Living in History Summer 2024 : simplebooklet.com

WELCOME LETTERDear Readers,As we enjoy the vibrant summer season in the historic downtown St. Augustine, I am delighted to welcome you to our latest issue. Our community, rich in culture and history, is bustling with opportunities for both residential and commercial investments. The St. Augustine real estate market continues to thrive, showcasing resilience and growth. Residential properties are still in demand, with families and individuals seeking the charm and convenience of our downtown area. From historic homes to modern condos, the variety and quality of living spaces cater to diverse preferences and needs.Commercial real estate is equally promising. Our downtown area, known for its bustling tourism and local businesses, presents numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors. Retail spaces, restaurants, and ofce buildings are seeing signicant interest, driven by a unique economy and a community eager to support local ventures.As we approach the upcoming election season, it’s important to consider how potential policy changes might impact our real estate market. Elections bring an opportunity for new developments and improvements in infrastructure, which can further enhance our beloved downtown area. Stay informed and engaged, as our choices today will shape our community’s future.Summer in St. Augustine is truly a special time. The warm weather invites us to explore our beautiful surroundings, from scenic beaches to charming streets lled with history. It’s also an excellent time for the real estate market, as many potential buyers and renters are actively searching for new homes and business locations during these sunny months.In these dynamic times, having a trusted partner in real estate is invaluable. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or invest, our team is here to provide expert guidance and personalized service. We are committed to helping you navigate the market with condence and success.Thank you for being a part of the St. Augustine community. Together, we can continue to make our downtown area a vibrant and thriving place to live, work, and invest.Warm regards,Jena DennisProprietress & BrokerGreat Expectations Realty904-806-4274Estate Publishing Corp.PublisherCharles ZitsmanInfo@EstatePublishing.org(904) 377-5725Associate PublisherJena DennisContent CoordinatorMeeka CookPhotographic Contributions The Real Estateographers 904-770-5262 TheRealEstateographers.comAny 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. 06-08-24© 2024 Estate Publishing. All Rights Reserved.Table of CONTENTS05Preferred exPerT Index06real esTaTe sTIll Holds THe TITle of besT long-Term InvesTmenT08new To real esTaTe InvesTIng?10masTerIng THe arT of real esTaTe12askIng THe rIgHT PrIce maTTers even more now14new lIsTIng - ecHoes of odd fellows Hall16saInT augusTIne Has skeleTons In ITs closeT18evenTs904-823-3456Great Expectations Realty4904-823-3456GErealty.US

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Preferred Expert IndexCategory Company Contact Phone WebsiteCommercial Photography The Real Estateographers Sco Golmic 904-770-5262 TheRealEstateographers.comFlood, 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.comHeang and Cooling Aire Serv Meichelle Richards 904-687-9296 AireServ.comInsurance Services The Browning Agency Jim Browning 904-285-3430 BrowningAgency.comMortgage Lending First Coast Mortgage Funding Amanda Solari 904-607-7187 SolariTeam.comMoving Services Happy 2 Help Moving Devin Vangel 304-209-9277 Happy2HelpMoving.netProperty Inspecons KC Inspecons Kyle Cali 904-404-9092 KCinspeconsFL.comPublic Adjusters Gold Star Adjustors Mark Goldwich 904-406-7232 GoldStarAdjusters.comPublishing & Prinng Estate Publishing Corp Charles Zitsman 904-377-5725 EstatePub.comReal Estate, Businesses & Aucons Great Expectaons Jena Baker-Dennis 904-823-3456 GErealty.usReal Estate Legal Services St. Johns Law Group Araan Burne 904-495-0400 SJLaw Group.comRestaurant Raintree Restaurant Lorna McDonald 904-824-7211 RainTreeRestaurant.comRoong Big A Roong Ausn Strickland 386-385-3985 BigARoong.conTitle Insurance Paradise Title Pam Gesell 904-471-2553 ParadiseTitleStAug.comTitle Service Land Title of America Steve Collins 904-797-9600 GoLandTitle.com5904-823-3456GErealty.US

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With all the headlines circulating about home prices and mortgage rates, you may be asking yourself if it still makes sense to buy a home right now or if it’s better to keep renting. Here’s some information that could help put your mind at ease by showing that investing in a home is still a powerful decision.According to the experts at Gallup, real estate has been crowned the top long-term investment for a whopping 12 years in a row. It has consistently beaten other investment types like gold, stocks, and bonds. Just look at the graph below – it speaks volumes:REAL ESTATE STILL HOLDS THE TITLE OF BEST LONG-TERM INVESTMENTContributed by Great Expectations Realty6904-823-3456GErealty.US

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But why does real estate continue to reign supreme as a top-notch long-term investment? It’s because, even today, buying a home can be your golden ticket to building wealth over time.Unlike other investments, which can feel like riding a rollercoaster with all the ups and downs and ongoing risk factors, real estate follows a more predictable and positive pattern.History shows home values usually rise. And while prices may vary by market, that means as time goes by, your house is likely to appreciate. And that helps you grow your net worth in a big way. As an article from Realtor.com explains:“Homeownership has long been tied to building wealth—and for good reason. Instead of throwing rent money out the window each month, owning a home allows you to build home equity. And over time, equity can turn your mortgage debt into a sizeable asset.” So, if you’re on the fence about whether to rent or buy, remember that real estate was consistently voted the best long-term investment for a reason. And if you want to get in on that action, it may make sense to go ahead and buy (if you’re ready and able).Bottom LineWhen it comes to building wealth that stands the test of time, real estate is the name of the game. If you’re ready to start your own homeownership journey, let’s connect today.7904-823-3456GErealty.US

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NEW TO REAL ESTATE INVESTING?Contributed by Townsend Russell, Great Expectations RealtyThe really good real estate investors have great stories about taking hits and losses. They learn from the school of whoops. Sometimes, the defeats are crushing, but more often than not, they are lessons in how to be better. I love investing because it is rarely straight forward. There’s real work to do, innite variables, and challenges that get my adrenaline going. I love talking to investors because those stories of mistakes are not only learning lessons for them but for me as well!I typically give new investors the same advice: Do it! Make sure you work the math and are prepared to do actual work. But do it! There are all sorts of ways to invest in real estate, including loaning the money, nding the deals, doing the work, coming up with the plan, nding cash ow, and developing. For new investors borrowing money, I stress math real hard. Know how much you are actually paying in interest. Structure the debt so that you 8904-823-3456GErealty.US

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can see it through to the end. It’s no fun to get to the end of a one-year rehab on a hard money loan and realize you spent a year pushing the work and are breaking even while the hard money lender made $25,000. Pay attention to things like tax bills that will increase, management fees, marketing costs, and tax rates on the fruits of your labor. Plan on taking longer than you expect and spending more than you expect. Plan on contractors not nishing or the people you pay delaying the project because of schedules. It happens. One wrinkle can push all contractors and wreck timelines. Build in margin for error and build in your time value. If you are doing labor, ensure you track and count those hours at a fair rate. It’s easy to not pay attention and run yourself ragged. Build loyalty with other industry pros. Relationships are huge in this business. They are how you nd deals and how you get squeezed into schedules. Be loyal to them, and they will often return the favor. This is no time to be passive, either. If you have deadlines, make sure you are rm and not getting walked over. Delays will happen, but if you are not on the ball, you become an easy project to kick down the schedule. Research zoning, land use, deed restriction, and neighborhood or jurisdiction rules on renting and building. Know the laws for dealing with tenants who won’t leave and squatting sellers. Lucky for us, we live in Florida, where we don’t have the crazy stories of other jurisdictions. Find a good background check system and have a pro review your lease agreements. There are all sorts of variables. It takes doing it to really grasp it all. So, align yourself with a pro and get started!9904-823-3456GErealty.US

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MASTERING THE ART OF REAL ESTATE:Contributed by Steve Walt, Broker at Great Expectations RealtyTHE INDISPENSABLE QUALITIES OF A CONTRACT-SAVVY AGENTIn the fast-paced and intricate realm of real estate, the role of a good agent goes far beyond just helping Customers buy or sell properties. Mastering the art of contracts is one of the most critical aspects of being a successful real estate agent. This article delves into the key qualities that make a real estate agent excellent and exceptional, particularly in their understanding and application of contract knowledge.1. Comprehensive Understanding of Real Estate Contracts:A good real estate agent possesses an in-depth understanding of the legalities and nuances of real estate contracts. This includes familiarity with state and local laws and a keen eye for detail to ensure that contracts are accurate, thorough, and legally sound.2. Effective Communication Skills:Contract negotiations require clear and concise communication. A skilled agent comprehends the complexities of contracts and can explain these intricacies to Customers in an easily understandable way. Open and transparent communication helps Customers feel condent and informed throughout the process.3. Negotiation Expertise:Negotiating terms within a real estate contract is an art form. Good agents have honed their negotiation skills to secure the best possible customer outcomes. This includes price negotiations and navigating contingencies, repairs, and other crucial elements of the contract.4. Attention to Legal Compliance:A web of legalities binds real estate transactions, and a good agent ensures strict adherence to all relevant laws and regulations. This includes compliance with fair housing laws, disclosure requirements, 10904-823-3456GErealty.US

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and other legal obligations to protect buyers and sellers.5. Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving:Real estate contracts often present challenges that require creative problem-solving. A good agent approaches these situations analytically, nding solutions that satisfy all parties involved. This skill is especially crucial when unexpected issues arise during the closing process.6. Continuous Education and Updates:The real estate landscape is dynamic, with laws and regulations constantly evolving. A top-tier agent is committed to continuous education, staying abreast of changes in the legal landscape, and ensuring their knowledge is always up to date.7. Meticulous Documentation:Accurate and meticulous documentation is the hallmark of a good agent. Attention to detail is paramount in everything from drafting contracts to maintaining records of all communications and negotiations. This protects customers and provides a solid foundation for any potential legal matters.8. Tech-Savvy Contract Management:Embracing technology is essential for modern real estate agents. Utilizing contract management software, electronic signatures, and other digital tools streamlines the contract process, making it more efcient and reducing the risk of errors.In conclusion, an excellent real estate agent with solid contract knowledge is a master of multiple disciplines. From legal expertise and negotiation skills to effective communication and adaptability, these qualities collectively contribute to the success of both the agent and their Customers. By embodying these traits, an agent can navigate the complexities of real estate transactions with nesse, ensuring a smooth and successful experience for all parties involved.11904-823-3456GErealty.US

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ASKING THE RIGHT PRICE MATTERS EVEN MORE NOWIf you’re thinking about selling your house, here’s something you really need to know. Even though it’s still a seller’s market today, you can’t pick just any price for your listing.While home prices are still appreciating, they’re climbing at a slower pace because higher mortgage rates are putting a squeeze on buyer demand. At the same time, the supply of homes for sale is growing. That means buyers have more options and your house may not stand out as much, if it’s not priced right.Those two factors combined are why the asking price you set for your house is more important today than it has been in recent years. Sellers are having to lower their prices because they haven’t adjusted their expectations to today’s market; or maybe they’re not working with an agent who prioritizes being a local market expert. If you want to avoid making a pricing mistake that could turn away buyers and delay your sale, you need to work with an agent who really knows your local market. If you lean on us at Great Expectations Realty we’ll help you avoid making mistakes like:12904-823-3456GErealty.US

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RESIDENTIALAddress Bed / Bath SqFt Lisng Price Closing Price Closing Date DOM*139 Marine St 3 / 2.5 3,246 $1,695,000 $1,650,000 4/16/2024 14420 Riberia St 4 / 3 2,293 $1,045,000 $980,000 5/2/2024 32562 Saragossa St 3 / 4 2,220 $979,000 $950,000 4/10/2024 1514 Saragossa St 4 / 3.5 2,582 $895,000 $888,500 5/23/2024 5190 Riberia Street 3 / 2.5 1,389 $799,900 $737,500 4/26/2024 20685 Park Place 3 / 2.5 1,858 $799,000 $1,034,000 6/18/2024 28247 Abbo St 2 / 1.5 1,356 $679,000 $650,000 5/29/2024 59135 Blanco Street 3 / 2 1,417 $659,000 $631,000 4/1/2024 158COMMERCIAL58 Charloe Street Retail 3,927 $3,500,000 $3,490,000 6/26/2024 378115 La Quinta Place Special Purpose 12,300 $2,000,000 $1,810,000 5/24/2024 581RECENT REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS* Days on MarketSetting a Price That’s Too High: Some sellers have unrealistic expectations about how much their house is worth. That’s because they base their price on their gut or their bottom line, not the data. An agent will help you base your price on facts, not opinion, so you have a better chance of hitting the mark.Not Considering What Houses Are Actually Selling for: Without an agent’s help, some sellers may use the wrong comparable sales (comps) in their area and misjudge the market value of their home.Overestimating Home Improvements: Sellers who have invested a signicant amount of money in home improvements may overestimate how much those upgrades affect their home’s value. While certain improvements can increase a home’s appeal, not all upgrades are going to get a great return on their investment. Ignoring Feedback and Market Response: Some sellers may be resistant to lowering their asking price based on feedback they’re getting in open houses. An agent will remind the seller how important it is to be exible and respond to market feedback in order to attract qualied buyers.In the end, accurate pricing depends on current market conditions – and only an agent has all the data and information necessary to nd the right price for your house. Our agents use their expertise to develop a pricing strategy that’s based on current market conditions and designed to get your house sold. To avoid making a costly mistake, let’s work together.13904-823-3456GErealty.US

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ECHOES OF ODD FELLOWS HALLNew Listing ray cHarles and THe rHyTHm of lIncolnvIlleContributed by Jena Dennis, Broker at Great Expectations RealtyRay Charles is remembered in St. Augustine as a student at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. FSDB isn’t the only place in St. Augustine where the late, great musical sensation left his mark.The condominiums at 92 Washington Street, formerly known as Odd Fellows Hall, have held everything from performances by history-making musical icons, such as Ray Charles and Little Richard, to high school proms and even a furniture store.Odd Fellows LodgeBuilt in 1908, the three-story building in Lincolnville was always meant to be a community meeting place. According to the Florida Master Site File, the rst oor was dedicated to a furniture store, while the second and third oors were reserved for the Odd Fellows Hall.The Independent Order of Odd Fellows was a group formed in 17th-century England.During that period, people faced many challenges like sickness, poverty, and insufcient law enforcement.To combat the misfortune, ordinary men and women from all walks of life came together to create a common fund to disperse among its members during their time of need. The society got its name because it was considered odd to behave in such a seless manner.Lincolnville Social HubIn addition to hosting meetings and other events of the Odd Fellows, the building also served as a social hub for Lincolnville, Call the Heating and Cooling Love Doctors904-687-9296AIRE SERV of SAINT AUGUSTINE is a locally owned and operated company that offers a variety of HVAC services for residential and commercial customers, including heating and air conditioning repair and replacement, duct cleaning and more.WE ALSO OFFER EMERGENCY HVAC SERVICES.Show Your A/C System Some LOVE!During this hot, muggy summer, you denitely don’t want that hard working air conditioning system to feel like you just don’t care.FOR ONLY $200 you get a check-up and a cleaning with lters TWICE A YEAR!1 – Before the Heating season 1 – Before the Cooling season.It doesn’t make a difference how old it is, your air conditioner needs to know how much you care… And this is how you show it:Our affordable Maintenance Package will make your climate control system run great year round!14904-823-3456GErealty.US

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where it used to host dances and other social events. In its prime, locals remember Ray Charles and other icons performing at the little building on Washington Street, which was considered a social gathering place from the ‘40s to the ‘60s.Club Turned CondominiumWhat was the premier hot spot for Lincolnville was brought down to studs in 2005 to be fully renovated, including a new sprinkler system, an elevator, and updated plumbing & electrical systems. Although the building has had a facelift, a few memories are placed throughout the building, including its original ceiling tiles that were preserved and now line the interior walls and the ofce where Ray Charles used to play his piano.Now, this unique property is the newest listing of Jena Dennis, of Great Expectations Realty, and boasts 6,900+/- sq. ft. of exible space, currently set up as three separate residential condominiums. Each oor offers endless possibilities, allowing you to rent them as-is or potentially transform them into a restaurant, retail space, ofces, or a combination of uses. The property features a rear elevator and a front grand staircase, providing easy access to all oors. Between the third oor and the expansive rooftop deck, there is a nished attic space for storage. The rooftop deck offers breathtaking views of the city, while balconies on the second and third-oor units provide additional outdoor space. Unit 1 spans 1,707 sq ft and includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a utility room, and an ofce. Unit 2, at 2,064 sq ft, is designed as an artist studio with a stage and includes three bedrooms and three bathrooms.Unit 3 offers 2,132 sq ft of living space with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The adjacent lot allows for 9 Parking Spaces, a rare nd in St. Augustine.The CL-1 zoning provides numerous development opportunities, allowing for a variety of commercial uses. Whether you envision a B&B, an art gallery, a mixed-use development, or maintaining the current condominium setup, the possibilities for this property are limited only by your imagination.15904-823-3456GErealty.US

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Sweet, innocent, and beautiful Saint Augustine, Florida, the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States, is a treasure trove of history. Beneath its charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings lie secrets waiting to be uncovered. Renovations across the city frequently result in remarkable discoveries: skeletal remains that offer a glimpse into the lives of its early history. These are some recent excavations.1. Charlotte Street, 2017In 2017, construction workers on Charlotte Street made a startling discovery: several burials believed to date back to the early Spanish colonial period. The remains, found in what was once a church cemetery, sparked excitement among archaeologists and historians, shedding light on the burial practices of the city’s rst European settlers.2. St. George Street, 2019Two years later, excavation at a construction site on St. George Street led to the unearthing of multiple burials. These remains, identied as likely dating from the First Spanish Period (1565-1763), provided valuable insights into the early colonial era. Each discovery piece helped ll in the historical puzzle of Saint Augustine’s past.3. Aviles Street, 2020During renovations near the historic Aviles Street in 2020, workers uncovered human remains from what SAINT AUGUSTINE HAS SKELETONS IN ITS CLOSET.Contributed by Townsend Russell, Great Expectations Realty16904-823-3456GErealty.US

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was thought to be a 16th-century cemetery associated with the early Spanish settlement. The ndings were a testament to the city’s long-standing historical signicance and the layers of history waiting to be explored.4. King Street, 2021In 2021, workers unearthed several burials while installing utility lines on King Street. Preliminary analysis suggested these remains belonged to Spanish settlers from the 17th century. This discovery highlighted the constant intersection of modern development and historical preservation in Saint Augustine.5. Hypolita Street, 2022During the renovation of a historic home on Hypolita Street in 2022, archaeologists discovered several burials from the late 1600s, likely from an early colonial cemetery. Each skeleton told a story, adding depth to the historical narrative of the early settlers’ lives and deaths.6. Treasury Street, 2023During the refurbishment of a historic building on Treasury Street in 2023, workers found several burials from the 17th century, likely part of an old cemetery. The discovery offered further insights into the city’s evolving landscape and its impact on historical sites.7. Tolomato Cemetery, 2024Most recently, in 2024, renovations at the Tolomato Cemetery uncovered previously unmarked graves with remains dating back to the early 1700s. This discovery emphasized the importance of ongoing archaeological work in preserving and understanding Saint Augustine’s rich heritage.These skeletal discoveries provide a fascinating look into the past and remind us of the importance of preserving history even as the city continues to grow and evolve. Each skeleton uncovered is a silent witness to the stories of those who walked the streets of Saint Augustine centuries ago, bridging the gap between the past and the present in this historic city.17904-823-3456GErealty.US

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PIP’S CORNER OFUPCOMING EVENTSConcerts in the PlazaDates: Every Thursday through August 29, 6-8 p.m.Location: Gazebo of the Plaza de la Constitucion, St. Augustine, FLDetails: Free live music series. Bring chairs for seating. THE LINEUP August 1: Shayla Nelson August 8: Feedback August 15: Str8up August 22: JC Hateld Trio August 29: Thick & Thin String Band Music & Art by the SeaDates: August 21 - October 2 (select Wednesdays)Location: St. John’s County Ocean Pier, St. Augustine Beach, FLDetails: Features live music and local art. Includes special performances by the US Navy Brass Band and the LPT Latin Band. Full lineup at freebeachconcerts.com.Founder’s DayDate: September 7Location: Various locations in St. Augustine, FLDetails: Celebrate the founding of St. Augustine with historical reenactments, a Catholic Mass, and more. Admission is free for most events. Aviles Street FestivalDate: September 8Time: 12-9 p.m.Location: Aviles Street, St. AugustineDetails: Celebrate with live music, cultural offerings, food, and artwork. This festival strengthens the bond between St. Augustine and Aviles, Spain. Includes historic house tours and artists on the lawn.Sing Out Loud FestivalDates: September 13-29Location: Various venues in St. AugustineDetails: Annual music festival featuring Eric Church, Nora Jones, Marcus King, The Breeders, and more. Free concerts by local and regional musicians. Learn more at singoutloudfestival.com.EMMA Concert Association 46th Season of Music & DanceDates: Various dates from September 15 to April 26Location: Lewis Auditorium at Flagler College, St. AugustineDetails: Featuring the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet, Boston Brass, Gainesville Orchestra Holiday Pops, Czech Philharmonic, Swan Lake by Dance Alive National Ballet, Ocala Symphony Orchestra. Tickets and schedule at emmaconcerts.com.St. Augustine Book FestivalDate: September 21Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Location: Outdoor venue in St. AugustineDetails: Features authors showcasing Florida and St. Augustine-themed books.Vilano Vibe-RationsDate: October 19Time: 11-6:30 p.m.Location: Vilano Beachfront Park, 2725 Anahma Drive, St. AugustineDetails: Music festival with local and regional musicians, food, vendors, and good vibes. All proceeds benet the Vilano community. Ancient City Kids DayDate: October 26Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.Location: Francis Field, 29 W. Castillo Drive, St. AugustineDetails: Free public event with activities for children and families, including games, arts and crafts, and live entertainment. Organized by EPIC Behavioral Healthcare. Trick-or-Treating on Saint George StreetDate: October 27Time: 2-5 p.m.Location: Saint George Street, St. AugustineDetails: Annual Halloween event where children in costume can trick or treat at participating businesses. Free admission.18904-823-3456GErealty.US

Living in History Summer 2024

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