Issuu

M A R C H 2 02 1

ALSO SERVING HORIZON WEST AND WINDERMERE

Extraordinary times. Extraordinary service.

T hank you!

Windsor at Celebration thanks our incredible residents, employees, their families, and the community for their support during this time of global crisis. We are proud to be part of the extraordinary town of Celebration. Senior living this amazing could only be in Celebration. To learn more about securing a plan for the future, call (407) 218-8301

(407) 218-8301

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ORLANDO OUTDOOR LIVING IS CHANGING THE WAY YOU ENJOY THE OUTDOORS. With our products, family gatherings, parties and cookouts can be successful in any weather conditions – whether rain or shine. We place a high value on creating functional and beautiful designs tailored to each home environment. This is only possible through our close collaboration with clients. Orlando Outdoor Living’s attention to detail and regard for our clients’ requirements results in an outdoor experience that not only honors each client’s unique style, but also creates a comfortable space that they can enjoy for years.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2021 PUBLISHER

Anthony S Adams | anthony.adams@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Your Home Is Uniquely Yours THE BEST THING ABOUT YOUR HOME IS IT’S THE ONLY ONE EXACTLY LIKE IT. Sure, your neighbors’ homes may have a similar style or paint color, but the way you decorate each room and the memories you create truly make it uniquely yours.

Michelle Malay Sanchez michelle.malaysanchez@lifestylepubs.com STAFF WRITER

Austin Arthur AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER

Maybe you’re in the market for a new home, ready to make changes to your existing home, looking for design inspirations, or just looking for maintenance tips; we have you covered! As you read about the great things West Orange Habitat for Humanity is doing; trends in outdoor living spaces; real estate tips from top agents; why having an agent for a new home purchase is important, and tips for keeping your current home in tip-top shape from our local pros, I encourage you also to remember that it’s YOU that makes your house a home!

Jayme Emery CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Sanchez, Tracey Forrester, Candice Hawks CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jefffrey Hegarty / Xiao Pang, Michelle Sanchez, Austin Arthur, Orlando Health, West Orange Habitat for Humanity, Orlando Outdoor Living / StruXure, Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet

We also want to send some love to our Advertising Partners. We support Buying Local! Every one of the businesses and organizations you see advertising in our magazine has been vetted by us and have the same involvement and dedication to our community as we do. Thank you, Xiao Pang, of Blue Chip International Realty (407-602-6000), for the

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

beautiful cover image from her listing at 7724 Minutemen Loop, right here in

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Horizon West!

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

So, while you look for your dream home, hunt design inspirations, build that to-do

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

list, or even volunteer to help a neighbor, we invite you to remember that a home is

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

more than just four walls; it’s where families grow, memories are made, and life happens - Find what makes your house a home!—and don’t forget to share it with us. Thank you for inviting us into your home and sharing your lives with us. Here’s to you and your family; live boldly, enjoy our community, be involved, and truly Live

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Your Best Life!

Anthony S Adams, Publisher

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

JEFFFREY HEGARTY (JEFF@JEFFHEGARTYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM) 4

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

Proverbs 3:5-6 Winter Garden Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Media Partners LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Winter Garden area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Media Partners’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Media Partners does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Winter Garden Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2021 FEATURES 10 So, you are ready to purchase new home construction? Advice From Tracey Forrester Realtor with Xcellence Realty, Inc.

12 Bringing Affordable Homes to East Winter Garden Austin Arthur talks with Marilyn Hattaway, Executive Director of the West Orange Habitat for Humanity.

22 Turning Inside Out(side) Outdoor Living Trends

12 26

26 Real Estate Market Insights From The Pros What Buyers and Sellers Need To Know Now

10 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Local Limelight

Hometown Hero

30 Trend Setter

GOOD TIMES 1.

Epcot International Festival of the Arts Delights Foodies and Artists Alike Epcot International Festival of the Arts just wrapped up its 2021 celebration. This year marked the five year anniversary of the festival, which offers live music and art performances, gallery exhibits, food studios and more!

Give your home the protection it deserves. Craig A. Martin ChFC, CLU, CLF, Agent

C. Martin Ins. and Fin. Scvs. Inc.

Your home is where you make some of your best memories, and it’s worth protecting. I’m here to help.

LET’S TALK TODAY.

14416 Shoreside Way Winter Garden, FL 34787 Ofc. 407-656-1040 Craig@CraigMartinInsurance.com CraigMartinInsurance.com 1708136

State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL | State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL | State Farm Lloyds, Richardson, TX 8

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

AROUND TOWN

WINTER GARDEN HONEY FARM IS A SWEET SPOT Winter Garden Honey Farm located at 9816 Tower Pine Drive in Winter Garden offers a variety of sizes and styles of local honey, elderberry syrup, honey soap bars, and more. They are open daily from 7:00am to 7:00pm and will be able to satisfy any and all of your sweet cravings.

SMOKING SOUL BBQ - PICK-UP AND NOW POP-UP LOCATIONS! The craft BBQ from Smoking Soul BBQ that their “Soul Mates” have all come to love has, expanded to include pop-up locations throughout Winter Garden, Horizon West, and Windermere. Follow on social media (@TheSmokingSoul) to see where they’re cooking next. For pick-up or to cater your

BEER WITH PURPOSE

personal or corporate event, call or text Chef David Betz at 407-913-6203.

Second Harvest Food Bank's A Spoon Full of Hope collaborated with Hourglass Brewing to create An Hourglass Full of Hope, a smooth Koelschip cooled steam lager brewed with five gallons of A Spoon Full of Hope Orange Blossom Honey and Honeycomb Toffee. The craft brew recently launched to benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida Culinary Training Program, a 16 week no-cost program for at risk and economically disadvantaged adults. The program provides culinary and life skills training needed to pursue a sustainable career in the food industry.

LUCCIANO'S II MAESTRO DEL GELATO OPENS FIRST US LOCATION Lucciano’s, Il Maestro del Gelato, has recently opened its first US location here in Central Florida. Located inside the Florida Mall at 8001 S Orange Blossom Trail Suite #426, Orlando, they serve the

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and ice pops that you will love.

Made for all life’s moments; Trimlight is a lifetime warrantied product run by a user-friendly, state of the art mobile app. 407.615.4418 / WWW.TRIMLIGHTORLANDO.COM CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

so, you are ready to purchase new home construction?

SO, YOU ARE READY TO PURCHASE NEW HOME

home. Afterall, most of the sales agents at the model homes

CONSTRUCTION? As you walk into the beautifully dec-

are phenomenal and are certainly knowledgeable about the

orated model home, your eyes and heart light up with

homes they are selling. So why should you hire a Realtor?

excitement! You are welcomed by the friendly sales agent

A local Realtor is an expert in the area and can help

and without hesitation, you are tempted, with pen in hand,

navigate you through what you expressed were your

to sign on the dotted line. Many people wonder if it is bene-

needs and wants. Although your Realtor cannot interpret

ficial, if it’s a great idea or if it’s even worth having a Realtor

the contract, they can help keep you organized and on

by your side when considering purchasing their new

track with important dates and timelines. Your Realtor

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

may also be able to negotiate a better deal or have other incentives

to pay the Realtor for bringing their clients to purchase one of their

put in place that may not have been originally offered to you. Your

homes. If you speak to most New Construction Sales Agents, they love

Realtor is there to serve as your mediator between the builder, the

working with local Realtors! There is a team and a partnership that is

lender, title company, foreman etc.; someone working on your behalf

formed to ensure that you, the buyer, has the best experience possible

and looking out for your best interests. They will be there to help

when considering purchasing one of their beautiful homes.

schedule important appointments and advise you on things that you

Buying new construction can be exciting and scary at the same

may lose sight of in all of the excitement. For example, the benefits

time! Whether you are purchasing an inventory home, able to close

of hiring an independent inspector to inspect the home prior to you

within 30 days or you are building from scratch with your build time

occupying the property. Your Realtor is your partner and someone

anticipated for 6 months out, 8 months out or even a year in some

you can bounce ideas off to help minimize the stress.

cases, your Realtor will be by your side every step of the way to help

Many people may think that they can get a “better deal” if they do

guide you through the process. Always hire a Realtor when pur-

not have a Realtor. The thought may be, if the builder has to pay the

chasing New Home Construction. It can certainly be a tremendous

Realtor’s commission, you won’t be able to get the best price. It’s quite

benefit to you in your new home purchase.

the contrary, since your Realtor’s commission is not tied to the price of the home, there is most always an opportunity to get you the best deal

Tracey Forrester GRI, GKC

when there is a Realtor involved in the transaction. The commission

Realtor with Xcellence Realty, Inc.

actually comes from a separate account that the builder has set aside

Email: tracey@traceyforrester.com

Tracey Forrester

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

HOMETOWN HERO

ARTICLE AUSTIN ARTHUR

BRING ING AFFORDAB LE HOMES TO E AST WINTE R GARDE N AUSTIN ARTHUR TALKS WITH MARILYN HATTAWAY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE WEST ORANGE HABITAT FOR HUMANITY.

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

IT HAS BEEN REPORTED THAT IN EAST WINTER GARDEN THERE ARE OVER 1,600 INDIVIDUALS. Nearly half of the families that comprise these individuals earn less than $25,000 per household. Many of them are spending as high as 80% of their income in rent, and unemployment in this area is reported to be over 25% (pre-COVID). It is not an understatement to say that all of us should have this portion of our community in our hearts and minds. However, it is not enough to care, we must also take action. Such action is underway by many in our community, and Marilyn Hattaway is a leading figure among them. As the Executive Director of the West Orange Habitat for Humanity and in partnership with the city of Winter Garden, the Polis Institute, and 321 Works, Hattaway is overseeing the construction of a new community in East Winter Garden. Named Criswell Court, this four-house community will be beautiful and affordable housing with an aim at preserving the culture and history of East Winter Garden. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

Habitat for Humanity is a global nonprofit housing organization that helps restore and build homes for the less fortunate among us. Including families here in Winter Garden via the West Orange Habitat for Humanity affiliation located on Highway 50 in the same plaza as Gymnastics USA. Marilyn, a Certified Fund Raising Executive and a lifelong Florida resident, attended college at the University of South Florida. She began her career in national sales and marketing but in 2002, entered the nonprofit development industry. Prior to working with Habitat for Humanity, Marilyn was the Executive Director of the nonprofit Hospice of the Comforter Foundation, a position she held for 10 years. During her career she has helped to change the lives of thousands through both the Hospice of the Comforter and now with

Marilyn Hattaway and Austin Arthur

Habitat for Humanity, by connecting donors to the missions they are passionate about. “We all work within our local communities to bring donors, volunteers, corporations, foundations, individuals, and churches together to wrap their minds and volunteer hearts around this ecumenical Christian organization, where we build homes for people,” Marilyn explained as we sat down together for an episode of the

After Thought Show. She also defined further the principles of their organization by stating, “We believe that everyone deserves a decent place to live and we really focus on the fact that we lend a hand up and not a handout.”

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

“ We must also take a c t i o n .”

The Habitat for Humanity does not give away

to save for a small down payment. Finally, they need

homes to families, the goal of the organization is to

to take a financial literacy course and a homeowner

bring forth affordable housing and the applicants

course,” explained Marilyn.

must qualify and earn the home based on a few merit based factors.

The applicants are set up for success and assigned to a mentor who works with them diligently through the

“The first qualification is they have to demonstrate

process, guiding them through the courses, the sweat

that they really do face a housing need. Secondly, they

equity, and eventually getting the keys to their new

have to be willing to partner with us. This means they

home. All of their mortgages are affordable ranging

put in 200 hours of sweat equity … working on their

anywhere from $400-$500 a month with zero interest

own home or the homes of others. They also need

and never exceed over 30% of the homeowner’s wages.

“ We believe that everyone deserves a decent place to live and we really focus on the fact that we lend a hand up and n o t a h a n d o u t .”

Marilyn explained that their success rate is tremendous and her passion for the people she takes part in helping is palpable. “These are people who bag your groceries at Publix, who are waiting on you at Taco Bell… they are the people who are mowing your lawn … they're our neighbors and we want to keep them in the West Orange community,” said Marilyn while explaining the importance of helping the Habitat for Humanity in its mission.

Orlando Health CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

HOMETOWN HERO (CONTINUED)

Marilyn explained that there are three ways to help; by donating “time, money, or stuff”. Folks in the community can go to their website http://www.westorangehabitat.com and sign up to volunteer their time or to donate money. She explained that every donation is greatly important, “We love it when individuals remember us to give even a small gift, because $10 buys a box of nails ... and we need lots of boxes!” At the Habitat for Humanity ReStore (13369 W Colonial Dr, Winter Garden), they take donations of materials including any manner of construction materials or home furniture which is then sold to the public at their ReStore location or used on their construction sites. “Builders are a really incredible resource for us. For example, builders who order tile for a new home and then find themselves with 400 square feet of tile leftover, we put that in our ReStore and put it to work, which keeps it out of the landfill and it also makes nice buy for somebody coming in who's redoing their home,” Marilyn explained. The organization is doing a lot of good in East Winter Garden and beyond but they do not and cannot do it alone. As Marilyn concluded, “There is a way for everybody

“Builders are a really incredible r e s o u r c e fo r u s .” 16

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

to get involved, we would first ask for everybody to pray for our mission, pray for our families, and pray for our organization because we need all the prayers we can get. Secondly, get involved! Get involved with time, money, or stuff. Come and volunteer with us… if it's a $10 donation you can make on our website (https://www.westorangehabitat.org),

that.

Either way, we really hope that you'll keep West Orange Habitat in your heart and in your mind. When the opportunity arises, we hope you'll say yes, I'll be there.” EDITORIAL BY AUSTIN ARTHUR | TO VIEW FULL TALK, VISIT WWW.AFTERTHOUGHTSHOW.COM

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

ARTICLE MICHELLE SANCHEZ

mhous r a f e

flair

DRIFTWOOD MARKET, LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN WINTER GARDEN OFFERS LOCAL FLARE TO SPRUCE UP YOUR HOME, WITH A VARIETY OF CUSTOM AND STOCKED ITEMS CREATED BY LOCAL ARTISANS. Popular items include custom wooden signs and zip code pillows, both of which are trendy and add a homey feel for local residents. Driftwood Market Owner, Tina Butler, has a heartfelt connection to the store. She began crafting when her father passed away in 2014. She started painting wooden signs as a creative outlet, and eventually became a vendor at Driftwood Market. The opportunity arose in early 2020 to takeover the store, and Tina 18

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

jumped at the occasion. "Its been a rocky start but I am loving every minute of it! We have the best customers and community support, as well as the most amazing local artisans and I cant wait to see what the future holds for us all” said Tina. Over twenty local artisans create and sell home goods, decor, and furniture, offering a diverse selection of unique handmade furnishings and gifts. Anastasia Spring, Driftwood Market vendor, and furniture artist, designs and paints the specialty dressers, buffets, and cabinets. Pieces can be designed to order or customized to fit a customer's unique style or home needs. Anastasia, who works closely with Tina, describes the store style as "modern Farmhouse with a splash of eclectic furniture and art pieces. Whatever comes in the store, we try to

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

FARMHOUSE FLAIR (CONTINUED)

n a rock e e b y s t oving ev star l “I t but I er ” am ! t y m i f o inute incorporate every piece in overall design. With ever changing inventory, you can always find something new when you come in, whether it is a piece of décor or decorative jewelry." Interactive workshops are held in one of the store's back rooms. The schedule is constantly changing depending on the season or customer interest. Previous workshop categories include wreath making, wooden monogram creation, hand painted signs and wine glasses, and more. Driftwood is also offering private workshops for small groups. The Maker's Space is perfect for your next girls' night out, birthday party, team building event, or couples date night.

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

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Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet

T U R N I NG OU T S I DE I N ( S I DE )

StruXure

OUTDOOR LIVING TRENDS THAN MAKE YOU WANT TO LIVE OUTDOORS

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

StruXure

ARTICLE ANTHONY S. ADAMS

Orlando Outdoor Living

ON THE TOP OF THE WISH LIST FOR MOST HOME-

backyard on a new outdoor griddle,” said Chef David

OWNERS AND HOME-HUNTERS IS AN OUTDOOR

Betz of Smoking Soul BBQ. He added, “cooking at home,

LIVING SPACE. As we’ve spent much more time in our

and especially outdoors, has become the new form of

homes over the last year, an outdoor space that goes

‘Dining Experience.’”

beyond the traditional outdoor furniture and a large umbrella has become a necessity.

Gary Klein, a local Real Estate Agent with Level Realty, shares, “homebuyers rank additional square footage, the

“Being outdoors has always been a huge draw to liv-

backyard, and neighborhood as the top three consider-

ing in Central Florida,” said Al Villamil, Founder and CEO

ations when looking for a home... The outdoor space is

of Orlando Outdoor Living, “and now, with much more of

equally as important as the indoor space, especially here

our lives being at home, transforming your backyard into

in Central Florida where it’s truly additional and usable

an area to cook, dine, work, relax, or as a sanctuary has

living space.”

become critical.”

It’s not just outdoor kitchens that are in demand for out-

As of last month, year-over-year Google searches for

door living spaces. Consumer reports indicate sales of fire

outdoor living terms has increased over 450%. Wayfair

pits, trampolines, backyard games, gardening supplies,

reports searches for “outdoor kitchen” and “outdoor

pools, and outdoor living structures top the list as families

dining” rose 130%, and searches for “outdoor bars”

search for new ways to entertain themselves at home.

increased 155% during the period.

“People are looking for livability and private outdoor

Russ Faulk, Head of Product at Kalamazoo Outdoor

space that goes beyond the traditional outdoor kitchen

Gourmet, says that consumers are taking the oppor-

and caged-in pool,” said Villamil, who specializes in build-

tunity to learn new grilling and outdoor cooking tech-

ing luxury outdoor living areas and is the only authorized

niques and hone their skills. “They’re learning to use a

agent for StruXure Pergolas in Central Florida.

kamado and cook with charcoal, or to master wood-fired

Villamil adds that people are looking for their outdoor

grilling. Trying to master that perfect pizza dough and

spaces to be multi-functional, “they want formal adult

pizza-making skills with new pizza ovens… All of these

spaces, kid spaces, areas to be covered and sheltered

things are great ways to enjoy extra time with family, and

from the Florida elements with others being open to the

the newfound skills will pay dividends, in the form of

sun. Cozy nooks and intimate spots for relaxing and con-

great meals,” he says.

versation and larger entertaining (when we are able to

“Across social media, we’ve seen a huge increase

do that again) and outdoor dining spaces.”

in pictures and posts from home-cooks of their latest

Pergolas and pavilions are trending in outdoor liv-

pulled pork and smoked ribs that’s spent hours in their

ing design. A study by the National Kitchen and Bath

new smoker or teppan-yaki style dinner crafted in their

Association (NKBA) cited 52% of outdoor living space CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

TURNING OUTSIDE IN(SIDE) (CONTINUED)

StruXure

Orlando Outdoor Living

flexible and open; that means finding creative solutions for mosquito and pest control,” said Dustin Condos, Operating Partner at MosquitoNix. “As an example, residential mosquito misting systems

projects now include a fixed overhead structure;

are highly effective, nearly invisible, and can be

30% of those structures are pergolas. Another

easily added to existing outdoor living areas or

study also revealed that over 25% of homeown-

integrated into outdoor structures allowing you to

ers regret not “spending more time/money” on a

fully enjoy your outdoors nearly free of mosquitos,

shelter or shade enclosure for their outdoor space.

no-see-ums, and other unwanted bugs.”

People recognize that an outdoor structure

Fueled by the drastic decline in domestic and

is worth the investment because it extends the

international travel over the past year, homeown-

ability to use the space and allows the normal

er's interest in replicating the sophisticated style

indoor living to transition seamlessly outdoors.

and comforts of a luxury hotel or resort in their

The home design website Houzz.com notes that

homes has continued to grow.

pergolas and pavilions help to maximize usage of

Villamil adds, “Finding new ways to maximize

outdoor space, especially when the structure is

your living spaces and new forms of home enter-

customized. Features such as automatic louvered

tainment have always been important, even more

ceilings, integrated lighting, water features, out-

so now. With more of our community spending a

door audio/video, and retractable screens.

majority of their time at home and even working

“We are also seeing a trend in outdoor living

at home, our backyards have been transformed

for homes with pools, away from the typical ‘pool

into a true space for living and a choice destina-

cages.’ Outdoor spaces are becoming more

tion for the staycation.”

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

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WHAT BUYERS AND SELLERS NEED TO KNOW

TIFFANY PANTOZZI WITH SIDE REAL ESTATE 407-866-8555 TIFFANY@LIVELOVESELLORLANDO.COM

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CURRENT

R e a l E s tat e Market Insights From The Pros

REAL ESTATE MARKET IN OUR COMMUNITY?

Inventory is low and competition for desirable properties is high. As a buyer, you have to be prepared and

ready to make your best offer when you see the property you want. Sellers should not think just because

they have an advantage in this market that they do not have to do necessary preparations before putting their property on the market.

WHAT IS THE LARGEST TREND THAT MAKES HOMES MORE MARKETABLE? People want to be inside their homes more than ever. Having an abundance of amenities such as at-home gyms, work-at-home spaces, pools, theaters, different living, and entertaining spaces are currently in high demand. WHAT SHOULD EVERY SELLER KNOW RIGHT NOW? Sellers need to be careful not to be greedy. Markets are dynamic and momentum swings in both directions. Even with our low inventory and increasing demand, sellers must remain realistic. WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT AS A LOCAL REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL AND AGENT? My ability to utilize technology in my business has elevated the service and experience I provide my clients. My digital approach combined with my strategic selling and negotiation techniques and a network of top performing agents across the country, provide results to my clients.

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

PAUL FEDYNICH WITH THE ViP HOME TEAM AT THE REAL ESTATE COLLECTION 407-744-1681 WWW.THEViPHOME.TEAM

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CURRENT REAL ESTATE MARKET IN OUR COMMUNITY? When working with buyers, it is like mining for gold and requires patience and a lot of sifting to find that perfect home. It also requires swift action when you find the right one. It’s also a great time to sell your home if you find that the home you are in now doesn’t suit your current and future needs. WHAT IS THE LARGEST TREND THAT MAKES HOMES MORE MARKETABLE RIGHT NOW? People want new or newer homes. Home offices, flex rooms, and outdoor living space has become more of a need or strongly desired. WHAT SHOULD EVERY BUYER KNOW RIGHT NOW? We are in a seller’s market, so it’s even more important to be prepared. Get the mortgage pre-approval. Have your agent connect you to the MLS to receive the newest listings in real-time, move quickly, and make a strong offer when the right home is found. WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT AS A LOCAL REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL AND AGENT? It’s not only our knowledge, expertise, experience, and professionalism, but our ability to connect with our buyers and sellers. We understand that proper communication is the key to a successful transaction. We also specialize in working with our local community heroes (police, firefighters, military/ veterans, medical professionals, and teachers).

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

REAL ESTATE MARKET INSIGHTS FROM THE PROS (CONTINUED)

JOHN GORDON WITH THE GORDON GROUP AT PREMIER SOTHEBY’S 407-488-8802 GORDONGROUP@PREMIERSIR.COM

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CURRENT REAL ESTATE MARKET IN OUR COMMUNITY? Central Florida is a hotbed of growth due to great weather, great schools, low crime, and an abundance of lifestyle choices. Our community is a vibrant, growing place to live and real estate is appreciating well also. WHAT IS THE LARGEST TREND THAT MAKES HOMES MORE MARKETABLE RIGHT NOW? With more people working remotely, we see heavy relocation into the Horizon West/Hamlin area from all over the country. This is one of the main factors driving the low inventory of homes. WHAT SHOULD EVERY SELLER KNOW RIGHT NOW? The market is experiencing low inventory and although it’s a seller’s market, buyers are aggressively pursuing homes on the market. To maximize the opportunity, Sellers need experienced real estate agent representation. WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT AS A LOCAL REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL AND AGENT? I am an aggressive and very experienced agent with nearly 20 years’ experience in Central Florida, and I live in and specialize in Winter Garden.

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

M AT T T O M A S Z E W S K I WITH THE CORCORAN GROUP 407-719-5956 MATT@CORCORANGROUP.COM HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CURRENT

are more cautious on who they lend to, so we do

REAL ESTATE MARKET IN OUR COMMUNITY?

not repeat 2006.

There is urgency from buyers to find a home that works for them and make sure that they are not just

WHAT SHOULD EVERY BUYER KNOW

settling. With the limited inventory available, it is

RIGHT NOW?

becoming a challenging task. In contrast, sellers are

Not to settle on a home just because it is their only

trying to push their numbers as much as possible to

option today. Be patient and hopefully, the perfect

take advantage of the limited homes in the market.

home comes to the market soon.

SHOULD I GET PRE-APPROVED BEFORE HOUSE

WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT AS A LOCAL

HUNTING OR CONTACTING AN AGENT?

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL AND AGENT?

Yes, to make sure they meet all the guidelines

Years of expertise in this area, relationships with

with currently available programs. There have

so many agents and people who live in the area, and

been new guidelines put into place recently, as

my communication skills and ability to negotiate on

well as special programs available. Also, lenders

behalf of the buyer or seller. CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

TREND SETTER

Tips For Keeping Yo u r Home In T i p -T o p Shape

CUSTOM CARE BY CALEB

Caleb Regehr, Owner of local painting company Custom Care By Caleb (407-375-1425 / Service@ CustomCareByCaleb.com), shared that you should not worry too much about that ugly green ‘stuff’ growing on your home here in Central Florida – It’s mostly aesthetic. You should pressure wash the exterior of your home every year; Mud Dauber nests actually stain the paint, and you will need to touch up the paint after cleaning those off. Depending on sun and shade exposure you should paint your home’s exterior every 5 to 7 years and a good quality exterior latex/acrylic or elastomeric paint is best for our area. Renato Nogueira, Owner of Dive-In Pool Service and local pool & spa expert (407-234-1702 / DiveInPool@live.com), informed that your pool chemicals should be checked weekly, even for salt-water pools that generate chlorine automatically. Taking care of your pool and spa’s filter is critical; filter pressure should be checked weekly, and cleaning should be performed every 2 to 4 weeks depending on filter type & size. We have hard water in our area, and the hard-water stains/calcification on tile can be cleaned with a high-quality ‘tile scale remover’ and pumice stone. Just be

LOCAL EXPERT ADVICE ON MAINTAINING YOUR HOME

careful to rinse well and not swim immediately afterward, as some of these cleaners are acid-base. DIVE-IN POOL SERVICE

LIVING IN CENTRAL FLORIDA PROVIDES UNIQUE CHALLENGES FOR YOUR HOME, ONE OF YOUR LARGEST INVESTMENTS. Preventative maintenance not only keeps it looking beautiful and enjoyable it will also pay dividends down the road. We’ve assembled some advice from our community’s top experts on how to keep your home in tip-top shape.

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

NICK’S AC & HEATING

TOP DAWG POWER WASHING AND PAVER SEALING Top

Dawg

Power

Washing

and

Paver

Sealing

(407-697-8603 / TopDawgPowerWashing@gmail.com) recommends that hard surfaces such as unsealed pavers, cement driveways, and sidewalks/aprons should be pressure washed at least twice a year. Most HOA’s require you to clean the sidewalks, aprons, and curbs as well. The value of sealing your pavers is not only aesthetic, but also protects them from sun damage, mold, mildew, and algae. Using a professional to seal your pavers will extend the longevity and expect about 5 years from a high-quality sealer. Sealed surfaces should be low-pressure washed as needed.

Having your AC go out in Florida is never good and Nick’s AC & Heating (407-489-5060 / www.NicksACandHeat. com) says that although no one can predict when you will have an issue, preventative maintenance is key! Have your AC and heating units checked out twice per year, replace filters every 60-90 days, and ensure that the drip pan drains are clean and open. Most high-efficiency homes are designed to maintain one temperature and to lower your utility expenses; it’s best to do away with heating and cooling ‘programs’ and pick a single temperature that works best for you. Also, installing a U/V light in your air handlers is a great way to reduce molds and other allergens in your home.

VENT PRO DUCT CLEANING Just like your AC & heating system, air ducts require regular maintenance and as a general rule of thumb, Mike Schumaker, Owner of Vent Pro Duct Cleaning (817-682-2412), recommends duct cleaning every 3 to 5 years, even if you change your filters often. Due to safety reasons and to ensure your dryer’s longevity, dryer vents are more critical and require yearly cleaning. CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

Kingwood Offers the complete package Photo Credit: Anthony Lampros

18-Hole Championship Golf Course

This gorgeous piece of Blue Ridge Mountain offers: • 3 State Parks

• Horse Back Riding

• 148,684 acres of National Forest Land

• 20+ Public Waterfalls

• Mountain Bike Trails

• Foxfire Museum & Heritage Center

• 5 Lakes

• 2 Independent College Prep Schools

• 3 Whitewater Rafting Outfitters

• Vibrant Downtown Main Street

• World Class Canopy Zip Line Company

Highlands Aerial Park

On-Site Amenities

Wildwater Outfitter

• Winery Tasting Room • Full Spa • Boutique Hotel • Full Bar • On-Site Restaurant • Waterfall Hike • Tennis/Pickleball Courts • Outdoor & Indoor Pools

Clayton is Located in Beautiful Rabun County, Georgia

Single Family Homes $ starting at 199,900

Overlook at Kingwood Resort • Rental income opportunity with property management programs available – but is not required. • Only a 7 hour drive from Orlando area or a 2 hour flight to be in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain area.

Teri Dobbs

Teri@DobbsTeam.com Clayton, Georgia O: 706.782.3500 C: 706.982.3199

John R. Gordon P.A.

GordonGroup@PremierSIR.com Winter Garden, Florida O: 407.986.4892 C: 407.488.8802

MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL

HORIZON WEST FEST

WINDERMERE CARS & COFFEE

200 Epcot Center Dr,

Winter Garden, FL 34787 11am - 5pm

5170 Dr Phillips Blvd, Orlando, FL

Orlando, FL 32821

Join Horizon West Happenings for their

Come out to Le Cafe De Paris from

Visit Epcot from March 3rd until July

Horizon West Fest from 11am-5pm by

8-10am to see some amazing cars

5th for the longest Flower & Garden

the Cinépolis in the Hamlin village

and even better coffee!

Festival in Epcot's history! Enjoy fes-

center. There will be Live Music, a Kid’s

tival favorites, like topiary displays,

Zone, Talent Show, as well as Food

outdoor kitchens, gardens, exhibits,

& Frinks! For more information, visit

and more!

HorizonWestFest.com

5, 12, 19, 26

WINDERMERE FARMERS MARKET

OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT – THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS 2!

520 Main St, Windermere, FL

The

Windermere

Farmers

Market

14111 Shoreside Way,

27 YOUNG STAR MUSICAL THEATRE PRESENTS HAIRSPRAY

445 S Magnolia Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Hairspray, winner of eight Tony Awards, is a part of the Frontyard Festival series at the Dr. Phillips

16651 Schofield Rd, Clermont, FL 34714

Center for Performing Arts. This out-

occurs each Friday from 2-7pm in

Southern Hill Farms is hosting

door live entertainment experience

downtown WIndermere on Main Street.

their first Spring Break Outdoor

offers dinner and drinks delivered to

Movie Night featuring The Secret

your box from on-site restaurants.

Life of Pets 2! Outdoor activities

MUSEUMS ON US AT THE ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART

Gates will open at 5:30 and the

include yard games, covered playground, and fire pits with s'mores! movie will start at 7:30 pm.

2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803

Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders receive free admission to the Orlando Museum of Art March 6th or 7th as part of the Museum's on Us

14 DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE

28 MARDI GRAS INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS OF CARNAVAL

6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

Experience an international food festival with cuisine and entertainment inspired by worldwide Carnaval cele-

1300 S Denning Drive, Winter Park,

brations. Try flavors fromPuerto Rico,

card, along with a photo ID at the front

Florida 32789

Trinidad and Tobago, Germany, Spain,

desk. Book reservations in advance at

Visit the Mead Botanical Gardens for

and New Orleans. View ornate floats

oma.guide with code BOFA.

the newest experience from Creative

City Project. Guests will follow Alice

music, beads and more throughout

on a journey through the gardens

Universal Studios Orlando. Visit now

and bump into Wonderland favorites

until March 28, 2021, experience is

MUSIC AMONG THE LAKES

along the way. The experience runs

included with theme park admission.

until March 14, 2021 and will feature cir-

program. Present your debit or credit

Le Cafe De Paris

Pines of Windermere

cus arts, comedy, theater, and dance

3409 Maguire Rd, Windermere, FL

performances. Tickets available at

Windermere Wine & Dine is proud

www.creativecityproject.com.

display,

live

entertainment,

to present Music Among the Lakes,

Would you like to get in touch with

from 4:30-9pm, benefiting local food

us? We would love to hear from you!

pantries and at risk families that have

been impacted by COVID-19. https://

WinterGarden using the Get In Touch

nextdoor.com/events/3841867

link and let us know what you think.

Winter Garden Lifestyle | March 2021

SETTING THE INDUSTRY STANDARD IN POWER WASHING AND PAVER

TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR YARD. Paver Repairs. Paver Sealing. Paver Restoration. Pressurewashing.

SEALING FROM CENTRAL FLORIDA TO THE WEST COAST!

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CityLifestyle.com/WinterGarden

NOW OPEN

EXPERT CARE

CLOSER TO HOME. Central Florida continues to grow, and we continue to care for our community by offering our neighbors expanded access to a new state-of-the-art facility. At Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital, we’ve built upon years of quality service and advanced treatments. Our hospital features the latest technology in diagnostic imaging, cardiovascular care and robotic surgery. Expert care close to home is here now!

OrlandoHealth.com/HorizonWest