I worked for a mortgage broker, and my two sisters were going to take the class, and Mom asked me if I wanted to go, and I said Sure!
How long have you been in real estate, and what’s your favorite part of the job?
29 YEARS! I like solving problems and getting the deals closed.
Do you specialize in a particular type of property or area?
Vacant land and mobile home set-ups, residential, and horse properties.
What’s one memorable moment from your real estate career that stands out?
When I was elected President of our local association, EPAR – I am the worst politician! I don’t like “yes” people.
What’s your best piece of advice for home buyers or sellers?
Listen to your realtor and go Slow! Ask questions!
When you’re not helping clients, what do you love to do in your free time?
Work in my yard or around my house. I love to travel!
Tell us a little about your family or your background.
I’m the oldest of 10, and I like hanging out with my sisters. I love to work with horses, and I worked at the state fair helping kids take their tests.
What’s one goal you’re working toward (personal or professional)?
Always take advantage of the education offered by the Association and I always try to stay in the know about our area.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
No where, no place in particular. No place excites me that much. 😊
What’s one fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
What inspired you to become a realtor? I was a personal shopper in the past and sold things for friends & acquaintances and one of the last things I sold prior to becoming a realtor was a “Jaguar” for my neighbor! I made 3 phone calls, 2 came to see it, and 1 drove it away. She wanted to pay me, but I never took money, I did it to achieve a goal. So, I said she could invite me and my husband to dinner. She did and included two of her friends to join us. They were the recently retired broker for Saddlebrook and the President for Saddlebrook (Peg & Frank Stringer). We had a very nice evening that Saturday night where I mentioned all the other jobs I had had in my life, like owning a day care school for 10 years, a floral arranging business for 2 years, (to help a friend who needed a job to get her mind busy), a vision center receptionist teaching patients how to put on contacts (to help the doctor whose receptionist was away for a couple of months), and raising my 3 children along the way. The following Monday, I received a phone call from the retired broker, Margaret Peg Stringer, who told me I should go into real estate, because I could make a lot of money. She could tell I had what it took! I told her I appreciated her kind words, but if I made money, it would not be fun for me. I just liked seeing if I could make whatever the goal was to happen. Like buying jewelry for someone at a lower price than they had tried to buy, and I was able to find it for less…sometimes from the same store! I met my challenge, success! However, needless to say, I did go and took the 2-week course, went to Orlando, took the exam and passed. I next went to Peg Stringer’s front door and told her, “Ok, I passed my realtor exam, when do we start?” She had no intention of starting a real estate business, she had retired…But I guess I am a good salesperson, because we did start, Stringer & Associates. We worked successfully together for 24 years until she sadly passed. then I went to Century 21 Bill Nye Realty who lived across the street from her.
How long have you been in real estate, and what’s your favorite part of the job?I have been a realtor for 34 years, and the favorite part of my job is meeting the buyers and sellers. They ultimately become my friends. I enjoy being able to work from home, listing and selling just my community and using my golf cart to get around.
Do you specialize in a particular type of property or area? I specialize in selling Saddlebrook residential real estate. For many years I held an NASD and SEC license to sell the Saddlebrook rental pool condos because they are security condominiums. But then general real estate licensees were listing and selling these condos, and we asked the SEC and NASD to do something about it and they did nothing. It meant having to take a 3-hour computer exam in Atlanta, GA. at the time, and honestly the exam had nothing to do with selling condos. So, we dropped out… So, I am now selling all the residential community in Saddlebrook, which includes Lakeside Village. I do not sell the Rental Pool condos which are the Walking Village condos for 45-day hotel stays since 2024. I do not go outside the gates of Saddlebrook to sell or list properties and when I do get those requests, I always refer those out to my office.
What’s one memorable moment from your real estate career that stands out? The most memorable moment in my real estate career was when I received a call at 7 am from a Buyer wanting to know what was available in Saddlebrook. I told him about all the properties in detail taking over an hour or more and our conversation ending by him telling me he would drive by them all and call me to show them to him. I said great! Every morning, Monday thru Friday, I went to my office, which was at Peg Stringer’s house (her home was not platted) from 8:30am to 8:00pm. When I returned home that evening, I saw my voice recorder blinking. It was the man from this morning, he wanted to see the homes I told him about this afternoon. I immediately called him, and he said, “I already saw the homes, when you did not return my call with Andy Nye, and I bought one of them!” I told him, “Congratulations, I apologized for not having received his call and immediately called my broker Peg and told her that in the morning when the stores opened, we were buying PAGERS! My advice to all realtors, get every possible new device that comes on the market to keep you and your buyers and sellers and the market in touch. You must never lose a customer because you missed a communication.
What’s your best piece of advice for home buyers or sellers? I have received many phone calls from new realtors asking how they can do as well in real estate as I have. The best advice I can give is: 1. Always answer your phone, text, and emails when you receive them. 2. Find something different about yourself from other realtors working in the same neighborhoods and capitalize on it. When I first started and sold a home, I would prepare an entire dinner and deliver to my Buyers home on moving day. In the last few years, I now bake them one of my homemade cakes. It could be a pistachio, a blueberry banana cream breakfast cake, or a box of chocolate nut or pistachio bouchons. 3. And most important, for many years I did not know I could tell a client, “I was booked!”. Honestly, I left baby showers, birthday parties, not until 15 years ago, did I learn I could say I was booked, could we schedule another day? So, in the beginning of my real estate career, I never said I was booked. I was always available. Could this be why answering all calls and texts, if I don’t respond right away, they have sent the sheriff to check on me? (true story) And could it be that I always listed and sold a lot was because I was always available? Do you always respond right away? And are you always available?
When you’re not helping clients, what do you love to do in your free time? I enjoy spending time with my family. I also like to plan family group gatherings for all of us so we can spend 4 to 5 days and nights together in the same house in a destination we have not been to before. My younger two great grandchildren call the house I rent a “castle” since it must be large enough for all 21 of us. We like to play all types of games together, paint ceramics, go bowling, eating, and do a lot of laughing and picture taking. Just being together is fun. I enjoy making photo albums for the grandchildren and for the annual gatherings too.
Tell us a little about your family or your background? I grew up in Ybor City, Florida. My mother was a cigar maker, my father a bookkeeper, and my grandparents lived with us. We lived in a 3-bedroom home my grandmother’s brother built, a 3 bedroom/ 1 bath bungalow. The gangster, Charlie Wall, lived at the end of our street, and he was murdered while my parents still lived there. Every Saturday my grandfather took my sister and me to the movies on the streetcar. At intermission they called out your ticket number and mine was called and you picked a circle off the Big Board. I was called up 3 times. I won two bicycles and a gallon of Sealtest ice cream. At 19, I married my sweetheart of 5 years, after our second year of college at the University of Tampa. We had three children and were married for 31 years and built our home in Saddlebrook when we relocated back to Tampa from St Louis, Missouri where we had been for 5 years. We found Saddlebrook and built a home in Fairway Village and 2 years later we divorced on August 3,1991. In 1992, I met Stuart, to whom I sold the house I am now living in. After a courtship, Stuart took me to see over 32 countries and on December 25, 2011, he asked me to be his wife. We were married on April 12, 2012, in a private ceremony and we then flew to New York to a reception family gathering to celebrate his birthday, but to announce our marriage. We had announced our marriage to my family at a dinner gathering at Grillsmith Restaurant’s private dining room before we left. Stuart and I had a good life together playing golf, going to the horse races, the movies, entertaining friends on the weekend, going on cruises with friends, watching Seinfeld, and while I worked, he read and did the stock market. It was a very fulfilling life until Stuart became ill and passed on March 23, 2020.
What’s one goal you’re working toward (personal or professional)? There are two things I am working on. Learning to not worry about everything all the time. Stress is a big part of my life. Learning not to let it control you is difficult, and I am trying. And, learning it is ok to say no. It is very hard for me to say no to someone, just like it was hard for me to say I am booked. But I am trying.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? I am happy where I am. I enjoy living in my home. I love everything about it. I love the yard and the people in the community. I am close to my children and where they live, and I have made friends with the neighbors and those I have sold to also.
What’s one fun fact about you that most people don’t know?I have 10 grandchildren, and when they graduate from high school, I will make them an album of photos from infant to their 18 years. They also receive their 4-years of college paid and when they graduate from college, they receive a car of their choice, and we go together for the signing (my favorite part and the picture taking), and when they purchase their first home, or apartment, (their choice) I buy them the sofa of their choice from Pottery barn.
Welcome to Century21’s expert guide on navigating the vibrant Wesley Chapel housing market, a flourishing community in the heart of Florida. Known for its inviting neighborhoods and burgeoning real estate opportunities, Wesley Chapel is a prime destination for homebuyers and investors alike. With Florida housing trends showing a steady increase in demand, understanding the nuances of the Wesley Chapel real estate scene is essential for making informed decisions. This guide will provide insightful analysis on home prices in Wesley Chapel, share the latest Wesley Chapel community news, and offer tips to help you find your perfect home or investment. Join us as we explore the dynamic landscape of this charming locale with the expertise and warmth you can always expect from Century21.
Understanding the Wesley Chapel Housing Market
The Wesley Chapel housing market is a dynamic and evolving landscape, offering diverse opportunities for homebuyers and investors. Let’s delve into the key trends and current home prices that shape this vibrant real estate scene.
Key Trends in Wesley Chapel Real Estate
The Wesley Chapel real estate market is experiencing significant growth and transformation. Recent market reports indicate a steady increase in demand for properties in this area.
One notable trend is the rise in new construction, with developers responding to the influx of residents seeking modern amenities and spacious living arrangements. This has led to a diverse range of housing options, from single-family homes to luxury apartments.
Another key trend is the emphasis on community-centric developments. Many new neighborhoods in Wesley Chapel are designed with a focus on shared spaces, walking trails, and local amenities, catering to the growing desire for a balanced lifestyle.
The market is also seeing an uptick in smart home technology integration, with buyers showing increased interest in properties equipped with energy-efficient systems and home automation features.
Home Prices in Wesley Chapel Today
Home prices in Wesley Chapel have been on an upward trajectory, reflecting the area’s growing popularity and economic development. According to recent data, the median home price in Wesley Chapel has seen a steady increase over the past few years.
This price growth is attributed to several factors, including the area’s excellent schools, proximity to Tampa, and ongoing infrastructure improvements. The demand for homes in well-established neighborhoods has particularly driven up prices in these areas.
Despite the overall increase, Wesley Chapel still offers a range of price points, making it accessible to various buyers. From starter homes to luxury estates, the market caters to diverse budgets and preferences.
It’s worth noting that while prices have risen, they remain competitive compared to similar communities in the Tampa Bay area, making Wesley Chapel an attractive option for those seeking value and quality of life.
Navigating Florida Housing Trends
Florida’s housing market is known for its unique characteristics and cyclical nature. Understanding these broader trends is crucial for making informed decisions in Wesley Chapel’s real estate landscape.
How Century21 Can Help You
At Century21, we pride ourselves on our deep understanding of the Florida housing market and our commitment to guiding clients through every step of their real estate journey. Our team of experts is well-versed in the nuances of the Wesley Chapel area.
We offer comprehensive market analysis, helping you understand current trends and future projections. This insight is crucial for making informed decisions, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing.
Our agents provide personalized support, tailoring their approach to your specific needs and goals. From property searches to negotiations and closing, we’re there to ensure a smooth process.
Additionally, we leverage cutting-edge technology and marketing strategies to give our clients a competitive edge in this dynamic market. Our extensive network and resources allow us to connect you with the best opportunities in Wesley Chapel.
Why Invest in Wesley Chapel
Investing in Wesley Chapel offers a compelling combination of growth potential and quality of life. The area’s rapid development and strategic location make it an attractive option for both residential and commercial investors.
One of the primary draws is the strong job market, with major employers in healthcare, education, and technology sectors. This economic stability contributes to a steady influx of new residents and consistent housing demand.
Wesley Chapel’s excellent schools and family-friendly amenities make it particularly appealing to young families, ensuring a robust rental market for investors. The area’s continued infrastructure improvements, including new roads and shopping centers, further enhance its appeal and potential for property value appreciation.
Moreover, Wesley Chapel’s proximity to Tampa and Orlando provides access to major urban centers while maintaining a more relaxed suburban lifestyle, a balance that many find ideal.
Purchasing a fixer-upper can be an exhilarating prospect for both homebuyers and real estate investors, offering the chance to create a dream home while potentially increasing its market value. With the right approach, you can turn a neglected property into a lucrative investment or a personal sanctuary. Understanding the intricacies of the process, from evaluating repair costs to navigating financing options, is key to making informed decisions. This guide will equip you with the essential tips and insights needed to confidently enter the world of fixer-uppers. Let’s explore how to make your fixer-upper purchase both rewarding and successful.
Understanding Fixer-Uppers
Before diving into a fixer-upper project, it’s crucial to grasp the full scope of what you’re undertaking. This section will help you understand the true costs involved and how to evaluate potential returns on your investment.
True Costs to Consider
When buying a fixer-upper, the purchase price is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s essential to factor in all potential expenses to avoid budget surprises down the road.
Start with a professional home inspection. This will uncovermajor issues and provide a clearer picture of necessary repairs. Common problems in fixer-uppers include outdated electrical systems, plumbing issues, and structural damage.
Create a detailed renovation budget. Include costs for materials, labor, permits, and unexpected issues. A wise approach is to add a 10-20% buffer for unforeseen expenses.
Don’t overlook the time investment. If you plan to do some work yourself, factor in the value of your time and any potential loss of income while focused on renovations.
Evaluating Investment Returns
Assessing the potential return on your fixer-upper investment is crucial for making an informed decision. This involves looking at both financial and personal returns.
Research the local real estate market thoroughly. Examine comparable properties in the area to understand what your home might be worth after renovations. This will help determine if the investment makes financial sense.
Consider the home’s location carefully. A fixer-upper in a desirable neighborhood may offer better long-term returns than a move-in ready home in a less popular area.
Factor in personal returns, which are harder to quantify but equally important. Think about the satisfaction of creating your dream home and the potential for increased comfort and functionality.
Essential Real Estate Tips
Navigating the purchase of a fixer-upper requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. This section provides key tips for negotiating a good deal and understanding your financing options.
Negotiating the Best Price
Negotiating the purchase of a fixer-upper requires a different approach compared to buying a move-in ready home. Your goal is to secure a price that reflects the property’s current condition and renovation needs.
Start by thoroughly researching the local market. Look at comparable sales in the area, focusing on homes in similar condition. This will give you a baseline for your offer.
Use the information from your home inspection to your advantage. Present a detailed list of necessary repairs and their estimated costs to justify your offer price. Be prepared to walk away if the seller isn’t willing to negotiate fairly.
Consider including contingencies in your offer. These might include the ability to back out if major issues are discovered during inspections or if you can’t secure financing for both the purchase and renovations.
Financing Options Explained
Financing a fixer-upper can be more complex than a standard home purchase. There are several options to consider, each with its own pros and cons.
Conventional mortgage plus home equity loan: This involves getting a regular mortgage for the purchase price, then taking out a home equity loan for renovations.
FHA 203(k) loan: This government-backed loan allows you to finance both the purchase and renovation costs in a single mortgage.
Fannie Mae HomeStyle loan: Similar to the FHA 203(k), this conventional loan combines purchase and renovation costs.
Consider talking to a mortgage professional to determine which option best suits your financial situation and renovation plans.
DIY Home Improvement Insights
For many fixer-upper buyers, the appeal lies in the opportunity to tackle some renovations themselves. This section offers guidance on planning your renovation and acquiring essential tools and skills.
Planning Your Renovation
A well-thought-out renovation plan is crucial for keeping your project on track and within budget. It’s the roadmap that will guide you through the entire process.
Start by prioritizing your projects. Focus on essential repairs first, such as structural issues, roof repairs, or updating electrical and plumbing systems. These are typically required for safety and functionality.
Create a realistic timeline for your renovations. Be honest about how long each project will take, especially if you’re doing the work yourself. Remember to factor in time for obtaining permits and inspections.
Consider the order of your projects carefully. For example, it makes sense to complete any work that requires opening up walls before you start painting or installing new flooring. This approach can save you time and prevent damage to newly completed work.
Must-Have Tools and Skills
Tackling DIY home improvements requires a combination of the right tools and the necessary skills to use them effectively.
As you take on more complex projects, you may need to invest in power tools like a drill, circular saw, or sander.
Developing your DIY skills is an ongoing process. Start with smaller projects to build confidence and learn basic techniques. Online tutorials, home improvement workshops, and local community college courses can be great resources for learning new skills.
Remember to know your limits. While DIY can save money, some projects are best left to professionals, especially those involving electrical work, plumbing, or structural changes. Always prioritize safety and don’t hesitate to call in experts when needed.
As the state of Florida is known to be the Golf Capital of the World, we boast in our over 1,250 courses throughout the state. Zephyrhills, Florida boasts a total of seven golf courses, one of which is operated by the municipality. Additionally, within a 20-mile radius of Zephyrhills, there are an additional 36 golf courses, comprising 23 public courses, three municipal courses, and ten private courses. Florida’s favorable climate, diverse landscapes, world-class courses, rich golfing tradition, and leisure opportunities make it an attractive destination for golf enthusiasts. Whether for a challenging game, a leisurely round, or a golfing vacation, Florida offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience that continues to draw players from near and far.
The Links of Lake Bernadette
Lake Bernadette golfing offers a picturesque and challenging 18-hole championship course in Florida. Built by Dean Refram, designer and previous owner of Saddlebrook resort, this respected course has a lot to offer. The well-manicured fairways, scenic views, and strategically placed hazards cater to golfers of all skill levels. The pro shop provides a wide range of equipment, while amenities like practice areas and professional instruction enhance players’ skills. Though this course is open to the public, memberships offer exclusive benefits and access to tournaments and events. Additionally, Lake Bernadette offers a clubhouse, dining options, and social areas for relaxation.
Located in Silverado Ranch, Silverado Golf & Country Club holds recognition as offering the “best golf course and restaurant deals” in Zephyrhills, Florida. Silverado Golf & Country Club is not just a golfing destination; it’s a vibrant community. The neighborhood surrounding the club features beautiful homes, often with scenic views of the golf course. Residents enjoy the benefits of an active and friendly community, with opportunities for socializing, recreational activities, and organized events. Overall, Silverado Golf & Country Club in Zephyrhills, Florida, offers a high-quality golfing experience set amidst the natural beauty of the region. With its well-designed course, excellent practice facilities, clubhouse amenities, and sense of community, Silverado provides a complete package for golf enthusiasts seeking a memorable golfing experience in the Zephyrhills area.
Sarah Berg Tennis Center: Where Passion & Excellence Meet on the Court
Welcome to the Sarah Berg Tennis Center, a haven for tennis enthusiasts and a breeding ground for champions. Located in the heart of Zephyrhills, this world-class tennis facility has been a hub of excitement, skill development, and unforgettable moments for players of all ages and abilities. Sarah Berg Tennis Center is respected for its state-of-the-art facilities, renowned coaching programs, and its unwavering dedication to fostering a love for the game. The center offers comprehensive programs for aspiring young tennis players, providing them with a solid foundation and a pathway to success. From group lessons to competitive training, young players are given the opportunity to develop their skills, learn sportsmanship, and build lasting friendships. The center also hosts tournaments and events, creating a vibrant community that fosters growth, healthy competition, and a lifelong love for the game. The Sarah Berg Tennis Center’s commitment to community engagement has garnered widespread admiration and support from locals and visitors, bringing together the many individuals of Zephyrhills.
Skydive City
For those who prefer their physical activity from a more aerial view, Skydive City offers the best views in Zephyrhills. With a team of highly skilled and certified instructors who prioritize safety and expert guidance, they ensure that each skydiving experience is conducted in a controlled and safe manner. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skydiver, the instructors at Skydive City are there to provide training, guidance, and assistance throughout the entire process. Skydive City also hosts boogie events and competitions throughout the year, attracting skydivers from around the world. These events bring the skydiving community together for a week or more of thrilling jumps, socializing, and festivities. Additionally, there are camping and RV sites available for those who wish to stay overnight or for an extended period. This is a great way to scope out the city of Zephyrhills as a local or visitor and perhaps try something new in a unique city.
Nature & Scenery
Zephyr Park
Zephyr Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Zephyrhills. It features walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a lake where visitors can go fishing or feed ducks. The park also hosts community events and festivals throughout the year. Centered around a vast lake, Zephyr Park has the unique feature of offering paddleboards to rent for a relaxing, self-led journey around the park. For pet owners looking for a day with nature, the dog park provides fenced-in areas for both small and large dogs, offering a safe and enjoyable space for pets to exercise and interact with other dogs. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful picnic, take a leisurely walk, or participate in a community event, Zephyr Park offers a welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Crystal Springs
Located in the southern end of Zephyrhills, Crystal Springs is the beautiful source of extraordinary natural views- and all Zephyrhills water bottles! This natural oasis offers nature trails, boardwalks, and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking while learning about the local ecosystem and wildlife. The Crystal Springs area is surrounded by numerous rivers, lakes, and springs, providing excellent opportunities for canoeing and kayaking in addition to fishing for species such as bass and catfish. With several local restaurants and farms in the surrounding area of Crystal Springs, there is plenty to do and see in this lively scenery.
Facebook
X
Pinterest
Copy Link
