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Estate Life of St Augustine

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Message Estate Life of ST AUGUSTINEPresented by CENTURY 21 St. Augustine PropertiesSummer 2025Living Large With Large Lot Es tate HomesDoes Your Current Home… Fit Your Current LiFestYLe?WiLL You Want a smaLLer Home aFter retirement?Page 9use Your Home equitY to HeLp FueL Your retirement

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Estate Publishing Corp.PublisherCharles ZitsmanInfo@EstatePublishing.org(904) 377-5725Associate PublisherDirk SchroederContent CoordinatorMeeka CookAny content, articles, advertising, or any other submitted materials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Century 21 St. Augustine Properties or Estate Publishing (EP). SP or EP shall not be responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. 13-0625© 2025 Estate Publishing. All Rights Reserved.TABLE OF CONTENTS05PREFERRED EXPERT INDEX06THE CASE FOR DOWNSIZING: WHEN LESS REALLY IS MORE10WHY MOVING TO A SMALLER HOME AFTER RETIREMENT MAKES LIFE EASIER12NATURE, PRIVACY, AND CHARM AT 3649 LONE WOLF TRAIL14WHY OAKBROOK STANDS OUT: SPACE, SERENITY, AND SMART VALUE16HOW HOME EQUITY CAN HELP FUEL YOUR RETIREMENT(904) 797-6000Welcome to yet another Edition of ESTATE LIFE magazine – the premier resource for property owners of Large Lot properties on the mainland of St. Augustine. Your subdivisions are some of the most desirable since “they just don’t make them like that anymore!” Today, the largest lot you see in new subdivisions might be an 85 x 130 (there’s only one of those). Half an Acre – unheard of! One Acre – forget about it!We’ve not only sold your subdivisions since they were platted in the 1980s, but we also developed Cypress Point (Colonial Farms) and Cypress Point II. We can remember selling some of those lots for $25,000 that are now bringing $250,000 in some cases.ESTATE LIFE is more popular today than ever before, and even though it may be a Buyer’s market, your subdivisions may buck some of these trends, especially if you’ve been updating and upgrading your home over the years. For many of you, you may be on your third roof or your fourth A/C, and you may have replaced your septic tank and drain eld, re-piped, or had to upgrade your breaker panel. You have done all the right things to make your home stand out. When it’s time to make improvements, we recommend the vendors in this magazine. When it’s time to sell, call us at 904-797-6000. If you know a Realtor, you may want a second opinion (even when you already know us) – it’s the smart thing to do! Have a wonderful storm-free Summer!Dirk Schroeder Gloria Worley Tanya LiebalCENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesIT’S SUMMER OF 2025 AND ESTATE LIFE IS GOOD!4CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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Category Company Contact Phone Website EmailChiropracc Services Pain Relief Centre Sco Fechter 904-823-8833 ChiropractorsStAugusne.com Sfechter@ChiropractorsStAugusne.comFinancing Stockton Mortgage Rick Forbrich 904-813-4431 Stockton.com Rick.Forbrich@Stockton.comFlood-Mold-Fire-Bio HazardPuroClean Emergency Services Wayne Terry 904-573-3566 PuroCleanES.com Wterry@PuroClean.comFlooring About Floors n' More Rick Costner 904-361-3508 AboutFloorsnMore.com Rick@AboutFloorsnMore.comHome Loans New American Funding Stone Keefauver 321-295-6656 NAF.com/stoneKeefauver Stone.K@NAFinc.comInsurance First Florida Insurance Norman Sapp 904-342-8115 FirstFloridaInsurance.com Norman@FirstFloridaInsurance.comLegal Estate Planning Mark E Parsons Ay Mark Parsons 904-826-3445 MarkParsonsLaw.com Mark@MarkParsonsLaw.comPest Control Stuarts Pest Control Debi Colee 904-692-2565 CallStuarts.com StuartsPestControl@gmail.comPharmacy / Drug Store St Johns Community Pharmacy Mark Sco 904-460-1000 StJCP.commark@stjohnscommunitypharmacy.comReal Estate ServicesCentury 21 St. Augusne ProperesOce 904-797-6000 C21StAug.com C21StAug@aol.comRestaurant Raintree Restaurant Lorna McDonald 904-824-7211 RaintreeRestaurant.com RainTreeEmail@AOL.comRoong Sunshine Roof Services Chuck Pace 904-794-7100 SunshineRoofServices.com SunshineRoofservices@gmail.comSepc, Wells and Electric Flamingo Sepc and Ulies Heather Mullis 904-222-7456 CallFlamingo.com Heather@FlamingoSepcTanks.comTitle Insurance Land Title of America Steve Collins 904-797-9600 GoLandTitle.com Stephen@GoLandTitle.comTitle Service Paradise Title Chrisna Guyee 904-471-2553 ParadiseTitleStAug.com Chrisna@paradisetlestaug.comTitle Services Acon Title Craig Herzog 904-797-4777 AconTitleStJohns.com Craig@AconTitleStJohns.com5904-797-6000Century21

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For many retirees, the home that once bustled with family activity can begin to feel too large—and increasingly expensive.“Many of these folks are in homes that are 3,000 square feet or more,” says Dirk Schroeder. “The kids are gone, and it’s just two people now (sometimes a dog or cat or two). Maintaining all that space gets to be very taxing—not just the grounds, but the house itself.”This is especially true in estate-style subdivisions, where large homes on sprawling lots were once the dream. But in retirement, the priorities shift – it gets to be a lot of work.“Even with tax caps like Florida’s 3% Save Our Homes protection, you’re still paying signicant taxes,” Schroeder explains. “At a time when you want to cut back on expenses, downsizing makes nancial sense. You can tap into your equity and move into something smaller and more manageable – maybe even a condo – with or without going mortgage-free.” Beyond lifestyle changes, many Floridians overlook a signicant nancial incentive when downsizing: “portability real estate tax credit.”“Most people don’t even realize they have what I call pent-up portability credit,” says Schroeder. “It’s the difference between what you should have been taxed at (market value) and what you are being taxed at (assessed value), thanks to the .”This credit appears on your property tax bill and can be transferred to a new primary residence in Florida. “It’s a huge savings,” he explains. “You might buy a $450,000 home, but once the portability credit is applied, your taxable value can be modied to be calculated much lower. The Property Appraiser’s ofce will gladly help you work on the calculations.”Schroeder speaks from experience. “When we became empty nesters, we used the credit and got a huge real estate tax break. It’s one of the great perks of living in Florida.”While many retirees downsize, others are resizing—adjusting to changing family needs.“I have a woman moving here from California with her elderly parents,” says Schroeder. “She didn’t want acreage, but she did want a large enough home—about 3,000 square feet - for everyone to live comfortably together. In another case, elderly neighbors are selling to move closer to their son in North Carolina.”This trend of  is becoming more common and reects how family structures are evolving.When your current home no longer ts your lifestyle, the good news is that there are plenty of alternatives.“There are great options when you realize you’ve got more space than you need,” says Schroeder. “Many people are drawn to new construction—whether a single-family home, townhouse, or condo—because there’s little upkeep for the next 10 to 15 years. That’s peace of mind.”Among popular choices? Condominiums—especially on the mainland: reduced fear of ooding and hurricanes, and nothing to maintain except the inside of the condo.“Island condos come with higher insurance premiums, and some are now facing assessments due to the Surfside regulations,” Schroeder explains, referencing state-mandated engineering studies and milestone inspections. “That’s why many prefer the affordability and stability of mainland options. Many Island condos are over 20 & 25 years old and subject to engineering studies.”• Grand Ravine: New concrete block construction with garages, mid-$400,000s. Resales from the mid $350’s.•  Stylish condos with attached garages. From the mid $350’s•  Priced between the mid-$200,000s and $300,000s.• : “You might even score a river view for around $200-250,000,” says Schroeder.From reduced maintenance to better insurance rates, right-sizing can offer a thoughtful solution without sacricing comfort or lifestyle. In Florida, choosing where to live in retirement is as much about lifestyle as it is about location.“There are so many options now for that carefree retirement living,” says Schroeder. “New townhomes close to town, some under $300,000—it really opens up possibilities.”For many, Southern St. Augustine offers a slower pace. “Sure, trafc has increased a little,” he admits, “but it’s nothing like downtown and beachside, where you’re ghting for parking in your own development and struggling just to pull out on the main roads.”6CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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Still, some will never leave the island. “There are die-hard Islanders who simply won’t come off,” he says. “I get it—it gets into your blood.”Schroeder, a mainlander himself, appreciates the trade-off. “We’re 10 or 15 minutes from the beach. And honestly, most island residents still drive to the beach unless they live East of A1A.”He also sees a difference in feel. “Southern St. Johns County has space and calm. Northern parts are heavily populated - house after house. And many newer developments lack a true sense of place. In traditional cities, there’s a center, a steeple. But some places now feel like endless rooftops.”While affordability is often a key factor in retirement decisions, Schroeder encourages buyers to look beyond the price tag.“People say, ‘I can get a house for less in Palm Coast,’ and I tell them, ‘Great—let me know when you nd downtown Palm Coast,’” he jokes. “It’s a manufactured community without a real town center. And that lack of a core can leave you feeling like something’s missing.”That’s why lifestyle should lead the search. “The best thing you can do is make two lists—needs and wants,” Schroeder advises. “Focus on the needs rst. Then see how many wants t within your price range. That will naturally shape your best options.”Additionally, the right real estate partner can make all the difference. “You need someone who understands your stage of life and is willing to talk through the little things that can affect how you feel in different places.”One of the biggest surprises in the home search? It’s not always about downsizing.Schroeder says, “Some people have had a vacation home here for years 7904-797-6000Century21

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and are now looking for their forever home. They may have been in a 1,600-square-foot patio home, but now they want more—a large kitchen, a great view, maybe a half-acre lot.”He’s working with a couple who thought they knew the area—until a simple drive changed everything. “They’d never heard of Oak Brook. We drove through, and right there on Kings Road South, we saw a baby deer being born. It was magic. That moment sealed it—they knew Oakbrook was going to be home.”That’s why Schroeder believes the search should start broad.“Take a tour. Explore neighborhoods. People will tell you what they don’t like, but more importantly, they’ll discover what they do like,” he explains. “Once we have their preferences—three beds, two baths, maybe a three-car garage—we can match that with the areas that feel right to our buyers.”Too often, buyers miss out because their realtor never shows them the whole picture.“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, ‘If I’d known this place existed, I would’ve bought here,’” Schroeder says.His approach is different. “Start macro. Show them the communities. Let them feel the lifestyle. Then narrow it down. That’s how you help someone nd a house and the right place to call home.”Hidden GemsWhile many buyers begin their search online or by casually driving around, Schroeder says that only reveals part of the picture.“Some of the best communities just aren’t visible unless you know where to look,” he explains. “Oakbrook is tucked away. Prairie Creek and Sea Pines—you can’t even access them without a realtor. These aren’t places you stumble on. But once people see them, it’s like a lightbulb goes off. They say, ‘Wow, I’d love to be here.”Even seasoned visitors are often surprised. “Parts of St. Augustine Shores have homes approaching a million dollars—and they’re not even waterfront. People just don’t realize the variety and values out there.”And now, Schroeder says, might be the ideal time to explore those possibilities.“We’re seeing a shift from a seller’s market to a buyer’s market,” he notes. “There’s more inventory, more negotiating power, and sellers are offering incentives like rate buy-downs or closing cost assistance.”Ultimately, it comes down to timing, trust, and being open to discovery. And if you’re waiting for interest rates to go down, you need to get used to rates in the 6% range to be the new normal.“As much as we call it a ‘home,’ it’s also a product,” Schroeder says. “Our job is to help people navigate both the emotional and nancial sides of the decision—so they can nd the place that’s truly right for them.”8CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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Stockton Mortgage NMLS 8259 I Equal Housing Lender I nmlsconsumeraccess.org4101 E. Moody Blvd. Ste 218 Bunnell, FL 32110. This is not a commitment to lend. Qualifications apply. See representative for details.Q: What makes downsizing different from other home transitions?A: Downsizing isn’t just a move—it’s a lifestyle shift. Many clients want simplicity, comfort, and smart financial planning. I help them explore options, whether that’s using equity from a long-time home or financing a low-maintenance condo or townhome.Q: How do you help guide people through that process?A: I believe in clarity and connection. I don’t throw out jargon or push cookie-cutter solutions. Instead, I ask the right questions, listen to what really matters to the client, and build a financing plan that fits their lifestyle today and in the years to come.Q: What do clients appreciate most when working with you?A: Honestly? I make it easy and even fun. Home financing doesn’t have to be intimidating. I keep communication clear, timelines tight, and bring a little humor (and maybe a kilt) along the way.Q: Any advice for someone starting to think about downsizing?A: Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed. Reach out early, even if you’re just exploring. A quick conversation can open your eyes to possibilities you didn’t know existed. And remember: downsizing doesn’t mean downgrading. It’s about freedom, flexibility, and finding a space that suits your life today.Helping clients downsize with confidence.Featuring: Rick Forbrich NMLS 1293091 VP of Sales at Stockton MortgageRick Forbrich NMLS 1293091, VP of Sales at Stockton Mortgage904.813.4431 | rick.forbrich@stockton.com“I don’t just close it, I kilt it!”

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Retirement is a time for relaxation, adventure, and enjoying the things you love. As you imagine this exciting new chapter in your life, it’s important to think about whether your current home still ts your needs. If it’s too big, too costly, or just not convenient anymore, downsizing might help you make the most of your retirement years. To nd out if a smaller, more manageable home might be the perfect t for your new lifestyle, ask yourself these questions:• Do the original reasons I bought my current house still stand, or have my needs changed since then?• Do I really need and want the space I have right now, or could somewhere smaller be a better t?• What are my housing expenses right now, and how much do I want to try to save by downsizing?If you answered yes to any of these, consider the benets that come with downsizing.There are many reasons why you should downsize. Here are just a few:10CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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If those perks sound like something you’d want, you may already have what you need to make it happen. A recent article from Seniors Guide shares:“And at a time when homeowners age 62 and older have more than $12 trillion in home equity, downsizing makes sense . . .”If you’ve been in your house for a while, odds are you’re one of those homeowners who’s built up a considerable amount of equity. And that equity is something you can use to help you buy a home that better ts your needs today. Greg McBride, Chief Financial Analyst at Bankrate, explains:“Downsizing can mean taking that equity when the home is sold and using it to pay cash or make a large down payment on a lower-priced home, reducing your monthly living expenses.”When you’re ready to use all that equity to fuel your next move, your real estate agent will be your guide through every step of the process. That includes setting the right price for your current house when you sell, nding the home that best ts your evolving needs, and understanding what you can afford at today’s mortgage rate.Starting your retirement journey? Think about downsizing – it could really help. When you’re ready, let’s connect.11904-797-6000Century21

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Presented by Gloria WorleyTucked inside the gated, tree-lined community of  in St. Augustine, offers the best of Florida living—privacy, space, and natural beauty.Set on , this home is part of a serene, exclusive neighborhood where mature oak trees canopy the roads and preserved green space stretches behind the property.“It’s one of those places where serenity takes over the minute you drive in,” says agent Gloria Worley. “It feels like the country, but you’re in a gated community. You’re close to town, but it’s so peaceful—it’s the best of both worlds.”Prairie Creek is known for its  layout, 24-hour guard gate, and winding streets shaded by majestic oaks and ornamental trees. It’s truly private. You won’t see trafc here unless someone has a reason to be there.The large lots—or more—offer a level of privacy and quiet that’s rare in newer developments.“You’re not passing your neighbor a cup of sugar through the window,” Gloria laughs. “And the homes don’t all look the same. Unlike some new builds, this place has personality.”Most homes were built in the 1980s and 1990s with craftsmanship in mind: brick exteriors, wood-beamed ceilings, and thoughtfully designed oor plans.While this home is , it also leaves room for customization.“You might want to update ooring or make a few cosmetic changes,” Gloria says. “But the bones are beautiful, and everything essential is already updated.”Currently, there’s  in Prairie Creek—listed at over $1 million.“That makes this home an incredible value,” says Gloria. “Especially considering what it offers.”“It’s not just a house—it’s a lifestyle. It’s quiet. It’s safe. It’s full of wildlife and nature. And homes like this, in neighborhoods like Prairie Creek, don’t come on the market often.” 3649 LONE WOLF TRAIL, this 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offers space, comfort, and standout features:• Over 3,000 square feet of living space• Metal roof with 80-year warranty• Updated HVAC and appliances• Private pool• Decks overlooking preserve land:• His-and-hers closets• Walk-in sauna• Sunken spa tub and separate shower:• Formal dining room (currently used as an ofce)• Large open kitchen with eat-in space• Wood-burning replace• Real wood beams12CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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Lovely Prairie Creek gated community with 24-hour security. This home sits on a 1.2-acre lot under a canopy of majestic oak and ornamental trees, with a serene preserve and creek backdrop—offering exceptional privacy in a quiet, upscale neighborhood. A true St. Augustine gem and a rare nd near historic downtown, sandy white beaches, top-rated restaurants, and fantastic shopping.The spacious open oor plan offers over 3,000 square feet, with 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths—all on one level. The oversized master suite features cathedral ceilings, auto- light walk-in closets, a Jacuzzi tub, and a sauna. The family room includes a cozy wood-burning replace, and the recently updated, extra-large kitchen/dining area boasts a new cooktop, in-wall oven, abundant cabinetry, and generous counter space. Skylights in the dining area overlook the crystal-clear pool and lush preserve.Large, screened decks surround the pool—perfect for outdoor entertaining. Recent upgrades include a newer refrigerator, freezer, washer and dryer, dishwasher, two new A/C units with updated air handlers, and one new and one updated hot water tank. Anderson insulated impact windows. A ve-year-old and an 80-year-old warranted metal roof. Oversized two-and-a-half-car garage. Generator hookup is in place.The home is built on a full crawl space (not slab) and features a solid real brick exterior. A newly installed 200-foot artesian well provides fresh water. Prairie Creek runs along the entire backyard boundary, and the adjacent preserve is protected and cannot be developed.13904-797-6000Century21

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In the heart of the 32086 zip code, Oakbrook attracts buyers looking for something increasingly rare: .“It’s one of the few neighborhoods in this area where half-acre lots are standard,” says Aaron Petty. “Most new construction offers a quarter-acre—if that.”Homes here are also known for being well-maintained, thanks to long-time residents who reinvest in their properties.“We see a lot that have been re-plumbed, have newer ACs, roofs—people take care of their homes,” adds Marc Trimboli.Another advantage? Low HOA —around $90 to $100 monthly—and .“You still get a clubhouse, a park, and a welcoming vibe,” Aaron says. While Oakbrook remains highly desirable, the broader market is shifting.“We’re moving into a buyer’s market,” Marc notes. “Inventory’s up across St. Johns County, so homes sit longer. But Oakbrook still has lower inventory than most.”Oakbrook attracts a particular type of buyer—one seeking  in an established neighborhood. “You need a buyer looking for a property like this,” says Aaron Petty. “It’s not for someone chasing the latest cookie-cutter build on a tiny lot. It’s a niche—but bigger than people think.”Marc Trimboli agrees, noting that Oakbrook hits a sweet spot for .“If someone’s earning around $80K to $150K, Oakbrook is doable,” he says. “But the next step up—new construction in a luxury community—usually requires double that.”“It’s a step-up neighborhood that doesn’t force you to overstretch,” Aaron adds.Beyond price, lifestyle needs play a bigger role in today’s market.“Buyers are more specic,” Aaron notes. “Just today, someone told me she had to be within ve minutes of beach access. That was non-negotiable.”“That’s the challenge,” Marc says. “In a buyer’s market, people aren’t just shopping for a house—they’re looking for a very specic lifestyle.”One of Oakbrook’s most unique traits? Many buyers don’t even know it exists—until they see it.“You don’t just stumble into Oakbrook,” says Aaron Petty. “It’s about a mile off any main road. You’ve got to be shown it—and that’s part of its charm.”Realtors like Aaron and Marc often introduce it to buyers who haven’t heard of it but are looking for space, privacy, and mature trees.“We’ll ask, ‘Have you considered Oakbrook?’” says Marc Trimboli. “They usually haven’t. But once they’re in the car and see it for themselves, that’s when the magic happens.”The drive in sets the tone.“You pass quiet streets like Cherry Tree and Oak Ridge, and then—bam—you turn into Oakbrook,” Aaron says. “It’s like entering a whole new world.”That surprise is often what seals the deal.“We hear it all the time: ‘I had no idea this was back here,’” Marc adds. “Suddenly, you’re surrounded by beautiful homes, a clubhouse, and a sense of calm that people instantly connect with.”“Oakbrook is the kind of place people fall in love with—once they see it,” says Aaron. “The challenge is just getting them to go.”Oakbrook isn’t just about location and lot size—it’s a neighborhood that feels like home the moment you enter.“The architecture is pure Americana,” says Aaron Petty. “Tree-lined streets, homes with charm—it’s the kind of place where you half expect ‘Leave It to Beaver’ to walk out the front door.”That character is intentional. Unlike many modern communities built by a single developer, Oakbrook was designed to allow custom builds, creating natural variety.“The main developer, Bodhi, did some early homes,” explains Marc Trimboli. “But they didn’t dominate it. People brought in their own builders, so there’s a real mix.”Marc points out that the Bodhi-built homes, typically stucco, stand alongside uniquely crafted houses—adding personality without uniformity.“The Bodhi homes were well built,” he says. “But that custom blend is what makes Oakbrook feel alive.”“You drive through and it’s just different,” Aaron adds. “It’s comfortable and classic.”Oakbrook’s charm isn’t just in the architecture—it’s in how distinct each home feels.“Even among the stucco homes, nothing is repetitive,” says Marc Trimboli. “The spacing, the colors, the designs—they’re different enough that it never feels cookie-cutter.”Why Oakbrook Stands Out: Space, Serenity, and Smart Value14CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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That’s a rarity in modern developments.“In some neighborhoods, you could wander lost for blocks,” says Aaron Petty. “In Oakbrook, you can say, ‘Turn left at the house with the big storm shutters.”That sense of uniqueness helps buyers feel connected quickly.“It’s a real neighborhood,” Aaron adds. “Not four oorplans painted fteen different ways.”And it’s why Aaron and Marc focus on Oakbrook in their real estate work“This neighborhood doesn’t sell itself online,” Marc explains. “You’ve got to show it—get people to drive it, walk it, feel it.”Aaron adds. “We believe in Oakbrook. And that passion helps us nd the right match for the right buyer.”For Aaron Petty and Marc Trimboli, promoting Oakbrook starts with nding the right t.“First, you qualify the buyer,” says Aaron. “Once you know Oakbrook ts—space, privacy, an established feel—the next step is getting them out to see it. That’s where the magic happens.”Oakbrook isn’t typically for rst-time buyers—it’s for those looking to move up.“Most are homeowners who’ve built equity and want their next level of quality and space,” Marc explains.To reach them, Aaron and Marc use a targeted, :•  to identify households likely to sell and move up•  to start the conversation•  to keep Oakbrook top of mind“Some people check email, others respond to mail, and everyone’s on their phone,” says Aaron. “We layer the messaging across platforms.”The strategy is simple: connect the right people with the right product.“We believe in Oakbrook,” Marc says. “That comes through in how we market it—whether it’s email, social ads, or just a drive down Kings Road. We want people to see, feel, and fall in love with it like we have.”15904-797-6000Century21

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If retirement is on the horizon, now’s the time to start thinking about your next chapter. And you probably want to make sure you’re set up to feel comfortable nancially to live the life you want in retirement.What you may not realize is you likely have a hidden goldmine of cash you’re not thinking about — and that’s your home. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows that home values have gone up nearly 60% over the last 5 years alone (see graph below):16CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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And that appreciation gave your net worth a big boost. According to Freddie Mac, over the same ve-year period:“ . . . Boomer overall wealth increased by $19 trillion, or $486,000 per household, half of which is due to house price appreciation.”So if you’ve been in your house ever longer than that, chances are you have even more equity in your home. If you want to have access to more of the wealth you’ve built up throughout the years, it’s worth thinking about selling your house to downsize.Selling now so you can downsize into a smaller home, or maybe one in a more affordable area, could free up your home equity so you can use a portion of it to help you feel condent retiring. Whether you want to travel, spend more time with family, or just feel nancially secure, accessing the equity in your home can make a huge difference. As Chase says:“Retirement is an exciting time. Selling your home to take advantage of the equity or to downsize to a more affordable home can open up additional options for your future.”Here are just a few of the ways a smaller home can fuel your retirement:Data from the AARP shows the number one reason adults 50 and older move is 17904-797-6000Century21

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to reduce their cost of living. Downsizing to a smaller house or relocating to a more affordable area can help you lower your monthly expenses — like utilities, property taxes, and maintenance costs.A smaller home often means less upkeep and fewer responsibilities. That can free up your time and energy to focus on the things that matter most in your retirement.Selling your current house gives you access to your equity, turning it into cash you can use however you like. Whether it’s investing, paying off debt, or creating a nancial cushion, it can open up new opportunities for your future.If you think you may be interested in downsizing, working with a real estate agent is your next step. Your agent will help you understand how much equity to have and how you can use it. But they’ll do more than that. They’ll also help you navigate the entire process of selling your current home and nding a new one, so you can transition smoothly into a new home and a new phase of life.If you’re planning to retire in 2025, now may be the perfect time to downsize and unlock the equity you’ve built up in your home. Let’s start planning your move now, so you’re set up to make every day feel like a Saturday.18CENTURY 21 St Augustine PropertiesCENTURY21

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Summer 2025Estate Life of ST AUGUSTINEPam Gesell – Licensed Title AgentKim Collins – Licensed Title AgentChristina Guyette – Licensed Title AgentKayla Beaver – Settlement AgentSuzanne Gonzalez - AdministratorMorton Manassaram- Owner2225 A1A South, Suite C8 St. Augustine, FL 32080701 Market Street, Suite 111, Saint Augustine, Florida 32095www.paradisetitelstaug.com904-471-2553BUYING, SELLING OR REFINANCING?For all your commercial and residential title needs.• Professionalism• Accuracy• Problem SolvingSIMPLY THE BEST!