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St. Johns County

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Welcome To The First Coast

As the voice of real estate for the region, the Northeast Florida Association of REALTORS® (NEFAR) is delighted to welcome you to the First Coast. We know you won’t be sorry about your decision to relocate to this area of the Sunshine State. Our region offers many miles of sandy beaches within a vast six-county area that is divided by a mighty river and anchored by the rapidly growing urban landscape of Jacksonville, which is not only Florida’s largest city, but also the largest metropolitan area – land-wise – in the nation.

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To live and work in Northeast Florida is to live in what many consider a vacation paradise. Along with warm temperatures and sunny skies, our region is a world-class arts destination with eclectic museums and worldrenowned street art. Fresh and saltwater fishing, surfing, coastal and ethnic cuisine, craft breweries, and professional and recreational sports are abundant, including NFL football and PGA golf.

Surrounding Jacksonville’s urban landscape, which includes the largest park system in the United States, are several institutions of higher learning, and the headquarters of some of the nation’s top companies. With a strong economy and an increasing foreign business presence, employment opportunities abound. A hub for the healthcare, finance, and insurance industries, Northeast Florida is also a military center that employs 17,000 active-duty personnel and civilians. With the advent of the Coronavirus pandemic, residents from throughout the United States have been lured to our affordable region with its low property taxes and absence of state income tax.

And as far as housing goes, Northeast Florida has it all – oceanfront mansions, waterfront cottages, country-club communities, quaint historic homes, riverfront high rises, and oceanfront condominiums, all with the latest technological advances.

As a newcomer to Florida’s First Coast, you will most certainly want to avail yourself of the services of a REALTOR®, and that is where the Northeast Florida Association of REALTORS® can help. With our membership of over 11,000 real estate professionals, it is easy to find a housing specialist with the expertise, searching power, negotiation skills, connections, ethics, and sales experience to assist you in finding your dream home. To view thousands of properties currently for sale or rent, visit us at www.NEFAR.com.

So, welcome to our neighborhood, and let us help you as you make yourself at home.

William Glenn East

Chief Executive O cer Northeast Florida Association of REALTORS®

(904) 394-9494 // WWW.NEFAR.COM // 7801 DEERCREEK CLUB RD., JACKSONVILLE, FL 32256

The Northeast Florida Association of Realtors is the region’s largest professional association, representing more than 11,000 members who work in all facets of the real estate industry including residential and commercial sales and property management. It serves the public through support of community a airs programs and seeks to protect private property rights. The Northeast Florida Multiple Listing Service is a wholly owned subsidiary of NEFAR. NEFAR is headquartered in Jacksonville, with satellite Service Centers in Orange Park, Jacksonville Beach, Palatka, and World Golf Village.

Beautiful coastlines, top-rated schools and new neighborhood options in stunning communities are many of the reasons Nassau County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation. As the eastern gateway to Florida, the county is full of friendly neighbors, unique shops and various restaurants. The many neighborhoods in the county span beaches, meadows, rivers and farms, making this a great home for everyone.

Nassau County

Estimated Population: 94,003 (2021) Area: 726 square miles

Photos courtesy of AmeliaIsland.com

AMELIA ISLAND/ FERNANDINA BEACH

Amelia Island is a popular vacation spot known for its golf courses, luxury resorts and stunning beaches. A quick 30-minute drive from Jacksonville, Amelia Island is the northernmost barrier island in Florida and is located on the Georgia border. This beautiful 13.5-mile island is rich in history with eight national flags having flown over the island, giving the nickname of the Isle of Eight Flags. Residents can enjoy easy living in many desirable neighborhoods and communities in Fernandina Beach including a visit to the oldest saloon in Florida. Whether you are looking for a sprawling estate, cozy home or large piece of land, this city offers living options for all wants and needs. Some larger developments on the island include Amelia Park, Azalea Pointe, Sea Grove and Beach Walk. Outdoor lovers can enjoy many activities in the area such as Fort Clinch State Park located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.

CALLAHAN

The rural town of Callahan is located in southwestern Nassau County. Many residents commute to Jacksonville, a quick 20 minutes away. Residents will find multiple neighborhoods to choose from, whether they’re looking for large properties, duplexes, singlefamily homes or a subdivision. With a myriad of outdoor activities available for residents, many enjoy spending time hiking, fishing, biking or enjoy local golf courses.

HILLIARD

Hilliard was introduced to farming in 1909 when North Florida fruit and truck farms began selling farmland to develop for agricultural use. Current housing options for potential residents include single-family homes and apartments. Purchasing undeveloped land is also an option for those looking to build a custom home.

YULEE

The growing community of Yulee is found west of Amelia Island and the Intracoastal Waterway in the largest unincorporated area of Nassau County. The area consists primarily of residential options with planned communities, waterfront properties, apartments and condominiums. Development of the communities such as Wildlight, the Hideaway and Nassau Crossing continue to bring growth to the area. Oak Conservation Center is located in Yulee with more than 7,400 acres of wetlands, pine forest and hardwood hammocks. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities including kayaking, fishing, hunting and hiking. Nestled in Yulee, the community of Wildlight is proud to embrace low country living with beautiful homes that have open interiors full of natural light and sprawling front porches. Choose from single-family homes or luxury apartments in one of the four neighborhoods: The Lofts, Del Webb Wildlight, Forest Park or Founders Park. The community has preserved half of its acreage for hiking, biking trails and parks. Amenities such as a community outdoor pool and events are available to residents.

St. Johns County

Estimated Population: 286,388 (2021) Area: 822 square miles

St. Johns is one of the first two counties in the state, embracing a rich historic heritage and many diverse communities. With much development and growth over the years, many people flock to the area for golf, shopping and to enjoy the gorgeous beaches.

The Reserve at Nocatee, photo courtesy of thereservepontevedra.com

St. Augustine, photo by Kristin Wilson on Unsplash

NOCATEE

See an in-depth description of everything the community of Nocatee offers on page 36.

New neighborhoods and developments are popping up in St. Johns County.

NORTHWEST ST. JOHNS

New neighborhoods and developments are popping up in St. Johns County. The economy continues to grow more with topranked schools and businesses in the area. Switzerland and Fruit Cove are located east of the St. Johns River and south of Mandarin. These rustic communities are the perfect place for those wishing to enjoy a country setting while still having access to the amenities of the area. There are a lot of single-family homes in this area. Many outdoor adventures are waiting with numerous

Mural at Durbin Park, photo by Monica Fields

parks, historical sites and trails for hiking and biking. Julington Creek in northwestern St. Johns County has a variety of residential communities with luxury estates, single-family homes, condominiums and townhouses. The Julington Creek Golf Club has challenging holes through wooded areas and neighborhoods and is one of the many recreational amenities available in the area.

Shearwater in St. Augustine is perfect for families and individuals alike. This community is a quick drive to St. Augustine Beach, historic downtown St. Augustine and the Southeast Intracoastal Waterway Park. The exclusive fitness center, tennis courts, resort-style lagoon, waterslide tower and nature trails are just a few benefits of living in this tranquil community. Nestled in St. Johns County, the Durbin Crossing community is a sprawling residential community that spans more than 2,000 acres. Single-family homes and multifamily units are available as well as A-rated schools, parks, and a golf course. Residents can enjoy nature preserves, activities, events and gatherings at the amenity centers.

The St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board of REALTORS and Multiple Listing Service are happy to welcome you to beautiful St. Augustine and St. Johns County. You will soon discover why new residents have chosen this city as their new home. St. Augustine offers many benefits and opportunities: • N at ion al G eogr aphi c Trav eler M agaz ine rated St. Augustine as one of the top 20 must see places in the world for 2013 • Recognized by FlipKey.com as one of the Best Travel Destinations of 2013 • In 2012, C N N M one y M agaz ine listed St. Augustine as No. 9 out of 25 Best Places to Retire • In 2012, M ar ketW at ch listed St. Augustine as one of the 10 Best Places to Retire in the U.S. • In 2010, Sm ar t M one y listed St. Augustine as one of nine Best New Places to Retire • Active Economic Development by both the Chamber of Commerce and the St. Johns County government • Dynamic business opportunities • St. Johns County School District is recognized as the top school district in the state • Home of the World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum • Small town community with large town shopping and dining • Fantastic weather • Miles and miles of spectacular beaches • World class golf, restaurants, museums and tourist attractions • Flagler Health+ • Flagler College • Castillo De San Marcos National Monument (U.S. National Park) • Fort Matanzas National Monument • Marineland

Not only is St. Johns County a great place to visit, but it’s the perfect place to live. You and your family can’t go wrong with a home in St. Johns County. Let our members, who are local experts, be your guide through the process of buying and selling real estate in the Nation’s Oldest City and St. Johns County. If you are thinking about buying or selling a home or business, please contact one of our Realtors to help make your effort more successful. Visit our website www.stjohnsrealtors.com to select the Realtor of your choice.

Respectfully,

Victor J. Raymos, RCE, ABR, CRS, AE/CEO St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board of REALTORS and Multiple Listing Service

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