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St Augustine’s Real Estate, Then & NowFall 2023Pg.6Pg.17Pg.14
200 Center Creek Road(Lewis Spreedway. One block north of entrance to St. Augusne High School)2303 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd.(4 blocks South from SR16, across the street from the Shell-Mart)904.342.5609VISIT US AT EITHER OF OUR STORE LOCATIONSWe accept All Synchrony Home Accounts Special Financing, Zero Interest up to 60 MonthsSt. Augusne’s Best Selecon of Furniture“White Glove Delivery Service”
WELCOME LETTERThe fall holiday season holds a special place in our hearts for its enchanting tapestry of colors and coziness. The crisp, invigorating air, ablaze with the vibrant hues of autumn leaves, paints a picturesque backdrop for gatherings with loved ones. It’s a time when the aroma of spiced treats and freshly baked pies lls the air, wrapping us in a comforting embrace. From the joy of carving pumpkins to the warmth of shared moments around a crackling bonre, an undeniable magic permeates this season, making it a time for gratitude, togetherness, and cherished memories.We’re deeply appreciative of the trust you’ve placed in us. Thank you for being an essential part of our story. As you ip through these pages, we hope you nd delight, inspiration, and helpful information to guide your journeys.Our customers and neighbors are the heartbeat of our profession, and we are endlessly grateful for your unwavering support and trust. Each of you represents a unique story, a journey we embark on together, aiming to nd not just a house but a place you can call home. Your condence in our expertise and dedication is a profound honor. It’s the trust you place in us, allowing us to guide you through one of life’s most signicant decisions, that lls us with gratitude. Your dreams, aspirations, and the faith you place in our service fuel our commitment to go above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction and happiness. The relationships built with each of you extend far beyond a transaction; you become part of a valued family, a testament to the trust and support you have granted us.Jena Dennis, Proprietress Great Expectations Realty, Auction & Estate ServicesEstate Publishing Corp.PublisherCharles ZitsmanInfo@EstatePublishing.org(904) 377-5725Associate PublisherJena DennisContent CoordinatorMeeka CookPhotographic ContributionsOpen House Optics Real Estate Photography 406 Madruga Ave - St Augustine 904.505.3310Any content, articles, advertising, or any other submitted materials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Great Expectations Realty or Estate Publishing and shall not be held responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. 4-1123© 2023 Estate Publishing. All Rights Reserved.Table of CONTENTS05Preferred exPerT Index06The fIrsT MIlITIa: a hIsTory of The MIlITIa In florIda and The PosT of sT. francIs barracks10faTherhood In sT. augusTIne14decIPherIng The 2023 real esTaTe slowdown: whaT buyers and sellers need To know16new downTown coMMercIal lIsTIngs17culInary crossroads: chef barry honan’s Journey froM le bernardIn To loTus904-823-3456Great Expectations Realty4904-823-3456GErealty.US
Preferred Expert IndexCategory Company Contact Phone WebsiteFlood, Mold, Fire, Bio Hazard PuroClean of Jacksonville Wayne Terry 904-573-3566 PuroCleanof Jax.comFlooring About Floors n' More Rick Costner 904-361-3508 AboutFloorsnMore.comFurniture Everything Cool Gloria Wood 904-342-5609 1CoolStore.comInsurance Services The Browning Agency Jim Browning 904-285-3430 BrowningAgency.comMortgage Lending First Coast Mortgage Funding Amanda Solari 904-607-7187 SolariTeam.comMortgage Services VIP Mortgage Inc Michael Eddy 907-830-2424 MichaelEddy.VIPmtginc.comMoving & Storage Minorcan Moving Suzie Baker 904-824-3500 MinorcanMovers.comPest Control Stuart's Pest Control Stuart Colee 904-692-2565 CallStuarts.comPressure Wash & Paver Sealing McGee & Sons Services Patrick McGee 904-501-6192 McGeeandSonsServices.comPublic Adjusters Gold Star Adjustors Mark Goldwich 904-406-7232 GoldStarAdjusters.comPublishing & Printing Estate Publishing Corp Charles Zitsman 904-377-5725 EstatePub.comReal Estate, Businesses & Auctions Great Expectations Jena Baker-Dennis 904-823-3456 GErealty.usReal Estate Legal Services St. Johns Law Group Araan Burnett 904-495-0400 SJLaw Group.comRestaurant Raintree Restaurant Lorna McDonald 904-824-7211 RainTreeRestaurant.comRoong Big A Roong Austin Strickland 386-385-3985 BigARoong.conTitle Insurance Paradise Title Christina Guyette 904-471-2553 ParadiseTitleStAug.comTitle Service Land Title of America Steve Collins 904-797-9600 GoLandTitle.com5904-823-3456GErealty.US
THE FIRST MILITIA:Provided by Alison M. Simpson, Command Historian, Florida National Guarda hIsTory of The MIlITIa In florIda and The PosT of sT. francIs barracks St. Francis Barracks - mapThe men and women of the Florida National Guard trace their heritage to the rst muster of militia conducted in the continental United States on September 16, 1565. Approximately one week after Governor Pedro Menendez stepped ashore to claim the peninsula for Spain, he led 500 soldiers north toward present-day Jacksonville in pursuit of the French. Left behind in the new settlement were some 100 civilians, about 50 of whom, according to Spanish law, were liable for service in the malicia to defend the presidio should the need arise. In addition to craftsmen, laborers, farmers, and priests, the new community also included the wives and children of 26 soldiers. That tradition grew over the next 198 years of Spanish rule in Florida as the need for a malicia was proven by multiple attacks on this small outpost whose garrison was never manned at full strength. The property known as St. Francis Barracks serves as the headquarters for the Florida National Guard. Roughly the area from St. Francis Street to San Salvador Street and 6904-823-3456GErealty.US
from the Matanzas River to Charlotte Street, the rst buildings on site were erected around 1588 to serve as a chapel and friary for the Franciscan missionaries who came to Florida to Christianize the Native Americans. For the next 175 years, Franciscans lived, taught, ministered, died, and were buried on the property. In 1763, another tradition was begun when Florida became a British possession. The Franciscan chapel and convent were converted for use as a military barracks – St. Francis Barracks. For the next 20 years, battalions of the 60th Regiment of Foot, The Royal Americans, were assigned to town. They were supported by the local militia, The East Florida Rangers, comprised of Tory refugees from the north, free and enslaved blacks, and Native Americans. Although new in terms of British heritage, the citizen-soldiers of Florida played a signicant role in defending the borders of the colony against incursions of the revolutionaries in the north, who Mission Barrackswere seeking independence. The Rangers forced the revolutionary patriots to patrol their own territory rather than conduct raids into Florida. Following the departure of the British in 1784, Spain controlled 7904-823-3456GErealty.US
Florida for the next 37 years, and the Barracks remained a military headquarters for regiments of the regular army. Florida’s militia tradition reverted to its Spanish heritage and was augmented by several former British Loyalists, recent British immigrants, and new settlers from the American states. On July 10, 1821, Spain ofcially transferred ownership of Florida to the United States, and the St. Francis Barracks became U.S. federal property. The U.S. Army continued the tradition of using the St. Francis Barracks for the next 80 years, and volunteer militia units augmented the military force. The rst recorded volunteer unit in territorial Florida was the Florida Rangers, organized in St. Augustine on August 1, 1826. In 1907, the Florida National Guard leased the federal military reservation known as St. Francis Barracks and returned the state’s military headquarters to its colonial capital and hometown of the nation’s first militia. Since 1565, with the founding of St. Augustine, the citizen-soldiers of the nation’s oldest city have continuously served the citizens of this community, state, and nation proudly and with distinction. Today, St. Augustine is recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in what is now the continental United States. St Frances Barracks Courtesy of Library of CongressSt.Francis Street Courtesy Of Florida Memory8904-823-3456GErealty.US
FATHERHOOD IN ST. AUGUSTINEBy Townsend Russell of Great Expectations RealtyThis time of year is my absolute favorite in St. Augustine. Even as a kid growing up here, I always loved this season. This time of year means:• SAHS is making another deep run in the playoffs.• The weather is cooling down. • The winter crowds are not quite in full force yet. • And it’s food season. Desserts, Meals, treats,… the end of the year is always food heavy with no concerns about a summer beach-ready body!As a Dad, this is the time of year our family spends the most time downtown. We simply walk around and enjoy our beautiful city with less busy streets, no sweltering heat, and a nostalgic vibe that is in full bloom this time of year. We are not rushed; we meander aimlessly, reecting on what the shops and streets used to look like 20 years ago. We wander down the alleys and back roads we often forget about. In the summer, we are on the beach, letting the ocean breeze cool us down and keep the skeeters off us. We cool down in 10904-823-3456GErealty.US
the ocean when we get hot and let the waves beat our children into submission, so they sleep that deep, exhausted “I played hard today” sleep. In the fall, it’s long walks in Lincolnville, uptown, downtown, and everywhere in between. We marvel at the improvements to historic properties. We laugh as we share stories with our kids of being goofy teens embarrassing ourselves downtown. Games of tag in cemeteries, dares from friends with the sole purpose of embarrassment to the one being dared, and plenty of dates in the old city. Even as a young, married, broke couple, we lived in the old apartments near the Fountain of Youth and spent our date nights with a picnic by the Fort or snacking on the free samples on the First Friday Art Walks. As an inuencer in the Fatherhood space, I love seeing so many Dads and families doing the same thing this time of year. Families are downtown enjoying our town with no rush to escape the heat or the crowds. I love how our city fosters the perfect environment for families, especially in the fall. Our city provides endless ARE GRANDPARENTS MOVING TO BE CLOSER TO THEIR GRANDKIDS?During the pandemic, many people distanced themselves from their loved ones for health reasons. Grandparents were told to stay away from their grandkids, especially as schools started to open. That’s because it would have been risky to visit with their grandchildren who may have gotten sick from school.Now that the pandemic has passed, many grandparents want more than ever to be near their grandchildren again to make up for that lost time. But how are they getting that “Grandparent Wish?” The data tells us many are moving to make sure they’re getting more quality time.Based on this data, it’s fair to say many grandparents are getting their wish of more quality time with their grandchildren by moving to be closer to them. And after experiencing isolation and loneliness during the COVID pandemic, that’s an especially good thing.If you’re a grandparent, you know how important your grandchildren are. And you may be willing to sell and move just to be closer by. As Vance Cariaga, a journalist at Go Bank Rates, explains:“Never underestimate the power of grandchildren – especially when it comes to lifestyle and nancial decisions. Recent data shows that many baby boomers are relocating further away from home than they used to so they can be closer to their grandbabies.”Bottom LineThe data shows grandparents are moving further to be near their grandchildren. If you have grandchildren of your own, maybe you can relate. When you decide it’s time to be closer to your loved ones, let’s connect.Grandparents Are Moving To Be Near Loved OnesRecent data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows people between the ages of 55 and 74 are moving farther (more than 100 miles) than any other age group (see graph below):The average age of grandparents in the U.S. is 67 years. The logical leap is that at least some of the people who are moving the furthest are grandpar-ents. But what’s causing them to move so far? The same report from NAR shows the top reason people move is to be closer to loved ones (see graph below):11904-823-3456GErealty.US
Uptown Casual Dining102 San Marco Ave., | St. Augustine, Fl 32084 (904) 824-7211 | RaintreeRestaurant.comEnjoy Dining in Our Expansive CourtyardSunday Brunch | Dinner | Indoor Dining | Full Bar Free Parking Availablepaths to walk and enjoy the sights of not only our touristy areas but the neighborhoods as well. The city provides amazing treats and delicious meals nearly everywhere you look. Our city provides lessons of history, art, and culture woven throughout our town. Families bond over food, experiences, exercise, and education just by walking around this town. It’s no wonder why this real estate market is so strong. Selshly, I look around and want this town to stay small and the way it was when I was growing up. Nostalgia is powerful stuff. Heck, even with my kids, I look back and often wish I could relive those moments when they were little. I have this constant internal battle of loving the memories of their past while enjoying the present with them, not wanting to waste a second, and simultaneously being excited for the future. I have the same struggle with our town. The nostalgia is powerful, and I absolutely love the memories of what this city was for me growing up. At the same time, I enjoy it in its present state while also being excited about the improvement 100Dad.com Follow @100DadTownsendRussell.Realtor 1870RVResort.com the city, its business owners, and its residents are making. I know why people want to live here. I understand why people want to vacation here. I know why business owners want to set up shop here. It’s a great place. This time of year always reminds me of how great it is.-Townsend Russell 12904-823-3456GErealty.US
Recent TransactionsDowntown St. Augusne Historic DistrictStreet Bedrooms Bathrooms Sq Ft Sold $ Sold DateAbbo Tract 57 Water Street 4 3 3,427 $2,690,000 8/30/2023City St. Augusne 143 Washington St 4 2.5 2,875 $1,350,000 7/5/2023Abbo Tract 69 Abbo St 3 3.5 2,585 $1,000,000 7/7/2023Not Assigned-St. Johns 228 Charloe St 2 2 1,131 $995,000 7/19/2023City St. Augusne 312 St George St 3 3 2,017 $860,000 9/18/2023Model Land Co-St 58 Lemon St 3 2 1,683 $825,000 7/20/2023Nelmar Terrace 18 Beacon Street 3 2.5 1,820 $735,000 7/28/2023Model Land Co-St 97 ORANGE 5 2 1,984 $720,000 8/24/2023Rohde Addion 39 Rohde Ave 3 2.5 1,308 $715,000 7/5/2023Model Land Co-Fl 79 Orange Street 3 1.5 1,584 $715,000 9/5/2023DECIPHERING THE 2023 REAL ESTATE SLOWDOWN:whaT buyers and sellers need To knowAre you ready to decode the mysteries behind the 2023 real estate slowdown? Picture this: a market in ux, presenting challenges that buyers and sellers alike need to navigate. But fear not as we delve into the reasons behind this shift and provide you with actionable insights to transform challenges into opportunities in this evolving landscape. 1. Ever wondered how global economic uncertainties could inuence your real estate decisions? With uctuations impacting consumer condence, it’s time for buyers to exercise patience and due diligence. How can you turn this slowdown into an advantage? Take your time, conduct thorough research, and transform your property hunt into a savvy investment.2. Let’s talk rising mortgage rates – the elephant in the room.As borrowing costs increase, are you reevaluating your purchasing timeline or adjusting your budget? Rest assured, as we guide you through leveraging negotiating power. With the market favoring buyers, there’s room for discussion on price and terms. Feel empowered to navigate the slowdown with strategic negotiation. 3. Affordability challenges got you in a real estate conundrum?The surge in home prices and rising mortgage rates might be causing a pause. But here’s the silver lining: careful planning and accurate pricing can turn the tide for sellers. In a slower market, presenting your property accurately becomes paramount – avoid overpricing and focus on showcasing its best features. 4. Are oversupply and seasonal inuences in certain markets causing a hiccup in your real estate journey?Explore the tips tailored just for you. Meanwhile, let’s not forget the seasonal dance of the real estate market. In some regions, winter months might usher in a natural slowdown, but savvy buyers and sellers can use this time to their advantage.Tips for Buyers:1. Patience and Due Diligence:Given the slowdown, buyers have the opportunity to take their time and conduct thorough research. Careful consideration and comprehensive investigations in property selection can lead to better long-term investments.2. Leverage Negotiating Power:With the market favoring buyers, there may be more room for Contributed by: Vanessa England, Realtor at Great Expectations Realty14904-823-3456GErealty.US
negotiation on price and terms. Buyers should feel empowered to discuss potential concessions or adjustments.Buyers, it’s your time to shine! Patience is your ally, and due diligence is your superpower. Take a breath, conduct research, and transform this slowdown into a strategic move. Tips for Sellers:1. Accurate Pricing and Presentation:In a slower market, pricing a property accurately becomes paramount. Avoid overpricing and focus on presenting the property in its best light through staging and minor improvements.2. Marketing Strategy:Sellers should work closely with their real estate agents to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy. This could include targeted advertising, virtual tours, and highlighting unique features of the property.Sellers, accurate pricing, and a stellar presentation are your secret weapons. Collaborate with your real estate agent to craft a marketing strategy that showcases distinctive attributes of your property. In conclusion, the 2023 real estate slowdown isn’t a roadblock; it’s a path full of twists and turns. Embrace the challenges and seize the opportunities. Patience, careful planning, and strategic decision-making will be vital in navigating this evolving market. By understanding the factors shaping the slowdown, you’re not just navigating the market; you’re conquering it. Making informed choices will help align your real estate goals. Cheers!15904-823-3456GErealty.US
NEW DOWNTOWN COMMERCIAL LISTINGS237 San Marco AveThis commercial investment opportunity is currently set up as a restaurant with a long-term tenant in place. The restaurant sits on a .19 lot with 11 parking spaces, currently. The building is 1,653 Square feet and has a full kitchen build-out with a hood vent, a bar area, a dining room, and two restrooms. The current Cap rate is 4.456%, and more details can be given with a signed Non-disclosure agreement. COSA Zoning is CM-2, which allows for uses such as restaurants, retail, ofces, and so much more! Price: $1,000,00056 Grove AveThis unique mixed-use investment opportunity includes four separate income-producing units in the heart of St. Augustine. This property sits just off US 1 and has visibility from the busy highway. The building has recently undergone signicant upgrades and has been remodeled with a restaurant on the rst oor, two residential 1BR Apartments upstairs, and a separate 2 BR/ 1 BA residential cottage sitting on .28 Acres. The restaurant has a long-term tenant in place, the two upstairs units are occupied with annual leases, and the cottage was being utilized as a short-term rental but was recently converted to a full-time tenant. Zoned CM-2, this property has so many options. Financials & Lease Terms available with an NDA. The current Cap Rate is 4.32%. Price: $2,399,00016904-823-3456GErealty.US
Chef Barry Honan, the mastermind behind Lotus in St. Augustine, is a culinary artist with a prestigious background. Trained in French cuisine and having honed his skills at the world-renowned 3-star Michelin, Le Bernardin, Chef Honan is no stranger to the upper echelons of the culinary world. His mentorship under Chef Eric Ripert is a testament to his dedication to culinary excellence.Welcome to St. Augustine, Chef Honan! We’re thrilled to have you. Can you share how you ended up in our charming city?“St. Augustine has always been close to my heart. I’ve lived here intermittently since before my time in NYC. My goal with Lotus is to bring something truly special to this town.”Your menu at Lotus reects a lot of thought and preparation. What experience do you want your diners to take away?“At Lotus, we strive to offer a unique dining experience, blending meticulous Japanese Omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) with my French culinary background. The CULINARY CROSSROADS:CHEF BARRY HONAN’S JOURNEY FROM LE BERNARDIN TO LOTUSContributed by Jena Dennis of Great Expectations Realty17904-823-3456GErealty.US
attention to detail in every aspect is paramount for us.”What’s your favorite dish at Lotus, and why?“Each dish at Lotus undergoes rigorous development. I’m quite particular about our menu – if a dish doesn’t have a compelling story or meet our high standards, it doesn’t make the cut.”What’s the most challenging aspect of sourcing and preparing your dishes?“Sourcing ingredients, especially from Japan, presents unique challenges. It’s a critical part of our process. For example, we import A5 wagyu beef directly from Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan.”About Lotus Elevating Ramen to a different level! Lotus is the creative obsession of Chef Barry Honan and has a style described as Modern Japanese integrated with French techniques.It’s a journey through the creative mind of a storyteller-chef, with each plate being a delightful surprise of avors, textures, and visual composition rooted in a sense of constant evolution.Utilizing an appreciation for simplicity and beauty, Lotus showcases the seasonal bounty from local farms and exquisite products direct from Japan.18904-823-3456GErealty.US
KATIE LEMELINClosing OfficerTHOMAS SHARPEClosing OfficerYOU CAN CLOSE YOUR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS WITH OUR LAW FIRM OVERSEEN BY A GROUP OF ATTORNEYS AT TITLE COMPANY PRICES.
Fall 2023