Leslie Ferro, Realtor

05/01/2026

🚨 We never thought we would be in the business of giving financial advice… but here we are. 💸🚔

Since launching the School Zone Speed Enforcement Program on April 24, 2026, we have already documented over 2,400 violations.

The average speed? About 37 to 38 mph in a 20 mph active school zone.

We will be honest… we would MUCH rather see you spend your hard-earned money on things you enjoy, not a $100 citation for putting children at risk.

Let’s talk about life right now for a second:

⛽ Gas prices are climbing like a SpaceX rocket

🏠 Mortgage rates are making homeownership tough

⚡ Electric bills… we will leave that one alone

🛒 Groceries… “u pick beef” is starting to sound tempting

Bottom line: Life is expensive, and speeding is one cost you can absolutely control.

⚠️ Here is what you need to know:

📅 The warning period ends May 24, 2026

After that:

• Speed 11 mph or more over in an active school zone = $100 citation

• Speed 15 mph or more when school is in session, even if the zone is not active = $100 citation

• Yes, summer school zones count

👍 The “good” news if you get one:

This is an administrative citation
✔️ No points on your license
✔️ Not reported to your insurance

🚫 But here is the reality check:

If a Deputy stops you for the same behavior, consequences are significantly higher:

• 10 to 14 mph over in a school zone
$299 fine, 4 points on your license, reported to insurance

• 15 to 19 mph over in a school zone
$399 fine, 4 points on your license, reported to insurance

• 15 mph or more over outside an active school zone
$249 fine, 4 points on your license, reported to insurance

⚠️ One more thing…
If you are thinking, “I just won’t pay it and it will go away,” it will not.

Unpaid citations can turn into a Uniform Traffic Citation, which DOES affect your driving record.

✅ The simplest solution:

Slow down. Protect our kids. Save your money.
We promise, that is the best financial advice we can give.

02/19/2026

The Water Management Districts have declared a Phase 1 Water Shortage for all of Alachua County. We invite residents and businesses to follow recommended water-conservation measures to protect our aquifers, lakes, springs and rivers.

You can also follow My Yard Our Water for helpful tips.

02/17/2026

City of Gainesville and tree removal. Know before you cut!

11/08/2025

Buying a home during the holiday season can be a smart move — there's often less competition, sellers may be more motivated, and you could close before the new year. But November and December come with one major consideration: holiday closures. From banks to title companies, many of the key...

10/29/2025

10/28/2025

NEW LISTING ALERT! Experience the serenity and welcoming charm of Alachua Highlands with this spacious 2,127 SF home set on a fully fenced and gated 3.35-acre lot surrounded by mature trees. Designed for comfort and versatility, the open layout features abundant natural light and scenic views from every room. The living area flows seamlessly into a generous kitchen, offering ample cabinetry and a sunlit dining nook—ideal for everyday living and gatherings. The spacious primary suite includes a walk-in closet and an updated bath with a single vanity and walk-in shower. Additional bedrooms provide flexible options for guests or a home office, while a bonus space can serve perfectly as a dining room or an extra office. Enjoy the freedom to entertain or relax in flexible living spaces, including a large laundry room with plenty of room for crafting and hobbies. Step out to the covered patio and immerse yourself in peaceful country evenings—perfect for BBQs, quiet reflection, or watching nature unfold in your own backyard oasis. Practical amenities abound: a utility building/workshop is ready for lawn equipment or woodworking projects, and a metal carport is ideal for storing a boat or extra vehicles. Gardening enthusiasts will appreciate the fenced garden area within the expansive property. Other highlights include an oversized two-car garage with abundant storage and affordable City of Alachua utilities, ensuring convenience and value. Living here means friendly neighbors, tranquil surroundings, and quick access to local schools, shopping, dining options, and Gainesville via I-75. This move-in ready home offers space, comfort, and countless lifestyle possibilities—ideal for buyers seeking privacy, flexibility, and a true country setting. Schedule your private tour today and discover your perfect retreat in Alachua Highlands!

08/14/2025

60 years strong, built on trust, memories, and the joy of helping families find their place to call home. 💙

01/21/2025

Alachua County Public Schools families and staff:

Based on updated information on the potential impact of the winter storm on our area, our schools and district offices will be closed on Wednesday, January 22. All extracurricular activities that day are also cancelled.

It is expected that schools and district offices will reopen on Thursday, January 23. If that changes, the district will notify families and staff through email, phone and text. Any changes will also be posted on the district’s website at https://www.sbac.edu and on its social media pages.

The missed day will not have to be made up due to the instructional minutes gained during the 2024-25 school year due to the reduction in the number of early-release Wednesdays for elementary schools.

Information from Alachua County’s Emergency Management office, including updated forecasts and tips to help you deal with the cold weather, is available on Facebook at Alachua County Emergency Management.

We hope you and your family remain safe during this storm.

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CIERRE de Escuelas y Oficinas ACPS Enero 22

Familias y empleados de las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Alachua:

Basados en la información actualizada del potencial impacto de la tormenta invernal en nuestra área, nuestras escuelas y oficinas del distrito permanecerán cerradas este miércoles 22 de enero. Todas las actividades extracurriculares también quedan suspendidas en la misma fecha.

Se espera, que las escuelas y oficinas del distrito escolar reabran de manera regular este jueves 23 de enero. De haber cambios, el distrito estará informando a las familias y empleados a través de correos electrónicos, llamadas telefónicas y mensajes de texto. También, será publicado en nuestro portal https://www.sbac.edu y en nuestros perfiles en las redes sociales.

El día perdido de clases no tendrá que ser recuperado, ya que se había previsto tiempo adicional académico a través de la reducción de salida temprana los miércoles para escuela básica.

Para información sobre el Manejo de Emergencias del Condado de Alachua y sus oficinas, incluyendo actualizaciones del clima y sugerencias para ayudar a cómo manejarse con clima de invierno, se puede encontrar en su perfil de Facebook (Facebook.com.AlachuaCoEM)

Esperamos que ustedes y sus familias permanezcan a salvo durante esta tormenta.

10/28/2024

Selling your home? Here are the mistakes to avoid.

Create a more seamless and successful home sale process when you avoid these common Seller errors.

10/25/2024

Homeownership is within reach. Use these tips to learn how to find the right mortgage for you.

The right mortgage can help make homeownership a reality. Learn how to find the right one with these tips.