Tampa Bay FL Real Estate BlogRecently posted or modified blog postshttps://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/Copyright TampaTeamTLC.com2024-02-28T10:29:31-07:00tag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:41579Things to do in Tampa Bay March 2024<a href="https://youtu.be/o9rUEIuwkUI"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/march_things_to_do_thumb.jpg" width="500" height="278" alt="March things to do in Tampa Bay" /></a>
Check out our March things to do in Tampa Bay including the Airfest at MacDill, the sand sculpture festival at Clearwater Beach and the Strawberry Festival in Plant City. Have a fun month!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/strawberry_shortcake.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Florida Strawberry Festival" />
<a href="https://flstrawberryfestival.com/">Florida Strawberry Festival</a>
Feb. 29-March 10, 2024
Fairgrounds, 303 BerryFest Place, Plant City
Celebrate all things strawberry at this fabulous event. Plus rides, shows, food galore and concerts! Strawberry treats include strawberry shortcake, strawberry pizza, , strawberry crepes, strawberry kettle corn and more. Featured headliner concerts include the Oak Ridge Boys, The Beach Boys, Black Eyed Peas, ZZ Top, Jo Dee Messina and Flo Rida. Advance tickets available for purchase.
<a href="https://www.ticketmaster.com/disney-on-ice-presents-frozen-encanto-tickets/artist/2873404?venueId=106710&camefrom=CFC_FELD_WEBSITE&_ga=2.206025939.1518291598.1705947383-958059500.1705947383&_gac=1.86462826.1705947383.Cj0KCQiAwbitBhDIARIsABfFYIKucxM1Rov5Dt7INj9FYSXNliZWLogK6wPl97hUEWVt_hux9DYqDlsaAjTyEALw_wcB">Disney on Ice</a>
March 21-24, 2024
Amalie Arena
Join Disney pals from Encanto and Frozen as well as Mickey, Minnie & Friends at this ice show. Character experiences available for additional cost.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/art.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Hyde Park Art Festival" />
Hyde Park Art Fest
March 23-24, 2024
Hyde Park
The brick-lined streets of historic Hyde Park will come alive with eye-popping art during this colorful street festival. Art made from clay, fiber, glass, ceramic, paint, sculpture, resin and more will be available for purchase.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/air_show.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="MacDill air show" />
<a href="https://www.tampabayairfest.com/" style="font-size: 30px;">Tampa Bay Air Fest</a>
March 29-30, 2024
MacDill AFB, Tampa
A heart-pounding weekend of air performances, including the Thunderbird, and family-friendly activities showcasing all 5 branches of the US military as well as first responders. There will be military displays including aircraft, land vehicles and more. VIP ticket packages are available. The event is free.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/sand_castle%20clearwater.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Sugar Sand Festival Clearwater" />
<a href="https://www.sugarsandfestival.com/">Pier 60 Sugar Sands Festival</a>
March 29- April 14, 2024
The No. 1 sand sculpting festival in Florida is in Clearwater Beach. Sixteen professional sand sculptors work their magic to transform the world-famous sugar sand into breathtaking sculptures. There will also be food vendors, concerts and entertainment. Tickets are $14.2024-02-26T07:30:00-07:002024-02-28T10:29:31-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:42118Apollo Beach manatee viewing centerManatees. The Florida state marine animal. Also known as a sea cow, these gentle giants make their home in Florida waterways.
There’s a special spot in Apollo Beach that welcomes the manatees each winter. And this year has been a doozy. While we haven’t had any extended freezes this year, we’ve had more than 16 nights with lows in 40s. We’ve had 31 days with highs in 60s. That means the Bay waters are cold for our beloved manatees.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/manatee_entrance.jpg" width="500" height="246" alt="Manatee center Apollo Beach" />
Manatees need warm water to survive. So during winter they flock to the Rainbow River, Blue Springs, Homosassa Springs, Weeki Wachee and TECO’s Apollo Beach power plant. Let’s take a look at one of our favorite places to see manatees in Tampa Bay: Tampa Electric's Manatee Viewing Center.
According to the center, when the water temperature of Tampa Bay drops below 68 degrees, the mammals gather in the clean, warm water discharge canal of Tampa Electric's Big Bend Power Station. It’s been recorded that the manatees have gathered in the canal since the early 1970s.
The center attracts thousands of manatees each year with its warm water expelled (safely) from the power plant in Apollo Beach. This year, 2024, the viewing center smashed their old record of manatees hosted at one time with more than 1,100 manatees. Last year was a record-setting year as well with around 850 at one time.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/fwc_wildlife_institute.jpg" width="400" height="500" alt="Apoolo Beach manatee viewing center" />
*Photo from Florida Wildlife Center
The manatee viewing center has been selected as one of the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards for best free attractions in 2023.
The viewing center is located in Apollo Beach and admission and parking are free. Visiting hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day until April 15. The Manatee Viewing Center is at 6990 Dickman Road, Apollo Beach.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/manatees_2.jpg" width="500" height="514" alt="Manatees" />
The manatee viewing center has been selected as one of the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice travel awards for best free attractions in 2023.
The viewing center has several platforms where you can view the manatees (and sometimes dolphins). Visitors can also see and touch cownose rays in the viewing center’s touch tank. There is also a nature trail, butterfly garden, manatee movie, 900-foot-long tidal walk and 50-foot observation tower.
A few fun facts about manatees:
Manatees are native to Florida
They are on the federal endangered species list
Today there are estimated to be over 6,300 manatees in Florida waterways. Back in 1991, there were estimated to be only a little over 1,200.
Manatees often swim in water less than six-feet deep, where underwater vegetation is most abundant
Adult manatees are typically 9-10 feet long from snout to tail and weigh around 1,000 pounds
A manatee can move each side of its lip pads independently. This flexibility allows the manatee to "grab" aquatic plants and draw them into its mouth
Manatees do not have eyelids or eyelashes. Their eye muscles close in a circular motion, much like an aperture on a camera
Manatees can hear very well despite the absence of external ear lobes
2024-02-21T12:29:01-07:002024-02-26T09:51:32-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:39928Top 5 questions from buyersAnswers to 5 common questions we get from buyers
It’s exciting — and a little scary — to think about buying a house. Whether it's your first house or your 5th, every experience will be a little different. We have the answers to these 5 questions buyers routinely ask us. Team TLC is dedicated to helping you navigate the home buying process from start to finish. Reach out so we can help you.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Lakeview.jpg" width="450" height="253" alt="Lake view" />
1. What is the first step in buying a home?
The absolute first step is to get approved for a mortgage. Without being approved for a mortgage it will be quite difficult, if not impossible, to purchase a new home. Not only will most sellers not accept an offer without a pre-approval but you won't know how much money you have to spend. We have partnered with several reputable mortgage advisor in Tampa Bay and we would love to connect you to start the process.
2. Should I sell my current property before buying a new one?
This is a tricky question, and the answer primarily depends on one’s funds and ability to find temporary housing. If you need more equity to purchase a new home, then it is best to sell one’s current home before purchasing your next one. The market, and some sellers, is open to contingencies again (your home sells then the deal as a buyer goes through).
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/outdoor%20living%20space.png" width="450" height="301" alt="Outdoor living space" />
3. How many houses should I view before purchasing one?
The number of houses you look at can depend greatly. However, it is much easier today to connect with your clients virtually. You can now see houses online by taking virtual tours or seeing detailed photographs. So, you can help your client by giving them access to your online systems so that they can view as many properties as they desire. Once a list is narrowed down, you can visit properties with them or on their behalf.
4. What is a mortgage and how does it work?
A mortgage is a type of loan to finance a property. The majority of people are not wealthy enough to purchase a house in total. Thus, a mortgage serves as a secure loan that comes with a fixed interest rate and gets paid off over 15 or 30 years. If need be, your client can refinance their mortgage and payments in the future.
5. What is escrow and how does earnest money work?
An escrow is a term that refers to a neutral third party hired to handle the exchange of money, property transaction, and related documents. The escrow holds the money and documents in a trust until all terms and conditions of the sale are satisfied. When depositing the earnest money, it is wise to use an escrow account.
Earnest money is similar to a deposit when renting a place. It is made in good faith to demonstrate to the seller that the buyer’s offer is legitimate. As a real estate agent, you should ask your client for the earnest money as a deposit in the form of a check or cash. The amount is usually 1-2% of the selling price and essentially takes the property off the market. The money also gives the buyer extra time to conduct a title search, get an inspection and property appraisal, and financing.2024-02-19T10:27:00-07:002024-02-19T12:58:13-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:41850Top 5 reasons to live in Tampa BayWhy is everybody moving to Tampa Bay? Well it’s no secret: we live in paradise. Tampa has become one of the hottest new places to live over the past few years. According to recent U.S. Census data, Tampa’s population increased more than 19% in the past 10 years. And there are no signs this is slowing down.
Here are five reasons Tampa Bay is seeing so many new residents.:
Weather
We live where others vacation. It's an outdoor playground - all the time. The average temperature here all year round is 73 degrees. Yes we have the hot, sticky summer months but we have those world-class beaches to cool down in. So if you are an outdoor enthusiast there is always something to do here.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/beach_2.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Beach" />
No state income tax
Why would you want to live in New Jersey (up to 10.75%), New York (10.9%), Massachusetts (9%) or the District of Columbia (10.75%) when you have to give so much of your income back to the state? Florida is one of 7 states with no state income tax. That’s right. We pay state and local sales taxes, and property taxes are higher than other states, but we pay no state tax on income.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/pool clean.jpg" width="470" height="394" />
Reasonable real estate
Tampa Bay real estate is reasonably priced. Yes it has gone up. But 2023 ended with a median home price for single family homes of $410,000 in Tampa Bay. The area also has so many real estate options from waterfront condos to resort-style communities to land. And did you know that the Tampa Bay area has one of the hottest markets for rental homes in the nation?
Lifestyle
This relates directly back to the weather. We see an average of 246 days of sunshine every year in Tampa Bay. Compare that to some northern cities that only see sunshine a few days a month for the entire winter season. With our year-round nice weather, an active lifestyle is right outside your door. From world-class beaches to the St. Pete Pier to the Tampa Riverwalk, Fort Desoto and Hillsborough River parks, residents can enjoy the outdoor year-around.
Tampa Bay is also a hotbed of culture, food and sports. We have a large variety of museums, eclectic restaurants and championship sports teams. And again world-class beaches. We live where others vacation so we can enjoy top-rated beaches including Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Siesta Key and Honeymoon Island.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/office.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Job growth" />
Job market
Tampa Bay has a low unemployment rate (3%), which is below the national average. The area is desirable for people looking for job opportunities and growth. The Tampa Bay area also touts a low start-up cost for businesses compared to other cities and growing technology field. And Tampa Bay is home to more than 10 companies that made the Fortune 500 list including Publix, Raymond James Financial, Jabil, Chase, KForce and more.2024-02-12T09:00:00-07:002024-02-12T09:13:48-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36886Monthly markets in Tampa BayIt's our favorite season in Florida: outdoor season. True Floridians know we don't enjoy the outdoors between May and September because of heat, humidity and bugs. Thus this is our time to enjoy our slice of paradise.
While there is always something fun and unique to do in Tampa Bay, there are also events that recur monthly. Many of these are farmers markets and street festivals. Take a look at some of our favorites around Tampa Bay.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
<a href="https://www.fourthfridaytpa.com/">Fourth Friday Tampa</a>
When: 4th Friday monthly beginning at 5pm.
Where: Downtown Tampa
Whether it’s live music, cultural exhibits or unique downtown cocktails, the downtown Tampa arts & culture venues have an exclusive program with new offerings every month. Pickup your free lanyard at The Straz (near SIP) between 5-7:30pm and then explore all downtown Tampa has to offer. There’s live local music, free admission to selected museums and food and drink specials with your FREE lanyard.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/farm_market.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Farmers market" />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CarrollwoodNorthTampaMarket/">Carrollwood Market</a>
When: 2nd Saturday monthly from 10a-2p
Where: Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road
Food trucks, live music, crafts for kids, fresh flowers and produce, and so much more.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SeminoleHeightsSundayMorningMarket">Seminole Heights Sunday Market</a>
When: 2nd Sunday monthly from 12p-4p
Where: 6111 N Central Ave
The Seminole Heights neighborhood’s local farmers market is full of fresh local produce, craft items, tasty desserts and drinks, and more.
<a href="https://waterstreettampa.com/event/the-market-at-water-street-tampa-2" style="font-size: 38px;">Water Street Sunday Market</a>
When: 3rd Sunday monthly from 10a-2p (October through May)
Where: Water Street, downtown Tampa
50+ local food and wellness-focused vendors with an array of fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted, fair-trade, vintage or eco-friendly products. There is also live music, entertainment and public art to enjoy.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/farmers_market.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Farmers market" />
<a href="https://ybormarket.com/">Ybor City Saturday Market</a>
When: Every Saturday from 9a-3p (9a-1p in the summer)
Where: Centennial Park, Ybor City
Ybor City Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor market in the Tampa Bay Area. Centered in Tampa’s Historic District, the market is one of the most popular shopping destinations for locally produced items unique to the Tampa Bay Area. Vendors sell produce, food, coffee, jerky, art, jewelry, plants, flowers, soaps, candles and more.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1287228528359391/1287228565026054?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22page%22%7D]%7D" style="font-size: 38px;">Sunshine Market at Midtown Tampa</a>
When: 4th Saturday monthly from 10a-2p
Where: 3659 Midtown Drive
Shop with local vendors who will sell local produce, food, baked goods, art, jewelry and more. Live music kicks off at 10a on the green. Event is dog friendly.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/food_truck.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Food truck" />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2008499566186436">Mayor’s Food Truck Fiesta</a>
When: 1st Wednesday monthly from 11a-2p
Where: Lykes Gaslight Square Park
Grab lunch and enjoy your meal at one of the tables around the park. Food trucks vary monthly.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/603337417995057/603337427995056/" style="font-size: 38px;">Westshore Sunday Morning Market</a>
When: 4th Sunday monthly from 11a-3p
Where: Westshore Marina District (intersection of Gandy Blvd and Westshore Blvd)
This market features 70+ local vendors selling plants, produce, food, baked goods, art, jewelry, clothing and more. Live music kicks off at 11am. Family, dog and bike friendly.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/westchaselocalemarket/">Westchase Locale Market</a>
When: 2nd Saturday monthly from 10a-3p (closed July and August)
Where: 9520 W Linebaugh Avenue
Shop plants, baked goods, flowers, clothing, handmade jewelry, homemade sauces, pet treats, home decor and more at the Westchase Town Center.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/929983971255543/929984011255539/">Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village</a>
When: 1st Sunday monthly from 10a-3p
Where: 1602 W Snow Avenue
The market features more than 80 local vendors selling produce, handcrafted goods, plants and more. While you shop and stroll, enjoy live music by Gasparilla Music in Village Circle. This event is pet-friendly.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/5843575102369047/">Armature Works Sunday Market</a>
When: 2nd Sunday monthly from 11a-3p
Where: 1910 N Ola Avenue
Featuring a rotating cast of local artists and makers selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, wood-work, gifts and more in the Gathering space at Armature Works.
PINELLAS COUNTY
<a href="https://stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk">Second Saturday Art Walk</a>
When: 2nd Saturday monthly, 5-9 p.m.
Where: 2955 Central Ave. in St. Pete
St. Pete’s art districts come together as one arts destination with many venues hosting the opening night of their latest exhibit. A branded white trolley will also be moving art enthusiasts around to over 40 ArtWalk venues from 5 - 9pm. There is only one trolley so wait times can be long.
<a href="https://www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=21817" style="font-size: 30px;">Safety Harbor Third Friday</a>
When: 3rd Friday monthly from 6-10pm
Where: Main Street, Safety Harbor
Safety Harbor closes down Main Street with live music, arts & crafts vendor, food vendors and street entertainment plus shopping, dining and more. There are different musical themes each month from jazz to calypso and everything in between. Most restaurants and shops on Main Street stay open late for this event.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/craft_markets.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Crafts at market" />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/coreyavemarketonstpetebeach/">Corey Avenue Sunday Market</a>
When: Sundays monthly from 9a-1p (June-October); 10a-2p the rest of the year
Where: Corey Avenue between Boca Ciega Avenue and Gulf Boulevard in St. Pete Beach
More than 80 vendors gather along Corey Avenue on St. Pete Beach to sell the best coffee, organic fruit and veggies, pastries, local crafts, live music and more.
PASCO COUNTY
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/294906939506899/294906972840229/">Fresh Market at Wiregrass</a>
When: 1st and 3rd Saturday monthly from 10a-2p
Where: 28211 Paseo Dr, Wesley Chapel
Shop for fresh produce, hand crafts, handmade candles, natural soaps, sauces, fresh bread, art work, furniture, jewelry and lunch bites.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/425948864221684/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tasty Tuesdays Community Market</a>
When: Tuesdays from 10a-1p
Where: New Port Richey Public Library, 5939 Main Street, New Port Richey
Organic produce, breads, treats and artisan creations are for sale.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/jewelry_market.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Jewelry at market" />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/trinityfarmersmarket" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trinity Farmer’s Market </a>
When: 1st Saturday monthly from 9a-1p
Where: Trinity Commons, 1540 Little Road, Trinity
Shop unique offerings of fresh produce, plants, local foods, artisan crafts and jewelry, farm-fresh products, bread, and more.2024-02-05T10:00:00-07:002024-02-06T08:24:53-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:41577February things to do in Tampa BayAnother month of beautiful weather brings lots of fun activities to Tampa Bay. Check out our recommendations for things to do in February in Tampa Bay.
Concerts in Tampa Bay
With so many amazing venues, there is bound to be a concert you want to attend. Here are some this month:
Feb 2 and 4 Drake at Amalie Arena
Feb 10 Willie Nelson at The Sound
Feb 16 Rod Stewart at Seminole Hard Rock
Feb. 24 Billy Joel and Sting at Raymond James Stadium
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/parade%20ybor.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Parade in Ybor City" />
<a href="https://krewesantyago.org/knight-parade" style="font-size: 30px;">Sant’yago Knight Parade</a>
Feb. 11, 2024 at 7pm
7th Avenue in Ybor City
The Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago host a parade with a kaleidoscope of color, celebratory music, floats, costumes and of course beads! The parade is a celebration of Tampa’s long Latin heritage and civic pride.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/monster_trucks.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Monster Jam Tampa" />
<a href="https://www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/tampa-fl/feb-10-2024-feb-11-2024">Monster Jam</a>
Feb 10-11, 2024
Raymond James Stadium
Grab your headphones for the most action-packed motorsports event on four wheels. At the event, you Witness world-class driver athletes and the most recognizable trucks tear up the dirt and compete in intense competitions of speed and skill. Scheduled competitors include Grave Digger, Megalodon, El Toro Loco and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/florida_state_fair%20rides.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Florida State Fair rides" />
<a href="https://floridastatefair.com/" style="font-size: 30px;">Florida State Fair</a>
Feb. 8-19, 2024
Florida State Fairgrounds
Rides, shows and food galore! It’s time for the Florida State Fair. This year’s activities feature a foam zone, circus, pig racing, lawn mower races and more. And don’t forget the food: bacon waffle cheeseburger, pop rock pickles, lemonade funnel cake, banana cream pie nachos, fried spam grilled cheese and more! Advance tickets available for purchase.
<a href="https://gasparillamusic.com/tickets/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAwbitBhDIARIsABfFYIKQ4nDaLzfVbb2qANRrpz0A08U3Bjx820wmJRRu8mfuN1mN55nSZZEaAiuFEALw_wcB">Gasparilla Music Festival</a>
Feb. 16-18
Julian B Lane Park, Tampa
Celebrate music in its many forms at this music festival along the beautiful Hillsborough River. More than 40 bands will perform including Young the Giant, Louis the Child, Big Gigantic and more. Advance tickets available for purchase.
<a href="https://rapragerfamilyfarms.com/food-festival/" style="font-size: 30px;">International Food Festival</a>
Feb. 3-4 from 11am to 8pm
Raprager Family Farms, 16907 Boy Scout Road, Odessa
Bring your family to enjoy a weekend of fun activities at Raprager Family Farms International Food Festival! More than 50 food vendors selling a wide variety of international flavors! $5 entry for food festival. Other activities available ($15 food access and farm activities wristband) include hayrides, petting zoo, bounce pillow, hay chute slide, butterfly garden and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/chocolate.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Tampa Bay Chocolate Festival" />
Tampa Bay Chocolate Festival
Feb. 17-18, 2024 11am to 8pm
Gulf View Square Mall, 9409 US-19, Port Richey
Free admission to two-day celebration of everything chocolate. Yummo! Vendors will be selling everything from chocolate truffles to chocolate-covered pretzels and popcorn to dessert pancake tacos. There will also be live entertainment, demonstrations and chocolate-themed activities for all ages. Also, Generation Championship Wrestling presents local wrestlers in The Love of Wrestling 2024. 2024-01-29T10:00:00-07:002024-01-29T13:32:17-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:41580Tampa is a HOT real estate marketTampa is hot. And we’re not just talking about the temperature. Tampa is No. 10 in the hottest real estate markets in 2024 in the U.S. according to Zillow.
Zillow researched 300 major cities with at least 100,000 people. Of all those cities, research conducted by Zillow led them to predict Tampa’s housing boom will continue.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tampa_signs.jpg" width="450" height="178" alt="Tampa, FL" />
In order to predict the strength of each city's housing market, Zillow's researchers considered a number of different factors: one of which was the number of new jobs being created in a city, compared to the number of new home construction projects being approved.
Another factor Zillow weighed was how steady home values are expected to be. With lower interest rates, more lending options and continued residential growth in rural areas like Pasco and Citrus counties, Tampa Bay area growth is expected to remain high. They do also expect the price of housing to increase slightly.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/zillow_24.jpg" width="450" height="249" alt="Zillow top 10 housing markets" />
Zillow's research also led them to conclude that even in hot housing markets, there will still be more demand than supply. So while buyers may find more opportunities for homeownership this year, they can expect homes to sell very quickly.
Here’s your top 10: Buffalo, New York; Cincinnati, Ohio; Columbus, Ohio; Indianapolis, Providence, Rhode Island; Atlanta; Charlotte, North Carolina; Cleveland, Ohio; Orlando; and Tampa.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tampa_bridge.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="Tampa FL" />
So is now a good time to buy a home or put your home on the market? Market data says yes!
For buyers, January is historically one of the slowest months for single-family home sales. That means buyers have more choices and less competition right now. And if you are among the millions “waiting for rates to go down”, don’t! When the rates go down, activity picks up. When activity picks up, inventory goes down. When inventory goes down, prices go up. Waiting for a lower rate could potentially cost you more. And you can always refinance when the rates drop.
We are seeing a lot more buyer interest this January than we did during this same time last year. Buyers are more optimistic and inventory is slowly increasing.
Sellers: see above. Historically we are in a slow season so now is the perfect time to get your home ready for sale. As we move into the new year, buyer activity will pick up. Spring is a prime season for selling as the weather is nice and school is outwinding down. Give us a call today for a FREE home analysis. We’ll go over what the market value is for your home as well as improvements that may be necessary before listing your home.2024-01-22T13:08:47-07:002024-01-23T13:33:35-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:41457File 2023 Florida Homestead ExemptionFlorida homeowners want to save money? If you bought a home in Florida in 2023, listen up! You have until March 1, 2024 to file your homestead exemption. Read on for more details.
What is the homestead exemption?
The Florida homestead exemption is a property tax break for eligible homeowners. It can reduce the taxable value on your primary home by as much as $50,000, saving you up to $750 a year. Additionally, your assessed value cannot increase more than 3 percent annually once you've been granted a homestead exemption.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/florida_homestead_exemption_1_.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="File your Florida Homestead Exemption" />
How do I qualify?
To qualify, you must meet the following requirements as of January 1 of the year in which you are filing:
Be a permanent Florida resident
Own and occupy the property as your permanent residence
Hold title or beneficial interest to the property
Be a U.S. citizen or possess a Permanent Residence Card
How is the Homestead Exemption benefit calculated?
Homes with an assessed value of up to $50,000: $25,000 base exemption
Homes with an assessed value of $75,000 and higher: $50,000 ($25,000 base exemption + $25,000 additional exemption)
There are additional exemptions that apply to certain people:
Additional $500 Exemption: Surviving spouses, individuals who are legally blind, and non-veterans who are totally and permanently disabled
Additional $5,000 Exemption: Veterans with a service-related disability of at least 10% (applies to the surviving spouse who was married to the veteran at death and for 5-years preceding death)
100% Exemptions (No Ad Valorem Taxes): Quadriplegics, veterans who have a service-connected 100% disability and surviving spouses of a veteran who died while on active duty.
When do I filea Florida Homestead Exemption?
Under Florida law, homeowners must file for a homestead exemption by March 1 of the tax year for which the exemption is being requested. So if you bought in 2023 you are now eligible to file now.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/florida_homestead_exemption_2.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="File your Florida Homestead Exemption" />
Why should you file for a homestead exemption?
One of the biggest benefits is the Homestead Exemption can lower your property tax bill on your primary residence in Florida. In fact, the Homestead Exemption lowers your assessed value by as much as $50,000, saving you money.
The Homestead Exemption provides homeowners with several benefits including:
Protection of the family (legal life estate)
Protection of homestead from forced sale
Tax exemption of up to $50,000
Size restriction of the protected homestead is 160 acres outside the city or .5 acre within city
Personal property protection ($1,000 value)
What do I need to file?
Here are the documents you may need for Homestead Exemption*:
Florida Voter’s Registration Card
Florida Driver’s License
Florida Vehicle Registration
Recorded Warranty Deed for the Property
Current Electrical Utility Bill (In your name with service prior to January 1st)
Social Security Number (for all owners)
You must reside in the property as of December 31st and must file for homestead exemption on or before March 1st. Bring all necessary documentation for all owners appearing on the deed. All applicants are required to sign the application for Homestead Exemption. *Check your county for exact paperwork needed.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/florida_homestead_exemption_3.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="File your Florida Homestead Exemption" />
How do I file for homestead exemption?
It’s QUICK, EASY and FREE! You can file for the exemption with the county where your property is located either in person, online or via mail.
Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office
601 E. Kennedy Boulevard, 15th Floor, Tampa, Florida 33602
(813) 272-6100
File online <a href="https://hcpafl.org/E-Filing/Homestead-E-File">here</a>
Pasco County Property Appraiser’s Office
14236 6th St., Ste. 101, Dade City, FL 33523
(352) 521-4433
File online <a href="https://pascopa.com/exemptions/exemptions/homestead/">here</a>
Pinellas County Property Appraiser’s Office
315 Court Street. 2nd Floor, Clearwater, FL 33756
(727) 464-3207
File online <a href="https://www.pcpao.gov/E-File-Homestead-Exemption/Welcome">here</a>
Hernando County Property Appraiser’s Office
201 Howell Avenue, Suite 300, Brooksville, Fl 34601
(352) 754-4190
File online <a href="https://www.hernandopa-fl.us/PAHXApp/">here</a>
Many county property appraisers have multiple offices. Please look online to see if there is a more convenient location for you if you choose to file in person.
*This basic info on what you are going to need to do to file for Homestead Exemption in Florida. Of course always seek legal advice from a Florida real estate attorney if you have questions.
NOTE: If you have previously filed for Homestead Exemption on the property you live in, you don’t need to do it again. Homestead Exemption automatically renews every year on your primary residence.2024-01-15T09:15:42-07:002024-01-15T09:52:09-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:41325Gasparilla 2024: the Ultimate GuideGasparilla 2024: the Ultimate Guide
Yo, Ho, Yo, Ho, a pirate's life for us!
Ahoy Mateys! It's time to get out your eye patch and pirate gear, practice a swagger, limp or squint, and prepare to capture the booty!
Yep, it's Gasparilla time! Nothing says Tampa Bay like the Gasparilla parade. It’s Tampa’s largest party and an event like nowhere else! This annual invasion is something everyone should experience at least once!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/gasparilla1.jpg" width="252" height="400" alt="Jose Gasparilla" />
First, what is Gasparilla? If you aren’t yet a seadog (that's an experienced pirate for you newbies), Gasparilla is a 100-year old Tampa Bay tradition. Every year since 1904, the shores of Tampa Bay come alive with Gasparilla, a legendary pirate-themed event that includes parades, festivals, running events and more.
The festivities kick off with the Gasparilla Invasion, a thrilling spectacle where the pirate ship, Jose Gasparilla, sails into the Bay and the pirate crew demands the Key to the City from Tampa’s mayor. This is celebrated with two massive parades: the family-friendly Children’s Gasparilla Extravaganza on Jan. 20, 2024 and the Gasparilla Invasion on Jan. 27, 2024.
Here are 8 things you need to know about the Gasparilla parades:
Get there early! Many of the streets in downtown Tampa will be closed before and after the parade. Parking can be a nightmare! We recommend taking a ride share downtown or getting dropped off by a friend.
Parking. Do not park on neighborhood streets in the Bayshore area the day before and day of the parade as you will be towed! You can park in one of the downtown garages and take the shuttle but the lines are very long. This year the free trolley pickup is at the Publix on Bayshore and Platt with dropoff at Bay to Bay and Bayshore. The trolley will loop continuously throughout the day before and after the parade, from 11:30 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. This will be very busy and if you are bringing a stroller this is not our recommendation.
<a href="https://www.gasparillatreasures.com/tickets">Reserved seating</a>. Reserved grandstand seating is available on the waterside of Bayshore. Prices begin at $58. Tents and reserving space along the parade route is prohibited. In years past we have seen families spread out blankets along the fences but usually people disregard and will stand right on your blanket. You can bring folding chairs to sit along the fence and this is what we recommend.
Children’s parade. The children’s event on Jan. 20, 2024 is family-friendly and alcohol-free. We find this event just as much fun as the main invasion with slightly less crowds. Either way there will be wall-to-wall people if the weather is nice. The parade is broadcast live on Fox 13.
Food and beverage. There will be food and drinks for sale but the lines will be long. Beer and wine is for sale at the Gasparilla Charity Beer Gardens located throughout the event. You must be 21+ and you must present a valid photo ID. 100% of the net revenue supports local Tampa Bay area charities. Outside food or beverage is NOT permitted. Coolers are also not permitted on the parade route.
Disability accommodations. There is parking for a fee and free parade viewing for disabled patrons is located at the intersection of Ashley Drive and Whiting Street. A disabled vehicle permit is required. Parking for this area is in the Fort Brooke Garage. Parking is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no seats or bleachers in this reserved area and in order to ensure accommodation for as many disabled patrons as possible, the number of guests per disabled patron is limited to three people.
Consider a view from a boat. Docking space in and around downtown Tampa for Gasparilla is extremely limited. Boaters attempting to come ashore along the Bayshore Boulevard balustrade or any other property without a permit are strictly prohibited. Viewing the parade from the Bay is an option although you won’t catch many beads.
Pets. Animals, except service pets, are prohibited at the event.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Childrens-Gasparilla-Parade-Map_2023.jpg" width="400" height="400" alt="Children's Gasparilla parade map" />
<a href="https://gasparillapiratefest.com/childrens/">Children's Gasparilla Parade</a>
Bring your krewe to the family-friendly parade on Jan. 20, 2024. No alcohol allowed but all the fun will be there for the kids. A bike rodeo begins at noon, a preschool stroll at 2pm and the main parade begins at 4pm. The parade is followed by a nighttime air invasion as well as Piratechnic (firework) finale. The event is free but reserved grandstand seating is available.
Children’s event schedule:
12:00p-2:00p - Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Rodeo
12:00p-4:00p - Gasparilla Air Invasion
2:00p-3:00p - Preschooler’s Stroll
4:00p-6:15p - Children's Gasparilla Parade*
6:15p-7:00p - Nighttime Gasparilla Air Invasion
7:00p-7:30p - Piratechnic Finale
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Gasparilla-Pirate-Fest-Map_2023.jpg" width="400" height="410" alt="Gasparilla parade" />
<a href="https://gasparillapiratefest.com/pirate-fest/">Gasparilla Invasion & Parade of Pirates</a>
Picture this: a sea of glittering beads and treasures being tossed into the air as a crew of pirates celebrate their victory over the City of Tampa. As the Captain and his Krewe parade along the 4.5-mile route, you’ll witness approximately 140 units of elaborate floats, Krewes, marching bands, and, of course, the lots of pirates!
11:30a-1:00p - Gasparilla Invasion as the Jose Gasparilla travels through the Bay to the Tampa Convention Center
2:00p–5:30p - The parade begins at Bay to Bay Boulevard and Bayshore Boulevard. It continues along Bayshore Boulevard to Brorein Street, turns east on Brorein Street, then north on Ashley Drive. The parade ends at Cass Street & Ashley Drive.
10:00a-8:00p - | Gasparilla Pirate Fest Stage Performances (live entertainment before and after the parade at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park (at Ashley and Twiggs Street) and MacDill Park (at Ashley and Whiting Street).
Other Gasparilla events:
Gasparilla Music Festival Feb. 16-18, 2024 at Julian B. Lane Park in downtown Tampa
Gasparilla Distance Classic Feb. 14-25, 2024
Festival of the Arts March 2-3, 2024 at Julian B. Lane Park
International Film Festival March 21-24, 20242024-01-08T13:49:04-07:002024-01-08T14:58:47-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:40802New Year's Eve 2023 in Tampa BayWhere did 2023 go? Seems like it just started, yet here we are thinking planning for 2024. Check out a few ways you can celebrate the new year in Tampa Bay - at noon and midnight!
New Year's Eve 2023
Armature Works
Dec. 31, 2023 from 8pm to 1am
1910 N Ola, Tampa
Ring in the New Year at Armature Works with Marshmello! Fireworks display at midnight, the best view in the city of the Tampa Bay skyline and dancing all night long next to the Hillsborough River. Admission is 21+ and tickets start at $150.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/new_years_eve_pier.jpg" width="450" height="377" alt="New Year's Eve at St. Pete Pier" />
St Pete Pier
8pm to 12:30am
600 2nd Ave NE, St. Pete
Ring in the New Year on the St Pete Pier with DJ’s, food trucks, bars and the area’s biggest
fireworks show by the City of St. Petersburg at midnight. Free and open to the public, no tickets necessary.
Busch Gardens
All day Dec. 31, 2023
10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa
Join Busch Gardens for unforgettable fun during the day and fireworks at night. Enjoy the festive activities of Busch Gardens Christmas Town with twinkling lights of every color, holiday shows, specialty dining and fan-favorite thrill rides. Then, ring in the new year with a special fireworks show with a fantastic soundtrack sure to help you celebrate the New Year with cheer.
Noon Year's Eve 2023
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/noonyears.png" width="450" height="450" alt="Noon Year's Eve museum" />
Great Explorations Noon Year's Eve
Dec. 31, 2023 from 10:30a-2p
1925 Fourth St. N, St. Pete
$12 members, $18 non-members
A magical and kid-friendly New Year’s Eve event with joy, laughter and lots of sparkles! Get ready for the most epic confetti drop ever! Watch as the museum comes alive with a cascade of colors at the stroke of noon. Dress to impress in your most dazzling and sparkly outfits! Whether it’s glittery dresses, shiny suits or festive accessories, let your style shine as bright as the New Year.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Noon-Years-Eve.png" width="450" height="580" alt="Skate party for noon year's eve" />
United Skates Noon Year's Eve Skate Party
Dec. 31, 2023 from 11a-1:30p
7510 Paula Drive, Tampa
$15pp
Noon Years Eve Skate Party complete with balloon drop at noon, party favors, games, dancing with characters and more! Admission $15 includes regular skate rental, slice of pizza, small soda and party favors. Special Family 4 NYE Deal $50 for 4 admissions, 4 skate rentals, 1 whole pizza and pitcher of soda when you purchase in advance!
ZooTampa
Noon on Dec. 31, 2023
1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa
Included with zoo admission
Ring in the New Year at ZooTampa at Lowry Park during our New Year Celebration, featuring festive foods, live DJ and kid-friendly activities throughout the day.
Armature Works
Dec. 31, 2023 from 11a-1p
1910 N Ola, Tampa
Free
Midnight is way past your kiddo’s bed time, but that doesn’t mean they should have to miss out on the New Year’s fun. This event features a countdown to noon with a colorful daytime smoke fireworks display, bounce houses, games and kid-friendly performances on the riverfront stage.2023-12-27T08:50:00-07:002023-12-28T14:30:55-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:40056Land O Lakes neighborhoodsNestled north of Tampa and 25 miles east of the Gulf, Land O Lakes is a rapidly growing suburb in Pasco County. With its beautiful parks, sparkling lakes and scenic landscapes, Land O Lakes has a little something for everyone from gated communities to golf courses to resort-style amenities. Let's dive in and uncover the scoop of Land O Lakes neighbohoods.
Considering a move to Land O Lakes? Let us help with descriptions and info on the neighborhoods in Land O Lakes FL. It's our backyard after all. *Note: Please check school boundaries as it changes.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/community-guide/land-o-lakes-fl-where-to-live-eat-play/">Land O Lakes community guide</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/alsace/">Alsace </a>
Gated, one of Florida’s first green community
Located off Hale Road
20 homes ranging from 2000SF to 4000SF
3-5 bedrooms
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is approximately 40 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/Angeline%20Trails.jpg" width="400" height="204" alt="Angeline trails" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Angeline trails" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/angeline/">Angeline</a>
Master-planned community of townhouses including one area exclusively for 55+
Located off SR52 between the Suncoast Parkway and US41 (Land O Lakes Blvd)
Community will eventually feature a lagoon, 130+ acre regional park and a STREAM middle and high school
Commute to downtown Tampa via Suncoast toll road is approximately 45 minutes
Schools: Oakstead Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://youtu.be/Dw9dMEImKRo">Angeline neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/asbel-creek-homes-for-sale/">Asbel Creek & Estates </a>
Off US41 just south of SR52
Conner Preserve nature area and Advent Health Connerton are within 10 minutes drive
Community playground, dog park, playground and nature trails
3-4 bedroom floor plans range from 1200SF to 3000SF
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is approximately 50 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://youtu.be/lEA5uWxgNlI">Asbel Creek & Estates neighborhood tour</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/ballantraeclub.jpg" width="505" height="197" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="AI" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/ballantrae-homes-for-sale/">Ballantrae </a>
Master-planned community of 1,000 homes
Townhomes and single-family homes
Community pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, Located off SR54 with easy access to Suncoast Parkway
playground, a volleyball court and clubhouse
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, which is an 8,000 acre regional park that has picnic shelters, hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, camping, and a paved 6.7-mile trail that connects to the 42-mile Suncoast Trail
Commute to downtown Tampa via Suncoast toll road is approximately 40 minutes
Schools: Bexley Elementary, Rushe Middle and Sunlake High
<a href="https://youtu.be/YcA5Vup0aI8">Ballantrae neighborhood tour</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/bexleyplay.jpg" width="400" height="283" alt="Bexley" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Bexley" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/bexley-homes-for-sale/">Bexley </a>
Located off SR54 with easy access to Suncoast Parkway
Single family homes, townhouses and villas
Has its own elementary school and district park
2 resort-style pools, fitness center, café, playgrounds, trails, fitness center, sports fields and dog parks
Commute to downtown Tampa via toll road is approximately 40 minutes
Schools: Bexley Elementary, Rushe Middle and Sunlake High
<a href="https://youtu.be/8BRwNNMoCAU">Bexley neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/nudist-communities/">Caliente </a>
Located off US41 (Land O Lakes Blvd)
Clothing-optional community
Single-family homes, condos, townhouses and villas
Membership required. Community includes pool, clubhouse, spa and restaurant
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/collier-place/">Collier Place </a>
Small, gated community located off Collier Parkway
Many homes have pond views
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 35 minutes
Schools: Lake Myrtle Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/concord_station.jpg" width="400" height="200" alt="Concord Station" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Concord Station" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/concord-station-homes-for-sale/">Concord Station </a>
Located off SR54 with easy access to Suncoast Parkway
Master-planned community
Single family homes from 3-6 bedrooms
Community parks, walking and biking trails, ponds, picnic area, playground, basketball and tennis courts, swimming pool and a clubhouse
Commute to downtown Tampa via Suncoast Parkway or I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Oakstead Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://youtu.be/H9qtgTI0k34">Concord Station neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/connerton-homes-for-sale/">Connerton </a>
Located off US 41 (Land O Lakes Blvd) between Ehren Cutoff and SR52
Multiple villages, some gated
Resort-style community with pool & water park, tennis courts, basketball court, volleyball court, outdoor amphitheater, fitness facility and clubhouse
Neighborhood elementary school within the community
3000+ nature preserve with miles of trails
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_A1C38bwAA">Connerton neighborhood tour</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/del_webb.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="Del Webb amenities" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Del Webb amenities" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/del-webb-bexley/">Del Webb</a>
Located off SR54 near the Suncoast Parkway
Guard gated, 55+ resort-style community
State-of-the art clubhouse, community pools, fitness center, sports courts, walking trails, community garden and dog park
HOA fees include yard maintenance
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
<a href="https://youtu.be/BoEV0Rt5ILE">Del Webb Bexley neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/dupree-lakes-homes-for-sale/">Dupree Lakes</a>
Located off Ehren Cutoff
664 homes, divided into 9 neighborhoods
Community pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, playground and walking trails
3-5 bedroom floorplans
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Pineview Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://youtu.be/I-kuUgrea2Q">Dupree Lakes neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/grand-oaks-homes-for-sale/">Grand Oaks </a>
Located off Wesley Chapel Blvd (old SR 54) near I-75 and I-275
Master-planned community of single-family homes and townhouses
Clubhouse with community swimming pool, fitness center, sports courts and playground
3-4 bedrooms floorplans and many have pond or conservation views
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 30 minutes
Schools: Veterans Elementary, Cypress Creek Middle, Cypress Creek High
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/the_groves.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="The Groves Land O Lakes" data-uw-rm-alt-original="The Groves Land O Lakes" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/55-active-adult-communities-in-tampa-bay/">The Groves</a>
Guard gated 55+ golf course community
Located off US41
Community clubhouse with pool, dog park, fishing pier and walking trails
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
<a href="https://youtu.be/V7RJp2q2YZM">The Groves neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/lake-padgett-estates-homes-for-sale/">Lake Padgett Estates </a>
Located off US41 near Collier Parkway and Bell Lake Road
Waterfront (with ski lakes) and equestrian community
Community dock and boat ramp, playground, tennis courts and stables
Single-family homes and villas
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Lake Myrtle Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/lake-talia-homes-for-sale/">Lake Talia </a>
Small, gated community off Drexel Road
Waterfront and conservation home sites
4 to 6 bedrooms on quarter-acre lots
Community playground, basketball courts and pavilion
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/lakeshore-ranch-homes-for-sale/">LakeShore Ranch </a>
Master-planned, gated community
Located off US41 south of Connerton Blvd
Community pool, fitness center, playground, fishing dock
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 45 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://youtu.be/4HUaprJVfsw">LakeShore Ranch neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/landings-at-bell-lakes-homes-for-sale/">The Landings at Bell Lake</a>
Small, gated community off Bell Lake Road
179 homes in community, most 4 bedrooms
No CDD, low HOA
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 35 minutes
Schools: Sanders Memorial Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/oakstead-homes-for-sale/">Oakstead </a>
Located off SR 54, between US41 and the Suncoast Parkway
Master-planned community with 1,200 single-family homes and villas
Clubhouse, community pool, fitness center, sports courts & fields, playground and nature trail
Elementary school within the community
Commute to downtown Tampa via Suncoast Parkway is 40 minutes
Schools: Oakstead Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://youtu.be/nLmp2pYriRY">Oakstead neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/pasco-sunset-lakes/">Pasco Sunset Lakes </a>
Small waterfront, gated community of custom-built homes
Located off US41 near Morgan Road
5 bedroom homes, many with private pools
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 35 minutes
Schools: Oakstead Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/pine-glen-homes-for-sale/">Pine Glen </a>
Gated community located off SR54 and US 41
Small community near parks and elementary school
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/plantation_palms.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Plantation Palms golf course" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Plantation Palms golf course" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/plantation-palms-homes-for-sale/">Plantation Palms</a>
One of Land O Lakes's golf course communities
Gated community located off Collier Parkway with easy access to interstates
Community has lighted driving range, mini-golf course and public restaurant
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Pineview Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://youtu.be/Q0NKbOAIyvs">Plantation Palms neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/preserve-at-lake-thomas/">Preserve at Lake Thomas </a>
Located off US41 near Ehren Cutoff
Small, gated community with boardwalk to lake
3-6 bedroom floorplans, many with pools
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Pineview Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://youtu.be/mCv1xO6VXLs">Lake Thomas neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/sable-ridge-homes-for-sale">Sable Ridge</a>
Divided into several communities, some gated
Located off Collier Parkway close to SR 54 and interstates
Close to Land O Lakes library and rec center
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 35 minutes
Schools: Pineview Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/stagecoach-homes-for-sale/">Stagecoach</a>
Located off Wesley Chapel Blvd (old SR 54) near interstates
Single-family and townhomes
Community pool, fitness center, sports courts and walking trails
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 30 minutes
Schools: Denham Oaks Elementary, Cypress Creek Middle, Cypress Creek High
<a href="https://youtu.be/buUg8WK8pjA">Stagecoach neighborhood tour</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/stonegate.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="Stonegate" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Stonegate" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/stonegate-homes-for-sale/">Stonegate </a>
Located off SR 54 near US 41 (Land O Lakes Blvd)
Gated, master-planned community
Clubhouse, pool, fitness facility, trails, fishing dock and playground
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 30 minutes
Schools: Oakstead Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/suncoast-lakes/">Suncoast Lakes </a>
Located near the Suncoast Parkway off SR52
Access to the Suncoast Trail
Community park, tennis/basketball courts, pool, clubhouse and more
Commute to downtown Tampa via the Suncoast Parkway is 45 minutes
Schools: Mary Giella Elementary, Crews Lake Middle, Hudson High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/suncoast-meadows-homes-for-sale/">Suncoast Meadows</a>
Located off SR 54 near the Suncoast Parkway
Small, well-established community
Commute to downtown Tampa via Suncoast Parkway is 30 minutes
Schools: Bexley Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/suncoast-pointe-homes-for-sale/">Suncoast Pointe</a>
Located off SR54 near the Suncoast Parkway
Small community
Commute to downtown Tampa via Suncoast Parkway is 30 minutes
Schools: Bexley Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/terra_bella%20ariel.jpg" width="400" height="241" alt="Terra Bella Land O Lakes" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Terra Bella Land O Lakes" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/terra-bella-homes-for-sale/">Terra Bella</a>
Located off SR54 near interstates and Tampa Premium Outlets
Easy access to I-75 and I-275
Community pool and playground
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 30 minutes
Schools: Denham Oaks Elementary, Cypress Creek Middle, Cypress Creek High
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL7qRG8FJ3I">Terra Bella neighborhood tour</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/twin-lakes/">Twin Lakes</a>
Small deed-restricted community located off SR 54
Close to interstates and shopping
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 35 minutes
Schools: Denham Oaks Elementary, Cypress Creek Middle, Cypress Creek High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/tierra-del-sol/">Tierra Del Sol </a>
Located off US41 (Land O Lakes Blvd) near Connerton Blvd
4-5 bedroom homes in well-established community
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/valencia-gardens-homes-for-sale/">Valencia Gardens</a>
Located off Collier Parkway near Land O Lakes library and rec center
Gated community with easy access to shopping and interstates
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 30 minutes
Schools: Lake Myrtle Elementary, Rushe Middle, Sunlake High
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userFiles/2020/image/wlp.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Wilderness Lake Preserve lodge" data-uw-rm-alt-original="Wilderness Lake Preserve lodge" data-uw-rm-alt="ALT" />
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/land-o-lakes/wilderness-lake-preserve/">Wilderness Lake Preserve</a>
Located off US41 (Land O Lakes Blvd)
Distinct neighborhoods, some gated
Resort-style community with lodge, pools, dock, fitness center, sports courts and nature center
3-6 bedroom floorplans some with waterfront
Commute to downtown Tampa via I-275 is 40 minutes
Schools: Connerton Elementary, Pineview Middle, LOL High
<a href="https://youtu.be/Xsci76RogTE">Wilderness Lake Preserve neighborhood tour</a>
2023-12-11T07:30:00-07:002023-12-11T08:13:00-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:39926Date the rate, marry the houseEverything is getting more expensive. Milk and bread, clothing and housing. So what is the state of the housing market right now in Tampa Bay and what do we expect moving into 2024?
First and foremost, the likelihood of a housing market crash, a rapid drop in home prices due to lessening demand, remains low. Most mortgage experts agree that today’s homeowners have much more equity in their homes compared to the 2008 financial crisis and that is evidenced by higher credit scores.
But home prices continue to rise in the Tampa Bay area. Mortgage rates continue to rise and this is a big factor for buyer affordability. So it is still a tough market for buyers.
We recommend: date the rate, marry the house.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/buy_a_house_1.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Buying a house" />
But what does that really mean? Essentially, it’s the idea that when you buy a house in today’s market, you focus on finding the perfect fit — a home you love and want to tie yourself to for the long haul (like a marriage). But your rate? That’s something you approach as only temporary — someone you’d date but never really commit to. Once rates fall, you refinance and end “dating” that initial rate.
So what should you do if you are interested in buying? If you can afford to buy now with the current rate, do. And refinance when the rates drop. When the rates drop, the market will be saturated with buyers who waited so competition will be stiff. Buy now and adjust the rate when it drops.
But remember to make sure your payment is one you can comfortably afford for the foreseeable future (regardless of whether the rate changes). And make sure you get the best price available for the home you want.
That’s where we come in. We have more than 30 years experience working with buyers in the Tampa Bay market. We have helped thousands of buyers. And we would be honored to help you. We can put you in touch with one of our preferred lenders to get you pre-approved for a mortgage. And they can tell you finance programs that may be available to you.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/buy_a_house_in_tampa.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Buy a house" />
Rising interest rates
The national average 30-year mortgage rate rose for the sixth week in a row to 7.63% in the third week of October, according to Freddie Mac. That’s the highest it has been in 22 years. Given rising interest rates it’s no wonder existing home sales have slowed. In fact home sales have slipped in all four major US regions according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
Nonetheless, the housing market remains competitive for potential buyers.
With many current homeowners locked in at a low interest rate and unmotivated to sell, buyer demand is greater than current inventory.
The Fed policymakers stated in September that they foresee interest rates staying at this rate for a “longer period of time.” So what does that mean for you as a home buyer? Bottom line: If you buy now and the rates drop, you can refinance. If the rates continue to rise through 2024 you won’t be looking at a better rate or more inventory. So you might lose your opportunity to buy within your budget.
Many mortgage experts predict a return to a more “normal” upper 4% to lower 5% range over time. But not in 2023. And possibly not in 2024. So it could still be more than a year until we see those lower interest rates. And when they fall the buyer pool will grow.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/connerton.JPG" width="400" height="194" alt="Buy a house" />
Housing inventory
When will we see inventory – available housing – increase? Existing housing remains at near historic lows—especially entry-level priced homes —so demand and higher home prices remain. And new home construction, which had been helping pick up some of the inventory slack, slowed in recent months. Inventory is almost 46% below the historical average dating back the last 20 years. And that isn’t expected to change.
Currently there is about a 3.3-month supply of existing homes at the current sales pace. Many experts say a balanced housing market has 4-6months of inventory. So availability just isn’t there.
But when rates drop and inventory starts to rise, it will make the market much more competitive for home buyers. Fannie Mae reported in August that 82% of buyers reported putting home-buying plans on hold. That doesn’t mean they don’t want to buy. It just means they are waiting. And when they jump, the competition will increase.
An individual’s total housing costs should be at or below 28% of their gross income. But the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta says owning a median-priced home right now requires more than 30% of annual income. For context, a homeowner living in Tampa during the second quarter of 2023 needed to earn at least $99,600 to afford monthly housing payments, up from $52,600 just three years ago.
And first-time homebuyers are the hardest hit in the current market. For example, first-time homebuyers looking for a starter home will need to earn about $64,500 a year—that’s 13% more than a year ago, according to a Redfin report. A typical starter home hit an all-time high of $243,000 in June.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/home_buyer.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Buy a house" />
Home values
Florida home values have risen by about 80% over the past 5 years and a positive trend is forecasted for the next 5 years. So it’s no surprise that Zillow ranked Tampa as the top real estate market in the United States in 2022. Looking ahead, the Florida housing market is poised for further growth in 2024. Zillow data indicates that several Florida metro areas – including Tampa - are expected to experience substantial home price growth by July 2024.
And rent continues to rise as well. In fact the average rent is now $2,073, an increase of 32.38 percent from one year ago. So if prices are increasing across the board, doesn’t it make sense to buy now before prices increase more? And as your equity rises, and the rates slow or fall, you will find yourself in a great position to refinance. Again, date the rate. Marry the house.2023-11-20T10:04:00-07:002023-11-20T11:48:05-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:39927Top 5 questions from sellers5 common questions we get from sellers
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/sold_2.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="House sold" />
1. How should I prepare my house before selling it?
First impressions matter. A LOT. Anyone walking through a house will be looking for things they don’t like or ways to negotiate down on the price. Make sure that the HVAC, plumbing and electrical system all work properly. Each room should look clean and decluttered. A fresh coat of pain, clean floors, updated cabinet hardware can go a long way to making a great impression.
2. Should I get a home inspection?
Getting a pre-sale home inspected is never a bad idea. It will point out potential problems that you can fix before the home is listed. Most homebuyers will get their own inspection but you'll have a step up if you've fixed issues like a leaky faucet or old roof.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/sold_in_tampa.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Sold house" />
3. How long will it take to sell my home?
Once the house is on the market, it may take anywhere from 4-6 weeks to sell. However, if the market is fairly hot, a seller could see their house off the market within a week. On the flip side, if there is a lull in the market or issues arise such as negotiation or house conditions, then the property can sit on the market for months. Pricing it right from the beginning will help get potential buyers looking at your home. We'll provide a comprehensive market analysis and give you our expert opinion on what your home should sell for.
4. What is the selling price of my home?
We will discuss this with you and show you comparables on the market. The selling price of a house fluctuates depending on multiple factors. The most common ones are the neighborhood and what similar-sized houses are currently selling for. Also, look at the age and condition. Do major repairs need to be done? If so, that might lower the value. And again, the market matters. Like everything else, home prices vary depending on supply and demand.
5. Are real estate prices negotiable?
Yes, almost everything in real estate is negotiable. Typically, there is a difference between a home’s list price and how much it actually sells for. The current market’s inventory will determine how much wiggle room there is for negotiation. 2023-11-13T10:30:00-07:002023-11-13T11:41:04-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:40077Holiday Parades and Tree Lightings in Tampa BayIt's pretty unique to Florida ... a holiday boat parade. And it's one of our favorite ways to celebrate the season. Take a look at these fun parades - both on the water and through our communities - around Tampa Bay as well as tree lighting ceremonies to kickoff the holiday season.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/holiday-fun-in-tampa-bay/">Holiday fun in Tampa Bay</a>
PARADES
<a href="https://spongedocks.net/event/tarpon-springs-illuminated-boat-parade/">Tarpon Springs Illuminated Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 1, 2023
Boats will proceed down the Anclote River and into the bayous. The best viewing is from Whitcomb Bayou/Craig Park/Spring Bayou. Boats enter Spring Bayou around 8 pm.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/treasure_island_boat.jpg" width="500" height="376" alt="Treasure Island Boat Parade" />
<a href="https://www.mytreasureisland.org/residents/departments/recreation/holiday_lighted_boat_parade.php">Treasure Island Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 16, 2023
10315 Paradise Blvd, Treasure Island
Festivities begin at the Treasure Bay Golf & Tennis with a DJ, a visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus, interactive entertainers and food/beverage concessions. The parade will begin promptly at 6:20 p.m. just south of the Treasure Island Causeway. The route travels south of Paradise Island, back through the Treasure Island Causeway Bridge at 7 p.m., around the Isles of Palms and Capri, and finishes at John’s Pass at approximately 8:15 p.m
<a href="https://www.dunedinboatclub.org/event-5070099?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=12/19/2023" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.dunedinboatclub.org/event-5070099?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=12/19/2023" target="_blank">Dunedin Lighted Holiday Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 2, 2023 @ 6pm
Decorated boats parade through the Dunedin Marina and Edgewater Park. Santa to arrive by boat for the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree. Staging in the basin area just South of Marker 1 Marina, located on the Dunedin Causeway. The parade will follow the ICW South to the Dunedin/Clearwater border, turn North, and proceed into the City of Dunedin Marina.
<a href="https://mainstreetzephyrhills.org/main-street-events/">Zephyrhills Festival of Lights and Parade</a>
Dec. 2, 2023 @ 7pm
38537 5th Ave, Zephyrhills
Featuring food, entertainment, vendors, and parade! The Festival starts at 4pm and parade begins at 7pm.
<a href="https://www.templeterrace.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=5936&month=12&year=2023&day=11&calType=0">Temple Terrace Winter Wonderland</a>
Dec. 2, 2023@ 5:30pm
407 Woodmont Ave, Temple Terrace
Winter Wonderland activities include: an ice slide, caroling, food trucks and carnival games plus tree lighting at 7pm. The Golf Cart Parade starts at 6 pm from the Family Recreation Complex and ends at Woodmont Park.
<a href="https://madeirabeachfl.gov/festival-of-lights-holiday-boat-parade/">Festival of Lights Holiday Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 9, 2023 @ 6:30pm
Madeira Beach
The parade begins at the American Legion Post 273 at 6:30pm, travels all the finger canals through the city, and ends at John's Pass. Watch the parade from ROC Park or John’s Pass.
<a href="https://www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents/">Santa Parade & Tree Lighting</a>
Nov. 25, 2023, 6:30pm
The Santa Parade begins at Albert Whitted Park and runs along Bayshore Dr. to 5th Ave. NE. The Tree Lighting immediately follows the parade in North Straub Park. Tree Lighting time is based on when the parade ends.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Holiday_Lighted_Boat_Parade_Map_1.png" width="500" height="813" alt="Tampa Boat Parade" />
<a href="https://thetampariverwalk.com/events-news/events/holiday-lighted-boat-parade.html">Tampa’s Holiday Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 23, 2023 @ 6pm
Hillsborough River
The parade begins at the southern tip of Davis Islands, travels through the Convention Center basin and up to the Heights where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf.
<a href="https://www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/calendar.aspx?EID=21927">Safety Harbor Holiday Parade</a>
Dec. 2, 2023 @ 10am
Main Street, Safety Harbor
Floats, old fashioned cars, community groups and Santa are just a few of the highlights.
<a href="https://www.sail-tss.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=109032&item_id=2089713" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.sail-tss.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=109032&item_id=2089713" target="_blank">Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 9, 2023 @6pm
1250 Apollo Beach Blvd, Apollo Beach.
The parade will begin at dusk near marker 12 in the south basin of Apollo Beach. Charity event sponsored by the Tampa Sailing Squadron.
<a href="https://clearwateryachtclub.org/boat-parade/" data-type="URL" data-id="https://clearwateryachtclub.org/boat-parade/" target="_blank">Clearwater Holiday Lighted Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 9 2023 @ 6pm
Beginning in Mandalay Channel at 6 p.m., boats travel along the inlets of Island Estates before going under the Memorial Causeway Bridge and finishing at the Clearwater Yacht Club, 830 Bayway Blvd. Parade to pass Coachman Park around 8:30 p.m. Free and family-friendly!
<a class="rank-math-link" href="https://www.sailbcyc.org/ChristmasBoatParade" target="_blank">Boca Ciega Yacht Club’s Holiday Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 9, 2023 @ 6pm
Parade starts at the Gulfport Municipal Marina and pass by the Clam Bayou Nature Park and Osgood Point, on our way out into the bay, heading to Gulfport's Williams Pier and the Gulfport Casino before passing by the Gulfport beach. We then make our way through the communities of Town Shores, Pelican Bay, Skimmers Point, Bayview Circle, past Kipps Colony, near the Pasadena Yacht & Country Club (please note, that due to the Marina, we can only get halfway down that canal), then along Dolphin Blvd, to the Pasadena Golf Club Estates, across to Isla del Sol.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/redingtonParade-route-map.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="Redington boat parade map" />
<a class="rank-math-link" href="https://www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/event/redington-beach-indian-shores-holiday-boat-parade/5763" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Redington Beach and India</a><a href="https://www.townofredingtonbeach.com/holiday-lighted-boat-parade/" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.townofredingtonbeach.com/holiday-lighted-boat-parade/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">n Shores Holiday Boat Parade</a>
Dec.10, 2023 @ 6pm
From the Tom Stuart Causeway to Caddy’s Pub restaurant in Indian Shores. The parade kicks off at 6 p.m. Here’s a <a href="https://www.townofredingtonbeach.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Parade-route-map.jpg" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.townofredingtonbeach.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Parade-route-map.jpg" target="_blank">map of the parade route</a>.
TREE LIGHTNING
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tree_lighting.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Tree lighting" />
Hyde Park Tree Lighting
Nov. 16, 2023 at 7pm
Sparkman Wharf
Nov. 17, 2023, time TBA
<a href="https://thetampariverwalk.com/events-news/events/holiday-harbour-tree-lighting.html">Holiday Harbor Tree Lighting</a>
Nov. 27, 2023 at 6pm at the Tampa Convention Center & Sail Plaza
Armature Works
Dec. 2, 2023, time TBA
Shops at Wiregrass
Nov. 12, 2023 at 5pm
<a href="https://www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents/">St. Pete Tree Lighting</a>
Nov. 25, 2023 at North Straub Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tree_lighting_fl.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Tree lighting" />
Tampa Tree Lighting
Dec. 2 at 6pm at Curtis Hixon Park
Largo Central Park
Dec. 2, 20232023-11-01T08:32:00-07:002023-12-05T11:55:05-07:00Jenni Boothtag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:40076See the Nutcracker in Tampa BayIt's a timeless tradition during the Christmas season ... the Nutcracker. Here's a look at some of the local performance you can watch to bring joy to your holiday season.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/holiday-fun-in-tampa-bay/">Holiday fun in Tampa Bay</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/nutcracker_ballet.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Nutcracker" />
<a href="https://themahaffey.com/shows-and-events/">Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet</a>
Dec. 30 at the Mahaffey Theater
<a href="https://www.strazcenter.org/events/2324-season/dance/ngb-nutcracker/" style="font-size: 30px;">Next Generations Ballet</a>
Dec. 21-23, 2023 @ The Straz
<a href="https://newtampadancetheatre.com/tampa-nutcracker/">Dance Theatre of Tampa</a>
Dec. 15-17, 2023 @ USF Theatre
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/nutcracker.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Nutcracker" />
<a href="https://www.tampacityballet.org/upcoming">Tampa City Ballet </a>
Dec. 2-3 @ USF Theatre
<a href="https://academyofballetarts.org/about-us/st-petersburg-ballet-company">St. Petersburg Ballet </a>
Dec. 1-3, 2023 @ Palladium Theater
<a href="https://www.tickettailor.com/events/brandonballet/1026591?mc_cid=e94a2007e2&mc_eid=3682ffa457">Brandon Ballet</a>
Dec. 2-3 @ Riverview High2023-11-01T08:26:51-07:002023-12-05T11:55:35-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:40071Holiday fun in Tampa BayIt's the most wonderful time of the year .... Florida winter and the holiday season. Get into the holiday spirit with parades, tree lightings, craft markets, festivals and more around Tampa Bay.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/holiday-parades-and-tree-lightings-in-tampa-bay/">Holiday parades & tree lightings in Tampa Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/see-the-nutcracker-in-tampa-bay/">Nutcracker performances around Tampa Bay</a>
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/christmas_lights_walk_through.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Christmas lights" />
<a href="https://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/tampa-bay-festival-of-lights/">Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village</a>
Nov. 23–Dec. 31, 6-9pm weekdays & 6-10pm weekends
Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
More than 1 million lights along an expanded 2-mile drive featuring hundreds of dazzling light displays. Santa’s Village is packed with holiday-themed rides, a holiday market, visits with Santa, craft stations, Santa’s Barnyard, camel rides, holiday movies and live entertainment and more. $25/per car
<a href="https://buschgardens.com/tampa/events/christmas-town/">Busch Gardens Christmas Town</a>
Nov.11, 2023-Jan. 7, 2024
The park becomes filled with holiday cheer and guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist. Ride the Holly Jolly Express train, view millions of twinkling lights from the top of a roller coaster, visit Santa in his workshop, and spend time with Rudolph and his friends from the classic holiday movie, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Guests can also enjoy festive live shows. Holiday events included with regular day admission.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ice_skating_outdoors.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Ice skating in Florida" />
<a href="https://wintervillagetampa.com/">Winter Village </a>
Nov. 17, 2023-Jan. 1, 2024
Curtis Hixon Park
Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa. The park sparkles with lights and festive holiday decorations. Guests can skate along downtown Tampa’s only outdoor ice rink ($17) while taking in views of the Tampa River Walk. The Shops of Winter Village will feature five boutiques from local markets and the Icicle Craft Kitchen of Winter Village will serve up some seasonal holiday treats.
<a href="https://zootampa.org/events/christmas-in-the-wild/">Christmas in the Wild</a>
Select dates Nov. 25-Dec. 30, 2023
ZooTampa
Christmas in The Wild is back and is bigger, better and brighter than ever! Enjoy the magic of wildlife at night while celebrating the holiday season. The zoo will be transformed into a whimsical wonderland filled with lights, seasonal holiday treats and festive shows. There will be six illuminated zones of lights, two new light shows across the entire manatee circle, and a 30-foot Christmas tree with thousands of dancing lights. Included with regular zoo admission on select nights.
<a href="https://thetampariverwalk.com/events-news/events/holiday-spectacular.html">Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Lights Spectacular</a>
November 2023 to January 2023
Tampa Riverwalk
Take a stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk among the festive holiday lights as the area transforms into a winter wonderland. Highlights include a 35-foot-tall LED lighted Christmas tree that floats in the harbor, a holiday selfie station at the Pirate Water Taxi ticket booth, a floating gingerbread lighted display, and a lighted pine tree forest. Hotels, restaurants, and bars along the Riverwalk will also have festive lighted displays.
<a href="https://www.plantmuseum.com/events/victorian-christmas-stroll">Victorian Christmas Stroll</a>
Dec. 1-Dec. 23, 2023, 10am to 5pm with extended weekend hours
Henry B Plant Museum in Tampa
The Victorian Christmas Stroll is back for it’s 42nd year! Be dazzled by the beautifully decorated rooms, each with a different theme. This year, they will have a display of 40 vintage Santas in honor of 40 years. Take in the beauty of a 14′ Christmas tree and travel back in time to the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. $18 adults, $16 seniors, $12 youth
Christmas Lights at Chick-Fil-A
2023 Dates TBD (Closed Sundays), 6-10pm
6299 W Waters Ave, Tampa
Visit the most festive Chick-Fil-A in Tampa Bay and check out their annual Christmas lights display! Santa will also be there on select dates so be sure to stop by and say hello.
<a href="https://rapragerfamilyfarms.com/christmas/">Old Fashion Country Christmas</a>
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 24-Dec. 23, 2023
Raprager Family Farms, Odessa
Raprager Family Farm is exploding with Christmas cheer! Lights and decorations blanket the farm. Go on a holiday hayride and take a picture inside a giant inflatable snow globe. Check out the lighted gingerbread village, hear stories from Mrs. Claus and pay a visit to Santa and take pictures with him at his workshop. $17.50/pp. Season pass available.
<a href="https://christmaslane.com/">Christmas Lane in Plant City</a>
Select dates Nov. 24-Dec. 24, 2023
Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds, Plant City
Take in the wonder of the 1.5 million lights that adorn 200 Christmas trees from 4 to 40 feet. There will be rides, food, live entertainment, and a kids zone. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph will also be there to celebrate and take festive photos with guests. $10 adults, $8 youth.
<a href="https://www.tampa.gov/special-events-coordination/news-and-events/santa-fest">Tampa Santa Fest & Tree Lighting</a>
Dec. 2
Curtis Hixon Park
Parade begins at 1pm at Morgan Street and Madison Street. Best viewing is along Madison Street. After the parade thru downtown, come by Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park for Santa Fest entertainment and activities 1-4 p.m. Stay for Tampa's Tree Lighting ceremony at 6-6:30 p.m.
<a href="https://thetampariverwalk.com/events-news/events/holiday-lighted-boat-parade.html">Tampa’s Holiday Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 23, 2023, 6pm
Hillsborough River
The parade begins at the southern tip of Davis Islands, travels through the Convention Center basin and up to the Heights where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf.
<a href="https://sparkmanwharf.com/event/winter-wonder-wharf-tree-lighting/">Winter Wonder Wharf</a>
All month long after Nov. 18
Sparkman Wharf
Extravaganza of lights, music, and decorations including a 35-foot Christmas Tree and a colorful tree forest on the lawn. There will be opportunities for photos throughout the area, plus holiday-themed entertainment.
PINELLAS COUNTY
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/christmas_lights.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Holiday lights" />
<a href="https://www.playlargo.com/special_event_detail_T38_R411.php">Holiday Lights & Train Ride</a>
Nov. 23-Dec. 31, 2023, 5-10pm
Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr, Largo
A spectacular holiday light display of more than 2 million dazzling LED lights. Guests can also enjoy a stunning carousel and a seven-story Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the lighted park. Rides are $6 each or 4 for $20. It is free to park and stroll among the sparkly Christmas lights.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/EnchantChristmas.com">Enchant Christmas</a>
Nov. 24 through Dec. 31, 2023
Tropicana Field
Guests wander the World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze in search of the missing magic sleigh bells. There are also craft and food vendors, an ice skating trail, visits with Santa and more.
<a href="https://www.flbgfoundation.org/holidaylights">Holiday Lights in the Gardens</a>
Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 2023, 5:30-9:30p
Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo
The gardens sparkle with one million LED lights that twinkle in a variety of bright colors. Vibrant laser lights and lighted figures are sure to wow guests of all ages. The Children’s Candy Cane Area will provide free kids crafts on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Suggested donation of $10pp. Leashed pets welcome.
<a href="https://www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents/">Snowfest</a>
Dec. 2. 2023, 9a-2p
North Straub Park, St. Pete
Toboggan slides for adults and children, inflatables, arts and crafts tents, food trucks and more. The $5 wristband includes all activities (excluding food).
<a href="https://www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents/">Santa Parade & Tree Lighting</a>
Nov. 25, 2023, 6:30pm
The Santa Parade begins at Albert Whitted Park and runs along Bayshore Dr. to 5th Ave. NE. The Tree Lighting immediately follows the parade in North Straub Park. Tree Lighting time is based on when the parade ends.
<a href="https://spongedocks.net/event/tarpon-springs-illuminated-boat-parade/">Tarpon Springs Illuminated Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 1, 2023
Craig Park, Tarpon Springs
The best viewing is from Whitcomb Bayou/Craig Park/Spring Bayou. Boats enter Spring Bayou around 8 pm.
<a href="https://www.mytreasureisland.org/residents/departments/recreation/holiday_lighted_boat_parade.php">Treasure Island Boat Parade</a>
Dec. 16, 2023
The parade will begin promptly at 6:20 p.m. just south of the Treasure Island Causeway. The route travels south of Paradise Island, back through the Treasure Island Causeway Bridge at 7 p.m., around the Isles of Palms and Capri, and finishes at John’s Pass at approximately 8:15 p.m.
<a href="https://christmasdisplay.org/">The Oakdale Christmas House</a>
Nov. 24, 2023-Jan. 3, 2024
2719 Oakdale Street South, St. Petersburg
Amazing walk through Christmas light experience that is bigger and better than before!A half million twinkling lights which has been ranked as among the world’s best Christmas light displays! Featured on both HGTV and The Today Show. Free to the public.
<a href="https://www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/787/Harbor-Holiday-Nights">Harbor Holiday Nights at Folly Farm </a>
Dec. 14-16, 2023
1562 Dr Martin Luther King Jr St North, Safety Harbor
Enjoy holiday lights, a campfire, children’s activities, a trolley light tour, shopping, crafts, and more! Harbor Holiday Nights is FREE. The Trolley Light Tour has a ticket fee of $5/person.
PASCO COUNTY
<a href="https://www.theshopsatwiregrass.com/event/symphony-in-lights/2145576981">Symphony in Lights at The Shops at Wiregrass</a>
Nov. 11, 2023-Dec. 31, 2023
Experience an array of dancing lights choreographed to music from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Tree lightning on Nov. 12 at 5pm
<a href="https://celebrationoflightsfl.org/" style="font-size: 30px;">Celebration of Lights @ The Concourse</a>
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 24-Dec. 23, 6-9pm
11919 Alric Pottberg Road, Shady Hills
Board the Grand Concourse Railroad Christmas Train ($3) for a festive ride to Safety Town or you can walk the trail to enter Safety Town. Once you are in Safety Town, enjoy a walk through this enchanted miniature town of lights! $25 per vehicle.
<a href="https://www.harvestmoonfl.com/christmas">Christmas Under the Moon</a>
Harvestmoom Fun Farm, Masaryktown
Dates TBA, 6pm-9pm
Head to HarvestMoon Fun Farm for their very first dazzling Christmas light display! You can also take a stroll down Christmas Tree Lane, visit with the animals in the petting farm, sip on some hot chocolate and enjoy other holiday treats. Activities included with admission: Jumping Pillow, Petting Farm, Cow Train, Ball Zone, Hill Slide, Swings, Arts & Crafts, Photo Ops, and a enchanted hay ride. Tickets are $10 per person for ages 3 and up. Kids ages 2 and under are free.2023-11-01T07:43:34-07:002023-12-05T11:56:15-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:40057Land O Lakes schoolsSchools are one of the top considerations when buying a house. Even if you don't currently have kids in school, school zoning is important for resale.
Data from the National Association of Realtors shows that 26% of recent homebuyers are influenced by the quality of their school district and schools when selecting where to live. That percentage jumps to 46% for buyers ages 30 to 39, and by 36% for buyers ages 22 to 29.
So how do schools fare in Land O Lakes? The schools are run by the Pasco County School District and generally the schools are above average. Let's break it down for you:
Land O Lakes elementary schools
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/lol_school.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Bexley elementary in land o lakes" />
Bexley Elementary
4380 Ballantrae Boulevard, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 920
School grades: B (2022), A (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Bexley, Ballantrae
Connerton Elementary
9300 Flourish Drive, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 878
School grades: C (2022), C (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Connerton, Lake Talia, LakeShore Ranch, Wilderness Lake Preserve
Denham Oaks Elementary
1422 Oak Grove Boulevard, Lutz
Enrollment: 699
School grades: B (2022), B (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Stagecoach, Terra Bella
Lake Myrtle Elementary
22844 Weeks Boulevard, Land O' Lakes
Enrollment: 552
School grades: B (2022), A (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Lake Padgett Estates
Oakstead Elementary
19925 Lake Patience Road, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 906
School grades: B (2022), A (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Concord Station, Oakstead, Pasco Sunset Lakes, Stonegate
Pineview Elementary
5333 Parkway Boulevard, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 548
School grades: B (2022), B (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Dupree Lakes, Plantation Palms, Lake Thomas
Sanders Memorial Elementary *STEAM magnet
5126 School Road, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 795
School grades: A (2022), A (2019)
Veterans Elementary
26940 Progress Parkway, Wesley Chapel
Enrollment: 664
School grades: C (2022), B (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Grand Oaks
Land O Lakes middle schools
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/lol_schools_1.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Cypress Creek Middle in land o lakes" />
Cypress Creek Middle
8845 Old Pasco Road, Wesley Chapel
Enrollment: 1546* (combine middle/high)
School grade: B (2022)
Zoned neighborhoods: Grand Oaks, Stagecoach, Terra Bella
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/pineview_middle.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Pineview Land O Lakes" />
Pineview Middle
5334 Parkway Boulevard, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 1114
School grades: B (2022), B (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Connerton, Dupree Lakes, LakeShore Ranch, Lake Thomas, Wilderness Lake Preserve
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/rushe.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Rushe middle land o lakes" />
Rushe Middle
18654 Mentmore Boulevard, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 1335
School grades: A (2022), A (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Ballantrae, Bexley, Concord Station, Lake Padgett Estates, Oakstead, Plantation Palms
High schools
Angeline Academy of Innovation
8916 Angeline School Way, Land O Lakes
*Opened 2023
Cypress Creek High
8701 Old Pasco Road, Wesley Chapel
Enrollment: 1546* (combine middle/high)
School grades: B (2022), B (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Grand Oaks, Stagecoach, Terra Bella
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/land-o-lakes-high-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225" />
Land O Lakes High
20325 Gator Lane, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 1969
School grades: A (2022), A (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Connerton, LakeShore Ranch, Lake Thomas, Wilderness Lake Preserve
Three neighborhoods zoned for <a href="https://youtu.be/hRAqV5Xdeww">LOL High</a>
Sunlake High
3023 Sunlake Boulevard, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 1893
School grades: A (2022), A (2019)
Zoned neighborhoods: Ballantrae, Bexley, Concord Station, Lake Padgett Estates, Oakstead, Plantation Palms, Stonegate
Three neighborhoods zoned for <a href="https://youtu.be/B9iPgNk4FCw">Sunlake High</a>
Land O Lakes charter schools
Countryside Montessori
5852 Ehren Cutoff, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 335
School grades: A (2022), A 2019)
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/lol_schools_1.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Land o lakes schools" />
Imagine School of Land O Lakes
2940 Sunlake Boulevard, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 848
School grades: A (2022), A 2019)
Land O Lakes private schools
Academy of the Lakes
2331 Collier Pkwy, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 429
Center Academy
1520 Land O Lakes Blvd STE D, Lutz
Enrollment: 94
Land O Lakes Christian
5105 School Rd, Land O Lakes
Enrollment: 380
2023-10-31T13:11:04-07:002023-11-06T08:12:14-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:40016Things to do in Tampa Bay | November 2023Things to do in Tampa Bay in November 2023
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/sand_sculpture.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Sand sculpting " />
<a href="https://sandingovationsmasterscup.com/">Sanding Ovations Master Cup 2023</a>
Nov. 16-19, 2023 and Nov. 25-26, 2023
Treasure Island Gulf Front Park
Watch as artists turn piles of sand and buckets of water into “outSANDing” works of art. There will also be a beach food court, beer garden and arts and crafts marketplace. The event is free and open to the public.
Tampa International Food & Arts Festival
Nov. 11-12, 2023
Perry Harvey Park, downtown Tampa
Fresh market, food trucks, craft vendors and more at this downtown Tampa event.
<a href="https://www.bbqlovefest.com/" style="font-size: 30px;">BBQ Love Fest</a>
Nov 18, 2023
Perry Harvey Park, downtown Tampa
Sample from America’s top pitmasters and get a taste of Tampa by trying the many famous BBQ options and grilled samples. There will also be live music.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/beer_festival.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Tampa festival" />
<a href="https://savortheburg.com/" style="font-size: 30px;">Savor the Burg</a>
Nov. 4-5, 2023
Vinoy Waterfront Park, St. Pete
Food, wine and craft beer aficionados, save the date! Enjoy a first-class culinary experience overlooking scenic Tampa Bay. Enjoy fabulous tastings from the area’s most delicious restaurants, ‘boutiquey’ hot-spots and world-class hotels. Taste wines from across the State and across the globe. Enjoy the best local and national craft brews.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/celtic.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Dunedin Celtic festival" />
<a href="https://www.dunedinscottisharts.com/celtic-music-craft-beer-festival/" style="font-size: 30px;">Dunedin Celtic Fest</a>
Nov. 18, 2023 at 10am
Highlander Park, Dunedin
The Dunedin Celtic Music & Craft Beer Festival is an annual event outdoor festival featuring multiple musical acts including local school bands all day! The main stage features regional, national, and international Celtic music artists along with the City of Dunedin Pipe Band. There will also be food and beer vendors.
Safety Harbor Wine Festival
Nov. 4, 2023 at 5pm
Safety Harbor Waterfront Park
One of the longest running wine festivals in Florida, the event features more than 100 retailers selling wine, crafts and more. There will also be live entertainment.
Dunedin Craft Festival
Nov. 18-19, 2023
271 Main Street, Dunedin
Talented artists and crafters from across the country gather to sell their handmade products including ceramics, jewelry, candles, clothing, art and more.2023-10-30T07:00:34-07:002023-12-05T11:54:23-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36229Best picnic spots in Tampa BayTop picnic spots in Tampa Bay
Beautiful weather, waterfront views, amazing sunsets and spectacular parks: sounds like a perfect recipe for a picnic! There are so many amazing spots in Tampa Bay for a picnic, we had a hard time narrowing it down. But we’re sure once you narrow down the location – the Bay, the Hillsborough River, the Gulf – and grab a blanket and picnic basket, you’ll enjoy a leisurely outdoor meal at these epic Tampa Bay picnic spots. Find a spot in the shade and enjoy a feast.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/beach_picnic.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Picnic on the beach" />
Fred Howard Park
1700 Sunset Drive, Tarpon Springs
This is one of our favorite spots in Tampa Bay to enjoy a picnic and the sunset! Stop in Tarpon Springs on your way to fill up your picnic basket with delicious Greek food. Drive to the end of the causeway and lay down your blanket for your little slice of paradise in the sand. If you bring kids with you, hit the playgrounds on your way in. You can also bring your kayak, paddleboard or fishing pole. There are several covered pavilions in the park (most have grills but don’t have a waterfront view). We prefer the sand down by the water and it’s easy to put your blanket under one of the palm trees for some shade. The sunset is amazing here. FYI: there is a $5 daily fee for parking.
Curtis Hixon Park
600 N Ashley Drive, Tampa
The Tampa Riverwalk was named one of the best riverwalks in the United States and the amazing parks are one of the reason. Curtis Hixon Park is one of our favorites. Grab a spot under one of the trees near the playground for a picnic or just relax with a book. There’s also a splash pad so don't forget bathing suits for the kids. If you bring your pup, there is a fenced dog park as well. If you want to pickup food on your way, there are several restaurants close to the park including The Hungry Greek, Butter’s Burgers and Urban Cantina.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/park_picnic.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Picnic at the park" />
Julian B Lane Waterfront Park
1001 North Blvd, Tampa
This is a stunning, relatively new 25-acre park on the west shore of the Hillsborough River by the University of Tampa. This park has several picnic pavilions as well as benches along the river and a “front porch” with tables shaded by large live oaks that make a great picnic spots. The park also houses the boathouse (rents kayaks and paddleboards), a lawn with ampitheater, playgrounds, splash pad, separate large and small dog parks and sports courts. It’s a great spot for a picnic with views of the river and downtown. And lots to keep you busy the rest of the day.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/picnic_pavilion_2.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Picnic pavilion" />
Picnic Island Park
7409 Picnic Island Blvd, Tampa
The name says it all. This gem is hidden down by MacDill Air Force Base. This small park offers several pavilions with tables and grills as well as a disc golf course, sand volleyball court, canoe/kayak launch, boat ramp and pier for fishing, fitness trail, playground and a small sand beach. There’s also a separate, gated dog beach just south of the fishing pier.
Philippe Park
2525 Philippe Pkwy, Safety Harbor
Sweeping views of Old Tampa Bay and plenty of shade from majestic oak trees make this park a great spot for a picnic. There is lots of grassy space under the trees with beautiful water views. There also nearby picnic shelters with grills if sitting on the ground isn’t your thing. There are also two playgrounds, a boat ramp and fishing area.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/picnic_1.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Picnic at the park" />
Rivercrest Park
4802 North Blvd, Seminole Heights
Located along the Hillsborough River in historic Seminole Heights, this is a neighborhood gem. The park has lots of mature trees to find a spot in the shade (including some benches) as there is just one small sheltered picnic pavilion. The park has a wide concrete walking trail as well as a fishing dock, a canoe launch, a playground and fitness stations.
Lettuce Lake Park
6920 E Fletcher Ave, Tampa
This is a huge (240 acres) park located along the Hillsborough River with lots of room to spread out and find a quiet spot for a picnic. There are several picnic shelters with tables as well as abundant green space and shady trees. Nature lovers can enjoy the 3500-foot wooden boardwalk with lush mangrove forests and an observation tower for a birds-eye view of the water surrounding areas. There are also great walking and biking trails, playgrounds and canoe/kayak rentals. FYI: there’s a $2 entrance fee.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/waterfont_picnic.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Waterfront picnic" />
Vinoy Park
Bayshore Drive NE & 5th Ave NE, St. Pete
This is the park for those looking for sensational water views. Located on the downtown waterfront in St. Pete, Vinoy Park has lots of beautifully manicured open green spaces with lots of trees providing shade. There are also benches scattered throughout the park. There is a concrete path through the park for walking, biking or jogging. Our favorite thing is to bring a picnic and sit on the seawall and look for dolphins. If you stay until sunset, the St. Pete skyline and Tampa Bay will light up with breathtaking colors as the sun disappears. BONUS: Nearby is another downtown gem: North Straub Park. With two spectacular Banyan trees, North Straub Park offers a shady, grassy spot with bay views perfect for spreading out your picnic blanket. The Bayside Rec Trail passes through the park and offers a trail for biking or walking along the waterfront.
Honeymoon Island State Park
1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin
The name says it all if you are looking for a romantic picnic spot. Honeymoon Island State Park is on a barrier island off the Dunedin Causeway right on the Gulf of Mexico. This park features four miles of pristine white sand beaches as well as nature trails through tidal flats, pine forests and mangroves. There’s even a 2.5-mile Osprey trail ideal for bird watching. The sand is a great spot to throw down a picnic blanket. And you can even pickup wine and food including burgers, sandwiches and ice cream, at the café. FYI: Alcohol is only permitted in the vicinity of the cafes. Parking is $8.
Edgewater Park
51 Main Street, Dunedin
This is one of our favorite small parks and is located on the water in Dunedin. The 4-acre park has beautiful views of the marina and multiple picnic tables in the shade making it a great spot for a picnic. The park also has a cute gazebo for pictures, two playgrounds and it’s just a short walk to the Dunedin Pier. It’s easy to grab takeout from one of Dunedin’s local restaurants (Café Alfresco, Olde Bay Café, etc.) to bring to the park as well.2023-10-23T06:25:00-07:002023-10-23T07:23:04-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:37802Your guide to natural springs near TampaAlthough we’re blessed with some of the world’s best beaches in Tampa Bay, sometimes you don’t want to battle the sand, waves and people. Lucky for us the Tampa Bay area is also home to natural springs where you can tube, kayak, paddleboard and explore. Each of the natural springs we feature offers different activities so get out and enjoy.
Here are eight natural springs within 3 hours of downtown Tampa:
Lithia Springs
Location: 20 miles east of Tampa (3932 Lithia Springs Rd., Lithia)
Offers: Swimming, hiking, camping
Lithia Springs is the closest natural Florida spring to get to from Tampa and the park is run by Hillsborough County. The natural spring – 72 degrees year-round - flows cool, clean water into the Alafia River. The park is a great place to swim and camp. We have also enjoyed the hiking trails with lots of birds as well as fishing and the playground. There is a $2 per vehicle fee and then $2 per person fee to swim. The swimming area closes one hour before the park closes.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/river_tubing_2.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Tubing in river" />
Ichetucknee Springs
Location: 160 miles north of Tampa (12087 S.W. U.S. Highway 27, Fort White)
Offers: Tubing, kayaking, paddleboarding
Spring-fed rivers, lush canopies and cool swimming holes, this is one of my favorite places to go tubing in Florida. We love it because we can rent a tube from one of the local companies and get dropped off and picked up right from the river. There is also a rental facility inside the park. The main draw is the park’s eight crystal-clear springs that join to create the 6-mile Ichetucknee River. There is a general store inside the park as well as playground, picnic areas and an education center. Tickets can be purchased at floridastateparks.org. There is a $5 per vehicle charge. The park does fill up on weekends and a pre-purchased ticket is not a reservation.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/manatees.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Manatees" />
Crystal River
Location: 80 miles north of Tampa in Crystal River
Offers: Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding
Known for its sparkling blue, natural spring-fed rivers and chains of lakes, it’s also the manatee capital of the world and one of only a handful of places in Florida where you are allowed to swim with the gentle giants. The crystal-clear water is 72 degrees year-round so it is a great spot to escape the Florida summer hear. Even at its deepest point— about 18 feet— you can see straight to the bottom which is great for kayaking and swimming with the manatees. There are several local businesses that rent canoes and paddleboards in Crystal River. Some even offer guided tours. King’s Bay and Three Sisters Springs are two of the most popular water areas. Three Sisters Springs is closed until winter 2023 but you can still kayak to the springs to the left and right of the park entrance. King’s Bay is just beyond this area and we have seen manatees, dolphin, birds, turtles and even otters in this area.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/river_tubing.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="River tubing" />
Rainbow Springs
Location: 115 miles north of Tampa (19158 S.W. 81st Place Road, Dunnellon)
Offers: Tubing, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding
This is another of our favorite places to go tubing: along the Rainbow River. Tubing is available in the park (rental tubes available for $22). The water is a refreshing 72 degrees year-round and when you rent a tube in the park they will drop you off, you float down the river and get out where you parked your car. A leisurely trip down the river takes about 2 hours. You can also swim, snorkel, kayak and paddleboard in different parts of the river. Admission is $2 per person.
Ginnie Springs
Location: 149 miles north of Tampa (7300 Ginnie Springs Rd., High Springs)
Offers: Tubing, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, scuba diving, camping
This is a privately owned nature area in northern Florida. It is very popular for swimmers, snorkelers, tubers, paddleboarders and scuba divers. Flowing out to the Santa Fe River, the clear and inviting spring remains a constant 72 degrees year-round. You can rent tubes, snorkel sets, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards for a full day of fun. The park also has limited campsites. Admission is $20 adults, $5 kids. Scuba diving fees vary.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/kayaking.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Kayaking" />
Weeki Wachee
Location: 57 miles north of Tampa (6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill)
Offers: Kayaking, paddleboarding, boat ride, water park
Home of the world-famous mermaids, Weeki Wachee is a great day trip from Tampa Bay. The Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is home to the mermaid shows (daily at 11a, 1:30p and 3p) as Buccaneer Bay, Florida’s only spring-fed waterpark. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards inside the park as well as take a river boat cruise (operating between 9:30a-4p). Admission is $13 adults, $8 kids.
Silver Springs State Park
Location: 104 miles north of Tampa (5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs)
Offers: Kayaking, paddleboarding, boat ride
So far we have discussed options to swim, tube, kayak and paddleboard in Florida’s natural springs. Here is a unique experience you won’t find in the other springs: a glass bottom boat ride! This boat ride gives you an opportunity to view the wildlife in the water without getting wet. The 30-minute glass-bottom boat tours are offered daily and are $13 adults and $12 kids. Park admission is $2 per person. The Silver River flows five miles from the head spring to the Ocklawaha River with opportunities to see birds, turtles, alligators and fish. The park has a café and also rents kayaks, canoes and paddleboards.2023-09-18T08:29:00-07:002023-09-25T13:08:24-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:39154Fall Fun in Tampa Bay October 2023I love pumpkin spiced latte and really anything pumpkin. While fall in Tampa Bay doesn’t often include changing leaves, chilly temps and cozy fires, there is still lots of fun to be had. Dig out the cute fall clothes and boots (even if only for some social selfies), visit a pumpkin patches, take a hayride and get lost in a corn mazes – because it is fall y’all.
Don’t miss these festivals celebrating fall and all things pumpkin this month around Land O Lakes and Tampa Bay, FL
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/hay_ride.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Hay ride in the fall" />
<a href="https://sweetfieldsfarm.com/index.php/events/fall-maze/">Sweetfields Farm Fall Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch</a>
Weekends Sept. 23 through Nov. 5
17250 Benes Roush Rd., Masaryktown (30 minutes north of Land O Lakes)
Popular family event so make sure you buy your tickets online. The farm features animals, hayrides, a hay play area, a corn maze, hay maze, tumbleweed rollers, the Harvest barn and pumpkin patch (pumpkins for purchase). Food and drink available for purchase. Tickets start at $11.95.
<a href="https://harvestholler.com/">Harvest Holler Pumpkin Patch</a>
Fridays – Sundays starting September 15
950 Taveres Road, Polk City (about an hour east of Land O Lakes)
This family farm in Polk City is a classic fall favorite and has an incredible pumpkin patch with hundreds of different sized pumpkins. There is also a corn maze, corn hole, an authentic country store, hay rides, mini golf, giant slide and farm-fresh prepared food for sale. $15 per person. All attractions included.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/pumpkin_patch.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Flordia pumpkin patch" />
<a href="https://rapragerfamilyfarms.com/">Raprager Family Farm Pumpkin Patch</a>
Select Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays starting September 22
16907 Boy Scout Road, Odessa (20 minutes south of Land O Lakes)
Raprager’s Fall Festival and haunted farm includes axe throwing, pumpkin painting, a 900ft inflatable maze, baby cow and more. There is also a haunted barn along with the hayrides, petting zoo, hay chute slide and other favorites. And of course fall treats including pumpkin fudge. $16.95 per person.
<a href="https://armatureworks.com/event/fall-fest/">Annual Heights Fall Festival Pumpkin Patch at Armature Works</a>
Oct 14 & 15 and Oct 21 & 22 from Noon to 5:00pm
19120 N Ola Ave, Tampa (20 minutes south of Land O Lakes)
Head down to the Hillsborough River for a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, face painters, activities for the whole family and live music. There will also be a small market featuring favorite fall-inspired vendors. Also WhistlePig Whiskey is bringing their Maple Sugar Shack to Armature on Saturday 10/15 to introduce consumers to the brand’s 100-proof bourbon and 100% rye whiskey. Signature cocktails will be offered, along with tailgate games and prizes. FREE admission.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/corn_maze.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Corn maze in Florida" />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/brooksvillepumpkinpatch">21st Annual Brooksville Pumpkin Patch</a>
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays Sept. 29-Oct. 29
475 North Ave W, Brooksville (40 minutes north of Land O Lakes)
Pumpkin patch plus a petting zoo, food vendors, kids activities, pony rides, inflatables and more. Free parking and admission.
<a href="https://www.harvestmoonfl.com/">HarvestMoon Fun Farm, Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch</a>
Sat/Sun Sept. 30 to Oct. 8. Wednesday through Sunday Oct. to Nov. 5
15990 Stur Street, Masaryktown (30 minutes north of Land O Lakes)
HarvestMoon Farm offers five acres of fall fun including a 5-acre corn maze, a pumpkin patch, petting farm and more. Haunted Nights includes flashlight nights and the haunted trail. Admission starts at $15.95. Haunted nights: $21.95.
<a href="https://www.hunsaderfarms.com/pumpkin-festival">32nd Annual Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Patch Festival and Corn Maze</a>
Saturdays and Sundays Oct. 14-29 from 9am to 5pm
5500 C.R. 675, Bradenton (90 minutes south of Land O Lakes)
This Bradenton farm’s annual pumpkin festival includes live music and shows, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo, fall eats and sweets, a corn maze ($2 extra) and so much more. Admission: $15. Children 10 and under free. Parking $5.
2023-09-18T07:39:54-07:002023-09-27T16:34:02-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:39153Things to do in Tampa Bay October 2023October things to do in Tampa Bay
It's our favorite time of year: Fall in Florida. The cooler weather (OK, not a heat index above 100) is just around the corner. The humidity will drop. We don't get a true change of seasons here in Tampa Bay but we still love to celebrate with festivals, shows, concerts and more.
Check out our <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/fall-fun-in-tampa-bay-october-2023/">Fall things to do around Tampa Bay</a> including pumpkin festivals, hayrides, corn mazes and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/oktoberfest.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Oktoberfest in Tampa" />
<a href="https://www.oktoberfesttampa.com/">Oktoberfest</a>
Oct. 13-15
Curtis Hixon Park
They are tapping the kegs and getting the brats ready for Oktoberfest in downtown Tampa. Celebrate Fall with German cheer & beer, dancing and live music. Learn new customs and sing a few songs. There are also festivals celebrating Oktoberfest in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/445609667604441/?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22search_results%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22bookmark_search%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D%20">Apollo Beach</a> as well as many local breweries.
<a href="https://themahaffey.com/show/disney-junior/">Disney Junior Live on Tour</a>
Oct. 6, 2023 at 6pm
Mahaffey Theater
Have a Disney fan in your house? The Disney Junior tour is back with Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza! This show brings beloved Disney Junior characters and favorite Marvel Super Heroes live on stage for a jam-packed, concert-style show with singing, dancing, acrobatics and more. It will feature favorite songs from hit Disney Junior series, as well as new original music. Come join the party and see Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Doc McStuffins, the Puppy Dog Pals, Bo from Firebuds, Ginny from SuperKitties, and Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends LIVE on stage!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ybor_city.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Ybor City Tampa" />
<a href="https://tampabay-tours.com/downtown-ghost-tour/about-this-tour/?gclid=CjwKCAjwo9unBhBTEiwAipC117MBM-reup4rj376Su2-5Kg-SpFH_bG_Bnfmmwd-3k8gfz2t0bagYRoCL8EQAvD_BwE">Ghost Tour Ybor City</a>
Tours vary
From Native Americans burial grounds (which some believe ward off hurricanes in Tampa Bay) to mass graves of the Yellow-fever pandemic, the streets of Tampa are alive with spirits. Stories of genocide, murder, mayhem and mobsters in what was once called “The Wild West of The South.” Visit the famous and illustrious Tampa Theatre. Learn about the mobsters and movie stars in The Sapphire Room at The Hotel Floridan. Visit the Cuban Club, one of the oldest Ybor buildings and one of the most haunted in the U.S. The Ybor City Ghost Tour takes guests in search of spirits amid history. Spooky fun!
<a href="https://www.nhl.com/lightning/schedule/2023-10-01/ET">Tampa Bay Lightning home opener</a>
Oct. 20, 2023 at 5:30pm
Amalie Arena
The Big Cat, Captain, Pointer and Heddy are back with lots of new faces as the Tampa Bay Lightning skate into the 2023-24 season. They open at home vs. the Nashville Predators on Oct. 20. Go Bolts!
<a href="https://www.strazcenter.org/events/2324-season/patel/disney-s-descendants-the-musical/">Disney’s Descendants</a>
Oct. 12-15, 2023
The Straz (TECO Theater)
Based on one of the most popular Disney Channel original movies, Disney's Descendants: The Musical finds the teenaged children of the most infamous villains - Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Jafar and Cruella De Vil – clashing with the beloved heroes and royalty at Auradon Prep. Our villain students must decide between following in their parents’ wicked footsteps or learning to be good. This high-energy musical packs a contemporary pop score with upbeat choreography, comedy, adventure and your favorite Disney characters!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/cigar_fest.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Cigar Bash in Tampa" />
<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tampa-cigar-bash-2023-tickets-673370317747">Tampa Cigar Bash</a>
Oct. 7, 2023 from1-5pm
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Going back to its roots in Ybor City, cigars are a beloved symbol of growth and prosperity in the Tampa area. Cigar aficionados should check out this even where guests will receive access to sought-after cigar deals, cigar manufacturer meet-and-greets, as well delicious food, cocktails and live music! Must be 21 to attend.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/pig%20jig%20tampa.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Pig Jig Tampa" />
<a href="https://www.tampapigjig.com/">Tampa Pig Jig</a>
Oct. 21 from 1p-10p
Julian B Lane Park
BBQ lovers unite and celebrate at the Tampa Pig Jig this month. Enjoy live music, delicious food, ice-cold beer and a fierce corporate barbecue competition in downtown Tampa’s waterfront park. But it’s more than just a good time. The Tampa Pig Jig raises money for NephCure, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting research, improving treatment and finding a cure for kidney diseases.
<a href="http://www.vivatampabayfestival.com/">Viva Tampa Bay Festival</a>
Oct. 8, 2023 from 11am to 9pm
Harvey Perry Sr. Park (900 East Scott Street, Tampa)
Get ready to shake your thang at the Viva Tampa Bay Festival. The Family Art & Cultural Festival celebrates the beauty of Tampa Bay's Hispanic Communities. Guests can enjoy delicious Latin foods and local band performances dedicated to Hispanic Heritage. The goal is that guests leave with an appreciation for the roots of Hispanic cultural Heritage in Tampa, the arts and the traditions held.
2023-09-18T07:27:42-07:002023-09-18T08:04:33-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:38753Moving to Land O LakesConsidering a move to Land O Lakes FL?
Moving to Land O Lakes with a family? Here are a few things you need to know:
I'm Lisa Carroll, the team leader of Team TLC. I’ve lived here in the Tampa Bay area for more than 35 years. I went to college here at USF (Go Bulls!) I chose to raise my family here in Land O Lakes. I love this community and I want to share why it’s a great place to live, work and play.
First and foremost, Tampa and the surrounding communities are thriving and growing. We’ve been named one of the best places in the WORLD to visit. And in 2022 Zillow named Tampa the hottest real estate market in the COUNTRY.
Pasco County, just north of Tampa, is one of the fastest growing areas of Tampa Bay. This includes Land O Lakes, Wesley Chapel, Lutz, Trinity and Zephyrhills.
Today we're going to focus on Land O Lakes, FL.
Where is Land O Lakes FL?
Land O Lakes, FL is located 20 miles north of Tampa in Pasco County FL. You can take an interstate, I-275 north to I-75, or the toll road Veterans Expressway (known as Suncoast Parkway in Land O Lakes). From downtown Tampa you can also drive Dale Mabry Hwy, which is a multi-lane road with lots of businesses and traffic lights (and usually lots of traffic).
Time to get from Land O Lakes to:
Downtown Tampa: 45 minutes
Tampa International Airport: 30 minutes
MacDill Air Force Base: 50 minutes
USF: 20 minutes
Busch Gardens: 30 minutes
Clearwater Beach: 60 minutes
St. Pete Beach: 60 minutes
St. Pete: 45 minutes
Orlando: 1 hour and 45 minutes
<a href="https://youtu.be/l_kLCrpnolY">Things we love about Land O Lakes </a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/APcvHHA56_I">Is Land O Lakes a good place to live?</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/relocating-to-the-tampa-bay-area/">Tampa area relocation guides</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/land_o_lakes_map.jpg" width="400" height="385" alt="Map of Land O Lakes" />
Land O Lakes neighborhoods
There are a variety of housing options in Land O Lakes from resort-style communities, lakefront houses, houses with land, townhouses, villas and 55+ communities. Take a tour of some Land O Lakes neighborhoods here:
<a href="https://youtu.be/Xsci76RogTE">Tour of Wilderness Lake Preserve</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/8BRwNNMoCAU">Tour Bexley</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/V7RJp2q2YZM">Tour The Groves</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/mCv1xO6VXLs">Tour The Preserve at Lake Thomas</a>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL7qRG8FJ3I">Tour of Terra Bella</a>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_A1C38bwAA">Tour of Connerton</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/Q0NKbOAIyvs">Tour of Plantation Palms</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/YcA5Vup0aI8">Tour of Ballantrae</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/nLmp2pYriRY">Tour of Oakstead</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/H9qtgTI0k34">Tour of Concord Station</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/4HUaprJVfsw">Tour of Lakeshore Ranch</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/lEA5uWxgNlI">Tour of Asbel Creek</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/I-kuUgrea2Q">Tour of Dupree Lakes</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/mCv1xO6VXLs">Tour of Lake Thomas</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/buUg8WK8pjA">Tour of Stagecoach</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/sQvrdfoEMPg">Tour of Outlaw Lake</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/Dw9dMEImKRo">Tour of Angeline</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/BoEV0Rt5ILE">Tour of Del Webb</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/land-o-lakes-high-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225" alt="Land O Lakes high school" />
Land O Lakes schools
Land O Lakes schools are served by the Pasco County School District. Most of the Land O Lakes schools are highly rated by the state of Florida. Elementary options are Connerton, Pine View, Oakstead, Lake Myrtle, Sanders Memorial and Bexley. Middle schools include Pine View and Rushe; high schools are Land O Lakes and Sunlake. Some Land O Lakes addresses may go to schools in neighboring cities still in Pasco County. There are also options for private schools, charter schools and Montessori.
<a href="https://youtu.be/hRAqV5Xdeww">Neighborhoods in Land O Lakes High school zone</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/B9iPgNk4FCw">Neighborhoods in Sunlake High school zone</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/best-schools-in-pasco-county-florida/">Top schools in Pasco County</a>
Land O Lakes businesses
There are many local small businesses in Land O Lakes but relatively few large businesses. The largest employers in Land O Lakes are the Pasco County school district, Advent Health and Earth Tech. There are several big businesses that border Land O Lakes (Lutz, FL) including Mettler-Toledo and Rassmussen University.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/beach.jpg" width="400" height="286" alt="The beach near Land O Lakes FL" />
Beaches near Land O Lakes
The Tampa Bay area is home to world-class beaches. Those beaches – Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, Honeymoon Island and Caladesi Beach – are about an hour away from Land O Lakes.
<a href="https://youtu.be/koRzM6HYpKU">Watch about the best beaches in Tampa Bay</a>
However if you are looking for waterfront property Land O Lakes has lots of options including ski lakes.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=4024433">Waterfront homes in Land O Lakes</a>
If Land O Lakes isn't for you but you want more information on specific areas of Tampa Bay, check out our <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/community-neighborhood-guides/">community guides</a> with information on neighborhoods, schools, parks and more around Tampa Bay.
Shopping in Land O Lakes
There are lots of shopping opportunities within a easy drive from most neighborhoods in Land O Lakes. You will find grocery stores - Publix, Walmart, Target, Aldi – within 10 minutes of most of the larger neighborhoods in Land O Lakes. The outlet mall, in neighboring Lutz, is within 10-20 minutes of most areas of Land O Lakes. There are big box stores – including Lowes, Walmart and Target – in neighboring Lutz as well.
Medical centers in Land O Lakes
There is a long-term acute care center – Advent Health Connerton – located in Land O Lakes. There is a hospital with 24-hour ER - St. Joseph’s North - in neighboring Lutz. There are a variety of medical and dental practices including Florida Medical Clinic in Land O Lakes.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ukes.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Ukulele Brand's" />
Restaurants in Land O Lakes
The Land O Lakes restaurant community is rapidly growing. Some of the restaurants may be fast food and some are in the neighboring city of Lutz (which is across the street from being officially in Land O Lakes). There are chain restaurants like Chilis, Carrabbas, Beef O Bradys and Village Inn. And some great local options including Hungry Harry’s BBQ, Ukulele Brands and Stonewater Grill. And, of course, fast food like Chick-Fil-A, Culvers, Tijuana Flats, McDonalds, Moes and Wendys.
Land O Lakes and the surrounding areas of Lutz and Wesley Chapel are rapidly expanding so there are more shopping and restaurant options within a few minutes drive.
<a href="https://youtu.be/TSi-yz7xHlM">Ukulele Brands waterfront dining in Land O Lakes</a>
<a href="https://youtu.be/SaoMjy433kc">More about Ukulele Brands</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/land_o_lakes_rec_center.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Land O Lakes rec center" />
Recreation in Land O Lakes
There is lots to do in and around Land O Lakes.
Land O Lakes Rec Center on Collier Parkway: baseball/softball fields, basketball courts (indoor and outdoor), tennis courts, swimming pool, fishing dock, playground, skate park and dog park<br />Heritage Park on SR54: Community center, playground, open space, stage and grills<br />Cypress Creek Nature Preserve: hiking and biking trails, equestrian trails, fishing and camping<br />Connor Preserve: hiking and biking trails as well as equestrian trails and the Bay City Flyers Club RC field.
Bottom line
We hope you find your little slice of paradise in Land O Lakes. We’re here to help before and after the move. If you have projects on your to-do list and don’t know where to start, give our preferred <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/team-tlc-vendor-list/">vendors</a> a call. They’ll get your project list tackled in no time.
We know and love our hometown and can’t wait to share our knowledge with you. Call today so we can start your search.
Download our <a href="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/file/2023Buyers_Guide.pdf" mce_href="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/file/2023Buyers_Guide.pdf">buyers guide and checklist</a>2023-09-11T07:13:00-07:002023-10-25T06:51:48-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36735Guide to moving to Tampa BayConsidering a move to our wonderful area of Tampa Bay?
As local real estate experts working in Tampa Bay, we know moving can be daunting. But that’s where we come in. We are a Team TLC - a group of 14 full-time real estate agents who serve the 4-county Tampa Bay area. We know the neighborhoods, the schools, the parks, the businesses. We know this area like the back of our hands and we want to share our knowledge with you.
First and foremost, Tampa and the surrounding communities are thriving and growing. We’ve been named one of the best places in the WORLD to visit. And in 2022 Zillow named Tampa the hottest real estate market in the COUNTRY.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/beach_2.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Beach" />
Why is Tampa so popular?
Beautiful weather, world-class beaches, amazing food, a vibrant art and culture scene, and successful sports teams are just some of the reasons I love Tampa Bay. Our area, and really the whole state of Florida, is booming. There are countless reasons to live in the Sunshine State and our Tampa Bay region has it all: weather, business, tourism, agriculture and more.
In a nutshell, here are a few reasons people are moving to Tampa Bay:
No state income taxes
Robust economy
Year-round sunshine (and no snow!)
Variety of education choices including public, private, charter and colleges
Diverse job market
Extensive art & culture scene
Amazing recreational opportunities
World-class beaches
Great medical community with world-class hospitals including Moffitt Cancer Center and John Hopkins All Childrens Hospital
Opportunities for secondary education at colleges like the University of South Florida and the University of Tampa
With more than 150 people moving to Tampa Bay every day (according to a Bloomberg analysis of the U.S. Census), our communities are thriving and growing. There are new neighborhoods in development, new schools being built and new businesses opening. It’s a great time to move to Tampa Bay.
Here’s what you need to know:
Budget
The housing market has slowed so we are no longer seeing multiple offers above asking price. This is good for home buyers. But it is still vital to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Check out these homes to see what you can buy in various price ranges in Tampa Bay:
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=4301207">What $200K will buy me in Tampa Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=4301199">What $300K will buy me in Tampa Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=4301200">What $400K will buy me in Tampa Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=4301201">What $500K will buy me in Tampa Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=4301202">What $600K will buy me in Tampa Bay</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/neighborhoods.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Neighborhoods" />
Research cities and neighborhoods
The Tampa Bay area is huge. It consists of four counties (Hillsbrough, Pasco, Pinellas and Hernando) and the major cities are Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. More than 3 million residents make Tampa Bay home. There are so many different options from downtown living, historic homes, resort-style communities, beachside communities, golf course communities and waterfront homes. Many popular neighborhoods in Tampa Bay are master-planned communities or have HOA or CDD fees.
Search homes here:
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=4029494">Beachside</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=3342674">Golf course</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=810160">Waterfront</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=803455">Condos and townhouses</a>
Search by county:
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/hillsborough-county-florida-real-estate/">Hillsborough communities</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/pasco-county-florida-real-estate/">Pasco communities</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/pinellas-county-florida-real-estate/">Pinellas communities</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/hernando-county-communities/hernando-county-florida-real-estate/">Hernando communities</a>
How to determine where to live?
First you will need to determine what areas of Tampa Bay work with your work commute, lifestyle, school needs and budget. If you have a pet there are things you’ll want to consider like proximity to dog parks and vets.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/pet-owners-guide-to-buying-a-house/">Pet owners guide to buying a house</a>
If you have school-age kids, researching schools will be important as well. Each county in Tampa Bay (Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Hernando as the main four) each have their own school districts. The state grades school based on student performance and those school grades can affect where you want to live or send your kids to school.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/top-neighborhoods-near-land-o-lakes-high/">Neighborhoods near A-rated Land O Lakes High</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-schools-in-the-tampa-bay-area/">Best schools in Tampa Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/best-schools-in-hillsborough-county-florida/">Hillsborough County schools</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/best-schools-in-pasco-county-florida/">Pasco County schools</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/best-schools-in-pinellas-county-florida/">Pinellas County schools</a>
If you are looking for information on specific areas of Tampa Bay? Get to know the various communities by checking out our <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/community-neighborhood-guides/">community guides!</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/traffic.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Traffic" />
Once you pick your city, take it for a test drive
Once you narrow your location you need to learn the ins and outs to see if it is the right fit. Drive the commute to work to see if it is manageable. Explore the restaurants and shops to make sure it works for your lifestyle. If you have kids, drive by the schools. Due to security, tours won’t be available but we will tell you about the schools in the neighborhoods you consider and you can look at school grades for specific schools on the state Web site.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/owning_a_home.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Owning a home" />
What is the cost of living?
Once you narrow your search to a specific community or neighborhood, you can estimate your cost of living in your new home. What is the home insurance necessary (flood required?) Will you send your kids to public school (free) or private school? What outside maintenance is required (lawn, pool) and will you do it yourself or hire it out? Will HOA and CDD fees fit your budget?
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/cost-of-living-in-florida/">Cost of living in Florida</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/moving.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Moving" />
To do list after your move
As a new Florida resident there will be several must-do tasks on your list after you get unpacked and settled. These include:
Purchase homeowners insurance (immediately)
Setting up utilities (schedule prior to move-in)
Change locks/transfer security system
Get a Florida driver’s license (you have 30 days to do this) and register your car
Change your address on all important accounts like banks, magazines
Register to vote
File for Florida Homestead exemption on your new property (before March 1 of the following year)
Change memberships (gym) and find new services (doctor, vet, mechanic)
Bottom line
You’ll find your little slice of paradise and hopefully get quickly acclimated to the new climate and neighborhood. We’re here to help before and after the move. If you have projects on your to-do list and don’t know where to start, give our preferred <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/team-tlc-vendor-list/">vendors</a> a call. They’ll get your project list tackled in now time.
We know and love our hometown and can’t wait to share our knowledge with you. Call today so we can start your search.
Download our <a href="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/file/2023Buyers_Guide.pdf" mce_href="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/file/2023Buyers_Guide.pdf">buyers guide and checklist</a>2023-08-28T06:16:00-07:002023-08-28T07:09:33-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:38497Looking to sell but interest rates have you hesitating?Looking to sell but interest rates have you hesitating? Team TLC recently had a training with local mortgage broker Heidi Lombardi, who is in the top 10 nationwide of securing mortgages. This graphic really stood out to us as a game changer for homeowners looking to sell:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/interest_graphic.jpg" width="500" height="282" alt="Interest rates vs. paying over asking" />
We often hear hesitant sellers who don’t want to take on a higher mortgage interest rate on their next home. Have they considered that home prices will continue to rise so they won’t “get ahead” for roughly four years if they wait for interest rates to drop – if they do. One thing is pretty certain: we won’t see the historically low rates below 3% anytime soon.
So if you’re a homeowner understanding your equity may be exactly what you need to help you feel more comfortable making your move.
What Equity Is and How It Works
Equity is the current value of your home minus what you owe on the loan. And recently, that equity has been growing far faster than you may expect.
Over the last few years, home prices rose dramatically, and that gave your equity a big boost very quickly. While the market has started to stabilize, there’s still an imbalance between the number of homes available for sale and the number of buyers looking to make a purchase. Simple supply and demand: lower inventory means more competition and higher prices.
How Equity Benefits You in Today’s Market
With today’s affordability challenges, that equity can be a game changer when you move. Here’s why. Based on data from mortgage companies and the U.S. Census, nearly two-thirds (68.7%) of homeowners have either paid off their mortgages or have at least 50% equity.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/equity.jpg" width="500" height="364" alt="home equity" />
Once you sell your house, you can use your equity to help with your next purchase. It could be some (if not all) of what you’ll need for your next down payment. It may even be enough to allow you to put a considerably larger down payment on your next home, so you don’t have to finance quite as much. And, if you’ve been in your current house for years, you may have even built up enough equity to pay in all cash. If that’s true for you, you’d be able to avoid borrowing altogether, so you wouldn’t have to worry about today’s mortgage rates.
How To Find Out How Much Equity You Have
The best way to learn how much you have is to reach out to Team TLC for a FREE home evaluation. We can help you compare what you owe to the current value. We can connect you with a local lender to discuss your options for a new loan.
Bottom Line
If you’re planning to make a move, the equity you’ve gained can make a big impact. To find out just how much equity you have in your current home and how you can use it to fuel your next purchase, connect with us today.
Source: KCM and Lombardi Team at Pioneer Mortgage Funding
<a href="https://www.keepingcurrentmatters.com/2023/08/15/equity-is-a-game-changer-for-homeowners-looking-to-sell/" rel="bookmark" title="Equity Is a Game Changer for Homeowners Looking To Sell"> </a>2023-08-15T07:04:04-07:002023-08-16T07:51:35-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36890Rent vs. Buy a homeRent vs Buy: the Pros and Cons
It might be one of the most important decisions you will make in life – apart from picking a partner or deciding to have kids. Should you rent or buy?
It absolutely will be one of the most expensive choices but considering whether to rent vs buy could severely impact your financial picture for many years to come. And not just because you’ll have a mortgage payment.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/buy_a_house.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Buy a house" />
There’s 2 schools of thought on rent vs buy:
Renting is throwing money away. It’s true you are paying someone else’s mortgage but sometimes that is necessary to get you to be ready to be a homeowner.
Buying a home is too expensive. If you can find a home with a mortgage roughly equivalent to what you would pay to rent, you’ll likely come out ahead in the long run because of equity.
Because bottom line: buying a home means you’ll start building equity – and building equity is one of the top reasons why many people become homeowners. It’s part of the American Dream.
First let’s get that term of “home equity” settled.
Home equity is how much of your home that you own. Calculating your home equity is pretty straightforward.
Here’s a simple formula:
current mortgage balance ÷ your home’s market value = % of equity you have in your home
For example, your home is valued at $400,000, and you have $200,000 left to pay on your loan. Therefore, you would have $200,000, or 50 percent, in equity.
A recent report from companies and the U.S. Census showed home equity is growing. Nearly two-thirds (68.7%) of homeowners have either paid off their mortgages or have at least 50% equity. That leads to a lot of homeowner wealth.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/pros_cons_buy_a_house.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Pros and cons to buy a house" />
But buying a home is about more than just dollars and cents. It’s also about lifestyle and long-term planning.
A quick breakdown:
HOMEOWNER
Pros of buying a house:
Ability to build equity, meaning you can borrow against the value of your home or sell it for a profit
Freedom to decorate or renovate how you like
Privacy from landlords or fellow tenants of an apartment building
Tax breaks from mortgage interest, real estate taxes
Consistent monthly payments with fixed-rate mortgages
Opportunity to build long-lasting relationships in your neighborhood
Your own space for entertaining and relaxing
Cons of buying a house
Responsibility for repairs and maintenance
Costs of homeownership (down payment, monthly mortgage payments, closing costs, property taxes, mortgage interest)
Costs of buying a house, such as the home inspection fee, appraisal fee and loan origination fee
Risk of defaulting on your mortgage
RENTER
Pros of renting a house
Flexibility to relocate without needing to sell your home
Less responsibility for maintenance and repairs
Cons of renting a house
Inability to build equity since you’re paying rent instead of a mortgage
Potential for monthly rent to increase due to economic trends or landlord preferences
Potential rules and restrictions for decorating/painting
Landlord can sell the home and leave you without housing
After reviewing the pros and cons, examine your circumstances. What is best for you? Consider this:
Calculating the cost of renting vs. buying
For current renters who are trying to determine whether renting or buying makes more sense, it is important to crunch the numbers and find out both the upfront costs and the budget needs for each.
Upfront costs for renters:
Application fees
Security deposits (usually first and last month’s rent)
Pet deposits, if applicable
Required maintenance like lawn care, which my not be covered by the homeowner
Upfront costs for homeowners:
Down payment
Home inspection and appraisal fees
Homeowners insurance
HOA and/or CDD fees
PMI (mortgage insurance) until you own 20% of the home
Home maintenance and repairs
Lawn care, pest control, and other services
One of the biggest financial differences between renting and buying is home upkeep and repairs. Not considering renovations, homeowners need to plan for routine costs like lawn/pool maintenance, air conditioning, roofing, appliances breaking. As the homeowner, anything that breaks is your responsibility. So if you know how to fix a leaky toilet or clean out your dryer vent, you will save money in this area. YouTube has been helpful to us in this regard.
Renting might be right for folks who…
Move frequently
Plan to move soon (generally speaking you need to stay in your home for 5 years)
Experience income variability
Need to save up for a purchase
Need to get their credit in shape
Are unsure where you want to live
It might be time to buy if…
You want to in build equity
You want long term financial stability (not rent being raised)
You want long term housing stability (property being sold)
You want the freedom that goes with ownership
You want the responsibility that goes with ownership
You want more choice in your home style or location
Rent vs. buy is, in many ways, about figuring out how to maintain the property and budget for the unexpected. It may mean becoming a DIYer or weekend warrior or having the budget to bring in the experts you need when things are not working. There’s definitely a learning curve involved, and new homeowners should be prepared for that.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/home_owners.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Home owners" />
A few final thoughts as you consider homeownership:
It’s wise to consider your credit score, debt-to-income ratio (DTI) and ability to make a down payment for a home. For example, a DTI of 43% or lower is recommended if you want to apply for a conventional mortgage. If you fall short in these areas, you might struggle to find a lender or an affordable mortgage.
Your credit score is vital for renting and owning. Specifically, a credit score of 620 or higher is needed to obtain a conventional mortgage, while FHA mortgages grant loans to borrowers with credit scores of 580. (these numbers are always changing) While the minimum score will help you access mortgage loans, higher scores can qualify you for lower interest rates, decreasing your mortgage payment. As a result, you might need to work on your credit score for several months before applying for a mortgage to qualify or get one you can afford.
Your savings account can be a big factor between renting and owning. When buying a home, you’ll likely need to make a down payment ranging from 3% – 20% of the home value. If your down payment is less than 20% of the home price, you’ll have to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI), raising your closing costs and monthly expenses. A smaller down payment means a larger mortgage loan, which increases your monthly payment. Therefore, your amount of savings influences your down payment and mortgage bill.
Consider closing costs on top of your down payment when buying a home. On average, closing costs are 3% – 6% of your loan amount. As a result, you’ll likely need tens of thousands of dollars in savings to buy a home.
Instead of being an eternal debate, renting vs buying is about context and your circumstances. Neither is a one-size-fits-all solution to housing. Your location and financial capabilities will clarify whether renting is better than buying. Furthermore, your financial goals can help you decide how to move forward.
Renting doesn’t always mean throwing away money; it could be helpful while you build your savings and credit score. On the other hand, if you want to stay in Tampa Bay for more than five years and build equity, homeownership might be for you.
If homeownership is your goal, we are here to help. Let us put you in touch with our preferred lender to see what loan options are available to you and what your budget will be. Once that information is set, the fun part begins: home search!2023-08-08T14:14:00-07:002023-08-16T07:53:43-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:37289Family-friendly breweries in Tampa BayDid you know August is National Beer Month? Parents don’t have to choose between hanging out with their kids and chilling at a local craft brewery here in Tampa Bay. Living in the craft brewing mecca of Florida, we scouted out 5 local breweries where kids are welcome.
In fact we found something very unique to our area. The St. Pete/Clearwater area has an official "Gulp Coast Craft Beer Trail" with most of the breweries welcoming you and the kids. Family-friendly games, live music and food are available at many breweries, and outdoor spaces translate into relaxed family time.
Here are our 6 favorite local breweries that welcome kids:
<a href="https://3dbrewing.com/">3 Daughter Brewing</a>
222 22nd St S, St. Pete
381 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach
This is hands-down our favorite. One of the largest independent, family-owned breweries in the state, 3 Daughters serves up everything from their light Beach Blonde Ale to rich and chocolate flavored Nitro Imperial Stout. Owners Mike and Leigh Harting named it after – you guessed it – their three daughters when Leigh asked: "How many beers do we have to sell to put to our three daughters through college?" With locations in St. Pete and Clearwater, 3 Daughters welcomes everyone with a fun, family-friendly vibe. The menu has food and beverage options for all including burgers, tacos and even mini hotdogs. There is a large outdoor area with games as well. Over-21 events are sometimes held in the warehouse portion, but kids are always welcome on the rest of the property.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/outdoor_dining_beer.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Outdoor dining brewery" />
<a href="https://hob.beer/">HOB Brewing Company</a>
931 Huntley Ave, Dunedin
This brewery has one of our favorite outdoor spaces. The expansive outdoor patio and recreation area just off the Pinellas Trail makes for a great family-friendly spot. Kids can have fun in the large, fenced artificial turf-covered play area while adults enjoy an award-winning brew from one of the 24 taps, or opt for hard cider, wine, seltzer or a canned cocktail. HOB Brewing Company started out life as a small craft beer bar (350sf with 40 taps and 13 barstools). Eventually, the owners – both long-time homebrewers – began brewing their own beer, and “The HOB” was born.
<a href="https://crookedthumbbrew.com/">Crooked Thumb Brewery</a>
555 10th Ave S, Safety Harbor
A Safety Harbor staple, Crooked Thumb Brewery, located just two blocks off Main Street, touts itself as a place where the entire community can gather and socialize. The brewery has a large, family-friendly, fenced-in outdoor space, and there’s a stash of boardgames behind the bar in the tasting room as well as cornhole outside. Live music in the tree-covered beer garden entertains crowds of all ages while food trucks and local food vendors serve a selection of foods on weekends.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/craft_beer_kids.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Family-friendly brewery" />
<a href="https://7venthsun.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwnMWkBhDLARIsAHBOftoFJ-ld6zefkvo1_CnnrlQg8mxKafsaKuyIFdJIUG1W6ktJp5YEYFcaAt9oEALw_wcB%2F">7venth Sun Brewery</a>
1012 Broadway, Dunedin
Woman-owned 7venth Sun Brewery is known for its small-batch IPAs and barrel-aged beers. The brewery features 10 taps and well-behaved children are welcome. The outdoor beer garden (with both covered and uncovered seating) offers a perfect place for families to chill and have fun although I'd bring older kids as the outdoor seating is close to the road.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/craft_brewery.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Craft brewery" />
<a href="https://floridaavebrewing.com/location/tampa/">Florida Avenue Brewing</a>
4315 N Florida Ave, Tampa (Seminole Heights)
The taproom, recently opened down the road from its original brewhouse in Seminole Heights, is family friendly with a 1000-sf covered outdoor patio, an on-site kitchen including a kids menu, an on-site brewery and a rotating menu of 16 freshly crafted brews including Passion of the Heights (a tropical wheat ale), Pig Jig (light lager) and Sunset Vibes (guava IPA). They also have regularly scheduled events including trivia and live music.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/oldefloridabrew/">Olde Florida Brewing Company</a>
1158 7th Street NW, Largo
New to the Tampa Bay brewery scene, the Largo-based Olde Florida Brewing Company has something for everyone – craft beers for grownups to enjoy while sitting at the beach-themed bar, and Capri Suns and for kids. Children are always welcome: The outdoor seating area with beach chairs gives them a place to play games or read one of the books that the brewery provides. They frequently have special events including live music, trivia and poker.2023-08-08T05:24:00-07:002023-08-08T06:32:48-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:37780Coachman Park in ClearwaterThe all-new Coachman Park, located in the heart of downtown Clearwater, recently reopened after a massive renovation. Clearwater spent $84 million to transform the waterfront and connect it with the downtown area. The new park is spectacular. And our favorite spot: The Sound, a music venue.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/concert_3.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Outdoor concert" />
Located next to the Clearwater Main Library and Clearwater Harbor Marina, Coachman Park is a stunning outdoor destination that offers something for everyone. The 19-acre park boasts green spaces, a state-of-the-art music venue, a waterfront walkway with views of the Memorial Causeway bridge, a playground, a splash pad, a lake, shaded seatings, restrooms, public art, gardens and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/splash_pad.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Splash pad" />
The centerpiece of the new Coachman Park is the 9,000-capacity covered outdoor performing arts venue, The Sound. This state-of-the-art amphitheater has both covered seating and open space on The Lawn with exceptional views of the waterfront. Whether you're sitting front and center or perched higher up on the lawn, you'll be able to soak in every moment of the show.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/the_sound.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Coachman Park The Sound" />
The Sound has a great upcoming schedule including the Goo Goo Dolls, Kenny Loggins, Ringo Starr, Chicago, the Clearwater Jazz Festival and more. Check out the lineup <a href="https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/the-sound">here</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/playground%20for%20kids.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Playground" />
The Lake at Coachman Park is a bustling hub of activity and a nice place to sit and relax. Nearby, a pirate-themed playground, with two climbing structures, slides and a catwalk, will keep the kids occupied for hours. And if you are looking to cool off from the Florida heat, the year-round splash pad has four fountains to keep the kids cool and entertained.
Another of our favorite spots at the new Coachman Park is The Green. This spacious four-acre grassy open space is perfect for a picnic, frisbee, yoga and more.2023-08-04T10:11:00-07:002023-08-08T06:34:05-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:38192Things to do in Tampa Bay | September 2023How are we already in the 9th month of the year? 2023 is flying by. September is full of fun (and unique) things to do from festivals to football to theater. What event are you looking forward to?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/geckofest.jpg" width="299" height="400" alt="Gecko Fest in Gulfport" />
<a href="https://visitgulfportflorida.com/gecko-fest">Geckofest</a>
Sept. 2, 2023 from 10am to 10pm
Gulfport
Let’s celebrate the end of summer. Gulfport hosts its largest festival of the year, honoring the village’s unofficial mascot and favorite reptile, the Gecko! This year’s theme is “Around the World in 80 Geckos”! Festival-goers are encouraged to arrive in costume. The festival features 12 hours of live bands and dozens of street performances. There will also be food and drink for sale. Parking and admission to Geckofest is free and the event is pet and family-friendly. In 2022 festival organizers unveiled G. Gordon McFly, a 14-foot-tall skateboarding gecko statue now welcoming locals and visitors alike to embrace the spirit of Gulfport.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/sneaker_con.jpg" width="500" height="246" alt="Sneaker Con" />
<a href="https://sneakercon.com/">Sneaker Con</a>
Sept. 2, 2023 from Noon-7pm
Tampa Convention Center
Are you a sneaker aficionado? This event is for you. For the first time Sneaker Con is hosting the biggest gathering for sneakerheads at the convention center. There will be vendors from around the country with the most exclusive and rarest sneakers, an assortment of top brands and meet some of your favorite influencers.
<a href="https://www.strazcenter.org/events/2324-season/jobsite/rosencrantz-and-guildenstern-are-dead/">Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead</a>
Sept. 13-Oct. 8, 2023
The Straz (Shimberg Playhouse)
Before winning an Oscar as the writer of Shakespeare in Love, Tom Stoppard delivered a comic retelling involving the Bard of Stratford-upon-Avon. He dove into Hamlet retelling it from the point of view of two bumbling support players. The entire world is a stage, and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern play their part as the unwitting pawns in history’s greatest tragedy. This is the story of what “really” happens behind the scenes as events pass them by.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/usf_2.jpg" width="400" height="228" alt="USF " />
<a href="https://gousfbulls.com/sports/2021/5/27/football-tickets">USF hosts Alabama</a>
Sept. 16, 3:30pm
Raymond James Stadium
Let’s be honest. It’s been a while since there was this much excitement surrounding Bulls football. Of course much of the excitement is centered around new head coach Alex Golesh, who is bringing his high-flying offense to USF. The spotlight is on Golesh, who last year as offensive coordinator had his Tennessee team put up 52 points on Nick Saban and perennial national title contender Alabama. The Bulls will host the Alabama Crimson Tide in their 3rd game of the season.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Bucs_opener.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Bucs football" />
<a href="https://www.buccaneers.com/tickets/">Bucs home opener vs. the Bears</a>
Sept. 17, 2023 at 1pm
Raymond James Stadium
Last year was lackluster and no Tom Brady has put a bit of a damper on the Bucs season. But the Creamsicle jerseys will be back next month and the cannons are ready. Grab your jersey and head out to support the Bucs as they host the Chicago Bears in their home opener!
<a href="https://themahaffey.com/show/rocky-horror/" style="font-size: 30px;">The Rocky Horror Picture Show</a>
Sept. 29, 2023 at 8pm
Mahaffey Theater
Let’s do the time warp again. Maybe we are aging ourselves here but this was THE thing to do when we were in our 20s. At Mahaffey, watch the unedited movie with a live shadow cast and audience participation. You must be 18 to attend this show.2023-08-02T11:02:49-07:002023-08-23T09:21:01-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:37663Things to do in Tampa Bay | August 2023
It's another busy month in Tampa Bay. Check out all you need to know of things to do in August 2023 from concerts to ArtWalk to Monster Jam.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/kitchen_design.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Designer kitchen" />
<a href="https://www.tampahomeshow.com/">Tampa Home Show</a>
Aug. 5-6, 2023
Tampa Convention Center
Want to know the latest bathroom and home designs or just dreaming of an outdoor kitchen to host your friends and family? This is the opportunity to learn about the latest styles as well as meet local vendors for pools, security systems, windows, garden displays, kitchens, baths and more. There is also an opportunity to meet author and host of HGTV’s “Curb Appeal” John Gidding. Best of all, the weekend event is free!
<a href="https://stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk">Second Saturday Art Walk </a>
Aug. 12, 2023
St. Pete
This is a recurring event so if you miss it this month put it on your calendar for the next! Second Saturday ArtWalk is where the Central Arts District, Grand Central District, Warehouse Arts District, Uptown Arts District and downtown Waterfront District come together as ONE ARTS DESTINATION with many venues hosting the opening night of their latest exhibit. Galleries and studios are open from 5-9pm. For some venues, this is the ONLY time the public can visit. The St Pete ArtWalk Trolley offers free transportation around the art districts this night. Parking is also available in several public garages as well as on-street parking in designated areas. The new Sunrunner also has stops close to the ArtWalk Trolley Route.
Beyonce
Aug. 16, 2023
Raymond James Stadium
Beyonce, who has racked up more than 25 Grammys, brings her Renaissance World Tour to Tampa. It’s her first tour since co-headlining a 2018 tour with her husband, Jay-Z, and she always puts on a great show. This is one of only two tour stops in the Sunshine State, the other being 2 days later in Miami.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/monster_truck.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Monster truck" />
<a href="https://www.monsterjam.com/en-US/events/tampa-fl/aug-19-2023-aug-19-2023">Monster Jam</a>
Aug. 19, 2023
Amalie Arena
The rigs are gassed up and ready for competition in downtown Tampa. Each Monster Jam truck is approximately 10.5 feet tall, 12.5 feet wide, 17 feet long and weighs 12,000 pounds! The eight different vehicles (Monster Jam Speedsters, Monster Jam ATVs, and Monster Jam trucks) compete in 6 events including timed racing, donuts, freestyle and more. Featured competitors include Grave Digger, ThunderROARus, Megalodon, El Toro Loco and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/legos.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Playing with Legos" />
<a href="http://www.BrickFanFest.com">Brick FanFest</a>
Aug. 19 (10a-5p) and Aug. 20 (10a-4p)
Florida State Fairgrounds
This is a must-see event for the LEGO fan of any age. There will be lots of LEGO creations to view, building zones, games, speakers, character meets and more. There’s also an opportunity to build LEGO cars for racing down the ramps, create in the architect zone, build one-of-a-kind mosaics or build part of the large mosaic displays. There is also a new Jurassic zone in partnership with Glazer Children's Museum. The zone includes a fossil dig, mini-John triceratops character and more!2023-07-31T11:24:00-07:002023-08-15T12:08:44-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:28553Rainy day fun spots for kids in Tampa | Indoor activities near meWe’re heading into the rainy season here in Tampa which may keep us indoors in the afternoons. Our kids still have lots of energy to burn off so what options do we have to keep them entertained? Thinking outside the box of the movies, museums and mall playgrounds, here are some of our favorite rainy day activities for kids in Tampa.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/bowling.JPG" width="undefined" height="undefined" />
Bowling
AMF, Pinchasers, Brandon Crosswords, Splitsville
Grab a pair of socks and head out to throw a few strikes. Most of the Tampa Bay area bowling alleys have open bowling daily. Most also have a snack bar so you can make a day of it.
Did you know there is a Kids Bowl Free program? Kids can register to bowl 2 free games per day. A family pass is available to allow adults to bowl at a discounted price. There are several centers in the Tampa Bay area participating. Check out kidsbowlfree.com.
Trampoline park
Altitude, Flying Squirrel, Sky Zone, Urban Air
We dare you to spend the afternoon and not feel exhausted! There are several indoor trampoline parks around the Bay area. Again most have a snack bar so you can refuel in between bouncing.
Bounce houses
Pump It Up, Playgrounds of Tampa
Many of these places are for the under 10 crowd. Most of the facilities have a separate toddler area as well.
Laser tag
Laser Ops, Laserstrike
Indoor game center where you don a special vest and laser gun and try to avoid getting tagged during your round. Many of the laser tag arenas have arcades attached.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/arcade.jpg" width="undefined" height="undefined" />
Arcade
GameTime Tampa, The Main Event, Saturn 5, Dave & Busters, Chuck E. Cheese
Skeeball, video games and, if you’re good, tickets for prizes. A great way for adults to relive their childhood remembering the Pacman and Donkey Kong days (did that age me).
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/roller_skate.png" width="undefined" height="undefined" />
Roller skating
Skate World, United Skates
The tunes are blasting at the local skating rinks for open skate most days during the summer. They have themed activities as well as summer camps and group specials. Grab your neighborhood friends for an afternoon of fun.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ice_skating.jpg" width="undefined" height="undefined" />
Ice skating
TGH Ice Plex; Tampa Bay Skating Academy in Oldsmar and Clearwater; AdventHealth Ice Center Wesley Chapel
Beat the heat and the rain with ice skating! There are several skating centers around the Tampa Bay area so lace up your skates, grab your sweatshirt and burn off some energy on the ice.2023-07-17T05:25:00-07:002023-07-17T10:48:18-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:37805100 things every Tampa Bay resident needs to doWe heard Tampa is getting its own official Monopoly Game next year. Our Tampa streetcars, Gasparilla pirate beads, Cuban cigars and cannons at RayJay could all be a part of Monopoly: Tampa Edition.
This new edition is expected to hit shelves in February 2024. But before that can happen, the public will have the opportunity to decide what businesses and nonprofits will be part of the historic game. The maker of Monopoly: Tampa Edition is asking the public to submit their favorite Tampa businesses, nonprofits and landmarks before the game’s release. Recommendations can be submitted to tampa@toptrumps.com.
As we submitted our ideas, it got us thinking about all the unique things we love about the entire Tampa Bay region. So we came up with a list of 100 things every Tampa Bay resident needs to see/do. What did we forget to include?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tampa_signs.jpg" width="500" height="198" alt="Tampa sign" />
Drive across the Skyway Bridge
Catch some sun at Clearwater Beach
See the animals at ZooTampa
Explore the underwater world at the Florida Aquarium
Ride a roller coaster (SheiKra, Cheetah Hunt, Montu, Kumba, Tigris) and see the animals at Busch Gardens
Cool off at Adventure Island
Enjoy a craft beer at a local brewery like 3 Daughters
Take a tour of Cigar City Brewing
Enjoy a Cuban sandwich at La Segunda
Walk into history at the Henry B. Plant Museum, housed in the former Tampa Bay Hotel
Walk the Tampa Riverwalk
Visit the St. Pete Pier
Enjoy Greek food at the Sponge Docks in Tarpon Springs
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/lightning_win.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Tampa Bay Lightning" />
Watch a Lightning hockey game at Amalie Arena
Walk along Bayshore Blvd, the world’s longest continuous sidewalk
Immerse yourself in art at The Fairgrounds St. Pete
Cheer on the Rays at the Trop
Hear the cannons fire for the Bucs at Raymond James Stadium
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/bucs_training_camp.jpg" width="500" height="315" alt="Bucs training camp" />
Hike the boardwalk at Lettuce Lake Park
Spot a sea cow at the Apollo Beach TECO Manatee Viewing Center
Learn about the rescued animals at Clearwater Marine Aquarium
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/streetcar.jpg" width="500" height="360" alt="Tampa streetcar" />
Ride the TECO streetcar
Be a kid at the Glazer Children’s Museum
Roar with TRex at Dinosaur World
Enjoy fried food and carnival rides at the Florida State Fair
Eat fresh seafood at John’s Pass
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ybor_rooster.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="Ybor City rooster" />
Spot a rooster in Ybor City (and visit Cuba at José Martí Park)
Enjoy a day in the sun at Fort DeSoto Park
Stay at the “Pink Palace” aka the Don Cesar
Enjoy a concert at the Florida Strawberry Festival
Try the SkyTrail at MOSI
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/rocky_bull.jpg" width="500" height="500" alt="Rocky the Bull" />
Spot Rocky the Bull at a USF sporting event
Test your luck at Seminole Hard Rock Casino
Go fishing at the Skyway Pier, the world’s longest fishing pier
Watch the horses race at Tampa Bay Downs
Learn about our area at the Tampa Bay History Center
Watch a film at the Tampa Theatre
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/dolphin_watch.jpg" width="500" height="430" alt="Dolphin watch cruise" />
Watch a dolphin surf the wake from a dolphin watching cruise
Board the American Victory Ship & Museum
Enjoy outdoor games at Sparkman Wharf
Enjoy artwork at the Tampa Museum of Art
See the melting clocks at the Salvador Dali Museum
Catch a live show at the Straz Center for Performing Arts
See a concert at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre
Walk the boardwalk at Clearwater’s Coachman Park
Have a laugh at Sidesplitters Comedy Club
Enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop bar M.Bird at Armature Works
Play a round of golf at TPC Tampa Bay
Get lost in a corn maze at Sweetfields Farm
Dine at the Columbia Restaurant (1905 Salad anyone?)
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/flowers.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Flowers" />
Smell the roses at the Florida Botanical Gardens
Enjoy Sunsets at Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach
See an alligator at Myakka River State Park
Indulge in a strawberry milkshake at Parkesdale Market in Plant City, the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World
See gopher tortoises at Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge
Eat and shop in Hyde Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/hold_gator.jpg" width="225" height="400" alt="Hold alligator" />
Pet an alligator at Alligator and Wildlife Discovery Center
Take the ferry to Caladesi Island
Grab a tube and hit the snowy slopes at Snowcat Ridge
Eat at the Harry Waugh Dessert Room at Bern's Steak House
Catch a spring training baseball game
View tropical gardens at St. Pete’s Sunken Gardens
Go ice skating at the Winter Village in Curtis Hixon Park
Cool down at Water Works Park
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/pick_berries.jpg" width="500" height="416" alt="Pick strawberries" />
Pick strawberries in Plant City
Watch the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg
Enjoy a view of downtown Tampa from Julian B. Lane Park
Learn to ice skate at Tampa Bay Skating Academy
Find some beautiful art at Second Saturday ArtWalk in St. Pete
Kayak at Hillsborough River State Park
Let the kids play in the fountains at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Enjoy a romantic dinner at the Black Pearl in Dunedin
Relax at the Safety Harbor Resort & Spa
Visit the last operating cigar factory (J.C. Newman Cigar Company) in Ybor City
Enjoy the white sand beach at Honeymoon Island State Park
Board Captain Memo’s pirate cruise from Clearwater Beach
Spend an evening at Ruth Eckerd Hall
Enjoy a meal and sunset at Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill on the beach in Clearwater Beach
Take a sunset dinner cruise
Climb the Weedon Island Preserve observation tower
Explore the Chihuly Collection at Morean Arts Center
Play and learn at Great Explorations Children’s Museum
Visit the Florida Holocaust Museum
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/gasparilla_parade%20kids.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="Gasparilla parade" />
Don your pirate gear and catch beads at the Gasparilla Parade
Take a stroll under the old banyan trees at North Straub Park
Be amazed by glass art at the Imagine Museum
Cycle the Pinellas Trail
Grab some local produce at the Saturday Morning Market in downtown St. Pete
Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee at Blind Tiger Coffee Roasters
Try at soft serve cone at Bo’s Ice Cream, Tampa’s oldest ice cream shop
Take a stroll through the contemporary art at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
Enjoy devil crabs at Brocato’s Sandwich Shop
Relax at Saddlebrook Resort and Spa
Take a ghost tour in Ybor City
Experience Tampa from the water with a pedal-driven water bike tour
Have a beer and enjoy a tour at Yuengling Brewery
Walk, jog or ride along the Upper Tampa Bay Trail
Enjoy the 7.5-acre crystal clear blue water at Epperson Lagoon
Have a Pub Sub for lunch
Visit Shuffle, Florida's first and only indoor shuffleboard bar and restaurant
2023-07-12T09:02:52-07:002023-09-11T07:58:26-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36734Tampa Bay summer bucket listWhen my kids were younger we would make a summer bucket list of items we wanted to do before they had to go back to school. Some were simple like go out for ice cream. Some took more planning like a beach day or visit to a museum. And some were things we would do on our summer road trips like hike to a waterfall or watch a sunset.
Here's our list of 8 bucket-list worthy items to make the most of your summer here in Tampa Bay. Ready, set, go!
Go to the movies <a href="https://www.regmovies.com/static/en/us/smx"></a>
Escape the heat and rain with discounted summer movies at <a href="https://www.regmovies.com/static/en/us/smx">Regal Cinemas.</a> During the first show of the day on Tuesdays and Wednesdays you enjoy $2 tickets to family movies. Movie offerings include Shrek Forever After, Minions: The Rise of Gru, Sonic the Hedgehog and Sing 2 among others.
Tampa Theatre also has a summer classic movie program. While not all the movies are kid friendly, some would be a unique date night over the hot summer months. Some of the planned movies include Fantasia, Mamma Mia!, The Breakfast Club, The Lion King, Titanic and Casablanca. Movies are on Sunday afternoons at 3pm. Tickets are $10.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/splash_pad_1.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Splash pad" />
Run off steam at the playground
Need a place for the kids to run off steam? Many of Tampa Bay’s <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-playgrounds-in-tampa-bay/">playgrounds</a> are shaded and also have covered picnic tables. So pack and lunch and grab the kids and hit these favorite Tampa Bay parks. Bonus: some have splash pads to stay cool during the hotter parts of the day. Maybe you can try a new place you haven’t been to! Check out our favorite playgrounds in Tampa Bay <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-playgrounds-in-tampa-bay/">here</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tubing.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="River tubing" />
Water, water, water
We're surrounded by water and we should take advantage of it to cool off. If you’re up for a summer day trip, make the trek to one of the natural springs around our area. While not technically in Tampa Bay, these are easy day trips. Visit Rainbow Springs State Park or Ichetucknee Springs where you can rent tubes and float in cool spring water for hours. Just be aware that the parks close once they reach capacity, almost a guarantee on summer weekends.
Another option is the beach. The Tampa Bay area has some of the best beaches in the country. Check them out <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/are-you-in-need-of-a-beach-day/">here</a>
Visit the aquarium, zoo or Busch Gardens
Pretend you’re a tourist in your own backyard and explore our local entertainment options like the <a href="https://youtu.be/k6h1BBS9Cu0">Florida Aquarium</a>, ZooTampa or Busch Gardens. For the kids, all these attractions have splash pads to cool off.
For a different spin on visiting downtown, ride the TECO trolley. The TECO Streetcar is free way to get around Ybor, Channelside and parts of downtown. The 2.7-mile route gives you hop on, hop off access within walking distance of The Florida Aquarium and Sparkman Wharf.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/saving-to-buy-a-house-free-or-low-cost-activities-in-tampa-bay/">Free or low-cost activities in Tampa Bay</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/amazing-downtown-tampa-murals/">Amazing downtown Tampa Bay murals</a><a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/amazing-downtown-tampa-murals/"></a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ice_cream_1.jpg" width="400" height="472" alt="Ice cream" />
Enjoy ice cream
Cool off with a sweet treat at one of Tampa unique ice cream shops. From dipped soft serve to homemade flavors like Oreo red velvet, there are so many options for ice cream around Tampa Bay. Check out some of our favorite local shops <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-ice-cream-shops-in-tampa-bay/">here</a>
Drop a line in the water
Tampa Bay has some of the best fishing spots in the state. And many you don’t need a boat as many area parks have fishing piers. There are some times that taking out the kayak or canoe is fun for fishing as well. Check out some of our <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-fishing-spots-in-tampa-bay/">favorite fishing spots</a> in Tampa Bay.<br />
Spend the day with nature
From walking trails to equestrian trails to boardwalks and kayaking, <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-parks-in-tampa-bay/">Tampa Bay parks</a> are amazing. The weather allows us to enjoy the outdoors all year long and we love taking advantage to view wildlife and get some exercise. Here are 5 of our favorite Tampa Bay area <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-parks-in-tampa-bay/">parks</a>.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/baseball.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Baseball game" />
Catch a baseball game
One of America’s favorite summer pasttimes: baseball. The Rays have been HOT this season, posting one of the top records in the league. And an indoor game at the Trop will keep you out of the rain and sun. Ticket prices start at just $10.
You can also plan to take in a minor league game at Steinbrenner Field (Tampa Tarpons) BayCare Ballpark (Clearwater Threshers), TD Ballpark (Dunedin Blue Jays), Joker Marchant Stadium (Lakeland Flying Tigers) or LECOM Park (Bradenton Marauders).2023-07-01T11:41:00-07:002023-07-05T10:42:38-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36732Best ice cream shops in Tampa BayBeat the heat: Best ice cream shops in Tampa Bay
Beat the heat and grab a sweet treat on National Ice Cream Day on July 16. It was a tough assignment but we sampled and narrowed down these 10 amazing LOCAL Tampa Bay ice cream shops.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/soft_serve_ice_cream.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Soft serve ice cream" />
Dairy Joy
3813 S Manhattan, Tampa
Dairy Joy is a South Tampa institution. The old-fashioned ice cream shop is family owned and has been in business since 1958. They serve authentic soft serve cones in various dipped flavors like cherry & blue raspberry. They also have hard-packed ice cream including non-dairy flavors; amazing sundaes including flutter nutter (peanut butter, marshmallow and peanuts) and carmello (carmel, peanuts and marshmallow); and milkshakes with all your favorite fruit, cookie and candy mix-ins. They also have sno cones and novelties like ice cream sandwiches and frozen bananas.
Tanya and Matt’s Ice Creamiest
15742 N Dale Mabry, Tampa
A one-of-a-kind experience, this Carrollwood ice cream shop makes their 40 unique flavors in store daily. Owned and operated by four Tampa sisters, they have the classics – like cookie dough, strawberry and mint chip - along with dozens of rotating flavors like Oreo red velvet, Mississippi mud pie, rum raisin and blueberry cheesecake. They also have gluten-free and vegan options. They offer sundaes, milkshakes, floats and ice cream cookie sandwiches.
Bo’s Ice Cream
7101 N Florida Ave, Tampa
Seminole Height’s original ice cream hangout spot. The shop was started in the 1950s by a World War II veteran. One of the oldest ice cream shops in Tampa, Bo’s continues to serve soft serve ice cream dipped in your favorite flavors like chocolate, butterscotch and sprinkles. They also have amazing milkshakes, malts and sundaes.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ice_cream_in_tampa.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Ice cream" />
Beans & Barlour
407 Central Ave, St. Petersburg
Beans & Barlour is St. Pete’s first coffee and dessert lounge and the first restaurant to feature alcohol-infused ice cream in the Tampa Bay area. They serve milkshakes, sundaes and floats—all of which can be made with or without alcohol. Their ice cream is made from scratch and they even offer pints to go.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ice_cream.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Ice cream" />
Astro Craft Ice Cream
1910 N Ola, Tampa (Armature Works)
25700 Sierra Center Blvd, Lutz
Blast off with unique flavors that highlight the diversity of our Tampa Bay community. This ice cream shop at Armature Works offers classic and unique flavors like cinnamon snickerdoodle, Tampa guava cream cheese and Ybor spiced rum toasted coconut meringue pie. And then they have signature creations, like the Campfire S’mores and Tiramisu Cheesecake. The Cuban Ice Cream Sandwich is also a must-try, made with La Segunda Cuban Bread.
Ice Cream Theory
4058 Tampa Road #8, Oldsmar
Not your mom’s traditional ice cream shop. Ice Cream Theory serves up classic ice cream with a twist. Some of their fantastical flavors include cloud cones, which are ice cream cones wrapped in cotton candy, and fantastical cones with mermaid, shark and unicorn themes. They also have amazing, over-the-top milkshakes like cookie monster, smores and pretzel paradise.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ice_cream_1.jpg" width="400" height="472" alt="Ice cream" />
Lutz Scoops
19259 N Dale Mabry, Lutz
Family owned and operated ice cream shop in Lutz. We’ve tried all the classics and they are amazing. They also have a unique spin on other flavors including toasted coconut, apple strudel and strawberry banana. They are always offering new flavors and have shakes and floats too.
Revolution Ice Cream Co.
Seminole Heights, South Tampa, Brandon
Homemade yumminess! What started as “plain” vanilla has expanded to include habanero chocolate and even candied bacon ice cream. They rotate their flavors every month but some of the unique staples include butter pancake ice cream topped with syrup, Nutella ice cream with biscoff cookie crumbles and banana pudding.
Oh Yeah Creamery
224 S Boulevard, Tampa
Oh Yeah Creamery is Tampa's first create-your-own soft serve ice cream shop. This sister shop of Revolution Ice Cream offers more than 110 mix-ins to choose from, creating endless combinations for your custom ice cream flavor. They offer classic mix-ins like cookies and fruit and well as some off-the-wall items like habanero or grape jelly. You can also choose from 10 pre-designed "spundae" options like Cereal Monster or Banana Un-split.
OddFellows Ice Cream Co.
718 S Village Cir, Tampa (Hyde Park Village)
OddFellows got its start in New York and opened a new location in Hyde Park just last year. You can find some unique and delicious ice cream flavors as well as the classics on their rotating menu. Try a scoop of Bubblegum Pop, Olive Oil, or Miso Peanut Butter Brownie. Since its conception in 2013, OddFellows has produced more than 600 flavors. They also offer ice cream flights and pints to take home.2023-07-01T10:18:00-07:002023-08-15T12:13:05-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:37502Team TLC leader Lisa Carroll<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/lisa.jpg" width="267" height="400" alt="Lisa Carroll" />
We need to take a minute to brag. Our Team TLC leader Lisa Carroll is amazing. And it isn't just us who think so. She was recently featured in a magazine article for CanvasRebel. (Our very own covergirl!)
Lisa has been helping Tampa Bay residents buy and sell real estate for 30 years so she knows so much about the market, the area, the schools and businesses.
Help us celebrate our amazing leader who leads with hard work, compassion, kindness, knowledge, confidence, creativity and love. She wants every client to receive TLC. <a href="https://canvasrebel.com/meet-lisa-marie-carroll/">CanvasRebel magazine article</a>
As half (the better half she claims!) of the husband-wife duo leading Team TLC, Lisa Carroll has spent nearly three decades excelling in the competitive landscape of Tampa Bay real estate, building a reputation as a savvy negotiator with uncompromising integrity and cutting-edge marketing strategies.
Lisa is well-respected throughout the community and has been a top producer for more than 30 years. Her sales consistently rank in the top 1% of all agents in Tampa Bay and she is part of the top 500 of Top Producers in the area as well.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/team_photo_june_2023.jpg" width="400" height="239" alt="Team TLC" />
Lisa leads a team of 12 agents and 4 staff who work with buyers, sellers and investors. Lisa’s focus is in Land O Lakes, Lutz, Odessa, Tampa and Wesley Chapel but her team serves the entire 4-county Tampa Bay area from Riverview to Tampa to St. Pete to Clearwater Beach to Spring Hill.
Here’s what Lisa had to say about herself and her team:
So how does it work to work with your spouse day-in and day-out?
We stay in our lanes, each working on the business and in the business using our strengths. Tim is a former mortgage broker and I started a real estate brokerage with my friend Anna back in the 90s. As Tim & I dated and eventually got married, we quickly realized that what we were able to achieve together in real estate was much bigger than what either of us could do alone.
Our chemistry as human beings translated into a successful business, and what better business partner than your best friend? We envisioned creating a team together and using the best of our skill sets – negotiation, marketing, communication to build that successful business. Some days are rough and we have to step away from each other. But having your other half, who balances you out and gives you a unique perspective as well as the ability to bounce ideas off, is magical.
What do you love about the Tampa Bay community and why did you choose to raise your family here?
First and foremost, no winter! I grew up in Michigan and I only ever want to visit the snow. Tim is the same as he grew up in New Jersey. We love Florida winter, which means wearing socks with our flip flops!
I moved to Tampa Bay when I was 15. I graduated from Gaither High and USF. I taught in Hillsborough County schools for eight years. My soul thrives in this community. I have intimate knowledge of the area as an educator, parent and business owner and I have a strong desire to make my home your home.
I love the sunshine, the ability to take a walk and enjoy the outdoors year-round. I love the different living options – from resort-style communities, pool homes, golf course homes, waterfront condos and historic bungalows. I love all the unique things about our community from Cuban sandwiches to world-class beaches to the Tampa Riverwalk and the local parks.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/volunteering%20team%20tlc.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Team TLC volunteering" />
What makes Team TLC stand apart from other agents/teams in Tampa Bay?
A member of the Mihara & Associates agency since 2011, I created Team TLC the next year and proudly run a team of 14 agents. Our business is built on communication, dedication and transparency. This recipe has helped us rise to the top tier of residential real estate agents.
Our team wants to build a relationship with every client. In fact, with our sharp knowledge of the local market, our team has helped more than 1000 families in the Tampa Bay area find their dream home — and I'm confident we can help you find yours too.
We are relentless in ensuring our clients get the best there is in the market. We’re available anytime, anywhere. No single transaction is ever as important as a relationship.
How do you help your buyers and sellers?
I understand that selling and/or buying a home is complex and deeply personal. There is a lot at stake financially and personally. This focus on each client as my only client and the responsibility I feel toward them drives me to be an expert in my field.
I understand the Tampa Bay market, the neighborhoods, the schools and businesses – all the variables involved in a real estate transaction. I have lived all around the Tampa Bay area over the past 30+ years from Tampa to Odessa to Land O Lakes.
As a seller, you want to effectively market your home and then negotiate to secure the highest possible price and best possible terms for the sale. As a buyer, you want a great home at the best possible price. In other words, you want to make sure you don’t leave any money on the table. This is why I love working with my team. We partner with you as your consultant, negotiator and project manager (and sometimes therapist!)
My secret sauce, and the reason for the 5-star client reviews, is great communication, directness, transparency, stylish home staging and compelling listing marketing, expert negotiations, and the ability to keep people and deals on track — calmly and professionally.
My team and I are honored to be your trusted real estate advisor. It’s a role we take very seriously. Providing you with reliable advice, a sound strategy and optimal results is win:win. You get to achieve your goals, and we enjoy the benefits of a long-lasting, sustainable career built from relationships.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/we%20love%20our%20clients.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="we love our clients" />
What is your goal as a real estate agent?
I aim to help every client meet their real estate goals. I aim for a referral from every client. And our team gets referrals from a majority of our clients. In fact our business has grown successfully and consistently thanks to the repeat business of happy clients and their introductions to friends, family and neighbors. This track record is only possible because we deliver both results AND an enjoyable experience. Studying the market and honing our craft takes dedication. It’s why I lead a small but passionate team. Everyone on our team loves to be a matchmaker (buyer + seller + home) and put deals together.
Bottom line: I strive every day to exceed my client’s expectations. My first priority is to make my clients happy. I strive to ensure that the buying or selling process is fun, easy and stress-free.
But who is Lisa?
Surprisingly my whole life isn’t real estate. I have 2 amazing kids – Garrett and Bryce who work for Team TLC. Tim & l have been married for 20 years. We have an adorable pup named Bowie.
I love art – creating it and viewing it. I love gardening and reading. Tim & I recently built a cabin in North Georgia and we love hiking to waterfalls, shopping in the local shops and visiting the amazing wineries.
My sign is on the Scorpio-Sagittarius Cusp. This means I am very passionate and intense. I love being in charge, which is why I love my role in guiding my team. I am very protective over the things I love (art, my family, my clients!), and will fight to the bitter end to protect them!
I also love our local beaches and springs. I recently rented a vacation condo on North Clearwater beach for a few months and have enjoyed morning walks on the beach, visiting the local businesses and restaurants, and the spectacular nightly sunsets.
Fast facts about Lisa:
I have two sons who both work in the family business
I am a dog mama to the most adorable pup Bowie
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/bowie.jpg" width="550" height="353" alt="Bowie the dog" />
I graduated from USF with a Bachelors in special education
I love fitness and work outs at the gym 4-5 days a week
I played basketball and volleyball in high school
I love art. Art shows. Abstract art. And I love to paint huge canvases using the elements of nature
I love music and Thai food
I meditate every day
I have been married to Tim, also my Team TLC partner, for 20 years (been together 28!)
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tim%20kiss%20lisa.jpg" width="400" height="267" alt="Tim and Lisa Carroll" />
I love the Georgia mountains and fall leaf colors. I miss that from my youth in Michigan. I love the Georgia mountains so much that I bought a vacation rental there
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/ga_cabin.jpg" width="400" height="277" alt="Georgia mountain cabin" />
I love the beach and Florida beaches specifically. I enjoy exploring our amazing beaches and springs. A few of my favorite things to do are taking walks on the soft sands of north Clearwater Beach and enjoying the crystal clear blue waters of Rainbow Springs.
I have owned a large real estate portfolios of rentals
2023-06-27T08:12:19-07:002023-06-28T08:47:21-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:34220How well do you know Land O Lakes?We live and work and play in Land O Lakes. But how well do you know the community? Here are 10 facts about Land O Lakes, FL that we think all residents should know.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Left_View.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Land O Lakes" />
1. Lakes!
This is a given. There are a lot of lakes. But did you know that Land O Lakes is home to more than 50 lakes including ski lakes like Lake Thomas, Bay Lake, King Lake, Curve Lake and East Lake.
2. Dupree Gardens
Dupree Gardens, one of Florida's original roadside tourist attractions, was located on Ehren Cutoff in Land O Lakes. You've probably driven past the original stone ticket gate and didn't know what it was. Dupree Gardens was a private 25-acre botanical garden opened in 1940 and had more than 30,000 visitors a year until it closed in the early 1950s. Now all that remains is the stone ticket gate as the surrounding area is now a housing development known as Dupree Lakes.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/swampfest.jpg" width="500" height="344" alt="Photo: Land O Lakes Swampfest" />
3. Swampfest
You can't consider yourself a Land O Lakes resident if you haven't attended Swampfest. Hosted by the Land O Lakes High booster club, Swampfest is the annual festival in town. Swampfest is your typical carnival with midway rides, games and fried treats. It is held the last weekend of October or first weekend of November each year. The event is a community-wide fundraiser that benefits area schools, non-profits and community groups.
4. Wide open space
One of the things we love most about Land O Lakes is the conservation space. One of our favorites: Conner Preserve. Conner Preserve is a 2,980-acre natural area in Land O Lakes and is part of the wildlife habitat corridor between the Starkey Wilderness Preserve and the Cypress Creek Preserve. There are 15 miles of unpaved multi-use trails in the preserve, suitable for hiking or biking. There are also 6 miles of equestrian trails.
5. Let it fly
This is really unique and cool. Land O Lakes’s Conner Preserve is home to an RC flying field maintained by the Bay City Flyers model airplane club. The field has two grass runways, two covered shelters and restroom facilities that are open to the public. It is the largest and most active RC flying club in the Tampa Bay area. On any particular day you will find quite a few flyers at the field with everything from small RC planes to drones to 1/3 scale aircraft.
6. Sporting clays
What do you get when you combine golf with a shotgun? Sporting clay. The Tampa Bay Sporting Clays, located off Ehren Cutoff in Land O Lakes, has three courses for shooting clay birds from various stations, 5 stand, skeet shooting, Olympic bunker trap and archery. Another unique and fun feature of Land O Lakes.
7. Nudist resort capital
Yes you read that correctly. Land O Lakes FL is known as "the nudist capital of the world." Why? The area has more clothing-optional and nudist resorts and communities than any other area in the US and Florida. In fact, Pasco County has 13 nudist resorts and neighborhoods in the area and an estimated 10,000 permanent residents in those communities. The resorts also attract more than a 1 million naturist tourists annually. More about these communities <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/nudist-communities/">here</a>
8. What’s in a name?
The naming of the city is surrounded by controversy. The best guess? The name was selected in the 1950s following a public contest. Just to note: the dairy/butter company Land O Lakes is located in Arden Hills, Minnesota.
9. Sanders Memorial Elementary
Sanders Memorial Elementary is one of the oldest schools in Land O Lakes. It opened in 1948 to replace smaller, wooden schools at nearby towns in Myrtle, Denham, Tucker and Drexel (which were all absorbed into what is now known as Land O Lakes). The school was named after a Pasco County judge who also served as a school principal and superintendent. The school closed at the end of 2009-10 school year and was renovated and reopened as Sanders Memorial Elementary Magnet School, with a focus on science and technology, in 2015.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/golf.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Golf in Land O Lakes" />
10. Fore!
There are two golf courses in Land O Lakes: Plantation Palms and The Groves. Plantation Palms is a 11-acre golf club designed by Dave Harman. It has a 6,800-yard championship course as well as 18-hole mini golf course and Mulligan’s Irish pub restaurant. The Groves, located within a 55 & up community, is an 18-hole, par-65 course suitable for all skill levels. They also have a putting green and The Groves Grill.
Bonus: Our 19 square mile town had around 20,000 residents in 2000. In 2010 there was around 32,000. Today, it is estimated at close to 40,000. 2023-06-21T10:58:00-07:002023-08-15T12:14:41-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36874Things to do in Tampa Bay | July 2023Things to do in Tampa Bay | July 2023
There's never a shortage of fun things to do in Tampa Bay. This month - July 2023 - is no exception. We have activities for the 4th of July, outdoor concerts, ice cream festivals and more.
4th of July celebrations
Check out our <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/celebrating-the-4th-of-july-in-tampa-bay/">blog</a> with tips for great fireworks viewing for Independence Day in Tampa Bay.
All Things America - Florida Wind Band
July 1, 2023, 5:30-7:30pm at Carrollwood Village Park
July 2, 2023 at 6pm at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church
Bring family and friends, a picnic and a blanket to enjoy this festive outdoor patriotic performance. This concert will celebrate the best of American music with additional American favorites that the entire family will enjoy.
<a href="https://www.tampa.gov/events/boom">Boom by the Bay</a>
Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in downtown Tampa
July 1, 2023 at 4pm
New to Boom by the Bay this year: a pickleball tournament! There will also be an apple pie bake-off, live entertainment, kids games, food trucks and fireworks. Admission is free and the entire family is welcome, including four-legged members! Fireworks scheduled for 9:15pm.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/wrestling.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="WWE wrestling" />
<a href="https://www.amaliearena.com/events/detail/wwe-raw-23">WWE Monday Night Raw</a>
July 24 at 7:30pm
Amalie Arena
Get ready for a smackdown. Here's your chance to view the taping of WWE Raw in Tampa! The wrestling roster is expected to include Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley, Seth "Freakin" Rollins, Gunther , Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/concert_2.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Music concert" />
Concerts
Dates and locations vary
A packed month of big-name concerts at various venues around Tampa Bay this month.
Luke Combs at Raymond James Stadium on July 7th-8th at 5:45pm
Matchbox 20 at the MidFlorida Amphitheatre in Tampa on July 8th at 7:30pm
Foreigner at the MidFlorida Amphitheatre in Tampa on July 9th at 7pm
Blink 182 at Amalie Arena on July 11th at 7:30pm
Dierks Bentley at MidFlorida Amphitheatre on July 14th at 7pm
Culture Club at the Florida State Fairgrounds on July 15th at 7pm
Anthony Hamilton at George Steinbrenner Field on July 20th at 7pm
Young the Giant at Yuengling Center on July 21st at 7pm
Lynyrd Skynyrd & ZZ Top at the Florida State Fairgrounds on July 22nd at 6:30pm
Goo Goo Dolls at Coachman Park in Clearwater on July 24th at 6pm
Nickelback at MidFlorida Amphitheatre on July 29th at 6:30pm
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/odyssey_music_festival.jpg" width="304" height="400" alt="Odyssey Music Festival St Pete" />
<a href="https://www.omf20xx.com/">Odyssey Music Festival</a>
July 29 at 2-10pm
Vinoy Park, St. Pete
Celebrate, immerse and explore beautiful arts in all forms from music, dance, live visual artists, our vendor village and much more! Tickets start at $80. https://www.omf20xx.com/
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/eat_ice_cream.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Kids eating ice cream" />
Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival
July 16 at 11am
St. Pete Pier
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day on the St Pete Pier. Enjoy ice cream and other sweet frozen treats (for purchase) from over a dozen vendors serving their best creations from soft served, craft scoop ice cream, gelatos, popsicles, and more. Be the judge and vote for the first ever BEST ICE CREAM in Tampa Bay award. Event is free and open to the public. Check out our favorite Tampa Bay ice cream shops <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-ice-cream-shops-in-tampa-bay/">here</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/back_to_school.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Back to school" />
<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tampa-bays-largest-back-to-school-fair-tickets-505340445877">Back to School Fair</a>
July 29 at 10am-2pm
WestShore Plaza
The 16th Annual Back to School Fair presented by Hillsborough County Public Schools will give away FREE backpacks to the first 500 kids in the backpack line (exact location TBD - follow the signs in the mall). Meet and take pictures with Captain Fear from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and ThunderBug from the Tampa Bay Lightning. Pose for pictures, listen to a story and sing with the characters & princesses, get your face painted and more.
<a href="https://www.strazcenter.org/events/2223-season/jobsite-theater/lizzie-the-musical/">Lizzie the Musical</a>
July 12- Aug. 6
Straz Center
Lizzie Borden was acquitted of the 1892 ax murders of her stepmother and father but creepy legends and schoolyard rhymes insist on her guilt. This show pairs young Miss Borden with four ferocious women fronting a 6-piece rock band playing songs with snarling attitude and gleeful gallows humor.2023-06-20T08:00:00-07:002023-06-28T06:20:27-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36332Celebrating the 4th of July in Tampa BayWe all know Independence Day is about the fireworks. But there are also festivals, concerts, parades and even fun runs. Here's the info you need to celebrate Independence Day in Tampa Bay.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/july_4th_boat_parade.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Boat parade" />
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
<a href="https://thetampariverwalk.com/events-news/event-calendar.html/event/2023/07/04/july-4th-boat-parade/438179?fbclid=IwAR111J3ZbIWLwrUQYQ5xukrAMiRXHTfYc6FCsvzcGQ7Q-pvwxRDqf5CpFuw">July 4th Boat Parade and Blessing of the Fleet</a>
Downtown Tampa
Tuesday, July 4, 2023, 6-10p
The day will start with a waterski show which can only be viewed from Sparkmans Wharf. The boat parade will feature decorated vessels and will start near the Tampa Convention Center and move up the Hillsborough River to Armature Works and back to Sparkmans Wharf. Boats in the parade will be able to take part in the Blessing of the Fleet as well. Fireworks at Sparkman Wharf will conclude the celebration at 10pm.
TIMELINE:<br />6:00 PM - Water Ski Show (Viewing available ONLY at Sparkman Wharf)<br />6:00 PM - Boat Parade Begins (IMPORTANT: See times below for where/when to view the parade)<br />6:15 PM Convention Center<br />6:30 PM Curtis Hixon Park<br />6:45 PM Armature Works<br />7:15 PM Davis Islands & Channel Drive<br />7:30 PM Sparkman Wharf<br />9:00 PM Fireworks Show at Sparkman Wharf
<a href="https://www.tampa.gov/events/boom">Boom by the Bay</a>
Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park in downtown Tampa
July 1, 2023 at 4pm
New to Boom by the Bay this year: a pickleball tournament! There will also be an apple pie bake-off, live entertainment, kids games, food trucks and fireworks. Admission is free and the entire family is welcome, including four-legged members! Fireworks scheduled for 9:15pm.
<a href="https://armatureworks.com/event/fourth-of-july-2/">Armature Works</a>
July 4th, 2023
Grab a spot on the lawn and enjoy prime views of the fireworks display, Friends of the Riverwalk Boat Parade, enjoy a riverfront concert and watch the annual hot dog eating contest.
Star Spangled Sparkman Wharf
July 4, 2023 at 4pm
Great views and entertainment on the 4th of July in downtown Tampa. Star Spangled Sparkman begins at 4pm with DJs, roaming entertainment, festive food and drinks and photo ops. A water ski show begins at 6pm followed by the boat parade. Fireworks will begin at approximately 9pm. The event is free and open to the public. Sparkman Wharf will be limiting capacity— guests are encouraged to arrive early.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/4th_parade.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Parade" />
Temple Terrace Independence Day Celebration
Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club
July 4, 2023, 10a-9:15p
Temple Terrace celebrates the 4th of July with a parade beginning at 10am at Whiteway Dr. and Gillette Ave. (it will then run south to Druid Hills, west to Ridgedale and south to the Temple Terrace Little League fields.) The festivities continue at 6pm on the 1st fairway with live music and other entertainment, and, of course, a fireworks extravaganza! The fireworks will begin at approximately 9:15pm.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/LutzParadeRoute.jpg" width="500" height="552" alt="Lutz Independence Day parade" />
<a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Lutz/LutzIndependenceDay5kand1miFamilyFunRun">Lutz Independence Day Parade & Fun Run</a>
Parade travels down Lutz Lake Fern
July 4, 2023 at 10am
Parade starts at 10am in Lutz. It travels down Lutz Lake Fern toward US 41. There is also a 5K and 1-mile fun run before the parade.
Plant City July 4th Celebration
Plant City Stadium
July 4, 2023 6-9:30p
Family-friendly event with face painting, cornhole, inflattables, rock wall, live music and food vendors. Free admission. Parking $5. Military salute and national anthem at 9 p.m. Fireworks start at approximately 9:15 p.m.
PASCO COUNTY
Zephyrhills Summerfest
Zephyr Park
July 1, 2023 Noon-9:30pm
Light up your summer with a day filled with fun, food, and fireworks. The free event includes food vendors, local market, live DJ and a Kids Zone with bounce houses, a petting zoo, and pony rides. After dark will be a 30 minute fireworks show.
4th of July Celebration at Avalon Park
Avalon Park in downtown Wesley Chapel
July 4, 2023 from 5pm-9pm
Celebration includes a bake-off, bike parade, bounce houses, food trucks, vendors and community performances. Fireworks at 9pm. The celebration is free and open to the public.
PINELLAS COUNTY
Fourth Of July Fireworks in Largo
Largo Central Park
July 2, 2023 at 6pm
Gather up the family, grab your blankets or chairs and head to Largo Central Park for live music and an amazing fireworks display. Food and drink vendors will be on site. No alcohol, pets or personal fireworks allowed. There will be limited on-site parking for $10 (cash only).
Clearwater Celebrate America
Coachman Park
July 4, 2023 from 10am-11pm
Clearwater Celebrates America will include a classic car show, a local farmers market, street entertainers and other family-friendly entertainment. The grand finale of the day will be a fireworks display accompanied by the Florida Orchestra. Tickets are required for the free concert on July 4 and are available in advance at TheSoundFLA.com. General admission is first come, first serve. Chairs are limited, bringing blankets is encouraged.
<a href="https://www.thefourthstpete.com/?fbclid=IwAR2IjoX4y178TFCgWpZT8WzPrvz43ZTZSz0F4YRXeFgYFYYsu74ep1FKF7E">St. Pete Pier's The Fourth</a>
Spa Beach Park @ St. Pete Pier
July 4, 2023 from 4-10pm
For the third year the St. Pete Pier is celebrating Independence Day. Activities include a St. Pete Pier Run, kids fun zone, craft beer garden, market with local vendors, food trucks, live music and more. A traditional fireworks show will begin at 9pm and will be visible from the entire downtown St. Pete waterfront.
Safety Harbor Independence Celebration
Waterfront Park in Safety Harbor
July 1, 2023 from 5-9pm
Don your red, white and blue and celebrate Independence Day with live entertainment, food vendors and children’s activities. Fireworks start at 9pm
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/july_4th_parade.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="July 4th parade" />
Safety Harbor 4th of July Parade
Main Street in Safety Harbor
July 4, 2023 from 10am-Noon
4th of July Picnic in the Park
Craig Park in Tarpon Springs
July 4, 2023 from 10am-2pm
Fun family-celebration featuring a live band, waterslides, food and drink vendors, a hotdog eating contest and more. Fireworks are not allowed at the event.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/madiera%20july%204th.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="July 4th at the beach" />
Madiera Beach Independence Day Fireworks
R.O.C Park
July 3, 2023 at 9pm
Experience a truly dazzling Independence Day Fireworks Celebration hosted by the City of Madeira Beach. Fireworks will be launched from the Madeira Beach Fundamental School. Great viewing spots include R.O.C Park and the waterway around Madiera Beach.
2023-06-13T08:33:00-07:002023-06-20T16:51:20-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:34469How well do you know Tampa?10 fun facts about Tampa, FL. How well do you know your city?
We've lived and worked in Tampa Bay for more than 30 years! Yet every day we learn something new about our city. Do you know these 10 fun facts about Tampa?
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/gasparilla_busch_gardens.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="Gasparilla parade" />
1. Pirates invade the city annually
Tampa is the only city to get invaded by pirates EVERY YEAR. Tampa is home to the Gasparilla Parade, the 3rd largest parade in the country. Watch our video <a href="https://youtu.be/5Bmgi3xJqOQ">here</a> on the annual Gasparilla Parade.
2. You can visit Cuba in Tampa
No passport needed. You can visit Cuba in Tampa. Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter, Ybor City, is home to a genuine piece of Cuban territory – José Martí Park. The park, at the corner of 8th Avenue and 13th Street, is owned by the people of Cuba.
3. The Cuban sandwich was invented in Tampa
The Cuban sandwich was invented in Tampa. A true Tampa Cuban has pork, ham, salami, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard between Cuban bread. The difference between a Cuban sandwich in Tampa and a Cuban sandwich in Miami is the added Genoa salami due to the large population of Italian immigrants involved in the cigar trade.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/columbia_restaurant.jpg" width="400" height="291" alt="Columbia restaurant" />
4. The oldest Florida restaurant is in Tampa
The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City is Florida’s oldest restaurant as well as the world’s largest Spanish restaurant, capable of seating 1,700 people in various dining rooms. You must try the signature 1905 salad.
5. Tampa Bay is incredibly shallow
At only 12-feet deep, Tampa Bay is shallow but it is also the largest estuary in Florida – defined as having both salt and fresh water mixed together. Channels are dredged to allow ships to navigate the water.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/port_of_tampa.jpg" width="400" height="269" alt="Port of Tampa" />
6. The Port of Tampa is the largest in Florida
The port generates over $15 billion in revenue annually. The largest export? Phosphate. The Port of Tampa is also the closest full-service port to the Panama Canal.
7. Bayshore Boulevard has the longest sidewalk
This sidewalk – at 4/5 miles is said to be world’s longest continuous sidewalk. Watch video here on nearby Hyde Park.
8. Lightning capital of the world
Tampa is the lightning capital of the world. In fact the state of Florida averages 10 deaths annually from lightning strikes.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tampa_bay_lightning_playoffs1.png" width="400" height="287" alt="Tampa Bay Lightning" />
9. Super sports
Tampa has hosted five Super Bowls, including when the Tampa Bay Bucs became the first team to play (and win!) a Super Bowl in their home stadium in 2021. The Tampa Bay Lightning are 3 time Stanley Cup champions.
10. Cigar City
Ybor City was once known as the "Cigar Capital of the World" with nearly 12,000 tabaqueros (cigar-makers) employed in 200 factories. Ybor City produced an estimated 700 million cigars a year at the industry's peak.2023-06-06T09:23:00-07:002023-08-15T12:16:29-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36733Best fishing spots in Tampa BayBest fishing spots in Tampa Bay (no boat required!)
There are many places around Tampa Bay to drop your pole and spend some time fishing. And some of our favorites don't require a boat. Whether it’s sitting on a pier, standing in the sand at the beach or along Bayshore Blvd, there are freshwater and saltwater options for onshore fishing in the Tampa Bay area.
With more than 200 species of fish living in our waterways, the Tampa Bay area is the crown jewel for Florida anglers. Tampa Bay is the largest open-water estuary in the Sunshine State so the fishing in Tampa Bay is nothing short of superb. Most anglers are after the “Big 3” – tarpon, redfish and snook. Other local species include trout, jack crevalle, grouper, snapper, cobia, ladyfish, mackerel and flounder.
Note: Be sure to check to see what fishing license is needed based on your activity (or look for license-free fishing days). Generally, anglers over age 16 need a license in both freshwater and saltwater.
We have several agents on our team who love to spend their free time fishing. These are their recommendations for 12 great places for onshore fishing in Tampa Bay.
R.E. Old Park
107 Shore Drive West, Oldsmar
This is a hidden gem and a favorite of Team TLC agent Garrett Carroll. He said there is a lot of crabbing and mullet fishing at the park. But he has also seen people catch red drum and sheepshead. He loves R.E. Old Park because it has a fishing pier with shade. The 500-foot pier in the Safety Harbor with a 40 foot "T" at the end has a few shaded areas along the pier. The park also has picnic shelters, playgrounds, scenic views, restrooms and free parking.
Safety Harbor pier at Veterans Memorial Park
131 South Bayshore Blvd, Safety Harbor
The Safety Harbor pier is another favorite among our agents. The pier is within Marina Park / Veterans Memorial Park and is 420 feet in length over Old Tampa Bay and has a 50 foot "T" at the end. A shaded area is at the end also. Popular fish we have caught at this park include sheepshead, mangrove snapper, sea trout and snook. You'll want to stay off the bottom to avoid the catfish. Restrooms are available as well as a boat ramp.
Skyway Bridge Pier
I-275, St. Pete
This is the world’s longest fishing pier! We love the convenience of fishing here. Rather than parking and lugging tackle and coolers, you can drive to where you want to fish and just unload your car. It’s also lit at night, so you can fish during the cooler hours of the evening or early morning. Even in the middle of the day, though, its location at the mouth of the bay means there’s almost always a breeze and it’s easy to put up a tent for shade. The Skyway Bridge Pier offers a chance to catch snook, tarpon, mackerel, cobia, red snapper and pompano. It’s open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year as well and there is a bait shop at the pier. FYI: $4/vehicle and $4/person fee
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/fishing_pier_sunset.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Fishing pier" />
Ballast Point Park
5300 Interbay, Tampa
Ballast Point Park is a popular fishing spot in South Tampa. The 600-foot fishing pier is free to use and you can rent equipment on site. There is also a boat ramp and dock. Both the pier and boat ramp are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The fishing pier has benches and fish cleaning tables with running water so you can clean your catch right there before putting it in the cooler. Popular catches include red drum, jacks, snapper, snook and mackerel. We have even seen some small sharks caught here. The rest of the park, with playground, splash pad and picnic facilities, is open 6a-8p.
Picnic Island Beach
7409 Picnic Island Blvd, Tampa
Another South Tampa gem, located near MacDill Air Force Base. When we lost the Gandy Pier as a fishing spot (the pier became unstable and was closed), we started fishing here. There is a boat ramp and pier at the park, both which are open 24 hours a day. The park also has a beach, dog beach, playground, splash pad, disc golf course and shaded picnic pavilions. So lots to do besides fishing. The area is popular for kayak fishing with anglers catching snook and redfish.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/kayak_fishing.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Kayak fishing" />
Edward Medard Park
6140 Turkey Creek, Plant City
The 700-acre reservoir is a reclaimed phosphate mine popular for fishing, boating and canoeing. One of the popular ways to fish in the reservoir is in a kayak but we have also fished from the bank of the lake. Kayak rentals are available at the park though. Popular fish to catch in the lake are sunshine bass (striper hybrids), which are stocked on a regular basis, bluegill, sunfish and channel catfish. The reservoir has shallow waters with an average depth of about 9 feet so you can also do some swimming. Other features of the park include camping, a disc golf course, beach volleyball, picnic pavilions, a playground, observation platform and a 3-mile trail for equestrians, hikers and bird watchers. Note: $2 per vehicle (up to 8 people). $5 boat launch fee.
Rowlett Park
2401 E Yukon Street, Tampa
Nestled along a bend in the Hillsborough River, Rowlett Park offers a great spot for freshwater fishing along the park’s shores. You’ll likely catch bass, bream, bowfin and catfish in the river here. The park also has a 2-mile asphalt trail, ball fields, courts, picnic tables & shelters, grills, two playgrounds and fitness stations. A canoe launch is also available for access to the Hillsborough River State Canoe Trail, which extends north to the Hillsborough River State Park. The park is free and open 7a-7p.
Bishop Harbor
End of Bishop Harbor Rd, Palmetto
Located on the east side of Tampa Bay down near Palmetto in Manatee County, this little hidden gem offers boat ramps and a pier. The harbor is small and calm and is a great place to catch redfish, snook, grouper, lady fish and speckled trout. There are no restrooms or facilities at the park so plan accordingly.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/lake_fishing.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Lake fishing" />
E.G. Simmons Conservation Park
2401 19th Ave NW, Ruskin
Located on the east side of Tampa Bay, E.G. Simmons Park has several small piers for fishing and two boat ramps. There is also plentiful area along the shore for fishing. The park is full of native mangroves and mangrove swamp with open land areas and intertwined waterways. Other amenities include camping (fee), kayaks and canoe launch (rentals available for fee), picnic pavilions, playgrounds and beach/swimming area. Note: $2 per vehicle.
Lake Tarpon
Anderson Park Boat Ramp, 39699 US Hwy 19, Tarpon Springs
John Chestnut Sr. Park, 2200 East Lake Road, South, Palm Harbor
As far as good fishing spots in Tampa Bay for freshwater anglers, Lake Tarpon always ranks near the top. In fact, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission biologists rate the lake as one of the top 10 bass lakes in the state of Florida. The 2,534-acre lake is part of the fish management program in Florida.
There is such a wide variety of fish here including bass, monster fish and king mackerel. These parks provide direct access to Lake Tarpon via public boat ramps (fees charged) and have several amenities including fishing piers, picnic areas with grills, playgrounds and trails. Both parks, including the ramps, are open sunrise to sunset. Note: Boat ramp costs $6, credit card only.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/pier_fishing.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Pier fishing" />
Fort De Soto Park
3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde
Fort DeSoto Park is the largest park within the Pinellas County park system and consists of five interconnected islands. Fort De Soto Park offers two piers – a Gulf pier (saltwater) and a Bay pier (freshwater). Both piers have a food and bait concession are open 7a-sunset. Note: $5 parking fee. The Bay Pier is closed until winter 2023.
Lake Rogers Conservation Park
9010 N Mobley, Odessa
We love this small park located in northern Hillsborough County because it is quiet. There aren't many spots to fish from the shore so it is popular with anglers who put in their kayaks and canoes. The park has freshwater lakes, one of which — Lake Rogers — is among the largest in Hillsborough County. Common fish caught in the park include bass and brim. Note: $2 per vehicle.2023-06-06T09:00:00-07:002023-08-08T06:57:54-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36729Build your wealth: Be a homeownerWant to build your wealth? Buying a home is a great start.
Buying your first home is an exciting decision and a major milestone that has the power to change your financial future for the better.
The Survey of Consumer Finances, released in Sept. 2020 by the Federal Reserve, found homeowners in the U.S. had a median net worth of $255,000, while renters had a net worth of just $6,300. That’s a difference of 40x between the two groups. A few years later a similar study by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) found the net worth of a homeowner was about $300,000 while that of a renter’s was $8,000 in 2021.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/home_buyer_wealth.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Home owner wealthh" />
According to NAR, most owners have earned more than $100,000 in equity over the last decade. To put that into perspective, the average homeowner’s net worth is roughly 40 times that of a renter’s. This difference shows owning a home is a key step in achieving financial success.
There are many reasons why homeowners have a higher net worth. You could argue that owning a home is much like have a forced savings account, where each month part of your mortgage payment goes into the equity of the home. Whereas, renting is a sunk cost with no return on investment.
Also homes most often appreciate in value, which can help increase a homeowner’s overall net worth. Plus, homeowners can take advantage of valuable tax write-offs as well that aren’t available to renters.
As a first-time homebuyer, it’s a vision we can help you bring to life. <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/first-time-home-buyer-tips/">First time home buyer tips</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/down_payment_program.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Down payment assistance" />
Here are two things important things to consider as a first-time homebuyer:
Find down payment and first-time buyer programs
Being able to pay for the initial costs and fees associated with homeownership can feel like a major hurdle. Whether that’s getting a loan, being able to put together a down payment, or having money for closing costs, the expenses can make buying your first home feel challenging.
Florida has a program called Hometown Heroes which helps frontline heroes with down payment assistance. But beginning July 1, 2023 that program is expanding.
The Live Local Act put another $100 million into the program and extended it to all working Floridians. The Florida Housing Authority said the new program will allow up to $35,000 in down payment assistance for all Floridians. The program will be available beginning July 1 until funding runs out. Give us a call today to connect with one of our preferred lenders who can tell you about this and other first-time programs available to you.
<a href="https://www.floridahousing.org/programs/homebuyer-overview-page">First-time home buyer programs available in Florida </a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/buyers/buyers-guide/">Tampa Bay home buyers guide</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/save_for_a_house.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Save for a house" />
Keep your options open
It’s a sellers’ market, meaning there less homes on the market than that of buyer demand. So how can you find a home that works for you? Consider condos and townhomes.
Research different areas of Tampa Bay with our <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/community-neighborhood-guides/">community guides</a>
U.S. News reports that these housing types are often less expensive than single-family homes. One reason why they may be more affordable is because they’re often smaller. But they still give you the chance to be a homeowner and start building equity. Beyond that, another major perk is they typically require less maintenance. Generally condos and townhouses have a monthly HOA fee that covers external maintenance.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/property-search/results/?searchtype=2&searchid=803455">Condos and townhomes for sale in Tampa Bay</a>2023-05-31T09:28:14-07:002023-06-20T17:57:32-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36726The time to sell is nowWhy NOW is the best time to sell your home?
If you have been considering selling your home NOW is the time! Why? Because inventory is low so you have less competition with other sellers.
Fewer sellers are listing their houses for sale than is typical this time of year. According to data from Stellar MLS, the state of Florida typically has more than 90,000 homes listed for sale in April. In April 2023, only 74,000 homes were listed for sale.
Florida homes for sale
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/florida_avg_listings.jpg" width="400" height="305" alt="Florida homes for sale" />
Breaking it down to the Tampa Bay area, as of May 31, 2023, there are 8,615 homes listed for sale in the 4-county Tampa Bay area (2,950 Hillsborough, 1,815 Pasco, 3,239 Pinellas and 611 Hernando).
Nationwide that trend continues. According to data from realtor.com, available homes in April 2023 are almost 100,000 fewer than this time last year.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/20230511-the-number-of-sellers-listing-their-homes-is-lower-than-the-norm.png" width="400" height="300" alt="Homes for sale nationwide 2023" title="Nationwide houses for sale 2023" />
While that’s a lot of numbers bouncing around in your head, the bottom line is this is a great time to sell. While there are a number of factors contributing to this trend, one thing keeping inventory low right now is that homeowners are reluctant to move when the mortgage rate they have on their current house is lower than the one they could get today on their next house.
A recent survey from Realtor.com found 56% of people who are planning to sell in the next 12 months say they’re waiting for rates to come down so they can buy. This is causing lower inventory and with fewer homes available buyers will have fewer options. So as the seller, set yourself up to get the most eyes possible on your house by getting it on the market now.
That’s why it’s important to <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/the-time-to-buy-is-now/">date the rate, marry the house.</a> Get into the home you want today and if interest rates drop, you can refinance. One thing for sure, home values remain steady.
Here’s an example. If you buy a $400,000 house today with the current interest rate (approximately 8%) and the rate drops next year, you can refinance. But if that home sells for $25,000 more next year with more buyer competition and the interest rate remains the same (or rises), you actually lost an opportunity.
If your current house doesn’t meet your needs and you need to sell to fit your lifestyle (downsizing or needing more space; more outdoor space; less commute time), get your home on the market before your competition. Call today for a FREE home evaluation so we can tell you what your home is worth!
Graphics: KCM2023-05-31T08:26:33-07:002023-05-31T09:41:35-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36614Go time: Hurricane season<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/hurricane.jpg" width="300" height="251" alt="Hurricane" />
It’s that time of year again Floridians: hurricane season. We hope the Tampa Bay area will be spared any major storms this year but the time to prepare is now.
Otherwise you, like every other Tampa Bay resident, will be fighting in the aisles of Publix for canned goods, bottled water and batteries. And it is doubtful Home Depot will have plywood, generators and tarps when a storm watch is issued.
Now is the time to prepare. I like to stock a Tupperware box of basic supplies in my garage so it is available if needed. These items have sometimes come in handy when we lose power after a particularly nasty afternoon thunderstorm. So what do you need?
Here are 6 tips to prepare today …
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/hurricane_supplies.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Hurricane supplies" />
Gather supplies
Here’s a handy list of supplies to have on hand. If you use the same box year-after-after, make sure to refresh food items and make sure flashlights and batteries work.
Print our hurricane preparedness checklist <a href="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/file/HURRICANE_CHECKLIST.pdf">HURRICANE_CHECKLIST.pdf</a>
General
2-week supply of prescription medicine
Batteries
Flashlights and lanterns
Battery operated radio
Cash
Cell phone chargers and charged battery packs
Multi-purpose tool
Soap, cleaning wipes
Paper towels, toilet paper
For kids
Snacks
Comfort items (stuffed animals, blankets)
Busy activities like Legos, games, books, coloring books with markers and puzzles
For babies: diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, food
For pets
Pet food for 7 days
Identification/medical records (proof of shots)
Any medication needed
A carrier and leash
Water and food bowl
Toys
First-aid kit
Bandages and gauze
Medical tape
Antiseptic wipes
Antibiotic ointment
Antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
Tweezers
Scissors
Thermometer
Safety pins
Disposable sterile gloves
Skin rash cream, such as hydrocortisone
Cream to relieve insect bites and stings
Painkillers
Antihistamine tablets
Food and water
Water (at least a gallon per person, per day; minimum 3 days)
Note you can also fill up containers and the bathtub with water for flushing the toilet and brushing your teeth
Food (3 day supply non-perishable food)
Remember to include a variety of canned goods including fruit & meat and snacks like peanut butter, crackers, granola bars and cereal
Special items for family members with dietary restrictions including infant formula
Make a plan
If you are in an evacuation zone, know where to go and what you need to bring with you. If you plan to shelter in place, make sure you have all necessary supplies (food, water, gas for generator) in the event of power outages. Often times people forget to plan for their pets. Know pet-friendly shelters or have a plan of somewhere to stay that can accommodate your pet.
Don’t rely on memory of what you want to bring. Have a checklist, which may include important documents, medicine, cash, etc.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/hurricane_winds.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Hurricane" />
Know what your insurance covers
Now is a good time to make sure your homeowners policy is up to date. Don’t assume that just because you have insurance that everything will be covered. For example, flood insurance is generally a separate policy whereas water damage is included in your general policy. Our policy doesn’t include our fence or pool cage. So if there were damaged we would be on our own to repair.
Know what you’ve got
If you have to leave your home make sure you bring copies of all important documentation you may need – including home and car insurance. In the event of damage many insurance companies will want proof of what was lost. So once a year (now!) take a video of your home contents including expensive electronics.
It’s also a good time to make sure you have backup information printed. If you lose power might now be able to access important documents or phone numbers. Make a list of key phone numbers (if you phone loses power and you can’t recharge you need a hard copy of people to call), medical and homeowners insurance information and financial information.
Have an emergency “Go Bag”
What if you had to leave your home with only a few minutes notice? No we’re not encouraging you to react like an escaped convict but if you had to leave quickly for a family emergency (medical, weather) would you know what to take? Would you be able to gather it quickly? Medicine? Glasses? Keys? Phone charger? Cash? Just like an expectant mother, have a bag packed for emergencies.
Hurricane watch vs. warning
A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible in a stated area. Experts announce hurricane watches 48 hours before they expect tropical-storm-force winds (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) to start.
A hurricane warning is more serious. It means hurricane-force winds are expected in a stated area. Experts issue these warnings 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are expected in the area to give people enough time to prepare for the storm.
A cute way we like to think of it relating to tacos: a watch means you have all the ingredients to make tacos. A warning means the food is ready and you need to eat right now. Like this cute meme:
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tacos.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Hurricane watch vs. warning" />
2023 Atlantic hurricane season names
Arlene
Bret
Cindy
Don
Emily
Franklin
Gert
Harold
Idalia
Jose
Katia
Lee
Margot
Nigel
Ophelia
Philippe
Rina
Sean
Tammy
Vince
Whitney
2024 Atlantic hurricane season names
Alberto
Beryl
Chris
Debby
Ernesto
Francine
Gordon
Helene
Isaac
Joyce
Kirk
Leslie
Milton
Nadine
Oscar
Patty
Rafael
Sara
Tony
Valerie
William
2023-05-24T10:10:54-07:002023-11-15T10:56:54-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:35956Tampa Bay things to do June 2023The temperatures are heating up but it is still a good time to explore all the fun offered in Tampa Bay. Check out these fun events this month:
Safety Harbor Food & Music Festival
June 3<br />Safety Harbor City Park
Live music and DJ plus food trucks and a kickball tournament (begins at 9am). Plus playground, games and more. Admission is free. A portion of the proceeds go to benefit the Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation and Safety Harbor Little League. More info <a href="https://safetyharborkickball.com/faq.html">here</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/boat_show.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Boat show" />
Tampa Bay Boat Show
June 23-25<br />Florida State Fairgrounds
Chart your course to the fairgrounds to talk to area boat dealers and manufacturers and learn the latest in boating and fishing supplies. Hours vary and admission is free (parking fee may apply). More info <a href="https://www.tampabay.com/expos/boat-show/?fbclid=IwAR1gwy9r17avDNpGWudrK7SA_xBVIJujVGuEgqbkUE-dBXncuAenvqFI6Oc">here</a>
Concerts, concerts, concerts!
Amalie Arena
There are several big concerts coming to Amalie Arena this month. Duran Duran on June 17, Bryan Adams on June 21 and The Cure on June 29. Prices vary. More info <a href="https://www.amaliearena.com/events/calendar">here</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/watermelon_1.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Watermelon" />
Brooksville Watermelon Festival
June 10-11
Downtown Brooksville
Celebrate all things watermelon in Brooksville. There will be more than 20 food vendors plus craft vendors and entertainment.2023-05-24T07:26:00-07:002023-05-24T10:37:15-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:10485Are you in need of a beach day?<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/walk_the_beach.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Walk on the beach" />
In need of some R&R? Ready to put your toes in the sand and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing against the shore? We are so fortunate to live in the sunshine state! We are home to many of the best beaches in the state.
<a href="https://youtu.be/koRzM6HYpKU"><img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/bestbeaches.jpg" width="500" height="280" alt="Best beaches" /></a>
In fact, Pinellas County beaches are no strangers to top national awards. Clearwater Beach, Caladesi Island State Park and Fort DeSoto named tops by Dr. Beach, USA Today, Trip Advisor, Travel Channel and more.
Pack a picnic and head to one of these fabulous beaches. And don’t miss the extraordinary <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/epic-spots-for-a-tampa-bay-sunset/">sunsets</a> as the sun slips slowly into the calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/clearwater_bch.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Clearwater Beach" />
Clearwater Beach
Known for its 2 1/2 miles of powdery sand and calm, shallow water, Clearwater Beach is a very popular and busy beach. If you are looking for a full-service beach with cabanas, restaurants, water sports and entertainment, then Clearwater Beach is a good choice. There are always events going on in Clearwater Beach known for its pedestrian-friendly Beach Walk Promenade and lively scene at Pier 60, where sunset is celebrated nightly with live entertainment and a craft market.
Clearwater Beach has garnered many awards in recent years. Readers of USA Today voted it “Best Beach in the South” in 2023. In 2021 and 2022, Clearwater Beach earned a spot on Travel + Leisure’s list of Florida's best beaches. Clearwater Beach was the top ranked US beach according to TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards in 2017 and 2019. This award is based on quantity and quality of traveler reviews and ratings on its site for a 12-month period. Clearwater Beach also cracked the Top 25 beaches in the world list at No. 20. It’s the only beach from Florida to make that list. It was also the No. 2 beach in the U.S. in 2002 by Dr. Beach.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/beach.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Beach" style="font-size: 17px; color: #363636;" />
Caladesi Island
If you’re in the mood for peace and quiet, perhaps a beach without condos and groomed sand, Caladesi Island State Park is a great option. And it was recently named as the No. 4 beach in the U.S. by Dr. Beach. It's absolutely one of the most stunning beaches in the area. Shell hunters will appreciate the pickings and nature lovers will find plenty of small critters to watch. There is even a three-mile kayak/canoe trail through the mangroves if you’re feeling adventurous.
Caladesi Island is a nature sanctuary so there are few amenities and it is only reachable by boat. Boats run from the mainland on a daily schedule, check the website for details and fees.<br />www.floridastateparks.org/caladesiisland
Dr. Beach, one of the world’s top coastal experts, named Caladesi Island the No. 7 beach in the US in 2019 and No. 4 in 2023.
Fred Howard Park
Fred Howard Park is a popular beach and nature preserve located on the north end of Tampa Bay’s barrier islands. The park boasts more than a mile of sugary, white sand beaches, picnic areas and grills, walking trails and playgrounds. There is a rental facility that rents paddleboards, kayaks, umbrellas and more.<br />Nature lovers can look forward to spectacular sunsets as well as occasional dolphin or manatee sightings. The park is also inhabited by other species including gopher tortoises, eagles and several butterfly and shorebird species.
Pass-A-Grille
Located at the southernmost end of St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille is a wide, beautiful beach perfect for sunbathers and sightseers alike. There is ample parking and easy beach access. Fishermen will enjoy the spot to cast a line from the jetties.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/island_beach.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Island beach" />
Honeymoon Island
Honeymoon Island’s 4-mile expanse of white sand, nature trails and bird observation areas make it popular among families. In fact, the beach area is surrounded by sand bars, so the water never gets too deep, but it’s deep enough to do some snorkeling and splashing. The island offers plenty of amenities including a playground, covered picnic areas, concession stand and the Rotary Nature Center.
Sand Key Park
If you’re searching for a tranquil, family-friendly Tampa Bay beach, explore Sand Key Park just south of Clearwater. This beautiful park is both park and beach offering visitors access to both white sand and a boardwalk and nature trail. If you come at the right time of year, you can observe the sea turtles nesting on the beach. The park offers plenty of parking space, picnic shelters, shower and restroom facilities and a playground for the kids.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/don_cesar_st_pete_beach.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Don Cesar" />
St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach truly has something for everyone and was named “One of America’s Top 10 Best Beach Towns for 2013” by Parents magazine. It has white sand beaches and warm Gulf waters. It is more an active beach with beach-side amenities including restaurants, cabana rentals, jet ski rentals and other adventure opportunities. St. Pete Beach was ranked fourth among US beaches according to TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards in 2017.
Fort DeSoto
Ever wanted to camp on the beach? This is a great spot to do it! Fort De Soto Park, at the tip of Tampa Bay, consists of more than 1,000 acres of preserved land that covers five interconnected islands. The islands are home to wildlife and various eco-systems including beach grasses, mangroves, wetlands, and palm hammocks.
The beaches are consistently listed among the tops in Florida. There is also a calm lagoon protected by sand bars that provides a safe place for little ones to play. Among the amenities are a historic fort for history buffs, a 7-mile paved trail for biking and walking, two piers where visitors can fish, a dog park and beach area, a camping area, playgrounds, picnic areas and kayak and bike rentals.
Ben T Davis
Fronting Tampa Bay and offering one of the first sights of sand for those entering Tampa via Tampa International Airport, this narrow beach is attractively landscaped and stretches along the Courtney Campbell Causeway that connects Tampa with Clearwater. It is one of the few Tampa-side beaches in the area.
Shell Key
This 1,800-acre preserve protects sensitive marine habitats and includes one of the county’s largest undeveloped barrier islands (Shell Key) as well as numerous mangrove islands and expansive sea grass beds. The preserve is only accessible by boat although it is possible to kayak to the island from the Tierra Verde Byway. Shell Key has been designated as one of the state’s most important areas for shorebird nesting and wintering and it serves as an important study area for these species. Because of this, a central core area for conservation is closed to the public. There are no restroom facilities on the island.
Looking to move closer to the beaches? Check out available <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/guide/beaches/">Beachside properties for sale</a>
Did we forget your favorite? Let us know: tampateamtlc@gmail.com2023-05-24T04:38:00-07:002023-06-20T16:39:25-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:36456Tampa among the best places to live in the U.S.<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/downtown_tampa_waterfront.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="Downtown Tampa" />
U.S. News recently published its top 150 places to live in the U.S. No surprise Florida has 14 spots on the list with five cities in the top 25 including Tampa!
Tampa cracked the top 25 on the list, coming in at No. 24. Tampa was selected based on “a laid-back beach lifestyle and the amenities of a large metropolitan area, including professional sports teams, museums and an array of entertainment and dining options.”
Tampa also placed high on other U.S. News lists including best places to retire (No. 4), best places to live in Florida (No. 5), safest places to live (No. 6) and fast-growing places (No. 19).
No. 1 was a surprise to me: Green Bay, Wisconsin. I’ve visited and it’s pretty but who wants to deal with 9 months a year of snow, cold and winter? I guess for this survey’s purposes Green Bay is the “perfect mix of big-city amenities with a Midwestern, small-town feel.”
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/clearwater_bch.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Beach" />
While Florida is often mocked (Florida Man!) for its many issues, the Sunshine State remains one of the most desirable places in the country to live. In fact, according to latest data from the U.S. Census, Florida ranks No. 1 in total net migration, which measures the difference between the number of people moving in and out of a state (from July 2021-July 2022, nearly 444,500 people moved to Florida). On the flip side, California, New York and Illinois lost the most residents.
The numbers:
No. 1 in net migration
No 1 in domestic migration
No. 1 with # of people moving per day (1,218)
No. 2 international migration
No. 3 in total population (behind California and Texas)
Are you considering a move to Florida? We want to help make the transition as smooth as possible. Our team has experience helping out-of-state buyers, with some prospective homeowners only seeing property through video calls with our agents. We have lived and worked in Tampa Bay for more than 30 years. We know the schools, the businesses, the neighborhoods. We have agents who specialize in first-time buyers, VA buyers and retirees.
Check out our <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/community-neighborhood-guides/">community guides</a> and <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/tampa/moving-to-tampa-bay/">moving guide</a> to get started on your move to Tampa.
Florida cities in the Top 150 U.S. News places to live:
5. Sarasota<br />6. Naples<br />15. Melbourne<br />16. Jacksonville<br />24. Tampa<br />28. Pensacola<br />49. Daytona Beach<br />52. Orlando<br />60. Tallahassee<br />63. Port St. Lucie<br />67. Ocala<br />91. Fort Myers<br />105. Lakeland<br />135. Miami
2023-05-17T11:10:41-07:002023-05-24T07:15:52-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:33652Breakfast spots in Land O Lakes, FL<a href="https://youtu.be/I4QJgx-pXHg">Best Land O Lakes breakfast spots</a>
I don't know about you but I LOVE breakfast. Oatmeal with all the fixins, stuffed french toast, pancakes topped with fruit, eggs and more. My mouth is watering. We're highlighting our favorite places to have breakfast around Land O Lakes, FL. And just our luck all these places also serve lunch.
Breakfast Station
21519 Village Lakes Shopping Center Dr, Land O Lakes<br />7a-3p
Tucked into the Village Lakes Shopping Center (Marshall and Ross shopping center off SR54), Breakfast Station offers your traditional eggs, pancakes, French toast, waffles and biscuits & gravy. They also have amazing omelets and skillet meals. They also serve lunch with BLTs, melts, Reubens, burgers and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/eggs_Benedict.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="eggs Benedict" />
The Breakfast Nook
1532 Land O Lakes Blvd, Lutz<br />6a-2p
You’ve probably passed this little gem many times in your travels through Land O Lakes. It’s a must try for breakfast. Tucked into a little shopping area off Land O Lakes Blvd by Walmart, the Breakfast Nook offers the traditional favorites like eggs, pancakes and French toast along with get-in-my-belly offerings like stuffed french toast, peach streusel pancakes and eggs Benedict. They also have a great lunch menu (available all day) including burgers, salads and sandwiches.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/breakfast_blintz.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="breakfast foods" />
Eurotaste Grill
2412 Land O' Lakes Blvd #104, Land O Lakes<br />6a-3p
This little restaurant, at the corner of 54 and Land O Lakes Blvd in the Big Lots shopping center, touts American classics served in generous portions at affordable prices. It’s a great place for brunch. They serve the traditional breakfast foods like omelets and pancakes plus cheese blitzes, Belgian waffles and our personal favorite, a grilled peanut butter sandwich (with bananas and bacon). They also serve lunch including sandwiches, salads, soup, gyros and burgers.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/breakfast_1.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="breakfast" />
First Watch
18665 State Rd 54, Lutz<br />7a-2:30p
This is a chain restaurant but still one of our favorites for breakfast and lunch. With amazing drinks like Morning Mediation, unique breads and really healthy options, this is a great option to start your day. They have healthier selections like avocado toast, egg white omelets, superfood bowls along with unique twists on traditional favorites like lemon ricotta pancakes, breakfast tacos, smoked salmon & vegetable frittata, oatmeal and quinoa bowls. The lunch selection is also amazing with sandwiches, salads and soup.
Keke’s Breakfast Café
22952 State Road 54, Suite 510, Lutz<br />7a-2:30p
Another great local option for those whose party is divided between breakfast and lunch. They have traditional breakfast favorites like omelets, waffles (with chocolate chips, banana split and apple cinnamon), pancakes, stuffed French toast and poached egg meals. For lunch they offer amazing paninis, sandwiches, burgers, wraps and salads.
Did we miss your favorite breakfast spot in Land O Lakes? Let us know so we can try it out!2023-05-08T06:15:00-07:002023-08-15T12:19:20-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:34485Saving to buy a house? Free (or low-cost) activities in Tampa BaySaving for a house? 12 free (or low-cost) things to do in Tampa Bay
There so much to love about the Tampa Bay area. From watching the sun set to taking a bike ride through a nature preserve, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this great area without spending a dime.
So, whether you’re a local looking for something new to do or are a prospective homebuyer saving for a home in Tampa Bay, read on to discover some of the best free things to do in Tampa Bay.
TECO Trolley
This is probably our free favorite thing to do in Tampa. You can jump on the TECO trolley downtown (near Sparkman Wharf and Amalie Arena) and take it to Ybor City or vice versa. It’s a great way to explore the city and explore some of Tampa’s must-see spots including the Columbia Restaurant, Channelside, the Florida Aquarium, the Tampa Bay History Center and more.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/telescope.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="Star gazing" />
Sky Watch at MOSI
Once a month MOSI hosts a wonderful program that allows you to join experts and look through their telescopes to see the stars, moons, planets and more! The events are free and weather permitting and are held in the Whitney Andrews Lang Center parking lot on the east side of MOSI.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/flowers.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="flowers" />
Florida Botanical Garden, Largo
Enjoy the natural beauty and plants of Florida while walking through 100 acres of formal gardens, scenic landscapes and native habitats in Largo. All walkways are ADA compliant. The Gardens are open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for the day after Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Leashed pets are welcome. The gardens are free to visit.
Tampa Riverwalk
It’s been named one of the best riverwalks in the country! The Tampa Riverwalk is a gorgeous 2.6-mile pedestrian trail and public park spanning the length of the Hillsborough River within downtown Tampa. The Riverwalk provides access to a number of the city's top tourist attractions including the Tampa Museum of Art, Glazer Children's Museum, WaterWorks Park, Channelside, Sparkman’s Wharf and Armature Works. There’s a wide variety of public art showcased along the trail as well. And there are several parks, including a splash pad for kids, along the river.
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-parks-in-tampa-bay/">Our favorite parks in Tampa</a>
<a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/best-playgrounds-in-tampa-bay/">Our favorite playgrounds in Tampa</a>
The Tampa Firefighters Museum
If you have a young one who loves fire trucks, this is the place for you. The Tampa Firefighters Museum preserves the history and culture of the Tampa Fire Department in this 18,000-square-foot museum housed within a local historical landmark. Visitors can view a variety of exhibits at the museum, including restored historic fire trucks and fire equipment and a variety of uniforms worn by city firefighters over the years. The museum is free and open to the public daily.
Tampa Police Museum
The Tampa Police Museum is a free-admission museum showcasing Tampa police artifacts dating back as far as the 19th century. The museum is located within the Tampa Police Headquarters and is open to the public daily between 10a-3p. Major exhibits include a restored 1924 Model T police car, a gallery containing mugshots and fingerprints belonging to the city's famous criminals and a preserved police motorcycle. Visitors can even pose for pictures behind a barred door relocated from the city's former jail building.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/childrens_museum.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="glazer children's museum" />
Glazer Children’s Museum
The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County proudly presents Free Tuesdays held on the first Tuesday of every month, with free museum admission from 9:30am-5pm. Check out the engineers' workshop, the firehouse and art studio, scoop sweets in the ice cream parlor and shop in the grocery store. Climb to the clouds in water's journey and possibly get a little wet playing at the water table. Due to the high attendance volume on free Tuesday, group reservations are not allowed and groups of ten or more will not be permitted.
St. Pete Pier
We’ll skip over the Bay for a bit to talk about another favorite free place to visit. The 26-acre St. Pete Pier park area is free to explore. It might cost you to park though. Our favorite spot at the St. Pete Pier is the Glazer Family playground. We also love biking along the nearby trails. The beach is also beautiful. You can pack a picnic and eat on the lawn and view the public art nearby. If you want to splurge there are also many restaurants and the Dali museum nearby.
Heritage Village
Heritage Village is a 21-acre living history complex, preserving some of Pinellas County's most historic buildings and businesses. There are 33 preserved historic attractions including a general store, a railroad depot and historic homes, churches and school buildings. The village's visitor center offers free permanent and rotating art and history exhibits, and living history demonstrations are presented on site throughout the year, including smoke house and sugar cane mill demonstrations. The museum is free and open to the public Wednesdays through Saturdays 10a-4p and Sundays 1-4p.
Pier 60 Festival, Clearwater Beach
There’s a party every night at Pier 60 in Clearwater Beach. And it’s free! Again you’ll have to pay for parking and there are many local restaurants to visit. The pier also has vendors there offering art, food and drinks. The event at Pier 60 is held two hours before sunset and two hours after sunset, weather permitting of course. There is a playground by the beach, and of course, nature’s playground…the beach!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/butterflies.jpg" width="500" height="419" alt="butterflies" />
Hammock Park Butterfly Garden, Dunedin
I love butterflies and have several butterfly plants in my yard to attract these beautiful creatures. This little spot is a hidden gem in Tampa Bay. There are 11 garden beds with 40 varieties of plants in the butterfly garden that is home to 35 different species of butterflies. The garden is near the main entrance to the Dunedin park. The is a playground and restrooms nearby as well as several nature trails.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/tampa_mural.jpg" width="500" height="243" alt="tampa murals" />
Self-guided mural tour in Tampa or St. Pete
Get your art fix by taking a self-guided tour of Tampa Bay’s impressive murals. There are beautiful murals in both downtown Tampa and downtown St. Pete. In fact, we wrote a blog just about the Tampa murals as we love them so much. Check it out <a href="https://www.tampateamtlc.com/blog/amazing-downtown-tampa-murals/">here</a>2023-05-08T06:00:00-07:002023-05-08T07:30:19-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:35776The time to buy is nowWe are all feeling the pinch of rising costs – at the grocery store, at the gas pump and restaurants. The real estate market is no different. During the pandemic home prices rose rapidly with many buyers facing a bidding war and having to pay way over asking price.
Things have changed since then. Prices have stabilized and many buyers say they are hesitant to wade into the housing market with the rising interest rates. But you should think twice before waiting for lower home prices. Here's why:
Our broker, Ray Mihara, who has been selling real estate in Tampa Bay for more than 25 years, is a go-to source for current market conditions in Tampa Bay. He regularly meets with mortgage brokers, investors and banks and recently met with Team TLC to discuss market conditions and what buyers and sellers should expect moving forward in 2023.
Bottom line: date the rate, marry the house.
What does this mean? Buy what you want now while houses are available. When the interest rates drop, refinance!
According to <a href="https://www.floridarealtors.org/news-media/news-articles/2023/03/fhfa-fla-has-6-top-10-price-increase-metros">Florida Realtor</a>, the Florida housing market has slowed due to rising mortgage rates (although they did fall half a point in the past few weeks), resulting in a decline in single-family and townhouse/condo sales. Inventory has also decreased slightly although still above pre-pandemic levels.
But many hedge fund and investor groups have been laying low with the rising interest rates. But make no mistake: the hedge funds are actively working on gaining capital and will be ready to pounce when they see the market stabilize.
So what does this mean for buyers? Competition will increase as investors and hedge fund real estate groups will be ready to gobble up properties. This will give buyers increased competition. And could raise home prices.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/Aerial_Twilight%20house.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="House for sale in Tampa Bay FL" />
In fact, house prices nationwide rose more than 8% year-to-year during the fourth quarter of 2021-2022. But Florida saw the highest year-to-year price increase of any state with 15.2%.
So if this trend continues, you could potentially gain approximately 8% equity in your home during the first year you own it. Florida home values have risen by about 80% over the past 5 years and that trend is expected to continue.
So experts advise not waiting to buy. Find the house you want and adjust the rate with refinancing when rates drop.
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/downtown_tampa.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="Downtown Tampa" />
Zillow ranked Tampa as the top real estate market in the United States in 2022. Overall, Florida housing prices have witnessed some of the most dramatic increases in the country. The Tampa real estate market has outpaced many others due to a variety of factors including a large number of potential buyers, lower housing supply, strong property sales and an active employment market.
But make no mistake: rent prices are also increasing. In fact as of April 2023, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Tampa, FL is $1,674. So now is a great time to stop throwing money away and make an investment in your future.
This information is important to sellers too. When inventory increases you'll have less competition for your home. According to a recent Zillow report, houses that are priced right are still selling. New listings dropped 22% year over year, but median pending sales only needed 17 days to go off the market.
Overall, the Florida housing market is strong and is predicted to remain so in the next five years. If you're a seller, this is wonderful news since it implies property values are rising and there isn't much selling competition. If you’re a buyer, jump into the market before competition increases! Ready to take the leap, text or call us at 813-541-5320. We’d love to chat.2023-04-17T08:35:12-07:002023-05-01T08:33:10-07:00Lisa Carrolltag:tampateamtlc.com,2012-09-20:35678Things to do in Tampa Bay May 2023There's always something fun and unique to do in the Tampa Bay area. And this month is no exception. Riverfest in downtown Tampa (wiener dog races!), golf at RayJay and festivals dedicated to Cuban sandwiches and tacos. Have a great month exploring Tampa Bay!
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/water_ski.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Water skier" />
Riverfest
May 5-6<br />Downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk
The festival spans the entire length of the Riverwalk including several parks and features family-friendly activities and events with local musicians and restaurants. The festival includes Taste of Riverwalk on Friday night and RiverFiesta (NEW!) on Saturday. There is also a full concert series of tribute bands on the main stage in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and a balloon glow at sunset on both nights. Other activities include a wiener dog derby, a lantern parade, yoga, a water ski show and a paddle invasion.
Topgolf Live
May 4-7<br />Raymond James Stadium
Tee off at the home of the Bucs or take your swings inside a tricked-out mobile simulator. From the upper deck hitting bays, you will score points by hitting onto the playing field. Typically, there are six giant targets on the field ranging from 40 to 150 yards away, and each section of each target has a point value. Each player in your bay will take turns hitting five shots and after each player has completed their turn, the game is over. Your group can play as many games as time allows (each tee time lasts one hour). Typically, a bay with a maximum of six players can complete four or five games at a reasonable pace. Toptracer technology will accurately trace your shots and show you instant replays. Food and drinks are also available. You don’t need to be a golfer to participate. It’s fun for all ages and abilities. Individual tickets are $60. More info <a href="https://tglive.complexse.com/the-game">here</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/horse_race.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Kentucky Derby" />
Derby Day
May 6<br />Tampa Bay Downs, Oldsmar
If you can't be at Churchill Downs, the Oldsmar oval is the place to experience the most exciting 2 minutes in sports. Tampa Bay Downs offers a special 12-race card, followed by the simulcast of the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby. Mint juleps will be sold in the official souvenir Derby glass. More info <a href="https://www.tampabaydowns.com/visitor-info/2022-2023-promotions-at-tampa-bay-downs">here</a>
Sunflower Fields Harvestmoon
May 6-29<br />Harvestmoon Fun Farm
Come pick a beautiful bouquet of sunflowers and zinnias, visit the petting farm, jump on the jumping pillow, take a ride on the hayride and more! Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in May, times vary. $13.95 for ages 3 and up. More info <a href="https://www.harvestmoonfl.com/">here</a>
St. Pete Tacos and Tequila Festival
May 13-14<br />Vinoy Park in St. Pete
What’s better than tacos, tequila and live music with a waterfront view? Nothing! This waterfront festival features more than 25 taco vendors, premium margaritas and other cocktail and beer options, and live music from four bands. More info <a href="https://www.stpetetacos.com/info.html">here</a>
Sunset Music Festival
May 27-28<br />Raymond James
Prepare for a sensory overload of electronic goodness with top-notch visual and audio production from a long list of bands featuring a cross-section of genres including house, techno, trance and bass. The event is Memorial Day weekend and runs 4p to midnight Saturday and Sunday. More info <a href="https://www.tampasportsauthority.com/allevents/sunset-music-festival-day-2022">here</a>
<img src="https://assets.site-static.com/userfiles/2020/image/cuban_sandwich.jpg" width="400" height="335" alt="Cuban sandwich festival in Tampa" />
Ford International Cuban sandwich festival
May 28<br />Centennial Park in Ybor City
Enjoy live music and cultural entertainment and the best Cuban sandwiches around. Contestants and chefs from around the world compete for the grand prize to compete in the World Food Championships! More info <a href="https://www.cubansandwichfestival.com/">here</a>2023-04-12T06:54:23-07:002023-04-26T07:17:30-07:00Lisa Carroll