May 31, 2021

Winter Garden’s Newest Gated Subdivision To Be Built By M/I Homes

In Tilden Place at Winter Garden, a gated community located between Winter Garden Vineland Road and County Road 429, M/I Homes began developing 55 homesites.

The two parcels of land are opposite Emerald Ridge and West Orange Country Club and consist of 28.3 acres in total. Last November, M/I Homes paid almost $4.7 million for the two parcels. David Byrnes, Area President for M/I Homes, says that new construction homes backing to private conservation areas and with pond views will become available for sale in June on Tilden Road, one of the last opportunities for home buyers.

“We’re building two distinct product lines in Tilden Place at Winter Garden, with prices from the mid $400,000s to high $700,000s,” Byrnes said. “We offer spacious, flexible floor plans, as well as numerous decor options and exterior features. And, we provide peace of mind in the form of a 15-year transferable structural warranty.”

A variety of M/I Homes’ Grand Series floor plans ranging from 2,818 square feet to over 4,500 square feet will be available to buyers across 80-foot wide homesites. Each plan features three to six bedrooms, three to four baths, and either three or four-car garages. There are 15 of the large lot sizes.

There will be six different models in the Eco Series, which are available from 1,857 square feet up to 4,350 square feet, and are comprised of 3 to 5 bedrooms, 2 to 4 baths, and two- and three-car tandem garages located on  50-foot-wide lots.

The builder offers an array of single-story floor plans that include optional bonus rooms, and buyers can choose whether the owner’s suite is on the first or second floor in some two-story plans, Byrnes said. “Or, you can build your dream home with two full owners’ suites.”

“The architectural style here is a combination of craftsman and traditional Florida design,” Byrnes said, adding that multiple elevations offer front porches, and spacious lanais and balconies.

A playfield, a picnic pavilion, a playground, and a dog park are included in the amenity package.

There are currently ten active M/I communities in Central Florida as well as a 206-lot subdivision within Osceola County that was recently purchased. Bay Lake Farms, which is adjacent to D.R. Horton’s Harmony West, will be constructed in June as well.

It had a record-breaking first quarter of this year with $3 billion in total revenue, despite operating in 15 markets across 10 states. M/I has been active in the market for 13 years and is active in 15 markets across 10 states. With nearly 5,500 units in backlog, the company sold $2.4 billion in units across all markets in the first quarter. In 2020, the average sale price of backlog units will be $433,000, up from $399,000 in 2019.

The company’s quarterly revenue increased 43% to $828.8 million, and the number of contracts increased 49% over last year.

Posted in Real Estate News
May 15, 2021

Horizon West: Taylor Morrison Expands Presence with an $18.8 Million Purchase

Taylor Morrison, one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, has purchased a spot in Village I on Horizon West for $18.8 million.

Taylor Morrison, one of the nation’s largest production builders, just paid $18.78 million for a subdivision called Harvest at Ovation near Disney. The acquisition includes 285 single-family home lots and 161 townhomes on 90 acres along Hartzog Road east of Avalon Road and the Orlando International Airport

Taylor Morrison has agreed to buy a position in Horizon West that is currently awaiting approval. The site provides for 814 homes within the Withers Planned Development and two separate school sites. Taylor Morrison will join Toll Brothers, which purchased 368 single-family and townhouse sites in Horizon West at Ovation through a $14.76 million land-banking arrangement early this year. Construction on the production center and model homes will start next spring, and sales are anticipated to launch this summer.

After the recent acquisition of property in neighboring Horizon West, Taylor Morrison now owns 128 acres through joint ventures with Pulte and Del Webb..

Taylor Morrison paid $18.8 million in a purchase of 49 acres from a joint venture of Columnar Investments and Oakview Capital Management, which has been approved for an updated Land Use Plan.

Arizona-based homebuilder Taylor Morrison has paid $18.8 million for an additional position in Horizon West, where it is active in the Hamlin section and has two communities: Enclave at Hamlin (nearly sold out) and Overlook at Hamlin. Taylor Morrison offers a variety of floor plans to suit any lifestyle, including urban cottage styles on 32-foot lots and executive homes on 85-foot waterfront lots. Prices start from the high $600,000s.

Taylor Morrison has agreed to spend $18.8 million for an additional piece of land in North Florida, where it plans to put the Village I development. Taylor Morrison is expanding its position in Horizon West, which when completed could accommodate roughly 2,500 single-family homes and 300 units of multifamily housing.

TMH currently has 12 active communities underway in Central Florida, none of which offer townhomes. With the Woodland Park development now sold out, we expect TMH to focus on providing more units at other smaller developments.The company has three new townhouse projects in development in Polk County and another outside of Ponte Vedra.

Taylor Morrison has paid $18.8 million for a 70% stake in Horizon West, making the investment to prepare itself for its largest project in the market, Solivita Grand near Poinciana. Solivita Grand is approved for over 6,000 residential units..

Posted in Real Estate News
April 14, 2021

Is Clermont Florida A Good Place To Live?

When moving to a new place, a lot of questions and uncertainties linger in our minds. And it’s natural. Moving to a new place can be a huge decision and can be a tough one to make. So, if you are moving to Clermont Florida then it is understandable for you to ask, is Clermont Florida a good place to live?

Clermont, Florida, also known as the ‘choice of champions,’ is an excellent place to settle down with your family. Beautiful sights, fantastic weather, and a peaceful environment make it a great place to live. People also consider Clermont to be a good place to live because of the quick growth rate of the real estate market and affordability of living in the city.

You have to consider several things before finalizing Clermont as your hometown. All of which I will discuss in this article. So, I advise that you read till the end.

About Clermont Florida

Clermont is one of the top-notch cities in America. The city possesses many qualities that make it a perfect destination for people looking to settle down. The city is well-known for its stunning hills and lovely lakes. Any nature lover would be enticed by the magnificent combination of hills and lakes.

Some information about Clermont, FL:

  • Clermont, Florida, is a beautiful town in Lake County. It is in Florida State of the USA.
  • According to niche.com, 35,209 people live in Clermont. The median home value is 233,000$, and the median rent is 1,415$ in the area. The report also shows that the median household income is 64,736$ in the town.
  • The climate of Clermont is mild. The weather generally stays warm. July is the hottest, and January is the coldest month of the town. Clermont gets an average of 52 inches of rain per year.
  • There are plenty of schools in the town. Some of the town’s public schools are Lake Minneola High School, Pine Ridge Elementary School, and Lost Lake Elementary School. The city also has a good number of private schools with high ratings. Among them, Real Life Christian Academy, Family Christian Center School, etc., are notable.
  • You can also get good medical facilities in the area. Orlando Health South Lake Hospital, Vanguard Medical Center, AdventHealth Celebration, Town Center Medical are some of the noteworthy hospitals.
  • There are many options for outdoor recreation in the area. Some of the recreational spots are Lake Louisa State Park, Showcase of Citrus, Southern Hill Farms, and Presidents Hall of Fame.

Is Clermont Florida Safe?

Clermont is one of Florida’s safest cities. The crime rate is lower than in most American towns, and the number of violent crimes in the region is very low. Property crime is also lower compared to other cities of Florida.

The Police Department of Clermont works tirelessly to ensure a safe town for the community. The reliable and responsive police of the area play a significant role in crime prevention and public awareness. As a result, residents of the town can enjoy a secure environment without worrying about their safety. Several reports show that Clermont is a highly secured area.  

  • According to a report by neighborhoodscout.com, Clermont is 29% safer than other U.S cities.
  • A report by SafeWise shows that Clermont has secured its position among Florida’s 50 safest cities in 2020.
  • As stated in a report by bestplaces.net, violent crime and property crime in Clermont is 12.7 and 41.5, respectively, if ranked on a scale of 1 to 100.

Hence, from the data and statistics given above, it can be clearly said that Clermont is a safe place to live with your family. And, another good news is that crime rates in Clermont are steadily declining over time.

The Pros of Living in Clermont Florida

Some locations around the world are the ideal blend of natural beauty and livability. Clermont, Florida, is one of them. You can get many facilities by living in the city. A few of them are affordable costs of living, a beautiful environment, and many outdoor recreational activities.

Here are a few pros of living in Clermont, Florida-

1. City of sunshine and natural beauty

Weather serves as one of the deciding factors of whether a place is good for living or not. If you are a sunshine lover, this is the most significant advantage of living in Clermont for you. Clermont has perfectly moderated weather. The combination of rainfall and sunshine gifts the area spectacular nature.

The town is called ‘Gem of the hills.’ The green hills and blue water creates an eye-catching view for everyone. Being able to live in the arms of nature is one of the finest pros of living in the city for sure. 

2. Plenty of job opportunities

The city is full of youth opportunities. As the real estate market is growing fast, it is opening a road for many real estate investors. It is also creating job opportunities for many. Hancock Real Estate is one of the highest-rated places to work in Clermont. There are also different sectors for jobs in the town.

So, you not only get to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the town but can also secure your future by choosing the best suitable job from plenty of the job options in the city.  

3. Affordable cost of living

Clermont offers its residents an affordable lifestyle. As I have mentioned earlier, the city has a rising job market. Also, you won’t have to pay any state income tax. On top of that, the medical and transportation facilities are also relatively lower than the national average.

Thus, you can easily get a well-paid job and can ensure a cozy lifestyle for you and your family.

4. Away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando

Being a tourist spot, Orlando is quite a busy city. Clermont is about 24 miles away from Orlando. The town is calm and peaceful, and there is not much crowd in the area.

But, you can also go to Disney World pretty quickly from Clermont and enjoy a fantastic time with your family and friends. The pleasant and relaxing environment is one reason why the town is a dream home location for many.

5. Numerous options for recreation

You can do loads of things in Clermont. The town is full of options for outdoor recreational activities. You will be able to have a delightful time with your loved ones in the city.

The following is a list of a few things to do in Clermont, FL-

  • Visit Lake Louisa State Park, Lake Minneola, and Waterfront Park and enjoy with your family.
  • Go to the Presidents Hall of Fame and Clermont’s Historic Village and get amazed to see the historical artifacts.
  • You might also love to visit Crooked River Preserve, Magical jump, and Victory Pointy Park of Clermont.

According to areavibes.com, Clermont has a livability score of 82. It ranked 2373rd among cities in the United States, outperforming 91 percent of regions. The town offers many advantages to its inhabitants. Thus, Clermont is unquestionably a wonderful place to live.

Conclusion

By now I’m sure you have a proper idea of whether or not is Clermont Florida a good place to live. Going through the article, I’m sure you can see that Clermont is a wonderful place to settle down with your family with its affordable living costs, great environment and safe neighborhoods.

I hope this article was of help to you and helped you choose your next home. Thanks for reading and until next time, farewell. 

Posted in Real Estate News
April 13, 2021

Is Windermere Florida A Good Place to Live?

Finding an ideal hometown for you is not as easy as it sounds. You have to consider tons of things to choose the perfect place for you. So, if you are thinking about moving to Windermere, Florida, then you might be curious to know, “Is Windermere Florida a good place to live?“

Windermere is a great family-oriented place to live. It is a peaceful town with a high safety level. There are many job opportunities, plenty of schools and many beautiful places to visit. The weather is moderate, and the local people of the town are nice and friendly.

Well that’s just the gist of it. In this article, I will discuss in detail what kind of place Windermere Florida is and provide information on everything you might need to know before moving there. So, keep reading till the end of a complete idea of what it might be like to live in Windermere Florida.

Everything You Need to Know about Windermere Florida

Windermere is one of the most peaceful towns in the USA. It is full of tourist attractions and is a hometown of many celebrities. According to an article by Orlando Sentinel, the town is known for stars and lakes, and you can even enjoy the fascinating lake views from the lakefront homes.

Some information about Windermere, Florida-

  • Windermere is a small town in Florida State. It is located in the southwest corner of the busy Orlando city.
  • According to Data USA, the town’s approximate population is 3,346, and the poverty rate is 3.37%. The report also shows that Windermere’s median household income is 117,232$, and the median property value is 567,600$.
  • In Windermere, the summers are long, and winters are usually short. The summers are hot and mostly cloudy. In the town, generally, the hottest month is August, and the coldest month is January.
  • There is a great deal of renowned public and private schools in Windermere, FL. Windermere Elementary School, Bay Lake Elementary, Windermere High School, and Windermere Preparatory School are a few of the town’s top schools. These schools frequently receive top grades from the Florida Department of Education.
  • Some of the best hospitals near Windermere are Winter Garden Centra Care, Health Central, Orlando Regional Medical Center, Florida Hospital Cancer Institute, etc.
  • There are also many public transportations near the town. Some of them are I-Ride Trolley, Smart Shuttle Line, Starline Express, Maze Transportation, etc.
  • The place has many tourist attractions and historical sites. Brockhole- Windermere Lake, The Lakes Aquarium, Fell Foot Park, Walt Disney World, Windermere Branch Library are some places you will love to visit.

These are a few things about Windermere, FL, that you need to know before moving to the place with your family.

Why is Windermere Florida a Great Place to Live?

Windermere, Florida, is a good choice of place for living. It has all the features a family might look for in a community to live peacefully. Low crime, good educational institutions, friendly neighbors, etc., make the town a perfect place to move in with family. There are also many options to enjoy outdoor recreational activities in the town.

According to areavibes.com, Windermere’s livability score is 79, and it is the 218th ranked city in Florida which makes it better than 86% of areas. Here are some of the reasons why Windermere is a great place to live-

1. Family-friendly town

When it comes to choosing the perfect home town for you, Windermere is one of the top choices. It is an ideal place to live with your family. As there are plenty of high-rated schools in the town, so you can ensure quality education for your kids.

The town is safe, peaceful and there are many things you can enjoy with your family members. You can ensure sound education for your children and also a well-secured job for you as there are many job opportunities in the town. As a cherry on top, you won’t have to pay state income tax. So, it is a very desirable place to live for families.

2. Calm and beautiful environment

There is a reason why Windermere is home to many wealthy and famous people. Who doesn’t like to enjoy the natural beauty of the lakes? The moderate weather, beautiful lakes, and beautiful lakeside homes are highly enticing.

It is a soothing town away from the chaos of the busy Orlando city. Butler chains of lakes surround the town. The lovely lake water and splendid landscapes create a mesmerizing environment that is enough to give anyone peace of mind. 

3. High level of security and safety

As many wealthy people and celebrities live in the town, so the safety level is very high. According to Neighborhoodscout.com, Windermere is 54% safer than other US cities, and the crime rate is lower than nearly 77% of Florida districts.

But like any other town, there are some crime hot spots you will have to avoid to stay safe. There are much fewer violent crimes in the area if we compare it to other cities. Thus, it is one of the safest places in Florida for sure.

4. Friendly and easygoing residents

Windermere is one of the top-rated towns in Florida for different reasons. The friendly and helpful local people of the town is no doubt one of the reasons.

‘The local farmers market’ that takes place every Friday helps create a close bond among the residents. The tenants of the town are used to meeting new people as many tourists visit different areas of the city. They are very welcoming, and you will be able to make lots of friends and well-wishers easily.

5. Amazing opportunity to enjoy outdoor recreation

Like I have mentioned before, the town is famous for being a place for tourist attractions. Can you imagine staying only a few miles away from Walt Disney World? The Lakeland Pony Trek, Lake District Adventuring, will give you a wonderful experience.

There are many stores, restaurants, parks you can visit with your family and have an amazing time together. Other than that, you can also play golf at the Windermere Country Golf Course and have fun with your family and friends.

What to Do in Windermere Florida?

There are many fun things to do with your family in Windermere. Some of them are visiting Disney World, enjoying Orlando Lake Tours’ sights, waterskiing in Florida Ski School or Florida Lake tours, playing golf in Golden bear club, and so on.

A list of the things you should do in Windermere, FL-

  • Visit Disney World, Universal Orlando, the Escape Game Orlando, and LEGOLAND to enjoy a fantastic time.
  • Visit SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and Florida Manatee Adventure to get a different thrilling experience.
  • Enjoy beautiful lake views from Orlando Lake Tours, Butler Chain Guided Tours, and other lakeside resorts.
  • Get unique spa experiences from Indigo Spa & Wellness Center, Marilyn Monroe Spas, or The Salt Scene.
  • You can also go to the Windermere Branch Library and read your favorite books in a peaceful environment. 

Windermere is a dream place for many. Imagine living in a place where people come to visit from various countries. You can never get bored in a town full of opportunities to enjoy fun activities to pass your leisure. I have mentioned only a few of the things you can do in Windermere. Move to the town and figure out the tons of things you can do in Windermere.

Conclusion

So, is Windermere Florida a good place to live? Of course it is. When it comes to public safety, security, and quality of lifestyle, Windermere in no way lags behind. It’s a gorgeous place and I highly recommend this place if you are looking for a new place to call home. I hope this article was able to educate you on why Mindermere is such an awesome place to move with your family. Thanks for reading and God bless.

Posted in Real Estate News
April 13, 2021

Is Winter Garden Florida A Good Place To Live?

Winter Garden located in the west of Orlando is a charming small town in Central Florida. If you are planning to move to the flourishing town, you are probably thinking, “Is Winter Garden Florida a Good Place to live?” 

Winter Garden is very close to some major cities, but it still maintains a peaceful environment. This warm town provides all the modern facilities you can think of, including the best education system. You can find a lot of things to see and do in Winter Garden. 

In this article, I will talk about why Winter Garden is a good place to live with your family. And you may also wonder, “What is Winter Garden Florida known for?” or, “What to do in Winter Garden Florida?” You will have the answers to all of your questions from this article. 

Why Winter Garden Is a Good Place to Live? 

Winter Garden Florida has a lot of things to do for its inhabitants. The town is mostly known for its Florida-like environment and traditional setting. Apart from having a rich culture and friendly community, it has a lot of things going to keep the locals busy.

Here is why Winter Garden is becoming popular among new families:

The Location

One of the first reasons why people like to move to Winter Garden is its perfect location. The town is close to a few major cities of Central Florida. Hence, it is pretty close to the theme parks of Florida. So, people can easily visit places from Winter Garden Florida. 

If you are concerned about the tourists visiting the theme parks, then you do not have to worry. The town is not frequently visited by tourists although it is close to the theme parks. So, you will not be disturbed. As a result, not only families but also people of various professions are choosing Winter Garden as their home.

The Weather

Whenever people decide to choose a place to live, they certainly think about the weather of the place. The weather of Winter Garden is warm in winter and hot in summer. Hence, a lot of people come from northern parts of the U.S. to live in Winter Garden. 

In fact, many families have their winter homes in Winter Garden so that they can live in a warm place during winter. 

The People and the Community 

The people living in a town are the ones who build it. The people of this small town are friendly and peace-loving people. There is not much interference from the outside world. There is locally owned business, wonderful parks to walk around with family, and a natural environment in Winter Garden FL. 

Besides, the locals arrange community events regularly to keep a close bond in the community. The people in the town know and understand each other very well. You do not have to be worried about being someone new in town. The townspeople will make you feel comfortable and one of them in a few days. 

Downtown Winter Garden 

Downtown Winter Garden has both old and new buildings in the town. You will see old buildings which were built in 1908 when the town was established. You can also find modern eateries, restaurants, cafes, stores, shops, and boutiques in the city. 

Besides, you can attend cultural functions, music shows, and exhibitions Downtown. Hence, you have a lot of fun things to do in the town. 

Farmer’s Market

Due to the abundant sunlight and sufficient rain, Winter Garden Florida is a haven for farmers. They can grow plenty of fruits and vegetables all around the year. The farmers of the community bring their fresh produce to Downtown Winter Garden. 

So, if you want to have seasonal fruits and vegetables, you have to visit the farmer’s market in Downtown Winter Garden. The market sits every Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM. The market is not only a place to buy food; you can also meet and greet everyone you know in the town. It becomes a meeting place more than a market.  

Plant Street Market

The Plant Street Market Is the place for people who want to buy things with a local touch. In this market, you will find artists and crafters selling their beautiful creative crafts. Besides these fancy things, you will also find bakeries and cafes. 

These shops in the market are very famous among the locals for their homemade cakes, chocolates, pastries and other baked goods. The local people love to visit the Plant Street Market to help the local artists, bakers and farmers do good business. 

Natural Beauty 

If you and your family members love to stay close to nature, then Winter Garden Florida is the best for you guys. The city welcomes many people in this town and lets them establish their business. But the people still protect most of its natural spots and resources. 

The authority of the town makes sure to keep natural areas protected so that the animals and birds also have a safe place to live in the area. To any nature lover, The West Orange Trail is the most attractive part of the town. This 22-mile pathway starts from Killarney Station and ends at Rock Spring Road in Apopka. 

When you follow the path, you will come across the forest areas of the town and at the same time see modern infrastructures. You can also take a walk beside the Apopka River and swim in the water. The town has also been famous for its citrus gardens. Although the gardens are not as they used to be, the juicy fruits still grow plenty in the town.

Fishing

You will not be disappointed to live in Winter Garden if you love fishing. The lake Apopka and other lakes like Toho and Harris are abundant with plenty of fishes to keep the anglers busy all day. Fishing tournaments take place throughout the year. 

You will never get bored when you go fishing. However, you should get a fishing license allowing you to fish in Florida   

Education in Winter Garden

If you are a parent moving to Winter garden with your children, your biggest question will be, what are the schools like in Winter Garden, FL? The good news is you do not have to worry about your child’s education or upbringing in the small town. 

You will find both public and private schools that are certified A listed in Winter garden. The Lake Whitney Elementary school ranked 85th of 2182 schools, and Independence Elementary ranked 93 in the list of best schools in the state. Moreover, the location of Winter Garden makes it close to the best colleges in Orlando. 

Is Winter Garden Florida Safe?

According to a survey in 2020, Winter Garden Florida is one of the top 50 places to live with family and grow up kids. The crime rate of the town is comparatively low, and the law enforcement department is always ready to protect the citizens.

According to a report by the FBI, the chance of becoming a crime victim is 1 out of 36 in the town. Therefore, you can certainly say that the town is among the safest places to be with your family, especially children. 

Conclusion 

So, Is Winter Garden Florida A Good Place To Live? You must have understood by now that shifting your family to Winter Garden Florida can be one of the best decisions in your life. The friendly people, natural environment, education system and ranges of activities will make your life more exciting and eventful. 

Hope this has helped you decide whether or not Winter Garden is the right place for you to move in. Thanks for reading and until next time, farewell

Posted in Real Estate News
March 1, 2021

Top 10 Overlooked Items When Owning A Vacation Rental

When you choose to own a vacation home there may be some things that you may overlook when getting the property ready to welcome guests. Here we will talk about the top 10 things that can be easily overlooked.

1. Taking professional photos

I see many owners who spend a great deal of money setting up the property with love and care only to shortchange it by putting up photos that don’t properly represent the home. Hire a professional real estate photographer. Having great photos will make your rental stand out in the crowd. It’s important to put your best foot forward, You’ve only got one shot to make a good impression.

2. No AC shut off when the patio door is open

It’s a good idea to install a switch to turn off the AC when the patio door is open. It’s very important that renters understand that in the climate of Orlando when the door is open the AC will not operate. An air conditioner that is forced to overwork can freeze. It’s also important to limit the temperature that the air conditioner can be set to. In Florida setting the air conditioner to 75 degrees and locking the controls will prevent the AC from freezing up and save money in repairs.

3. No emergency key at the front door

Most rentals operate with a keypad on the door and a code unique to that door for each customer. However, mistakes can be made or the battery may need replacing. It is good for the owner to keep one extra key in a mounted lockbox to be used in case the electronic keypad is not working that day.

4. No candles

I can’t say this enough, you don’t want to encourage people to light fires in your home. Leaving a candle can suggest that it is appropriate for them to light. If you’ve purchased this Home from another owner, remove all candles even decorative ones.

5. Locks on the pool access doors

Make sure the locks on your pool doors are 54 inches off the ground, so the kids cannot reach them. Since sliding glass door locks can be difficult for the novice to operate, I suggest using a cal-bolt. It’s easy to install and difficult for a child to operate while being easy for an adult and prevents break-ins.

6. Keep your front door clean!

First impressions mean everything in this business. Make them feel welcome with a nice clean, yearly painted, front door. When guests see fingerprints, scratches, dents and dirt it suggests that the home is not well cared for. Don’t invite a poor impression of your home before the guest has even entered.

7. Using mixed colored linens

Though you may want nice decorative linens, I strongly suggest that you don’t. When the cleaners come, they have 4 to 5 hours to clean all linens in the house which means they have to be washed together. Even pool towels should be white. A uniform color is easier also because it would be challenging for them to remember what color sheets went with what room. Some rental agencies bring clean linens and remove the dirty ones for washing. In that case, the management company will tell you if you need to purchase linens. But they will once again be white.

8. Ceiling fans operated by chain cords

Don’t do this. You don’t want a guest, child or adult standing on the bed pulling on the chain cord. The ceiling fans should be operated strictly by a labeled light switch. Don’t invite a liability you can avoid.

9. Do not rent the grill as an additional payment to the renters

It’s either got to be included in the rental fee at no charge or an outside service (recommended) will deliver a fully gassed, fully cleaned grilled upon request. If you decide to provide a grill for free most cleaners will not clean them. If you want to charge an additional fee for use or cleaning then please check with your insurance company first, because you may not be covered if there is an issue.

10. No glass by the pool

PERIOD! Very often I will sell homes that have been rented through another owner and I will see several glasses in the cabinet. Remove them. Do not buy glassware and here’s why: broken glass in a house or the pool that isn’t picked up could cause severe injury especially to people walking barefoot. If broken glass gets into the pool, the pool needs to be drained and cleaned at a cost of several hundred dollars. If there is broken glass most renters are not going to tell you. Personally, I removed all glassware from the rental and request guests to not purchase any glass during their stay.

While these items individually are not major, they are meant to prepare you to prevent any issues and allow you to give that all-important good first impression.

Posted in Real Estate News
Feb. 15, 2021

Top 10 Features Short Term Renters Look For Near Disney

After five years of running three short term rentals in the Disney World area I created a list of what renters are looking for.

Within my first year of owning property near Disney world, I was featured on the front page of the New York Times travel section.

I quickly realized when running the property that the more times you can say “yes we have that” the more bookings you will receive.  Certainly, sometimes Renters will overlook certain criteria because they love your house. But why should you struggle!? Make it an easy choice for them by planning wisely!

1. Close to Disney World

Close means under 20 minutes but 10 minutes and under is best. The number one question I received in every single email request was “how far are you away from Disney?”  You can’t fudge this number– the closer the better. Have a map available so that you can show guests that you are just a few minutes to Disney World. 

They also ask for outlet shopping and, of course, Universal Studios, but being close to Disney World is the number one feature. Don’t let anybody tell you that you could rent a property that is 45 minutes from Disney World. 

2. Gated

Renters don’t know the area.  Being able to say, “you will be greeted at the gate when you arrive,” makes renters feel secure.  This is probably one of the best features that you can have but don’t make it seem like they are in danger.  Possibly saying this is a great community and we keep a watchful eye on our residents will work. However, a gated community with 24 hour attendant is best.

3. First-floor Bedroom and Full Bath (not necessarily the master)

If you have a one-story home this is not an issue of course. But when you have a two-story home it is vitally important (to secure that booking) that you have a first-floor bedroom.  You will frequently get renters with the need of having something for a person with limited mobility.  Having a downstairs bedroom with attached full bath really answers that need.

4. Close To a Grocery Store

Both overseas travelers and US travelers are going to have grocery needs. Being near a grocery store is a great thing to point out in your listing but the most requested shopping destination that I have been asked for is Walmart! I think that is because no matter wherever you are traveling from, you know and reconize Walmart.

5. Ample Parking

You would think that a normal home has ample parking but with short-term rentals, that’s not necessarily true. I like to look for rentals with my customers that have additional parking either on the street if there aren’t two spaces in the driveway. 

Older, pre- 2005 homes weren’t built this way and often have limited parking.  You may think the family would only need one car however very often renters come in several cars with members of their family and friends.

6. Basketball court/Tennis

Court games: volleyball, tennis, basketball. Anything that your community has that’s a little bit different from other communities.  One of the great things about having a short-term rental is that your guests can take a few days to themselves to unwind. It’s helpful if while they’re unwinding there are a lot of things for the kids to do.

7. South Facing Pool

A south-facing pool is a very significant feature when it is obtainable.  The south-facing pool allows the sun to be over the pool to get the sun in daylight hours all day.  Use your listing as an educational tool for your renters to make you stand out. “Our south facing pool gets the sun all day”

8. Arcade Space In House or Community Center

Frankly, I never understood this one. When I first bought my home I was shocked that the game rooms were in the garage. Unless garages are insulated, even when it is they are not air-conditioned and in central Florida, they can get quite hot so I like when you have enough space to bring the gaming room into the house either in a loft or in an extra living room. 

This way you can position yourself by saying “we have an actual game room, not a converted garage”. Educate your renters that you are better.

9. Space By The Pool To Stretch Out

Nothing in your photos should ever look cramped, an example of this furniture that is just too big for the room. It makes the room looks small. Beds that block a window is another no-no because the room looks too cramped to sleep in. You can always set up the furniture for photography then change it back. 

Then finally when you have an area by the pool which does not allow room to stretch out well what’s the use of having a pool?  You need space to stretch out. Don’t over crowd that space with furniture in photos.

10. Strong Word of Mouth Advertising For The Community!

By far this is a top feature. You want renters who are already familiar with your community. Generally, it’s by other people they know who have rented in there.  They seem to recommend the home that they stayed in, but you often get the call that says, “the house my friend stayed in is booked but yours looks so much better” and you’ve booked it!

Bonus – Themed Rooms

Short term rentals near Disney with Disney themed rooms. I had Dalmatian, Western, and Mary Poppins. Each room was equally differentiated with the different paint colors.  In short term rentals, the owners often lose enthusiasm when halfway through the decorating.  I can’t say this clearly enough: make the rooms stand out! 

Frequently I would have guests tell me that they chose their rooms. ”Mom is taking the green room, we are in the Blue (Mary Poppins), the girls are in the Dalmatian, and our son wants the Western room.” This type of planning means they are excited to stay in your home.

Conclusion

Finally, most importantly, the home must be photographed beautifully by a professional real estate photographer. When I was a short-term rental owner I was quite astounded by the poor photography which owners would post. You will stand out with the simple $125 purchase. 

First impressions mean everything! That’s why you have the best of photos possible upfront and not just a photo of the front of the house but what makes your home stand out!  I’ll cover more of this in my next article, “The Top 10 No-No’s of short-term rentals”

Posted in Real Estate News
Feb. 1, 2021

What Is Next-Gen or Multi-Generational Living?

Next-generation homes, also known as multi-generation housing, is growing in need as more and more families are combining with older members of the family or younger members who need their individual living spaces while still sharing living expenses.

Three builders in the Disney World area are now featuring a connected suite in a single-family home. The suites can feature a living room, bedroom, and kitchenette type area. One of the builders includes the full kitchen with a bedroom, living room, and full bath. All of these are separated with their own door to the suite, (some builders feature models with an extra one-car garage) and they have an entry door on the outside of the property, for that extra level of privacy.

This provides the resident whether it be a senior or a younger person, their only individual living space. In-law suites are nothing new but the way next-generation housing is designed — being on the first floor of the unit —makes it substantially better than what was used in the past which was a unit over the garage. Since in many cases an in-laws suite is not really a great idea to be on the second floor when the resident may be challenged in climbing stairs.

This truly is the next generation in housing by allowing older family members Whether it be a grandmother, grandfather, or a set of grandparents to have their own distinct living situation with the new home. Togetherness and individuality under one roof. These homes make it simpler for families to combine living expenses while still allowing each other the freedom to live virtually independently.

Posted in Real Estate News
Jan. 19, 2021

The Mark Shopping Plaza Coming To Winter Garden

The Mark in Winter Garden will soon be a brand new centrally located shopping plaza in the Sidel section of Horizon West nestled within the community of Watermark. This area will feature shopping and dining options for everyone to enjoy.

Who Are The Tenants?

Some of the proposed tenants are a gas station, pizza place, coffee shop, chicken restaurant, Italian Ice shop, pharmacy, and brewery. Along with a learning center and health center. We have heard that Huey Magoos is a popular chicken restaurant that is expanding its presence. Starbucks will feature a drive-thru and is already a popular addition in the area. Walgreens and 7 Eleven are also said to be joining the mix.

We all should start to see tenants around the later part of 2021.

Convenient Shopping Area

This shopping area will be very convenient from some local areas being that it’s less than one mile east of the new Horizon West high school and the homes of lakeshore preserve and to the west is the communities of Latham Park, Ravenna, and Summer lake.

Posted in Community News
Jan. 11, 2021

Homes Near Disney World That Have A View Of The Fireworks

One of the key features that I consistently get asked for as a relator is “Can I find a home where I can see fireworks from my backyard?” The answer is absolutely yes!

Last year I was looking for just the same thing. I wanted to have a backyard with one of the best features of living so close to Disney.

It just requires a little bit of knowledge of the area and logistics but seeing is believing. Unfortunately for me I moved in about 2 weeks before Covid hit and the Disney parks closed.

Hopes of Fireworks

Now that the parks have re opened and the hopes of fireworks are returning it can be difficult to prove that you can see the fireworks so you really have to go by your own knowledge of the area.

In the past with customers, I would go out to the individual community and set up a camera to show them the fireworks at night. This was helpful when they’re not in town as otherwise we would do it together.

Best Communities To See Disney Fireworks

There are some really wonderful communities where you can see fireworks from your backyard! These would be located in Winter Garden, Windermere, and Orlando. However, some of my buyers in places like Clermont can also see fireworks from if not their home, in their community .

Some of these communities are:

  • Waterleigh
  • Watermark
  • Legado
  • Lakeshore Preserve
  • Latham Park

The community of Watermark includes an observation deck in their community center, from which residents can go to the second floor and look out to the fireworks each night. So if you can’t see Fireworks from your individual house In many cases you can see it from observation areas in the community

Recently I had the joy of a customer posting a video of the fireworks that they saw from the very own home that was in Winter Garden. Winter Garden is located immediately west of Disney World. You can access Winter Garden by Western Way located near Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Watching Fireworks From Horizon West

Another section of Clermont is called Horizon West. From certain vantage points you could see directly into the Magic Kingdom. For example, from one builder I can see Spaceship Earth and from another community I can see the Grand Floridian Resort and The Contemporary Resort. There’s even one community where you can see the very tip of Cinderella’s castle!

My View Of The Fireworks

I love telling people about my experience living near Disney World. When I go out on my lanai which overlooks a pond in the mornings, I listen to the ferry boat whistles as they cross the seven seas lagoon. At night I hear the music of the Electrical Water Pageant as it traverses the seven seas lagoon.

Once the construction of Tron is finished, I am told I will be able to hear the Walt Disney World Railroad as it in circles the Magic Kingdom. Finding a home near Disney where you can experience Disney from your backyard has always been a dream of mine which I am thrilled I was able to make happen.

Posted in Real Estate News