Living in Tampa

A little lesson about “Boxes”, “Cones” and other “Hurricane Lingo” that can affect closing on your home in Tampa, or anywhere in the State of Florida. Tampa was lucky last week, as Tropical Storm Fay zig-zagged her way across the State of Florida, dumping over 20 inches of rain in some areas, we barely got a sprinkle! While parts of the State are still flooded, yet another storm, Hurricane Gustav is already aiming for the Gulf of Mexico. Why is that important to anyone buying a home in Tampa, or anywhere in Florida, over the next week, or so? If you overheard any Real ... Read Full Story

In November, along with electing a new President of the United States, Hillsborough County voters will decide on whether, or not, to create a “County Mayor” position. There has been much confusion about this position, so it is a good idea to “get informed” about the “Facts vs. Myths” …on any subject…before heading to the ballot box. The County Mayoral position would not be an additional expense to the taxpayers, but it would be a NON-PARTISAN, ELECTED official. It would replace the County Administrator position, which is not an elected position, but is rather, appointed by the County Commission. The County Mayor would “run” ... Read Full Story

After you buy a house in Tampa, you will be searching for all of the best places to eat. I have been dying for a pizza this week! An engrossing schedule has kept me from surrendering to the “pizza lust”, so far, but it has prompted many conversations with my friends and colleagues about where to best satisfy the “yearning” for the perfect pizza, in Tampa. I have had some great pizzas all over the world…the island of Kauai, Monaco, Florence…very tasty and not a “green pepper” in sight! For me, it’s all about the crust. I’m the first to “scavenge” leftover crust off ... Read Full Story

THE LATEST NEWS ON THE TAMPA REAL ESTATE MARKET, BUYING REAL ESTATE IN TAMPA, OR REAL ESTATE AROUND THE WORLD, EVERY DAY, ON THE REAL ESTATE SIZZLE…. When you are buying a house in Tampa, or have just moved to the area you will be searching for the best places to eat in Tampa! Ybor City is Tampa’s “Latin Quarter”. Reminiscent of parts of The French Quarter in New Orleans, it was home to many cigar factories in the early 20th century. Seventh Avenue, also known as “La Septima” and its’ historic buildings have been restored and Ybor City is home to some unique ... Read Full Story

It has been an interesting week in the NFL, with a major impact on Tampa, which hosts the Superbowl on February 1. Welcome home to Tony Dungy! Enjoy your retirement and your return to  your family in Tampa. The community  has sorely missed you.  You have taught us that being a great coach begins with being a great person.  You are an inspiration to every athlete, coach, parent and child. Your personal values and respect for others have proven to us that outstanding results come from encouragement, respect and an expectation of excellence from within. We were ecstatic to see you take the Colts to a Superbowl ... Read Full Story