean environment every time you go to this place. For appetizers, you can have raw oysters, chargrilled oysters, Chicken Buffalo Bites or Crabmeat au Gratin. If you prefer salads, you have tasty options in meals like the Caesar Salad, Wedge Salad, and Gulf Salad, which has fresh field greens with cucumber, tomato, carrot, shaved red onions, and bell peppers. Main meals include the Fresh Gulf Fish, the Whole Stuffed Flounder, the Ground Brisket Burger, and the Fried Oyster Po-boy.
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Also close to the heart of Eden Isle is a pleasant golf course where you can throw together fun outings and events with friends and family. <a href="http://www.oakharborgolf.com/">The Oak Harbor Golf Club</a> offers a wide variety of things to do, including a practice facility where you can work on your golf swing, a pro shop where you can buy golfing equipment, and a clubhouse where you can sit back and relax in. If you plan on having a group outing, the Oak Harbor Golf Club can assist you in providing the best golfing experience possible. You get free promotion of your event, lodging within minutes, and a patio and grill room readily made available. The golf course itself is fairly challenging as it offers both short and long distances between holes.
Employment
Based on the combination of employment rates, job and business growth, and the cost of living, Eden Isle has received a B+ overall from Niche in the jobs category. When it comes to employment, Areavibes gives Eden Isle an overall B- grade. The income per capita that Eden Isle employees make is $42,829, which is $17,314 above the Louisiana state average and 44% ($13,000) above the national average. The combined median household income (Niche and Areavibes together) Eden Isle employees make is approximately $73.726, which is $14,643 above the combined national average. The local unemployment rate in Eden Isle is 3%, which is 36% below the national average.
There is a considerable difference between employees that are homeowners and those who pay rent on their homes. According to Areavibes, the median income for homeowners is $72,095, which is $12,703 above the Louisiana state average. The median income for renters is $42,700, which is $15,587 above the Louisiana state average.
The median earnings per male employee in Eden Isle is $67,935, which is $29,848 above the Louisiana state average and $31,016 above the national average. The median earnings per female employee is $36,003, which is $13,094 above the Louisiana state average and $9,753 above the national average. Compared side by side, female employees in Eden Isle consistently make better earnings than male employees ranging from under $10,000 to $65,000. An overwhelming 73.8% of female employees have median earnings in this range. However, a combined 53.1% of male employees have median earnings in a range from $65,000 to over $100,000.
When it comes to employment by industry, there is enough representation in just about every type of industry. Most male employees in Eden Isle work in the construction industry as 15.9% make up that workforce. Following close behind is the wholesale and retail services industry where 14.9% of male employees reside. 11.7% of male employees work in the transportation, warehousing and utilities industry. The majority of female employees in Eden Isle work in education, health and social services as 34.9% reside in this industry. An interesting side note is that 7.6% of female employees work in the construction industry.
Crime and Safety
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Being an enclosed small town, Eden Isle can lay claim to the fact that it has a great ability of fighting crime. Areavibes has awarded Eden Isle with an A grade in the crime category. The total crime rate in Eden Isle is an estimated 1,146 per 100,000 people, which is 2,378 less people than the Louisiana state average, and a significant 51% below the national average. When it comes to property crime, there have been an estimated 938 per 100,000 people involved, which is 1,946 less people than the Louisiana state average, and a significant 52% below the national average. For violent crimes, an estimated 208 per 100,000 people in Eden Isle have been involved, which is 431 less people than the Louisiana state average, and 46% less than the national average.
Schools
If you are looking for an adequate public school system for your children, then Eden Isle has such a system in place. An overwhelming 92.4% of Eden Isle students have completed the 8th grade level of school, which is 12.2% above the Louisiana state average and 7.9% above the national average. 91.1% of students have gotten their high school diploma in Eden Isle, which is an impressive 12.6% above the Louisiana state average and 8.1% above the national average.
The outlook for collegiate success is positive as 65.2% of Eden Isle students have completed some college, which is 15.3% above the Louisiana state average and 5.8% above the national average. 39.3% of students have obtained an associate degree, which is 10.7% above the Louisiana state average and 0.8% above the national average. 32.8% of students have obtained a bachelors degree, which is 9.8% above the Louisiana state average and 2.5% above the national average. 13.9% of students have obtained a master degree, which is 6% above the Louisiana state average and 2.4% above the national average.
Conclusion
Right before you enter downtown New Orleans, there is an opportunity to be claimed when you explore through Eden Isle. Whether you are settling down in retirement and need a relaxing place to go, or if you are a young professional and desire a new challenge, then Eden Isle has the right mix of what you are looking for. Eden Isle has plenty of upside depending on what your personal needs are, and you can make enough of a living to make a positive impact in this quiet suburb. With enough things to do in the area and crime not being a factor, Eden Isle can be your ideal destination.2022-04-07T08:56:00-07:002022-04-07T13:51:10-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:27856Getting Your Yard Ready for SpringSpring is right around the corner, so you will need to make the right preparations to enjoy the season. The outdoor spaces you have in your yard play an important part of having an enjoyable and comfortable landscape. Depending on where you live, the winters can either be long and frigid or short and mild. Whether you live in a warmer climate state like Florida or in a colder climate state like Minnesota, you need to have a plan in place to get your yard ready and clean for the spring. Here are the following tips for getting your yard ready for the spring.
1) Clean Up Any Yard Debris
Leaves, branches, and various other debris will need to be removed before you can consider any other kind of landscaping. Leaves and branches will always be falling over during the winter months, so it’s wise to monitor the grounds of your yard to see how much of these objects have fallen. Remove old debris early and often so that light and oxygen can access the grass underneath. You will also avoid problems involving moisture and insect breeding by removing debris. Any trash or unsightly items need to be removed from your yard right away.
2) Treat Your Lawn
A healthy lawn for the entire year requires early treatment. One of the best ways to make your lawn happy is to apply fertilizer early. This will give your grass a jump-start in the early months of the year, giving it the necessary nutrients to grow strong early. However, you don’t want to apply too much fertilizer because that can potentially harm your grass.
A simple watering of your trees and plants, along with your lawn, also helps. Especially if precipitation is light and the ground is dry, watering your yard will give it the boost of health it needs.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Spring_1.png" width="600" height="400" />
3) Increase Curb Appeal
It is easy to increase the curb appeal of your home if you use medium-sized shrubs with shallow root systems. These shrubs are known as “house huggers” and they tend to hide unappealing cement, giving your home the outward appearance of being grounded in the landscape. Shrub plants that are highly recommended for using at the front of your home include Juniper, Spruce, Boxwood, Inkberry, Viburnum, Deutzia and Weigela.
4) Plan for Planting and Soil Preparations
Along with general cleaning, planting and soil prep are equally important for the upcoming gardening season. Create a plan for what you are going to do for your lawn. Ask local gardening experts for advice and recommendations on which plants and flowers work best in your area. It is best to remain local when you shop for plants and flowers. Before you decide to plant anything, map out where exactly you are going to do the majority of your planting.
5) Mulch and Plant
If you normally have flower beds or a garden, then spring is the ideal time of year to put down a heavy layer of mulch. You will replenish your flower beds by adding new mulch, and it also provides an additional layer of protection against hindrances like weeds and grass intrusion. Dead branches should also be trimmed back if you have plants that struggled to survive the winter. If you start planting shrubs in the early spring, make sure you choose frost-tolerant plants that can endure the early spring weather.
Here is a word of caution concerning mulch; Try your very best to avoid piling too much mulch up against any fence lines. If this occurs, this can lead to problems involving mold or mildew, and if your fence is made of wooden materials it can be left vulnerable to rot and water damage due to the mulch. Make sure your fence is either fully clear of making any contact with your mulch, or at least barely touching it.
6) Organize and Refresh Gardening Tools
Get your gardening tools ready by cleaning and sharpening them. After removing all the unnecessary objects from your yard, any equipment you have for landscaping must be organized in the appropriate place. Whether that be inside a garage, a shed or a barn, keep track of where your tools and equipment are so you can be able to do your yard work in a timely manner. This practice teaches you to have better organizational skills and it helps improve the safety of your property.
7) Prune Your Trees Correctly<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Spring_2.png" width="600" height="400" />
There are a few rules to follow when pruning your trees. The first rule is to be mindful of a tree’s leaves. The leaf is the source of the tree’s food supply, so try your best not to remove more than 25% of a tree’s leaves when pruning.
The second rule is to know more about how and where you make pruning cuts than when you make them. This means that you have to be delicate when your prune a tree, and you have to be aware of the positioning of your cuts. Cutting down half of the tree is not ideal.
The third rule is to aim small, miss small. Make your cuts smaller in diameter because trees can seal over pruning cuts by adding new growth. Larger gashes of cuts result in longer healing times for the tree. Smaller cuts take much less time to close in comparison.
8) Keep a Gardening Journal
While you are performing tasks in getting your yard ready for spring, it is wise to keep track of what you are doing. The best way to do this is to keep a gardening journal so that you can identify what has been done, and what still needs to get done. A gardening journal helps in planning for the upcoming season as it allows you to review past weather patterns, frost dates, watering schedules, and plot arrangements. For example, if you have a short list of things to do to spruce up your yard throughout one week, you can schedule all these things as separate tasks on different days of the week.
9) Replace Old Yard Features
If you have pre-existing yard features that have been around for a couple years, it is possible to freshen them up. However, once these features have reached the end of their lifespan, you need to start planning for life after these features. Removal by demolition always helps, but you can also carefully disassemble certain features so that the process won’t be so messy. Old fences, decks, pools, sheds, and barns are all considered to be yard features that can be demolished.
10) Select Plants that Fit Your Climate
Lastly, if you are going to spruce up your yard by adding many beautiful plants, you have to find the ones that are the most appropriate. In other words, select plants that will be the best fit for the climate you live in. Research your USDA growing zone before you start buying new plants. Whether you are aiming to design a landscape that is low-maintenance, water-wise, or drought-tolerant, knowing which growing zones work best for certain plants will give you a better idea of what to purchase.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Spring_3.png" width="600" height="400" />
For more information on how to research USDA growing zones, check out <a href="https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/Native_Plant_Materials/Native_Gardening/hardinesszones.shtml">this link</a>.
To Reseed or Not Reseed?
This optional tip is highly dependent on the climate area you live in. When it comes to certain circumstances where it’s unavoidable, reseeding your lawn in the spring may be the only option. However, if you can avoid reseeding your lawn, then please do so.
The reason why is because it is impossible to reseed alongside pre-emergent treatment of crabgrass and weeds. This is especially true if you live in a state like Texas. Pre-emergents prevent all seeds from germinating, and this includes grass seeds. Putting down new seed along with pre-emergents at the same time can only lead to disaster. The best thing to do is to reseed at the beginning of the fall season. Fall to winter is a long enough time period for the seeds to germinate and establish roots.
Contact a Real Estate Expert
Yard maintenance is often an ignored art of sorts. Sometimes we take for granted all the hard work that goes into maintaining a well kept yard. The properties that you see listed on real estate websites do not become gorgeous overnight. It is instead a lengthy process that involves plenty of trial and error.
If you intend to become a seller in the real estate market and you want to make the right preparations for your soon-to-be former home, then <a href="https://www.erikhansenteam.com/contact/">contact our real estate experts</a> on the Hansen Team! Spring is a great season to put your home on the market, but if you don’t get your yard ready by then, you will have more difficulty in selling your property. However, if you follow any of the above tips, you will put yourself in a better position to strike a sale with a happy buyer. If you need assistance in getting your yard ready for the spring, then feel free to contact the Hansen Team today!2022-03-24T09:32:00-07:002022-03-16T15:30:11-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:27854Spring Cleaning and Upkeep ChecklistSpring cleaning brings about a sense of accomplishment and tranquility. It gives us the opportunity to reset and maintain the beauty of our homes. It also keeps us safe. Things like vacuuming the dryer vent, decluttering garages, and replacing batteries are just some of the ways we can reduce fire and health risks by spring cleaning.
Our motivation to clean after the first spring breeze might be a result of biology. Since a lack of sunlight produces more melatonin in our bodies, we are sleepier in winter. Our desire to deep clean in the spring might just be a result of the burst of energy we get from the increasing sunlight.
When the days get brighter and your desire to spring clean grows, you might be wondering what exactly spring cleaning means. For starters, it’s much more labor-intensive than regular cleaning. You have to reach high and low to get every spot and a lot of items have to be moved, replaced, or thrown away. Set aside at least two full days’ worth of time to get it all done.
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Prepare yourself for the deep clean with cleaning gloves, bleach, vinegar, dish soap, microfiber towels, scrub brush, vacuum, sponge, glass cleaner, and baking soda. Let’s dive into the list below for detailed instructions for the spring clean.
Check and Replace
Every year, there are a number of items around the house that you should check for functionality. They’re listed below.
Lighting – Replace any burnt-out bulbs. Consider replacing them with LED bulbs for a longer lifespan and lower energy costs. Dust off every lightbulb, especially the ones outside that accumulate more dirt over time. You can recycle light bulbs, too!
Smoke detector – Check the battery strength of every smoke detector in your house by pressing down on the test button. If the sound is non-existent or weak and not as piercingly loud as it should be, replace the batteries.
Carbon monoxide detector – To test your carbon monoxide detector, look up the manufacturer’s directions. Not only do you have to check the battery levels, but you also have to check if the detector is accurately detecting carbon monoxide. This requires a test kit.
Other battery-powered items – Replace batteries on remote controls, toys, security systems, garage doors, flashlights, etc.
Dust, Dust, Dust
It’s time to grab the stepping stool for some serious dusting. Spring cleaning dusting is far more work than what you’d do on a normal day, but it is important. Too much dust can aggravate asthma and allergy symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and irritated eyes.
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Using a microfiber dusting cloth with an extender, wipe down every inch of ceiling fans. You’ll want to hold something underneath to catch the dust bunnies that will fall as you do this. After that, move on the ceiling, baseboards, curtain rods, and walls. Before doing the walls, remove any hanging decor (if possible) and dust them.
Other places you’ll need to dust are entertainment centers, lamps, blinds, plants, bookshelves, furniture, and around window and door frames. If there are items on surfaces, remove and dust them before returning them to their place. Now you can truly breathe in that fresh spring air.
Windows, Doors, and Walls
Things we touch often build up grease and grime over time. This is especially true for doors, windows, and walls with porous surfaces. Using hot, soapy water, wipe down every inch of them. When you’re done, rinse them with a damp cellulose sponge. Finish windows off with glass cleaner.
Take special care to clean doorknobs, door frames, screens, and the tracks the windowpanes slide on. You can use a vacuum to suck up any debris in the tracks before wiping them out.
You might have to do some additional maintenance. Check for tears in window screens, broken locks, and gaps between the window and the wall. Door hinges may need to be tightened or oiled to stop squeaking noises. Touch up scuffs and permanent stains with paint.
Cabinets, Drawers, and Pantries
For a deep clean, remove everything from cabinets, pantries, and drawers and clean or dust those items, especially the bottoms.
When you tackle the pantry, throw out any expired products and unnecessary items. That old, stale box of cereal can go. So can that strange can of mushrooms that’s been there since the kids were born. Check the expiration date on yeast, baking soda and powder, flour, and coffee beans. Once you’ve cleaned it out, return the items with an organization system in mind.
Treated wood can be cleaned with a gentle cleanser like a vinegar and water solution. Use a microfiber cloth so too much moisture isn’t left sitting on the wood.
Appliances
Dust and clean appliances and check them for functionality. This includes the humidifier, radio, TV, clocks, microwave, and any other small appliances in the kitchen like the coffee maker or air fryer.
Run a cleaning cycle on your washing machine and dishwasher using a cup of vinegar to disinfect and deodorize them. Use baking soda and vinegar to clean the garbage disposal. Vacuum out the dryer’s vents, traps, and drum and replace the air filters on your air conditioner and heater. Doing these things will get rid of possible dangers caused by unmaintained appliances like mold and fire.
The Oven
When you’re ready to tackle the kitchen, start with the oven. Remove the racks and wash them thoroughly. Use a special oven cleaner or a homemade cleaner with vinegar and baking soda for the interior. Let the cleaner sit for as long as the label suggests or for 1-2 hours if using a homemade solution
Once you’ve cleaned the inside of your oven, wipe down the exterior using hot, soapy water. You can scrub grates with a baking soda paste if you have a gas oven. Pull the oven out and clean the area behind it. Don’t forget to wipe down the sides of the counters that are now exposed with the oven pulled out.
Lastly, deep clean the range hood. Scrub it with a brush using a baking soda and water paste. Wipe it away and finish it off with an additional wipe down using vinegar and water or a cleaning spray.
The Refrigerator
The CDC has<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/pdfs/5-steps-to-clean-your-refrigerator.pdf"> </a><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/pdfs/5-steps-to-clean-your-refrigerator.pdf">special guidelines</a> for cleaning and sanitizing the inside of a refrigerator. Start by removing all of the items inside and throwing away any expired food. Wipe down any containers for the items you’re keeping, especially the spouts of condiment bottles.
Remove the shelves and drawers and wash them with hot, soapy water. Use the same to wipe down every inch of the now-empty fridge. Once you’ve done that, make a solution of 1 tablespoon bleach and 1 gallon of water to wipe down the inside of the fridge again. This will kill off any remaining bacteria.
Dry off the interior, shelves, and drawers completely. Don’t leave any moisture inside. Now you can return everything to its place.
Lastly, if possible, pull the refrigerator out and clean behind it thoroughly. Don’t forget the sides and the top of the fridge. Most importantly, vacuum the coils on the back. This helps keep the refrigerator cool more efficiently.
The Bathroom
Cleaning the bathroom requires the most elbow grease. Start by throwing the shower curtain, bath mats, and towels into the washer. Replace the shower curtain liner with a new one.
Using a strong cleaner like diluted bleach breaks down scum and sanitizes surfaces. Thoroughly scrub every inch of bathtubs, showers, sinks, grout, and floors. Dust and wipe down walls, baseboards, wall décor, countertops, cupboards, and faucets. Reseal grout if necessary.
When cleaning the toilet, use a toothbrush to scrub the hinges and other hard-to-reach places. Remove the seat for cleaning, including the screws, before reattaching. Using a bleach solution, wipe down every inch of the toilet on all sides.
Soak the showerhead in a bag of vinegar overnight. Only soak it for 20 minutes if your showerhead has a finish on it. The vinegar will break down calcium deposits and get rid of germs.
Remove everything from the medicine cabinet, shower caddy, and storage areas. Throw away expired medicine, makeup, and unused items. Wipe down the inside and outside of storage areas before putting items back.
Lastly, flip off the circuit breaker and remove the front of the bathroom vent and clean it. Vacuum the fan blades and remove as much dust as you can from the motor and other crevices. Replace the vent cover.
Rooms
At this point, all of your windows, walls, furniture, and wall hangings have been dusted and cleaned. Every surface in every room should be wiped down, mirrors should be cleaned, and fabrics washed. These include sheets, curtains, blankets, towels, and furniture. Sanitize every electronic device, light switch, doorknob, and handle in the house.
Maintaining your mattress is important for extending its lifespan for as long as possible and keeping you healthy. Starting one side at a time, vacuum and spot clean the mattress with a solution made from laundry detergent, dish soap or enzyme cleaner, baking soda, and water. Once the spots are dry, sprinkle the mattress with baking soda, let it sit for 15 minutes, and then vacuum it again. Flip and rotate it from its original position before putting on fresh bedding.
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Take out everything under beds and throw away junk. Vacuum or sweep thoroughly before returning items underneath. Organize desks, shelves, end tables, and surfaces. Clean pet cages, bowls, and food containers. Tidy up clutter and open windows to freshen rooms. Since the dusting is done, you can fully appreciate that spring breeze.
Closets
Remove and take stock of everything stored in closets, if possible. Donate or throw away clothes or other items you no longer use. Generally, you want to get rid of any clothing item you haven’t worn in one year, unless it has sentimental value, of course. Wash winter items like gloves before storing and throw away mismatched socks that haven’t seen their other half in a long time.
Once the closet is empty, vacuum and dust every inch. Wipe down walls, baseboards, and surfaces. Sprinkle baking soda or deodorizer on the carpet before vacuuming and shampooing. For hard floors, sweep and mop thoroughly.
This is your opportunity to reorganize. Before returning items to the closet, group similar objects together. Use containers to seal away winter clothes and photo albums. Arrange items in the closet by putting the least used items in the back and the most frequently used items at the front.
The Garage
Spring cleaning the garage might be the most daunting task, but it relieves a lot of stress when your garage is organized. It also greatly reduces the risk of fires, chemical spills, injuries, and pest invasions. Before beginning, open the doors to let fresh air in. Choose a sunny day with little to no breeze for this job.
Starting in one corner, throw out garbage and collect recyclables. Use a tag to mark items for donation or selling. Once trash and junk have been thrown away, take everything out of the garage and organize them into three groups: donate, sell, and keep. Gather every trash can in your house outside and wash them, leaving them out to air dry.
Once the garage is empty, thoroughly sweep it out (some people use leaf blowers). Dust or vacuum every surface like shelves, lights, and walls. Check for damage in the doors, foundation, vents, and any signs of a pest invasion. Call an exterminator if you see signs of pests.
Cover oil stains with cat litter and scrub it out with dish soap and a wire scrub brush. Wash the walls, floors, ceilings, and surfaces with a sponge mop. Let the garage dry out completely before bringing items back in. Fans will speed up the process.
Final Steps
Once you’ve deep cleaned everything else in the house, finish up with the floors. Shake out and wash rugs and mats, laying them out to dry. Hard floors should be thoroughly swept and mopped. Carpets should be vacuumed and shampooed. Move furniture, if possible, to clean the floor underneath. Finish up by washing the baseboards with vinegar and water or a gentle cleaning solution.
When the job is done, your house will have much lower health and safety risks and you will feel rejuvenated in your fresh space. The intense cleaning and organizing may be tiring, but it will greatly reduce stress and open up your schedule to enjoy the warmer months to come. Happy Spring!2022-03-10T10:23:00-07:002022-04-04T15:36:45-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:25850Life, Work & Play in Cantonment, FLLocated about 25 minutes outside of the Pensacola Metro Area is the suburb of Cantonment. Known for being both a beach and military community, Cantonment is becoming a much more popular place to live. Year-round sunshine, a growing job market and a reasonable cost of living are some of the major contributing factors to this boom.
Cantonment is considered a medium-sized suburb, with a population of around 26,410 people. It is comprised of five major neighborhoods, housing a mix of both white and blue-collar workers. It is also ethically diverse, boasting a wide variety of backgrounds from its inhabitants. While the majority of the population report as Caucasian, there is also a large African-American population and many residents with strong roots in English, German, Irish, and Scottish ancestry. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Cantonment_2.png" width="1200" height="800" />
Affordable Living in Florida
Even the most desirable areas in the Cantonment area are still widely affordable to both those looking to buy and those looking to rent in the area. The northwest parts of the city are the most desirable, while the more affordable housing is in the northeast. The average home price in the area is $210,865, falling in well beneath the US median price of $376,286 and also below the state median price of $320,679.
Renting homes in the area is also affordable. The average rent comes in around $1115/month which, according to bestneighborhood.org, puts it in the 45th percentile statewide (median rent in the state is around $1532). While it is not the most affordable town within Escambia County, it is certainly one of the better places to live in the area.
Employment Opportunities
If you’re looking to make Cantonment home, it’s important to understand the job market in the area. With a low unemployment rate of just 4.9% (1.1% below the national average), the area also boasts positive growth of 1.9% in the job market over the past year. The average salary in the area is just over $57,000.
The large military presence in Cantonment makes it the number one industry in the area. The US Air Force, US Navy and US Army supply a large number of jobs to residents. City-Data.com last reported that the healthcare, construction, educational and public administration industries are also common, followed by hospitality, professional & scientific services, and finance & insurance, among others.
Educational Opportunities
The town of Cantonment contains four public schools; Jim Allen Elementary School and Kingsfield Elementary School, both serving PK-5th grade, Ransom Middle School for grades 6-8, and J.M. Tate Senior High School for grades 9-12. The elementary schools rate at a 6/10, while the middle school receives a 5 rating and the high school, a 4. Almost 92% of attending students graduate high school, with 70.7% attending at least some college and 28.2% completing a 4-year degree. The average student to teacher ratio is about 14.5:1.
Many students seeking higher education find themselves at the University of West Florida, a public, 4-year school located in Pensacola. The majority of graduates here seek degrees in health professions, business and computer information sciences.
Other popular higher education facilities in the area are Pensacola State College, Columbia Southern University, James H Faulkner State Community College, Bishop State Community College, Northwest Florida State College, and University of South Alabama.
Safe & Sound
There is something to be said about safety, as well, when it comes to finding your forever home or a vacation spot. Crimegrade.org gives Cantonment an overall A rating, meaning that the crime rate in the area is significantly lower than the average city in the US. There are little to no reports annually of property-related crimes, while violent crimes fall in about standard for most cities in the US. The southeast part of the city is more prone to crimes, particularly in the retail driven areas. Compared to most of the other cities in the area, Cantonment rates very well, overall.
Things to Do in Cantonment and the Surrounding Areas
Being that Cantonment is so close to the bustle of Pensacola, the white, sandy beaches associated with the Northwest portion of Florida and year-round gorgeous weather, you’ll never find yourself lacking for things to do. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Cantonment_1.png" width="600" height="400" />
On the Water: If getting out into the sunshine is your things, spend the day fishing on Becks Lake, charter a boat with Booyah Fishing, or check out one of the many state or local parks nearby. Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola is a 704-acre expanse where you can go enjoy a day hiking, kayaking on the water, or spending the night under the stars. Don’t forget to enjoy our beautiful beaches with a sunset walk or to take advantage of the myriad on-the-water adventures available at the surrounding beaches. From jet skiing to paddle boarding and everything in between, there’s truly something for everybody.
Adventure Seekers: Fast Eddies Fun Center will have your heart racing as you explore go-karts, mini golf, and more! Adventures Unlimited in Milton is another great option, offering kayaking, a lazy river, rafting, canoeing, a ropes course and a zipline, to name a few!
Family Fun: Bring your kids to Triple Play, the local entertainment center or call on your inner Houdini at Escape LOL. The Pensacola Mess Hall is also a great time for family fun where kids can engage in interactive exhibits and experiments exploring science, play, construction and more.
Historians: Looking to add a little education into your trip? The National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola is a great way to do just that! You might also choose to learn more at the Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum or give yourself a healthy scare with a Ghosts and Graveyard Tour of Pensacola.
Foodies: Hungry for something different? Escambia County can take care of that, too! Check out some local favorites, featuring a multitude of different fares. Petrella’s Indian Café, Taco Rock Cantonment (for great Mexican) or traditional, American cuisine at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s. Not what you’re looking for? Head into downtown Pensacola for an amazing selection of fine restaraunts and shopping!
Walkability, Commutability, and Transportation in Cantonment
Being that Cantonment is such a small area, there are no public transportation options available to residents, meaning that the vast majority of people living here rely on their own vehicles. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Cantonment_3.png" width="600" height="400" />
Many local residents work outside of the Cantonment city boundaries, a large group commuting into Pensacola. The average commute time is about 24.3 minutes each way. According to Bestplaces.net, about 81.1% of commuters drive their own car alone, 12.1% carpool and 5.6% work from home.
It’s Time to Come and Check Out Cantonment For Yourself
With its affordability and easy access to Pensacola nightlife, beaches and more, it’s no wonder that Cantonment is becoming a more popular place to call home. Whether you’re planning a quick trip here or you’re ready to take up permanent residence, we want to help you find your perfect place! Reach out today to <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact the Hansen Team</a> and let us show you around!2022-02-28T10:57:00-07:002022-02-08T10:41:00-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:25849Living in Orange Beach, ALAmong the top places to live in Alabama is Orange Beach, a small suburban community with a population of just over 6,000. It has been ranked #1 of 190 of the best places to retire in Alabama and #16, overall, of the best suburbs in Alabama by Niche in a 2021 survey. What makes it such a great place to be? With access to beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, A-rated schools, and a plethora of nightlife, why wouldn’t you want to spend your time here? Read on to learn more about this hidden gem in Baldwin County.
Multiple Water Sources
One of the biggest draws to Orange Beach is its impressive water access. Not only do residents enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, they can also visit the Intracoastal Waterway, Wolf Bay, Ingram Bayou, Roberts Bayou, Arnica Bay, Bay La Launch, Terry Cove, Johnson Cove, Cotton Bayou and Old River. The total area that makes up Orange Beach is only 15.95 square miles and 1.25% of that is water. The various waterways provide ample entertainment to both locals and visitors, alike. The Wharf also boasts the largest ferris wheel in the Southeast, standing at 112-feet tall. Various islands also dot the coastline; Bird Island, Robinson Island, Walker Island, and Gilchrist Island. These untouched spaces provide a relaxing reprieve for boaters and jet skiers to stop and slow down a bit.
Employment Opportunities
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If you plan to call Orange Beach home year-round, you’ll likely want to explore the employment opportunities that exist in the area. The unemployment rate is lower than both state and national averages, falling in at around 5.6% with a positive growth rate of 1.78%. The median household income falls in 8% higher than national average with the income per capita 26% higher than national average.
The bulk of income in the Orange Beach area comes from the entertainment industry (arts, accommodations, restaurants and recreation). In fact, about 20% of all income in the area stems from these services. Education, healthcare and social services follow close behind at 18.4%, trailed slightly by finance & real estate, retail and construction.
Educational Opportunities
There are 11 public schools serving the Orange Beach area, including 5 elementary schools, 4 middle schools and 2 high schools. The district boasts an A- rating with a student/teacher ratio of approximately 17.3:1. The high school graduation rate is about 92.4%, with just under half of graduates moving on to pursue a 4-year degree. There are also four private Christian schools in the area, each serving all grades from K-12.
Housing
Approximately 70% of the homes in the Orange Beach area are owned, while the remaining 30% are rented. According to Zillow, the median home value in the area was approximately $408,839 as of December 2021. This is up 18.3% from the previous year. As of December 2021, Rocket Homes reports that 363 active listings are currently on the market, ranging from 1 bedroom apartments, to larger estates and oceanfront jewels. Listings are averaging about 209 days on the market, with 11 listings sold above asking in December, 27 sold at asking and 69 sold below.
A Safe Community
Another draw to the Orange Beach community is its small-town feel. The area receives a B-rating based on its annual statistics from Niche, though it is not considered one of the safest communities in America. In fact, CrimeGrade.org rates it at a D+ average. The FBI reported in 2022 that the chance of becoming a victim of a property or violent crime is about 1 in 33. That being said, it’s violent crime average of 10.9 falls in considerably lower than the national average of 22.7, with property crime only slightly higher than the national average. Why the big discrepancy in ratings? It really depends on where you live in the Orange Beach area. <a href="https://crimegrade.org/safest-places-in-orange-beach-al/">This map</a>, provided by CrimeGrade.org outlines the safest places to reside in the area (represented by a dark green that translates to an A+ rating), the most dangers (show in red with an F-rating) and those areas that fall somewhere in the middle with a C-rating (drawn in yellow). <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Orange_Beach_2.png" width="600" height="400" />
Playing in Orange Beach
As previously mentioned, there are lots of ways to embrace the laid-back beach lifestyle in Orange Beach, AL. The stunning, white-sand beaches will have you relaxed in no time. Take a walk along the shores, dip your toes in the crystal-clear water or enjoy some of the amazing outdoor activities. With an average high temperature at 84 degrees during the hot season (the end of May through the end of September) and a cool season with perfect temps…an average high of 67 degrees (Beginning of December through the beginning of March), there’s really no reason not to get outside and enjoy the sunshine!
Boat Tours: Whether you’re looking to deep-sea fish, catch a glimpse of our local wildlife (the whales and dolphins love to put on a show), or just enjoy one of our incredible sunsets, you can choose from over 100 charter captains all along the Gulf Coast of Alabama.
Hiking: The BackCountry Trail offers over 15 miles of trail, suitable for hiking and/or biking. Explore on your own or take one of our guided eco-tours. You can even spend the night camping under the stars. There’s also the Waterfront park, a more family-friendly outdoor option to go for a walk, host a BBQ and enjoy the outdoors.
Watersports: From paddle boarding, to kayaking, jet skis, scuba diving and everything in between, there’s no shortage of activities that you can enjoy out on the water. Check out one of the plentiful watersports outfitters and go have an adventure of your own!
Dog Park: There’s something for your furry friends to enjoy, as well, in Orange Beach. If you’ve brought Fido on your trip, don’t forget to check out our pristine dog park.
Sports: Attend a local softball or soccer game at the Orange Beach Sports Complex, hit the courts at the Orange Beach Tennis Center (lessons are also available), explore the exciting sport of frisbee golf or check out some of our traditional courses in the area. The Orange Beach Golf Center is extremely cost-effective and a perfect size (just 9-holes with a driving range)
Kid-Friendly Activities: Traveling with children? Check out the Wharf for mini golf and the ferris wheel. Visit Adventure Island to play on paddle boats, go-karts, in the laser tag arena, or in the arcade. Swing by Breakout Games for a challenging family puzzle or get an aerial view with a helicopter tour.
Enjoying the Nightlife
The fun doesn’t end when the sun sets in Orange Beach, AL. The heart of Orange Beach leaves you 5 miles from The Wharf (where ample opportunities to dine, dance and shop await you), just 6.8 miles from downtown Gulf Shores and 25.8 miles from downtown Pensacola. Whatever your preferences are, there’s something for you! Enjoy local seafood along Perdido Beach Blvd., explore Mexican, American, Asian, Cajun, and Italian cuisine, or grab a dessert and coffee at one of our local cafes. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Orange_Beach_3.png" width="600" height="400" />
Ready to amp it up a bit? Swing by Flora-Bama to see live entertainment every single day of the year. With five different stages featuring all different types of music (dance, country, rock, and more), you can’t go wrong. There’s a reason why this is the dubbed the most famous beach bar in America.
Walkability, Commutability, and Transportation in Orange Beach
While you’ll likely want access to a car in the Orange Beach area, getting around is not all that complicated. Canal Road and Perdido Beach Boulevard are the two main routes to access the city center. They both run east to west. If you’re entering from the Florida state line, there’s only one way to access our quaint community, via Perdido Beach Blvd.
While some of the attractions you may want to visit could be a little farther (downtown Pensacola or Foley, for example), there are some simple shortcuts that you can take to help your route feel more direct. Gulf State Park has some hidden cut-throughs that will expedite your travel time.
Not interested in bringing your own set of wheels? The Baldwin Rural Area Transportation System offers a bus traveling between Orange Beach and some of its neighboring communities, making ease of travel much more accessible. Dial-a-ride services are also available on the weekdays, as well as senior services that provide transportation to our local seniors to get them to grocery stores, medical appointments, and more.
Come Check it Out for Yourself
Any way you look at it, Orange Beach is an excellent place to be that offers something for everybody. If you’re ready to explore this hidden gem on your own, now is the perfect time to reach out and <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact the Hansen Team</a>. We can’t wait to help you with all of your local real estate needs. 2022-02-15T10:52:00-07:002022-02-08T10:36:05-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:25483Projects To Do Around Your Home in 2022 Part 2Beat the Heat with Summer Projects: Upgrade & Go Green
Summer is peak season for home projects. The weather is optimal, you have more access to free time and you’re eager to enjoy your home in different ways. While many homeowners choose to focus on their big renovation projects at this time of year, it can be difficult to secure contractors and building materials can be pricier, making it a perfect time, instead, to focus on ways to cut your budget and upgrade your home to Smart Technology and eco-friendly options. You can even take advantage of big sale weekends, such as 4th of July. Here are some great summer projects you might choose to focus on this year:
Indoor Summer Projects
Smart Appliances: Running a household can be a lot of work, but smart technology has made it exponentially easier. Investing in these items can save you a lot of time and energy down the line and they can also save you money as they rely on much less electricity than outdated appliances. Smart refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, washers, dryers, and more can make your summer feel easier than ever.
Energy Efficient Lighting: Installing LED lights throughout your house can have a myriad of benefits. For one thing, they last a lot longer than traditional bulbs. They also save on energy, emit no heat or UV rays and operate at much lower voltage than other bulbs. Making the switch to LED is cheap, easy and has long-lasting benefits.
Smart Thermostat: Avoid running up your air conditioning bill all summer long by investing in a smart thermostat. They boast a savings of up to 50% on home energy use and start at an extremely reasonable price point of around $100.
Smart Locks: Summer is a time to travel, so won’t it make you feel more safer knowing that you have the ability to control your home’s security from the road? Not only do these devices allow you to see who’s at your door (when paired with smart cameras), but they also allow you to interact with them from your phone or mobile device.
Door & Window Sensors: It can be very frustrating to realize you’ve been running your air conditioning with a door or window cracked! Smart sensors will alert you when a window or door is opened so that you always know that you’re making the most efficient decisions for your home and your wallet.
Smart Blinds: Another great way to beat the heat this summer is to invest in smart blinds, designed to absorb some of the sunshine streaming into your home and prevent it from turning your space into a furnace! They are reasonably priced and easy to install.
Tankless Water Heater: While the initial investment on these items can be hefty (between $2,500 and $5,000 depending on your home size), there is almost an immediate ROI. Tankless water heaters have been known to cut energy bills from 20-50%!!
Low-Flow Showerheads: You can also reduce your water consumption by about 50% by using low-flow showerheads (which reduces flow to about 2.5 gallons per minute from an average of 5.5 gallons!).
Outdoor Summer Projects<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Projects_2_-1.png" width="600" height="400" />
Energy Efficient Exterior Doors: Another great way to upgrade your home is to replace your old exterior doors with Energy Star certified replacements. Doing so can save you up to 10% in heating and cooling costs. New doors create greater insulation by using better materials and fitting more tightly with new weather stripping.
Solar Panels: One more great way to go green this summer is to install solar paneling on your roof. Solar panels convert energy from the sun into a usable resource that can effectively power your whole home. While it can be a costly undertaking initially, the long-term benefits are huge. Not only will you benefit from extremely reduced (and sometimes eliminated) electricity bills, but you are also having a long-lasting impact on the environment.
Recaulk Windows and Doors: Something as simple as recaulking your windows and doors can also be a highly effective way to cut costs and reduce your carbon footprint. This costs nearly nothing to do and a quick tutorial video is usually enough to get you started.
Replace Windows: If you know that there are windows in your home that are severely damaged (from wood rot, to cracks in the glass, and more), it might be time to consider replacing windows throughout your home.
Repurpose & Reuse: You can also make a huge environmental impact by upcycling. Places like Habitat for Humanity have amazing storefronts full of quality home materials that they’ve taken off of previous job sites and refurbished. Why buy new when you can make use of an already existing product?
Fall into the Cooler Weather: Finish Up Miscellaneous Projects
Finally, as the year draws to a close, the opportunity arises to finish up any miscellaneous projects that may have been neglected throughout the year. Your house has been renovated, organized and upgraded, so these last minute items will do just the trick to keep your home running efficiently throughout the long winter ahead of you. Tying up loose ends also paves the way for a fresh start in the year ahead so that you can follow this list all over again, maintaining a sense or order and checking off all of the to-do boxes without the extra stress and hassle. What can you start with in the fall? Let’s take a look!
Indoor Fall Projects<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Projects_2_-2.png" width="600" height="400" />
Switch Your Ceiling Fans: This is a really simple thing that should be done twice a year to keep your home running more energy efficiently. Turning fans clockwise during the cooler winter months pushes warm air down into your home and reversing it during cooler months sucks the warm air upward.
Clean Carpets: Carpets tend to be dirtier after the summer months when traffic is high (and lots of bare feet might be tracking through the yard and in through your home). Fall is a wonderful time to give your carpets a deep clean that can last throughout the winter.
Recaulk Bath Tubs & Showers: Colder days and nights often mean longer showers and baths, so now is the perfect time to ensure that your tubs and showers are ready for the extra use. Peeling out old caulking and replacing it with new is a simple job that can give your bathroom a fresh, new look.
Lubricate Sticking Locks: Treating your locks with powdered graphite (as opposed to liquid lubrication which can get stuck inside the lock) can keep your locks in tip top shape throughout the winter.
Wash Your Dryer Filter: Wet, wintry clothes means that your dryer is likely to get a bit of extra use, as well, during the colder months. Make sure it’s ready to handle the inflated workload by cleaning out your filter. You can test your filter by pouring water into it. If the water holds, it’s definitely in need of a cleaning. You can do so with a little warm water and a stiff brush.
Prep Your Fireplace: Before you use your fireplace, it’s also a great idea to check it out and make sure it’s ready. Clean out your wood fireplace, thoroughly check the chimney for obstructions and/or critters and stock up your wood pile. You may also choose to hire somebody to give your fireplace an annual inspection.
Outdoor Fall Projects
Clean Out Gutters: With falling leaves and melting snow, your gutters work overtime during the colder months. Giving them an intensive cleaning will help to prevent overflowing which can cause much more serious leaks and roof damage.
Roof & Shingle Repairs: While you’re checking out your gutters, be sure to give some extra attention to your roof. Check for broken shingles, leaks, damp spots or any areas that appear compromised. Making necessary repairs now can help you to avoid costly damage later.
Spread Mulch: Adding mulch to your gardens before the start of winter can help to protect your perennial flowers and plants from frost (and any animals that might get a bit curious).
Clean & Cover Your Grill: Oftentimes, the colder months also signal the time when we move cookouts from the back yard back into the kitchen. Make sure that your grill is scrubbed clean of debris, that the gas is turned off and that it is covered and stored in a place that will keep it protected from pests and harsher weather.
Trim Bushes & Trees: Prepare for potential winter storms by trimming all of the trees and bushes on your property that could use it. Particularly, trim branches back from your roof and remove any limbs that appear weak or dead.
Power Wash Hard Surfaces: Lastly, scrub away any residue left on your hard surfaces (driveways, sidewalks, siding, patios, walkways, and pool decks) from the sticky heat of summer. Whether you hire a pressure washer or you do the job yourself, it is a simple way to give your home a clean slate so that slight mildew doesn’t progress into serious mold under the weight of the wet winter weather.
The Bottom Line
Owning a home comes with a lot of responsibility, but creating a plan for yourself is a wonderful way to alleviate some of the stress that may accompany being a homeowner by providing you with a framework that you can follow year after year. Tackling specific projects little by little throughout the year will help you to avoid overwhelm and will keep your home safe, clean, decluttered and modernized throughout the changing seasons. You can always add or subtract from this list as you see fit, but having a starting point is often the hardest part! Happy home-owning to you this coming New Year!2022-01-20T10:11:00-07:002022-01-12T14:02:36-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:25482Projects To Do Around Your Home in 2022 Part 1There’s a New Year right around the corner, and there’s no time like the present to start to plan your next home projects. From simple fixes to full-scale remodels and everything in between, it seems like there is always something that needs to be done. Rather than flying by the seat of your pants and trying to do everything all at once (which usually results in nothing getting done), try creating a plan for yourself this year by tackling certain projects during certain seasons. In this way, you can ensure that you’re getting all the to-do items checked off of your list in a timely and efficient manner and without all of the headaches and hassles of previous years. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Don’t Waste the Winter: Renovate, Remodel & Revamp
Winter is the perfect time to focus on some of your larger-scale home projects (both indoors and out). There a quite a few reasons for this. For one thing, the winter window falls outside of peak season for most contractors, meaning that you’re far more likely to be able to find a contractor (if you’re using one) who can fit you into their schedule and get things rolling quickly. Winter is also typically associated with cheaper materials as demand tends to lessen. Prices for lumber, cabinets, windows and more tend to increase during the springtime and stay relatively high throughout the summer and into fall. It may also be easier to obtain permits during these months, as government agencies tend to be less busy, as well. Focusing on your outdoor renovations during the winter (weather permitting) will also mean that they will be ready to enjoy once those warmer months come along! Here are a few ideas to get you inspired:
Indoor Winter Projects
Remodel Kitchen: Winter is a great time to turn your outdated kitchen into the focal point of your home, particularly as you’ve just spent plenty of time in it for the holidays and are likely pretty clear on what could be done to make it a more pleasant space to spend your time in. Take your mind off of the cold and refocus your energy on creating a kitchen you’ll be proud of.
Remodel Bathroom: Bathroom remodels can feel a little daunting, too, but winter is a wonderful time to get this done, as well, for many of the same reasons. Contractor availability is much higher, costs are down and you get to start off the new year with a beautiful new space!
Patch & Repaint: Need a little color in your life? Spruce up your space with some quick patching and a fresh coat of paint! Nothing could be easier to give your whole home a brand new glow.
Insulate Your Attic: Insulation will help you to cut down costs year-round on heating and cooling. Whether you work with a contractor or go it alone, make sure that you find the insulation with the right “R-value” for your home (this number refers to its effectiveness and you should be looking for something with a minimum R-value of 38).
Refinish a Basement: Need a bit more space in your home? Optimize the space you already have by finishing off your basement. Think about all of the ways you could use it! A spare bedroom, studio apartment, additional hangout space…the possibilities are endless.
Convert to an Open Floor Plan: Another way to help your home feel more spacious is to move around some walls and open it up! Take advantage of contractor availability during the winter months and make those bigger visions happen.
Outdoor Winter Projects<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Projects_-1.png" width="600" height="400" />
Additions: Did you know that it’s often easier for contractors to work with dry, hard or frozen ground? Mild winters can be the absolute best time to pour foundations, making it the perfect time for those additions you’ve been waiting for.
Build Sheds: These cooler winter months are also ideal for building sheds and other outdoor storage spaces. Take advantage of the lower cost of materials and get building!
Patios: Ready to fully enjoy the springtime and spend more time outdoors? You’ll need a place to spend your days (and nights), making now the right time to build that patio you’ve been putting off.
Paneling/Siding/Shingles: If the exterior of your home could use a little love, take some time this winter to replace, repair or repaint any paneling, siding or shingles that might need it.
Build Window Boxes: Spruce up your exterior by building some window boxes onto your home. Getting them completed in the winter will ensure that they are all done in time for you to plant some beautiful flowers or fresh herbs that can be enjoyed throughout the warmer months.
Spring into Something Fresh: Organize and Unload
As Spring rolls around, it’s time to declutter, organize and get rid of the “stuff” around your house that’s simply taking up space. Spring is the best time to tackle both indoor and outdoor projects associated with getting rid of the old to make space for the new! We often think of this time of year solely as time for spring cleaning, but clearing and decluttering is just as important. Whether you choose to work with a professional organizer or do it on your own, here are some great spring projects you can work on this year:
Indoor Spring Projects<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Hansen_Projects_-2.png" width="600" height="400" />
Clear Out Closets: Now that the cooler months are on their way out, it’s a wonderful time to put those bulky sweaters and heavy jackets into storage for the summer! Take some time to go through your closets and get them all prepped for the warmer months ahead. Are there items you haven’t worn in over a year? Maybe it’s time to make a donate pile. Ready to take it to the next level? Color code your belongings or purchase or build a shoe rack!
Declutter Drawers & Cabinets: Spring is also a great time to go through the drawers and cabinets in your home and clear out anything that’s expired, no longer useful or taking up too much space. Kitchen cabinets, underneath sinks, dresser and night table drawers are just a few of the places you might start working!
Bookshelves: Don’t forget to go through your books, too. If you’re hanging on to a bunch of things you’re never going to read or books that your children have outgrown, these can be wonderful additions to that donate pile we mentioned.
Attics & Cellars: Attics and cellars can become catchalls for all of the things that you can’t quite find a place for in your home. Because of this, they can often become extremely cluttered and disorganized. Spring is the perfect time to explore these spaces and clear them out so that they can be used in more optimal and functional manners in the year ahead.
Pantry: Don’t forget to tackle your pantry. How many items lining your shelves are past their expiration date? At least once a year you should devote some time to discarding foods that have been collecting dust for far too long.
Outdoor Spring Projects
Clean Out Sheds: Take advantage of the beautiful spring weather by getting outside. Go through any sheds or storage buildings on your property to sort through tools, gardening supplies, sporting equipment and anything else that you’ve had tucked away for the winter. Doing this once-a-year can also help to minimize infestations of all kinds.
Tackle the Garage: If you notice that you’re having some trouble parking your car in the garage, it’s likely an indication that it could use a bit of attention. Clean up, organize, rid yourself of any trash and reclaim your space!
Add Shelving & Storage: As you move through these exterior projects, don’t overlook opportunities to make better use of your existing spaces. Sometimes something as simple as adding some shelves or storage containers can be just what it takes to keep your spaces more organized.
Prep Your Garden: Now is also the perfect time to get your garden ready for planting. Clean out any dead plants or weeds that are currently occupying your garden, till the soil and reinforce raised beds, retainer walls and fencing so that your garden stays safe and protected from critters after planting.
2022-01-06T10:11:00-07:002022-01-12T14:02:58-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:28295The Scenic Hills of PensacolaNestled in the heart of Pensacola, FL lies the Scenic Hills neighborhood, a residential paradise with access to golf, wooded trails, tree-lined streets and a quiet, homey feel. Located just west of the main campus of the University of West Florida, this one-square mile neighborhood is a perfect place to call home, even if it’s just for a short visit to the area.
While the name “Scenic Hills” may conjure up images of the country club of the same name, this area is much more than just golf. Pensacola’s unique combination of white, sandy beaches, beautifully dense forests, many historical attractions, shopping, and nightlife are just a few of the highlights that you will find in this area. Sound intriguing? Read on to learn more.
Two Separate Neighborhoods
A little-known fact to non-residents of the Pensacola area is that there are two neighborhoods in the area with almost identical names, yet two very different feels. Scenic Hills, itself, is a tiny, two-road neighborhood situated in northeast Pensacola extremely close to the ocean. Homes within this area range on the lower end of the market (between $100-$200K) making it both accessible and affordable.
The Scenic Hills Country Club Estates neighborhood, however, currently has listings starting at $200K all the way up to $550K, making it a bit of a higher-end neighborhood, while still affordable. The estates neighborhood is maintained by an HOA and boasts a $3.5 million clubhouse and an 18-hole golf course that can be enjoyed year-round in the beautiful Florida weather. It should also be mentioned that these homes do not appear on the market very often, a showcase of the satisfaction homeowners feel post-purchase.
Employment Opportunities
If you plan to move to the Pensacola area permanently, you might be considering what type of job opportunities exist. Due to the many local attractions, you will find that that the tourism and hospitality industries are quite active, though the region has a strong economy and business is full-speed in all industries. The Scenic Hills neighborhood is equidistant to both Pace and Pensacola, making it easily accessible to a plethora of opportunity. Professors, administrators and other educational professionals may also feel called to the area due to its close proximity to the University of West Florida. Whatever industry you’re in, you’ll find a booming economy awaits you here.
Educational Opportunities
Escambia County offers access to a variety of schools, both public and private. Residents whose children are attending public school in the Scenic Hills area will be zoned for R.C. Lipscomb Elementary School, Ransom Middle School and Tate High School. Both the elementary and middle school come highly rated by parents (per Realtor.com), receiving 4 out of 5 possible stars. While the high school falls in at around 3 stars, it still offers a wide variety of educational opportunities for attendees.
For parents looking to enroll children in private school, there are many quality options that are also available nearby. Trinitas Christian School, Carden Christian Academy, and Pensacola Private School of the Liberal Arts are just a few.
For those seeking higher education, the University of West Florida (UWF) is also just around the corner, situated on a beautiful 1,600-acre campus. The school is comprised of five separate colleges; The College of the Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, The College of Business, The College of Education and Professional Studies, The Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering and The Usha Kundu, MD College of Health. The student body consists of around 12,500 enrollees. Access to on-site housing, fraternities, sororities, national honor societies, intercollegiate athletics, student clubs, and special interest groups are just a few of the things that make this institution such a great place to learn. The main campus also includes a 160-acre wildlife refuge and is bordered by both Escambia Bay and the Escambia River.
An Outdoor Lover’s Paradise
Life in Florida means taking advantage of the beautiful, year-round weather. With average yearly temps of around 75 and enough sunshine to fill your cup, there’s no reason to spend your time indoors in the Scenic Hills area. The area offers so many wonderful opportunities to slow down and reconnect with nature (whatever that looks like for you). Let’s take a look at a few:
Golf: The Scenic Hills Country Club boasts an 18-hole golf course that will leave you coming back for more! Whether you’re new to the sport or an avid pro, Scenic Hills has something for you. It’s the only golf course in the entire state of Florida to have hosted a U.S. Open and <a href="https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/courses/15388-scenic-hills-country-club">GolfPass.com</a> reviews rate it at an 82.6%. Its stunning landscape is unmatched, with signature rolling hills and the shade of countless pine trees.
Beaches: Pensacola is long-revered for its white, sandy beaches and crystal, clear water. Whether you’re taking your furry friend to play, strolling the shore, catching some rays or splashing around in the gentle surf, there’s always a reason to spend time in the sand.
Trails: With easy access to countless state and national parks, it’s guaranteed that you can find a biking, walking or hiking trail suitable to your needs, skill and activity level. In the Scenic Hills neighborhood, you are also within five minutes of the University of West Florida’s biking trails (which can also be used for walking, hiking, or jogging).
On-the-water Activities: Don’t forget to take advantage of the many on-the-water activities available in the area. Dolphin tours, snorkeling, boating excursions and fishing are just a few of the ways you might choose to enjoy the amazing weather.
Other Things to Do in the Area
There is truly something to do for everybody in the Scenic Hills area. If you’re not an outdoor buff, maybe history is your thing! Scenic Hills is within close proximity to a plentitude of historical and cultural sites worth visiting. Among them are the Pensacola Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, the Pensacola Naval Air Station, Fort Barrancas, or Fort Pickens
If you’re looking to shop, check out the Miles Antique Mall, Alyssa’s Antique Depot, The Blue Morning Gallery, or the Cordova Mall.
Calling all foodies; there’s something for you, too! The Pensacola area boasts many fantastic places to grab a bite to eat or a cold beverage (or both). Head to Seville Quarter, the Old History Whiskey Bar, O’Reilly’s Uptown Tavern, or check out some local brews at the Perfect Plain Brewing Company.
If you want to step entirely outside of the box, there’s plenty of opportunities for that, too. Challenge your strength at Grizzly Axes, get yourself thinking as you try to escape from Escape Zone 60, Exithis Pensacola, or Escape LOL, take a tour in style on the Go Retro bus, check out the DeLuna Lanes Bowling Center for some family fun, or take a walk on the wild side at Fast Eddies Fun Center
With so many fun and exciting experiences close at hand, you most certainly won’t be bored. If you’re not sure what, exactly, you want to do, head into the downtown Pensacola area and see what it has to offer that might intrigue you.
Walkability, Commutability, and Transportation in the Scenic Hills Neighborhood
A phrase often heard around Pensacola is, “Getting here was easy. Leaving is so hard.” While there’s certainly no denying that, it can be helpful to know how to make the best of your stay (no matter how short or how long) by knowing how to easily access the many things to do.
The Pensacola area can be easily accessed via car by taking I-65 from the North or I-10 from the East or West. For those flying in, Pensacola International Airport is the most convenient option. Airlines serving the Pensacola airport include American, Delta, Spirit, Frontier, Southwest, United, Silver and Boutique Air. You can also access this amazing destination via boat by tying up to one of the over 20 marinas along the coast.
Once you’ve arrived, you’re quite likely to rely heavily on your feet! The most common (and easiest) way to get around downtown or the beach is to walk, though many people prefer to cycle, as well. Uber, Lyft, Lucky Cab and other ride services are also available throughout the area.
If you do come with your own vehicle, it’s highly recommended (though not required) to purchase a SunPass for the use of all toll roads in the area. If not, consider utilizing the Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT), which runs throughout the entire of Escambia County Monday-Friday, with limited destinations available on weekends. In the height of season, make use of the free Santa Rosa Island Authority trolley, servicing approximately 3-dozen stops running from the east to west end of Pensacola Beach.
Come See What the Hype’s All About
The Scenic Hills area obviously has a lot to offer, whether you’re here for a short visit or looking to relocate to the area permanently. The sunshine, warm sand, and gentle breezes are awaiting your arrival! If you’d like more information on how to get started finding a place to stay, reach out today to <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact the Hansen Team</a>. We are eager to help you navigate this next leg of your journey!
2021-12-30T14:55:00-07:002022-04-04T14:58:20-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:25411Living in Perdido KeyPerdido Key is a narrow strip of land that is 16 miles long and only a few hundred yards wide in most places. It is located in the northwest region of Florida’s panhandle, nestled between Pensacola, FL and Orange Beach, AL.
Stretches of white, sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and access to some of the coast's most beautiful wildlife are only some of the factors that make Perdido Key such a lovely place to visit and live, but it doesn’t stop there. With the area's dedication to preserving its shorelines, state and national parks, it is guaranteed that spending some time here will have you soaking up the tranquility and peacefulness so that you can truly appreciate what it’s like to be on “island time”. Read on to learn more.
Employment Opportunities
Those who decide to call Perdido Key home have access to a wide range of employment opportunities. In fact, Perdido Key boasts an anticipated 43.8% job growth rate over the next decade (that’s a full 10.4% higher than the average across the United States). The majority of the working professionals in the area are employed in the health care, hospitality, retail or administrative sectors. The area also has thriving agricultural, forestry, fishing & hunting, and mining industries.
Many residents in the Perdido Key area choose to seek employment in the neighboring areas of Pensacola, FL, Orange Beach, AL, or Gulf Shores, AL, as well. Across the whole of Escambia County, the health care and social assistance sector tops the employment list, followed by retail and educational services.
Who's Hiring?
Some of the top local employers in the medical field are Gulf Coast Health Care, Baptist Health Care, Lakeview Center, West Florida Hospital and Sacred Heart Health System. Educational opportunities abound at the University of West Florida, as well as at Escambia County School District, responsible for administrating all of the public schools in the county (currently 35 elementary schools, 9 middle schools and 7 high schools and several specialized centers). The Gulf Power Company, Wendco Corporation and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office also play an important role in employment in the area.
Perdido Key’s private employment industry stems directly from the tourism associated with the area. A plethora of restaurants, shopping centers, health and beauty services and local experiences provide employment.
There is also a distinct military presence in the area, with a large portion of residents either on active duty or retired (more so than 99.6% of other neighborhoods across the US).
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in the Pensacola area comes in about 8% lower than the national average. Despite it’s beautiful beaches, Perdido Beach has kept its small town feel and avoided over-crowding, allowing it to continue to be a wonderful place to both visit and live year-round.
Homes in the Perdido Key area range from $30,000 to $7.5 million, with the current median price falling in around $597,000. This is up 5.7% over the previous year. There is a wide variety of rentals available throughout the year, as well, with the current median price falling in at around $1800 per month. About half of the residents here rent and the other half own and 63.5% of the housing is seasonally occupied. It is a great place for a year-round home, a vacation property or an investment rental property.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Perdido_Key_1.png" width="600" height="400" />
Demographics and Diversity
Translating to the “Lost Island” in Spanish, Perdio Key is a haven and sanctuary for both people and nature. It combines southern charm with coastal living and the preservation of the natural beauty that abounds here. With approximately 60% of the land in the region designated for both federal and state parks, the area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and environmentalists of all kinds.
Locals in the Perdido Key area are drawn to it for its peaceful and quiet flavor, as well as the low crime and poverty ratings. Its residents are a mix of age groups and the area is ideal for retirement (more so than 98.2% of neighborhoods in all of Florida according to an exclusive study performed by <a href="https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/fl/pensacola/perdido-key">Neighborhood Scout</a>).
The small, year-round population makes for a very close-knit feel. The average amount of people per household is 2. Approximately 2,898 (22.5%) households have children compared to 10,016 (77.5%) that do not. The majority of the population is married, with a large number of unmarried individuals
The majority of residents in the area have completed some level of college (around 24% reporting some, approximately 12.5% reporting an associate’s and around 20% with a bachelor’s), while a third of the population reports some high school and under 3% reporting no schooling whatsoever. The median income per household is around $49,000 range.
Fun Fact: Perdido Key has more people with Austrian ancestry (1.8%) and Scots-Irish descent (5.1%) than any other neighborhood in America. 20.5% of the residents here identify as Irish, followed by 18.7% English, 17.2% German, and 4.4% Italian.
The Perdido Key Lifestyle
The Perdido Key lifestyle includes water, any way you look at it. Whether you’re relaxing on the white, sandy beaches listening to gentle waves crashing on the shore, spending time out on the water fishing or boating, kayaking the wetlands, hiking or visiting one of the many state or national parks, you’ll likely be spending a lot of your time outdoors soaking up the sunshine.
Weather
The weather in Perdido Key is amazing, averaging a comfortable 75 degrees. In the warmer summer months of June-August, highs can reach the low 90’s, with lows in the 70’s. During the cooler winter months of November-January, daytime highs typically fall between the mid 60’s to low 70’s with lows in the 40’s. Gentle breezes (7-10 mph) off of the coast are common year-round and an average annual rainfall of about 6.92 inches per month is to be expected. The average month boasts about 325 hours of sunshine, as well, making it the perfect place to retain a year-round glow!
Crime and Safety
While Pensacola crime rates are not where they could be, the crime rates in the Perdido Key neighborhood are extremely low. Residents in the area report that they feel safe and comfortable with where they live.
Perdido Key Schools
Perdido Key offers access to a wide range of schooling options that will fit every family. The Escambia School District currently directs 35 elementary schools, 9 middle schools and 7 high schools, all of which are properly staffed and well-funded. There are also several specialty schools within range including the <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/pensacola-private-school-of-liberal-arts-pensacola">Pensacola Private School of the Liberal Arts</a>, the <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/creative-learning-academy-pensacola">Creative Learning Academy</a>, <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/pensacola-catholic-high-school-pensacola">Pensacola Catholic High School</a> and the <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/carden-christian-academy-pensacola">Carden Christian Academy</a>, to name a few.
Public Recreation
There is a lot of great things to do that will keep you fully entertained whether you are visiting Perdido Key or looking to call it home. Nature lovers will be drawn to the peaceful beaches and hiking, as well as the year-round access to wildlife such as dolphins, turtles, manatees, ospreys, eagles and more. Perdido Key State Park has lots of amazing things to check out, as well. Have a furry friend who likes the outdoors, too? Don’t’ forget to check out the Perdido Key Dog Park.
For those who enjoy a little local history, Pensacola Village and Pensacola Lighthouse are some great places to visit, as well as the Naval Air Museum where you can check out the IMAX theater and even test your flying ability with the flight simulator. Fort Pickens is a great spot for military buffs, as well, built to protect Pensacola during the 19th century. There are also an abundance of art shops and art museums in the area.
The Perdido Bay Community Center is another great resource for locals. From yoga to Zumba to karate to soccer, there’s something for everybody. You can also gain access to a variety of support groups.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Perdido_Key_2.png" width="600" height="400" />
Nightlife, Events & Other Things to Do
There are more than just beaches in the Perdido Key area to keep you busy. With access to some of the freshest seafood on the coast, you can’t go wrong dining out at some of the local restaurants. Stick around Perdido Key to check out neighborhood favorites such as the Florabama Yacht Club, Jellyfish Restaurant and Sushi Bar or the Perdido Key Oyster Bar Restaurant & Marina or head into Gulf Shore, Orange Beach or Pensacola to check out some of their fares.
Not hungry? That’s okay, too. Watch your favorite game at the Perdido Key Sports Bar or head over to the Pensacola Greyhound Track if you’re feeling lucky. The Florabama Lounge might be your thing if you’re looking for some live, local music!
Don’t forget to also check out Blue Dolphin Cruises, All Jack’d Up Fishing Charters, the Lost Key Golf Club, Big Lagoon Jet Ski Rentals or Little Heads Kayak Rentals if you’re looking to get out on the water and enjoy the sunshine!
Whatever you’re looking to do, Perdido Bay has plenty of options. Depending on what time of year you visit, you’ll also have to check out the year-round festivals and seasonal events.
Walkability, Commutability, and Transportation in Perdido Key
Being that Perdido Key is a small community, walking and biking are often quite reasonable modes of transport within the neighborhood.
Approximately 17.2% of residents work from a home office, more than 98.6% of neighborhoods in the US, making their commute nonexistent. For those who do commute, however, they may be facing a longer commute time than most. 11.2% of those who do commute travel over an hour one-way to get to work. The average commute is between 15-30 minutes each way. While most residents (80.7%) choose to drive private cars, some choose to carpool.
State Road Access
Perdido Key is connected to the mainland via State highway 292. Other major roadways located nearby are Interstate 65, Interstate 10 and the Baldwin Beach Express.
Public and Private Transportation
You don’t need a car to enjoy the beautiful area around Perdido Key. Rideshare options, taxi cabs, and shuttles are all readily available to get you wherever it is that you need to go.
Need a flight out? That’s a quick trip, too! The Pensacola Airport is only about 20 miles away!
Get Lost on the “Lost Island”
As you can see, Perdido Key has much more to offer than just it’s beautiful sandy beaches and small-town southern charm. It’s a break from the hustle and bustle of the everyday and a chance to reconnect to nature and a close-knit community.
If a visit or a move to the Perdido Key area is on your radar, it’s time to get lost on the lost island. <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">Contact the Hansen Team today</a> to learn more information today.
2021-12-15T10:11:00-07:002021-12-28T10:20:35-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:24495The Importance of a Home InspectionIf you want to close on a home, you should perform a home inspection. No matter how low the price of the home is, you should avoid buying it as-is. Though it seems costly upfront, a home inspection can save you thousands--even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Read on to learn why.
Who Should Get a Home Inspection?
We generally recommend every home buyer to perform a home inspection prior to making a purchase. However, when it comes to needing home inspections, two groups stand out: first-time home buyers and real estate investors.
Because of their inexperience, first-time home buyers benefit greatly from home inspections. A home inspection provides first-time buyers a comprehensive assessment at their prospective house with the help of a licensed professional.
A comprehensive check of the home may not be necessary to a second, third, or fourth home buyer because they have a clearer knowledge and understanding of what makes a home safe, livable, and sound. Still, we recommend bringing in a professional for a minimal, if not comprehensive inspection.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Inspect_1.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />The next group that benefits from home inspections are real estate investors. Due to the busy nature of buying, renovating, and managing investment properties, investors simply do not have enough time to perform inspections themselves. What’s more, renting and selling investment properties is risky by nature; it’s best to reduce as many liabilities as quickly and as soon as possible.
What is a Home Inspection Contingency?
A home inspection contingency is a common clause in a homebuyer’s offer contract. This clause allows the buyer to evaluate conditions that would deem the home unsuitable for purchase and grant the buyer the opportunity to withdraw their offer.
During a home inspection, a homebuyer hires a professional contractor to audit their prospective home. A professional home inspector will look for major issues, conduct safety hazard tests, and judge the longevity of various features of the home. A home inspector will then present their findings in a scrutinized report.
Expose Structural Issues
A fundamental assessment of a home concerns the structural integrity and condition of the home and property. During a home inspection, a contractor will check the:
Foundation. If you are a potential homebuyer, you want your property’s foundation to be strong and durable. A professional inspector can classify large issues like sinking or breakage, or small issues like cracks. If you are serious about buying, you need to determine whether or not fixing a foundational issue is worth it, as these projects can be costly.
Exterior walls and grounds. A thorough home inspection will check the integrity of all exterior features. You should have a general knowledge of the condition of the home exterior walls, fences, and retainer walls, and whether or not they need cosmetic maintenance or a total replacement.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Inspect_4.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: right;" />
As for the exterior grounds, it is good to have an understanding of the plants, stones, debris, sidewalks, etc. around the home. These details can help you plan future outdoor projects. Another component of assessing the exterior grounds includes taking note of any signs of underground tanks,
Roof. Inspecting the roof is a standard and very important component of a home inspection. Repairs and replacing a roof is a necessary, but costly project. You will want to know the current condition of the house as it stands. In addition to asking your home inspector for an estimate on its longevity, ask the current owners when the roof was last replaced. If possible, ask to look at a receipt or document to verify.
Garage. Inspecting the garage is an extension of inspecting the foundation, exterior walls, and interior rooms. If your prospective property has a property, you will want to be aware of the conditions of your garage, especially if you plan to use it for work and storage.
Grading. Every home inspection should measure the grading around the house. Taking note of the property grading can lead to insights about water drainage, foundational issues, and structural integrity.
Identify Illegal Building
If you were planning on doing renovations to your prospective home, you for sure want to know about any illegal building. Illegal building refers to renovations, additions, or upgrades that neglect municipal safety and zoning codes. Examples of illegal projects can include:
● Unzoned additional bedrooms
● Garages or porches converted into living spaces
● Storage units
● Substandard electrical work
● Outdoor structures, such as gazebos
● Unzoned features, such as fountains or firepits
Projects like these should be carried out by a licensed professional. Discovering illegal projects could uncover safety hazards as well as obstacles for future renovations.
Assess Internal Systems and Structure
A detailed inspector will examine a home’s vents, heating and cooling systems, appliances, plumbing, and electrical work. They will gauge the safety, efficiency, and projected longevity of water heaters, central air fans and ducting, sewer lines, outlets, and more. You can even ask them to inspect appliances to be included with the purchase of the home, like the refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, and washing and drying machines.
Additionally, a home inspector will also investigate the home’s attic, basement, insulation, and interior structure. The purpose of these inspections is to pinpoint any heating or cooling inefficiencies, discover hazards like rodents, and identify structural issues like cracks, sinks, or damage.
Diagnose Safety Hazards
When it comes to safety, a home inspection is essential. However, testing for toxins and hazardous materials varies between inspectors. Some inspectors consider the following tests part of their routine inspection; others may charge a separate fee for each test.
Radon. Radon is a gas that occurs naturally from within the earth. It is odorless and colorless, and only detectable with a proper test. Radon exposure causes lung cancer.
Radon is a health hazard when it becomes trapped indoors and inhaled. It typically enters homes through cracks in basements and lower levels. If you are considering buying an older home with a basement or lower level, a radon test is a wise choice.
Lead. Lead is an element that occurs naturally in the earth. Lead causes a myriad of health issues, including neurological, developmental, and reproductive damage. Lead poisoning occurs when it is inhaled or ingested.
It was commonly added to paint until it was banned in 1978. If your home was built before then, you may want to consider testing for lead. Even if your home has been painted over several times with lead-free paint, you are still at risk for exposure with chipped paint.
If you are pregnant, have children, or intend to have children, you should test your home for lead.
Carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and flammable gas. Carbon monoxide comes from fumes produced by fossil-fuel burning appliances like grills, ovens, and fireplaces. Without proper control and ventilation, carbon monoxide is fatal. An analysis of the home will discover areas that have higher concentrations of carbon monoxide, which will in turn find pipes or appliances with leaks.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Inspect_3.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />Black mold. Black mold is a blackish-greenish mold that grows in areas with constant exposure to moisture. Mold has varying health effects on individuals with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. For some, black mold causes and worsens asthma and allergies. It is also suspected that black mold causes pulmonary hemorrhage among infants.
Regardless if there will be an infant living in your house, a black mold test is a good idea because it will identify water leaks and traps. Left untreated, these issues will completely damage your home.
Asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring fiber that was once used in a variety of building products, like insulation and tile. Inhaling asbestos damages the lung and creates scar tissue. Continued exposure to asbestos causes lung cancer.
Asbestos was eventually banned from residential use in 1989. If your home is older than 1989, and you see cracking, peeling, or crumbling on the interior or exterior structure, you should test for asbestos.
One of the most important parts of a home inspection is this safety assessment. Not every test will be necessary for your home. If you are unsure whether or not to ask for a certain test, you should evaluate the current condition of your home, research common hazards in your area, and determine your level of comfort.
Discover Rodent and Pest Problems
You do not want to buy a house infested with critters and insects. Mice and rats can damage your electrical wiring, drop feces, and spread fleas. Pests like bed bugs, lice, and termites can cause illness and structural damage.
A home inspection scans areas commonly inhabited by vermin and pests. This includes attics, basements, crawl spaces, and more.
Estimate Future Projects and Costs
After assessing every nook and cranny of your prospective home, your inspector will create a report. This report will cover all their findings concerning the safety, integrity, and longevity of the home as a whole.<br /><br />A home inspector will address issues that need to be repaired, replaced, or rezoned before purchase. And though they might not be urgent, they may also suggest repairs or replacements for certain aspects of your home.<br /><br /><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Inspect_2.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: right;" />Whether you are concerned about the longevity of your roof, the efficiency of your windows, or the pressure from your water heater, you can ask your home inspector to give a ballpark estimate regarding how much it costs to have a professional replace or repair them.
How Long Should a Home Inspection Last?
A home inspector will be as thorough as you want them to be. Depending on your requirements and the size of the home, be prepared for the home inspection to take two to four hours.
Should You Be There During the Home Inspection?
It may be boring to wait throughout a home inspection, but being onsite is essential. Being present during your home inspection gives you the opportunity to ask and answer questions. If you want, you can shadow your home inspector for most of their assessments to get a better understanding of your home’s interior and exterior systems.
How Should I Prepare for a Home Inspection?
If this is your first home inspection, refer to a home inspection checklist. You may or may not need all of the items listed on the checklist. Referring to a list will make you aware of assessments you would not have otherwise thought to check. When you are ready to proceed, pick the inspections and tests that are most important to you and ask your inspector to assess those items thoroughly.
What To Do After a Home Inspection?
When the review of the home is complete, you have a choice: proceed with the necessary repairs and buy, or withdraw your offer. If there must be projects or repairs before purchase, does their cost outweigh the benefit of moving in? You will need to weigh the pros and cons in this situation.<br /><br />Fortunately, your home inspector will leave you with a copy of your detailed report for you to revisit. You can use this report to continue your deliberation, learn more about your home, or plan for future projects. 2021-11-30T10:11:00-07:002022-02-03T06:24:37-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:24493Pest Control in the WinterThe winter season is the most opportune time of the year for you to reevaluate the condition of the property you own. Technicians put most of their focus on the interior of a building, identifying new issues that you as a property owner were never previously aware of. Winter may be the coziest season of the year as you sit back, relax, and enjoy the cooler weather.
One common misconception that property owners have is the belief that pests will simply lie dormant or hibernate during the winter, leaving property owners alone. The truth is that pests will seek out a site they can call home for the winter and will make reservations before the weather becomes too frigid for them to handle. The reason why you don’t see many bugs in winter is that the cold weather negatively affects most of them due to them being cold-blooded.
The following pests are some that you may likely encounter during the winter season. Keep in mind that this depends on the climate area you reside in.
Rats and Mice
The prime definition of pests, rats and mice will escape cold temperatures at all costs by nesting high up in your home’s attic. They can also make nests in crawlspaces, wall voids, underneath appliances, or hide inside random piles of clutter. It only takes a small hole to be opened for rats and mice to gain access to your home. Mice can fit through dime-sized holes while rats can fit through quarter-sized holes.
Spiders
Spiders tend to be a reoccurring problem throughout the year, and winter is no exception. The webs they make need to be removed and infested areas need to be thoroughly cleaned before property owners can access them again. Spiders tend to lurk in the dark, in areas so far out of the way that you can’t see them at first glance. Attics, sheds and garages are notorious for sheltering spiders because these are the areas that go untouched for periods of time and gather dust.
Cockroaches
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Pest_1.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />It is not unusual to see cockroaches setting up camp in either the kitchen or any of the bathrooms. In fact, they love the moisture that comes from these rooms. If you invest in paper products like cardboard boxes and paper grocery bags, there is a good chance you will pick up cockroaches along the way. Cockroaches can also be picked up via used furniture and appliances. Most migration involving cockroaches occurs through plumbing, electrical wires, or utility tunnels.
Ants
Ants are nowhere to be seen outdoors during the winter due to hibernation, but they can be seen indoors if they have successfully nested within the structure of your home. This includes taking up residence in wall voids, window sills, doors, and under any sinks. Ants view your home as a shelter that provides warmth for them so they can proceed to forage throughout your home for both food and moisture.
Fruit Flies
It isn’t enough for fruit flies to simply enter your home. They can fly in from the outside, but what is the more common reason for them entering is that you unknowingly carried them into your home. Fruit flies are tiny and will leave tiny eggs on fruit that are almost impossible to see. Any fruit brought into a home that has eggs on it is an open field for fruit flies to breed in.
Bed Bugs
Possibly the most unpredictable pests, bed bugs can have a negative impact on your living conditions, especially if you are a traveler from out of town. Bed bugs tend to appear in places where you would congregate with other people such as hotels, schools, homes, offices, planes, trains and automobiles. It is also possible for bed bugs to be seen in movie theaters and libraries. If you plan on visiting relatives, you may receive the unpleasant gift of bed bugs while staying over for the night.
Ticks, Fleas and Stink Bugs
One thing that ticks, fleas and stink bugs all have in common is that they thrive in warm climates. This is one big reason why you see them run rampant throughout the spring and summer seasons if left untreated. If they sense that your home is warm enough to keep them alive, they will try to claim your home and extend their lifespan in the winter. Ticks and fleas are especially dangerous if you have pets in your home as pets are viewed by these insects as live hosts. On the flip side, stink bugs are generally harmless, though they are annoying.
Preventing Overwintering Pests
It can be challenging to get rid of pests once they successfully set up shop in your home, so taking preventative measures before the winter season begins would be ideal.
Preferably you should start with the outside of your home and get rid of any gaping holes or spaces that will attract all sorts of pests. If you have firewood close to the house, you should move these materials further away. Piles of leaves that accumulate next to your house over the fall season should be raked and moved away. Debris that accumulates in your gutters make for obvious habitats for both bugs and rodents, so it is best to regularly clean out the gutters.
Preventing access to the inside of your home involves the act of caulking the smallest cracks and crevices that surround your foundation, windows, and pipes. Never assume that any space is too small for rodents and insects to crawl through, so when you see a crack that can possibly be sealed, go ahead and seal it.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Pest_3.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: right;" />Pest management technicians are professionally experienced in identifying and sealing points of entry for pests. Pesticides may be needed to create the protective barrier your home needs, depending on the severity of the situation. There are three components that break down pesticides, which are light, heat, and moisture. By placing this barrier of pesticides in the winter season, these three components won’t be as effective.
Treatments done to your home’s exterior tend to break down over a period of time. Applying treatment for pest control must be a continuous process because it will ensure a continuous barrier of protection against pests from penetrating. By having a protective barrier in place throughout the winter, your home will be better prepared when pests become more active in the spring.
You may hear about the term “overwintering” when referring to pests that invade your home. One definition of overwintering is to remain alive through the winter. There are many pests that fit the definition of overwintering.
Additional Tips
Regular examinations of your home’s exterior must be performed throughout the year to help prevent pests from invading your property. Here are some additional tips and suggestions on how to perform adequate maintenance.
For starters, if you have any damaged screens on windows, vents or doors, immediately fix or replace them so that pests can’t walk right through them.
Proper ventilation must be maintained for areas such as attics, basements and crawlspaces because you don’t want an unnecessary buildup of excess moisture.
You may not think about this initially, but keep an eye on your chimney. Cap your chimney and make sure it has mesh siding so that pests won’t be able to sneak in.
If you have lots of clutter in either your attics or garages (or both areas), make sure you get rid of that clutter. At the very least, move that clutter to a different location such as a local community storage unit.
Water leaks in any part of your house is never a good thing if you want to keep pests away. Some pests thrive in moisture sites. For example, if you have a leak in a kitchen sink pipe, identify the severity of the damage in the pipe and fix the leak as soon as possible.
Monitor any trees that are close to your house. If there are any tree branches that can possibly touch the structure of the building, they must be trimmed back or completely cut down. This is done to prevent pests from gaining entry to the house.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Pest_2.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />Any food that you may have must either be sealed inside containers or placed inside the refrigerator. Keep the condition of your kitchen clean because this is the best place for pests to find their own food. Especially if you have perishable foods like fruits and vegetables, they need to be sealed and stored away.
If you own a pet such as a dog or a cat, make sure to regularly clean up after it. Pests are normally attracted to the smell of feces and will gravitate toward your home if all traces of feces are not removed from the ground.
If you have an abundance of firewood near one side of your home, it is best to get all that firewood moved out of the way. Certain pests such as termites will jump at the opportunity of exploring through the wooden parts of your home’s foundation if they have already infiltrated the firewood. Contrary to popular belief, termites can survive standard winter temperatures. In order to survive they can burrow deeper under wooden surfaces if they need to. Termites can also thrive in tunnels if they provide moisture. Any place that is warm, dark and full of moisture is the type of place termites will call home during the winter.
How Often Should You Perform Pest Control?
The main goal of pest control is to prevent bugs and rodents from entering your home. Pest control is a process that should be handled on a seasonal basis, and that includes the winter season. Performing regularly scheduled pest control lowers the risk of your home allowing pests to enter and create infestations.
Applying pest control treatments depends on the needs of your home. However, keep in mind that if infestations occur it will end up costing you much more money to clean out than if you were to perform regularly scheduled pest control. For both homes and real estate businesses winter is the most critical time of year for pest control to be performed.
Contact Us About Winter Pest Control
Even if you live in the state of Florida, a part of the United States that rarely ever sees snow in the winter, you will need to keep track of all your pest control measures throughout the year. If you need help with pest control for your home in the winter, feel free to contact us. As part of the real estate industry, it is our job to ensure that the properties we sell and safe and secure, free of any pest infestation.
2021-11-15T10:11:00-07:002021-12-28T10:22:08-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:24492Living in Fort WaltonLocated along the eastern portion of the Florida Panhandle is the special city of Fort Walton. Fort Walton is nestled in Okaloosa County, south of Crestview, east of Navarre, and west of Niceville and Destin.
On its surface, Fort Walton seems ideal for those interested in aircrafts, aviation, and beach-living. While true, you’ll be surprised to learn that Fort Walton is ideal for an even wider crowd. Welcoming and affordable for families of all kinds and sizes, Fort Walton is an ideal place for settling and vacationing.
Read on to learn more about what makes Fort Walton a unique and desirable place to live.
Employment Opportunities
Fort Walton offers countless employment opportunities in Fort Walton. The majority of professionals in Fort Walton are employed within the military, educational, medical, and public sectors. A smaller, but still significant, portion of the professional population works in retail and technology.<br /><br />The United States Airforce is the main military presence in Fort Walton. Military professionals either work at <a href="https://www.eglin.af.mil/">Eglin Air Force Base</a> or <a href="https://www.hurlburt.af.mil/">Hurlburt Field</a>.
The largest educational employers in the area are the Okaloosa County School District, Northwest Florida State College, University of West Florida, and Troy University.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_FW_1.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />
Okaloosa County offers plentiful public employment opportunities across several departments. The most popular departments are the Tourism, Airport, Public Safety, Water and Sewer, and Veteran Services.
Following the military, educational, and public employers in Fort Walton is the <a href="https://fwbmc.com/">Fort Walton Beach Medical Center</a>. They offer a variety of general and specialized medical services. There is always ongoing opportunity for travel medical professionals.
Fort Walton’s private employment industry is driven by retailers that cater to tourist and restaurant services, as well as general and defensive technology companies.
Popular retail services include shopping centers, beauty and salon services. Popular service employment opportunities include private rideshare drivers, delivery drivers, and all restaurant and bartending positions. Most locals working retail and service jobs live in Fort Walton and commute to Destin.
Cost of Living
Fort Walton is a generally affordable place to live, with a <a href="https://www.bestplaces.net/cost_of_living/city/florida/fort_walton_beach">standard cost of living slightly below</a> the US national average.
Compared to its touristy counterpart Destin, Fort Walton is a lively city that shares the same perks and benefits of a bustling tourist destination with a more affordable standard of living.
Fort Walton has a variety of beautiful, modern rental and housing opportunities that are below state and national averages. Most two and three bedroom apartments rent around the $1,000 - $2000 price range, while most 2 - 3 bedroom homes sell for $230,000 and up. It is an excellent place for long and short-term living. It is also an ideal place for vacation and rental property investments.
Demographics and Diversity
If Fort Walton could be summed up with one phrase, it would be, “Live, laugh, and love the beach.”
<a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/fort-walton-beach-okaloosa-fl/residents/">Based on a Niche poll</a>, the locals describe the area as diverse, kind, and neighborly. Fort-Walton residents give the city a tight-knit and supportive community feel. Residents are accepting and supportive of diverse initiatives and are welcoming towards all LGBT+ communities.
Fort Walton’s large presence of families contributes to its close community feel. About half of all Fort Walton households are families with children. There are countless family-oriented amenities like great schools, public recreation, health and safety initiatives, and nearby shopping to keep families happy and healthy.
Locals report Fort Walton’s ethnic makeup is rapidly changing thanks to the military presence and its sister city relationship with Quezon City, Philippines.
Most people in the area pursue higher education in varying capacities. The median individual and household incomes are within the $40,000 range.
The Fort Walton Lifestyle
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_FW_2.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: right;" />Locals tout Fort Walton as a fun, relaxing, and easy-going gem of a city. The area boasts some of the most understated beaches in the Florida Panhandle area. Fort Walton has a fun and beautiful downtown, spacious suburbs, and mild tropical weather all year long.
Weather
If you enjoy the outdoors, Fort Walton may suit you perfectly. The weather in Fort Walton hardly ever dips below 45°F or rises above 90°F. The tropical climate welcomes frequent rains that clean the air and keep locals cool. Fort Walton’s general humidity helps residents maintain glowing, refreshed, and healthy skin.
Crime and Safety
Fort Walton earns an average safety score compared to <a href="https://crimegrade.org/safest-places-in-fort-walton-beach-fl/">national crime and safety statistics</a>. Families, as well as single and senior residents feel free and safe to live their lives without worry or interference.
Fort Walton Schools
Fort Walton is plentiful with excellent schooling options to suit your family needs. All schools, including public, private, and chartered options, are well-staffed, resourced, and funded. The city also has a number of extracurricular and specialty schools such as the <a href="https://www.lizajackson.org/">Liza Jackson Preparatory School</a>, <a href="https://www.okaloosaschools.com/STEMM/">Okaloosa STEM Center</a>, and <a href="https://nfballet.org/academie/">Northwest Florida Ballet Academie</a>.
Public Recreation
There is much to do in Fort Walton outside of its frequent festivals and events. The Fort Walton Beach public recreation center maintains inviting sport courts, exercise and dance studios, game and TV rooms.
The recreation center also offers countless community academic and exercise classes. There are also senior care centers, preschool rooms, and after school care programs.
Outside of the recreation center are an array of beautiful, spacious, and intriguing parks, beaches, and museums.
Head to any one of the city’s manicured parks to enjoy walking paths, playgrounds and tot lots, sports complexes and fields, fishing ponds, picnic areas, and more.
Visit museums like the <a href="https://www.fwb.org/parksrec/page/heritage-park-cultural-center">Heritage Park and Cultural Center</a>, <a href="https://www.fwb.org/parksrec/page/indian-temple-mound-museum">Indian Temple Mound</a>, <a href="https://www.ecscience.org/">Emerald Coast Science Center</a>, or the <a href="http://www.afarmamentmuseum.com/">Airforce Armament</a>.
When you’re through, go to the Fort Walton Beach coast to enjoy the sun, sand, breeze, and fishing any time of the day.
Nightlife and Events
Fort Walton is always vibrant and alive with local events and entertainment.
If you’re looking for great places to eat and drink, Fort Walton will satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst. Choose from local favorites like <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/gi-jade-tiki-bar-and-bistro-fort-walton-beach">GI Jade Tiki Bar and Bistro</a>, <a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz/tapworks-fort-walton-beach">Tapworks</a>, and <a href="https://saltyduck.com/">Salty Duck</a> to catch a game, relish in happy hour specials, or relax the afternoon away.
If you’re looking for <a href="https://www.fwbchamber.org/events">community entertainment</a>, the city has no shortage of community outreach, fundraising, education, and cultural events. The residents of Fort Walton are always busy supporting the arts, sciences, sport, and youth clubs and more through holiday parties, dances, foodie gatherings, charities, and networking events.<br /><br />Plus, if you ever find yourself wanting a bit of travel, the neighboring city of Destin is upbeat and busy with tourist activities and novelty restaurants year-round.
Walkability, Commutability, and Transportation in Fort Walton
With a walkability score of 39 and a bikeability score of 47, life in Fort Walton is car-dependent. The roads and distances between the city’s recreation and amenities are long and often without bike lanes.
A large number of Fort Walton residents commute to Destin and the coastal areas of the city.
Fortunately, daily and rush hour traffic in Fort Walton is minimal. Traffic in Fort Walton peaks during the summer months when tourists pass through on their way to Destin and further along the Panhandle area.
State Road Access
US 98 runs east to west throughout Florida. Going through Fort Walton, US Route 98 will give you access to the entire Florida Panhandle.
State Roads 189 and 85 run through Fort Walton. State Road 189 runs north and south to give access between Eglin Air Force Base and US Route 98. State Road 85 runs north and south between Fort Walton and the Florida-Alabama state line.
Public and Private Transportation
You can still get around Fort Walton if you don’t have a car. The city operates five routes that intersect Fort Walton’s retail, medical, educational, and recreational destinations. The city’s public transit routes also intersect with transfer stations close to State Road 85 to help locals and visitors reach farther destinations.
Aside from rideshares, there are many private modes of transportation to choose from. The EC Rider is a bus system that can transport you throughout Fort Walton and Okaloosa County. <a href="https://flyvps.com/taxis-shuttle-service-destin-fort-walton-beach-airport-vps/">Fly VPS</a> hosts a directory of bus, shuttle, taxi, limo services, and more to help you get to and from the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Destin-Fort_Walton_Beach_Airport">Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport</a> and beyond.
Fort Walton Public Amenities
Backing up it’s close-knit feel are Fort Walton’s supportive community services. There is help and opportunity all around, whether you are in need or looking to give back to your community.<br /><br />Check out the city’s <a href="https://www.fwbchamber.org/list/ql/family-community-civic-organizations-9">Chamber of Commerce</a> website to seek help from or get involved in community maker spaces, Rotary Clubs, crisis centers, senior care, volunteer, or financial help services.
The Journey Doesn’t End Here
Fort Walton is more than a warm, tropical beach. It is a city filled with caring residents whose kindness keeps the atmosphere warm, the streets clean and lively, and the atmosphere relaxed. You can see it everywhere you go--from the pristine parks, manicured beaches, clean public transit, and beyond.
If you’re considering visiting or moving to Fort Walton, now is your time. <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">Contact the Hansen Team today</a> to learn more information today.
2021-10-31T09:11:00-07:002021-10-31T17:16:22-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:24490Living in NavarreLocated towards the easternmost portion of the Florida Panhandle is the one-of-a-kind coastal city of Navarre. Navarre shares borders with sunny Pensacola to its east, tight-knit Fort Walton in the west, and family-friendly Milton in the north.
Navarre is a lovely city in Santa Rosa County that overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. It is respected by environmentalists, adored by nature lovers, and appreciated by foodies.
If you’ve been considering the idea of moving to Navarre, this article is for you. Read on to learn more about what makes Navarre an attractive place for living, investing, and vacationing.
Employment Opportunities
Like many other cities across the panhandle, Navarre’s economy is driven by the military, education, medicine, technology, and tourism. And if you prefer to work separately from where you live, you are in good company. The majority of Navarre residents work outside of the city, preferring to travel to Milton, Pensacola, and the surrounding areas.
The military is embedded throughout the Florida Panhandle, and Navarre is no exception. The Air Force is the largest military employer in the local area. There is Hurlburt Field and Eglin Air Force Base. Both locations are west of Navarre toward Fort Walton and Shalimar.
The major educational employers in the area work in public and higher education University professionals are split up in the area work at University of West Florida and Pensacola State College. Professionals in the public center work are employed by the highly regarded Santa Rosa School District.
There are a few large and interesting technology and software firms in the area. Aside from Apple, there is Patni Computer Systems and Torch Technologies. Patni Computer Systems outsources software tasks for small and enterprise companies. Torch Technologies focuses on providing defense solutions for public and private entities.
Cost of Living
One of the things that makes Navarre such an ideal and desirable place is its affordability. Considering its proximity to Pensacola and Destin, not many expect Navarre to be a happy medium between cost and standard of living.
Navarre’s cost of living wavers between on par and above the average US cost of living. Out-of-state transplants are often amazed by how much natural, real estate, community, and entertainment value is packed into a town like Navarre.
Navarre has all kinds of housing options available for short-term living, long-term rentals and housing, senior care, and vacationing. Apartments and townhomes with 2 - 3 bedrooms typically rent for $1300 - $1500, while 2 - 3 bedrooms homes sell for $300,000 and up. You can also rent 2 - 3 bedroom homes with yards in Navarre for $2,000 and up.
As Navarre gains popularity among transplants, the housing and rental market becomes more competitive each day. Be sure to contact the <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">local team at Hansen</a> to find a house, apartment, townhome, or condo that suits your lifestyle before it’s too late!
Demographics and Diversity
Navarre’s population is exploding, and with good reason, too. Recently named <a href="https://www.pnj.com/story/news/local/navarre/2021/09/14/money-names-navarre-florida-one-best-places-to-live-us-2021-2022/8331179002/https://www.pnj.com/story/news/local/navarre/2021/09/14/money-names-navarre-florida-one-best-places-to-live-us-2021-2022/8331179002/">one of the best places to live in the US</a>, Navarre proudly maintains a small, local feel amidst its rise in population.
The area has a conservative history and political preference. Still, the locals are accepting of other affiliations and ideologies. <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/navarre-santa-rosa-fl/">According to Niche</a>, Navarre is rated the third most diverse place to live in Santa Rosa County.
Navarre is a popular choice for young professionals and families alike. Most residents of Navarre pursue higher education. The area offers many opportunities for professional growth and career advancement with the nearby prestigious colleges and universities.
The Navarre Lifestyle
Locals sweat Navarre is Florida’s best kept secret. With miles of natural beaches, amazing local cuisines, and all kinds of entertainment, it’s no wonder. Keep reading to see why locals stay and transplants never leave Navarre.
Weather
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Navarre_1.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: right;" />Navarre has beautiful weather all year long. The city enjoys temperate tropical weather all year long. The weather in Navarre rarely drops below 40°F, nor rises above 90°F. Because of its location facing the Gulf of Mexico, it is a hurricane-prone area. Fortunately, the city and locals are always steadfast and prepared for emergencies.
Crime and Safety
Navarre is a relatively safe and comfortable place to live. Due to its proximity to tourist destinations and military locations, it is a well-regulated area. Local law enforcement officers maintain stringent road safety protocols to ensure safe travels for anyone journeying to the area.
Navarre Schools
Navarre has an excellent school district supported by a respected staff, involved parents, and driven students. Residents admit they feel spoiled by the public school options. In addition to impressive school-wide test scores and performance, almost all of the schools within Navarre are <a href="https://www.greatschools.org/florida/navarre/">top-rated among parents, staff, and children</a>.
Recreation
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/HT_Navarre_2.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />
Navarre offers entertainment that is fun, educational, and thrilling for people of all ages. Before you even get to the beach, check out the <a href="https://adventuresunlimited.com/">Adventures Unlimited Outdoor Center</a> for ziplining, kayaking, canoeing, and more. Visit the <a href="https://emeraldcoastwildliferefuge.org/">Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge</a> to learn about the diverse creatures of the Navarre coast. Don’t forget to partake in community-minded environmental workshops.
Explore downtown Navarre on any weeknight to discover local food vendors and restaurant favorites like <a href="http://www.sharkbitenavarre.com/">Shark Bite </a>food truck and <a href="https://navarreseafood.com/">Scooter’s Fish House</a>.
If you want to take the whole family out for fun, head to the <a href="https://www.gbzoo.com/">Gulf Breeze Zoo</a> to experience a personal encounter with hippos, giraffes, sloths, and galapagos.
Navarre Beach and Santa Rosa Sound
Navarre’s beach is prime for relaxing, fishing, and water sports. And thanks to its emphasis on environmental conversation, there is a variety of ocean wildlife to appreciate.
If you love fishing, Navarre is your go-to city. Navarre Beach is home to the longest fishing pier in Florida. You can also try fishing and kayaking in the Santa Rosa Sound, a pristine and peaceful body of water between Navarre and Santa Rosa Island.
You can also spend time at the <a href="https://navarrebeachseaturtles.org/">Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary Sea Turtle Conservation Center</a> to learn how you can contribute to a cause to protect Floridian marine wildlife.
Nightlife and Events
Although close to the vibrant Pensacola, Navarre has no shortage of <a href="https://www.visitflorida.com/places-to-go/northwest/navarre/">community events and happenings</a>. Get comfortable and cozy working a kiln within the city’s tight-knit pottery community, or take part in an annual festival like the Lumberjack festival or Military Appreciation Picnic.
For nightlife and entertainment, any one of Navarre’s bars and restaurants is sure to please. Local and tourist favorites include <a href="http://www.juanaspagodas.com/">Juana’s Pagodas and Sailors Bar and Grill</a> and <a href="https://www.johnnyhustons.com/">Johnny Hustons</a>. Try the fish tacos at Juana’s or a Bangin’ Shrimp Wrap at Johnny’s!
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And if residents or tourists feel the need to wander out of town, they simply head east to Pensacola or west to Destin to satisfy their travel bug.
Getting Around in Navarre
With a walkability score of 13 and a bike score of 37, life in Navarre is car-dependent. The roads and distances between the city’s recreation and amenities are long and often without bike lanes.
A large number of Navarre residents commute to Pensacola and Milton for work. and the coastal Fortunately, daily and rush hour traffic in Navarre is minimal. Traffic in Navarre peaks during the summer months when tourists pass through on their way to Pensacola and Destin.
You can get around without a car if you buy or rent a golf cart, a popular mode of transportation in this easy-going area.
If you do have a car, know that US Highway 98 runs east to west throughout Florida and right through Navarre. The highway gives locals and travelers easy access across the entire Florida Panhandle.
Public and Private Transportation
You can still <a href="https://www.navarrebeach.com/information/things-to-do/about-navarre-beach/getting-around/">get around Navarre if you don’t have a car</a>. The city is stocked with public and private modes of transportation to help locals and visitors get to where they need to go.
A popular favorite are street legal scooters. The city is teeming with rentable scooters that you ride and drop off at your convenience. They are also an amazing way to connect with the nature of the city and the beaches of Navarre!
For special event travel, contact Navarre’s <a href="https://www.sunshineshuttle.com/">Sunshine Shuttle</a>, a local favorite for casual, luxury, and on-demand transportation.
Aside from rideshares, there are many private modes of transportation to choose from. <a href="https://flyvps.com/taxis-shuttle-service-destin-fort-walton-beach-airport-vps/">Fly VPS</a> hosts a directory of bus, shuttle, taxi, limo services, and more to help you get to and from the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Destin-Fort_Walton_Beach_Airport">Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport</a> and beyond. You can also check out <a href="https://www.navarrebeach.com/transportation/">this directory</a> for Navarre-specific private transportation services.
Never Say Never in Navarre
Navarre is more than a <a href="https://www.news-journalonline.com/news/20180721/40-years-of-jaws-2-panhandle-locals-remember-filming-of-movie">historic film site for Jaws 2</a> (but if you want to talk about it, the locals are always proud to regale the cinematic history over a drink at <a href="https://yeoldebrothersbrewery.com/">Ye Olde Brothers Brewery</a>).
It is a city filled with lively residents whose sense of adventure maintains a spirited atmosphere. Navarre is a community-minded town filled with considerate people who care about wildlife, nature, and the environment. There’s not an ounce of boring, nor is there ever a dull moment in Navarre, Florida.
If you’re considering visiting or moving to Navarre, now is your time. <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">Contact the Hansen Team today</a> to learn more information today.
2021-10-15T09:11:00-07:002021-10-31T16:34:29-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:23449How To Sell Your House in the Fall
If you intend to enter the real estate market as a seller, you will need to know all the potential benefits and pitfalls that come with selling a house. In particular, confirming when you would like to sell your home is an important decision to make. If you choose to sell your home in the fall season, then certain preparations will need to be made to accommodate the months where the weather typically gets colder. Depending on where you live, the fall real estate market can either be very pleasant or more challenging than usual.
Benefits of Selling Your House in the Fall
There are pros and cons to selling your home in the fall season. Depending on what you are looking for as a seller, the fall season could be the ideal time to sell your home. The following benefits highlight how you stand to gain from a sale in the fall season.
Changes in the Seasonal Weather
The summer months are known to get very hot while the winter months are famous for being extremely cold. The fall season is ideal for positive changes in the weather as it will significantly cool down from the summer heat, but not so much that it becomes like the cold of winter. In the fall temperatures are generally good enough for potential buyers to inspect the property, and they will be given more access to the road since ice and snow won’t be covering them. As a seller, you have time to make key adjustments to your property before you are ready to make a sale.
Selling Right Before the Holidays
A major benefit to selling your home in the fall is that it will start the process for a potential buyer, and that buyer will make preparations to be in their new home by the holiday season. If you are able to close on a deal in the fall, it will make the process easier for the buyer to transition into the winter holidays. It is not ideal to sell a home in the winter because people are generally too focused on celebrating the holidays.
Serious Buyers Will Emerge
Many buyers are out on the hunt for homes in the spring, but plenty of them may wait before making any offers. There are more houses to choose from in the spring, so buyers can afford to weigh their options and extend their search by months. However, when September arrives, the more serious buyers will feel compelled to make their move before the holiday season starts or before bad weather arrives. The more serious buyers are most likely to reach an agreement with you for a sale in the fall because they know the clock is ticking for the year.
Smaller Seller’s Market
You will be glad to know that while the amount of potential buyers will decrease in the fall housing market, so too will the number of sellers that have the same mindset as you. Many sellers opt to close on a deal before September, so you will be competing in a much smaller market as a result. If the seller’s market is smaller when fall begins, you will stand a better chance of your house getting noticed by potential buyers.
Better Variety of Buyer Demographics
Families are more likely to make their move in the spring and buy a new home. In comparison, millennials are more likely to wait until later in the year to make their move. Employers who need to relocate their workers also wait until the fall season to make their move. This is done to avoid higher real estate rates that occur during the spring. Most of these workers are typically out-of-towners who prefer to get through the process in a quick fashion. This could mean a fairly fast closing on a sale.
Improved Flexibility
Spring and summer provide a much-needed breather from the harsh cold of winter, depending on where you live. When assessing the condition of your house after the winter, you will most likely have to make improvements to your home if you want to sell it.
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How to Sell Your House in the Fall
1) Keep Your Home Clean
Throughout the entire year, it is important to keep your house clean, but there are a few additional things to be aware of when making a sale in the fall season. For starters, leaves must be cleaned up as much as possible. Alongside your yard, make sure that the walkways and gutters are cleared of leaves and debris.
Maintain a regular lawn mowing schedule so that your yard doesn’t look shabby. Any dead plants and bushes in the landscaping need to be cleaned up as well. Porches, patios, and decks need to be washed down and windows need to be wiped down to have that clean look. Also, ensure that there is a doormat so visitors can wipe their feet should it rain. Lastly, get rid of all clutter that can potentially hinder the movement of potential buyers in the home.
2) Correctly Price Your Home
In terms of finances, correctly pricing your home is one of the most important things to do before selling it. Fall is still a relatively busy season in real estate, whereas winter is nowhere near as busy. Overpricing your home will force you to wait longer than you would like to in order to close on a deal. Most likely you will have to lower your selling price should you start playing the waiting game. If you price your home right in the beginning you will get more showings for your property, and you will sell faster. A property that sits long on the market, especially if it lasts into the winter season, will develop a stigma, which will make it a harder sell for potential buyers.
3) Make Your House Appealing
Keeping it clean is one important factor in selling it, but oftentimes adding appropriate bells and whistles to your home makes up another important factor. For example, if your house’s exterior lacks something appealing, you should consider painting it a vibrant color, planting seasonal flowers along its edges, or placing full-grown pumpkins along a single line on the walkway to give your home a cozy feeling. Some potential buyers can and will instantly judge the condition of your home, so it is your responsibility to make sure that they have a positive feeling about it. There is no need to go over the top with fall decorations, but some displays like a front door wreath, and special lighting so buyers can see how to get to the front door can maintain a fresh feel for your home.
4) Maintain the Home’s Cozy Feeling
Entering a cold house is an instant turn-off for most buyers. Instead, set the thermostat at a comfortable temperature to warm it up so that buyers will feel welcome touring your home. Light is another good way to warm up a home, especially when approaching the winter season. Blinds and curtains should be opened so that enough light will illuminate the interior of your home.
The key thing to remember here is that potential buyers want to picture themselves living in your house. Create as many cozy spaces for buyers as possible in your home, so this could involve adding fall-colored throw blankets and pillows to a chair or couch and implementing fall-themed aromas to give off a pleasant smell.
5) Promote Seasonal Advantages
What do you appreciate most about your home in the fall season? Whatever advantages your home has during the fall, promote them as much as you can. If it is cold enough, put the fireplace on or at least have it clean with logs in place ready for a fire. If you have a playroom keep it clean and organized so that it reveals a great space for indoor activity during the colder months of the year.
Basement family rooms and theater rooms have to be positively showcased in the fall season because they will often be used at this time. Do you have a beautiful tree outside that develops amazing fall colors in its leaves? Open the blinds and curtains to showcase that from inside the home. Sometimes it can be the little things that will carry you to a successful sale.
6) Be Flexible
Whenever you decide to sell your house, it always helps to be flexible in how you prepare your home for a sale. The spring and summer seasons can serve as much-needed breaks from the brutal winter, and when it is pleasant in the year you will most likely have to make important repairs to your home. Make repairs and small renovations when you absolutely need to. In the fall season there are fewer hours of daylight to work with, so knowing this you may need to schedule showings of your home later on in the evening. Also, remember to be flexible for closing and moving dates because it will make the entire process easier for all involved parties.
Want to Sell Your Home in the Fall?
The reasons why it would be best to sell your home during the fall season are many, including the ones we have just described. The fall season may be the only part of the year where you get a real break from your typical daily grind of life. If this is your case, then embracing all the benefits of the fall season would be the wise thing to do. The real estate market works just as well in the fall as it does in the spring and summer, so why not sell your home in the fall?
2021-09-30T09:11:00-07:002021-08-29T20:29:12-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:23448Benefits of Buying a House in the Fall SeasonThe real estate market never sleeps for anyone. Open all 365 days of the year, the real estate market tends to run on cyclical trends depending on the season you are in. For example, the market in the spring season often blooms like beautiful flowers, having a fast pace. However, in the fall season, it is quite the opposite. The market often grinds to a crawl with wilted leaves. This slower pace is actually ideal for buyers. Though there may be some pitfalls to account for, the benefits of buying a house in the fall season are impossible to ignore. In no particular order, here are the following benefits to buying a house in the fall.
Remember the Year-End Tax Breaks
You should start thinking about which year-end tax breaks you could be eligible for, especially in the fall months of September and October. If you own a home you can receive great dividends in your tax returns. One example of this would be both property taxes and mortgage interest being deductible from gross income. Even if you wait all the way until November or December to buy a home, you can still write off qualifying expenses when you prepare for tax-filing season in the spring. Also consider that if some interest was prepaid before the due date of your first payment, and if your loan is closed by the end of the year, interest can also be deducted.
Less Competition
It is less likely for a family to search for a home to buy when kids go back to school at the tail end of summer. While this may not be good news for home sellers, this is great news for you as a buyer if you intend to close a deal in the fall. You will have less competition to deal with when you place a bid for a home in the fall season, which means you get more viable opportunities.
The Weather Reveals a Home’s Condition
While April showers can bring May flowers in the spring season, the fall season is the true test of a home’s character. The design of the home, its unique features, and the condition of its landscape will all be put to the test during the fall because of the dreary weather that comes with the season. Before you make any offers on a home, it is advantageous to see if it has any glaring flaws. If it does, then you may need to reconsider buying that home altogether unless you can afford to fix it. While you may not like being in the rain or snow, doing a property inspection in the fall is a wise move because the flaws of a home will be exposed.
Holidays are Motivational Tools
It is a common fact that many people celebrate holidays throughout the year. When it comes to the fall season, there is no exception. Whether it is Labor Day, Patriot Day and Constitution Day in September or the 16-day folk festival of Oktoberfest, sellers will be motivated to close a deal so they can plan for parties and events surrounding these holidays. Sellers generally have the mindset of needing to sell their homes by November, or else they will put aside all the distractions that come with listing a home on the market.
You Can Strike a Better Deal
Most sellers will likely put their homes on the market in the spring season. Oftentimes the listing prices of their homes are too high right from the start. As the spring and summer months pass by, the prices of homes will be reduced. If you encounter these kinds of sellers, then you will have a chance to strike a better deal by the time the fall season rolls around. After Labor Day these sellers have fewer chances to secure buyers, and by October these sellers become desperate enough to list prices below a home’s market value.
Sellers Want to Close as Soon as Possible
Having a complete understanding that a home is first and foremost an investment, owners realize that there comes along with the responsibility of keeping the home secure and viable for selling consequences that are tax-related. Sellers always look to take advantage of gains or losses throughout the tax year, and because of this, they may be willing to make deals so they can close as soon as they can. At the latest, they want to close before December 31.
The Pressure to Buy is Off
It may appear to be discouraging to see homes get bought left and right during the spring and summer seasons while you still have not bought your ideal home. However, you will be given the freedom to carefully assess your home-buying process at the pace that you prefer during the fall. If the pressure isn’t there for you to buy right away, you can appropriately compare homes and choose the one that best suits the needs of you and your family.
It is Safer to Buy in Fall
According to <a href="https://www.safewise.com/">SafeWise.com</a> home safety expert Sarah Brown, there are peak seasons for burglars to wreak havoc on homes. July and August are the prime months for burglaries, to be exact. As a buyer, when you conduct research on a home you are interested in, you will get to know more about the new neighborhood you are moving into. This includes information on how safe the neighborhood is. Should you be concerned about the safety of your home in this neighborhood, you can wait until the fall season to buy the home. Therefore, you can give yourself enough time to take precautions such as setting up a new alarm system before burglary season begins again.
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Home-Buying Tips for Fall
1) Spend time in your fall house listing search
The amount of house listings going on the market in the fall season tend to thin out, so the best thing to use is patience. Give yourself time to hunt for homes, and don’t feel pressured into settling for whatever is available on the market initially. The local real estate market is always being updated throughout the year, and that means new opportunities appear if you are not satisfied with what is available early on.
2) Create a list of priorities
It must be understood that as your options may be more limited in the fall than they would be in the spring and summer, it is important to prioritize what you need in a home. Also, take note that priorities and wants are two different things. For example, having a large master bedroom may be appealing and impressive, but the main priority is to stay within a short enough traveling distance to work. Communicate these kinds of issues with your realtor so that you can identify which homes best fulfill your priorities.
3) Understand what motivates the seller
Fall is not the time most sellers decide to put their homes on the local real estate market. When a house does go on the market in the fall, however, it is important for you as a buyer to understand why it has gone on the market then. With the exception of it being on the market for months since the spring, there may be more unique situations sellers may find themselves in. The seller may need to suddenly relocate because of job-related purposes, or because of a family emergency. Having this kind of knowledge on hand can help you when negotiating for the right price.
4) Define your budget
Money will always be one of the most important things to consider when buying a home. It’s unavoidable. How much money should you save? How much money are you willing to put down for a new house? How much money should you keep in reserve? These are the kinds of questions to ask yourself because you need to know where you stand financially. If you intend to make an investment this big then you need to make sure that your new home isn’t just something to be proud of, but also that you didn’t have to break the bank to buy it. Having a defined budget will help you determine the kind of property you can purchase, its location, how much space it has, and how young or old the house is.
5) Picture the house throughout the year
Houses may not always look their best during the fall season. However, remember that there may be seasonal issues to address with the property you may buy. It is best to use your imagination and picture what a home could look like during the spring and summer. Ask the seller if you can view any photographs of what the property looks like in different seasons. Sometimes it is hard to get a clear vision of what a house actually looks like in the fall because of the fallen dead leaves covering both the house and the land. In other words, you will need to keep an open mind when searching for homes during the fall. Test a home with your eyes and see if it has a passing grade.
2021-09-15T09:11:00-07:002021-08-29T20:11:50-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:22692Living in Ashley PlantationIf you are looking for a beautiful gated community to move into, and have the money and resources to make it happen, then there is this place called Ashley Plantation which is tucked away inside Pace, Florida. Spanning across 467 well-preserved acres of land is this upscale community, having surroundings that are both peaceful and breath-taking. At the same time, Ashley Plantation remains a convenient choice to many attractions in Northwest Florida. It even has some of the best schools for children to enroll in.
General Summary<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Ashley_Plantation.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: right;" />
Developer and builder D.R. Horton designed this single family home community, which is located at Arciero Avenue in Pace. When considering buying a home in Ashley Plantation, you can expect unit sizes to range from 1,706 to 4,188 square feet of land. A typical single family home in this community has three to six bedrooms. Methodically divided into several neighborhoods, Ashley Plantation offers a walking bridge that provides a pleasant scenic overlook of Chase Creek along with other conservation areas that are frequently visited by wildlife.
If you plan on buying a smaller home, Ashley Plantation offers homes that only have three bedrooms. If you have a larger family and need more space, then consider buying a larger executive home that contains a floor plan of either four, five or six bedrooms. No matter what size of residence you seek, you can expect only the best quality of home development in the construction of Ashley Plantation.
Pricing
What you will notice right away when evaluating homes in Ashley Plantation is the abundance in variety these homes provide in their designs. There are 22 homes in Ashley Plantation that have three bedrooms. Out of these homes, the average selling price is $213,572. There are 15 detached two or more story homes and seven detached bungalows. The average selling price for a detached two or more story home is $211,586. The average selling price for a detached bungalow is $217,828.
If you need a larger home for your family, Ashley Plantation has a total of 66 homes that contain four or more bedrooms. The average selling price of a four, five or six bedroom home is $325,967. While the average selling price for a detached two or more story home is $335,562. And the average selling price for a detached bungalow is $300,381.
Floor Plans
When you take a tour through one of the homes in Ashley Plantation, you will notice the elegance and the upscale feeling as you observe the spacious rooms of a house. One key theme about the floor plans of a home in Ashley Plantation is that you will be given tons of room to work with. For example, a bedroom will feature a closet that has a lot of storage space, which means that you can safely store your belongings. The flooring of the rooms mainly features wooden surfaces, so there is minimal risk in staining the floors as opposed to rugs and carpeting.
Most homes in Ashley Plantation will feature what is called a “Family Room”, which is different than a living room. A Family Room is created so that more space can be utilized by various parts of the family, including children. In the case of a detached bungalow, you will often notice a separate “Bonus Room” that is positioned alongside the attic. This is the kind of room that you would use for storage purposes, or alternatively as an entertainment room.
While you can be creative inside one of these homes, it also helps that you can express your creativity outside of a home as well. Some homes in Ashley Plantation will have unique features like a fire pit, pools, and small vineyards in the comforts of the backyard. Considering that you have a minimum of 1,706 square feet of land to work with when you buy a home in Ashley Plantation, you will have enough space to perform fun activities such as maintaining a flower garden and playing sports and outdoor games with your children.
Homeowners Association
Ashley Plantation is managed by a <a href="https://lcmfl.com/ashley-plantation">Homeowners Association</a>, which means that there will be specific rules, regulations and bylaws that you will need to follow to keep everyone else in the neighborhood happy. For starters, the annual dues that you will need to pay the Ashley Plantation HOA will amount to $560. The due date for these annual dues is January 1. If the HOA doesn’t receive your payment by January 31, a late fee will be added to the outstanding balance. You can pay these annual dues either online, via check, or via money order. If covenant violations go uncorrected, according to Florida Statute you can be fined a maximum of $100 per day for each violation and $1,000 per violation.
When you purchase a home in a neighborhood, subdivision or plantation, you reached an agreement to become part of the HOA. It then becomes a requirement that you apply for approval for any changes that are made to your home, as long as these changes abide by the Architectural Review Committee Guidelines. An ARC Review Application must be submitted before repairs are completed. Every HOA has their own ARC. If the proper protocol isn’t followed, you will encounter problems with your HOA. Items that are subject to ARC approval include any new construction, the installation of a shed, an inground pool, or a new roof on your property, the removal or installation of a fence, and exterior painting.
What To Do In and Around Ashley Plantation<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Ashley_Plantation_Ice_Cream.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />
Ashley Plantation is situated in Pace, one of the main suburbs of Pensacola. There are some activities available for those who live in Ashley Plantation. Especially if you are raising a family, you would like to have your children stay active by playing outside. One way to do this is to head out to Benny Russell Park, which is coming streets such as Hamilton Lane and entering West Spencer Field Road. This park was specifically designed with kids in mind as there are multiple playgrounds that will keep them busy during a beautiful day in the spring and summer seasons. Benny Russell Park is also a good place to ride a bicycle if you are the athletic type of person.
Benny Russell Park is a peaceful place to spend time in if you want to have a family picnic. However, if you have not brought many snacks or meals with you, then it is recommended to get some food at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ICstationstirfryicecreamroll/">IC Station Stir Fry Ice Cream</a> shop. While it is technically in Navarre, situated on Navarre Parkway, it is within a few blocks of Benny Russell Park. IC Station provides some of the most innovative and unique ice cream flavors in the entire state of Florida. Some of these flavors include the Stir Fry Ice Cream Roll, Egg Waffle Ice Cream, and Berry Good, which is vanilla and blueberry topped with strawberry boba, blueberries, and drizzles of honey. If you desire to have a savory meal at IC Station, then you can choose dishes such as the Beef Ramen, Shrimp Ramen, and various Gyoza bowls.
Sports Complex
Not far from South Spencer Field Road is a sports camp and clinic called <a href="http://www.theclubhouseallsports.com/home.html">The Club House All Sports Training Facility</a>. If you and your family are into sports, then you will get the stimulating activities that you seek by spending an hour or two inside this facility. A two-story building measuring in at 19,500 square feet, this training facility features 10,000 square feet of indoor premium turf that is open to all sports. a
Along with a premium outdoor training ground, there is a full indoor basketball court, an all-grass infield that meets Major League Baseball’s standards, a partial field for both American football and soccer, and volleyball courts that are stationed both indoors and outdoors. One great benefit of this facility is its indoor air conditioning, which really helps during the hot days of summer.
In addition to the key places for training, there are parts of the facility where you and your family can relax and have fun. There is a fan lounge available for watching sports on television. Also there is a coffee bar that includes a coffee maker, dishwasher, trash compactor and refrigerator. There are multiple party rooms you can pay for if you want to throw a birthday party for your children.
Dining
Looking for a great place to have a filling meal at the end of the day? Look no further than the northwest corner of Pace, which is only a few miles away from the Ashley Plantation community. Located on Quintette Road is <a href="http://www.santinospizza.com/">Santino’s Pizza</a>, which specializes in making grinder sandwiches and, of course, pizza.
There is an amazing variety in the types of pizzas and grinders you can choose. There is the classic cheese pizza, and then there is the barbecue pizza, which uses barbecue sauce as its base instead of pizza sauce. The Greek pizza has black olives, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, white cheese, green peppers and onions for ingredients. There is also a pizza made just for vegetarians, featuring no meat whatsoever. For grinders, there are delicious choices such as the buffalo chicken grinder, the cheeseburger grinder, and the DeLuna, which contains roast beef and horseradish.
Conclusion
Alongside the city of Pace itself is a beautiful and elegant neighborhood community that has a reputable Homeowners Association and a safe environment for the whole family. Ashley Plantation is recognized as an upscale neighborhood that has some of the best quality home development plans. Having an abundance of things to do in its surrounding areas, you will be at peace in the confines of Ashley Plantation, knowing that you can keep your family happy while living life to the fullest.
2021-08-31T09:11:00-07:002021-07-31T18:55:01-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:22691The Pleasant Community of FloridatownThere is a little strip of land just outside Pace that offers a genuine experience of living the kind of life that you dream of in Florida. This strip of land is a suburb called Floridatown, which is both small in size and humble in personality. Although close to the shores of the Gulf Coast, Floridatown is by far one of the most rural communities you will come across in the state of Florida.
About Floridatown
Located in Santa Rosa County, Floridatown isn’t a highly occupied suburb by any stretch of the imagination. It only has a population of around 300, so it is open for new residents to move in. According to Niche, Floridatown has a median home value of $113,200, which is $104,300 below the national average. Its median rent price for a home is $1,722, which is only $60 above the national average. When it comes to its residents either renting or owning property, Floridatown is decisively an owner’s market as 81% of residents own their property. As opposed to 19% that are renting property.
According to Areavibes, Floridatown has an overall Livability score of 80, having a cost of living that is 5% below the national average, as well as goods and services that are also 5% below the national average. Housing costs in Floridatown are exceptionally great as they are 14% below the national average. When it comes to home ownership rates, 67% of Floridatown residents own their homes outright. This figure is 6% above the national average.
Diversity
In Floridatown there is enough diversity in the people who call this small suburb home. Most residents are in the age range of 35 to 44 years, making up 30% of the community. Middle-aged and Senior citizens of 55 years and older make up 27%, and the combination of young children and teenagers living in Floridatown amounts to 31%. When it comes to education, the majority of residents have at least some form of college education or an associate’s degree, which is 59%.
What To Do in Floridatown
There are many activities to engage yourself in while you straddle along the Gulf Coast. Specifically in Floridatown there are a few things to do. When it comes to amenities, be prepared to have some limitations as this small community isn’t known for having many booming restaurants or shopping centers. Not far from Caroline Street are recognizable restaurant chains in Waffle House and McDonald’s. Turning off Wilkes Street you will encounter a sandwich shop that offers both takeout services and outdoor seating.
This place is called Philly’s, and this eatery specializes in making delicious cheesesteaks and hoagies. Philly’s is open from 10:30 am to 9:00 pm from Monday through Thursday, and 10:30 am to 10:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. Philly’s has an extensive menu that features both hot and cold sandwiches, and a separate vegetarian menu. Any 6-inch and 12-inch sandwich except for burgers cost $5.49 and $9.35 respectively. Small combo meals cost $8.00 and large combo meals cost $11.44. For hot sandwiches, you can get the Cheesesteak Hoagie, the Pizza Steak, or the Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak. For cold sandwiches you can get the Italian Hoagie, the Roast Beef Hoagie, or the Tuna Hoagie.
Parks and Beaches <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Floridatown_Beach.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: right;" />
Floridatown Park is an ideal location to go to when you need to go out on a walk and get some fresh air for the day. This park has 5.59 acres of land that includes amenities such as three benches, four pavilions, 17 picnic tables, a pier that has dimensions of 8 feet by 92 feet, and a concrete boat ramp. If you are interested in renting one of the four pavilions, there will be a fee of $35 plus tax to pay. There are six tables in this pavilion with a maximum capacity of 50 people. Floridatown Park is open to the public every day from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Located just 1.6 miles west from Pace is a pleasant bay called Bass Hole Cove. This bay lives up to its name as fisherman will find plenty of bass fish in this small body of water. Alongside largemouth bass are many other species of fish including drum, red drum, flounder, spotted sea trout, flounder, and catfish. While this is a subtle location to stop by on the Florida state map, Bass Hole Cove is a great spot for fishermen to practice what they love doing.
Employment
If job opportunities play a big role in determining whether or not to move in to a suburb like Floridatown, then you will be pleasantly surprised to know that there are favorable working conditions. Niche gives Floridatown an overall grade of B- in the jobs category based on the combination of job and business growth, cost of living, and employment rates. According to Niche, the median household income for Floridatown residents is $35,536, well below the national median household income of $62,843.
According to Areavibes, the average household income range that residents in Floridatown make is from $52,222 to $55,000. That is on par with both the state of Florida’s average household income range of $48,900 to $55,000, and the average household income range for the United States from $55,000 to $55,322.
There are a few industries that the suburb of Floridatown participates in when it comes to employment. Floridatown has workers in the construction industry, the manufacturing sector, public administration, and transportation, warehousing and utilities. Out of all Floridatown residents, 38.3% of male employees work in the construction industry. 26.2% of male employees work in the industry of transportation, warehousing and utilities. 27.1% of male employees work in various other industries. Female employees have an exclusive presence in public administration as 30.8% of female employees work in this industry. Both male and female employees have a presence in the manufacturing sector as 8.4% of men and 23.1% of women work in this industry.
Crime and Safety
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Floridatown_Safety.png" width="600" height="400" style="float: left;" />There is limited data on Floridatown when it comes to crime and safety, and all of the following crime statistics are only estimates according to Areavibes. Total crime rates in Floridatown amount to 2,987 crimes, which is 20% above the national average of 2,489. 447 of those crimes were violent crimes, which is 18% above the national average of 379. The remaining 2,540 crimes were related to property crimes, which is 20% above the national average of 2,110.
It is estimated that you have a 1 in 34 chance of becoming a victim of a crime in Floridatown. More specifically, you have a 1 in 40 chance of becoming a victim of a property crime. And only a 1 in 224 chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime. Areavibes gives Floridatown a D- grade for crime, which should be concerning if you plan on moving your family into the area. <br />Schools
Education
While crime in this suburb may be a legitimate concern, the most reassuring statistics of Floridatown reside in the classroom. Floridatown can say with confidence that it has some of the best schools in all of Florida. The education levels achieved in Floridatown have exceeded the rates achieved by Florida state standards and national standards. 95.8% of students in Floridatown have completed both 8th grade and high school. This is approximately 15% above both the Florida state and national averages. 63.1% of Floridatown students have completed some college. That rate is slightly above state and national averages. 38.8% of students have obtained an associate degree, which is slightly above state and national averages.
Bachelors and Masters degrees are not the strong suits of Floridatown students as only 27.1% and 3.7% of students have obtained these degrees. These percentages are below the state and national averages. 3.7% of students have obtained either a professional or doctorate degree, which is slightly above the state and national averages.
Conclusion
Floridatown is one of the many pleasant suburbs that the state of Florida has to offer. Although its crime rates appear to be the only blemish to its resume, Floridatown excels in a wide variety of other categories. Especially in adequate education and affordable housing rates. You will also have favorable working conditions in Floridatown should you choose to enter specific industries. There are many things to do in Floridatown and along the Gulf Coast that will keep you and your family busy for all the right reasons. If you seek a calming atmosphere to go along with various avenues of entertainment, then moving to the small suburb of Floridatown could be the right call for you to make.
2021-08-17T09:11:00-07:002021-07-31T18:38:32-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:22213Why You Should Use A RealtorIf you are new to buying or selling real estate or trying to save some money, you may initially feel hesitant to use a realtor for help. While you stay vigilant about the housing prices in your area, the key details of a home will need to be assessed by a realtor. The fact is that real estate agents work around the clock on behalf of their clients, and as a result, you don’t have to do much work. Here are the following reasons why you should use a realtor.
1) It’s About the Money
If you are a seller and listing your home on the market, you want to get as much as possible from the sale of your home. According to a 2017 study owners that sold their homes received around 30% less in sales than properties that were listed by real estate agents. If the buyer of your property is represented by an agent, be prepared to pay a commission. That agent’s commission is typically part of the deal. The standard commission rate for real estate sales is 6% of the selling price. If you sell a home for $180,000, then you would usually pay the agent a $10,800 commission. There are better ways to <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/blog/moving-soon-10-ways-to-save-money/">save money</a> during your move than trying to not use a realtor.
2) Experience Matters
Buying or selling a home is not as simple as it appears to be. Both sides of the process have to put in a lot of time and commitment. Whether you are a buyer or a seller, you will need an agent who has the experience to guide you through the process of a sale. If you sell, an agent will help you put an accurate and effective price on your home. If your price is too low, then you will lose money. Too high of a price will turn buyers away from your home since it doesn’t fit their search criteria.
If you buy, the agent will help sort out your search for a home. While looking at homes, a realtor can identify potential red flags. If you try to identify any issues by yourself, you will be wasting valuable time in your search for a home. Having years of education and experience in the real estate industry, realtors will help prevent you from wasting that time.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/realtor-photo.jpg" width="2000" height="1333" alt="Realtor with sign" />
3) Power of Negotiation
A real estate transaction has many components, including the price, repairs, and date of possession. If you have a realtor representing you, then you will have another set of eyes looking at the transaction from your perspective. If you don’t have much experience in negotiations, then you will need a professional who can navigate you past all the potential pitfalls. You want to negotiate the best possible price that you can afford as a buyer. On the other side, you want to get as much as possible for your home as a seller. Real estate agents are well prepared to handle unique situations like bidding wars, low-ball offers, and unconventional offers with caveats included. Negotiation is part of the heaviest lifting done by a realtor in a transaction.
4) Legal Duties
All real estate agents have a fiduciary responsibility to the clients they serve. They have a legal obligation to put the interests of their clients first. There is a very high standard for maintaining confidentiality that comes with this duty. As a buyer, you stand to gain nothing by directly sharing your most valuable financial information with a seller. The seller isn’t legally bound to keep the information confidential. The same principle applies to the seller’s agent, whose only fiduciary responsibility is to the seller. As a buyer, allow your own agent to determine if it is reasonable to share specific financial details with the other party.
5) Multiple Listing Service
If you are looking to give your home exposure on the real estate market, then having it listed on a <a href="http://www.mls.com/">Multiple Listing Service</a> would be a wise move to make. Agents always use an MLS to find and showcase homes that are for sale. Alternatively, you can check online sites that conduct searches on an MLS for you. Having an MLS on hand, a realtor can help you review all active listings that fit your expectations, notify you of incoming listings that will appear on the market, and provide data on recently confirmed sales. Should there be any properties that still appear on sites but are confirmed to be off the market, a realtor can help you identify (and push aside) those properties.
6) Emotional Support
What if a deal suddenly falls through for unexpected reasons? What if you run into issues with paperwork? Buying or selling a home is much more than just a business transaction. There is an emotional side to this experience as well. A realtor is an objective third party that will help you concentrate on the most important issues when emotions try to get in the way of a sale. There is a considerable amount of stress involved in a real estate sale. Your agent will be able to provide a fair viewpoint as to what needs to be done to complete that sale. You don’t have to shoulder the burden of sealing the deal alone. A realtor is necessary to have in the most emotionally driven moments.
7) Local Real Estate Knowledge
Before you hire a realtor to help you search for a home, he or she must have extensive knowledge of the local real estate market you are targeting. An agent with years of experience in real estate transactions certainly matters, but if that agent isn’t familiar with a specific local market, then you didn’t hire the right agent. An agent that knows key details of a specific neighborhood, including details on various homes on the listing, is one you should hire. Comparable home sales can be identified by an agent if he or she knows about the neighborhood you want to move into. Information such as schools, utilities, zoning, codes, Homeowner’s Association regulations and recent home sales can be provided by an agent that knows the local market.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/couple_with_realtor.jpg" width="1920" height="1280" alt="couple with realtor" />
8) Access to Referrals
Which home service provider is best to do business with? Do you work with a lender, an appraiser, or a real estate agent? All of these people become familiar with each other in the real estate industry, but all of these professionals will be asking for different fees. Your needs may be specifically tailored to the functions of one home service provider, and a realtor may be able to help you find that provider via referrals. For example, if you have bad credit, an agent could suggest that you partner with a reputable lender that can offer mortgage options. Realtors always handle referrals in an ethical fashion. They will not steer you to a provider that is unreliable.
9) Paperwork Management
Simply choosing a home and signing on the dotted line because you think it looks good just isn’t the right way to approach a real estate transaction. There are many comprehensive documents that need to be read by both buyers and sellers before key decisions are made in the transaction. A real estate agent can help you collect, prepare, and understand all of the required documentation to buy or sell a home. Handling the paperwork can be exhausting if you don’t know which papers to hold on to. Requests, offers, counter-offers, and disclosures mandated on the federal and state levels can be sometimes hard to grasp. Realtors have the knowledge to guide you through these documents.
10) Providing Help in the Closing Process
It is a long process when you close a real estate transaction. You may experience certain complications after you close a deal, including home inspections, real estate taxes, and the cost of repairs. Should there be a miscommunication on any of these fronts, the process could be halted altogether and you may have to pay for it. You hire a realtor to be vigilant throughout the entire process and to identify all potential problems before they occur. Pay attention to the HUD-1 Settlement Sheet as that is a closing document prepared by the escrow agent that highlights expenses or credits for both buyers and sellers. Mistakes can easily be made in parts of this document such as insurance payments, pre-paid interest, or pro-rated taxes. A skilled real estate agent will be to identify and correct these mistakes.
Conclusion
Buying or selling a home is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. It is in your best interest that you make a wise decision in a real estate transaction. If you are looking to achieve the best possible outcome both personally and financially, then hiring a reputable realtor should be your top priority. If you enter a real estate transaction alone, the process of reaching an agreement can be a long, tedious and stressful one. Entering a transaction with an agent by your side relieves you of stress and shortens the process so that it becomes enjoyable.
2021-07-30T09:11:00-07:002021-06-29T12:44:51-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:2221213 Things To Do With Your Pets This SummerWhile you and your family may have settled down and found the right neighborhood to live in, there is a point in time when you just need to relax and have fun. The summer season is the ideal time to pursue fun activities. The kids are out of school, and you and your spouse are getting a break from work, but what about your beloved pets this summer? Shouldn’t they have fun too?
Whether you own a cat or dog (or both) in your home, there are many things you can do to keep your furry friend active and stimulated throughout the summer. You may want to try some new things this summer so that you create some lasting memories with your pets. Here are some ideas for activities you can do with your pets in the summer season.
1) Morning Run
Summer mornings are some of the best mornings to go out for a run with your faithful companion. In the afternoons it tends to get too hot to have an enjoyable jog around your neighborhood or park. This early morning exercise is very stimulating for dogs as they will want to keep up with you while jogging. Alternatively, if jogging doesn’t fit your style, you can ride a bicycle. Your dog will still keep up with you even on wheels.
2) Car Ride
You may not always have a destination in mind when you go out for a drive, but that is totally fine! Your dog won’t mind where you go for a ride! It is a known fact that many dogs love sticking their heads out of car windows so they can feel the wind blow against their ears. This is especially true if you happen to own a dog breed like a dachshund! Here is a little secret; Some cats enjoy car rides too! Particularly if you have outdoor cats, they will sometimes hop into your car and want to ride with you!
3) Go Camping
Camping is considered to be a go-to activity for the family in the summer. Pets will also appreciate the change of scenery to a camping site as well. Going to a remote location and setting up camp in the wilderness for a couple days is a good change of pace for the whole family. Your pets are often curious and they have adventurous personalities. They get a kick out of exploring new sights, sounds and smells. If you love pets, why wouldn’t you spend a night around the campfire and have your furry friend enjoy it with you?
4) Hometown Tour
Perhaps you are not an avid traveler? You don’t need to go far to go exploring. It is amazing what you can discover by taking a tour right through your hometown! Put your pets on leashes or place them inside a travel backpack and walk through the various streets of your city. You can stop by monuments, historic places, wooded areas that may lead to a park. This would be a good learning experience for the family while the pets get to enjoy a change in scenery.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/cat-backpack15978.jpg" width="670" height="447" alt="Cat Backpack" />
5) Go Geocaching
One of the most creative activities to do in the summer is to go out on a treasure hunt. This is certainly the case for people, but this is also true for bold canine explorers. If you are familiar with geocaching, then you know how creative and intricate a treasure hunt can be. <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/sites/education/en/">Geocaching</a> is where people tuck away small treasures in remote places for others to search and find. The exact coordinates of the treasure are logged online, available for other treasure hunters to find. These can be seen with your smartphone with the help of the <a href="https://www.geocaching.com/play/mobile">Geocaching App</a>. Your dog will be thrilled to find something special in the great outdoors!
6) Obstacle Course
If you are not in the mood to travel anywhere during the summer but want to enjoy the nice weather the season provides, then set up an obstacle course in your backyard. You can be as creative as you want when designing this obstacle course. You can make this exclusive to just pets, or you can make this course accessible for kids as well. Hula hoops, tires, cones, and wooden plank ramps are just some of the things that can serve as obstacles for your pet to navigate through. It is both fun and rewarding for your pet as they learn to obey commands and solve puzzles while receiving a delicious treat.
7) Try Outdoor Sports
There is more to getting daily exercise in the summer than just walking! Tossing a frisbee around, roller skating or blading, or going on a steep hike all count as outdoor sporting activities. While dogs love normal daily routines of play and exercise, they also don’t mind you changing things up a bit. Hiking is not exactly the same as a walk in the park. Hiking will introduce your dog to new locations that will present new challenges for them. Having to hurdle over rocks and logs, your dog will use muscles and parts of its body that are not typically used.
8) Pool and BBQ Party
Most dogs love to swim in the water, and they especially love to go swimming during the summer. Get out a special paddling pool and invite friends over for a party where they can bring their dogs over too. Get the barbecue grill going so that you and your friends can enjoy a hot summer day. The dogs will appreciate the leftover scraps of barbecue meat! Having a pool and barbecue party is a great way to get your dog to socialize with other dogs if it is your only pet.
9) Create a Custom Cat Screen Door
Your favorite feline friend doesn’t like to feel isolated inside the house all day, especially during the summer! One way to remedy this issue is to create a screen door that is tailored to your cat’s needs. Cats are often curious animals, and they will look out the window to watch for wild birds. How about you provide your cat a more up-close look at the outdoor scenery? It is recommended that you get a pet-proof screen so that it will not be so easy for your cat to scratch and claw through it. Don’t let your indoor cat make a jailbreak escape!
10) Cut Long Hair
Both cats and dogs can get very furry and shaggy as their coats change for the season. To the point that it becomes detrimental to their health during the hot summer days. The feeling of wearing a heavy fur coat during the summer can’t be a good feeling! Without your help, your furry friend may struggle to stay cool in the summer. Schedule a summer haircut, but avoid completely shaving your pet. Bald spots must not be made either since these can be vulnerable to getting sunburned. Your long-haired friend will thank you for the haircut.
11) Make a Sprinkler/Misting Zone
If you don’t have access to a pool, then there is an alternative way to keep your pet cool during the summer. A sprinkler system set up in your backyard can entice a dog to interact with it. Some dogs are known to drink straight out of the sprinklers! When it comes to cats, they will sometimes enjoy a misting zone set up inside the house. If you have a cat with dark-colored fur, then that fur will attract more heat in the summer compared to light-colored fur. This misting zone can be as simple as spraying water out of a bottle in front of a fan.
12) Go to the Beach
If you happen to live close to the ocean, then going to the beach with your dog would be a great alternative spot instead of the local park. There are times during a summer day where the beach will get filled with people (and other dogs for that matter…), so choose a time when the beach isn’t at full capacity to have a fun, open walk. Bring your dog’s favorite toy along or find a stick on the beach to play fetch with your companion. If your dog loves to swim in the water, then let them jump into the ocean shores for a quick swimming session.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/dog-days-of-summer.jpg" width="2005" height="1495" alt="Dogs Beach" />
13) Make Frozen Treats
People love to eat frozen treats on a hot summer day. But did you know that cats and dogs love to indulge in frozen treats as well? You may prefer particular ice cream or popsicle brands, but don’t be surprised if your cat or dog hovers over your shoulder wanting a bite! However, not all frozen treats that are safe for people to eat are safe for pets to eat. Come up with a tasty ice cream or popsicle recipe that is pet-safe and offer your pet this custom snack! For example, there is a recipe for <a href="https://www.vegetarianventures.com/creamy-peanut-butter-pupsicles/">peanut butter pupsicles</a> that your dog will enjoy!
Conclusion
Pets can easily get hot during the summer season, so it is ideal to provide your pets as much comfort as possible. Whether that be an engaging activity that requires some physical exercise, or just a casual event you throw to keep your furry friend stimulated, it is best to create a positive summer environment around your pets. While staying cool and beating the heat, having fun with your pets this summer season is both easy and rewarding for the whole family. Feel free to check out some of our <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/blog/">neighborhood spotlight</a> posts for ideas on what to do in your area.2021-07-14T09:11:00-07:002021-06-29T12:20:25-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:21704Living in Innerarity IslandIf you are young and are looking to start a new chapter in your life with your partner, you would like to know what the best neighborhoods are. In the Pensacola, Florida area there are many beautiful neighborhoods to choose from, but not all of them are suitable for younger couples that want to start a life together. Perhaps you yourself have tried searching online for the best neighborhoods in Pensacola, but you are not sure what exactly to look for. Combining the metrics used by Niche and Areavibes, we will break down the best neighborhoods for young couples in Pensacola and its surrounding areas.
<a href="https://www.areavibes.com/gulf+breeze-fl/">Gulf Breeze</a>
Located just outside of Pensacola on the other side of the bay, <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/gulf-breeze-santa-rosa-fl/">Gulf Breeze</a> consistently ranks as one of the best neighborhoods in the area for anyone to move into. According to Niche, and Areavibes ranks it as the 44th best city in Florida. Gulf Breeze has a small population of 6,546 with a median home value of $371,600 and a median rent of $1,472. The feel of this area is sparse suburban, and the median age of residents in Gulf Breeze is 39.8. That isn’t the youngest age but there is a presence of younger couples working well with older couples.
When you ask locals what they think of Gulf Breeze, they will say that it is a quiet area and that there is a sense of community, especially being a family-friendly area. Everyone responded that they feel safe at night in this area. There are plenty of restaurants to go to if you are in the mood for take-out meals or fancy dinners. Gulf Breeze is overall worth looking into if you are a young couple.
Livability Score: 87
Family-Friendly Area: A+
Crime and Safety: B+
Amenities: A
Cost of Living: 26% above the Florida average, 25% above the national average
<a href="https://www.areavibes.com/ferry+pass-fl/?ll=30.52385+-87.19383">Ferry Pass</a>
Now if you don’t mind being in a more crowded area, then <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/ferry-pass-escambia-fl/">Ferry Pass</a> may be more of your preference. It ranks as the number one best place to live in Escambia County according to Niche and has a Livability score of 71 according to Areavibes. Having a population of 32,376, Ferry Pass has a median home value of $149,800 and a median rent of $1,002. Both figures are lower than the national average. This dense suburban area ranks as the 72nd best suburb with the lowest cost of living in Florida.
The median age of Ferry Pass residents is 30.3, and 37% of those residents have kids under the age of 18. Compared to Gulf Breeze, younger couples could have a better time relating to neighbors in Ferry Pass. There are things to do in Ferry Pass, such as Honeymoon Island State Park which has an on-site beach, so you can soak in the sun and swim in the water.
Livability Score: 71
Family-Friendly Area: A
Crime and Safety: C
Amenities: B+
Cost of Living: 5% below the Florida average, 6% below the national average
<a href="https://www.areavibes.com/oriole+beach-fl/">Oriole Beach</a>
If you are concerned about the safety of your family, then you should consider <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/oriole-beach-santa-rosa-fl/">Oriole Beach</a>. Ranking as the number one best place to raise a family in the Pensacola area according to Niche and ranking as the 112th best city in Florida according to Areavibes. You will get a nice mixture of a rural and suburban feel in Oriole Beach. Having a population of 1,815, Oriole Beach has a median home value of $233,600, and a median rent of $1,188. It ranks as the 5th best suburb and the 14th best place to buy a home in the entire state of Florida.
The median age of Oriole Beach residents is 35, and 54% of residents have kids under the age of 18. 100% of locals claim with certainty that public transit to and from Oriole Beach is accessible and that you will also be living in a quiet area that is pet-friendly. As for crime, there is basically none to speak of, as the total crime rates in Oriole Beach are 71% below the national average.
Livability Score: 83
Family-Friendly Area: A+
Crime and Safety: A+
Amenities: C-
Cost of Living: 3% above the Florida average, 2% above the national average
<a href="https://www.areavibes.com/pace-fl/?ll=30.61674+-87.16473">Pace</a>
If you want to look further north from Pensacola, then <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/pace-santa-rosa-fl/">Pace</a> is one of the first places to consider. It is just 15 miles north of Pensacola and offers a smaller rural community experience with less traffic. Having a population of 22,860, Pace has a median home value of $186,000 and a median rent of $1,092. Pace ranks as the 9th best suburb and the 34th best place to buy a house in Florida, and it is the 53rd best suburb with the lowest cost of living in Florida.
The median age of Pace residents is 38.1, and 49% of residents have kids under the age of 18. The housing prices of Pace are 10% lower than the national average, so younger couples will have a good time finding more affordable houses. If you ask locals about Pace, 80% of them would say that it is family-friendly and has a sense of community. 60% say that there are friendly neighbors in a quiet area that is safe at night, and the yards are well-kept.
Livability Score: 83
Family-Friendly Area: A-
Crime and Safety: C+
Amenities: B-
Cost of Living; 2% below the Florida average, 3% below the national average
<a href="https://www.areavibes.com/gonzalez-fl/">Gonzalez</a>
If your family wants peace and quiet in an area away from Downtown Pensacola, then you can look further to the northwest. There you will find <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/gonzalez-escambia-fl/">Gonzalez</a>, which is ranked by Niche as the number one best place to raise a family in Escambia County. Having a population of 14,598, Gonzalez has a median home value of $172,200 and a median rent of $1,082. While some statistics may not imply that younger couples would fit in this area, 17% of residents range from 18 to 34 years in age.
The amenities in Gonzalez have basic options when it comes to restaurants, but there are plenty of things to do. There are museums and nightclubs to check out and Gonzalez is home to the University of West Florida, so there is a presence of young adults. According to one user review, there is a true laid back community in Gonzalez, positioned between New Orleans and Tallahassee, so think of everything in between those cities when you visualize this place. It also helps that crime rates in Gonzalez are 1% lower than the national average.
Livability Score: 76
Family-Friendly Area: B+
Crime and Safety: B
Amenities: B-
Cost of Living: 2% below the Florida average, 3% below the national average
Best Neighborhoods in Pensacola Conclusions
As a young couple, it is completely up to you and your partner to decide which neighborhood in the Pensacola area would be best to live in. This may not be an easy decision to make, but part of the process is knowing more about a neighborhood and what it offers. If you currently live in Pensacola and have no desire to leave the Downtown area, then you already have plenty of housing options available. If you seek a change in scenery, it is best to expand your horizon and look at the surrounding neighborhoods that may better accommodate your needs as a young couple.2021-06-30T08:11:00-07:002021-06-04T13:22:03-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:21804The Best Neighborhoods For Young Couples in PensacolaIf you are young and are looking to start a <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/buyers/first-time-buyers/">new chapter</a> in your life with your partner, you would like to know what the best neighborhoods are. In the Pensacola, Florida area there are many beautiful neighborhoods to choose from, but not all of them are as suitable for younger couples that want to start a life together. Perhaps you yourself have tried searching online for the best neighborhoods in Pensacola, but you are not sure what exactly to look for. Combining the metrics used by <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/rankings/methodology/">Niche</a> and <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/">Areavibes</a>, we will break down the best neighborhoods for young couples in Pensacola and its surrounding areas.
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1) Gulf Breeze
Located just outside of Pensacola on the other side of the bay, Gulf Breeze consistently ranks as one of the best neighborhoods in the area for anyone to move to. Gulf Breeze ranks number one as the best place to live in the Pensacola area according to Niche, and Areavibes ranks it as the 44th best city in Florida. Gulf Breeze has a small population of 6,546 with a median home value of $371,600 and a median rent of $1,472. The feel of this area is sparse suburban, and the median age of residents in Gulf Breeze is 39.8. That isn’t the youngest age but there is a presence of younger couples working well with older couples.
When you ask locals what they think of Gulf Breeze, most said that it is a quiet area and that there is a sense of community, especially being a family-friendly area. And they also said that they feel safe at night in this area. There are plenty of restaurants to go to if you are in the mood for take-out meals or fancy dinners. Gulf Breeze is overall worth looking into if you are a young couple.
Livability Score: 87<br />Family-Friendly Area: A+<br />Crime and Safety: B+<br />Amenities: A<br />Cost of Living: 26% above the Florida average, 25% above the national average
2) Ferry Pass
Now if you don’t mind being in a more crowded area, then Ferry Pass may be more of your preference. It ranks as the number one best place to live in Escambia County according to Niche. And it has a Livability score of 71 according to Areavibes. Having a population of 32,376, Ferry Pass has a median home value of $149,800 and a median rent of $1,002. Both figures are lower than the national average. This dense suburban area ranks as the 72nd best suburb with the lowest cost of living in Florida.
The median age of Ferry Pass residents is 30.3 years. And with 37% of those residents have kids under the age of 18. Compared to Gulf Breeze, younger couples could have a better time relating to neighbors in Ferry Pass. There are things to do in Ferry Pass, such as Honeymoon Island State Park which has an on-site beach, so you can soak in the sun and swim in the water.
Livability Score: 71<br />Family-Friendly Area: A<br />Crime and Safety: C<br />Amenities: B+<br />Cost of Living: 5% below the Florida average, 6% below the national average
3) Oriole Beach
If you are concerned about the safety of your family, then you should consider Oriole Beach. Ranking as the number one best place to raise a family in the Pensacola area according to Niche. It also ranks as the 112th best city in Florida according to Areavibes. You will get a nice mixture of a rural and suburban feel in Oriole Beach. Having a population of 1,815, Oriole Beach has a median home value of $233,600, and a median rent of $1,188. It ranks as the 5th best suburb and the 14th best place to buy a home in the entire state of Florida.
The median age of Oriole Beach residents is 35, and 54% of residents have kids under the age of 18. The locals claim with certainty you will be living in a quiet area that is pet-friendly. As for crime, there is basically none to speak of. The total crime rates in Oriole Beach is 71% below the national average.
Livability Score: 83<br />Family-Friendly Area: A+<br />Crime and Safety: A+<br />Amenities: C-<br />Cost of Living: 3% above the Florida average, 2% above the national average
4) Pace
If you want look further north from Pensacola, then Pace is one of the first places to review. It is just 15 miles north from Pensacola and offers a smaller rural community experience with less traffic. Having a population of 22,860, Pace has a median home value of $186,000 and a median rent of $1,092. It ranks as the 9th best suburb and the 34th best place to buy a house in Florida. And Pace is the 53rd best suburb with the lowest cost of living in Florida.
The median age of Pace residents is 38.1, and 49% of residents have kids under the age of 18. The housing prices of Pace are 10% lower than the national average, so younger couples will have a good time finding more affordable houses. If you ask locals about Pace, 80% of them would say that it is family-friendly and has a sense of community. 60% say that there are friendly neighbors in a quiet area that is safe at night, and the yards are well-kept.
Livability Score: 83<br />Family-Friendly Area: A-<br />Crime and Safety: C+<br />Amenities: B-<br />Cost of Living; 2% below the Florida average, 3% below the national average
5) Gonzalez
If your family wants peace and quiet in an area away from Downtown Pensacola, then look further northwest. You will find Gonzalez, which is ranked by Niche as the number one best place to raise a family in Escambia County. Having a population of 14,598, Gonzalez has a median home value of $172,200 and a median rent of $1,082. While some statistics may not imply that younger couples would fit in this area, 17% of residents range from 18 to 34 years in age.
The amenities in Gonzalez have basic options when it comes to restaurants, but there are plenty of things to do. There are museums and nightclubs to check out, and Gonzalez is home to the University of West Florida, so there is a presence of young adults. According to reviews, there is a true laid-back community in Gonzalez, positioned between New Orleans and Tallahassee, so think of everything in between those cities when you visualize this place. It also helps that crime rates in Gonzalez are 1% lower than the national average.
Livability Score: 76<br />Family-Friendly Area: B+<br />Crime and Safety: B<br />Amenities: B-<br />Cost of Living: 2% below the Florida average, 3% below the national average
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Conclusion
As a young couple, it is completely up to you and your partner to decide which neighborhood in the Pensacola area would be best to live in. This may not be an easy decision to make, but part of the process is knowing more about a neighborhood and what it offers. If you currently live in Pensacola and have no desire to leave the Downtown area, then you already have plenty of housing options available. If you seek a change in scenery, it may be best to expand your horizon and look at the surrounding neighborhoods that may better accommodate your needs as a young couple. Also, be sure to check out our other <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/blog/what-to-consider-when-buying-your-first-home/">post</a> about buying your first home. 2021-06-16T09:11:00-07:002021-06-08T11:20:32-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:21697Should You Buy a Home in the Suburbs or Buy a Home With Land?You are a young couple intending to start a new family together, but you are unsure about where you should begin your journey. You have conducted your research on the benefits of both suburban neighborhoods and homes that have an abundance of land. But now you know that you are left with the decision. Should you buy a home in the Suburbs or buy a home with land? There are a lot of homes with land in Northwest Pensacola. But many people end up living in suburban neighborhoods instead. If you live in or around Pensacola, Florida and want to decide on which option is best for you. Here is a rundown of what to expect.
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Real Estate Agents
If you opt to purchase a home with land, you will have to work very closely with a real estate agent. This agent will help you navigate through negotiations and close the deal on a home if you are satisfied. However, the agent must have extensive experience primarily negotiating land deals, with home deals being secondary. Expect there to be a lot of paperwork to fill out before you purchase land.
Many real estate agents specialize in finding you the right deal for a home specifically. There is less work for a real estate agent to do if you seek to live in the suburbs. You will be narrowing your search to only the home. You are going to be considering how it looks and whether or not everything is in order. If a suburban home has the right accommodations, such as room space, a functional garage, and a serviceable backyard, despite being isolated by other homes, then it could be the right home for you. Listen to the real estate agent when choosing a suburban home, but don’t be 100% reliant on the agent.
Finances and Value
Most likely you are on a tight budget, so there is only so much money to spend on a new home. Whether you buy a home with land or you acquire suburban property, be prepared to spend money.
Knowing where to look to spend that money is half the battle. If you love the suburban neighborhood feel of a place like <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/ensley-fl/?ll=30.52595+-87.27227">Ensley.</a> You could be spending as much as $315,000 for a quality home. On the flip side, if you intend to buy a home with land, you will notice the land itself isn’t always listed at too expensive of a price. The cheapest prices in Ensley to buy land range from $20,000 to $63,000.
Neighbors
We all appreciate friendly neighbors, but not everyone you will see in your dream neighborhood will be friendly. Sometimes it is good to speak to potential future neighbors. When you are looking for a new home to help get a feel for the area. Other times it is best to keep your moving plans to yourself. Finding the right neighbors will be a challenge if you target suburban neighborhoods. If handled incorrectly. It could be a nightmare if you buy a home with land.
When you move into a home with a lot of land, you will be moving into a territory that borders the next closest resident, your new neighbor. That resident may have gotten used to being surrounded by raw land for years until you showed up. That resident may be looking to gather the information he or she can use against you in a land dispute should you discuss moving plans with him or her.
Available Infrastructure
There is nothing wrong with being a pioneer and going “off-grid” in Northwest Pensacola, but how much are you willing to sacrifice in amenities? City road services and trash collection are examples of key amenities. You will lose these amenities the further out you live in a rural area. If you live in a suburban neighborhood, these amenities will be more readily available to you.
If you normally prefer to go to public amenities such as galleries, theatres, clubs and sporting events, neither the suburban neighborhood nor the single home with land will be able to replace the entertainment value that you would get from these amenities. However, you get much more time on your hands in return, and planning ahead, you can find ways to replace these entertainment options.
Water and Power Systems
When you buy a home with land, you will be responsible for making sure all its utility systems are up and running. Homeowners Associations take care of utilities for suburban properties, but out in the country you are on your own. Always make electricity your top priority for home utilities. If you don’t have a power source, get one established. Once you do that, establish an emergency backup power source. The most rural customers of electric companies are among the last to get their power restored in their communities.
If the rural property you just bought has a well, then that is good news. The bad news? Most likely there isn’t an active water source. Suburban residents readily have water waiting for them at the turn of a kitchen sink knob. Always have inspections performed on your home that has a well and septic system. Test your water for bacteria, sediment, nitrates, or chemicals. Ensure that the septic system is safe to use.
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Homeowners Associations
One thing suburban neighborhood residents will have to tolerate is a Homeowners Association. In most cases HOAs are needed to maintain the land and property a resident occupies. There are rules and regulations put in place by HOAs that you will have to follow if you plan on living in a home they manage.
Maintaining property value is the main goal of HOAs, and when you search through online listings for suburban homes you will notice the best kept homes have the highest prices. This is in part due to sellers maintaining those homes according to HOA standards. For example, consider the difference between a <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/bellview-fl/">Bellview</a> listing for $355,000 on Marcus Pointe Boulevard, and one for $195,000 on Meade Drive.
One clear advantage to owning a home with land is not being directly tied to HOAs. In most cases, owning a house with acres of land surrounding it means that you are not subject to the bylaws of any HOA. You only have to abide by the laws of your local, county, and state governments regarding the property. You will also not be responsible for paying any HOA fees that they would otherwise issue, such as major repairs or upgrades.
Possibility of Loans
You will not be able to leverage a land purchase with a bank as you would with a home purchase. Keep this in mind because there are more dynamics involved when you get a feel for the value of a house with land. Especially if you are into mortgages. There are a few different structures to choose from, and they vary between suburban homes and homes with acres of land.
You have much less room to negotiate any mortgage deals with land loans. As they are usually done on balloons of three to five years. The full balance must be paid off within that time frame, or the loan must be refinanced. If you are not confident that you can pay off a land loan within three to five years. Then it may not best not to proceed with a deal.
Here is an illustrated example. An investor purchases an apartment building and might be able to put down 30%, with the bank giving him or her 70%. A landowner will have to work harder to negotiate with lenders to give him or her 40 to 50% of the value. This also depends on the type of relationship the landowner has with the bank or other forms of collateral.
Conclusion
Should you buy a home in the suburbs? Do you love the idea of owning a lot of land with a new home? What are your preferences? It is best to know what would make you and your spouse the most comfortable as a young couple, and what gives your family the best chance to succeed. In Northwest Pensacola, you have many housing options. The most important thing is to know what your needs are and what a home can do to accommodate those needs.
2021-05-26T09:11:00-07:002021-05-31T08:03:19-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:21698Living in Tiger Point, Florida If you are a young couple trying to start a new life together in a different location. The big city may not be the right answer for you. Instead, you would rather reside in a rural area where there are not too many distractions to worry about overnight. If rural life is what you prefer, then you should consider moving into a town like Tiger Point, Florida.
What the Statistics Say
Tiger Point is considered to be one of the best rural communities in the state of Florida. <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/tiger-point-santa-rosa-fl/">According to Niche</a>, it ranks very high in multiple categories. Tiger Point ranks as the 2nd best place to raise a family in the Pensacola area. The 7th best suburb to buy a house in Florida. And the 18th best suburb to raise a family in Florida. Tiger Point’s public schools rank as the 12th best in all of Florida.
Having a population of roughly around 3,000, Tiger Point has a median home value of $243,100 and a median rent of $1,650. It is a tightly knit rural community as 91% of residents own their property outright. When it comes to working in. Niche gives it a solid A grade based on employment rates, job and business growth.
<a href="https://www.areavibes.com/tiger+point-fl/">According to Areavibes</a>, Tiger Point has a livability score of 86. The revealing statistics happen to be the crime rates, which are in your favor. Total crime rates are 76% lower than the national average. Violent crime rates are 77% lower than the national average. Property crime rates are 76% lower than the national average. Tiger Point is typically regarded as a safe Florida community.
Tiger Point is located on the western tip of the Florida panhandle on the Pensacola Bay along the Gulf Coast. It is both a beach town and a military town that carries a lot of history when it comes to sightseeing and architecture. The storied history of Tiger Point includes it being exchanged between nations as many as 13 times. Before ultimately becoming part of the United States, the area has been occupied by the French, British and Spanish.
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What To Do in Tiger Point
Tiger Point Park is a great place to start. It features all sorts of outdoor activities for people of all ages to participate in. If you are intending to raise a family in Tiger Point and want your children to partake in outdoor activities. Taking them to Tiger Point Park would be a good first step. Working with the <a href="https://www.tpsports.net/Default.aspx">Tiger Point Sports Association</a>, the park offers sports such as baseball, T-ball, flag football, soccer, and softball for both youth and adults. Basketball and tennis are also available, having two courts each in the park.
Golfing
One of the first things that you can do in Tiger Point is head out to the beach, which is a natural choice given its location. If you are the sporty type and love to perform physical activities, then you might want to stop by the <a href="https://tigerpointgolf.com/">Tiger Point Golf Club</a>. It is a public golf club that has a restaurant, and it is open every day from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.
This is a beautiful golf course that is designed specifically to match the feel of the Gulf Coast atmosphere. If you are looking for a challenge on this golf course, consider the 3rd, 4th and 5th holes. The 3rd hole has a creative hole layout, the 4th hole has a wonderful backdrop, and the 5th hole is famous for its island green.
Creative Activities
If you happen to be more of a creative and artistic person, then taking your family to an art studio can be a viable option in Tiger Point. Located on 4327 Gulf Breeze Parkway is the <a href="https://www.sunnydaysartstudio.com/">Sunny Days Art Studio</a>, which promotes aspiring artists to be creative with various arts and crafts. For each painter, there is a $5 studio fee, which covers kiln firing, painting supplies and the glaze of your choice when decorating an item. After choosing a ceramic item, which will cost anywhere from $5 and up, you wait 7 to 14 business days for the finished item to process.
If you have a large group of people (more than 14) attending the studio, you will need to make special arrangements. Sunny Days Art Studio also accommodates those who are celebrating their birthdays as they have a party room. For a non-refundable fee of $30 you can throw a ceramic painting-themed birthday party in the party room. There are many interesting and unique ceramic items to choose from, and painting these items in any way you want gives you the freedom to express your creativity.
Relaxing on the Beach
Tiger Point borders the famous <a href="https://floridapanhandle.com/pensacola-beach/things-to-do/santa-rosa-sound/">Santa Rosa Sound</a>, a giant lagoon that stretches 33 miles long between Pensacola Bay and Choctawatchee Bay. Its shores offer a quiet experience for those who just want to sit on the beach and relax. The Sound hosts a good amount of the Gulf Intercoastal Waterway, which is between Gulf Breeze and Fort Walton Beach. The Sound can be accessed by going through Tiger Point, and especially during the summer season the whole family can enjoy a sunny day on its shorelines.
Cost of Living
While Tiger Point presents itself as a beautiful place to live in, how much will it cost you to live there? Combining the ratings on both <a href="https://www.bestplaces.net/city/florida/tiger_point">BestPlaces</a> and Areavibes, Tiger Point has a cost of living rate of 109.6, which is slightly above both the Florida average and the national average. Housing prices may be a concern if you have any trouble saving money. Combing the rates given by BestPlaces and Areavibes, Tiger Point scores a housing rate of 130.
If you are only looking to rent out a place, then be prepared to spend some money. Homes with a studio bedroom size will cost an average of $865. Which is only slightly above the Florida and national averages. If you rent a home with one bedroom, you will be paying $873 for it, which is below the Florida and national averages. A home with two bedrooms would cost you around $1,048 in rent. If you have a large family and need more space, a home with three bedrooms would cost around $1,470 and a home with four bedrooms would cost around $1,840.
In the Pensacola-FerryPass-Brent Metro area, the overall cost of living is 136.3, which is well above the national average. Having said that, the one major advantage in calling the state of Florida home is that there is no state income tax, so you will have an easier time saving money to get your ideal home.
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Employment
Can you find a job in Tiger Point? The short answer is yes, but by breaking down the numbers you will see how stable of a job market this community has. The average income per Capita is $42,234, which is well above the national average of $31,177. The average household income in Tiger Point is $90,083, well above the national average of $57,652. The current unemployment rate in Tiger Point as of 2021 is 4.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 6.0%.
Some of the best jobs that you can find in Tiger Point include manufacturing (average earnings of $83,750), professional, scientific and technical services ($65,843), public administration ($58,906), and educational services ($48,750). The average salary that employees in Tiger Point receive is $80,680.
Commuting to Work
Commute time to work is just as important as having a job. Making a one-way commute to your place of occupation in Tiger Point would take you an average of 28.7 minutes. That is slightly longer than the national average of 26.4 minutes. You will most likely see people drive their own cars to work. With only 83% of Tiger Point employees use a car to commute. Only 7.4% of workers would prefer to use a carpool system to commute to their jobs. Only 0.8% of workers ride bicycles to get to work.
Safety
According to BestPlaces, Tiger Point scores a 14.3 rating in violent crime, which is below the national rate of 22.7. Property crime in this suburb has a 27.1 rating, which is below the national rate of 35.4. According to Areavibes, total crime rates are 76% below the national average. Violent crime rates are 77% below the national average, and property crimes are 76% below the national average. No matter how you view these rates. You can be rest assured that Tiger Point is one of the safest places in the Florida Panhandle to live.
Conclusion
Tiger Point serves as a potentially great destination for those that want to get away from busier city life. You will get more comfort in a rural community that is laid back and easygoing. A place that offers plenty of things to do and many job opportunities. You can relax in Tiger Point knowing that there are low crime rates. Tiger Point is a safe place to move to if you have a family. And you will have the freedom to spend your day the way you want to along the Florida Panhandle.2021-05-12T09:11:00-07:002021-05-31T08:01:38-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:18028Buying a Fixer Upper: Should You Do It? Part 2In part two of our fixer-upper series, we discuss some more pros and cons of buying a fixer-upper. It's important to know the pros and cons so you make the best decision possible. First, let's talk about the finances of buying a fixer upper.
Fixer-Uppers Can Turn Into A Financial Burden
You may be excited to score a great sale price on a fixer-upper, but your costs won’t end there. A fixer-upper home requires continuing financial involvement. How much you ultimately spend is up to the ambitiousness and style of your projects.
Even if you consider all of the below—know that it’s fairly rare for remodeling project budgets to align with their estimates at the end of the project. Often, remodeling project budgets run higher than their original estimates. This is because of surprises, unsatisfactory work, and wasted materials happen.
Below are the major investments that come with obtaining a fixer-upper home.
Cost of Materials
You’ll need to think about the material needed for every project in every room, exterior component, and outdoor space. Buyer beware—it’s easy to overspend on premium materials and appliances. You may need to visit several hardware retailers before you find one with materials and appliances that suit your budget and style.
Cost of Permits
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Financial_burden_from_fixer_upper-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Financial burden from fixer upper" style="float: left;" />Depending on the age of your home and the depth of your project, you’ll need to apply for various permits to complete your restorations. Although they seem like a hassle, permits are intended to ensure the safety of you, your visitors, and any future residents.
Common permits for fixer-upper projects include foundation, construction trailer, solar components, multifamily, and demolition permits. The price for building permits varies on a state and city basis.
Cost of Tools
Unless you already have a shop full of tools, you will have to buy tools for your remodel. Depending on the ambitiousness of your project, you may even have to buy specialty tools.
If you are starting this project with hardly any tools or no tools at all, you may want to buy used tools (you can buy your tools new, but that is a huge addition to your overhead costs. Plus, many individual fixer-upper homebuyers get by just fine with used tools).
If you’re a real estate investor looking to do all or most of the work yourself, it may be in your best interest to buy newer or higher quality tools since you’ll likely be using them again in the future.
Fortunately, there is usually an active used tools market in every city. So be sure to check your local yard sales or online community marketplace for the tools you need. You can then resell or donate your used tools once you are done using them.
Cost of Labor
If you’re outsourcing some or all of the work, you’ll need to have a variable budget ready for contracting work. The cost of hiring contractors includes the manual labor itself, the cost of materials, the use of contractor equipment.
If you want to save on the costs of materials—which are usually bought by the contractor and billed to you with markup, you can buy the materials yourself and provide them to the contractor. The tradeoff here is you’re spending your time, money, and energy buying and transporting the materials instead of the contractor. You’ll decide if that’s worth your effort or not.
Fixer-Uppers Require Substantial Personal Investment
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Fixer-upper_home-3-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Fixer-upper home" style="float: right;" />Fixing up an old home is not for the weak; it takes a lot of involvement and dedication. It is a job that can be extremely stressful—you have to make a lot of decisions and be responsible for the execution and outcomes of every single one of them. This is definitely a project that will test your limits.
Many fixer-upper home buyers also struggle with analysis paralysis and buyer remorse. You may overanalyze, second-guess, or doubt your choices. You may even regret your decisions as soon as you make them.
What To Consider Before Buying a Fixer-Upper
If you’ve made it this far and are still interested in purchasing a fixer-upper—great! And if you want to enjoy yourself while remodeling, you should inform yourself as much as possible. Here we’ve compiled a list of useful things to consider before you do so much as remove an old nail. Take a look!
Have an Understanding of the Work Ahead
Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the journey that lies ahead once you sit down and plan your projects.
If you’re outsourcing some or all of the work, find reputable contractors—complete with reviews, recommendations, and portfolios—and interview them before tearing anything down. Think about your ideal contract terms and project lengths. Be prepared to ask contractors about their policies regarding warranties and repairs after construction, as well as reimbursements for dissatisfactory or unfinished work.
Think about your vision for your remodeled house. Do you envision remodeling every room? Before you become too eager, know that demolition is always easier than remodeling. Don’t be too excited to tear everything down the first week, especially if you’re going to live in the house while you’re fixing it up. Instead, split up your demolition and remodels into manageable milestones.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Realistic_expectations_for_a_fixer-upper-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Realistic expectations for a fixer-upper" style="float: left;" />Have Realistic Expectations of What You Can Do
Most people who buy fixer-uppers dream about doing all or most of the work themselves. It is an ambitious task and awesome if you do it, but not everyone is cut out to be a concrete layer, plumber, framer, carpenter, painter, tiler—you get the point—all at once.
You may see buying a fixer-upper as a time for you to learn a bunch of skills at once. Unless you’re a real estate investor who’s going to repeat this process all over again, we don’t recommend this route. If you expect to buy this home and live in it for a long time, we instead recommend you get a professional to help you.
If you embark on this project with little to no home improvement skills, you’re setting yourself up for a long road of stress, perfectionism, and unrealistic expectations (i.e., it’s not terribly fun to learn how to cut trim for windows only to create substandard results, especially if you’re using expensive or specialty materials).
So if at first you thought you could wear many hats—or if at first, you decided you wanted to wear many hats, know that it’s ok to hire a professional to help you if you become exhausted.
Have Your Living Situation Figured Out
Iron out all of your living details before you begin your demolition and remodel. The easiest, most comfortable route would be for you to live off-site while working on your fixer-upper. This is especially true if you have dependents such as elderly parents, kids, or even pets living with you.<br />
On the other hand, some people will be just fine living in one room while working on one or several other rooms in their house. In this case, you will have to be okay living in a constant state of change—meaning you may be living around building materials and debris—throughout the duration of your project.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Happy_couple_renovating-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Happy couple renovating" />
Tips Before Buying a Fixer-Upper
Below are a few strategies to set you up for success if you decide to dive into the deep end and buy a fixer-upper.
Consider Your Financing Options
The market demand for fixer-uppers can be mysterious. While some fixer-uppers age on the market, others go under contract within hours of their active listing, sometimes for than their listing price.
The very first thing you’ll want to do is get yourself preapproved for a home loan. This way, when the right fixer-upper appears on the housing market, you’re ready to make an offer and get to work.
Check with your realtor about the different types of loans available to you. There are many different kinds of loans available to all kinds of people like FHA, veterans, and fixed-rate loans. Depending on your city or state, you may also qualify for government subsidies or incentives.
Have a Professional Perform an Inspection
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Inspection_by_Professional-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Inspection by a professional" style="float: left;" />It’s important that you get a professional inspector to look at your fixer-upper before you buy it. Even if you’re sure you’re going to demo everything on the lot after purchase, you’ll want to create a list of contingencies for purchase and perform your due diligence.
A professional like an inspector or engineer will generate a report on the condition of the house, and give you a better idea of the work and costs that lie ahead. A professional contractor can help you identify costly repairs such as foundation, roofing, electrical issues, and more.
Just know, before you purchase your fixer-upper, a professional cannot foresee every single problem with the house. If you buy a fixer-upper, be prepared to run into surprises down the road.
Calculate a Fair Purchase Offer
Oftentimes, the seller of a fixer-upper who wants to get rid of a decrepit property weighs them down financially. Use whatever leverage you have—the age of the house, the inspector’s report, the repairs you’ll need to do to make the house livable, to negotiate a fairer purchase price for the house.
Create a Project Plan and Estimate, Then Check Them Twice
We won’t harp on the importance of creating a thorough project plan and timeline because we’ve already discussed it earlier. In this section, we just want to emphasize the importance of reviewing your plans and estimates.
When it comes to fixer-uppers, expect the unexpected. There are always surprises and changes during home remodeling. Materials run out of stock, material costs change, weather prevents you from working, contractors quit, you quit, tools break, contractors go over budget, and more.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Fixer-upper_in_Pensacola_Florida-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Fixer-upper in Pensacola FL" style="float: right;" />
We don’t want to scare you off and say that everything will go wrong. We just want you to be prepared for the worst to happen. Remember to stay positive, take a breath, and look for creative ways to work around adversity.
Negotiate Contractor Bids
Remember, when it comes to construction and contracting: all prices are negotiable. Wherever you go, there will be tons of contractors, each wanting to complete your job. Make sure you get the right combination of professionalism and quality for your budget.
Plan Projects Into Manageable Milestones
Remodeling a house is a big job. It’s easy to imagine the finished product house when you’re under contract. But it can be harder to see the light at the end of the tunnel once you’re in the thick of remodeling.
Write down a plan for your remodel on a room-by-room basis. Set realistic weekly goals for each room. Celebrate your milestones to help you stay motivated throughout your project.
Give Your Neighbors a Head’s Up
Some projects—like roofing, landscaping, window trimming, and flooring may make a lot of noise and debris. It’s best to start off on the right foot in your new neighborhood by giving your neighbors a heads up of the upcoming work you’re planning. Let them know that you’ll be working on the house for a little while, and assure them that it won’t last forever. Schedule loud or messy work during the workday when most people aren’t home, and save quieter work like interior painting for nighttime work.
Get Friends and Family to Help
You can minimize your operating costs and have more fun if you have the help of people who support you. You can also get advice and insights from friends or family that have done remodeling before. You may even be lucky to know some friends or family with some craftsmen skills. Just be sure you repay your generous friends and family with food, drink, and lots of gratitude.
Take a Break or Hire Professional Help When You Need It
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blueprint_for_fixer-upper-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Blueprint for fixer-upper" style="float: left;" />Did you take on more than you thought you could? If you feel crushed by the weight of all the remaining tasks, get help right away.
It’s ok to take a break if you feel overwhelmed by all the projects at hand. Taking a break when things get too emotional or stressful can actually be better for your health and for the success of the project. By taking a break, you’ll give yourself some time and rest and come back with a fresh perspective. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to tackle your fixer-upper once again. Remember, rest is a productive activity.
During your break, if you decide a particular project is no longer worth your personal time or manual labor, hire a professional to help you complete the unfinished job.
We’ll also let you in on a little secret—people will still buy half-renovated homes. Especially if you’re in a desirable location. If at any point you feel like your project is lasting too long or you’ve lost interest in remodeling your fixer-upper, you can always sell it. Just be sure to contact a skilled real estate team to help you out.
Sell Your Unused or Leftover Materials
If you fix up your home and have leftover materials, sell them. You can recoup some of your initial costs by having a yard sale. You can also list your remaining tools and materials on your community’s online market.
Conclusion
So should you buy a fixer-upper? It really depends on your limits. You certainly have to have a lot of gusto for work and organization. You also have to be financially and personally flexible. If, after all of this, fixing a fixer-upper sounds good to you, you should definitely go for it!
After you finish remodeling your fixer-upper, celebrate! Invite your friends, family, neighbors, heck—even your contractors over to enjoy the new beauty of your home! It will feel so good to finally enjoy your home after all the hard work you put into it.2021-04-29T09:39:00-07:002021-04-15T22:46:06-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:18027Buying a Fixer-Upper: Should You Do It? Part 1Buying a fixer-upper is a lot like a rollercoaster. It’s exhilarating and stressful. There are ups, downs, twists, turns, and lots of surprises. You feel both invigorated and exhausted when it’s all over. And everyone loves to brag about how they did when the ride is over.
Buying a fixer-upper is not for the faint-hearted. Repairing a fixer-upper is a long-term commitment with many factors and moving parts—namely time, labor, costs, materials, and your personal limits.
If you’ve been playing with the idea of buying and remodeling a fixer-upper, keep reading. In this first part of our fixer-upper series, we weigh the pros and cons of purchasing a fixer-upper. We offer key considerations and invaluable advice to help you decide whether or not buying a fixer-upper is the right choice for you.
What Is a Fixer-Upper
A fixer-upper is an old, outdated house in dire need of structural repairs and/or style updates. A fixer-upper may have moderate to severe damage to one or several systems, like structural, electrical, plumbing, irrigation, and more. A fixer-upper usually has one or more building code violations, which can make modern repairs tricky. It is not uncommon for a home like this to remain on the real estate market for long periods of time.
Purchasing and repairing a fixer-upper is a huge endeavor. Working on a fixer-upper requires extensive planning, spending, negotiating, and managing. Not to mention overseeing job sites, making back-and-forth phone calls, and handling stress.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/House_after_fixer_upper-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="House after fixer upper" style="float: left;" />Be warned: remodeling a fixer-upper means juggling a lot of variables over a long period of time. When it comes to fixer-uppers, the more you know, the better. You’ll want to inform yourself as much as possible before you purchase a fixer-upper home.
Why Buy a Fixer-Upper
That being said, there’s a lot of appeal in buying a fixer-upper home. The reasons why someone would want to buy a breaking or broken-down home include affordability, investment opportunity, and freedom of customizability.
Fixer-Upper Affordability
For those looking to purchase inexpensive real estate, fixer-uppers offer tremendous opportunities. Buyers have a lot of leverage when it comes to negotiating the sale price of the home. Fixer-upper homes are priced low to sell quickly, especially if they have been listed on the market for a long time.
And if the house has little to no buyer interest, buyers can lowball the asking price by delineating the time, effort, and money it will take to make the home habitable.
And for first-time homebuyers with tight budgets, fixer-uppers can be a real-estate steal when paired with a first-time homebuyer loan.
Fixer-Uppers as Real Estate Investments
For those interested in profiting from the appreciation or rentability of a newly remodeled home, fixer-uppers are attractive investments. To real estate investors, a fixer-upper is a golden opportunity to flip a rundown home into a trendy investment property that is rentable or sellable.
If you’re able to keep remodeling costs low and the project length relatively short, you can make a huge profit flipping fixer-upper homes.
Take, for example, a crumbling and outdated home among a neighborhood of nicer and newly renovated homes. Before remodeling, the fixer-upper in this situation could sell for tens of thousands of dollars less than its neighboring homes. After remodeling, the home could appreciate and sell for the same price or more than its neighboring homes.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/New_kitchen_and_living_room-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="New kitchen and living room" style="float: right;" />
Fixer-Upper Pride and Customizability
The imagination that a fixer-upper spark is one of its biggest selling points. People love imagining what could be. They love picturing themselves in a modernized home, designed by them and seemingly perfect in every way.
To ambitious homebuyers, a fixer-upper is a challenge. It is an extension of the American dream, an invitation to build one’s ideal home.
For others, rebuilding a fixer-upper is a matter of pride. Some people enjoy working with their hands. They like to take old things and make them like new.
The Advantages of Buying a Fixer-Upper
There’s no doubt fixer-uppers are a lot of work. But we would be remiss to not list all the advantages that come with purchasing an old home below market price. Those reasons being complete control, cost-effectiveness, investment returns, honing craftsmen skills, and leveling up your negotiation skills.
Fixer-Uppers Can Cost Less Than Turn-Key Homes
With turn-key homes, you pay a premium to move into a brand new home without any need for additional work.
However, if executed smartly, rehabilitating a fixer-upper can cost a fraction of what you might pay for a turn-key home. And what’s more, you’ll be building a house designed with your style in mind. Imagine being able to build the house of your dreams for less than the cost of your neighbor’s home!
To achieve this result, you either have to do the renovations yourself or be shrewd with your contract negotiation and bidding terms.
Fixer-Uppers Are Great Real Estate Investments
Fixer-uppers tend to be worthwhile real estate ventures, whether you intend to keep the fixer-upper long-term or just until the end of its remodel.
Fixer-uppers almost always guarantee a steep rise in value after being renovated. You can either cash out on tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars immediately after your project’s finish, or you can let it appreciate for years afterward and build up a valuable nest egg.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Renovated_home-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Renovated home" style="float: left;" />Fixer-Uppers Make Craftsmen
Due to their inherent nature of needing to be worked on, fixer-uppers have a knack for teaching buyers craftsmen skills whether they like it or not.
You’ll get to wear many craftsman hats if you plan to refurbish all or most of your fixer-upper. Most people initially find this idea very appealing because they want to improve or learn new skills.
You will still pick up on information and know-how for craftsman tasks even if you aren’t doing any renovations yourself. This is because you’ll have to correspond with various construction teams like framers, insulators, electricians, plumbers, and more.
Fixer-Uppers Make Business-Minded People Happy
Fixer-upper projects are perfect people who like to keep busy. The planning for these homes stimulates business-oriented individuals with an immense amount of finance, material, and personal logistics. Not to mention an endless amount of negotiating and inter-team correspondence between material suppliers, contractors, community officials, and so on.
The Disadvantages of Buying a Fixer-Upper
You may initially enjoy the idea of becoming a rich, master home builder with a beautiful abode. You may also realize that you are not good at measuring or working with tools or you do not have the patience to manage a large project. To help you stay level-headed in your decisions, here are some major disadvantages of buying a fixer-upper home.
Fixer-Uppers are a Huge Time Investment<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Stressed_by_fixer_upper-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Stressed by fixer upper" style="float: left;" />
No matter how many people you hire to help, you can’t remodel a house in a week. You won’t be able to enjoy or resell your fixer-upper until you’ve completed all your work, which could take months or years. That being said, fixer-uppers are a long-term commitment.
It Takes Time to Plan a Good Remodel
Before you do any work, you have to plan out your projects. You’ll want to anticipate as many projects and setbacks as possible. You’ll need to compile a list of all the materials you’ll need, create a timeline for each project phase, and have a thorough understanding of the laws and codes that come into play with your work.
For example, if you plan to do a complete remodel of the interior, exterior, and yard, you’ll need to divide your project into three phases. From there, you’ll break down each phase into mini-projects.
Your interior project phase could be a room-by-room plan or focus on upgrading the living spaces first plan before moving onto the bedrooms. With this sort of plan, you’ll want to identify roadblocks and variables such as load-bearing walls, foundational issues, and outdated electrical wiring.
Continuing with our example, your exterior projects could be broken up on a component basis, such as starting with replacing the roofing, doors, and windows, painting the exterior, refinishing exterior spaces like decks and patios. You’ll want to identify foreseeable obstacles like inclement weather, lot boundaries, and irrigation planning.
You’ll also need to have a place to store your tools and materials. If there’s room, you can store them in your garage. Depending on how much exterior space you have, you can also purchase an outdoor shed, order an onsite storage unit, or rent an offsite storage space.
It Takes Time To Learn About Building Codes<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Building_codes-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Building codes" style="float: right;" />
If you want to fix up an old home, you have to make sure the methods you use to abide by modern building codes. You will have to inform yourself of your city’s building codes. When it comes to adhering to building codes, we do not recommend you rely on your research alone. It is best to consult with a professional before you begin doing any work yourself. This way, you ensure you are not inadvertently breaking building codes. Breaking building codes can cause hazards and decrease the value of your home.
It Takes Time to Apply for Permits
Some renovations will require you to get specialized building permits. The application, waiting, and approval process can take weeks or months. If getting a permit is something you anticipate, make sure you have plans to do other remodeling work in the meantime that doesn’t rely on these permits, so there’s no downtime during your remodel.
You’ll Use A Lot of Your Personal Time
If you want to purchase a fixer-upper, you’ll need to sacrifice a good deal of personal time.
If you plan to do the work yourself, you will have to dedicate time to research, design, and repair. Not to mention all the time you will going back and forth to the hardware store.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/No_more_free_time-2.png" width="600" height="400" alt="No more free time" style="float: left;" />
You’ll still have to sacrifice a lot of personal time even if you hire a construction team or remodeling team to do your work. Even with a construction crew doing the bulk of the work for you, you’ll need to come on sight to your house until it is finished to oversee the work that is being done.
If you’re not convinced about the temporal constraints of a remodel, consider the seemingly simple task of painting a room.
To properly paint a room, you need to prepare your brushes and paint, tape off areas you don’t want to paint, scrub the walls clean, apply a primer, let it dry for at least two hours, paint the first coat, let that dry for at least two hours, paint another coat, let that dry for at least two hours, and then clean your brushes and paint spills. This example doesn’t even include the technicalities that go into painting a room professionally, like cutting in paint between walls.
Join Us for Part Two!
We hope the first part of this blog post was informative for your decision to buy a fixer-upper or not. Join us in two weeks for part two of this series to get more information about finances and why you may what to invest in a fixer-upper.2021-04-16T09:11:00-07:002021-04-15T22:03:56-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:174408 Reasons People Choose the Cottonwood CommunityDo you know why people love the Cottonwood Community so much? Picture this... You’re making sandwiches on your kitchen island. You watch your children play tag on your lush lawn through your living room French doors. Sunshine pours into your open living space. Your children take a break and sprawl under the shade of a mature oak tree. This is exactly where you want to be, in your very own slice of serenity.<br /><br />This is just a glimpse into what the Cottonwood Community has to offer. Here are eight more reasons why the Cottonwood Community is the first choice of many Santa Rosa County residents.
Family-Friendly, Neighborly Atmosphere
If you’re looking for a place to raise your family, look no further. The Cottonwood Community is built to raise happy families, and designed to nurture them in a dependable community.
Comfort, Space, and Amenities
Your family will be comfortable through all sorts of weather in this modern community. The new construction homes are move-in ready; they have all the style and comfort you need.
Our pristine homes are energy-efficient and easy to maintain. Each home is equipped with eco-friendly appliances, insulation, heating, and cooling. Keep your home cozy or cool year-round with its brand-new windows, HVAC systems, and gas fireplaces.
Each community home is built on a three-quarter or half-acre lot—that’s more than enough space for you to grill and chill while your kids splash in your pool or play catch. There’s ample space for you to park your vehicles in their deep driveways, leaving you plenty of room to set up your workshop in the two and three-car garages.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Cottonwood_Community_Home-2.png" width="564" height="376" alt="Cottonwood Community Home" style="float: right;" />
There’s enough room for everyone to grow inside each Cottonwood Community home. The homes are built with a minimum of three bedrooms and two bathrooms and a maximum of five bedrooms and four bathrooms.
You’ll never hear your kids fighting for space with the double-sink vanities, large bedrooms, and open-concept living areas. What’s more, the Cottonwood Community—and the vast lawns—happily welcome your furry companions.
We also offer a wealth of neighborhood amenities, like easy online payment portals, a community pond, streetlights, and underground utilities. You would be surprised—despite the spaciousness of the homes and lots, your neighbors are still able to maintain a close-knit feel with recurring community engagement events.
Community Events and Involvement
There’s always something fun happening at the Cottonwood Community; here there is no shortage of neighborhood social events like yard sales, ice cream socials, food trucks, holiday celebrations, and block parties.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/shutterstock_373712962-2.png" width="559" height="373" alt="HOA Meeting" style="float: left;" />If you want to participate in the upkeep of your community you can attend the Homeowner's Association meetings! The community holds and documents monthly meetings where proactive members gather to discuss and vote on communal issues. These include fixing community items light streetlights or cleaning up storm waste. They also define development initiatives and spend the annual neighborhood budget to improve the area. If there are any safety concerns, they will come up with solutions at these meetings as well.
It’s easy to stay up-to-date on all the latest happenings with the Cottonwood Community newsletters. The neighbors are also active participants on their Facebook and Nextdoor groups.
At the Cottonwood Community, we do everything we can to create an inclusive environment that you are proud to live in. We strive to encourage an atmosphere where you can work with your neighbors to create an environment where your children can grow, learn, and make lifetime friends.
Proximity to Great Schools
Speaking of friendship and learning, have you heard of the amazing schools in the area? The Cottonwood Communities are close to several noteworthy schools from Pre-K to college. Check out this extensive list of nearby schools!
Preschool
Berryhill Childcare
Berryhill Childcare serves your family with early childhood education and free Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK). In addition to caring for your little ones, Berryhill also offers enriching summer camps and afterschool programs for children up to 12 years old.
Capstone Academy Milton
In addition to early childhood education and VPK, Capstone serves your family with a variety of therapeutic services, like speech, occupational, physical, and food aversion programs.
Elementary School
The elementary schools of the area are blessed with caring, professional teachers and highly involved parents. The parents, teachers, and administrators of the Santa Rosa County school district work hard to foster creativity, growth, and achievement. The elementary schools in the area are Bennett C. Russel, East Milton, Pea Ridge and Dixon Primary.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Mom_saying_bye_to_child_at_school-2.png" width="568" height="379" alt="Mom saying bye to child at school" style="float: right;" />
Middle School
The middle schools of the area are dedicated to developing excellence in character and knowledge to prepare our children to become confident young adults and lifelong learners. The Cottonwood Community is lucky to have the following middle schools nearby:
Avalon
Gulf Breeze
Holly-Navarre
King
Santa Rosa Online
King
Sims
Woodlawn Beach
High School
The Cottonwood Community is home to a variety of high schools aiming to prepare our children for success in adulthood with superior education, diverse experiences, real-world knowledge. There are many high schools in the area including Central, Gulf Breeze, Pace, Milton, Navarre and online options.
College
Cottonwood Community residents feel lucky to have so many educational opportunities right outside their neighborhood. Whether your children stay home or live on campus, they’ll never be too far from home. Some of the nearby colleges on the west side of our sunshine state include Florida State University College of Medicine, University of West Florida College of Business, University College Pensacola and Pensacola State College.
Fortunately for Cottonwood Community residents, Pensacola State College has multiple campuses spanning the area. You and your children can choose from their Century, Milton, Downtown, and Warrington campuses.
Education is an important part of this community, and we are fortunate to have so much opportunity within the vicinity. When your children are grown and ready to move on, they’ll have no problem finding employment opportunities with the several major West Florida employers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Cottonwood_Street-2.png" alt="Cottonwood Street" width="537" height="358" />Proximity to Major Employers
The Pensacola area is home to a variety of monumental employers. The Cottonwood residents come from a variety of professional backgrounds and work for companies like Baptist Health Care, Gulf Power Company, Santa Rosa Medical Center, iGate and more. Additionally, there are many military contractor opportunities thanks to the proximity to the nearby military bases. If you’re a hard worker or busy bee like their residents, you’ll fit in just fine in the Cottonwood neighborhood.
Safety and Security
After a long day of school and work, home is your place of solitude and retreat. The Cottonwood Community prides itself on being a gorgeous rural haven for our busy city-folk. Safety is the top priority with their residents and make no compromises or exceptions.
The Cottonwood Community ensures all neighbors receive the security and relaxation they deserve. This gated community is nestled privately among mature trees and foliage to keep passerbys from looking in. We maintain two private points of entry and exit, streetlights, and neighborhood watch campaigns so you don’t have to feel vulnerable in your neighborhood.
In addition to taking the utmost precaution for your safety, the community members are proactive in maintaining programs like safe traffic and pet policies. Rest assured you’ll be safe in your home and around your community.
Beauty Inside and Out<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Upscale_home_in_Cottonwood_Community-2.png" width="556" height="371" alt="Upscale home in Cottonwood Community" style="float: right;" />
The Cottonwood Community’s durable homes are built to last and never go out of style. The exterior architecture features a modern brick design, large windows with decorative shutters, accent dormer windows, stately arches, and impeccably manicured lawns and gardens.<br />
Each home is nestled within a gorgeous neighborhood polished with mature oak trees, vibrant palm trees, and elegant magnolias. Cottonwood homeowners love the contemporary interior packages. Homeowners love the base and upgrade style amenities like:
Open-concept living areas
Granite counters
Soft-close cabinets
Stainless steel appliances
Wall ovens
Kitchen islands
Soaring ceilings
Crown molding
Hardwood and tile floors
Garden tubs
Double-sink vanities
As you can see, the Cottonwood Community has so much to offer its neighbors. But when you’re ready to leave your homely paradise for a while, we are close to many desirable city attractions.
Close to the City
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Milton_Florida-2.png" width="565" height="377" alt="Milton, Florida map" style="float: left;" />The Cottonwood Community is close to many city attractions that cater to your family’s health and entertainment needs. Located in Milton, you are a few minutes from Pensacola. You are also close to the Alabama border, making it a great location. Check the list below for a glimpse into the many popular offices and businesses that surround the community.
Healthcare and Dentistry
Healthcare facilities in the area include the Santa Rosa Medical Center, Pensacola Pediatrics, Pensacola Primary Care and Milton Health Care Offices. For Dental practices, there is Comprehensive Dental Center, Webster Family Dentistry and others that are further away.
Entertainment and Recreation
There are many opportunities for entertainment and recreation in the area. The closest source of entertainment is the Tanglewood Golf and Country Club. In fact, the HOA meeting for Cottonwood Community is in their community center. Other recreation options include the Milton community center, the Milton library, Steve Morgan Skate Park and more. Not to mention, the Northwest Florida area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Within just a few miles, you can enjoy white sand beaches and the bright blue ocean.
Affordability
The Cottonwood Community is a place of rural respite, dazzling style, and modern luxury.
With all these remarkable features, you’ll be pleased to know these homes are incredibly affordable given their modernity and location. The Cottonwood Community homes are available for purchase from the high $200,000s to high $400,000s.
Become a Neighbor Today
Our new-construction homes are popular and won’t be available forever. Be the first to enjoy the comforts the new homes have to offer for you and your family.
If you would like to move to the Cottonwood community, <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact The Hansen Team</a>! We specialize in the Pensacola and Northwest Florida area. Our team would be happy to help you find the perfect home for your family, whether if it’s in the Cottonwood Community or another home in the area.2021-03-23T07:17:00-07:002021-03-09T12:51:15-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:17376How to Know If a Neighborhood is Family FriendlyYou and your spouse are parents in the market for a new house. You want to know if a neighborhood that catches your interest is the right one for you and your family. It is an important decision to make because where you live can affect so many aspects of your kids' lives.
How to Know a Neighborhood is Family Friendly
Many home buyers only focus on education and social opportunities when accessing a neighborhood. But, education and social life are only two aspects that impact if a neighborhood is family friendly or not. There are many other considerations to pay attention to. However, let us take a step back and review the process that goes into determining if a neighborhood is family friendly.
Get Information From a Real Estate Agent
A good first step to take involves having a conversation with a real estate agent. Especially if this agent has children of their own, you can get valuable information about the neighborhood you are targeting. This information includes what condition the nearest school buildings are in. Additionally, if there are any playgrounds nearby, and if there are any casual hang-out places for parents. Keep in mind the real estate agent you talk to may have preferences on certain neighborhoods. But, a great real estate agent should be able to separate their preferences from their client's best interests.
Read Local Reviews
Pay attention to what those who live in the neighborhood you plan on moving to have to say. Whether it is through a newspaper or by going online via websites like <a href="https://patch.com/">Patch</a>, <a href="https://www.niche.com/places-to-live/survey/">Niche</a>, or <a href="https://nextdoor.com/find-neighborhood/">Nextdoor</a>, it helps to stay up to date on what's happening in the neighborhood.
Typical questions locals answer regarding their neighborhood will include whether or not kids typically play outside, if there are sidewalks, and if the neighbors are friendly. Additionally, they will answer how much noise is in the neighborhood, and if the streets are well-lit at night. Keeping track of the happenings in the neighborhood and how locals feel about it will help you get a better sense of what to expect should your family move there.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Neighborhood_thats_family_friendly-2.png" width="511" height="340" alt="Neighborhood that's family friendly" style="float: right;" />
Quality of Nearby Schools
If you plan on sending your children to a public school, this factor should be at the top of the list. Conducting research on the schools that are close to your new neighborhood is critical. Make a comparison between all the public schools you feel will be the best fit for your children and methodically break them down.
Perhaps the neighborhood you are moving to has a public school system that doesn't have a good reputation. In this case, you should look into nearby private schools that are convenient to commute to and from. Also, consider the economics behind the school your children could be attending and determine if this form of education is affordable for you. However, if you have the opportunity to homeschool your kids, this won’t be an issue.
Assess Your Surroundings
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Family_Friendly_Neighborhood-2.png" width="514" height="343" alt="Family friendly neighborhood" style="float: left;" />Before you move into your new neighborhood, get a sneak peek at what you will be surrounding yourself with first. If you live nearby, consider driving around the neighborhood at different times of the day. Some neighborhoods have a completely different feel in the evening than they do in the daytime. So, drive around where you would like to move to make sure you like it at all times.
Also, put the neighborhood in question to an eye test and see if it meets your expectations. Do the houses that surround your new home look like they are well kept, or do they look run down? Does it look like the neighbors try to maintain their houses? This should have an impact on your decision on whether or not to move in. How your neighbors maintain their homes impacts the value of your home, so it's important you have good neighbors.
You can also check out what a neighborhood looks like by utilizing tools such as <a href="https://www.google.com/streetview/">Google Street View</a>. This will give you a basic map view of the neighborhood. From the starting point of your new front door, you will get to review the routes you will take to get to the nearest park or school. And, you will also get to see what condition the neighborhood is in without having to be there in person.
Condition of the Home For Sale<br />
If you value how hard your new neighbors try to maintain their houses, then you should equally value the condition of your future house. The cost of restoring a house, depending on its condition, should be another important factor. If you only have to deal with cosmetic damages, then determine if living with those damages will be a problem.
More severe damages such as those that impact the foundation of a house will be more difficult to address. List everything in the house that needs to be repaired and find out the general costs of fixing these listed items. Add everything up and if the overall cost of repairs of this house isn’t satisfactory, then you may need to rethink the idea of buying it. Both cosmetic and foundational issues are a pain to deal with, especially if you have children.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Pensacola_park_thats_family_friendly-2.png" width="526" height="351" alt="Pensacola park that's family friendly" style="float: right;" />
Places to Play
Does the neighborhood offer enough places for your children to play in? Whether this includes playgrounds for the neighborhood kids, or if it's a community pool, see if there are opportunities for your kids to have fun. If you are moving into a neighborhood that's right next to a local park, your children will have an opportunity to have fun. On the flip side, it's difficult to keep a child entertained if they don't have access to places that offer space for play. Remember if you have children, community amenities are key.
How Many Other Children Live in the Neighborhood?
A clear indicator that you have a family friendly neighborhood is if there are other children living in that neighborhood. You can check the statistics online to see how many families are present in the neighborhood. But, it's best to answer this by observing. Houses that have toys like strollers, bikes, miniature cars or swing sets surrounding them indicate that young kids are present. Or, if you are driving through and see kids playing outside, you are likely in a family friendly neighborhood.
How is Your Commute to Work?
Your occupation may be a big factor in determining if you and your family can live comfortably in your new neighborhood. Regardless of how appealing the new house looks, the purpose of living there would be defeated if your job doesn’t allow you to put your children to bed at night. Remember, if the neighborhood isn't "friendly" to your commute, it's not family friendly!
Map out your commute from the neighborhood to your job. See how long it will take during rush hour to see if it's doable. Childhood is an important period of time for your children as you need to be present in their lives to provide support. If you determine that your commuting time puts too much stress on you, then the potential new neighborhood may not work out.
What is the Neighborhood’s Crime Rate?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Family_happy_in_their_neighborhood-2.png" width="534" height="356" alt="Family happy in their neighborhood" style="float: left;" />Whether its setting is more urban or more rural, you must make sure the new neighborhood you and your family are moving into has a low crime rate. If you intend to start a family and raise children, the neighborhood you live in has to be safe and accommodating.
There are many online tools to use such as interactive crime maps to learn more about neighborhood crime rates. Some reliable interactive crime maps include those made by <a href="https://www.adt.com/crime">ADT</a>, <a href="https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/">Neighborhood Scout</a>, and <a href="https://www.areavibes.com/">Area Vibes</a>. These maps will compare the crime rate of one neighborhood to the national average. If a neighborhood ranks well below the national average, then you have a good area for your family. A neighborhood that ranks well above the national average is an area that you should consider avoiding.
Conclusion
There are many components that make up a family friendly neighborhood, and it is the responsibility of you as a parent to know what those components are. The right neighborhood for your family should have opportunities for your children to learn and play. But, should also have chances for you and your spouse to socialize with others and make progress professionally. The selection process of a new neighborhood isn’t always an easy one, but by conducting your own research, exploring potential residences and chatting up with locals, you can make a well-informed decision.
If you are moving to the Pensacola area, consider working with our team. We specialize in helping families find the perfect Pensacola neighborhood for their preferences. Contact us today to <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">get connected with a real estate agent</a>.2021-03-06T05:20:00-07:002021-03-05T21:39:52-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:17052How to Know When It's Time to MoveThinking of moving but don’t know where to begin? You may be tired of living in the same place, want a change of scenery, property taxes are outrageously high or your commute isn’t worth the low-cost of your home. If you’re having any of these thoughts, chances are a major life change is necessary. In this blog post, we will look at some major signs it's time to move.
How to Know It's Time to Move
Deciding to move is a serious decision to make. Undoubtedly, it's a difficult decision to make as well. If you have been in your home for numerous years, it can feel as though you are closing a chapter of your life and are starting a new one. This is especially the case if you raised your kids in the home you are currently in. But, if you have been itching to find a new home, it may be time to move. Take a look at the reasons below to see if you should move.
The Cost of Living is Too Expensive
Money is one of the major factors when considering to move or not. When owning a house, your mortgage and property taxes can take away a large portion of your income. Considering property taxes often increase in most areas of the country, the cost of your home is often increasing. So, if you can't afford the cost of your home, or if you no longer want to spend so much money on your home, it is time to move. There are likely other areas where you can get the same size home for less money. Or, you can find a smaller home with a better layout that suits your family better.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Is_It_Time_to_Move.png" width="555" height="370" alt="Is It Time to Move?" style="float: right;" />
Your Home is Outdated
Do you live in an older home? If so, you likely know older homes start to require more attention. Things tend to start breaking, wearing down and deteriorating—meaning maintenance is in order. The amount of money spent on fixing your home can quickly add up. At times, the repairs can equate to the amount of a down payment of a new home. If you are seeing a pattern of things having to be replaced or fixed in your home, it may be time to move. Although you will be required to pay for many of the broken machinery or damaged areas of your home, it may save you thousands of dollars later on.
Another factor with your home being outdated is you may be tired of its style. For example, many homes built in the 1970s have a particular style that some do not prefer. If you purchased a home with a style you don't like and cannot fix with renovations, moving is the best option. Do keep in mind that outdated fixtures and layouts may result in a lower home value when it comes time to sell.
Your Home is Feeling Too Cramped and Small
Did you move into your home when it was just you, and then you got married and eventually kids joined the equation? Let’s not forget any pets! If you are in this situation, you feel like your home is cramped. This is a sign that it’s time to start thinking about investing in a bigger place. Living in a two-bedroom, one-bath house with no space for anything else, including guests, can easily become frustrating.
Have you noticed that if you buy a new item, you most likely have to give something away because there’s also no storage room? Are your kids fighting because they are no longer at the age where they can share the same room? The house you started out with may be too small to fit the needs and wants of your family. So, it could be time to upgrade to a bigger home.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Couple_thinking_about_moving.png" width="560" height="374" alt="Couple thinking about moving" style="float: left;" />Your Home is Feeling Too Large
On the other hand, is your house feeling too large? Your home can eventually feel too big when comparing to how it felt when you moved in. Perhaps you found a large home for a great deal at one point, but you know it's too large for your family. This also happens to people who live alone. Either way, living in too large of a home can feel like a waste of space and money. Additionally, it's best to downsize to <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2019/02/04/retirement-savings-why-empty-nesters-should-downsize-homes/2444729002/" target="_blank">prepare for retirement</a>.
The most common reason people downsize, other than for financial reasons, is because their kids moved out. No matter how many kids you have, they will all (hopefully) move out when they become independent adults. This will immediately make your home feel as though it's too large. Especially if they have moved to a different city or state. So, in the case of being a new empty-nester, downsizing is a great option.
You Would Like Better Schools For Your Kids
One of the largest concerns for parents is the school district their kids are zoned to. Most parents choose to send their kids to public school rather than private school or homeschooling them. Unfortunately, we don't get to choose the public school our children are zoned to. It all depends on where your home is located, unless you get approval from the district to send them to a different school.
But, in the case you cannot send your child to a school they are not zoned to, if you are not happy with the education options, you need to move. Most children spend about 12 years in public school. If you are unhappy with the school district, this can feel like a lifetime. So, moving to a neighborhood with a better school district is the best option for your family. This may seem like a big <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Couple_excited_about_new_home.png" width="552" height="368" alt="Couple excited about new home" style="float: right;" />change over education quality, but the change can shape your child's future for the better.
You're Wanting Something New
Many people find themselves wanting something new after living in their home long-term. After living in a place for so long, it can eventually catch up to you and make you feel stuck. Perhaps you like your home, but would like to live in a better neighborhood. Or, maybe you want to live in the city rather than a suburban neighborhood.
If you’re feeling like this, it may be time to bring those dreams to life! You are in control of your own happiness and how you choose to live your life. If something isn’t making you happy anymore, change it. This includes moving to a brand new state and starting a new job.
Looking to Move to a New Home in Pensacola, Florida?
If you are feeling any of the above, it is likely time to move. Although it can be difficult to leave a place where you have made so many memories with family and friends, you can make new memories in a new home. And, you will be much happier when you're in a home you love. Moving is a natural part of life. We are not meant to be in one place our whole lives. It’s important to recognize any of these signs, because those indicate that it may be time to move on to the next chapter of your book. After all, your happiness and overall wellness is the most important thing to think about it.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Older_couple_moving.png" width="546" height="364" alt="Older couple moving" />If you would like to move to the Pensacola, Florida area, let our team find your dream home for you. Pensacola is the dream location for thousands of families because of its proximity to white sand beaches and jobs. Thankfully, there are dozens of neighborhoods that range in price, so anyone can find a home they can afford. Our team specializes in the Pensacola area, so <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact us</a> if you are considering the area.2021-02-19T06:48:00-07:002021-02-16T10:33:37-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:17043Cordova Park: The Neighborhood TodayCordova Park is a neighborhood in southeast Pensacola, Florida. The history of this neighborhood goes way back to the beginning of Pensacola. But, today, the neighborhood has a bustling community that many people call home. In this blog post, we discuss the neighborhood today and the amenities residents enjoy. First, let's cover the neighborhood's rich history.
The History of Cordova Park
The land that is now Cordova Park was once Henry Gerhardt Sophus Baars' property. Baars was a veteran who once worked at a British lumber firm. He eventually quit his job at this firm to start his own Pensacola firm. This catapulted him into success, hence why he owned so much land. 6,000 acres to be exact.
The Baars' driveway was what we know today as the Tree Tunnel. This family is likely behind the name Cordova Park because they named their mansion Cordova Towers. For more background on this family, we go far more in-depth in our blog post with the title, "<a href="https://www.erikhansenteam.com/2017/09/27/why-is-it-called-cordova-park/" target="_blank">Cordova Park Pensacola History</a>". The history of this family's property leads us to what Cordova Park is like today.
Cordova Park Today
Despite its history of being a wealthy family's property, Cordova Park turned out to be a friendly, small-town neighborhood for the middle-class society. Most of the neighborhood was built between the 1960s and the 1980s. Today, many homes have been renovated and expanded. The residents of this neighborhood often stay in their homes for decades, if not forever.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Cordova_Park_Pensacola_Florida.png" width="570" height="380" alt="Cordova Park Neighborhood" />
The neighborhood is surrounded by natural beauty and a scenic atmosphere. Coming into the neighborhood, you pass the Tree Tunnel. As mentioned above, this was once the Baars' driveway. However, today, it's a beautiful entrance into the neighborhood. When driving down the street surrounded by trees, you feel as though you are entering a new world.
The Cordova Park Schools
Although this is a family-friendly area, perfect for a family with children, there is only one school within the lines of the neighborhood. Cordova Elementary School, however, is a great school to have your children grow up in. Walking distant from the residential area, your kids will always be right down the street. Cordova Elementary was <a href="https://www.schooldigger.com/go/FL/schools/0051000790/school.aspx">ranked 87%</a> in the Florida state percentile in 2019 and 284th out of the 2,182 Florida elementary schools. Since it is a small community, there are 628 students, which gives your child the opportunity to have more attention given to them while learning.
What About Restaurants and Shopping Centers?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Shopping_center.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Shopping center" />
Cordova Park is mainly a residential area. With that being said, there are no places to shop or eat in the neighborhood itself. To find a shopping center, you must drive to the surrounding areas. However, just a five-minute drive away is a Tom Thumb grocery store. Additionally, down Bayou Boulevard, which is a street right in the middle of the neighborhood, are several restaurants.
It takes under 10 minutes to drive to the Cordova Mall, Publix Super Market, Lowe's and several fast-food restaurants. So, when you live in Cordova Park, you will have no problem with access to restaurants and shopping centers.
How Do Most Cordova Park Residents Spend Their Time?
The residents of Cordova Park tend to spend their time outdoors. There are a total of four parks within Cordova Park, with Baars Park being the largest. You will always find runners, walkers and bicyclists in the area. This is due to the trails and shade offered by the tall trees. Parks that have a playground are Pintado Park, Dunwody Park and Miralla Park. All of these also include softball fields and basketball courts that are open for sports practices or just for fun.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Dunwoody_Park_in_Cordova_Park.png" width="556" height="371" alt="Dunwody Park in Cordova Park" style="float: right;" />
People also visit the <a href="https://www.cityofpensacola.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/Roger-Scott-Athletic-Complex-6">Roger Scott Athletic Complex</a> which has a community pool and fields for baseball and softball. The pool has water slides and spray features. It costs just three dollars for children and four dollars for adults. This makes it the perfect activity for a hot Pensacola summer afternoon.
Also across the street from the Cordova Park neighborhood is the <a href="https://www.cityofpensacola.com/Facilities/Facility/Details/Vickrey-Resource-Center-97">Vikrey Resource Center</a>. This center has an indoor gym that costs Pensacola residents $35 per month. Considering it's just a short walk away from the Cordova Park neighborhood, it's a great option for being active before and after work. They also have after school programs, which serves kids from the Cordova Park Elementary school and provide transportation. Both of these amenities are just across Summit Boulevard. This street has many crosswalks from the Cordova Park neighborhood so your family can safely walk to these fields.
Cordova Park Homes
The homes in Cordova Park are on the larger end for most neighborhoods in Pensacola. Most homes sell for around $200,000 in the neighborhood. However, some renovated homes sell for about $400,000. This means no matter your budget, you can likely find a home in this neighborhood.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Ranch_style_home.png" width="600" height="400" alt="Ranch style home" style="float: left;" />The houses in Cordova Park are built large, elegant and suburban. <a href="https://www.erikhansenteam.com/2017/10/17/cordova-park-home-home-on-the-ranch/">Ninety-nine percent</a> of those homes are ranch-style. Here are <a href="https://www.khov.com/blog/what-is-a-ranch-style-house/">characteristics</a> of what a ranch-style home consists of.
Single story
Open concept floorplan
Rectangular “U” or “L” shaped
Devoted patio or deck space
Large windows & sliding glass doors
Low-pitched roofline with wide eaves
Often includes a finished basement
Often features an attached garage
Simple and/or rustic interior and exterior trim
Living areas separate from the bedroom area
Exteriors of stucco, brick, wood and glass
Aluminum windows (usually replaced), popular in the 1950s and 1960s
The geographical boundaries of Cordova Park begin where the 12th Ave bridge over Bayou Texar ends. All points east/southeast skirting the bayou to Baldwin Ave. The northern boundary is Summit Blvd which meets Firestone Blvd. There are approximately 1,300 homes within this area and are mostly one-story homes.
Ready to Move to Cordova Park?
If you’re thinking about settling down in a small, friendly, quiet neighborhood, Cordova Park is the place for you. Come visit today and see for yourself the wonders it brings!
When you are ready to move to Cordova Park, or any other neighborhood in northwest Pensacola, our team can help. Our real estate agents are experts in the Pensacola neighborhoods. So, let us represent you in your real estate transaction! <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">Contact us</a> today.2021-02-12T10:47:00-07:002021-02-16T10:24:36-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:16535Seville Historic District: Is It Worth Moving To?
The Seville Historic District is one of the neighborhoods that has one of the most extensive history in Florida. Located in South Pensacola, this neighborhood has several gorgeous homes that were built in the 1800s, along with commercial buildings. The historic portion of the district is defined by 29 buildings and museums, but the homes in the area are just as historic. Many people who love historic homes consider moving to the area since there is an abundance of them. In this blog post, we'll cover some of the reasons people choose this neighborhood and if you should move here.
Should You Move to the Seville Historic District?
Most people in the Seville Historic District choose the neighborhood because they love history. But, it's important to note the homes in the Seville Historic District are not considered historical buildings. Although they were built in the 1800s, many have not been identified as historical buildings by the state. However, if you would like to learn the history of your home, you can visit the <a href="https://mywfpl.com/" target="_blank">West Florida Public Library</a> to research it. Other than the charming historical feel of the neighborhood, below are some of the reasons people choose the Seville District.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Pensacola_on_a_map.jpg" width="600" height="400" />
Location
The location of a neighborhood is very important, no matter if it's a historical district or not. Where a neighborhood is changes many factors about how you live and your lifestyle. For example, if the neighborhood is very far away from quality job opportunities, you will have to commute for a longer amount of time. This can decrease the amount of time you spend at home with your family. On the other hand, if your home is in a rural area with nothing around it, you will have a long drive to necessities such as grocery stores or pharmacies.
Thankfully, the Seville Historical District has a great location. It is very close to anything you may need whether it be job opportunities, grocery stores or entertainment. Located just one block east of Palafox Street, this district is very close to downtown Pensacola. In fact, it's a three minute drive or a 20-minute walk from this district. This is where many Pensacolians find themselves commuting each morning. And, since the Seville Historic District is so close to downtown Pensacola, there are many nearby attractions to enjoy.
Nearby Attractions
One of the top reasons people choose to live in the Seville Historic District is because of the local attractions. There are several nearby attractions that both residents from the surrounding areas and tourists visit. The truth is, living in the Seville Historic District means you will always be entertained whenever you have free time. Below are just a few examples of these attractions.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Seville_Square.jpg" width="1000" height="667" />
Seville Square
The <a href="https://www.visitpensacola.com/listing/seville-square/3272/" target="_blank">Seville Square</a> is an attraction where many people find themselves enjoying a morning cup of coffee or a walk with their spouse and dog. Shaded entirely by old, large oak trees, the park is the perfect place to walk in the mornings before it gets too hot outside. The Seville Square is home to numerous weddings and festivals each year. These festivals include the Great Gulf Arts Festival, JazzFest, the Pensacola Seafood Festival and more. So, when you live in this district, you have a very short walk to these fun events.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/TT_Wentworth.jpg" width="1000" height="667" />
T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum
The Seville Historical District includes the <a href="http://www.historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/museums-properties/tt-wentworth-museum/" target="_blank">T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum</a>, which was built in 1907. This meusem covers the history of Pensacola, and Florida itself. Being rich in history because of its access to the Gulf of Mexico and the North Atlantic Ocean, many groups of people found and fought over Florida. The T.T. Wentworth Jr. Florida State Museum covers the most impactful stories of Pensacola, and it's a must-see. From the Seville District homes, this museum is about a 15 minute walk, making it easily accessible.
Pensacola Museum of Art
If you and your family love the arts, you will likely find yourself frequenting the <a href="https://www.pensacolamuseum.org" target="_blank">Pensacola Musuem of Art</a>. This museum also has quite the history itself. This building was a jail from 1908 to 1940 that could hold up to 20 prisoners. But, when it was outgrown as Pensacola got larger, they had to move the jail. Later in 1988, the Pensacola Art Association purchased the building.
Today, the museum is owned by the University of West Florida. They offer a handful exhibits at a time, but they change every few months. With that being said, you can visit this museum every few weeks and have a whole new experience.
Pensacola Children's Museum
Another museum nearby is the Pensacola Children's Museum. If you have children, this museum is an excellent one to visit. Unfortunately, this museum is currently closed due to COVID, but it will hopefully open back up soon. If you move to the neighborhood, you will likely see this museum open back up in the future. This museum normally has fun activities for children like hands-on learning, dress-up clothes, a trainset and a reading area. The museum is the perfect spot to learn about the history of Pensacola, multicultural history, military history and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/downtown_historical_Pensacola.jpg" width="1000" height="667" />
Plaza Ferdinand VII
Just outside the T.T. Wentworth Jr. Museum is the Plaza Ferdinand VII. This plaza was donated to the City of Pensacola by Don Manuel Gonzalez, who received the land from the Spanish throne, according to the <a href="https://www.visitpensacola.com/listing/plaza-ferdinand/2512/" target="_blank">Visit Pensacola</a> website. After this, Andrew Jackson was sworn in as the territorial governor in the plaza in 1821.
In addition to the history that took place on the plaza, there are also very many monuments you can see. From cannons to fountains to monuments, there are so many interesting things to look at. It's safe to say this plaza helps encourage the historical feel of the district.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Palafox_St_Pensacola_Downtown.jpg" width="1000" height="667" />
Palafox Street
As mentioned above, the Seville Historic District is just a block east of Palafox Street. This street is in the heart of downtown Pensacola and is home to many local businesses. People often spend an entire afternoon enjoying these local businesses and walking around the historical buildings. This street has many great restaurants, stores, art exhibits and more.
Palafox Street has a rich history as well, which is often why so many people visit it. The street was first paved in 1892 for streetcars, which is perhaps why the street held many businesses such as a theatre and hotel. For each business or restaurant you visit, their employees or owners can likely explain the history of their business specifically. If you move to the Seville Historic District because you love historical architecture or feeling like you are being taken back in time, you will adore Palafox Street.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in the Seville District is more expensive than surrounding areas of Pensacola. This is because of the high demand of living in the beautiful historical homes. Also, the very close proximity to downtown Pensacola increases the cost, as most people prefer a shorter commute. So, if you would like to live in this district, be prepared to invest a bit more in your home.
The least expensive homes in this neighborhood are condos. These properties are usually under $120,000 to purchase. Single-family homes in the area are often above $750,000. But, do keep in mind, most of these homes were built in the 1800s and each have a unique story. However, you don't have to pay this much to live in the Seville District. A way to save on living in this area is to purchase a vacant lot, and then building a new home on it. While this does remove the historical aspect of the home, it will save you a considerable amount of money.
Who Enjoys the Seville Historic District?
Now that you know the feeling of the Seville Historic District and the local attractions, you may be wondering if you will truly enjoy the area. The truth is, the people who tend to move to this neighborhood are those who love history. If you move to this neighborhood, you will likely live and spend most of your time in buildings that were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Most residents in the area have a deep appreciation for this style of architecture and the history that comes with it. So, if you are in the same boat, you will likely enjoy this area greatly.
On the other hand, if you aren't a big fan of historical homes and buildings, the Seville Historic District may not be the right location for you. People who live in this neighborhood are willing to spend extra on a historical home, and it can feel like a waste if you aren't interested in the home's history. In this case, it would be best to consider a neighborhood such as <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/blog/10-reasons-to-live-in-the-scenic-hills-country-club-estates/" target="_blank">Scenic Hills</a> or University Oaks.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/She_has_keys.png" width="1000" height="667" />
Need Help Finding a Seville Historic District or Pensacola Home?
No matter if you know you want to live in the Seville Historic District or another neighborhood in Pensacola, our team can help you. At the Hansen Team, we assist both buyers and sellers with their real estate transactions. Additionally, we can help you choose the best neighborhood for your budget and lifestyle. So, feel free to <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/" target="_blank">contact us</a> if you are ready to move to Pensacola or sell your home.2021-01-26T08:20:00-07:002020-12-31T22:33:33-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:16508How to Decide on the Best Neighborhood for Your FamilyIt is often difficult and stressful to find the right home for you and your family to move into. You will have to consider the neighborhood that surrounds your new home, and think about how beneficial this new community is for your family. Especially if you are raising young children, you have an added dynamic to factor in when choosing the right home. There are many easy factors to take note of when evaluating your options. And, when you take these factors into consideration, you can feel comfortable with your decision.
The Right Neighborhood Environment
One important thing to remember is that the neighborhood has to fit your needs and not the other way around. For example, if your family prefers a rural area setting, you would fare better choosing a neighborhood in Pace or Gonzalez than you would with an urban downtown Pensacola neighborhood. It is often a matter of preference.
The environment for your family also depends on the set up of your family. You may have just a husband, wife and a single child. In this case, you can choose a smaller home closer to a city. However, you may have a large family consisting of five children and a grandparent being included. If you have a larger family, this will change the square footage you need, and will change how rural your home should be to suit your budget.
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What "Feel" Do You Prefer?
What are the most important features of your ideal neighborhood? If you have trouble answering that question, then you need to retrace your steps. Consider what your family needs and ask the right questions. Write a list of questions that you believe will weigh heavily in your decision-making process. Some of the questions you can ask include “Do you prefer quieter streets or an area with more activity?”, “Do you prefer an older neighborhood or a newer development project?”, “How close should the neighborhood be in proximity to shopping and restaurants?”, and “Is the area safe for our children to play in?”
As you sift through questions like these, think about the needs of all family members. If one family member doesn’t have the ability to function in a neighborhood, then that becomes an issue for the whole family. When choosing the right neighborhood, make sure that all family members are satisfied with what the neighborhood provides.
Your Family's Commute to Work
Your daily commute to work is another important factor. How long will it take you to get to work from your new neighborhood? Will you be going with traffic? Will you be fighting against traffic? Is it easy to navigate the route you take to work? Try the route during rush hour to determine whether or not you can manage it. Don’t get too attached to a house that just looks appealing. The neighborhood you choose has to be convenient for your lifestyle, for the purposes of both work and leisure.
Amenities
Accessibility to amenities is not limited to only grocery stores and restaurants. Are you close to any convenient stores? Are there any bars near your neighborhood? Knowing what your community provides will give you more clarity about the neighborhood you live in. More importantly, are the available amenities kid-friendly? A neighborhood that is good for your family will give you opportunities to get out of the house and go to places that the whole family can enjoy. The local park and playgrounds are good examples of kid-friendly amenities. Take a drive around the new neighborhood and look for any nearby parks. Go through the area and check for signs of other children playing. Bikes, swing sets, trampolines, basketball hoops and slides are indicators of kids in the neighborhood.
Schools For Your Family
An indicator of a good neighborhood is a public school that is well preserved. Depending on your circumstances, the public school setting is probably one of the very first things you consider before moving into a new neighborhood. Keep in mind that if your children are being homeschooled or will go to a private school, this is not an important factor.
If your children attend public school, how large will the school’s classes be? How do its students perform when taking tests? Do most of that school’s students graduate from high school and how many attend college later? You should also factor in the walking distance from your new home to your kids' schools. If the walking distance is too far, then check for bus routes that go through your area and see how long these trips to school take.
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Investigate Crime Rates of the Neighborhood
A neighborhood that is not beneficial for your family is one that has high crime rates. Type in the name of a city and then add “crime statistics by neighborhood” in a search engine. You should be able to get valuable information on the neighborhood you are considering moving to. If you plan on living in a larger urban area you will get more detailed crime reports. On the other hand, smaller towns will have only find general information for their crime reports.
Before you move into any neighborhood, it is wise to conduct a crime report check on it. This will save you from feeling anxious about your family's safety in your neighborhood. You can look up crime in your area by utilizing <a href="https://www.adt.com/crime" target="_blank">interactive crime maps</a>.
Neighborhood Community
A neighborhood may look good in appearance, but what about the people actually living in this neighborhood? Is the community one you would like to live in? Go through the neighborhood during various points of the day and take a thorough look around. Aside from checking on the physical condition of the houses, yards, streets and sidewalks, observe the community and see if it has the style you prefer. If you have children, it is ideal to live in a neighborhood that has at least one other family that has children. On the other hand, if you are a young adult, you may enjoy living in a community with other young adults.
You need to have neighbors who are not only understanding of your situation but are also willing to help. If you live in a neighborhood full of young adults, you may not have chosen a family-friendly neighborhood. So, the community in your neighborhood is highly important.
Rowdy, fun-filled kids can easily test the patience of other people. And you don’t want your neighbors getting frustrated with your children when they are playing outside. If there are other children in the neighborhood, this makes the community feel much more family-friendly. Additionally, it enables your kids to make friends more quickly.
Property Taxes
Whether it is through a real estate agent or city officials, find out what the current tax rate is in your area. How much have property taxes increased in the last five to ten years? Are the annual property taxes for your new home worth the cost? Without factoring property taxes into your moving budget, which includes moving company fees, professional packing and truck rentals, you risk making a significant economic error.
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Home Values
Choosing a new neighborhood takes more than just approving the appearance of its houses. A real estate agent will help you compare the average value of a house five to ten years before you buy it. Has the property increased in value? Has the neighborhood experienced significant changes? Are future developments being planned for this neighborhood? Do keep in mind that home values change between neighborhoods, and you can save money on a home in a specific neighborhood.
Another clue to pick up on to determine if property values are changing is if other external factors are contributing to those changes. Has a new public transportation system been installed? Such systems can change city regulations and other similar conditions. Or, has the crime rate increased in recent years? This can make homes decrease in value significantly.
Conclusion
It can be a real challenge finding the best neighborhood for you and your family, but if you take the right steps you will be better prepared for any issues that may arise. Keep in mind that no matter where you search you will never find the perfect neighborhood. However, by doing your homework beforehand, you will find a neighborhood that will make the whole family happy. The entire process of searching for a new neighborhood will become more enjoyable if you know what you are looking for. 2021-01-12T10:29:00-07:002020-12-31T22:14:29-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:16267When is the Best Time of Year to Move?For most people, moving at some point or another is inevitable. Whether it be to move into a larger home to make space for growing your family, or to a whole new state for a job opportunity, most people make at least one move in their adult life. Moving into a new home, apartment or townhouse is a very exciting time. However, moving can be a very expensive process, especially if you are moving to a new state. Thankfully, there are a few ways to save money on moving. One of these being the time of year you move. In this blog post, we will discuss the best time of year to move for saving money, as well as some other money-saving tips.
When is the Best Time of Year to Move?
With moving, the cost goes up when demand is higher because moving is often seasonal. Households tend to make their moves during the same season, which is surprising. Despite any job trends or housing rates, people still move during the season time year after year– summer.
Summer
According to Apartments.com, <a href="https://www.apartments.com/blog/when-is-the-best-time-to-move" target="_blank">60% of the 40 million Americans</a> who move each year choose the summer to relocate. Most people choose to move in the summer because schedules are usually less busy. Kids are out of school, and many of their activities are postponed until the fall. Additionally, demand for homes is often higher in the summer, which means you can get a better deal when selling your home.
However, with a large majority people moving in the summer, moving companies increase their rates. Moving companies charge up to <a href="https://www.movebuddha.com/blog/best-time-to-move/" target="_blank">30% more</a> in the summer than they do in other seasons. Additionally, moving materials can also increase in price. So, this can counteract the deal you get for selling your home in the summer.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Hot_in_the_summer.png" width="1000" height="667" alt="Hot in the summer" />
Another downside of moving in the summer, other than costs, is the heat. The temperatures vary based on what state you are moving to and from, but summer temperatures can be brutal anywhere. In Florida specifically, which is where our team serves, moving in the summer can feel torturous. When it's 102 degrees, carrying boxes from a moving truck is the last thing you want to do. So, moving in the summer isn't the best financially or for comfortability.
Fall
In the fall, the weather is optimal for moving heavy boxes, as it's not too hot and it's not too cool. Additionally, it's a good time to move into a home, as many people buy homes in the summer. So, if you are able to push back your move-in date, fall is the best. Financially, fall is a great option as well, because this is when moving companies tend to start lowering their rates. But, keep in mind kids are in school during the fall, so it can be hard for them to move to a new school.
Winter
The best time to move, just like with most things, is when no one else is doing it. This is when demand is low, so moving companies will lower their prices to compete with other companies. Most years, the demand for moving companies drops in the winter. The winter season is often the last choice for households because kids are in school and the holidays are around the corner. But, for those who want to save money on moving, this is the best time of year financially.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Happy_Movers.png" width="1000" height="667" alt="Moving during the Christmas season" />
The downside of moving in the winter is, yet again, the weather. In many areas of the country, the winter can be just as brutal as the summer. But, if you are moving to a state in the South, such as Florida or Texas, the winter season will have minimal impact on you. When it comes to moving to or from a state in the North, you have to be careful about snow and ice with moving trucks.
Spring
Spring, just like fall, has great weather and rates on moving. But, what sets spring apart from the other seasons is it will likely be when it's best for you to sell. As mentioned above, most people move in the summer, so this means they sell their homes in the spring. With that being said, spring is often the time people choose to sell. But, similarly to fall again, kids are in school during the spring (other than Spring Break), so this is something to keep in mind.
Other Ways to Save Money on Moving
Other than choosing the best time of year to move, there are many ways to save money on your move. This way, if you don't have a choice of when to move, you can still save money. Or, if you want to save even more on your move, you can use the methods below.
Move During the Workweek
In addition to choosing the best time of year to move, the day of the week can save you money as well. When you hire movers, they change their prices based on demand, as mentioned above. And, because people tend to move when they are off work on the weekend, the workweek usually comes with less expensive mover rates. This can be difficult as you will have to take off work to do the moving, but the money you save may be worth it.
Reuse Moving Boxes
One of the best ways to save money on moving is by reusing moving boxes. During this day in age, many people make online shopping orders that come in large boxes. When you have a move coming up, be sure to save these boxes for your move. Even if you have several small boxes, this can be helpful for moving smaller items like silverware or drawer contents. Reusing these moving boxes can save you a great deal of money, as the cost of moving boxes can add up.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/moving_company2.png" width="1000" height="667" alt="People loading up a moving truck" />
If you don't do any online shopping, you can also take moving boxes off other people's hands. Some people post their moving boxes for sale on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist to give to other people. Usually, they will cut the cost of the boxes in half, or even offer the boxes for free. Additionally, reusing moving boxes is a great way to give the materials another life, rather than throwing them away.
Only Move Items You Love
Everyone has a piece of furniture they don't love or a "junk drawer" filled with items they don't need. When moving, it's best to get rid of these items you don't use or enjoy. This can save you money on boxes and on paying movers if they charge you by weight or number of boxes. Not to mention, your new home will only have items you truly love.
Ask the Movers to Only Move Furniture
If you would like to hire movers to save you time and effort, but still want to save money, consider asking them to only move furniture. Smaller boxes tend to be the easiest part of moving, as you can pack them in the trunk of your car easily. But, when it comes to moving furniture, it is much more complicated. Thankfully, for most moving companies, you are only charged by weight. So, asking movers to only move furniture can save you a significant amount of money.
Do the Moving Yourself!
If someone in your family owns a truck, it may be best to do the moving yourself. Trucks can pile furniture in the bed of the truck, and they can pull trailers. Companies like U-Haul allow you to rent large trailers that hold plenty of furniture. When you want to save the most amount of money on moving, no matter the time of year, doing it yourself is best. It may be more effort on your part, but it will save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Blog_Images/Move_yourself.png" width="1000" height="667" alt="Loading moving boxes into a vehicle" />
Moving to Pensacola?
Wherever you move, our team wishes you the best of luck! If you are moving to the Pensacola, Florida area, we would be happy to assist you in finding a new home here. Our experts can advise you on the best areas, as well as give you more tips on saving money when buying a new home. Feel free to <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact us through our website</a> or call us at (850) 377-2201.2020-12-18T13:30:00-07:002020-12-05T20:18:35-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:16263Emanuel Point: Is It Worth Considering?Pensacola, Florida is home to many unique neighborhoods. The homes in the area are some of the most sought after in the nation. This is due to the beautiful white sand beaches, good economy and friendly culture. Thanks to this demand, many people have invested in local neighborhoods to improve older homes. One of the local neighborhoods that has seen major improvements recently is Emanuel Point, and the homes in that area.
It's no secret Pensacola is home to many historical neighborhoods. Spanish settlers came to Pensacola in the 15th century, which was the start of the housing development. After that, there was an economic boom thanks to the Port of Pensacola during the 1800s. The long-running history of Pensacola is the reason there are so many historical homes. Depending on the owners of the historical homes, these homes are either kept up well, or they get torn down and replaced by modern structures. Emanuel Point is an area with both options, so it's sure to match the preferences of many potential home-buyers.
Where is Emanuel Point?
Emanuel Point is in the very southern region of East Pensacola. It's on the East side of Bayou Texar, which is fed by the Pensacola Bay. Emanuel Point is the name of the peninsula, a piece of land that ends in a "point." This peninsula is surrounded by both historic and brand new homes. Many of the homes are along this point of land, which means they look out to Pensacola Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Some of these homes are also along a historic railroad track, which still has two active trains.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/House_overlooking_water.png" width="562" height="408" alt="House by train track" style="float: left;" />Emanuel Point is about two minutes away from East Hill, arguably the most sought after historical neighborhood in Pensacola. So, many of the homes in Emanuel Point have a similar historical feel. The majority of these homes are very well kept, as the owners have preserved the historical bones of their structures.
Price Points For the Area
When it comes to pricing for homes in the Emanuel Point area, you have many options. For the historical homes that are well-kept and updated, you can expect a price point above $1,000,000. On the other hand, for homes built in recent years, you can pay anywhere from $700,000 to $2,000,000 depending on the size and features. It's also important to note that lot sizes vary in this area, and not all homes are waterfront. So, the prices do vary from property to property.
Another option for those wanting to live in the Emanuel Point area is to renovate a home. As mentioned above, there are many historical homes in the area, but not all have been taken care of properly. So, there are some homes built in the early 1900s that cost as little as $240,000. If you would like to own a historical home, renovating one is a great way to save some money. Or, you can buy a home and build a brand new, modern home on the property. Either way, you are able to get a beautiful house in a very unique neighborhood.
Local Attractions
The homes in the Emanuel Point area have many local attractions the neighborhood gets to enjoy. In fact, one of the biggest reasons people move to the Pensacola area is because of the great attractions nearby. Perhaps the largest attraction is the beach. Other than this major selling point, below are some of the attractions Emanuel Point residents enjoy.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Sunset.png" width="559" height="419" alt="Waterfront property" style="float: right;" />
Food Options
Emanuel Point has several local food options that residents can walk or bike to. Many restaurants and bars along the highway are converted homes that were once residential. So, they offer a special type of charm and neighbor the homes in the area. One of these places is <a href="https://www.jerrysdrivein.com/" target="_blank">Jerry's Drive-In</a>. Despite its name, Jerry's is a dine-in spot where you go in to enjoy an American-style dish. This joint serves burgers, chicken tenders and seafood. So, it's perfect for those nights where you just don't feel like cooking.
Another local spot Emanuel Point residents can walk to is the <a href="https://newyorkerdeliandpizzeria.com/" target="_blank">New Yorker Deli & Pizzeria</a>. This place has just about anything you could want out of a hearty and flavorful meal. They, of course, serve sandwiches and pizzas, but they also serve pasta dishes, calzones, salads and even cheesecake. It's a great spot to go with your family, and then walk it off on your way home.
Scenic Highway 90
Florida is home to many scenic highways, such as 30A, which stretches from Miramar Beach, through Seaside, to Rosemary Beach. But, Emanuel Point is home to another beautiful road, Scenic Highway 90. This road is fairly long, running through downtown Pensacola. But, it doesn't become a "Scenic Highway" until it reaches Emanuel Point. When driving along the highway, you get to see the beautiful Pensacola Bay and Escambia Bay. It eventually ends when it merges with Highway 90, just outside of Pace, Florida.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Bridge_Image.png" width="562" height="375" alt="Escambia Bay Bridge" style="float: left;" />
Schools
Just across Scenic Highway 90, is the elementary school where the younger Emanuel Point residents attend. The A.K. Suter Elementary School is one of the nicest schools in the area, as it was recently remodeled. Not to mention, it's a very easy walk or drive from Emanuel Point. There are crosswalks across Scenic Highway 90, which makes it safe for parents to walk their kids to school. If you prefer to drop your kids off at school, it's just one minute out of your way.
In addition to the elementary school, the middle school and high school are just a 15-minute drive away. So, when it comes to being a kid-friendly neighborhood, Emanuel Point passes the test.
Downtown Pensacola
One of the greatest reasons to live in Emanuel Point is the easy access to downtown Pensacola. In less than 10 minutes, you can get downtown from a home in Emanuel Point. This means you have easy access to work opportunities, more restaurants and museums. Emanuel Point is an excellent location for residents who need to commute downtown every day for work.
Want to Move to the Emanuel Point Area?
If you are debating moving to the peninsula in Southeast Pensacola, we hope this blog post helped. Although the area is on the more expensive side, you do have options to renovate homes in the neighborhood. Not to mention, you just can't beat the view of the Gulf of Mexico in your backyard.
If you need a local Pensacola real estate agent, call our team! We can help you find the perfect home in your price range. Fill out our form on our <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">Contact Page</a> or call us at (850) 377-2201. We can't wait to help you!2020-12-11T12:16:00-07:002020-12-05T18:07:16-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:1585310 Reasons to Live in the Scenic Hills Country Club EstatesPensacola, Florida is home to many beautiful neighborhoods. Some feel as though you are in a dense forest, while others feel like beachfront paradise. On the other hand, some neighborhoods feel like high-end vacation homes. No matter what type of neighborhood you prefer, Pensacola has a place for you. One neighborhood in particular that feels like a vacation all year round is the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates. This neighborhood is highly sought after because of its beautiful community. In this blog post, we are going to cover 10 reasons why people choose this neighborhood for their new homes.
Where is the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates Neighborhood?
The Scenic Hills Estates Neighborhood is in the very northern region of Pensacola. It’s just a few miles away from the Escambia River and the Escambia Bay. To visit downtown Pensacola, homeowners have just a 20-minute drive. Surprisingly to some, this neighborhood is actually closer to Pace than Pensacola, with just a 13-minute drive to the neighboring city.
Scenic Hills Estates has a very central location, which is why so many choose to live in this neighborhood. Around the neighborhood are many weekend activities to enjoy, as well as tourist destinations that are just minutes away. You will never get bored of the Scenic Hills Estates, as there’s always something to do just miles away.
Scenic Hills vs. Scenic Hills Country Club Estates
There are two neighborhoods in Pensacola with very similar names – Scenic Hills and Scenic Hills Country Club Estates. Scenic Hills is a very small neighborhood in northeast Pensacola. This neighborhood has just two streets of homes and is off of Creighton Road. This neighborhood is separated from Escambia Bay by just the Scenic Highway, which means it’s very close to the ocean.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/m5.png" width="555" height="313" alt="Scenic Hills Neighborhood" style="float: right;" />
Scenic Hills is a neighborhood with homes that sell for as little as $90,000 at times. On the higher end in this neighborhood, you can find newly built homes for $190,000. If you are looking for a less expensive neighborhood in Pensacola, this is a great option for you.
The Scenic Hills Country Club Estates is a much higher-end neighborhood than Scenic Hills. Most homes in this neighborhood sell for well above $300,000. Some homes may also be sold at a price point above $400,000 if they are newly renovated or are larger. The Scenic Hills Country Club Estates is also maintained by an HOA, which makes the neighborhood feel more organized and well-kept. This neighborhood is a great option if you are looking for a forever home in a beautiful community.
Why Live in the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates?
The community members of the Scenic Hills Estates community will tell you there are dozens of reasons they chose the neighborhood for their home. Homes in the area rarely go up for sale, as the neighbors love their community and choose to stay long-term. So, it’s safe to say that if this is the type of neighborhood you are interested in, it’s an excellent choice. Below, you will see 10 of the top reasons to live in the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates.
The $3.5 Million Clubhouse
One of the best reasons to move to this beautiful neighborhood is the $3.5 million clubhouse. The clubhouse overlooks the beautiful golf course in the neighborhood, and is a popular venue for events. Many people have their charity events, weddings, dances, business meetings and many other events in the clubhouse. This clubhouse and its course even hosted the 1969 USGA Women’s Open. Overall, it’s a beautiful building to drive past each time you come home from work.
The clubhouse is also the perfect place to have a family lunch on the weekends. Every family a go-to spot where they enjoy meals with their loved ones. So, the clubhouse can be your new spot! They serve brunch every Sunday, as well as have a happy hour every day. When you live in the Scenic Hills Estates community, you can enjoy a quick drive or walk to the clubhouse, and can enjoy the fantastic amenities each week.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/m4.png" width="544" height="363" alt="Clubhouse Food" style="float: left;" />
If you decide to move to the Scenic Hills Estates community, we recommend getting a membership with the clubhouse. This membership gives you a major discount on golfing, golf carts, events and their facilities. You also get a 10% discount on all food purchases and golf shop purchases. It can save you a lot of money if you plan to stop by often.
<br />Close to Essential Businesses
As mentioned above, the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates has a great location. This neighborhood is incredibly close to anything you may need. You have easy access to both Pace and Pensacola, providing you many close job options. This is clearly a very important aspect if you are picking up your life and are moving to Pensacola. Additionally, there are many close food options near the neighborhood. Examples of close food options are Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, <a href="http://groversfingers.com/">Grover’s Finger & Wings</a> and <a href="https://rocknrollsushi.com/">Rock n Roll Sushi</a>. Between the clubhouse’s food options and these great restaurants nearby, you will never go hungry!
In addition to its proximity to everyday essentials, the neighborhood is also close to essential places you will need a few times per year. For example, it is just 23 minutes away from the <a href="http://www.flypensacola.com/">Pensacola International Airport</a>. It’s close to many hospitals and doctor’s offices, such as the <a href="http://westfloridahospital.com/?utm_campaign=corp_listings_mgmt&utm_source=google&utm_medium=business_listing">West Florida Hospital</a>. The community is also near many banks, movie theaters, Sam’s Club, and many other places you will likely find yourself at a few times each year.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/m3.png" width="540" height="360" alt="Pensacola Grocery Store" style="float: right;" />
HOA Managed Community
Many people prefer to live in an HOA managed community because of the many benefits. An HOA board ensures your neighborhood continues looking great, and maintain the property values of the homes. So, this is a great reason to move to the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates. This community is managed by the Scenic Hills Country Club Villas HOA where they make sure the homes in the neighborhood stay uniform and the grounds are well-kept. Thanks to the great work of this HOA board, the median price of the homes in this community increases significantly each year. This brings us to our next reason to move to this neighborhood.
Median Price Increases Each Year
According to <a href="https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-search/Scenic-Hills-Country-Club-Estates_Pensacola_FL/overview">Realtor.com</a>, the value of homes in this neighborhood increase by 19% year-over-year. With that being said, when you purchase a home in this neighborhood, you can expect it to be a great investment. According to statistics, you can expect your home’s value to increase quickly over the years, which is usually the goal for homeowners. The area is most likely going to continue raising in value over the next few decades. So, homeowners are excited about the profitability of their homes when it comes time to sell.
Great Schools
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/m6.png" width="546" height="316" alt="Pensacola Schools" style="float: left;" />The Scenic Hills Country Club Estates community is zoned to some of the best schools in the area. Their neighborhood kids go to some of the best schools in the Escambia County Scool District. They go to R.C. Lipscomb Elementary School, which gets four out of five stars from parents according to Realtor.com. The middle school the neighborhood’s children go to is Ransom Middle School, which also gets four out of five stars from parents. They eventually go to Tate High School, which gets a lower rating by parents at three out of five stars.
If you would like your kids to go to schools with even better ratings, there are many private schools nearby the neighborhood. The closest is the <a href="http://www.trinitaschristian.org/">Trinitas Christian School</a>, which is a highly rated private school that serves kids from kindergarten to 12th grade. This school is around 10 minutes away from the neighborhood, which is just as close as the public schools. There are many other private schools in Pensacola that have great ratings if you prefer your kids to not attend public school.
A Golfer’s Paradise
Considering the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates is right off a <a href="https://www.scenichills.com/web/pages/course-map">golf course</a>, it attracts many golfers. The course is the only course in Florida to host a U.S. Open, which is a big achievement! It’s the perfect spot for a Saturday afternoon of golf, and it’s just a minute away from the homes in the neighborhood. The course has 18 holes, so you can spend an entire day on the course if you wish.
When you are done golfing, you can finish up the day and get dinner with your fellow golfers in the clubhouse. Or, you can make a stop at the golf shop to purchase a new hat or golf shirt. This neighborhood is truly a golfer’s paradise. And, if you are moving to Pensacola, the golf course is a great spot to make new friends who share common interests. You can see pictures of each hole on the course on their <a href="https://www.scenichills.com/web/pages/course-map">website</a>.
Tucked Away Feeling
The neighborhood is tucked away in the outksirts of Pensacola. As mentioned above, this neighborhood does have a great, central location. However, as soon as you turn on the long roads that bring you to the neighborhoods, you will feel as though you are tucked away. In the neighborhoods, there are many areas filled with woods and rivers. When you are in this neighborhood, you will find it hard to believe you are just 20 minutes away from a large city.
If you would like to live in a peaceful neighborhood, this is a great option. When you live here, you still have access to the many businesses and job opportunities as you would in a city. Not to mention, you are less than half an hour from the beach, which is always an added bonus.
Close to Bike Trails and Hiking<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/m2.png" width="540" height="360" alt="Pensacola Bike Trails" style="float: right;" />
When most people think of Pensacola, Florida and its suburbs, they usually don’t think of hiking. The truth is, Pensacola and the surrounding areas of West Florida have many great state and national parks. So, there are several excellent bike and hiking trails in the area. And, if you like to hike in your free time, you will be happy to hear there are trails right by Scenic Hills Estates. The <a href="http://uwf-bike-trails.edan.io/">UWF bike trails</a> back up to the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates and are just a five minute drive away. These trails are perfect for biking, hiking and jogging for anyone who loves to be in nature.
Minutes From the Most Popular Tourist Destinations in America
As mentioned above, the Scenic Hills Estates neighborhood is less than half an hour away from the beach. The Pensacola beaches are some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. And, if you want to go to less crowded beaches, you are a little over an hour away. Some great spots are Perdidio Key, Miramar Beach and Rosemary Beach. When you live near all these white sand beaches, you have the ability to visit them whenever you want!
Job Opportunities
If you are looking to move to the Pensacola area for your forever home, you may be wondering about job opportunities. The great news is Pensacola is home to many booming businesses across all industries. In particular, if you have experience in the tourism and hospitality industry, you should have no problem finding a job. With Scenic Hills Country Club Estates’ central location to both Pensacola and Pace, you have many job opportunities close by. Not to mention, the University of West Florida is just nine minutes away from the neighborhood. So, if you have been considering becoming a professor, this is another great option to look into. In conclusion, finding a job will likely come easily if you move to the Pensacola area.
Ready to Move to the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates?
If you are ready to move to the Scenic Hills Country Club Estates area after reading the reasons above, feel free to <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact our team</a>. We are experts in selling homes in Pensacola, and would gladly help you find a home in the Scenic Hills Estates neighborhood. Our team will answer any questions you have about the area and will find the perfect home for you. To look at our available listings in the Scenic Hills Country Club neighborhood, <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/scenic-hills-of-pensacola/">view our listings page</a>.2020-11-20T13:51:00-07:002020-11-02T15:33:27-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:15849Moving Soon? 10 Ways to Save MoneyMoving can be a hectic time. It’s easy to dismiss all the costs that accumulate as you prepare for your exciting new chapter in life. Small, frequent purchases for items boxes, packaging, eating out and moving services can add up to surprising amounts.
Fortunately, moving doesn’t have to be expensive! By relying on some frugal tactics and resources you already have at home, you can save a ton of money before you move!
Before you buy or pack anything you think you need, check out our 10 hacks to save money before you move! To make this your most budget-friendly move ever, start following this plan about a month before your actual move-out date.
1. Move With Less
When moving, less is more. The less stuff you have, the less you have to pack. The less you have to pack, the less space you have to rent for storage or transportation. (Or the less you have, the less time you have to pay for someone else to pack!)
Before you decide what to pack, go through everything you own. If you haven’t used an item in a year or more, get rid of it. Here are several ways you can get rid of your stuff while helping yourself:
Have a Garage Sale
Everyone loves a good garage sale. People love bargain hunting, and you’ll love getting extra cash for your old stuff. Garage sales are a lot of fun and bring in a lot of cash if you plan them right.To plan a fantastic garage sale, make sure you:
Sell on the Weekend
You’ll get more customers if you have your garage sale on the weekend mornings and early afternoons. Attract families and avid garage salers by scheduling your sale on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday between 7AM - 1PM. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/Moving_1.png" width="532" height="355" alt="How to Save on Moving" title="How to Save on Moving" style="float: left;" />
If you plan to do a sale that spans multiple days, reduce the price of anything leftover from the previous day.
Advertise
Announce your upcoming garage sale earlier in the week. Post your advertisements on local online buy and sell groups. Don’t forget to post signs around your neighborhood and local shopping areas.
Clean Up and Polish
Customers are more inclined to buy things that are pretty and shiny. To encourage more interest in the items you’re selling, give everything a quick wipe, wash, or brush to make them look a little nicer.
Be Prepared
To make your setup and take down as easy as possible, get everything ready the night before. This means having like items organized in groups and price tags on everything.
Have Coffee and Donuts
Coffee and donuts are garage sale miracle workers. They’ll give you a warm and sweet pick-me-up for the busy day ahead, and they entice your visitors to linger. What’s more, visitors who accept your free coffee and donuts will feel more inclined to buy something from you.
Garage Sale Pro-Tip
Garage salers love to negotiate. Expect your visitors to ask you for a lower price on everything. To give your customer and yourself a deal you both like, list it at a price you're comfortable cutting in half. For example, if you want to sell a clock for five dollars, list it for $10. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/2_1.png" width="496" height="331" alt="Movers Helping Save on Moving" style="float: right;" />
List Unique and Unsold Items
List unique items online in addition to showcasing unique items at your garage sale. This will help double your exposure for items that may be hard to sell or interesting to niche groups.
You should also list unsold items from your garage sale online. Follow the garage sale pro-tip of pricing these items at a number you can cut in half. Reduce their prices for every day they do not sell for up to one week.
Donate Unsold Items
If after one week you do not sell the leftover items from your garage sale online, donate them to your local second-hand store. You can feel good knowing you’re giving these items a second life and preventing them from going to the landfill.
Plus, donations are tax deductible! Don’t forget to ask for a donation receipt after you drop off your items! Record your items and their value immediately so you don’t have to worry about it later.
Don’t Buy Anything for Your New Place
Don’t buy anything for your new place before you move! This counteracts all the hard work you did during your garage saling, listing and donating!
You won’t know what items you’ll need at your new place until you get there. When you do move, you can always grab small quantities of essentials from your local Dollar Tree or second-hand store to hold you over until you can assess what you need to buy.
2. Get Free Moving Supplies
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/3_1.png" width="518" height="377" alt="Family Saving on Moving" style="float: left;" />Don’t spend the money you earned from your garage sale yet! You’ll be surprised by how much you can save on moving supplies if you take some time to look and ask around.
Check Local Free Groups
Never pay for what you can get for free! Check your local <a href="https://www.craigslist.org/about/sites">Craigslist</a>, <a href="https://www.freecycle.org/">Freecycle,</a> or <a href="https://buynothingproject.org/">Buy Nothing</a> group for free moving supplies. Chances are there is somewhere nearby who recently moved or had a garage sale and wants to offload their stuff as soon as possible! <br /><br />Use these groups to acquire free boxes, tape, bubble wrap, blankets, plastic bags, newspapers and anything else you need for packing!
If you can’t find any posts offering these items for free, make a post asking about them! There’s always someone who needs to get rid of something.
Check Local Stores
Your local grocery and liquor stores are great places to get boxes for free. Grocery stores are a great place to find boxes of varying sizes. Liquor stores are a great resource for strong, sturdy boxes.
3. Buy in Bulk
If you’ve exhausted your free resources and still come up short on moving materials, consider buying your items in bulk. When it comes to packing, you always go through more material than you think you need!
When buying in bulk, you’ll pay a lesser overall unit price and can save your purchased items for future use.The items that are most economical to buy in bulk are packaging materials like tape and bubble wrap.
4. Do It Yourself <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/4.png" width="516" height="344" alt="Family Moving" style="float: right;" />
You are more capable than you think! To save money on inflated moving service fees, do as much as you can yourself before hiring help. You’ll give yourself a good workout and sense of empowerment while saving tons of money.
There are lots of moving tasks you can accomplish in your spare time. Here are a few ideas of things you can do yourself to lower your overall moving costs:
Pack Everything Yourself
You won’t have that much to worry about after your garage sale and donations, so pack as much as you can yourself. Pack your belongings using the free boxes, tape and packaging material you gathered. If you’re running low on packaging material, use items you already have on hand, like blankets, sheets and towels.
Rent a Car or Truck
You can significantly reduce the cost of transporting your belongings from point A to point B yourself. Use a rental service like Uhaul or Enterprise and drive your belongings to your new place!
Ship Heavy Items
Don’t transport heavy boxes in your rental vehicle if you don’t have to. Save yourself some precious space in your rental truck and ship your heavy items with <a href="https://www.usps.com/ship/priority-mail.htm">USPS Priority Mail</a> for a flat rate.
Use a Moving Container
If you’re pressed for time or energy and can’t transport your items yourself, consider using a movable storage service, like <a href="https://www.pods.com/">Pods</a> or <a href="https://www.uhaul.com/UBox/">Uhaul’s U-Box</a>. With these services, you get the convenient combination of do-it-yourself packing with hands-free transportation.
5. Ask For Help
After you’ve done all you can on your own, it’s time to ask your family, friends and neighbors for help. Aside from saving money, asking for help will give you a chance to spend time with loved ones before you transition to your new location.
Here are two ways you can ask the people in your social circles to help out:
Have a Moving Party
Invite your helpers over to help you pack your things into boxes and load up your rental truck or movable storage box. Make things easy on them by having everything ready; organize your items into groups so everything can be packed quickly and easily. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/7.png" width="528" height="352" alt="Office with boxes" style="float: left;" />
While most of these people will be happy to help you for free, make sure you show your gratitude by supplying them with simple gifts like pizza and drinks.
Stay with Family and Friends
If you're travelling a long distance, consider boarding with family and friends along your route. This is a huge way you can save on hotel and restaurant fees, and you’ll get quality time to connect with people you do not usually see. An added bonus of staying with family and friends is they often send you on your way with helpful items like food or personal care items.
6. Get Bids for Moving Services
If you find yourself in need of professional movers even after all your do-it-yourself and moving party work, get service quotes and reviews before hiring anyone. You can save an immense amount of money by taking the time to find a reputable moving company. Here are two actions you should take before working with any moving company:
Get an Itemized Bid
Gather quotes from several local businesses. Each bid you receive should have a job total broken down in terms of labor, materials and fees. Make sure the quotes you receive have all expected charges and fees on their bid. Be sure to inquire about any charges you don’t understand and get their answers documented in writing.
Check Their Reputation
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/8.png" width="544" height="363" alt="People moving boxes" style="float: right;" />Review the company’s business reputation on their Facebook, Yelp and Google business pages to get a collective idea of the company’s reputation. You want to work with a company that is responsive to their customer’s needs and leaves their customers satisfied.
7. Negotiate Everything
Don’t forget to haggle! If you work with a contractor or small business, you can negotiate the price of many of your moving-related services. You can use the bids you received from other companies to help leverage your ideal service prices. When negotiating, remember to be polite and reasonable.
8. Use What You Already Have
You can save a lot of money by using the resources you already have before you move. To avoid re-buying consumable items like food, shampoo and paper towels during and after your move, use what you already have.
Eat the Food You Have
One of the best parts about moving is trying out the restaurants in your new area. To avoid the double impact of eating out before and after you move, focus on eating what you already have at home before your move-out date. You’ll spare your eating out budget while preventing good food from being thrown out.
Pack Food for Your Trip
If you’re traveling long distances, save yourself from sneaky costs of on-the-road food by packing snacks, meals and drinks for yourself. Keep a cooler with all your food within easy reach.
In addition to packing meals and snacks, don’t forget to pack non-perishable foods you still have. Non-perishables like flour, rice and spices may not be expensive individually, but buying them new altogether, their prices quickly add up! Even if these items are already open, don’t throw them out! Seal them up tightly in plastic bags and bring them with you.
Food and Money-Saving Pro-Tip
You’ll likely be super hungry when you get to your new place. Pack some meals and snacks for when you first arrive so you don’t make the hunger-related mistake of overindulging at a restaurant.
Pack Essentials
Don’t throw away or leave behind household items like toilet paper, paper towels, sandwich bags, lightbulbs, batteries, or cleaning supplies! Just because you won’t need them during your move doesn’t mean you won’t need them at your new place! Even if they’ve already been opened, save yourself the hassle of rebuying these things new and bring them with you.
Keep Personal Care Supplies Nearby
Prepare a small, homemade bag of personal care items for your travels instead of buying travel-sized items and bring your non-empty products with you. You’ll save on the high-costs of travel-sized goods as well as avoid throwing away usable products.
9. Use Seasonal and Promotional Deals
Prices related to moving supplies and services are subject to change based on the season and time of week. Moving-related prices peak during summer and on the weekends. <img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/5.png" width="526" height="351" alt="Girl planning moving" style="float: left;" /><br /><br />To plan for the best deals, try and schedule your move during the weekdays outside of summer time. If you have to move during summer, aim for the very beginning or end of the season. Also, look around for deals. Many businesses will offer promotions and lower prices during off-peak moving times.
You can also check <a href="https://www.groupon.com/">Groupon</a> for promotions and coupons for storage, transportation, packing, and rental services in your area!
10. Ask About Company Reimbursements
If you are moving for a new job, ask your employer about relocation reimbursements. In addition to reimbursing moving costs associated with food and travel, many employers offer a stipend for moving-related expenses.
Be a Moving Money-Saving Master!
While there are many ways to spend money during a move, there are also many ways to save. We hope this article helps you feel empowered by all the opportunities you can generate and save money during moving. Are you ready to move to the Pensacola, Florida area? <a href="https://jjlyonsmarketing.com/contact/">Contact us</a> and let us know!
Happy moving!2020-11-06T13:34:00-07:002020-11-02T13:50:31-07:00Erik Hansentag:hansenteampensacola.com,2012-09-20:15345Must-Sees in Downtown PensacolaIt’s no secret Pensacola, Florida is a common tourist destination for people in the United States. Northwest Florida is home to beautiful, white-sand beaches you can’t find anywhere else in the country. So, people travel across the country to visit the beaches. Many people even move here to embrace the Southern beach culture and lifestyle. But, did you know the beaches aren’t the only great thing about the area? Downtown Pensacola also has some amazing, must-see attractions. In this blog post, we introduce you to some of these attractions that make both locals and tourists love our city.
A Very Brief Overview
Our city has put in a lot of work to make downtown Pensacola safe and fun. The town has its own improvement board who focuses on the experience of visitors through regular meetings. This board is responsible for making the area charming and pleasant to visit. Many of the board members are business owners who have a deep appreciation for the area. So, you can trust you will enjoy visiting downtown Pensacola, and you will want to spend many afternoons here.
Must-Sees in Downtown Pensacola
The feel of downtown Pensacola is often a primary reason people want to move to the area. Sure, the beach is fun, but it won’t be the only thing you want to do when you live in Pensacola permanently. Our fun downtown is what seals the deal for people wanting to relocate to somewhere special. When planning your visiting to downtown Pensacola, consider going to the following places.
Pensacola Museum of Art
Downtown Pensacola has a beautiful art museum with a great collection. Funded by the University of West Florida, the <a href="https://www.pensacolamuseum.org/">Pensacola Museum of Art</a> has pieces from the nineteenth through the twenty-first centuries. They have a permanent collection featuring contemporary art which you won’t be able to find anywhere else. It’s a great place to visit with your kids, as they have children’s classes and camps. They also have adult art workshops, which make for a great date night activity after getting a nearby dinner. No matter if you are just visiting Pensacola or are a long-time local, consider visiting the Pensacola Museum of Art.
Palafox Market<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/shutterstock_1702137859.png" width="527" height="421" alt="Downtown Pensacola" title="Downtown Pensacola" style="float: right;" />
<a href="http://palafoxmarket.com/">Palafox Market</a> is a busy farmer’s market in the heart of downtown Pensacola. Every Saturday, local farmers bring their fresh produce to Palafox Street and sell it to customers. There are several farmers who come to the market, all of whom have a different selection of items. Some have baked goods, canned goods, and even pickled produce. One of the best items you can find at the Palafox Market is local honey, which can be difficult to find at grocery stores. Consider stopping by and supporting your local farmers by shopping their high-quality produce. And produce isn't the only thing sold at the Palafox Market. It's not uncommon to find dog bandanas, candels, or a wide assortment of other handcrafted items for sale. You never know, shopping at Palafox Market may become one of your regular Saturday morning activities!
Historic Pensacola Village
A major attraction in downtown Pensacola is the <a href="http://www.historicpensacola.org/education-research/living-history/">Historic Pensacola Village.</a> This is a neighborhood in downtown Pensacola that depicts the 19th century, back when Pensacola was inhabited by Spaniards. A good way to describe the neighborhood is as a live-action Spanish colony. Here, you will see employees reenacting what a day in the life of Spanish settlers looked like. From open hearth cooking, candle making, doing laundry, and gardening, you will get a great lesson of how people used to live in the downtown Penacola area. They also change the village every season so it’s more realistic and accurate. Visiting Historical Pensacola Village is a great history lesson for kids especially, as they can learn as they are watching.
Bubba’s Sweet Spot
There’s nothing like getting some homemade fudge and ice cream after a long day of laying on the beach! If you ask people about places to get ice cream in Pensacola, they will likely recommend <a href="https://www.bubbasweetspot.com/">Bubba’s Sweet Spot</a>. This delightful ice cream shop is well known for their unique ice cream flavors and homemade treats. Although it’s relatively new compared to many of the other businesses in downtown Pensacola, it has already become a favorite for both tourists and locals. You can’t miss this place if you’re in downtown Pensacola!
One characteristic of this local favorite is that it's owned by Bubba Watson, the famous golfer who has won the Masters Tournament multiple times. This makes Bubba Sweet Spot a must-see for any golfing enthusiasts.
Pensacola Blue Wahoos<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/shutterstock_1702136935.png" width="506" height="285" alt="Downtown Pensacola Baseball Stadium" title="Downtown Pensacola Baseball Stadium" style="float: left;" />
Did you know Pensacola has a baseball team? Affiliated with the Minnesota Twins, our hometown baseball team, the <a href="https://www.bluewahoos.com/">Blue Wahoos,</a> offers a great afternoon or evening of entertainment. The stadium is on the Westside of downtown Pensacola, right on the bay. It’s a fun experience and the stadium is beautifully kept. This is a popular spot in Pensacola during baseball season. When it’s not baseball season, the stadium frequently hosts events like movie nights, fireworks, concerts, and comedy shows. We highly recommend purchasing some tickets and supporting the Blue Wahoos or attending one of their other events!
Bodacious
A downtown Pensacola location with multiple activities is <a href="https://bodaciousshops.com/">Bodacious</a>. This is a boutique and a market with fun kitchen gadgets and other household goods. They also have a fantastic selection of wine, cheese, olive oil, aged balsamic vinegars, and more. Bodacious also serves food ranging from gourmet coffee, breakfast omelets [arguably the best in Pensacola], salads, pastas, and more. Also, their meeting room upstairs is a great spot for off-site business meetings with your team.
In addition to those activities, they also offer cooking classes that enable you to learn tips and tricks in the kitchen. As you can see, this is a one-stop-shop for shopping, activities, and eating. Be sure to visit this downtown Pensacola boutique to eat brunch, and then finish off your visit by shopping at Bodacious and moving on to other downtown Pensacola boutiques.
Ballet Pensacola
Visiting the ballet is always a fun experience for the whole family. The dancers who dedicate their lives and careers to ballet are astonishing, no matter what type of performance they’re doing. Thankfully, you can watch a ballet performance in Pensacola at the <a href="https://downtownpensacola.com/businesses/ballet-pensacola">Ballet Pensacola</a>. Since 1978, Ballet Pensacola has served downtown Pensacola with beautiful performances with their amazing ballet company. They have very talented dancers who put on performances all throughout the year. This is a great place to go if you are a lover of ballet or if you have a child who is taking ballet classes.
T.T. Wentworth Museum<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/1980/image/shutterstock_67348384.png" width="520" height="338" alt="T.T. Wentworth Downtown Pensacola" title="T.T. Wentworth Downtown Pensacola" style="float: right;" />
When you visit downtown Pensacola, you won’t be able to miss the <a href="http://www.historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/museums-properties/tt-wentworth-museum/">T.T. Wentworth Museum</a>. It has a grand appearance because of its three-story Mediterranean Revival architecture. This museum has permanent exhibits that cover the history of Pensacola and the State of Florida. They also have changing exhibits that range from local history to international history. These exhibits are incredibly detailed and high-quality, so you don’t want to miss this museum in the heart of downtown. It’s a great way to learn about Pensacola’s history and spend an afternoon.
Jackson’s Steakhouse
One of the more up-scale places to visit in downtown Pensacola is <a href="https://jacksonsrestaurant.com/">Jackson’s Steakhouse</a>. The building this wonderful restaurant is in, less than a block away from T.T. Wentworth Museum, is from the 1860s. It originally housed H Pfeiffer & Company Mercantile and looks over Plaza Ferdinand. This is where General Andrew Jackson accepted Florida as one of the United States from Spain. In this plaza, General Jackson raised the flag to celebrate the victory. This steakhouse has many details inspired by the war hero, such as their logo, which is a recreation of Jackson’s signature. When you eat at this steakhouse, it feels like you’re taken back in time to the mid 1800s.
Other than the historical aspects of Jackson’s Steakhouse, they also serve amazing food. Their grain-fed beef and fresh seafood make for a great dinner whether it be for a celebration or date night. They also wet-age their beef, bringing out amazing flavors that are hard to find anywhere else. The restaurant has been named one of Florida’s top 25 restaurants, so it’s safe to say you should take advantage of it when you’re in Pensacola.
Pensacola Opera
Do you have a passion for watching opera live? If so, you will be pleasantly surprised to find out about the <a href="https://downtownpensacola.com/businesses/pensacola-opera">Pensacola Opera</a>! This is a non-profit organization who puts on professional performances. One of their goals is to provide innovative education through their performances. They also have educational programs and events for both kids and adults. It’s a fantastic place to go for a night of entertainment and amazement of their talents.
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra
If you love classical music or visiting symphonies, be sure you visit the <a href="http://www.pensacolasymphony.com/">Pensacola Symphony Orchestra</a>. The talented orchestra plays beautiful symphonic music starting in February each year, so if you are in town after then, consider visiting! It makes for a great date night, or an event for your kids who are in orchestra at school. There’s something about watching passionate musicians play live that give a whole new appreciation for their work!
Moving to Pensacola?
Downtown Pensacola is truly a special place to be no matter if you are visiting or plan to live here for decades. It’s very common for Pensacola to be a vacation spot for people, and they simply don’t want to leave. So, they move here and become locals. If you are in the same boat and want to become a Pensacola local, <a href="https://www.hansenteampensacola.com/contact/">contact our team</a> to help you find your new home. Our team knows the best Pensacola neighborhoods and can give you advice on where you should be located depending on your interests. We look forward to hearing from you!2020-10-28T06:02:00-07:002020-09-29T04:53:27-07:00Erik Hansen