Karen Gartley, Keller Williams Atlantic Partners

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT:

🎭✨Alhambra Theatre & Dining!✨🎭

📍12000 Beach Blvd | Jacksonville, FL

Step into one of Jacksonville's hidden gems! With a rich history and incredible live performances, it’s the perfect place for a memorable night out. Enjoy a delicious meal while you take in a Broadway-style show, all in a cozy, intimate setting. From classic plays to musical hits, there’s always something amazing on stage. Make your next date night or family outing unforgettable at the Alhambra! 🎉🍽️

🏡✨ Just hit the Jacksonville market! Check out these hot new listings:

📍 2233 Staggerbush Drive
🧍‍♂️ Listed by Chad Neumann
🏢 Chad and Sandy Real Estate Group

📍 8818 Marlee Road
🧍‍♂️ Listed by Adam Zahra
🏢 Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty

📍 11511 Mandarin Woods Drive East
🧍‍♀️ Listed by Allison Johnston
🏢 Opendoor Brokerage

If you’re interested in previewing any of these homes, reach out—I’d love to set up a showing! 🏠📞

As a real estate agent, I know homeowners are always looking for ways to save. While I’ve seen DIYs go right, I’ve also seen it go very wrong.

Today, we’re getting to the bottom of when it’s worth spending extra for a professional and when homeowners can tackle the task themselves.

Here are some things you should consider...

🦺 Safety: Any task that involves electrical, plumbing, or structural changes should 100% be handled by a licensed professional. Not only to keep you safe but to ensure your home remains compliant with codes and regulations.

💰 Budget: There’s nothing more frustrating than doing it yourself and ending up spending more than if you hired a professional. So do your research! If the investment in tools and materials is considerable, it may be better to go with the pro.

👩🏻‍🔧 Skills: While DIY is great, you have to consider what skills you have and what you’re able to learn. Cosmetic changes tend to be easier, but there's no one-size-fits-all answer! It ultimately depends on your comfort level, project scope, and budget.

Keep in mind, you can always DIY with professional consultation or assistance, helping you save money and keep your safety net. That way, you can roll up your sleeves while keeping the option to call in reinforcements when necessary!

🍂 Fall is almost here, and it’s time to start thinking about how to bring that cozy vibe into your home—without the clutter!🍂

If you’re like me and love autumn but prefer a minimal, practical approach to decor, I’ve got some simple ideas for you:

🍁 Fall Foliage: Burgundy eucalyptus or even clipping some branches from outside adds instant charm.

🍎 Seasonal Fruit: A bowl of apples or pears not only looks great but is super practical too!

🧺 Textured Throws & Pillows: Add cozy warmth with mustard yellow, burnt orange, or burgundy throws.

🕯️ Candles: Whether real or electric, candles are a must for that inviting glow and fall scent.

🖼️ Seasonal Art: Vintage fall prints are affordable and easy to find on Etsy or at thrift stores.

🪵 Firewood: If you have a fireplace, stack some firewood in a basket for an instant fall feel.

These are simple, budget-friendly ways to bring the magic of fall into your home without going overboard. 🍁✨

✨ LOCAL SPOTLIGHT ✨

🥧 Pie Heaven 🥧
📍1980 Mayport Rd, Atlantic Beach
⏰ Tues.-Fri. 10am - 6pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm

Pie Heaven is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings with their homemade pies, available by the slice or as a whole. From savory options like shepherd’s pie and quiches to sweet delights like bourbon pecan and French silk, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or picking up a treat for the family, Pie Heaven’s cozy flavors make any day a little sweeter! You've got to check them out!

July's numbers are in...

💲 Median Sale Price: $389,970
📆 Median Days on Market: 42
🔐 Closed Sales: 1,868
🏡 New Listings: 3,318

This month’s market is seeing more new listings, giving buyers more options. However, a dip in sold listings suggests the market may be cooling. With homes staying on the market longer and prices slightly down, strategic pricing and timing are crucial for both buyers and sellers.

🎉 Just Sold! 🏡✨

Congratulations to my amazing customers on the sale of their beautiful home at 1840 North Sherry Drive in Atlantic Beach! I’m so happy for them as they move on to their next chapter. It’s been a pleasure helping them navigate this journey and achieve a successful sale.

Subway tile backsplash: the timeless classic that never goes out of style!

Whether you're updating your kitchen or bathroom, subway tile is a simple and affordable way to add a clean, elegant look that will complement just about any decor. It's perfect for creating a fresh, modern space with a touch of vintage charm. ✨

🌻Beaches Green Market🌻

📍321 Penman Rd, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

If you’re in the Jacksonville Beaches area on a Saturday, stop by and explore the Beaches Green Market. This fun little market has it all with vendors that focus on sustainable products and consumer education. Look for organic coffee, fresh flowers, desserts, green crafts, natural pet treats, native plants, local beef, and in-season produce! There truly is something for everyone💗🌿

Local Spotlight:

🌟DOCKSIDE SEAFOOD🌟

📍2510 2nd Ave N | Jacksonville Beach, FL

Looking for a casual dinner with a view? This is the place to be! Dockside Seafood Restaurant is perched along the east edge of the Jacksonville Beach Boat ramp where you’re entertained with views of the majestic marsh and lively boating scene. Experience a casual setting that boasts the high-quality, fresh seafood you expect from local restauranteurs Benjamin and Liza Groshell. Visit and enjoy a local icon! 🍤🦀🥗

I am excited to announce that 627 Drysdale Drive is OFFICIALLY off the market! So happy for my customers and their new chapter, and extremely grateful for the trust they had in me to get their home SOLD. 🎉

Welcome home to the new owners of this incredible Orange Park home🏡🥂

Kick off your weekend with First Fridays at the Fountain! 🎉

Head out to Friendship Fountain every first Friday of the month from 5-9:30 p.m. for a night of fun with a DJ, cash bar, food trucks, vendors, and lawn games! 🌟⛲️

📍1015 Museum Circle | Jacksonville, FL

Let's talk Decluttering! 🧺🧹

Decluttering is extremely important when it comes to preparing to sell your home! A clean, organized space not only makes your home look more appealing, but also allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Create a calm and welcoming environment that highlights your home's best features. 🏡✨

🎉 Congratulations to my amazing customers on the sale of their beautiful home! Wishing you all the joy and excitement on your next adventure. 🥳

And a warm welcome home to the lucky new owners! 🏡✨

🏡 Nestled in prestigious San Jose, this charming 3-bed, 2-bath home exudes warmth with its original hardwood floors. Less than 2 year old roof! Perfect for golf enthusiasts, it's adjacent to the exclusive San Jose Country Club. Close to the renowned Bolles School and vibrant San Marco, enjoy nearby dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Don’t miss out on this timeless gem! Schedule a showing today! ✨

✨ Exalted Shores | Gallery Tour✨

📍Beaches Museum | Jacksonville Beach
🗓️ Saturday, July 27th
⏰ 11 AM

🌊✨ Join artists Clint Burbridge and Tom Schifanella for an intimate tour of their exhibit at Beaches Museum! Explore "Exalted Shores," showcasing Northeast Florida's coastal beauty through photography and art glass.

Free for members, $5 suggested donation for non-members. Pre-register at beachesmuseum.org.

Excited to announce that we are officially ✨UNDER CONTRACT✨ with 49 Menendez Road in beautiful St. Augustine! So happy for my buyers! 💛

✨Local Spotlight: Bitty & Beau's Coffee✨

📍1965 San Marco Blvd | Jacksonville, FL📍

💛☕️Great coffee, with an even better cause. After learning over 80% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed nationwide, the Wrights decided to create a place where people with disabilities are valued & given opportunity for meaningful work. The model? A coffee shop, with an unforgettable staff that changes the way people see other people.☕️💛

☀️🏠 It’s the peak of summer! 🏠☀️

Making sure your AC is running in tip-top shape with regular maintenance is ESSENTIAL! Now would be a great time to clean filters, check for leaks, and schedule a professional tune-up to keep your home comfortable and your energy bills in check.

🧊 Stay cool, everyone! 🧊

🗓️ UPCOMING EVENT 🗓️

🧘‍♀️✨ July 19th | 7-8:30pm ✨🧘‍♀️

Join Seaside Power Yoga for a 75-minute Opera Sound Journey, featuring the transcendent melodies and powerful vocals of Opera Singer Mariette Aida. Let the healing sounds of Crystal Singing Bowls, a 32" Gong, Ocean Drum, Shruti Box, flute, and more guide you through a transformative experience.

*Be sure to bring a mat, blanket, eye mask, and anything else you need to lay comfortably.

🔎✨ Community Spotlight ✨🔍

🌳 HISTORIC AVONDALE 🌳

Over a century later, in the heart of Jacksonville, Avondale continues to captivate residents and visitors alike with its unique architecture and picturesque, tree-lined streets.

This charming neighborhood boasts an array of beautifully preserved homes that showcase diverse architectural styles. Avondale's commercial district, affectionately known as the "Shoppes of Avondale," adds to the neighborhood's allure. Here, you'll find a mix of boutique shops, delightful cafes, and gourmet restaurants, all housed in historic buildings that exude character and charm. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a coffee with friends, or an evening out.

As you explore, you’ll discover that its beauty and charm have not faded with time. If you are looking for a vibrant community to call home, Avondale will check all of your boxes!

🌿🏡 First impressions matter! 🏡 🌿

Curb appeal and landscaping play a crucial role in selling your home. A well-maintained exterior not only attracts potential buyers but also boosts your home’s value. Make your home stand out from the moment buyers arrive! 🌸✨

🏡✨ Under Contract! ✨🏡

Excited to share that this stunning home is officially under contract! Congratulations to my amazing clients on this big milestone. Next stop: closing day! 🎉🔑

Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸 What a blessing it is to wake up today and everyday with the freedoms of being American. Thank you to the men and women who fight and have fought to protect those freedoms. I wish you all a safe and fun 4th.

✨ Celebrating the Fourth of July with Friends and Family? Here are some tips to make it memorable! 🇺🇸

1️⃣ Classic Decor: Embrace the red, white, and blue theme! Simple touches like table runners and outdoor lights can set the perfect patriotic mood.

2️⃣ Delicious BBQ: Stick to the classics with burgers, hot dogs, and some healthy options. Don’t forget the homemade sides and salads!

3️⃣ Fun and Games: Keep everyone entertained with yard games, a well-curated playlist, and perhaps a few nostalgic board games.

4️⃣ Firework Safety: If you're planning on fireworks, ensure a safe designated area and have water or a fire extinguisher handy.

5️⃣ Comfort is Key: Make sure there's plenty of comfortable seating and shade. A hydration station with water and festive beverages is a great addition.

Wishing you a wonderful Fourth filled with joy, laughter, and cherished moments! 🎆✨

🌿 Upcoming Local Farmers Markets! 🌿

Looking for fresh produce, local goodies, and a fun weekend activity? Check out these fantastic farmers markets happening in our area:

🍓 Beaches Green Market
📍 Penman Rd.
🗓️ Saturday, 6/29
⏰ 10 AM - 2 PM

🍅 Atlantic Beach Farmers Market
📍 Jack Russell Park
🗓️ Sunday, 6/30
⏰ 10 AM - 2 PM

🎨 Riverside Arts Market
📍 Under the Fuller Warren Bridge
🗓️ Saturday, 6/29
⏰ 10 AM - 3 PM

🍋 St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market
📍 St. Augustine Amphitheatre
🗓️ Saturday, 6/29
⏰ 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Support our local farmers, enjoy delicious treats, and find unique handmade crafts. See you there! 🌞🥕🌸

🏡 OPEN HOUSE this Saturday! 🏡

Join us on June 29th from 11 AM to 2 PM to tour this stunning full stucco home nestled in the heart of serene nature. This elegant residence features 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a versatile office/flex room perfect for remote work or a creative studio.

✨ Highlights:
- Open floor plan connecting the living, dining, and kitchen areas
- Covered patio overlooking a tranquil lake and lush green space
- Enjoy sightings of deer, turkeys, beavers, otters, and various birds
- 3-car garage for ample storage and parking
- Located in the highly desirable St. Johns County School District
- Very low HOA fees and no CDD fees

Don't miss out on this exceptional home offering both elegance and comfort in a picturesque setting. We can't wait to show you around! 🌟

📍 Address: 187 Lige Branch Ln. St. Johns, FL 32259

Did you know that our local real estate contracts recently changed? In our local market, we previously used what are called NEFAR contracts for most real estate sales. However, we recently switched to FAR contracts. Why does this matter? Because part of the benefit of hiring a Realtor® is their knowledge of these documents. If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, I urge you task your agent if they are familiar with the new documents and if they have received any additional training on them.

Our brokerage has offered 15 hours of training in addition to what is offered by our local board of realtors. Knowing the ins and outs of these documents can keep a deal together, and not knowing could be the reason it falls apart.

As always, I'm here to answer any questions when it comes to our local market.

It's a great week to have a great week.

I hope you had a wonderful weekend and a productive Monday. Here's to a great week. 🙂

🏡 NEW LISTING ALERT! 🏡

Join us for an Open House:
📅 Saturday, 6/22 from 11-2
📅 Sunday, 6/23 from 12-3

Discover the perfect blend of elegance and comfort in this stunning full stucco home nestled in the heart of serene nature. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a versatile office/flex room, this home is designed for modern living. The open floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas, ideal for family gatherings and entertaining.

Step outside to a covered patio overlooking a tranquil lake and lush green space, perfect for spotting deer, turkeys, beavers, otters, and a variety of birds. Enjoy the peaceful retreat right in your backyard.

✨ Highlights:
🚗 3-car garage
🌳 Low HOA fees
❌ No CDD fees
🏫 Located in the highly desirable St. Johns County School District

Don’t miss out on this exceptional home offering unparalleled value and lifestyle. See you this weekend!