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Summer’s Bucket List in Tampa Bay
Welcome to Tampa Bay, where summer comes alive with endless excitement and fun! If you’re looking for an unforgettable summer experience, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve curated a list of must-do activities and events that will make your summer in Tampa Bay truly memorable. So, grab your sunscreen, put on your shades, and let’s dive into the adventure!
- Soak Up the Sun at Tampa Bay’s Stunning Beaches:
Tampa Bay is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, offering the perfect escape to paradise. Spend a day basking in the warm sun, taking refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters, and creating sandcastles with your loved ones. Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Honeymoon Island are among the most popular choices where you can unwind and create lasting memories. - Embrace the Great Outdoors in Tampa Bay:
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Tampa Bay by exploring its magnificent parks and reserves. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or enjoying a picturesque picnic, Lettuce Lake Park, Alafia River State Park, and Hillsborough River State Park provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes!
- Immerse Yourself in Tampa Bay’s Vibrant Culture:
Tampa Bay is a melting pot of diverse cultures, and you can dive into this cultural tapestry by visiting local museums, attending festivals, and exploring historical sites. The Tampa Museum of Art, the Florida Holocaust Museum, and Ybor City are just a few of the top cultural attractions that will open your eyes to the city’s rich heritage. Get ready for a journey through time and culture!
- Delight Your Taste Buds with Tampa Bay’s Culinary Delights: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey through Tampa Bay’s foodie paradise. From delectable fresh seafood to authentic Cuban cuisine, the city offers an array of gastronomic delights. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes at renowned restaurants such as Ulele, Columbia Restaurant, and The Rusty Pelican. Your taste buds will thank you!
- Experience Thrilling Sporting Events:
For sports enthusiasts, Tampa Bay is the ultimate destination. Catch the excitement of live sports by attending a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game, cheering on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at a football match, or witnessing the thrilling action of a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game. Get ready to join the roaring crowd and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Make this summer in Tampa Bay truly unforgettable by ticking off these must-do activities and events from your bucket list. Whether you’re relaxing on the sun-kissed beaches, exploring the great outdoors, immersing yourself in the local culture, savoring exquisite culinary delights, or cheering for your favorite sports team, Tampa Bay has something for everyone. Embrace the vibrant energy of this city and create memories that will warm your heart for years to come. Your epic summer adventure awaits in Tampa Bay!
A Guide for VA Home Loans
VA Home Loans: A Guide for Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members
You may be eligible for the VA (Veterans Affairs) home loan program if you are a veteran or active-duty service member. This program offers mortgage loans that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees to help eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and their surviving spouses buy or refinance a home. This guide will cover the critical information you need about VA loans, including what they are, the benefits, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What are VA Loans?
VA loans are home loans guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs but offered by private lenders such as banks and mortgage companies. The VA guarantees a portion of the loan, which allows lenders to offer more favorable terms and conditions to eligible borrowers. VA loans can be used to purchase a home or refinance an existing mortgage.
Benefits of VA Loans
VA loans offer several benefits that make them an attractive option for eligible veterans and active-duty service members, including:
No down payment required: Eligible borrowers can purchase a home without having to save up a considerable sum of money for a down payment.
Lower interest rates: VA loans typically have lower interest rates than traditional mortgages, which can save borrowers thousands of dollars over the life of their loan.
No private mortgage insurance (PMI) required: VA loans do not require borrowers to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI), which can save borrowers hundreds of dollars each month.
More lenient credit requirements: VA loans have more lenient credit requirements than traditional mortgages, making it easier for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit to qualify for a loan.
Who Qualifies for VA Loans?
To be eligible for a VA loan, you must meet specific requirements, including:
Military service: You must be a veteran who served on active duty, a National Guard or Reserve member, or an active-duty service member. Surviving spouses of veterans may also be eligible for VA loans.
Certificate of Eligibility (COE): You must have a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA that verifies your eligibility for the loan.
Property requirements: The property you purchase must meet specific needs, including being used as your primary residence and meeting specific safety and habitability standards.
Credit and income requirements: You must meet the lender’s credit and income requirements to qualify for a VA loan.
How to Apply for a VA Loan
To apply for a VA loan, you must obtain your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. You can do this online through the VA’s eBenefits portal or by submitting a Request for Certificate of Eligibility (VA Form 26-1880) by mail or in person. Then, could you contact your lender to begin your VA loan application? You must document your military service, income, and credit history. During the home buying process, your new home will undergo a VA appraisal to ensure it meets the VA loan standards and is structurally safe and sound to purchase.
In conclusion, VA loans offer well-deserved advantages for qualifying members. If you’re considering a VA loan, you should work with an experienced lender who can help you get the most out of this powerful loan program. With our simple preapproval process, you could be on the path to your VA loan today.
What is Tax Portability?
Are you planning to sell your current home and buy a new one in the same state? If yes, it’s important to consider your “tax portability” options. Tax portability is a unique benefit provided by the State of Florida that can help you save a considerable amount of money on your property taxes.
What is Tax Portability?
Portability, AKA “Transfer of Homestead Assessment Difference”, is the ability to transfer the dollar benefit of the Homestead CAP from one Homestead to another. Simply put, tax portability allows residents that are moving from one primary residence to another to bring the built-up property tax benefits on the assessed value of their existing home with them to their new home. This can mean up to a $500,000 decrease in the taxable value of your new home and a HUGE annual property tax savings!
Interesting! How does Tax Portability work?
Here’s how it works: Florida primary residences are protected to a maximum percent increase in the assessed value each year by homestead legislation known as “Save Our Homes”. Without the portability provision, if you moved, you lost ALL of the assessed value savings created by Save Our Homes, and your new home would be assessed at the current market value.
In practice, this is what they calculation looks like:
In the example above, the homeowners were able to “port” $150,000 of their current homesteaded assessed value savings to their new home. So instead of paying property taxes on the $550,000 ($600,000 – $50,000 of the Homestead Exemption Savings) assessed value of their new home, they only have to pay property taxes on $400,000 ($550,000 – portability benefit of $150,000).
Who can take advantage of this benefit?
This unique benefit is available only to those who have a Homestead Exemption in the state of Florida.
Take a look at the helpful tips below:
How do I apply for Tax Portability?
As a Floridian, knowing about this benefit is essential to ensure you take advantage of every opportunity to save money. You can find more information and the required application links at your local county property appraisal websites. We’ve linked several below for your convenience.
Hillsborough County – https://www.hcpafl.org/property-info/homestead-other-info
Pinellas County – https://www.pcpao.gov/homestead-exemption
Pasco County – https://pascopa.com/exemptions/exemptions/homestead/
Sarasota County – https://www.sc-pa.com/exemptions/homestead/overview/
Manatee County –https://www.manateepao.gov/definitions/additional-homestead-exemption/
Agent Spotlight: Anky Desai
REALTOR® Anky Desai is an experienced professional with over 20 years of expertise in customer service, team building, business consulting, and regulatory compliance, all contributing to his outstanding business acumen. Anky’s true passion lies not only in helping clients find their perfect residential and commercial properties but also in forming lasting relationships and guiding them toward achieving financial freedom. He’s wholeheartedly committed to bringing joy and positivity into his clients’ lives.
Anky, originally from India, is a proud graduate of St. John’s University in New York, where he completed his pharmacy degree. His diverse background includes positions as a Pharmacy District Manager for a national pharmacy chain and as an associate professor and director of practice experience at Touro College of Pharmacy.
With Anky’s unique combination of healthcare expertise, exceptional customer service, and sharp business insight, he is fully equipped to understand and address his clients’ needs in a comprehensive manner. Whether it’s residential or commercial real estate, Anky provides personalized, empathetic guidance throughout the entire process, always prioritizing clients’ financial and emotional well-being.
Anky says, “I truly believe in the value of creating meaningful connections with my clients, and I am dedicated to making a positive impact on their lives, both personally and financially.”
Having relocated to Tampa from Manhattan in New York City three years ago, Anky cherishes his family life. He has been happily married for over 16 years and is a proud father of two children, a 4-year-old boy, and a 7-year-old girl. Anky is an enthusiastic pickleball, tennis, and ping pong player, and he also enjoys hiking and playing cricket. In his spare time, he participates in charity runs and raises funds for breast cancer research through marathons.
Contact Anky Desai or learn more here.
Agent Spotlight: Bianka Ross
Bianka Ross is a dynamic, global personality with a diverse background that has set her up for a successful real estate career. While she has lived in Tampa for the past three years, she was born and raised in Slovakia and spent time as a foreign exchange student in Wyoming.
“I have lived in multiple cities and states; however, Tampa had my heart at first sight,” Bianka said. “I love the energy and the mindset of people in this city. The warm climate is always a plus for me.”
Buying a home here led to her love of real estate.
“I got into real estate because I love working with people, understanding their specific needs, and helping them find what they are looking for,” said Bianka. “Searching for and buying my own house gave me an opportunity to experience the world of real estate, which I immediately developed a passion for. After my own house purchase, I started to pursue my career in real estate and studied for licensure.”
Bianka’s digital marketing and negotiating skills, coupled with her energy, enthusiasm, and integrity, bring significant value to her clients. She said, “My customer’s unique needs are my priority.” She is passionate about meeting new people, learning more about their needs, and improving their lives.
“I love the dynamic nature of the real estate business and the wide variety of properties on the market, which brings me the opportunity to work with a lot of different people and to help them find a place to call home,” Bianka said. I want to help them find the right property, negotiate the best deal for them and make their dreams come true.”
She has also been improving her own life as a professional and competitive bodybuilder, which led her to start her online coaching business. Bianka is a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist and has also won multiple state, national, and international placings at bodybuilding competitions. Additionally, Bianka has a Florida security license and started a security company with her husband.
Bianka’s prior experience has led to her exceptional real estate service.
“Understanding the customer’s unique needs plays a crucial role in my outstanding customer service, which, when combined with my negotiating skills, allows me to get the best deals for my customers, resulting in successful transactions,” she said. “Having experience in digital marketing helps me to advertise customers’ properties to a wide sphere of audience. And time management is another important quality that assists me in putting my customers as my main priority.”
Bianka is happily married, and their current focus is developing their careers and experiencing all aspects of life together; they would love to have children in the future. She also has two giant rabbits at home. Bianka is a big fitness enthusiast, exercising almost every day, and loves cooking different types of healthy meals for herself and her friends. She also enjoys going to the beach and swimming, reading and expanding on her education, as well as traveling and seeing new cultures and places.
To contact Bianka Ross or to learn more, visit her website here.
Agent Spotlight: Carina Galati
“I am selfless and will always put my clients’ needs and interests before my own,” Realtor® Carina Galati said. “I go the extra mile for my clients. And I don’t overlook the details and have a fresh perspective from my corporate background that gives me a sharp edge.”
Carina has spent the last several years working in the finance and accounting industries as a consultant and manager after graduating magna cum laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Marketing
Promoted early to management at PwC before the typical four-year requirement, Carina worked as a manager for PwC’s Risk Mitigation and Controls team to support the firm’s controller. She worked with various organizational stakeholders to develop best practices around processes to ensure financial statements were presented accurately. Carina also worked for Grant Thornton in Risk Advisory Services, serving multiple industries like insurance, banking, and healthcare to provide risk consulting and process enhancements related to financial reporting.
She transitioned into real estate to continue to help others, as she’s always had a passion for serving people and making a difference. Carina has always enjoyed working with people and providing consulting services.
“I am excited to use those same skills and consult people when selling and buying homes,” said Carina. “Real estate is a customer-centric industry providing an opportunity to think outside the box, where no two transactions are alike. I am eager to build lifelong relationships with my clients and be that trusted advisor to make their experience seamless.”
Carina’s previous roles taught her to be organized and when to pivot and adapt in different situations. She has developed her communication skills by working with various stakeholders and customers. Her experience with diverse finance business processes strengthened her critical thinking skills.
“Working as a consultant and risk mitigation manager serves me well when working with clients, as I have had experience identifying the needs and information required to achieve the customer’s desired outcome,” she said. “I am selfless, hardworking, motivated, personable, and honest.”
Carina was born in New York and moved to Punta Gorda, FL, as a young child. She has lived in South Tampa for four years. Carina loves the fast-growing city full of restaurants and shopping, as well as Tampa sports teams. She moved from Miami to Tampa to get that small-town vibe in a big city.
In her free time, Carina is passionate about helping children. She has helped tutor, sponsored children at school and during holidays, and attended charity events that benefit local children. Carina also loves boating with her husband and dogs and traveling. She is quite a foodie and enjoys trying new restaurants and cooking new recipes at home. And she enjoys walking through the neighborhoods with her friends, is a regular at the F45 fitness studio, and loves taking cycling and Pilates classes too!
Contact Carina Galati today to learn more about buying, selling, or investing in a home.
5 New Luxury Home Trends
Many significant changes in luxury home design have emerged in the last several years. One of the biggest floor plan changes is the need for not one but two home offices! Now, as things settle into a more normal state, we see homeowners entertaining more and valuing connections and convenience. Here are the top five new trends that have emerged.
1. Double Kitchen Islands
Because one gorgeous 10ft island was not enough, luxury homeowners want more counter space for cooking and entertaining. The island closest to the oven is used for prep work as well as washing and drying dishes, whereas the furthest island is used for presenting appetizers and a dinner buffet and can have bar stools on one of both sides.
2. Secret Pantry or Messy Kitchen
Appearing as a bank of wall cabinets or a wall decorated with wainscotting, guests will be in awe when the homeowner pushes through into another HIDDEN room! In this room is where the real work happens and is hidden from guests who, during their visit, will only see the spotless kitchen island and sparkling kitchen sink. This hidden room typically has a sink for the dirty dishes and sometimes a full second kitchen with a fridge, oven, and dishwasher. For the frequent entertainer, this is a great way to keep the mess out of sight when hosting a dinner party.
3. Wallpaper
Yes, it’s back! Wallpaper is a great way to add texture and pattern to a room and can completely change the feel without buying new furniture. Luxury homeowners are using it even on the ceilings!
4. Pool Chillers
It is Florida, and we have all jumped in the pool in August expecting a cool relief from the heat, only to feel like you’ve jumped into a lukewarm bath. Now integrated into many pool heaters is a pool chiller, and it does exactly what you would think.
5. Electric Screens
Built into the soffits of the back patio, luxury homeowners can choose if they would like screen protection from bugs or open air with remote-controlled electric screens that disappear into the home’s ceiling. It’s a great way to have the best of both worlds, enjoying the Florida sunshine.
If you are looking for a new luxury home, our agents are highly skilled and trained in finding what you’re looking for. Whether it’s new construction or an off-market property, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more!
What Lies Ahead for Florida Homeowners Insurance
The Florida homeowners insurance market remains challenging. And understanding all of the nuances of a complex and fluid market can make things confusing. Pineapple Insurance is here to help break things down for you.
Another Homeowners Insurance Company in Receivership
Seven homeowner insurance companies were taken into receivership by the State of Florida – the most recent being United Property and Casualty in March of 2023. Another company has announced that they will withdraw from the Florida homeowners market and will non-renew their existing policies during CY 2023 and 2024.
Those non-renewals were effective in April 2023. Multiple carriers have restricted new business capacity, initiated non-renewals, and have taken some rather substantial rate increases to combat rising costs, principally related to litigation and inflation (labor and materials).
Hurricane Ian Deals a Blow to Florida Insurance
Florida experienced multiple storms and ended the year with one of the costliest and personally devasting natural disasters in Florida’s history. Citizens, the state-run insurer of last resort, has Policies in Force (PIF) of 1,239,396 as of March 31, 2023. Citizens is on pace in 2023 to exceed its PIF highpoint of 1,482,707, which was in November 2011.
Initial 2022 FL Statutory Industry results appear to indicate a combined ratio of 114%, which simply means the industry lost 14 cents for every dollar of premium written. These results will continue to develop as more carriers complete their financial reporting.
Florida Legislature Address Homeowners Insurance
To combat these challenges, the Florida Legislature held a special session in December to provide meaningful reform, which the governor signed into law.
The purpose of the reforms is to:
- Stabilize the personal homeowners insurance market by allowing carriers to estimate their future costs better.
- Reduce frivolous lawsuits and unnecessary litigation, thereby reducing costs for insurance companies and, ultimately, the consumer.
What the Future Holds for Florida Homeowners Insurance
Unfortunately, rates are expected to continue to increase due to the cost of reinsurance, which many carriers, including Citizens, are in the negotiation process of as we speak.
While these reforms should bring about market stabilization, the next 12 to 24 months will continue to be challenging as carriers implement these changes and attorneys test the reforms. The Florida Personal Lines property insurance market has faced similar challenges and has always found solutions.
Lastly, while insurance can be considered an expense, we encourage you to also think about it as the peace of mind that it can provide to help you and your family recover in the event of a loss. We strongly recommend that each of you have a flood policy, even if your home is in an X Zone, which, while not required by your mortgage company, does not mean it is unnecessary.
Pineapple Insurance is Here to Help
If you have any questions, if we can be of assistance, or if we can review your existing coverages for your home, flood, auto, or umbrella policies, please call 813-438-7240 or visit pineappleinsure.com for important reference information or to request a quote or contact.
Stay safe.
Agent Spotlight: Olga Letizkaya
From St. Petersburg, Russia, to the St. Petersburg area of Florida, Olga Letizkaya brings rich knowledge to Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services. As a dynamic landlord, Olga is experienced in customer service and management, and she was named the best service provider by Home Advisor for five consecutive years.
In 2019, Olga bought a vacation home on Treasure Island. She loved the area so much that she decided to relocate her entire family to Tampa Bay. They have resided in Odessa since 2022. Previously, Olga owned her own cleaning business in Columbus, OH. This experience has given Olga an acute appreciation for and understanding of homeowners and their investment in their homes.
While in Russia, Olga was a registered nurse. Caring for the health of others has given her unique skills in helping people buy or sell a home. Olga is personable and adept at working in a fast-paced environment with the highest level of honesty, integrity, and attention to detail.
As a landlord and Realtor, Olga enjoys helping people during major life milestones. She loves the fast pace of the real estate market in addition to meeting new people, home design, continual education, and of course, helping people figure out what they want when buying or selling a home.
Olga is passionate about pollution and recycling. And in her free time, she enjoys traveling, jogging, bicycling, swimming, music, and going to the beach. She also spends time with her big, beloved family, which includes her environmental specialist daughter Alexandra, 4-year-old grandson Oliver, her wonderful parents, sister, nieces, and her 11-year-old chihuahua Bo-Bo.
Olga is ready to help you find your dream home or help you through the relocation process. Contact her today to learn more!
Agent Spotlight: Kathy Brengle
Kathy Brengle relocated from Seattle to Tampa and knows firsthand the details that go into a significant move. If you are relocating, she can be your eyes and ears on the ground to help you find the home you love. Not only can she help you find the perfect home for yourself, but she can also help you find investment properties.
Specializing in investment properties of all types, Kathy follows market trends very closely and can advise buyers looking for buy-and-holds, fix-and-flips, or multifamily properties. She has been investing actively since 2017, primarily with fix-and-flips. Kathy can analyze deals to see if they look like a sound investment on paper. Her experience includes managing construction projects in their entirety – including acquisition, scheduling contractors, and all aspects of renovation, budgeting, marketing, and sale.
Kathy lives with her husband and three kids in Tampa. She has been a homeschool mom for 12 years and enjoys spending time with family, renovating properties, exploring Florida, and volunteering at Reach City Church. Kathy has a bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Washington and has several years of playing and teaching experience. Her favorite performing genre is in the orchestra for musical theater playing woodwinds. But her favorite instrument to play is the guitar – garage-band style!
For more information, visit her website or follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram @KathyBrengle.
