St. Augustine Real Estate Blog: August 2009

The St. George is a magnificent waterfront property carefully constructed by Richard Toomey, a builder who took 2 years to research the various materials that would reflect the quality and construction of old Spanish Colonial St. Augustine.  This home sits majestically on the Intercoastal overlooking the historic bayfront area of historic downtown St. Augustine.

Davis shores is on the barrier lands of Anastasia Island.  It is located on the east side of the Bridge of Lions between Matanzas River and Salt Run. Developer, D.P. Davis was the brainchild behind this neighborhood early in the 1900’s.  Fill was actually used to increase parts of the land to a higher than sea level.  One of the avenues lining the Intercoastal Waterway is St. Augustine Boulevard where the luxury home, The St. George sits.

On the 50 yard line of historic yard line is The St. George, currently a vacation home for sale.  It has everything necessary for a leisure lifestyle such as fenced in compound, detached guest suite, pool and spa over looking the views of the Bridge of Lions, the signature architecture of the nation’s oldest city, and the historic fort of Castillo de San Marcos.

An Marshall, REALTOR

Prudential Network Realty

Extremely Full Service

www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
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email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

“The St. George” is a luxury home for sale on the Intercoastal Waterway.   It is a masterful beauty that  reflects the integrity, authenticity, and timelessness of historic Spanish Colonial St. Augustine.  

It is a resort-like compound with deepwater dock, boat slips, pool, spa, summer kitchen and private guest suite.  It is a superb vacation home in St. Augustine where everyday feels special.  The property, built in 2008,  includes 4 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, 3,450 Sq. Ft. in the main house, and 2-car garage. 

The stupendous view entails  the bridge of Lions, historic downtown bayfront, and the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument – everything that embodies the culture, spirit, and essence of the nation’s oldest city – St. Augustine.

An Marshall, REALTOR

Prudential Network Realty

Extremely Full Service

www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
view my blog

email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

www.26NStAugustineBlvd.com

he Neighborhoods of St. Augustine 6:6 -  World Golf Village

World Golf Village was born  from a vision to create a community that reflected the golfing lifestyle so prevalent in northeast Florida.  There are about 20 neighborhoods differentiated with various lifestyles preferences yet consistent in architecture and continuous  backdrop of  preservation lands.  There are a  multiple  of choices from condos (The Legends – lo- mid $100,000’s), to starter  homes (The Meadows -upper  $100.000’s), to million dollar homes, and  active adult community (the Cascades).

The neighborhoods of World Golf Village have consistent architectural styling and integrated sidewalk system.  The some 6300 acres provides a sense of openness and appreciation for nature and the wildlife habitat.  In fact, World Golf Village is toted as being one of northeast Florida’s ”most environmentally friendly developments”.

The homes of World Golf Village border two spectacular golf courses -  King & Bear and the Slammer & Squire.  Even the homes reflect the spacious feelings indicative of the community with high ceilings, generous floor plans, and golf course and lake views. The  community  is rich with parks, recreation, retail shops, golf, and world-class amenities.  It is surrounded by woodland preserves and a magnificent setting.

Many of the lakes have been stocked for fishing.  There are numerous  social and recreational activities indicative of an award-winning community.  Although slow to start, the real estate in World Golf Village is holding its own.  Now more than a decade old, the neighborhoods of World Golf village are maturing to live up to its reputation as an award-winning community.

An Marshall, REALTOR

Prudential Network Realty

Extremely Full Service

www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
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email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

Flagler Estates is a subdivision southwest of St. Augustine within a 35-40  minute drive.  It is a ten thousand acre  parcel of land comprised of lots that are 1.25 acres and has no restrictions in terms of size of building or construction type.  Currently about 75-80% of the homes are mobile.  The area was originally owned by single owner and sold off intended to be farm land in the late 1960’s.  This venture was unsuccessful and sold again to be subdivided into the lots of current times. At the time of this writing there are 51 homes for sale in Flagler Estates ranging from $49,000 t0 $200,000.

The area is partially located in St. Johns’s county and the other portion in Flagler County.  It is characterized by affordable pricing and zoning that allows for horses and mobile homes with no deed restrictions.  Many of the roads are not yet paved.  At one point the area was growing very fast, but currently there are many lots still vacant and many lots  for sale.  Some of the lots contain wetlands or are completely wetlands.    These are very costly to build upon, if permits can be obtained.

 
The main entrance is off SR 13.  Flagler Estates is neatly situated between Palatka, St. Augustine and Palm Coast.  

An Marshall, REALTOR

Prudential Network Realty

Extremely Full Service

www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
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email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

www.flaglerestates.com

Vilano Beach lies just north of the historic downtown area of St. Augustine.  Originally a recreation destination, the development of homes in Vilano Beach area came about in the latter half of the 20th century.  Homes in this area make great vacation home and good rental properties.   Many of them are in walking distance to the Atlantic Ocean or the intercoastal or both.

Some homes cluster around the Vilano Beach Town Center area.  Home on the east side  of Coastal Highway or A1A line  are ocean homes whereas  homes on the west side are on the Tolomato River, or Intercoastal Waterway. The beach homes for sale range in price from the low $300,000  to well more than  $1 million with proximity to water and boating docks deciding factors. There are a few gated communities as well as several condo associations.

Villages of Vilano is a mixed community of condos and single family homes  behind 24-hr manned gates.  It is the only  community in thi s area that has both intercoastal and Atlantic Ocean access.  Mariner’s Watch is a small condo complex built in the mid 1970’s and has both ocean and intercoastal views.

Several Parks such Surfside Park and North Shore Park are in the area.  The new Vilano Beach Town Center is currently being designed as  a destination point for visitors under the direction of the  North Shores Improvement Assoc instructed  to revitalize the area.


The Vilano Bridge is the main access to this peninsula.   All  shopping is a short hike away on the west side of the Vilano Bridge or a longer distance of 20-30 miles north  in Ponte Vedra.   Some beaches have been riveted with beach erosion problems.  The beach itself is  known for its shells and high surf popular with surfers.    The area is a quieter neighborhood than the beach homes on Anastasia Island.  You can park your RV or boat in your yard in these parts.  Fising, swimming, and sunset watching, are popular activities.

An Marshall, REALTOR

Prudential Network Realty

Extremely Full Service

www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
view my blog

email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

http://www.vilanobeachfl.com/

Beyond the courtyard gates of  “The St. George”,  you will encounter a fully self-contained  world emulating  the almost 500 year- old  look and feel of the nation’s  oldest city, St. Augustine The location,  referred to as the 50-yard line of historic St. Augustine, is one of only nine waterfront homes that have the encompassing views of the Bridge of Lions, historic Bayfront, and the Castillo de San Marco National Monument.    Along with the  builder/owner’s detailed construction choices, there may not be a more perfect Intercoastal home that captures the essence of what makes St. Augustine such a magical place.

World-class views, separate guest house, deep water access, 2 boat slips, concrete dock, pool, spa and outdoor kitchen create the illusion of a never-ending vacation.   This resort living experience is further enhanced by majestic architecture and  selected  building  materials to reflect Old World European influences.

The main house  built in 2008, has 3,450 Sq. Ft. of high ceilings supported by re-created cedar wood beams and massive amounts of molding with detailed faux painting giving an antique look.  Huge 10’ walnut doors are crafted from trees grown in the Andes and the Jerusalem marble imported from Israel provide the flooring for the entire 1st level.  Reclaimed brick pavers line the entry courtyard providing access to main house, 2-car garage, or separate guest suite.   Rounded down spouts, cedar shingle roof, and the “Bridge of Lions fountain” are further examples of the sustained Spanish Colonial period look. 

The magnificent  kitchen  boasts pull-out microwave drawer, custom  wood cabinetry, granite countertops with decorative edging,  and expresso/ cappuchino /coffee maker.  The Thermadore appliance package includes   refrigerator , freezer , 6-burner  flat-top grill and double oven .  Other features include pull-out pot filler , flatscreen  television, refrigerator drawers, and recessed electronic small appliance storage. 

A boater’s paradise, the concrete  dock is 10’ wide and  has a 15x35 terminal platform and power lifts for two boats.  From this vantage point, views of the Intercoastal and Historic Downtown activities such as the Regatta, Night of Lights, and firework displays are thoroughly enjoyed.   This impeccable waterfront home for sale  has  integrity, authenticity, and timelessness.   It’s like owning a piece of history!

An Marshall, REALTOR

Prudential Network Realty

Extremely Full Service

www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
view my blog

email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

www.26NStAugustineBlvd.com

The expanse of intercoastal waterway is extensive in throughout St. Augustine.  The intercoastal  cuts right thru St. Augustine with the mainland flanked to  the west and the Anatasia Island or Vilano Beach areas to the east.  Because the waterway is so extensive, there are many neighborhoods to choose from.    Some features to consider is whether or not you have a boat and do you want to store it in a marina, your own dock, or be close to a boat launch.

Located on the West side of the Intercoastal and south of  312 are neighborhoods such as St. Augustine Shores and St. Augustine South.   St. Augustine Shores is an extensive deed restricted community
 with both single family  homes and condos.  There is a fantastic pier which creates a gathering place for people to enjoy sunsets and pole fishing .  St. Augustine Shores is an ecclectic  neighborhood  with homes built as early as the 1950’s and 1960’s.  It is characterized by larger lots and with no  homeowner association regulations, you can park your boat or RV  in your yard.  Two boat ramps are located in St. Augustine South providing easy access for the vast options for boating and fishing activities.   

Further north  one can find  streets sprinkled  in the historic downtown area or North City that have access to the Intercoastal.  North of the St. Augustine Airport, White Castle Estates meanders along Stokes Landing Rd.  area  featuring  manufactured homes mixed with site built homes  and large lots some with  views of the marsh and beyond  to Pine Island.  Palencia is a multi-faceted huge planned community with  residences ranging from townhomes  to marsh side mansions.

On the east side of the intercoastal located just north of the 206 Bridge is Treasure Beach on Anastasia Island.  This  is a rustic neighborhood with canal access to the ICW and shared walkways to the Atlantic Ocean.  Initially this subdivision was largely manufactured homes but more recently site built homes have been added.

Marsh Creek is  the only gated golf course community in St. John’s County.  Its western border flanks the  intercoastal.  Although, there are many homes in this neighborhood with views of the marsh and intercoastal water,  there are only a very few that have privately-owned docks and no ability to add one.

Pelican Reef, a small gated community of about 100 homes,  lies just north of 312.  Opportunities allow for some homes with private docks  and others may opt for in-community boat slip rental.  Davis Shores  is an older community close to the Bridge of Lions.   Homes for sale lining  Dolphin Drive, St. Augustine Blvd, Inlet Drive, S. Mantanzas Bvld. And Coquina Ave would provide a lifestyle that includes all  the Intercoastal Waterway has to offer.

Camachee Harbor, just north of the city and accessed from the Vilano Bridge has boat slip priority at the Camachee Cove Marina.  Homes in this neighborhood include stately condos and million dollar homes bordering  the waterway.  Porpoise Point,on the southern most tip of Vilano Beach, is coveted by the fact that it has immediate access to the Atlantic ocean, St. Augustine Inlet and the Intercoastal.  Pacetti North Beach area, north of the Vilano Bridge on Coastal Highway (A1A North)  is rustic without restrictions and has close proximity to Ponte Vedra Beach.

Searching for homes for sale in St. Augustine neighborhoods such as St. Augustine South, St. Augustine Shores, Marsh Creek, Camachee Harbor or any  other  neighborhood provides many options for the care-free outdoor lifestyle of beach and water activities that Florida is famous for.

An Marshall, REALTOR

Prudential Network Realty

Extremely Full Service

www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
view my blog

email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

http://www.staugustineoutdoors.com/fishing_links.htm

http://www.co.st-johns.fl.us/BCC/Parks_1_Recreation/BoatRamp.aspx

St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States.  Much of the downtown area has either been preserved, restored, or refinished to emulate the centuries and cultural influences of days gone by.
The historic downtown area of St. Augustine is a great neighborhood to live in with an old town feel.  If you like being able to walk to great restaurants, establishments for music and entertainment, shopping,  art  galleries and local schools, finding a historic downtown home is for you. 

Homes were frequently built in the last part of the 1800’s or early 1900’s.  The architecture  often reflects the period of days gone by.  Old City and Old Town represent a Spanish Colonial style with Spanish tile roof, exterior walls with inlaid tile mosaics,  multiple balconies, and coquina stone walls or foundations.  Driving is often on very narrow streets or one-way cobblestone streets.  Parking is primarily on the street, in a driveway or detached garage. 

The Lincolnville neighborhood in St. Augustine is a historic district   founded in 1866 by former slaves.  Washington St. became the center for black-owned businesses in the early part of the 20th century.  This area of about 45 blocks has the highest density of buildings of the Victoria era including those of the gothic revival  genre.  Generally the lots are small. 

The Flagler Model Land Co. area is just north of King Street with beautiful homes on paved oak-lined streets along  with mature palm, fruit and flowering trees.  Detached in-law suites and floral gardens are familiar.  Some of these homes have RG1 zoning allowing for varied use.  Typical amenities  include stained glass inserts, wood floors, and quaint porches and balconies.

Uptown, Magnolia and Nemar Terrace is a little farther north than the hubbub of the immediate downtown area.  Fireplaces, stucco walls, and wood beams are often seen in the homes that are cottage style.  This district  bustles with antique stores and still just blocks from the intercoastal waterway.

The sights, the smell, and the feel of St. Augustine provides unique stimuli with old trolleys and horse drawn carriages clip-clopping down city streets.  People travel to their work place dressed in period costume as pirates, Spanish soldiers, and colonial women. The youthful Flagler college students add a contemporary element.  The trolley bell rings regularly and the horn blows as the Bridge of Lions gates open to let a tall ship pass by.  The city is committed to preserving  its roots since 1565 and managing the many state-owned historic properties. Even newer homes have been built to be in keeping with the area. 


Prices in the downtown area depend largely upon the condition and the updating of the home.
Homes that have had  little updating done throughout the year can be “projects” and may be more difficult to obtain financing and insurance.   Codes have to be met that meet safety standards for   plumbing, electrical, central heat and air systems and the roof.   For those who want more shared common spaces and less property maintenance,  there are a few condominium projects.

An Marshall, REALTOR
Prudential Network Realty
Extremely Full Service
www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
view my blog
email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com
www.staugustinegovernment.com

Only a couple of blocks from the beach is a sprawling home covering two lots on the corner of Oak Rd. and Willow Drive in the Woodland subdivision.  The original house built in 1967 included  3 bedrooms and 2 baths.  In the mid 90’s a 24’x13’ family room, step-down dining area, and new master suite and bath were added.  Now the  older and new sections of the home are conveniently divided to  provide privacy for in-laws, guests, or children/grandchildren. 

Even if you love the beach, tho, the real charm of this home is realized in the yard.  The property itself is a substantial 173x104 but the upkeep is minimalized because the pool, home, and 2-car garage utilize a large portion of it. The back yard is fenced in containing pets or kids.  Surprising stone or brick patios are sprinkled here and there and a coy fish pond and fountain create a perfect spot for a reflection.  Even the  informal landscaping has the appearance of easy upkeep and sporadic maintenance.  Come and sit a spell – you’ll be mesmerized.

 

An Marshall, REALTOR
Prudential Network Realty
Extremely Full Service
www.Amarshall.prudentialnetworkrealty.com
view my blog
email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com

www.stjohns.k12.fl.us

Tim’s Wine Market provides local wine expertise in St. Augustine Beach.  Because of their fine appreciation for wine, proprietors Kathyrn Vaughn and Michael Salley opened the 1st of the Tim’s Wines franchises  in 2007.  Their knowledge of wine continues to expand and they are working towards  a designation of Certified Specialist of Wine.  Service, selection, and value is the mission of the company.

They enjoy a casual lifestyle as reflected in the warm welcome customers receive walking through the front door.  In fact, store mascot, Sabrina, a friendly great dane, will show you the way.  Regular wine tastings occur at the casual bar where the wine “du jour” is liberally poured for introductory purposes. This sampling helps customers make good choices from the selection of more than 500 bottles.  Wine can even be consumed by the glass on bistro-style table outdoors. 

The store provides education for customers including small gatherings to scrutinize subtle difference of special wines and discussion of the wineries.  In fact the web site’s education tidbit includes “The first European settlers to make wine in the United States made it near Jacksonville, Florida in 1562 from Scuppernog grapes.”

 There was never any doubt that they would open in fabulous St. Augustine.   Specifically, the location of their store is the SeaGrove Town Center on A1A at A Street.  This is a quaint neighborhood with single family residences, condos,  and a commercial district that includes local Library, Post Office, bank, Tropical Smoothie, gift store, and other commercial buildings. 

You can contact Kathryn and Michael at (904) 461-0060 or visit during store hours: Tuesday – Friday 10:00-7:00 and Saturdays 10:00-5:00

An Marshall, REALTOR
Prudential Network Realty
Extremely Full Service
www.AnMarshallOnTheMove.com
view my blog
email:an.marshall@prudentialnetworkrealty.com
 http://timswine.com/