My New Blog

The gentle kiss of spring wind is finally here in Punta Gorda, Florida. Along with this breeze is the smell of blooming Jasmine, Rose, and wait…crawfish??? Either this means my lobster claw flowers are blooming nicely or PGs Seafood Festival is upon us! Well if you’re hoping for the later, you’re in luck! March 7^th- 8^th at Laishley Park will be Punta Gorda’s Seafood Festival. Come with empty bellies for there will be a fresh feast ahead of you once you pay the 2$ admission fee. Once you have your food sit down and enjoy the live music or water ski show! There are also craft vendors and a kid’s playground for those children who always have extra energy, but don’t seem keen on sharing it with their tired parents. If you’re one of those tired parents or just a general seafood lover click here for more information. 

My oh my I smell another scent on the wind…it’s the smell of kilts and bagpipes; I didn’t know they had a smell that’s odd. Anyways! This must mean one thing! We have a new superhero, CelticMan! Oh wait no CelticMan is holding up a sign, it says that there will be a Celtic Festival on March 8^th. Ah that makes much more sense, or should I say scents. The 15^th Annual Peace River Celtic Festival will be held at The Celtic Ray Public House, 145 Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda.  Here we will celebrate the Celtic heritage with food and drinks as well as live performances! Admission cost 5$ and is from 12pm-7pm. Here’s a link with more information for ye Celtic lovers. 

Gasp another scent! Just kidding this event is a free visual one. On March 8^th will be the 13^th Semi-annual Art Fest on the Farm. Come see over 50 artists portray their beautiful artwork (that’s hopefully not haunted) at 25370 Zemel Road. Stroll around and see art that is worth discussing and inquiring about, like Claude Monet once said “Everyone discusses my art and pretends to understand, as if it were necessary to understand, when it is simply necessary to love.” This event is hosted by Inspiration Studios, which sells jewelry and also offers classes for Jewelry making and painting and Pottery Express/ Bamboo Farms which sells beautiful pottery, statues, and fountains. Food and drinks will also be sold at this event. For more information click here.

For the first time in Punta Gorda is the new Short Film Festival! I cannot contain my excitement for this two hour event showing comedies, dramas, and animated “Best of show” films collected from other previous Film Festivals since 1987. Imagine being enraptured into a story of such depth and character to find out it’s only five to ten minutes long. This is what a short film is and artists and directors have honed this gift to create the best of the best short films to be shown on the 11^th. This event will be held at the Punta Gorda Event Center on March 11^th starting at 7:00 make sure to get there early though to grab good seats! Admission is 15$ plus fees but you can order tickets early here  For more information on the Film Festival click here.

If March is filled up with plans here’s an event starting on April 24^th, the Country Life Music Festival! Country music star and recording artists Reba McEntire will be opening the stage with our talented people like Tracy Lawrence, Chris Young, Chris Weaver and our own local band the Jack Michael Band! More bands will follow up as well as some new songs unheard of until this festival. If you’re ready to rock with your friends and family then drive on over to the new Tracks and Trails in Punta Gorda. Tickets right now are on sale for 49$ (originally 79$) and can be preordered from here. For more information check here or here.

With all of these event’s going on remember to be safe and have fun! Bring a friend and happy partying!

Blog Post by:

Kayley V.

The Newest Member of the Vaughn Team.

     
    Wouldn’t you like to get away? To a place where everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came? This cozy place isn’t Cheers but instead Fishermen’s Village! A resort and shopping center on the Charlotte harbor located at 1200 West Retta Esplanade. It’s hard to decide where to begin when talking about Fishermen’s Village. From the stores to the comfy looking rooms and the view everything about Fishermen’s Village is amazing. Yet possibly the most amazing thing is the multitude of events happening here. Grab yourself an ice cream cone from one of the sweet shops and sit down to listen to a musician with your family on Fridays 5-9pm. For an event list click here.

      If adventuring is more of your thing walk on down by the marine for information on a cruise, boat rental, or fishing tours or click here. Careful though! You might encounter one of Florida’s many silly looking birds.

            If you keep following the path by the Marine you’ll end up at a restaurant known as Harpoon Harry’s. Find a stairway and go up it to a fancy buffet restaurant called The Captain’s Table. If you’re hanging out with friends or meeting up with some family members that you haven’t seen in a while both restaurants are perfect places to go. Harpoon Harry’s has more or a bar theme and sometimes live music. If you have little kids with you worry not! For there are arcade games a’ plenty as well as Pool and Air Hockey to entertain them. Upstairs The Captain’s Table isn’t set up for a rock and roll band but does have a large grand piano with almost always someone caressing a song out of it. In both restaurants I have been met with friendly smiles and a lovely staff that knew how to take care of their customers.

      While walking around Fishermen’s Village it’s common to feel relaxed and at ease. Something about the large walkways, tall ceiling and the open building remind me of being in a forest with nothing to do but relax. Of course forests don’t have shops and a harbor right next to them. Of these shops Fishermen’s Village has ice-cream, clothing, furniture, gag-gifts, knick-knacks, olive oil, and the Military Heritage Museum. Shops like Bella Balsamic & The Pressed Olive have professional mixologists to create perfect olive oils and vinegars for everyday use. Or if you’re here with your lil dog check out Salty Paws! An adorable shop filled to the top with dog treats and apparel. My favorite shop is the Dragonfly Gallery which sells beautiful blown glass ornaments, ones that are perfect for hanging in front of a sunny window. The way the glass catches the light it just puts the perfect touch to a creative room.

      Today was another day well spent at Fishermen’s Village! With family and friends around it’s impossible to feel alone when I’m here. Yet even if I do let times of sadness catch up to me I just remember “Hey! I live in Florida!” and that tomorrow is another sunrise.

Much of my days as a Realtor in Southwest Florida is spent talking on the phone to customers from states North of Florida, who have decided that they no longer want to endure the cold winter.  They plan to retire soon, going to sell their home and head down to Florida to take a look around! First decision to be made is... where to visit and why? Any certain town or county of interest? Planning to live near the beach,  to walk the beach and watch the sunset every night? Or.. maybe the preference is to live closer to the Interstate to have great access to explore different areas of Florida? 

After determining the County and general location that fits within their lifestyle, the next step is to decide upon the features of the home!  This is the point of the decision-making process, which I will call 'The Crossroads'.  I can come up with many reasons why it is better to build new, and I can come up with many reasons why it is better to purchase resale.  Ultimately, what it comes down to is buyer preferences, time frame before moving,  and budget. 

There are many advantages of new construction, including improved Energy Efficiency Standards; most current Building Codes; Higher Land Elevation for properties that are built up.. which could result in lower flood insurance rates; Flexibility of upgrades and ability to customize; and typically the builders will offer a  Structural and Mechanical Warranty upon completion of construction.  Costs for new construction are higher than the costs for resale, without a doubt, but how much higher?  Of course the percentage difference would be determined based upon the particular home to be built vs the particular resale market.. as every area has a variance of values.  I'm finding within some communities the cost to build is only 10% higher than the resale market.  In this case, if the Floridian-to-be has time, patience, and enough money.. then Build! Build! Build!

Now on the flip side, a buyer has expressed interest in buying a Florida home, and is within a tighter budget or possibly even enjoys the thrill of a remodel project or would like to move into a particular mature, established neighborhood, with a lake view.   But.. .often times,  there is no vacant lake view land in mature neighborhoods, because the best locations are usually the first to be built, in which case, a resale home would be a better option.  Another great attribute of a mature neighborhoods is lush landscape and mature trees within the area gives the neighborhood a warmer feel.  Neighbors who have lived in an area for many years, within an established neighborhood promotes the feelings of safety and security.  And with the money that can be saved on the resale pricing, there could be some room in the budget for updating and upgrading.  One more comment... resales are often more of a complete package, including the blinds on the windows, the fence in the backyard, the doggie door, etc.

To Review some pictures of new construction upgrade options, www.TheVaughnTeamSells.com  and click on Pictures of Area Attractions:  PGI Homes .  For More information about PGI Homes or other local builders, please call me direct at (941)628-6768 or Email TammyVaughnSells@gmail.com . I look forward to hearing from you!

Bobble Fest is another way to describe the continuing tradition of 23 years... The Charlotte Harbor Freedom Swim.  For those who don't live in Charlotte County, in the areas of Punta Gorda, and Port Charlotte .. yet..  you would probably just think everyone who lives here is a little bit nuts on Independence Day.  For a small town though, Punta Gorda has got some serious Spirit!   The story goes, 23+ years ago, local Attorney Michael Haymans and some buddies decided to take the plunge, and swim the Charlotte Harbor on Independence Day. Rumor has it, the swim was swum Au Natural.. or Free-style by the Attorney, and ever since has been called the Charlotte Harbor Freedom Swim.  All ages of children and adults, meet on the Northern side of the Bridge with Noodles, Rafts, Canoes, Kayaks, SUP boards, and any other potential water craft that will make it from side A to side B. Mostly everyone is dressed in some sort of red, white and blue, from speedos to- one guy sported a Captain America suit on a Sup board this year. 

Over the past couple of years the swim has included about 600 participants, of which about 300 actually swim.  I also swam across the Charlotte Harbor this year, with my husband, and Real Estate partner, Chuck,  as my spotter in a kayak along side.  The distance is 1.6 miles, straight across from Charlotte Harbor Northern side of the bridge to Fishermens Village on the Punta Gorda side. To me, this event, gives me such a feeling of Pride, pride in myself for swimming across a pretty large body of water, but also pride in my hometown of Punta Gorda, and pride in the residents, who make the event so fun.  When I made it to the other side, at Fishermens Village, to see all of the smiling, happy faces, music playing, people laughing, and just pure happiness all around.. that's what it's all about!  That is why, I love, love, love Punta Gorda!  Did I mention.. I love Punta Gorda!  So, maybe next year, I'll see you all there !

 To take a look at a few pictures of the event, and other events, communities in the area, go to my website www.TheVaughnTeamSells.com click on tab to left 'Pictures of Area Attractions'

One main reason I enjoy living in the  Punta Gorda area, is the wide variety of beaches that are a short distance away, to the North and to the South!  The waves breaking on the shore may look similar from beach to beach, but each beach has obvious differences. Some beaches offer more of a touristy environment, with lots of shopping, hotels, bed and breakfasts, tiki bars and restaurants, while other beaches offer the beauty of an untouched natural setting with plenty of wildlife.  One can appreciate the raw beauty and serenity these beaches have to offer.  Lovers Key is one of the more natural beaches located between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Beach in Lee County.

Last weekend I ventured out  to Lovers Key and was reminded why I love where I live... I posted some pictures of the trip on my website www.TheVaughnTeamSells.com  click on Pictures of Area Attractions.  A friend  was out to the Island a week earlier and found starfish and sand dollars, at low tide, about four feet out.  These are the largest starfish I have seen.. pretty amazing!

In the past, Lovers Key was accessible by boat only and it has been said that only lovers traveled to the island to appreciate the quiet solitude of the beach. Now, Lovers Key makes up one of four barrier islands within the state park, which is a home for  wildlife, such as West Indian manatees, bottlenose dolphins, roseate spoonbills, marsh rabbits, and bald eagles. The beach is two miles long, and accessible by a boardwalk or tram to get to the South side of the island.

Until next time... Stay Warm!

     Riverwood Golf and Country Club is one of my FAVORITE communities in all of SW Florida, nestled right along the Myakka River, a short distance to the beaches,  with 1300 Acres, 300 of which is preserves and lakes, and includes 29 different communities, including Golf Club, 18-Hole Championship Course,  Activity Center, Tennis, 6 Har Tru Lighted Courts,  Resort Style Swimming Pool, Myakka River Walk (# Fishing),  a private Beach Club, Lawn Bowling, Bocce Ball. The list goes on..

The community was designed so each homesite has a view.. greenbelt, lake, preserve, golf course. The houses are not situated back to back, so you have privacy on the back patio, and the natural wildlife in your own back yard.

     Just the peaceful and serene feel, of driving into the community, beyond the (24 Hour) Guarded Gate with the Tree lined streets, and natural settings of preservation land and wildlife through out the community is enough to induce a one with the self moment.  There are plenty of walking paths, bikers, joggers, golfers, tennis players, and not to mention the sun-bunners who  enjoy laying out by the pool in this beautiful sun filled location. Many residents within Riverwood are active adults with a motivation to be physically fit, and active.  With a full time activities director, there is always an event in the working.. and a buzz amongst the residents, who love to be involved in the many activities.

New construction is available, however almost sold out, starting in a range of low $200,000 +.  The deals on New Construction are phenomenal, and newly constructed properties are built to a higher elevation resulting in the lowest possible rate for Flood Insurance.

I went into Riverwood yesterday and took some pictures of the community that I would enjoy sharing with you.. click into my website www.TheVaughnTeamSells.com and view Pictures of Area Attractions.  There is also plenty of information about the SW Florida area in which I was born and Love, Love, Love! (And will never leave)

When you plan to visit the area to purchase your Florida Home, be sure to contact me to show you around!  (941)628-6768 Tammy Vaughn. 

I'll be in touch soon.. after my next adventure :-) !

I have not blogged in a while, but this deal is too good to keep quiet. 

Cypress Falls is offering new construction Paired Villas starting at $152,000 including the lot premium!  For a 2 bedroom 1363 Living square feet, including lots of upgrades within the Standard Features.  This is the best deal I have come across for new construction in a 55 plus community, yet!

What I like about Cypress Falls, is the resort style pool with lots of mature palm trees and pavered decking. There is always music playing poolside... and also a second pool with resistance, for exercise.  (or you could use the pool as a lazy lagoon) There are always activities going on, and an activities director who works full time.  The fitness center is larger than any of the other communities in this area, and there are walking paths throughout the entire community! 

When I bring customers to this community to show the area, we often come across the Sandhill Cranes with their babies, walking throughout the subdivision.  I was out to Cypress Falls yesterday to take pictures of the area, so if you click into my website.. www.TheVaughnTeamSells.com  and click on the Tab on the left ' Pictures of Area Attractions', you will see a link for Cypress Falls with a few pictures.  There are also pictures of Boca Grande Island and  the City of Punta Gorda. 

I'll be adding more pictures to the website for out of towners who would like to get a feel for the area. To contact me direct about other options, properties for sale, area information, listing your property, or just to chat about the weather.. (941)628-6768 ! My email is TammyVaughnSells@gmail.com .  Hope to talk to you soon :-)

Tammy Vaughn, GRI, ABR, RSPS, GREEN (Florida Native, but there is no designation for this)

Realtor, Re/Max Harbor Realty

I am pleased to introduce a very valuable and new member creating the Vaughn Team.  Charles has a significant history of sales experience and will prove to be a great asset to our Real Estate business.  We plan to continue to offer exceptional service to our past, present and future customers.  Our services include listing and selling properties in the Southwest Florida area.  No job is too big, and no job is too small!!  We are available for a complementary Market Analysis  and for Personal Buyer Consultation.  Also, we are both members of the Remax Referral Service, so we can find you an agent in another state or country to handle your real estate needs.  And we love to receive referrals as well!  Thank You 'so much' for your continued support!

About Charles Vaughn

Visit us at www.TheVaughnTeamSells.com 

Call Charles Vaughn direct: (941)628-3546

Call Tammy Vaughn Direct:  (941)628-6768

2090 AQUI ESTA DR, PUNTA GORDA

Call Tammy (941) 628-6768

$379,000

Open Sun, Nov 6, 10AM to 2 PM

This beautiful waterfront pool home has been RECENTLY REDUCED making it a great value in today's market. Built in 1999, this 3/2/2 home is the best priced newer home in desirable Punta Gorda Isles. It features the popular great room floor plan that is spacious and open to the formal dining room and eat-in kitchen. The attractive glass double entry doors and tall sliders make this home bright and airy in the inside. The property has 85 feet on the canal, an extra long 45 foot dock with concrete poles, and a heavy duty 13,000 lb boat lift. It has wonderful paver sidewalks around the house and down to the dock, and a circular driveway. Other features include a heated gunite pool, caged lanai, manablock plumbing, central vacuum, plantation shutters, generous walk-in closets in all of the bedrooms, mature tropical landscaping, and too much to list here. Another big plus is that the home has newer carpets and tile and fresh paint. Although this home is aggressively priced, it is not a foreclosure or short sale, a quick closing is possible. Move in ready. Make this a must see... you won't be disappointed.

Re/Max Harbor Realty

1133 Bal Harbor Blvd St 1129

Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Cell:(941) 628-6768

Office: (941) 639-8500

The US News and World Report Lists Port Charlotte as one of the 10 Best Places to Retire in 2012... the article explains..."Port Charlotte home prices were battered by the housing bust, which could mean bargains for retirees new to the area. The median home sale price was a shockingly low $59,950 in 2010. And many of these homes are located along canals and waterways. "There are a tremendous number of houses on the water, and everybody's got their boats in their backyard," says retiree Chris Zwirner, 78. "All the people who live on water essentially have access to the Gulf of Mexico, and from there you can go around the world." The Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park spans 42,000 acres, including 70 miles of shoreline along the Charlotte Harbor. An added bonus: Florida has no state income tax."

Not to brag. . . Well, OK, I'm bragging!!  Port Charlotte, Florida, on Thanksgiving morning is 72 Degrees, warm, sunny, nice breeze.  My windows are open. My sliding door is open, and I'm cooking away for a Great Family Gathering!!  Someone told me there was snow up North, so I did a google search, and it's true!  I would expect one would have to shovel the snow out of their driveways, or scrape ice off their windshields.  I'm not so sure, cause I've always lived here in Florida, but I could NEVER imagine.   

Hopefully, after Thanksgiving Dinner, my family and I can all head out to Englewood Beach and watch the sunset.  That would be really cool (figure of speech, because it's really warm). 

 A picture of my backyard is below, incase you don't believe me about the weather!!  Happy Thanksgiving ALLLLLL!!!!!!!

Vero Beach, Florida, Over the past few days, I've spent some time learning about life in a GREEN world, and it's soo Exciting!! Society has a HUGE impact on our environment, which is the first step to understanding sustainability, efficiency and owning the social responsibility to recycle, walk to your destinations when able, reduce emissions, and save our planet.  A few ideas to improve GREEN potential in your home are changing lightbulbs to LED or CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamps), install low flow showerheads and faucet aerators, insulate your hot water heater, replace your airconditioning filters, and  install motion sensor lighting in common areas, just to name a few.

Even though we do have a rash of foreclosures, we Realtors are also noticing a rash of buyers, buying up the properties with multiple offers again.  The term "Flipping" is coming back on a very small scale and in some venues, we're even noticing slight price increases.  Does this mean we are at the bottom?? Well, I can't predict the future, but the end is in sight.  The inventory is going down, the number of sales are going up, and our neighborhoods are looking more and more beautiful everyday!!  We've lost the blue tarps, mowed the long yards, discarded the trash.  Charlotte County is again the best waterfront community in Florida!!!