Golf Course Living in Central Florida: Not Just a Home, It's a Lifestyle

Discover the allure of golf course living in Central Florida, where a home offers more than just a place to live. Embrace a lifestyle enriched with health benefits, social opportunities, family-friendly amenities, and serene, scenic beauty. Explore why moving to a golf course community could be your perfect lifestyle match. Golf course living is more than a golfer's dream. It's a lifestyle choice that gifts you a bounty of benefits, from health and wellness to socializing, all set against a calming, scenic backdrop. In recent years, it has become a popular choice for people of all ages who are moving to golf course communities for their family-friendly and safe environment. It can feel very much like resort-living. Here's why golf course living in Central Florida could be your perfect lifestyle match. Health and Wellness: Your Daily Dose of Fitness and Mental Peace The golf course is not just your playground; it's your gym. The low-impact sport of golf is a fantastic cardiovascular workout and a great way to burn calories. The tranquil, green surroundings can be a stress-buster, enhancing your mental wellbeing and reducing anxiety. The sunny Florida weather also ensures you can enjoy these benefits year-round. Social Opportunities: Bonding Over Birdies A golf course is a community hub, a place to meet like-minded people and foster strong relationships. The social events at golf clubs, from tournaments to dinners, offer plenty of opportunities to connect, network, and create lasting friendships. Central Florida's diverse and vibrant community makes these events even more enriching. Family-Friendly: More Than Just Fairways Golf course communities cater to all family members, offering amenities like clubhouses, pools, and playgrounds. It's the perfect setup to spend quality family time and encourage an active, balanced lifestyle. Many Central Florida golf communities also provide junior golf programs and family-friendly events, ensuring everyone can enjoy the lifestyle. Serene Environment: A Visual Treat Living on a golf course is like having a personal slice of paradise. The ever-changing, well-maintained landscapes offer a daily dose of scenic beauty, adding a touch of luxury to your everyday life. Central Florida's lush landscapes and beautiful golf courses make this experience even more delightful. Privacy and Tranquility: Your Personal Retreat Some golf course homes offer an unrivaled sense of peace and privacy, with ample green spaces to buffer noise. This tranquil setting is ideal for relaxation and improving your quality of life. In Central Florida, you'll find numerous golf communities that provide the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle. Investment Value: A Smart Choice Golf course homes are not just desirable; they can be a smart investment. Their value remains stable thanks to the location and amenities. As the focus on health and wellness grows, the appeal of golf course living is likely to rise, potentially boosting property values even further. According to Jason Becker, PGA Golf Pro and CEO of Golf Life Navigators, it's essential to ask your real estate professional these key questions before making a commitment: Number of Homes for Sale: How many homes are currently on the market in this golf community? The typical club community has an annual turnover rate of 8-10%. If there are more than 15% of homes for sale in the community, that should raise questions as to why. Waitlist: Does the club have a waitlist? Waitlists are a common hurdle these days for buyers. In many clubs, it could be 3-5 years before your number is called. Understand how the waitlist operates, including deposits, usage of the club, playing ability, etc. Family Involvement: Is this a family-friendly golf community? Does it offer any beginner programs or activities for spouses and children who are interested in learning golf? Additional Amenities: What other amenities are available besides golf? Are there facilities like tennis courts, swimming pools, or fitness centers? Costs: What are the costs associated with living in this community, including homeowners' association fees, golf membership dues, and any other mandatory expenses? Choosing golf course living is about more than just a love for the sport. It's about choosing a lifestyle that encourages health, social opportunities, and a serene living environment. Whether you're raising a family, thinking about retirement, or just seeking a higher quality of life, golf course living in Central Florida could be your perfect choice. Ready to take the next step? Contact me today to explore available properties and make golf course living your new reality.Source https://www.evrealestate.com/

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Orlando Real Estate Market Sees Significant Shifts in May 2024

The Orlando housing market continues to evolve, displaying significant trends that signal both opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers. The May 2024 housing report from the Orlando Regional Realtors Association (ORRA) paints a detailed picture of the current state of the market. Inventory Surge Signals Market Shifts In May 2024, the Orlando real estate market experienced a substantial rise in inventory. With 10,282 homes available, inventory levels surged nearly 100% year-over-year from May 2023. This marks the highest inventory level since September 2016, and the fifth consecutive month of inventory growth. This influx of homes on the market is providing buyers with more options, although it still remains below the six-month supply threshold that signifies a balanced market. Steady Sales Amidst Rising Inventory Despite the increase in available homes, the market remains active. May 2024 saw 2,909 closed sales, reflecting a 5.4% increase from April 2024. However, when compared to May 2023, there was a 7.7% decline in sales. This juxtaposition of rising inventory and steady sales indicates a complex market where homes are still moving quickly, but not at the previous year's pace. Price Trends: Stability and Growth Home prices in Orlando continue to rise, albeit at a moderate pace. The average home price in May 2024 was $482,295, a 5.3% increase from the previous year. The median home price also saw a slight uptick, reaching $385,000, up 1.9% from May 2023. While these price increases may challenge affordability, they also reflect the underlying strength of the Orlando housing market. Mortgage Rates and Affordability Interest rates saw a minor dip in May 2024, recorded at 6.6%, down from 6.9% in April 2024. Compared to May 2023’s rate of 6.62%, this stability in mortgage rates is crucial for maintaining buyer interest in a market with rising home prices. Lower rates can help alleviate some affordability concerns, although the overall impact is nuanced. New Listings and Contracts May 2024 was a busy month for new listings, with 4,521 homes entering the market, a 6.9% increase from April 2024. However, new contracts saw a decline, with only 2,653 new agreements signed, an 11.4% decrease from May 2023. This decline in new contracts suggests a potential slowdown in buyer activity, even as more homes become available. Market Balance and Competition The months of supply in May 2024 stood at 3.53, indicating a more balanced market compared to the extremely tight conditions of the past year. However, with inventory levels still below the six-month mark, the market continues to favor sellers. Homes are spending an average of 54 days on the market, unchanged from the previous month, underscoring the continued competitiveness. Decline in Distressed Sales A positive note for market stability is the significant decrease in distressed property sales. Only 17 distressed homes were sold in May 2024, making up 0.6% of total sales, a 34.6% drop from April 2024. This decline suggests a healthier market with fewer distressed properties influencing overall sales dynamics. Monthly Volume and Market Health The total sales volume for May 2024 reached $1.4 billion, a 7.0% increase from April 2024, but a slight 2.8% decrease from May 2023. This indicates strong transactional activity, even as the market adapts to the new dynamics of increased inventory and steady, though slightly tempered, demand. Conclusion The May 2024 housing report underscores the dynamic nature of the Orlando real estate market. With significant increases in inventory, steady sales, and rising home prices, the market presents a mix of opportunities and challenges. Buyers now have more options but must act quickly in a competitive environment. Sellers benefit from continued price appreciation but face the reality of a market with more choices for buyers. As we move into the summer months, these trends will be crucial to watch, providing insights into the market’s trajectory and the opportunities it holds for all stakeholders.

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The American Dream in Central Florida

Celebrating National Homeownership Month: the American Dream in Central Florida June is here, and it’s a special time for us in Central Florida as we celebrate National Homeownership Month! At Engel & Völkers Clermont Orlando Dr Phillips, we believe owning a home is a big part of the American Dream, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned homeowner, or just dreaming about your future home, this month is all about you. What National Homeownership Month Means Every June, National Homeownership Month reminds us of the importance of owning a home and its impact on our families and communities. It’s a time to celebrate the benefits of homeownership, from building personal wealth to creating stable and vibrant neighborhoods. This month highlights how owning a home can help you achieve financial security and be a part of your American Dream. We also know that buying a home can be challenging. Rising housing costs, limited supply, and economic conditions can make homeownership feel out of reach. At Engel & Völkers Clermont Orlando Dr Phillips, we’re committed to helping you navigate these challenges. Why Homeownership Matters Homeownership is more than just having a place to call your own. It’s about building a foundation for your future, creating a space where memories are made, and contributing to your community. Owning a home offers financial stability, potential tax benefits, and the joy of personalizing and creating a space just for you. Dream Big Maybe you’re currently renting and dreaming about having a place that’s truly yours. Or perhaps you’re living with family and saving up for that down payment. Maybe you’re considering upsizing, downsizing, or investing in a second property. This is the time to dream big! Imagine your ideal home – what does it look like? Where is it located? How do you feel when you walk through the door? Whatever your goals, now is the perfect time to start planning and take steps toward making them a reality. Getting Prepared Once your dream starts to take shape, it's time to get practical. The first step is to have a clear understanding of your finances. Be sure to check your credit score, assess your savings, and maybe speak to a mortgage advisor to understand your borrowing potential. Being prepared is key to making your homeownership journey smooth and enjoyable. Finding the Right Fit This is where the real adventure begins! Partner with a trusted real estate advisor who can help you navigate the Central Florida market, understand what you can afford, and show you homes that match your vision. Your perfect home is out there, and with the right guidance, it’s only a matter of time before you find it. Reflecting on Homeownership Achievements Owning a home is more than just having a place to live; it’s a key to building wealth and equity. For those who have already achieved homeownership, National Homeownership Month is a time to reflect and celebrate. Find gratitude reflecting when you received your keys, the first dinner in your new dining room, or the garden you’ve nurtured. Share your journey with friends and family, and maybe inspire someone else to begin their path to homeownership. Tips for Current Homeowners Maintenance and Upgrades: Regular maintenance can keep your home in top shape, potentially increasing its value. Consider investing in upgrades that enhance your living experience and add long-term value to your property. In Central Florida, upgrading your landscaping can add value over time. Community Involvement: Homeownership often brings a stronger connection to your community. Get involved in local events, support neighborhood initiatives, and build relationships with your neighbors. A strong community adds immeasurable value to your home. Financial Health: Consider your home a significant part of your financial portfolio. Track your mortgage payments, explore refinancing options if rates drop, and stay informed about housing market trends in Central Florida. Your Partners in Homeownership At Engel & Völkers Clermont Orlando Dr Phillips, we are committed to supporting you at every stage of your homeownership journey. From dreaming and planning to buying and celebrating, we're here to offer expert guidance and personalized service. As we celebrate National Homeownership Month - I'd love to talk – whether you're ready to take the next step or want to explore your options. Here's to making your homeownership dreams come true! Happy National Homeownership Month!   Source https://www.evrealestate.com/blog/celebrating-national-homeownership-month-your-path-to-the-american-dream

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