Home In The Bay

05/30/2026

"Why did my taxes increase even though my property’s market value decreased?"
The ‘recapture rule’ may apply if the just/market value of the property decreases. The assessed value will still increase by 3%(homestead)/CPI or 10% (non-homestead) annually until it reaches the just/market value. Assessed value can never be more than just/market value. When the just/market value increases, the applicable cap will again limit future increases of the assessed value.

08/01/2025

🎉 MEGA OPEN HOUSE EVENT – THIS SATURDAY! 🏡

📍 Arbor Greene Community
🗓 Saturday, August 2nd | 12 PM – 3 PM

Come tour 5 incredible homes in the highly sought-after Arbor Greene — a resort-style gated community with 24/7 manned security, pools, tennis courts, clubhouse, and quick access to I-75!

🌟 Featured Homes on the Tour:

🏠 18003 Arbor Crest Dr – $450,000
🏠 10232 Estuary Dr – $635,000
🏠 18004 Avalon Ln – $700,000
🏠 10218 Garden Alcove Dr – $819,000
🏠 17818 Arbor Greene Dr – $875,000

Whether you’re shopping for your dream home or exploring what makes Arbor Greene so special, don’t miss this exciting event!

📸 Come for the homes, stay for the community vibe — we can’t wait to see you there!

07/09/2025

🏡💡 Important Update for Florida Homeowners!

The My Safe Florida Home Program is making some exciting updates — and if you're a homeowner in the Sunshine State, this could mean big savings AND added protection for your property! 🌀🔨

The program offers free wind mitigation inspections and grants for home hardening improvements — like upgrading windows, doors, and roofs — which can also lead to lower insurance premiums 💸

✅ Now accepting more applications
✅ Matching grants up to $10,000
✅ New funding secured for even more homeowners!

If you’ve been thinking about strengthening your home before storm season or reducing your insurance costs, this is the perfect opportunity.

📲 Contact me if you’d like help navigating the process or finding trusted contractors to complete the work.

👉 Read more here:
https://www.floridarealtors.org/news-media/news-articles/2025/07/my-safe-florida-home-program-updates

A $280 million infusion of funding means new opportunities to take advantage of the My Safe Florida Home program.

06/27/2025

🔑 House Hunting in the Tampa Bay Area? Let’s find your perfect home!

Join me this weekend at two amazing open houses—each with standout features, beautiful layouts, and prime locations!

🏡 Saturday | 11AM–1PM
📍 3966 Tour Trace, Land O' Lakes
Spacious floorplan, conservation views, and a rare 4-car garage in Bexley!

🏡 Sunday | 12PM–3PM
📍 10232 Estuary Dr, Tampa
Gorgeous Hanna Bartoletta home in Arbor Greene with a screened lanai and serene lake views!

Come tour, ask questions, and envision your next move. I’d love to help you make Tampa Bay home!

06/13/2025

06/09/2025

🌴 Florida Insurance News: 2025 Outlook Continues to Look Brighter! 🌤️

We’ve got good news for Florida homeowners and buyers! The latest update from Florida Realtors shows that the property insurance market is finally stabilizing. After years of rising rates and fewer options, things are looking up. 🙌

✅ Rates are leveling off or dropping in some areas
✅ More insurance companies are re-entering the market
✅ Legislative reforms are making a real impact

📉 In fact, some parts of Florida—especially here in the Tampa Bay and Southwest FL areas—are seeing 15–20% lower rates year-over-year! This could be a game changer for buyers who were hesitant due to high insurance costs.

💡 Tips for homeowners and buyers:
• Review your current coverage (especially windstorm & flood)
• Ask about wind mitigation credits
• Don’t wait until a storm is coming—prepare now!

🏠 Whether you’re buying, selling, or just have questions about what this means for your home, we’re here to help.

📩 [email protected] | 📞 813-693-1876 or 813-563-2185
🔗 www.homeinthebay.com

Call now to connect with business.

05/08/2025

🏡 Thinking About Buying a New Construction Home in Florida? Read This First! 🏗️✨

There’s nothing like the excitement of designing your dream home—custom finishes, brand-new appliances, and that fresh home feel. But before you walk into a builder’s sales office, know this: their reps work for the builder, not for you.

✅ That’s where your Realtor comes in.

When you have an experienced Realtor by your side, you get: ✔️ Expert guidance through builder contracts (which are not the same as resale agreements)
✔️ Advocacy during negotiations and design decisions
✔️ Insider knowledge on communities, builder reputations, and hidden incentives
✔️ Coordination of inspections, walkthroughs, and timelines
✔️ Peace of mind—(most builders pay Realtor commissions)

🚫 Don’t risk navigating new construction alone.
💬 Let’s connect today and explore new communities together—confidently and with your best interests first.

📩 Send us a message or comment “NEW” below and we’ll reach out!

05/06/2025

Hurricane season officially starts June 1st—and now is the time to make sure your homeowners insurance policy is up to date.

Too often, homeowners discover gaps in their coverage after a storm hits. Reviewing your policy now gives you peace of mind and the chance to make changes before it’s too late.

📝 What to Look For:
Hurricane or windstorm deductibles – These are usually separate from your standard deductible. Know what yours is and how it applies.
Flood insurance – Standard homeowners policies don’t cover flooding. If you’re in Florida, even outside high-risk zones, it’s worth considering. Remember, FEMA has a 30 day waiting period for new policies.
Personal property limits – Are your valuables (electronics, jewelry, furniture) covered at replacement cost?
Temporary living expenses – If your home becomes unlivable, will your policy help with hotel stays and meals?
Don’t forget about your pool and screen enclosures, make sure they are covered and the replacement or repair cost align with your policy.

📷 Pro Tip:
Take updated photos or a video walkthrough of your home and belongings annually. It makes claims easier and faster in the event of damage. Taking 30 minutes now could save you thousands and a major headache later.

Need a referral to a trusted local insurance agent? We’re happy to connect you.