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How One Local Builder is Improving South Tampa October 20, 2011
By Kortney Gentry
 

In an effort to improve South Tampa homes, Tampa Realtor, BG Holmberg has teamed up with Martin Ryan, a 3rd generation spec builder of almost 30 years and founder of M. Ryan Homes.  These two have known each other for nearly 7 years now, however, 2 years ago, they came up with a concept and started a plan that would keep growing families in the area they love.

M Ryan Homes

The concept:

*  All homes will be in the Plant High School district but will vary in elementary schools, giving families more options for younger children
*  Homes will be located in various areas of central South Tampa
*  The average price point varies from the high $400s to $600K
*  4 Bedroom minimum in each home
*  Lot size will vary but will range from 50′ x 80′ to 80′ x 130′
*  All are built following several consumer expectations: hardwood, granite, beautiful cabinetry, stainless steel appliances & double paned windows for energy efficiency.  Many of the homes also feature tankless gas water heaters & gas stoves to reduce the use of electricity.
*  While the homes all lean towards more of a traditional/mission style combination with a square shape & clean lines, there will be 5-6 different floor plans

M Ryan & BG Holmberg Home

The past two years….

BG Holmberg led Ryan to his first lot purchase in September of 2009 and the duo have since collaborated on 17 more lot purchases, 13 home completions (12 of which have already sold) and 3 homes are currently under construction.  Since these are all built to specifications to remain in the realm of the original concept, very few changes are made by the buyers and the homes are not typically listed until near completion.  That doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute if you are looking to purchase one of these beauties; 10 out of the 12 that have sold were under contract before the home was even move-in ready.

M Ryan Interior

What should you be looking for in the future?

Since Ryan oversees all of his projects on his own, he works on a maximum of 5 homes at a time, all of which are exclusively marketed by BG Holmberg via Smith & Associates Real Estate.  The two plan on knocking out (or rather, building up) 8-10 homes per year with an undecided end point or until South Tampa meets all of their specifications.

If you are interested in one of these South Tampa homes, contact BG Holmberg to arrange a meeting.

What do you look for when it comes to purchasing a new home?  Do their specs meet your requirements?

 
 
 
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Davis Islands, It’s Elementary, My Dear. October 10, 2011
By Kortney Gentry
 

At the mouth of the Hillsborough River, you will find one of the most sought after places to build a Tampa home, Davis Island.  While many now know the area for the quaint, pet-friendly business district and the reported future 7 bedroom, 9 bath waterfront home of baseball phenomenon, Derek Jeter, among other celebrities, Davis Island possesses quite the historical back drop.

Davis Island Country Club

In the 1920′s, at the peak of Florida’s land boom, mud was dredged from the bottom of Tampa Bay in order to build two man-made islands atop two small natural islands.  What was once known as “Little Grass Key” and “Big Grass Key” (they were grassy, I would presume) would now be called Davis Islands.  This project was started by Tampa native D.P. Davis (pictured below) who purchased the newly dredged land for a whopping $350K with the intentions to build an elaborate resort community consisting of several hotels, a golf course, airport and swimming pool.  Right as the land boom wound down, Davis sold 306 of the original lots for $1,683,582.  Quite the profit.

D.P. Davis

The story gets interesting surrounding Davis’ alleged death on October 12, 1926.  The last place D.P. Davis was seen was aboard The Majestic, a sister ship to the Titanic and the largest ship in the world at her time (pictured below), en route to Europe.  Some claim he was at a party when he was blown overboard through one of the ships large portholes.  Others claim he was alone with his girlfriend and it couldn’t have happened without force.  Few think he was looking to jump.   And, as a body was never recovered, many of us believe he was a modern day Machiavelli studying the Art of War and looking to free himself of his debts.

The Majestic

Many of the original Mediterranean-syle homes & structures still grace Davis Island and have been nationally deemed as Historical.  As for D.P. Davis, if he isn’t still walking the Islands, unbeknownst to the world, may his soul rest in peace.

(Historical Photos courtesy of www.DavisIslandCivic.com)

 
 
 
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Featured Friday: 636 Geneva Place October 7, 2011
By Alexis Bentivegna
 

Enjoy the best of urban living at 636 Geneva Pl on desirable Davis Island.  This immaculate 3 bedroom, 2 bath bungalow features over 1,300 sqft of amazing details and upgrades; Sit fireside while reading a book from your built in library casings or relax by the pool with friends amidst the lush tropical setting.    Tampa Realtor, Elaine Weiner shared a few more of the 636 Geneva Plluxuries you will enjoy from this fabulous Tampa home for sale.

Q: What distinctive features set this home apart?

A: This stylish 1949 Florida Bungalow is a hidden treasure on Davis Islands, tucked away in a lush Florida-friendly tropical garden setting. From the portico entry to the stone circular drive-  this is a wonderful waterfront pool home situated on a wide curve of Currituck Channel leading directly to the bay.

Q: Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?

A: The home’s completely renovated and fully equipped kitchen and up to date baths allow you to move right into luxury.  The living room and den feature walls of detailed built-ins with a beautiful rustic finished fireplace.

Q: What amazing views will ho be able to enjoy?636 Geneva

A: The contemporary glass french doors across the back of the Tampa home open to sparkling deep free form pool surrounded by travertine. Relax and enjoy the view overlooking the waterfront in your tropical garden setting.

Q: Anything else you’d like to tell us about this home?

A: The Davis Island home features a detached 8×16 “boathouse” studio with wood interior and vaulted beamed ceiling providing private respite. The 29.8 x 11.8 finished dock with davits is ideal for boating and relaxing. This urban jewel is most affordable Davis Islands waterfront at $520k.

This fabulous property at 636 Geneva Pl, Tampa, FL 33606 is nothing short of perfection.  Contact Elaine today to arrange a showing!

About Elaine:

Tampa Realtor Elaine WeinerWith almost 40 years of local real estate experience, Tampa realtor, Elaine Weiner has gained a vast knowledge of the area she calls home.  Priding herself on her unparalleled marketing techniques and personalized service, Elaine is the top choice for any buyer or seller.

 
 
 
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Feature Friday: 3101 West Fair Oaks Avenue September 30, 2011
By Alexis Bentivegna
 

Today’s featured property is a beautiful Spanish Mediterranean home located at 3101 W Fair Oaks Ave.  This spacious 3,651 sqft South Tampa home features 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a 2 car garage and sits just one block away from Tampa‘s infamous Bayshore Boulevard.  St. Pete Realtors Debbie Newman & Scott Allen shared a few details on this beautiful house:

South Tampa HomeQ: What distinctive features set this home apart?

A: The expansive great room and kitchen makes this the ideal home for entertaining and cooking.  Custom surround sound acoustics and scene lighting will make you feel like you’re in a movie theater on family movie night!

Q: Can you describe the architectural style of the home?

A: This Tampa home is a classic Mediterranean style perfected by builder Devonshire Custom Homes.  Enjoy of clean lines, open spaces and lot’s of light.

Q: What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?3101 West Fair Oaks

A: The home is located in the heart of South Tampa, just a block from Bayshore Blvd.  Downtown Tampa is minutes away and a commute to downtown St. Petersburg is under 30 minutes!

Q: Does the community have any amenities we should know about?

A: Grocery shopping, restaurants and the local YMCA are less than 5 minutes away – some restaurants within walking distance!  The annual Gasparilla parade, Children’s parade and fireworks show all within quick walking distance.South Tampa Pool Home

Q: Can you tell us a fun fact about the home?

A: This is an ideal home for “man’s best friend”!  The current owners have installed electronic “doggie” doors that are controlled by remote sensor in dog’s collar so they can access the gated side yard on their own!

If you are looking for a family (and pet) friendly home in the Bay area, look no further than 3101 W Fair Oaks Ave, Tampa FL 33611. Contact the Newman/Allen Team to take a personal tour!

About The Newman/Allen Team:

St Pete Realtor Debbie NewmanKnown for their integrity, discretion and the complete sell out of Signature Place, one of downtown St. Pete‘s luxury high-rises, St. Pete Realtors Debbie Newman & Scott Allen are quite the dynamic duo.  The two joined St Pete Realtor Scoott Allenforces in 2003 and and have experience working with all sides of the industry from investors and developers to maintaining relationships with past clients and local residents.  Whether you are looking to buy, sell or learn more about the Bay area, The Newman/Allen Team are here to help!

 
 
 
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Introducing Grand Central at Kennedy September 27, 2011
By Kortney Gentry
 

Grand Central at Kennedy

Grand Central at Kennedy is one of Smith & Associates‘ premier high rises in downtown Tampa located on Kennedy Boulevard between Meridian Avenue and Channelside Drive.  Homeowners can enjoy prime urban living (without the out of this world price tag that normally accompanies) while still feeling right at home.

Some of the luxury amenities Grand Central has to offer are people-friendly pools and expansive sundecks, private cabanas, social greens and outdoor grills, clubhouses, fitness centers, jogging paths, pet Grand Central Locationwalks, 24/7 security, concierge service, and covered parking.   But the great thing about this downtown Tampa location is that internal amenities are not all they have to offer.  Hop on the elevator and within moments, you can enjoy fabulous dining, the Powerhouse Gym, a locally owned dry cleaner, and various professional offices.  According to their blog, Grand Central is always “actively pursuing additional retailers and specialty stores slated for future occupancy, including a large-scale grocer.”  So there is more excitement to come!

Amenities and material greatness is not all you will find ant Grand Central at Kennedy.  They are fully equipped with an amazingly knowledgeable team ready to assist you in finding your next Tampa home.  Let’s meet the Grand Central Sales Team:

Dominique Despointes Smith & AssociatesDominique Despointes – After spending five years as the National Sales Manager for Opus Imports, Dominique needed a change. In 2003 he began his career working for The Condo Store selling luxury condos from downtown to the beaches. While working for them, he was the Sales Manager for Several Tarragon Corporation properties all around the Tampa area.  His most recent project Majestic Point Condominiums on Island Estates sold out in four months.

David B. Moyer – David graduated from Saint John Fisher College with Honors.  He joined Smith & Associates Real Estate over 7 years ago, and has closed Dave Moyer Smith & Associatesover 500 homes, including but not limited to, Towers of Channelside, Box Factory, Victory Lofts, Meridian, One Bayshore, Art Center and Christainsted. He explores and constantly broadens his services and experiences through education. He is extremely active in the Downtown Tampa community.

The Grand Central Sales Team is available 7 days a week at 813.226.8735.  These units are selling quickly and have some AMAZING last minute deals going on!  Give them a call or visit http://grandcentralatkennedy.com to see one of these fabulous condos today!

Grand Central Downtown Tampa

 
 
 
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Feature Friday: 814 South Willow Avenue September 16, 2011
By Alexis Bentivegna
 

814 S Willow Avenue is a fabulous 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath traditional home located in desirable Hyde Park.  This 2,796 SF Tampa home for sale features a Master suite with walk-in closet and over-sized tub, an updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances and a detached 3-car garage with a 594 SF apartment above.  Tampa Realtor, Rick Miller shared some insider information with us about this fabulous listing:

814 S Willow AveQ: What distinctive features set this home apart?

A: Built in 1910, this Tampa home for sale is full of architectural touches of the time period. Unique windows, rich woodwork, fireplaces in the living room and study/den, a distinctive staircase, and beautiful wood floors all contribute to the gracious feel of the home.

Q: What are the advantages of the location and the neighborhood?

A: Located in the heart of Hyde Park, the home is within easy walking distance of Bayshore Boulevard, Hyde Park Village, Kate Jackson Park as well as Gorrie Elementary and Wilson Middle School, both highly regarded schools. Commuting is easy to Downtown Tampa, Davis Islands, great shopping, fine restaurants, and the Interstates. Hyde Park is also known for its neighborly friendliness.

Q: Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?814 S Willow Ave Hyde Park

A: A great deal of work has been done to improve this South Tampa home as well as the detached 3 car garage. To mention just a few of the improvements: both have been rewired; bathrooms have been updated; floors downstairs in the house were refinished and upstairs wood floors were newly installed; a lot of structural work was done on the house in 2005 and on the garage in 2007; garage doors were added; and lush landscaping has been planted.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?

A: Even though it was built early in the 20th century, the house lives well in the 21st century. The welcoming front porch, the large living room and dining room all suit today’s Florida lifestyle. The large garage apartment makes for a great bonus guest quarters, home office or extra family room.

If you are looking for your next home in Hyde Park, be sure to check out 814 S Willow Ave, Tampa, FL 33606.  Contact Rick Miller for a private tour of the property.

About Rick Miller:

Tampa Realtor Rick MillerAs a Tampa resident with over 20 years of experience as a full service Realtor, Tampa agent Rick Miller is the right choice whether buying or selling.  He is a relocation specialist and enjoys assisting everyone from first time home buyers to luxury investors.  Tampa Real Estate is not all Rick enjoys.  He is also a tropical gardener and a huge fan of his Alma Mater, the Duke Blue Devils!

 
 
 
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Featured Property: 821 Seddon Cove Way #821 August 29, 2011
By Alexis Bentivegna
 

Today’s featured home for sale is offered by Tampa Realtor Elaine Weiner.  Located in the highly sought-after development of Seddon Cove, 821 Seddon Cove Way #821 is a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath condominium in impeccable condition.  We asked Elaine to share with us some of the features that make this South Tampa treasure such an exceptional value:

Q: What are the advantages of the location & neighborhood?

A: Seddon Cove is a waterfront treasure situated in unique, private, gated downtown Harbour Island.  This community offers a close proximity to all things downtown Tampa, Ybor City, Hyde Park, or Bayshore. Walk or ride a trolley to restaurants, museums, theaters, shopping, public venues.

Q: Does the community have any amenities we should know about?

A: Seddon Cove has a community pool; in addition, winding through the island community are walking trails. Just outside the gate is a private athletic club with swimming and tennis. Along the waterfront are private docks available for boating. And an added bonus is that Harbour Island provides 24 hour security throughout the community.

Q: What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?

A: This Tampa home for sale is on the 3rd floor of an intimate garden apartment building, and on an angle with volume ceilings and 2 expansive terraces. The living room has a very light and airy feel, while the master bedroom and terraces have wonderful western views of Seddon Channel. From the kitchen, guest bedrooms and terrace facing south are views overlooking the pool and treetops in a park-like setting.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about the home?

A: This condominium was built in 1987, and this unit was owned by only 1 family.  This condominium was originally designer finished, and is now well-maintained.  It’s absolutely perfect for a new buyer to redecorate.  The Seddon Cove development is highly sought-after, with only 72 condominiums in 4 intimate buildings on 10 waterfront landscaped acres.

With a great location and amenities galore, this Tampa home for sale will not be available for much longer.  Call Tampa Realtor Elaine Weiner and ask for a personal showing of 821 Seddon Cove Way #821, Tampa, FL 33602 before it’s too late!

About Elaine:

Elaine Weiner offers almost 40 years of diverse real estate experience in the Tampa Bay area.  Catering to the most discriminating buyer or seller in select residential, investment and commercial properties,  Elaine’s unparalleled marketing techniques and professional manner demonstrate the commitment she has to her career and the people she assists.

 
 
 
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Featured Property: 2610 S Dundee Street June 13, 2011
By Alexis Bentivegna
 

Today’s featured home for sale is a beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath waterfront gated home in Tampa.  With a 72′ wide lot featuring its own boat ramp, boat lift, seawall and 2 story boat house, 2610 S Dundee Street is a boat lovers dream!  I sat down with Tampa Realtors Rick Scherer and Kevin Reder to learn more about this fabulous home:

Q: What makes the price of this home so great?

A: The newly reduced price of $799,900 truly reflects the motivation of the Sellers to price this home well under both market and newly appraised value. Since this significant price reduction, activity on the home has significantly increased with several 2nd showings of the property. This home is the lowest priced home in Sunset Park Isles at this square footage, level of amenities, and over sized lot dimensions and is a fantastic waterfront value in this market.

Q: Have there been any recent renovations or upgrades?

A: This 1950′s Tampa home for sale has been meticulously maintained and has had numerous upgrades since the owners purchased this property. The owners replaced the windows with expensive Pella windows, that are not only beautiful, but both energy efficient and boast high ratings for hurricane codes. The barrel tile roof has also recently been replaced providing both peace of mind and a very expensive and attractive finish to the exterior of the home. The kitchen has been completely renovated with dark wooden cabinets, Thermodor commercial grade appliances, rare granites and travertine flooring, wine storage and cooler, and many other high end amenities. the lagoon pool has been refinished in a gorgeous dark pebble tech finish that will last for many years. All of the expensive maintenance items, roof, windows, kitchen have all been upgraded with the very best finishes, adding the the phenomenal value of this home.

Q: What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?

A: This home is situated on a beautiful tree lined street surrounded by multimillion dollar homes. The obvious appeal, of course, is the stunning views of the water, changing throughout the day. The property offers a covered boat lift with a deck on the second story. From this roof deck, shaded by the grand oak canopy, the views of the canal leading out to Tampa Bay are extraordinary.

Q: What are the advantages of the location and the neighborhood?

A: The exact waterfront location of this property leads directly to Tampa Bay, this canal has a nice depth and there are no bridges along the way to prohibit boating to the bay. Sunset Park Isles is one of the most popular waterfront neighborhoods in South Tampa, boasting restaurants and shopping in walking distance, very bike friendly, and one of the best school systems in Tampa.

With a great price, an abundance of upgrades and spectacular views, this Tampa home for sale is truly incredible! Call Rick Scherer and Kevin Reder to schedule a personal tour of 2610 S Dundee Street, Tampa, FL 33629 before it’s off the market!

About Rick and Kevin:

With over 15 years of experience in real estate, Rick Scherer and Kevin Reder specialize in waterfront properties, Tampa luxury homes, vacation homes, second homes, new construction, and residential lots in Tampa Bay.

 
 
 
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Featured Property: 5020 Bayshore Boulevard #101 May 20, 2011
By Alexis Bentivegna
 

Today’s featured home for sale in Tampa is located in Commodore’s Cove.  5020 Bayshore Boulevard #101 is an elegant 2 bedroom, 2 bath condominium with incredible bay and downtown Tampa views! Tampa Realtor Elaine Weiner stopped by for a few minutes to tell us a little more about this South Tampa residence:

Q: What are the advantages of the location and neighborhood?

A: The condominium is a convenient first floor private end unit in Commodores Cove, which is one of only a few actual bayfront properties on Bayshore Boulevard.  You can walk down brick tree-lined streets south to Ballast Point Park and Pier or bicycle north by balustrade along (7+) mile continuous sidewalk by bay.

Q: What amazing views will the new homeowner be able to enjoy?

A: The living/dining room, den, master bedroom and covered porch all overlook expansive park-like setting with community pool nestled in between mature oaks and landscape directly on Hillsborough Bay.  Beyond the seawall and at the end of the sidewalk curves is the downtown cityscape.

Q: Does the community have any amenities we should know about?

A: The entire building has just enjoyed a major face-lift.  Off the inside lobby is a gathering room overlooking community pool and seawall. Remains of original dock are now a peaceful bird sanctuary.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to tell us about the home?

A: The private front door entrance is outside lobby and 2 assigned parking spaces are right outside front door.  This lovely unit, with almost 1,700 square feet, is in an intimate impeccable building of only 34 owners that enjoy a detailed budget with generous reserves.

With a fantastic location and amenities galore, this special Tampa home for sale won’t last long on the market!  Call Elaine Weiner to schedule a personal tour of 5020 Bayshore Boulevard #101, Tampa, FL 33611.

About Elaine:

With over 40 years of diverse real estate experience in the Tampa Bay area, Tampa Realtor Elaine Weiner caters to the most discriminating buyer or seller in select residential, investment and commercial properties.   Whether you are considering buying or selling, Elaine will  deliver results and guarantees communication along the way.

 
 
 
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Featured Property: 5913 Trevors Way May 12, 2011
By Alexis Bentivegna
 

Today’s featured property is a well-maintained 5 bedroom, 4 bath home in the charming Carrillon Estates gated community. We asked Tampa realtor Darcy White to share with us some of the special features that make 5913 Trevors Way such a wonderful home.

Q: What distinctive features set this home apart?

A: This home has space to live! Need separate quarters/playroom, etc.? This home has a bonus room, bath and bedroom on its own.

Q: What are the advantages of the location and neighborhood?

A: This gated community is only minutes to the airport, Pinellas or South Tampa via The Veteran’s Expressway.  This home has the perfect balance of a delightfully quiet neighborhood location, but is only minutes to an energetic shopping area.

Q: What makes the price of this home so great?

A: This 3,700 SF home is beautifully priced.  It is located in an area of well-spaced luxury homes in a the lovely gated community of Carrillon Estates.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to tell us about the home?

A: If storage space is important to you, this property has HUGE closets and a 3 car garage.  It is a collector’s dream, with room to put away items and keep a well-organized home.

This special Tampa home for sale has it all!  Call Darcy White today to schedule a tour of 5913 Trevors Way, Tampa, FL 33625 while it is still available.

About Darcy:

As a fifth generation Tampa resident, Tampa realtor Darcy White is able to show customers the value and history of the area.  Career highlight:  Darcy sold five houses in one weekend – twice!