The Real Estate Book of St. Augustine & St. Johns County

St. Augustine - St. Johns County, FL

Designer’s Dream

HOME & LIFESTYLE GUIDE Volume 28, Issue 9

C R E AT I V E L I V I N G

3.8 Acre Intracoastal Front Home

RealEstateBook.com

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8

Steps to Finding the Perfect Neighborhood

Barbara B. Jenness, P.A. e-mail: Barbara@BarbaraJenness.com Phone: 904-823-0027 Website: BarbaraJenness.com

11/10/16 5:11 PM

Donna Wendler, Broker/Owner 904-669-3081 SALES • RENTALS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

“We’re the Difference”

904-471-9464

www.thestjohnsrealtygroup.com

St. Augustine’s Newest Waterfront Condominiums

Spacious luxury waterfront condos. FREE Boat Slip With Every Unit.

www.Cortezonthewater.com

BUILT TO LAST

DIRECT OCEANFRONT

BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

SJG&CC POOL HOME

Classic Mid Centrury 4bd/2bth Home.

Lovely spacious home w/ wood floors throughout! Fireplace, large rooms, XL lot w/ room for a pool and many toys!

Minutes to downtown--a great place to call home or use as a rental property. $208,999 Text P556974 to 52187

New Construction. Quality finishes & fabulous views from every room! Large upper decks, upgraded cabinetry & fixtures, open floorplan, elevator, outdoor shower, XL garage w/ storage area. An incredible home for a wonderful lifestyle!!! $1,499,000 Text P556975 to 52187

Beautiful Cypress Lakes home. Backyard overlooks a pond down the 9th hole fairway of The St. Johns Golf Club. Home offers 3 BR / 2 BA w/ tile throughout living area. The French doors open up to a generous patio & backyard. $289,900 Text P703206 to 52187

St. Johns G&CC pool home has every upgrade! Master suite on 1st floor, loft on 2nd floor w/ built-in bookshelves, office/ desk space & cabinetry for extra storage. Salt water pool w/ seating area. $323,200 Text P767157 to 52187

ONE OF A KIND

WATERFRONT PROPERTY

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

ABSOLUTELY LOVELY

Large gated home on 6 acres w/ 4BR/3BA & 2 living areas. Also includes 2 Guest Homes, 2 barns (1 w/ kitchen/wet bar, & 1 w/ loft). Property includes pool, pond w/ gazebo, tennis court & dock. Can be zoned for Multiple Residences. $999,990 Text P214058 to 52187

Short sale, lender approval required.

Great piece of waterfront & marshfront property. 3 seperate buildable waterfront lots already subdivided. Incredible views of water, marsh, ICW & Lighthouse.

REALTOR/BROKER is Owner. $799,900 Text R111670 to 52187

Investor alert, off West King Street.

2 homes, one property; zoned multifamily. 1st home is block: 1 BR/1 BA, 752 Sq Ft w/ porch & carport. 2nd home in back: wood frame, 2 BR/1 BA, 720 Sq Ft. Income gross $19,500/year. $119,900 Text P782554 to 52187

Spacious & Immaculate, lakefront 3BR/2BA home. Light, bright, open floor plan, formal living/dining rooms, large eat-in kitchen, huge master suite, 3-car garage, screened lanai, beautiful water views from most rooms! $397,000 Text P770296 to 52187

4255 A1A South, Suite 3 • 134 King Street • 101 Yacht Club Drive St. Augustine Florida 21904.28.9.002.indd 3

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MURABELLA $245,000 4 Bedroom • 2 Bath • 1979 SF 2+ Car Garage • Screened Lanai New A/C Compressor Text P876344 to 85377

ST.JOHNS RIVER LOT $274,900 2+ Acre Lot w/Dock Permit Your Builder or Ours Spectacular Views Text P1022986 to 85377

ST JOHNS RIVER $879,000 4 BR/4 BA Arthur Rutenberg Home 3978 SF 3-Car Garage Bonus Room To Be Built on Riverfront Lot Text P876114 to 85377

THE RESIDENCES @ WGV 4-BR/4-BA 1st Floor End Unit $275,000 Gated Golf Course Community 2,422 sq ft. Great Investment Potential!

Text P876345 to 85377

LATERRA $164,900 2 Bedroom - 2 Baths - 1450sq ft Condominium Great Investment Potential Pool - Gated - 3rd Floor Text P876347 to 85377

LATERRA $75,000 Studio - Granite Countertops Gated Golf Course Community- 468 sq ft Great Investment Potential!

Text P1055206 to 85377

PALENCIA $565,000 4 Bedrooms 4 Baths 3539 SF Enclosed Pool Private Backyard New Roof LEASE/PURCHASE Text P876113 to 85377

THE LEGENDS @ WGV 2 Bedrooms - 2 Baths - 1050 SF Ground Level - Screened Lanai Granite Countertops Text P1025281 to 85377

PALENCIA $357,000 4 Bedrooms 3 Baths 2631 SF Open Floor Plan 2-Car Garage Fabulous Palencia Amenities Text P989241 to 85377

Expertise isn’t expensive…

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Residential and New Home Sales Property Management and Vacation Rentals

MyHome@iGolfRealty.com

TEXT IGOLF TO 85377 TO VIEW MORE PROPERTIES 21904.28.9.003.indd 11

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Steve Thomas

Bruce Garrison

Broker/Owner Cell:

Realtor®/Owner

386.503.8171

Cell:

SteveThomasRealtor@gmail.com

386.931.4620

BruceLGarrison@gmail.com BruceGarrisonSells.com

FlaglerCoastRealEstate.com

Excellence is our Trademark Office: 386.447.6889 889 • 416 SS. Central Av A Ave. e • FFlagler lagler Beach Beach, FL 321 32136 • 101 Palm Harbor Pkwy., European Village, Unit 120B • Palm Coast, FL 32137 $499,000

$338,000

$324,900

CRESCENT LAKE 5 Acre 3BR/3.5BA completely remodeled home.

Freshly painted, new floors, new kitchen, and new appliances. Great floor plan for entertaining or to enjoy the ambiance of the fireplace. Lots of natural lighting. Text R62356 to 52187

GATED COMMUNITY Beautiful 4BR/3.5BA POOL home.

Great floor plan includes a dining and living room w/ fireplace perfect for entertaining. Large covered porch over looks the pool. Text P1015297 to 52187

CUSTOM 3BR/2.5BA Pool home with upgrades galore. A large kitchen with upgrades is perfect for entertaining. Large covered lanai and backyard fire pit make a true getaway! Text P217831 to 52187

$269,900

$219,900

$199,900

POOL HOME Private 5BR/2BA home located on an oversized lot in a quiet cul-de- sac. Large kitchen with granite. Spacious floor plan perfect for entertaining. Large fenced yard perfect for families. Text P1037199 to 52187

WELL MAINTAINED 4BR/2BA upgraded throughout. Featuring a formal living, dining and family room with a fireplace. Spacious kitchen. Large back yard with room for a future pool.

Text P821411 to 52187

POLO CLUB WEST Gated Equestrian Community. 5 Acres cleared lot. Close to HWY 100 and Old Dixie Hwy. Only 6 miles to the Ocean. Survey Included. Text P498481 to 85377

$175,000

$167,500

$165,000

BEAUTIFUL Pool Home! 3BR/2BA with a light and bright interior, vaulted ceilings, plant shelves, rounded archways and recessed lighting. Eat in open kitchen. Huge private fenced back yard. Text P302626 to 52187

MOVE IN READY! Almost brand new 3BR/2BA home located in Matanzas Woods. Great room concept with vaulted ceilings, dining room and breakfast bar.

The kitchen features upgraded counter tops and s/s appliances. Text P238956 to 52187

RIVERFRONT INTRACOASTAL Beautiful 2BR/2BA condo. Gorgeous river and pool views from your wrap around balcony with a glimpse of the ocean.

Designated underground parking and storage area. Text P1042852 to 52187

$154,900

$153,900

$109,900

SPLIT PLAN Large open 4BR/2BA home. Energy efficient lighting throughout. Newer kitchen appliances. Fully fenced large backyard with plenty of room for a pool. Motivated Seller!

Text P1015365 to 52187

OCEANFRONT CONDO Furnished 2BR/2BA condo. Functional floor plan, open living area, and large bedrooms w/ balconies. Community pool and beach walkover. 2 Year A/C. Text R117137 to 52187

FLAGLER BEACH LOT Build your dream home today! Uncommercialized paradise. Walk to the beach within minutes. Begin your relaxing lifestyle today!

Text P1040559 to 85377

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We have the

keys to the beach

WATCH THE WAVES

OCEAN VIEWS FROM ALL ROOMS

Move-in-ready condo with community amenities.

SEA HAVEN | $299,000 [A-161] | TEXT: P209311

Live elegantly: Upgrades, community amenities.

3BR/2.5BA | $599,000 [Q-17] | TEXT: P163445

T

OCEAN VIEWS

OCEAN VIEWS

Beach life: Upgrades, endless community amenities.

Updated unit: Balcony, pools, and beach access.

SUMMERHOUSE | $304,900 [S-349] | TEXT: P317471 SUMMERHOUSE | $289,000 [S-357] | TEXT: P233467

OCEAN VIEWS

BEACH/POOL IN YOUR BACKYARD

Treat yourself: Community amenities, steps to beach. Shopping, restaurants, and more around the corner.

HIBISCUS CONDO | $325,000 [H-30] | TEXT: P731708 SEA PLACE | $299,000 [S-347] | TEXT: P482456

REDUCED

RED

WALK TO THE BEACH

BIKE TO THE BEACH

Private, spacious home with elegant touches.

4BR/2.5BA | $389,900 [B-103] | TEXT: P482453

Easy living: Cute home in a beautiful community.

CEDAR RIDGE | $279,500 [C-212] | TEXT: P547440

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U OCE

CAROL SULLIVAN

TOLL FREE: 1.800.471.3401

904.814.6915

COLLEEN SULLIVAN

904.477.4280

JOSE CRESPO

904.806.3660

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904.495.1061

KAREN LINDSEY

904.669.6917

MARGIE LINDSEY

386.931.7172

MARY KRYZWICK

904.347.4024

SHERRIE MARLOWE

904.891.4447

UPGRADED BRICK POOL HOME This high-and-dry beauty sits on over half an acre. Massive great room, breezy lanai, two sheds.

3BR/2BA | $359,000 [R-89] | TEXT: R88511

es.

467

INTRACOASTAL FRONT CONDO

GROUND-FLOOR CORNER UNIT

Commanding views, upgrades, amenities.

3BR/2BA | $312,000 [C-214] | TEXT: R90185

Pond/golf course views. Close to beach & more.

THE GREENS | $145,900 [C-213] | TEXT: R95746

er.

6

.

40

REDUCED

REDUCED BY $40,000!

STROLL TO THE BEACH

OCEANFRONT

Upgrades, tanning deck, private fenced yard.

OCEAN VIEW | $485,000 [A-160] | TEXT: P554189

Beautiful views; beautiful home; beautiful location.

4BR/2.5BA | $839,000 [O-122] | TEXT: P308058

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ON THE COVER

Barbara B. Jenness, P.A.

Barbara@BarbaraJenness.com

904-823-0027

BarbaraJenness.com

LOCATED WITHIN ST.AUGUSTINE'S BOATING COMMUNITY CAMACHEE ISLAND is this 3 Story 3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath home. Lightfilled open feel, with two private sitting areas with gas fireplaces to enjoy the sunsets. Private balconies everywhere, screened patio, wraparound deck, and huge windows providing the best views in the area of the Intracoastal on 3.8 acres. MLS:165985 $879,000

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For advertising information in The Real Estate Book of St. Augustine, FL contact:

Suzie Adams

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(386) 338-4110 TREBcoastal@gmail.com

11/10/16 5:12 PM

SHOULD YOU HIRE A HOME S TA G E R ?

By Rachel Collar

Selling your house? You may be considering whether or not to hire a home stager. Professional stagers know how to show off a home to its best advantage, but that means an additional out of pocket expense to the homeowner. Are they worth the added cost? Here’s what to consider before hiring a professional stager:

THEY ARE NOT REALTORS®.

THEY HAVE CONNECTIONS.

THEY BRING A FRESH PERSPECTIVE.

THEY REDUCE STRESS.

A home stager’s job is to market your home visually, not to act as your sales agent. Like your Realtor®, however, they are working towards the same goal: to help you get your house sold in the shortest amount of time and for the best possible price. Statistically, homes that are staged end up selling quicker, and often for a higher price tag than the competition.

Although you may think your home is beautifully decorated, an expert stager will see your property with an impartial set of eyes. In other words, they will view your home as a potential buyer would, flaws and all.

Stagers aren’t there to criticize your taste, but rather to show off your home to its fullest potential.

THEY CAN FIX THE PROBLEM.

Whether you have a bathroom sorely in need of an upgrade or an awkwardly placed fireplace, a stager knows how to deflect attention away from problem areas and emphasize a home’s assets. Professional stagers typically have access to an inventory of furnishings and accessories that they’ll arrange to showcase your home’s focal points. With their flair for design, they can sometimes find ways to use homeowners’ existing pieces to a whole new advantage.

An experienced stager most likely has a pool of providers that they work with on a regular basis. There are professional stagers who will schedule house cleaners, landscapers, or repairmen as a part of their service, and they will make sure the work is done on time. As an added plus, some stagers may pass their industry discounts for these services onto you.

Getting a home ready to sell is filled with lots of chores and small details. Home stagers take on some of that burden. Besides scheduling housecleaners and other necessary services, there are stagers who will also handle small details like displaying fresh flowers or making your home smell more inviting by baking cookies prior to an open house.

THEY KNOW THE LATEST TRENDS.

From the most popular bedroom paint colors to the hottest kitchen designs, professional stagers keep up with design trends. They also make it their business to know what’s going on in the local housing market. If your abode is the only un-staged home for sale in the area, chances are, it will be overlooked. By knowing what is currently drawing in buyers, a home staged by a professional can give the seller a competitive edge.

If you decide that hiring a stager is right for you, be sure to get referrals. Check online for reviews, and ask your real estate agent to recommend a professional stager they’ve worked with in the past.

Sources: Fearless Edith, Fresh Home, Nolo

HOW TO MAKE YOUR BEDROOM FEEL LIKE A FIVE-STAR HOTEL

By Rachel Collar

Nothing compares to the feeling of checking into an upscale hotel. You slide the room key in and open the door with great anticipation and high hopes to rest your weary traveler bones. What awaits you is better than you could have dreamed. A decadent combination of style and comfort folds out before your eyes, filling your senses, and inviting you to live like royalty during your stay. While you enjoy the bliss of this pampered accommodation, it is only a temporary retreat. By the end of your stay, you may find yourself wondering why your own boudoir does not hold the same intrigue and splendor. With a small investment and thoughtful details, you can bask in complete serenity every time you enter your bedroom.

To begin transforming your space into a five-star destination, you must first remove all excess clutter that does not promote relaxation. Separate items into categories and disperse around the house into a new location. Next, create or purchase storage options that remove the mess from sight. If you must have your office in your bedroom, try and contain the area to one corner or wall while keeping it neat and contained. Shelves should be sparse and not crammed with objects.

Consider the space you are working with. Can furniture be reconfigured in a more relaxing or simplified manner? Is there excess furniture that is really not needed in the room? The less furniture, the more open and spacious the room will feel.

Make sure the scale of the furnishings are appropriate for their location. The bed should be the focal point and easy to get into. Flank the bed with night time lighting using either matching lamps on nightstands or installed sconces above the headboard. Keep draperies simple and make sure they can be pulled back.

Most importantly, do not cover the windows with large pieces of furniture. Letting the sunlight in and enjoying the view are part of life’s small delights.

The wall colors you select are essential companions to your lighting. Keep tones soft and muted for a peaceful vibe that promotes clear thinking and restful nights. Consider buying a trendy metallic removable wallpaper for a fun accent wall. Your hotel bedroom is not complete without fine art, or at least some really great imitation fine art. This is simple to achieve and may involve items you already own. Black and white landscape prints can be framed and matted to create a streamlined and subdued tone of artwork.

Use magazine photos of travel and cultured settings to save money. Keep frames simple and coordinating to ensure a seamless look.

If your bedroom is a gourmet cake, then your textiles are the rich frosting on top. The bedding that you choose should be nothing less than spectacular. The finest hotels often have bedding that is almost completely white or tan with textured throw pillows. Do not settle for a thread count less than 500 on your sheets and try bamboo cotton for a truly delicious feel that keeps you cool while you sleep. Hold your pillow in your hand and ask yourself if you have feelings of complete bliss or indifference towards it. I am serious.

You should L-O-V-E your pillow. If you do not, ditch it and get a new one. Your five-star bed must be like a cloud that you cannot wait to sink into. Unless you are buying furniture, the bedding is where to put your money.

A small and plush seating area is a great way to create boudoir bliss. A soft chair next to a window where you can snuggle into a good book; A loveseat adorned in pillows to take a moment and breathe in the morning or enjoy a glass of wine at night. The most fabulous hotels excel at creating these moments of comfort by using well designed seating areas. Remember to keep color and print muted and use texture in fabrics to create depth and luxury. The addition of this opulent element will turn your bedroom into a destination that you can enjoy all day long and not just at bedtime.

Indulgence is often experienced when all five senses are employed. The eye takes in the simple elegance of the neutral palette and soft colors, while touch is fulfilled with those high thread count sheets and luxurious throw pillows. Take time to add the ambiance of music to please the ears. Light a scented candle or use an essential oil diffuser to fill the room with the aroma of relaxation. As for taste, clearly this decadently decorated retreat is oozing with great taste, but go ahead and order some strawberries and champagne to seal the deal. Sure, you may have to double as room service, but you will never have to pack up and leave this five-star accommodation.

Sources: www.pinterest.com , www.fivestaralliance.com , www.freshhome.com

NATURAL CLEANING SOLUTIONS FOR A SPOTLESS LIVING SPACE

By Danielle Harling

While many people are quick to make a fuss over which accent piece will make their living room pop or which paint color might brighten their kitchen, it’s easy to overlook something as simple as cleaning products. The fact of the matter is, a number of go-to cleaning products can be doing more bad than good. If you think your only option is to purchase overpriced, natural cleaning products, think again. Some of the most effective cleaning products can be made at home using only a handful of ingredients.

Tile Cleaner: The quickest way to sabotage a great-looking bathroom is to let mold run rampant. Its pesky presence can take a space from fab to drab in record time. Never underestimate the power of common, household goods when it comes to defeating mold. Baking soda and warm water alone can take care of your bathroom tile. If you need a little extra cleaning power, mix hydrogen peroxide with water to blast away mold. Just wait 45 minutes or so after spraying before you begin wiping down the mixture from your tiles.

All-Natural Kitchen Cleaner: Our kitchen countertops are one of the most used spaces in our homes, so an all-natural cleaner is a wise choice for keeping your countertops spick and span. Vinegar is again the star of the show with this natural cleaning solution. This all-natural kitchen cleaner is made using a combination of distilled white vinegar, water, tea tree oil, and grapefruit essential oil. Thanks to the combination of tea tree and grapefruit essential oil, this cleaner is as pleasantly aromatic as it is effective.

Wooden Furniture Polish: Dull, wooden furniture can be a major downer, and store-bought polishes don’t always cut it.

To bring life back to your wooden furniture, try whipping up a simple solution of lemon juice, flaxseed oil, and distilled white vinegar.

Antiseptic Aromatherapy Room Spray: A great smelling home is the ultimate pick-meup. Not only does this room spray give your room a heavenly smell thanks to the addition of the natural oil(s) of your choosing, it also pulls double-duty by helping to fight icky germs. To create this room spray, simply combine distilled water with vodka and germ-fighting oil(s) of your choice (think cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary).

Homemade Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Since the toilet is easily the ickiest place in your home to clean, one would think they’d need a barrage of chemical-heavy, cleaning supplies to tackle this chore. Not at all. In fact, a number of ingredients in toilet cleaners, like hydrochloric acid, can be quite toxic. Thankfully, this allnatural solution ditches the toxicity and calls for natural ingredients in its place. To create your own toilet bowl cleaner, combine white vinegar, lemon juice, and tea tree oil.

Sources: Wellness Mama, The Kitchn, Healthy Blender Recipes, Well Gal, DIY Natural

5

WAYS TO BRIGHTEN A DIM ROOM

by Talaia Whisenant

Although modern homes and new construction builds have rooms with at least one natural light source (yes, even closets!), some rooms are just dim and difficult to light. The room may be windowless, or in a dark wing of your home, or it may contain characteristics like wood panel walls and ceilings that make the room feel unbearably bleak. Luckily, there are techniques that can brighten a dim room and creative ways to bring more light into your space. Say goodbye to cave living!

1

SEE THE LIGHT If the rooms in your home aren’t flooded in natural light, and if your budget allows, installing new windows will help you “see the light.” Work with a designer who specializes in home remodeling to find the best areas in the room to install new windows. The designer may even suggest installing a skylight, which consists of an opening in the roof or ceiling that is fitted with glass to let daylight in. Enhancing your home with new windows and skylights are not only great for the space they will also add to the resale value of your property! If windows already exist in a dim room but not enough light is entering, the light blocking source could be outdoors. Trees and bushes often block sunlight so make sure your bushes are trimmed and tree limbs are cut back. You may even decide to remove that big bulky tree blocking out all of the sunlight!

2 FURNITURE AND ACCESSORIES

Avoid dark, bulky furniture in dark rooms.

Instead, opt for modern chairs and couches as well as metallic and glass table tops. Furniture and accessories with neutral tones or those with bright bold colors are perfect for dark spaces.

Large mirrors are essential for reflecting and bouncing light in a room, especially when placed across from windows and glass doors. The reflected light catches and preserves most of the detailed characteristics of the original light. You can also brighten dim rooms with large paintings that are light in color, or use airy window treatments and textures.

3

GLASS DOORS

Who doesn’t love glass doors in a home? They not only brighten dim rooms, but are also classic and make your home stand out. Glass doors are great both internally and externally, and are a way for rooms to share light. Change out light blocking solid doors for glass and French doors in dark bedrooms rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, hallways, and let the light pour in!

4 PAINT

Opt for neutral paint colors in dim rooms by sticking with whites, beiges, tans, and light grays. These colors will brighten the room and make the space appear larger than it is. Paint your ceiling white which will reflect any natural and artificial light; you can also lighten dark floors with paint or refinish dark wood for lighter hues. If you’re not ready for drastic changes to your wood floors, covering them with light colored rugs will brighten a dim room.

5

ARTIFICIAL LIGHT Often times, the intensity of the light bulbs in a room may not be strong enough, so simply changing them out can do wonders. Swap out low wattage bulbs for high wattage light bulbs. Try using LED bulbs, which will drastically improve the light in your space. Lighting accessories like table and floor lamps with light colored shades also help and add a bit of style to the decor of a dark room. Another option is to install light fixtures like sconces and recessed lighting for a soft and polished look in the room.

NOW LET THERE BE LIGHT!

8

STEPS TO FINDING THE PERFECT NEIGHBORHOOD

By Jacklyn Renz

You’ve made the decision to move from one home to another. Exciting, isn’t it? While you peruse the internet and drive around taking in the sights of several new-home hopefuls, have you considered the immediate location of your potential places? If our house is the ultimate picture of homestead happiness that we hope to see ourselves in, then the neighborhood is the frame in which that picture is encased. We have gathered a few points of perfection for your new neighborhood.

PINPOINT YOUR WANTS

Before setting foot in a home, sit down with your family to list out what you want in your new neighborhood. You should of course consider the price point of the house, but don’t stop there. Think on the small things that make your life pleasurable such as sidewalks or access to a pool. What kind of space do you want between you and your neighbors?

Do you want to live in a Neighborhood Watch Protected Area? Are you looking for a single-family home or something different? This list of neighborhood wants will serve as a great jumping off point.

VALUING THE VIEW

As you make your way through each neighborhood, take in the view and we don’t just mean the scenery. Look at the other houses surrounding your potential home. Do your neighbors keep the yards well manicured? What about the upkeep of the homes themselves, such as paint jobs and gutters? Observe the signage, too. Are there several rental signs? If so, your neighbors may fluctuate on a more than desirable basis. What about foreclosures? Considering these points will give you an idea of how well your home will hold its value.

PONDERING POTENTIAL EXPENSES

Besides the price tag of the mortgage, the neighborhood that you choose can also affect your monthly expenses. For starters, property taxes differ depending on what county and state you reside in.

At times, development within an area can also raise property taxes. Further still, some neighborhoods have monthly or annual HOA fees. A Homeowner’s Association can regulate the upkeep of your home and mandate certain updates that could potentially cost you money.

SIGHTS, SOUNDS, AND SMELLS

We’ve covered several points on the sights already, but let’s hammer that one home. Take a look at your potential immediate neighbors’ houses. Make note if they have anything, such as a tarp covered car or a broken down fence that may be less than desirable to look at each day. When cruising through at various hours, try to notice whether or not the neighbors are loud. What about the buzz of a busy road? Finally, take a whiff of the air. It may sound strange, but you never know if there may be a sewer backup or a stagnant body of water nearby.

BASIC COVERAGE

When deciding where to live, remember that much of our time is spent outside of the home. Consider your commute time to your 40-hour a week home away from home. If you have children, choose a house close to their school, especially if they are involved in after-school activities that will take you there more than five times a week. Close proximity to your most frequented locations will give you more time to enjoy your new house and less time in your car.

When you are assessing your neighborhood, research goes a long way.

Look up the crime rates in the various possible home locations. Review your family’s collective personality. When it comes to your lifestyle, think about local points of interest that you want to be close to. For example, an avid outdoors explorer will want to have rural terrain nearby. A family who eats out more than they eat in will want plenty of eateries to choose from. If you consider the type of person you are now, then your home’s location will cater to it.

CRUISE AND OBSERVE

FUTURE FOCUSED

COMMUTE AND CONVENIENCE

All neighborhoods seem to take on a culture of their own. Try to get an idea for the feel of the neighborhood before you sign on the dotted line. Cruise through at all hours of the day and after dark. Once the sun dips down, are there people still out? Are there families around? Do you see several cars parked on the road or are they garage kept? These are just a few of the clues that give us an idea of what sort of neighborhood we are buying into.

Our final point focuses on any future changes coming down the pike. Are you planning on having children or are your children going to graduate upwards to a new school while at this house and, if so, all the schools they will attend should be nearby. What about job changes? Think about when you may change houses again and what this neighborhood’s value will do.

Save time and heartache by considering these neighborhood points before buying.

With a little pre-planning, your home will be centered in a location that you love as much as the house!

Sources: HGTV.com, sterlingliving.com, forbes.com

TRASH TO TREASURE: BECOME A BARGAIN DECOR EXPERT For decorators on a budget, there is nothing more exciting than discovering a diamond in the rough.

Garage sales, thrift stores and seasonal sales hold a special intrigue for these treasure hunters as they search endlessly for the hidden gems that will polish up to become centerpieces in their home. Some look for antique tables that have covered their beauty in years of old paint and dust, just waiting to be sanded and refinished to their former splendor. Others simply want to repurpose discarded items such as pallet wood or turn an old piece of scrap metal into a lamp. Though some people seem to have a knack for extreme bargain hunting, anyone can become an expert with a few tips and a little practice!

GARAGE SALES Though there is no doubt that one can find a deal on internet resale sites, there is nothing that can replace a good old fashioned garage sale, where you can see items with your own eyes and negotiate price. Make a list of garage sales in your area and go early to catch the best deals. Show up again before they close shop to see if the seller is willing to take less for unsold goods. Look for well-made and name brand treasures that are either classic in style or very unique. Do not hesitate to take on small repair or upcycle projects that may just require a little paint.

SALVAGE The most literal interpretation of trash to treasure is to pay nothing for your project because it is discarded material. Pallet wood has endless possibilities and can often be found for pennies or completely free at local businesses. Wine bottles can be painted and repurposed into a vase for wildflowers. Farm crates become shelving for a shabby chic kitchen while an old tin bucket houses magazines. Get creative with your free finds but always ask permission before rummaging through another’s discards.

SCRATCH AND DENT Try shopping the clearance section of home stores and large department stores for damaged items that may only require a small repair or modification. Shop at the end of each season to find the best markdowns. With very few tools and the help of the internet, you may be able to repair an item that could be marked down to a fraction of the original price. Never hesitate to ask for a manager and negotiate.

THRIFT STORES It is amazing what people are willing to donate when it comes time for spring cleaning. Checking local thrift stores often and right at opening is a good way to fall into the find of a lifetime. Many thrift stores have newsletters that will send out coupons or notifications of new stock. Know your brands and materials. The best way to become an expert shopper is to spend time in high end stores, window shopping for your dream decor. Once you develop a sense of your own taste and the feel of fine home goods, you will be able to quickly identify the same items or look-alikes that have been relocated to the shelves of the resale store. Become a regular and some store managers will put you on a list to call for specific items if they come across them.

Now that you are a bargain decor expert, consider giving back by donating your own unwanted items to a fellow treasure hunter!

Sources: www.pinterest.com, www.thisoldhouse.com, www.refinery29.com

Text NETWORK to 85377 for all listings in your area.

Karen Peil

Broker-Associate

904-501-3070 Karen.Peil@bhhsfnr.com www.MyStAugustineHome.com

CUSTOM OAKBROOK HOME on 1/2 acre treed lot with beautiful backyard and room for pool.

3100 SqFt, 4BR/3-1/2BA with spacious rooms, upgrades and ground level bedroom/bath. Visit www.3300WoodburyCourt.com $389,900 MLS:163900

GREAT ISLAND LIVING in this 3BR/2BA concrete block Ocean Palms home with gorgeous lake views from most rooms and covered lanai. Room for pool, three car garage, and updated systems and appliances. www.320SanNicolasWay.com $449,900 MLS:165979

GREAT 3BR/2BA BEACH COTTAGE steps to beach or pool. Views and breezes from porch. Perfect home, second home or vacation rental. Visit www.11TarponDrive.com $414,900

WALK TO THE BEACH from this 2BR/2BA townhouse style condo with attached garage. Newly updated baths! Great island living with 3 decks/patios and view of courtyard pool. www.11DondanvilleRoad16.com $229,900

SPACIOUS NORTH CITY 5BR/3BA home with 2759 sqft.

Floor plan great for shared living, home office, or large families. Original wood flooring and updated systems, appliances. Visit www.61MagnoliaAvenue.com $384,900

Looking to sell your St. Augustine home? Just call Karen and to have your property advertised here as part of her complete marketing campaign!

Visit MyStAugustineHome.com and click on My Home's Value today!

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$315,000

ANASTASIA CONDO - 3Bedroom|2Bath|1300Sqft.

- Ground Floor|New Windows - Renovated Complex|Great Rental MLS:161525 Text P555809 to 52187

REDUCED! Bring Offers!

$280,000

$299,900

$379,900

SEAPLACE - 2Bedroom|2.5Bath|1,148Sqft.

- Fully Furnished|Steps to Beach & Pool - Investment Property|Weekly Rentals MLS:164531 Text P312414 to 52187

SEASIDE OF ANASTASIA -3Bedroom|2Bath|1448Sqft.

- Top Floor|Vaulted Ceilings - Updated Baths|Ocean Views MLS:166386 Text R102516 to 52187

ANASTASIA CONDO - 2Bedroom|2Bath|1,250Sqft.

- 7th Floor|Amazing Views|Gated - Heated Pool|Private Beach Access MLS:161722 Text P627899 to 52187

Sherno Broker - Associate 904-501-1989 Rob@CoastalRealtyFl.com

3942 A1A South St. Augustine, FL 32

TO VIEW LISTING ON SMART PHONE, TEX 21904.28.9.010.indd 2

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$534,900

$319,900

WINDJAMER - 3 Bedroom|2 Bath|1,400Sqft.

- Remodeled|Balconies|Parking Garage - 2nd Floor Ocean & Intracoastal View MLS:164742 Text P1020220 to 52187

CAPTAINS QUARTERS - 2 Bedroom|2 Baths| 1200Sqft.

- First Floor|Garage|Great Views - New A/C|Glass Balcony|Fully Furnished MLS:164192 Text P1007378 to 52187

$298,000

MULTIPLE UNITS AVAILABLE

SUMMERHOUSE - 2 Bedroom|2.5Baths| 1064Sqft.

- Updated|Beautiful Kitchen - Furnished|Turnkey|Resort Amenities MLS:158422 Text P810326 to 52187

OCEAN VILLAGE CLUB

- 2BR/2BA MLS:165232 $300,000 - 2BR/2BA MLS:158473 $297,000 - 2BR/2BA MLS:164643 $257,950

- 2BR/2BA MLS:162451 $247,900 - 2BR/2BA MLS:162399 $247,900 - 2BR/2BA MLS:161468 $234,900

$259,900

$159,900

CRESTON HOUSE Amazing ocean views & sunrise daily from both Oceanside balconies of this - 2 Bedroom| 2 Baths| 1240SF- Balcony Floorplan|Ocean Views - Renovated Complex|Resort Amenities MLS:158467 Text P813345 to 52187

ST.AUGUSTINE SHORES -3Bedroom|2Bath|1100Sqft - Remodeled Kitchen & Baths - Florida Room|Nice Backyard MLS:166593 Text R117380 to 52187

Huston-Robshaw Sales Associate REALTOR® (904) 806-2696 Kay.Huston@coastalrealtyfl.com

tine, FL 32080 Office: 904-471-9344

ONE, TEXT 85377 AND ENTER TEXT CODE 21904.28.9.010.indd 3

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NEW CONSTRUCTION Pictures, Elevations, Feature, Sizes and Colors are Approximate for Illustration Purposes Only and Will Vary from the Homes Built. Call for Locations and Pricing

Text P848007 to 85377 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Convenient First Floor Condo, No Stairs to Climb! MLS:165744 $127,000

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Text P848004 to 85377 Build your Dream Home…on this 1+ acre, treed lot in Hastings, Florida. No HOA or CDD Fees. Only 19 miles from Historic St. Augustine, Florida. Just under 11 miles to Palatka, FL. MLS:162336

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Text: AwesomeRE to: 85377 To View All Available Properties

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For More Information Please Call (904) 679-4676 or visit emeraldhomes.com/nfl *Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. See your new home consultant for details. **All square foot dimensions are approximate. Pictures, elevations, features, sizes and colors are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. CBC058997 ©2016 Emerald Homes, Inc. All rights reserved.

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GET ALL THE DETAILS OF THESE HOMES INSTANTLY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

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85377

HERIT been dining inside

Text P309624to 85377 2900 SF 4BD/2.5BA HOME with large fenced yard! Modern and comfortable kitchen with Island work space and formal dining. Kitchen is open to large great room. Upstairs has a great open loft. Wonderful screened porch with paver patio and a fire pit! $269,900 T162TM

Where do you want to be?

Text P234775 to 85377 BEAUTIFUL 3BD/2BA LAKEFRONT HOME in conveniently located Cypress Links. Open floor plan, large kitchen with island and plenty of cabinet and counter space. Office can easily be converted to fourth bedroom.

Screened lanai overlooking lake and golf course. $244,900 C432TM

Text P309620 to 85377 HANDICAPPED FRIENDLY WITH WIDE HALLS, large master bath shower etc. Split floor plan with large rooms & closets. New carpet throughout. Re-plumbed in 2016 includes 5 year warranty. Fenced back yard with shed. New siding and exterior paint. $244,500 T160TM

teresamercurio@hotmail.com 21904.28.9.014.indd 9

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1159 has b living close

GREA bedro room a she

Text P262028 to 85377

Text P312061 to 85377

HERITAGE LANDING 4BD/3BA home is just the one you have been waiting for! Well maintained with large open floor plan, two dining areas, downstairs bedroom/office space, oversized garage, inside laundry and large fenced in back yard. $215,900 E98TM

DON’T MISS THIS RIVERFRONT BEAUTY! 2254 SF 3BD/2.5BA Brick home sits on 1.63 acres, has a dock and 2 detached garages!

Potential for an in-law suite off the main house, screened porch and more. Located in Bostwick outside of Palatka. $262,000 C439TM

pace ened

Text P310773 to 85377

Text P272809 to 85377

1159 SF SPACIOUS 3BD/1BA CONCRETE BLOCK HOME has been totally redone and has all new appliances! Great living space with inside laundry room. Located in Palatka and close to shopping, schools and more. $69,900 W170TM

164’ OF HIGHWAY FRONTAGE ON STATE ROAD 16 offers over 7 acres of vacant land, bordering a pond and the highway. What More Could You Need? $795,000 S503TM

Have an investment property that you would like to rent but don’t want the headache of doing it yourself?

Contact Elsie today!

Elsie Evans, Property Manager RE/MAX 100 Realty 904-825-2700 rentals@remax100realty.com

Text P309621 to 85377

GREAT FAMILY HOME ON NICE QUIET STREET. This 3 bedroom home offers two living areas, large kitchen, dining room and screened porch. In ground pool with nice deck and a shed for outdoor storage! Great house for $65,000 C438TM

We have tenants requesting rentals daily and are looking to expand our inventory. Let us minimize the stress and make renting your property a pleasant and profitable experience.

Teresa Mercurio

Broker/Owner

Office: 904-825-2700 Cell: 904-377-0974 teresamercurio@hotmail.com www.buystaugustine.com

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JANICE BROWN

BRANDON PARSONS

Broker/Owner 904-540-7760 Text: JaniceBrown To: 85377 to view all properties available 101 Orange St. St. Augustine, Fl 32084

Realtor Associate

904.219.9818

Realtor Associate

904.599.3644

brandonparsonsrealty@gmail.com

ericbeardsleyrealty@gmail.com

ED

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TL

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ERIC BEARDSLEY

Text P789728 to 85377

FLORIDA CLUB 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo. Complex offers Mediterranean style furnished clubhouse w/ billiards room, state of the art fitness center, resort style swimming pool, and heated spa Located the Royal St. Augustine golf course. $115,000

Text P796275 to 85377

BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED 2/2 CONDO IN ST AUGUSTINE BEACH! Fully furnished, fully equipped, and completely turn key unit in desirable Hibiscus Resort w/ pools, clubhouse, and easy beach access. $195,000

Text P484668 to 85377

GREAT BUILDING LOT IN LINCOLNVILLE! Only vacant lot in this area under $200K! Nicely Landscaped. Fairly Quiet Street With Less Through Traffic. $120,000.

Text P484664 to 85377

CANAL FRONT MH IN DESIRABLE TREASURE BEACH! 1991 3/2 Mobile Home w/ screened porch and attached garage. Great Water Views. 75 Feet On The Water, Bulkheaded. Great getaway!! $195,000.

Text P795392 to 85377

2 STORY HOME W/ FABULOUS OCEAN VIEWS! 2/2 Just A Couple Hundred Feet From St Augustine Beach. Floor plan offers many possibilities! $499,000

Text P473022 to 85377

CANAL FRONT HOME IN CONVENIENT LOCATION! 2,100+ Sq. Home Located in Palm Coast with Easy Access To Everything! Open Floor Plan, Fireplace, Enclosed Lanai. $289,000

VACATION RENTAL IN THE HEART OF HISTORIC LETS TALK DIRT! Downtown building lots starting DISTRICT! Please see the booking sites for @ $79,900. Other lots available staring @ $1,900 booking info www.vrbo.com/607032. There are 4 suites total. :607032, 607862, 677383, 717144

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Text P795386 to 85377

ELEGANT 5 BDRM 3.5 BATH Home W/ UPGRADED FLOOR PLAN! A must see!!

Beautifully decorated one of a kind pool home. Numerous upgrades. $359,000

Text P131649 to 85377

WOODED 10 ACRE PARCEL WITHIN 10 MINUTES OF DOWNTOWN!! Located On Cr 214 (w King) Just Past The I-95 Intersection. Carve Out Your Secluded Home Site. $225,000.

Text P484660 to 85377

STATE ROAD 206 WITH 340 FEET OF ROAD FRONTAGE, 440 Feet Deeo. Future Commercial Potential!. Water and Sewer are Available. Great Site! $124,900.

VACATION RENTAL WALKING DISTANCE TO OLDE TOWN! For more information about this listing please visit www.vrbo.com :730273

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