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Mass Transit and Real Estate in Central Florida: A Transformation

Brightline train traveling through Central Florida
~ Joseph DeSimone II ~ Leave a comment
Mass transit and real estate growth in Central Florida - Brightline train traveling through Central Florida
Central Florida Real Estate and Mass Transit

Central Florida is undergoing a massive transformation, thanks to significant mass transit projects like Brightline and SunRail. As these modern rail systems expand and connect the region, they’re not only improving transportation but also reshaping the real estate market. Whether you’re a homebuyer, investor, or simply curious about the future of property values, understanding the link between mass transit and real estate is crucial in today’s Central Florida market.

Mass Transit: A Game-Changer for Central Florida

Mass transit has always driven urban development, and Central Florida is no exception. The expansion of Brightline and SunRail is drawing more people to areas with easy access to transportation. These projects reduce commute times, ease traffic congestion, and provide affordable, eco-friendly alternatives to driving. Consequently, regions near these stations are becoming increasingly attractive to homebuyers and real estate investors.

Brightline connects Miami to West Palm Beach and extends to Orlando, opening new real estate opportunities. Similarly, SunRail’s expanding routes connect cities like DeBary, Winter Park, and Orlando, bringing more people into Central Florida’s real estate market.

The Impact on Property Values

Areas near mass transit stations often see a rise in property values. As convenience becomes more desirable, homes near transportation hubs become prime real estate. This trend, known as transit-oriented development (TOD), fosters communities where residents enjoy walkable access to trains and amenities.

AIndustry studies show that home prices near rail stations in Central Florida increased by up to 15% in the past five years. With new stations planned for SunRail and Brightline, this trend is expected to continue. As these services expand, expect areas such as Meadow Woods, Kissimmee, and parts of Orlando to see property appreciation and increased buyer interest. If you’re considering buying a home, check out our post on buying a home for more insights.

Real Estate Investment Opportunities

For investors, the expansion of mass transit in Central Florida presents unique opportunities. Homes and commercial properties near SunRail and Brightline stations hold excellent long-term value potential due to increased demand.

Renters are increasingly seeking properties with easy access to mass transit. Surveys reveal that millennials and Gen Z buyers prioritize proximity to public transportation. This trend will likely continue driving demand for properties near transit systems. Investors targeting residential rental properties should focus on areas within a 1-2 mile radius of these stations for the best returns You might also want to explore our tips on landscaping to increase your home value to attract renters.

Additionally, commercial real estate near these hubs is booming. With more foot traffic from commuters, small businesses such as cafes, retail shops, and coworking spaces are thriving, driving demand for both commercial and mixed-use real estate.

Mass transit and real estate growth in Central Florida - Quote from a study aimed to understand the millennial mindset around mobility: "My generation is strapped financially... we've acquired 50-100k in student loan debt - it forces us to start our adult life in debt... All this makes my generation need to be a bit more creative on how we get around town."
Millennials and Mass Transit

Future Developments: What to Watch For

Central Florida is not stopping at current expansions. The Sunshine Corridor, a proposed link between SunRail and Brightline, aims to connect major hubs like Orlando International Airport, the Orange County Convention Center, and Walt Disney World. These developments will drastically improve access across Central Florida, further boosting real estate demand in surrounding areas.

As this transportation network grows, now is the time to consider how mass transit developments will influence Central Florida real estate. Staying ahead of these trends enables buyers and investors to make informed decisions, ensuring they fully leverage the benefits of mass transit.

Key Areas to Watch for Real Estate Growth

If you’re looking to capitalize on the growing influence of mass transit in Central Florida, here are a few key areas to watch:

  • Kissimmee: With SunRail’s southern extension, Kissimmee is seeing increased demand for both residential and commercial properties.
  • Meadow Woods: Located near Orlando, this area is benefiting from SunRail expansions, offering suburban living with easy city access.
  • Downtown Orlando: As both Brightline and SunRail continue to serve the city, Downtown Orlando remains a hub of growth for businesses, investors, and homebuyers alike.

By focusing on these areas, buyers and investors can position themselves to take advantage of future price increases and development opportunities.

Mass transit projects like Brightline and SunRail are transforming the real estate landscape in Central Florida. As these transit systems expand, they drive property values up, create new opportunities for investors, and make communities more accessible. Whether you’re looking to buy a home, invest in rental properties, or understand how these trends affect your property, knowing the relationship between mass transit and real estate will be crucial in the coming years.

Central Florida is growing, and so are the opportunities for savvy real estate decisions. Keep an eye on areas near transit stations, and you’ll be well-positioned to benefit from these exciting developments.

At the JNJ Dream Team, we specialize in navigating these evolving real estate opportunities. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, our expertise can help you make informed decisions. Explore our latest listings and real estate services at www.jnjdreamteam.com, and let our team guide you through the vibrant Central Florida market.

Types of Pool Systems: Swimming 102

~ Jacqueline Johnson ~ Leave a comment

Here is our long-awaited follow-up to our previous article! Once you decide to install a pool, selecting the right type of pool system is crucial. The choice impacts both your swimming experience and maintenance efforts. Many homeowners opt for traditional chlorine systems, but other types of pool systems offer unique benefits. These include saltwater, mineral, and natural pool systems. Each type of pool system has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help you make an informed choice. Let’s explore each option in detail.

Chlorine Pool Systems

Chlorine pool systems are popular due to their affordability and effectiveness. They typically include a chlorinator, a pump, and a filter. Chlorine systems are effective in killing bacteria and algae, ensuring clean and safe swimming. Various options are available, from basic to more sophisticated systems that enhance energy efficiency and reduce electric bills.

However, chlorine systems have drawbacks. They can cause skin and eye irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Chlorine’s strong nature can also lead to the discoloration of swimsuits, pool toys, and floats. Some people find the chlorine odor unpleasant. Moreover, careful storage and handling of chlorine are necessary due to its hazardous nature.

types of pool systems: exotic pool with landscaping

Mineral Pool Systems

Mineral pool systems offer a natural alternative. They use minerals like magnesium, potassium, and sodium to maintain water quality. These pools rely on electrolysis to convert minerals into small amounts of chlorine. Although mineral pools still use chlorine, the concentration is much lower. This results in softer water, which is gentler on the skin and eyes. The minerals also create a pleasant, silky swimming experience.

Initial setup costs for mineral pool systems are generally higher than for traditional chlorine systems. Ongoing maintenance costs may be lower depending on your region. Availability of minerals might be an issue in some areas. There’s also a potential for mineral scaling and corrosion, which requires regular monitoring. Despite these challenges, many prefer mineral pools for their ability to inhibit algae growth, which reduces maintenance efforts.

Saltwater Pool Systems

Saltwater pool systems combine the benefits of traditional chlorine and mineral pools. They use a salt chlorine generator to produce chlorine from salt through electrolysis. A key component, the salt cell, ensures a consistent release of chlorine, keeping the water clean with minimal maintenance. Saltwater pools provide a softer, silkier swimming experience, which feels gentle on the skin and eyes. The automated chlorination process also reduces the need for manual chemical handling, making it more eco-friendly.

However, the initial setup cost for saltwater systems is higher than for other chlorinated pools. Increased electricity usage due to additional equipment might raise utility bills. The salt cell requires regular cleaning and maintenance and typically needs replacement every 3 to 7 years. Despite these costs, many find saltwater systems cost-effective in the long term due to the low price of salt.

types of pool systems: natural pool/pond with a small waterfall

Natural Pool Systems

Natural pool systems, or natural swimming pools (NSP), offer an eco-friendly and chemical-free option. They use biological processes to maintain water quality. A natural pool consists of two distinct areas: the swimming zone and the regeneration zone. The swimming zone is deep and free of plants, while the regeneration zone is surrounded by aquatic plants, gravel, and other natural filtration media. Water circulates between these zones, where beneficial bacteria, microorganisms, and plants break down organic matter and absorb contaminants.

Natural pools are known for their environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal. They provide a serene swimming experience in a chemical-free environment. However, building a natural pool can be significantly more expensive, often exceeding $100,000. They require more space and may be challenging to integrate into smaller properties. Temperature control is also a concern, as natural systems rely on the ecosystem rather than artificial methods. Although maintenance is chemical-free, regular upkeep is essential to keep the ecosystem functioning effectively.

types of pool systems: chlorine pool water

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Pool System

When selecting from the different types of pool systems, consider your specific needs, desires, and local conditions. Think about the availability of chemicals or materials, storage space, and how weather conditions might impact scaling and corrosion. Each type of pool system has its advantages and drawbacks. Understanding these will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, the best pool system for you will depend on your unique circumstances and priorities. Which type of pool system will you choose for your home?

Contact us with your questions!

Swimming Pools 101 – Types/Materials

~ Jacqueline Johnson ~ Leave a comment
Swimming Pools 101
Swimming Pools 101

If you read our last article, you know a swimming pool can add home value. Did you know, 92% of people with swimming pools installed reported a greater desire to stay at home once completed? In addition, roughly 80% of Florida homes feature a pool. With numbers like those, we thought it important to get some basic swimming pool information out there.

Types of Swimming Pools

While the most common pool is a concrete pool, there are actually a number of ways to build a swimming pool. Choosing between the style of pool, the material of the pool itself, and whether you want to use a salt or chlorine system, make a pool project a rather large endeavor.

Inground Pools

Fiberglass Pools: Built off site and delivered to your home, the surface has a gel coat, making the surface virtually non-porous. This means a fiberglass pool will not have the same water chemistry/ algae growth issues a concrete pool has. When compared to a concrete pool, you will spend roughly 75% less time and money on a fiberglass pool, according to River Pools and Spa. These pools are incredibly durable, lasting 30 years without resurfacing. They are also easy to maintain and are compatible with salt systems. Not to mention the speedy installation, taking just weeks to install versus the months a concrete pool will take to construct.

The biggest downside to fiberglass pools is they are not customizable in size and shape. So while getting a kidney shaped fiberglass pool or a 10 foot depth is not possible, the pool itself can feature customized colored finishes, ceramic tile, tanning ledges, water features, water lights, and more.

Concrete (or Gunite) Pools: The most common type of pool because concrete pools are customizable in size and shape. They also have the highest initial cost as well as the highest cost of ownership of all the types we will discuss. This actually makes concrete pools the most expensive and the most desired. Made with concrete pools and reinforced with steel, they are incredibly durable. However, the concrete is porous, and algae sticks/ imbeds easily in it. This translates to more chemical costs as well as more time simply cleaning the pool. Paying for a pool cleaning service is usually recommended for these types of pools. They will not only keep the pool clean but also make sure the water chemistry stays balanced. While you can use a salt system with a concrete pool, the salt could erode the concrete making maintenance more expensive.

Concrete pools have the highest cost of ownership of all pool types mentioned. They require an acid wash every 3 to 5 years and refinished every 10 to 15 years. This, in addition to chemical/service cost, and an estimate higher usage of electricity.

Vinyl Pools: The vinyl lined pool has the lowest initial cost for an inground pool. It is completely customizable in size and shape, which allows for your creativity to shine. The liner is non-porous, making it easy to keep clean and the water balanced. However, there are areas, behind lights for example, where the water does not circulate and algae can grow. The liners themselves need replaced every 5 to 9 years, making this type of pool more difficult to maintain than a fiberglass pool but less than a concrete one. Vinyl pools are compatible with salt systems however, make sure the side walls are plastic, not metal. The water/salt will erode when the liner leaks, which it will do.

Swimming Pools 101 - Types
Swimming Pools 101 – Types

Above Ground Pools

The most economical option for the pool owner is the above ground pool. Above ground pools, as they state, sit above ground in your yard. Sometimes they feature a deck or patio around the pool. The construction of these pools include aluminum, steel, or resin, and vinyl liners. Sometimes referenced as a DIY pool, it can be purchased at the local pool store and constructed at home. One of it greatest appeals is that it can be disassembled and taken if you move. While the pool can last between 10-20 years, the liner will need to be replaced every 5 years. Above ground pools can also be made into semi inground pools, partially burying the pool bridging the gap between the top of the pool and the ground. These pools are also compatible with salt systems, just remember to be diligent with leaks if your framework is metal.

Stay Tuned

Choosing the best option for you may take some research. As you get into deck and patio options, the project becomes even larger. However, there is no shortage of companies to interview to help determine the best option for your future plans. We always recommend calling at least 3 companies, no matter the service provided.

Stay tuned for our next article explaining specialty pools and the difference between a salt and chlorine system!

Swimming Pools 101 - Types
Swimming Pools 101 – Types

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