Realty Round Up: Jacksonville, Florida

We are heading to Jacksonville, Florida for a wedding this weekend (Congrats to Elizabeth and Chris) so I thought it would be fun to have Florida's state capital be this week's Realty Round Up pick. Jacksonville is the most populous city in Florida. Located in the northeast region of the state, it is situated on the St. John's River and is home to two U.S. Navy bases and the Port of Jacksonville, Florida's third largest seaport.

I selected the Riverside Avondale neighborhood to focus on as it was ranked one of America's greatest neighborhoods by the American Planning Association. It is on the west bank of St. John's River and it known as a "vintage neighborhood with a diverse mix of people, architecture, and attractions" (APA). One of the biggest things the area prides itself on, is its amazing collection of historically significant homes including the largest number of Prairie Style houses outside of the midwest. Other local highlights include lots of pocket parks on the water, locally owned shops and restaurants and a convenient location to downtown. 

House #1: $0 - $250,000

​images and information via Zillow

I love the curb appeal of this house. The current homeowners seemed to have taken the time to invest in their landscaping which adds so much to the character of the home. Other features include: a short distance to the water, a gas fireplace and lots of original charm and detailing.

House #2: $250,000 - $500,000

​images and information via Zillow

The thing that drew me most to this home is the studio/apartment space in the back. It also has been beautifully maintained, is in a central location and seems to have a nice floor plan. 

House #3: $500,000 - $750,000

​images and information via Zillow

This home is a bit colorful for my taste but nothing a few cans of paint couldn't fix. I like all the crown molding and built in cabinetry. I also love the outdoor space especially the pool since in Florida I am sure you would want one. 

House #4: $750,000 - $1,000,000

​images and information via Zillow

It pretty much goes without saying that this property's biggest selling point is its location. I couldn't even imagine how amazing it would be to have that as your view everyday. On top of it, the house has so much character. I also especially like the big sunroom on the front of the house. 

Happy Weekend! 

Realty Round Up: North Lake Tahoe, California

I recently saw some amazing images of Lake Tahoe and was reminded of how much I want to visit. It seems as though there really isn't anything not to like - a huge beautiful lake in the summer and great skiing in the winter. ​Upon doing some further research, I learned that Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second deepest lake in the United States (1,645 feet). It is located along the border of California and Nevada just west of Carson City. The official Lake Tahoe visitor bureau breaks the area into North Lake Tahoe and Tahoe South. For no particular reason, I chose to look at North Lake Tahoe focusing on the areas of Incline Village, Crystal Bay and Kings Beach.

Incline Village (according to the Visitor Bureau) is known for its hilly terrain, private mountain homes and relaxing beaches. It is also where the Hyatt Regency is located and where I would love to stay for a weekend (or longer). Crystal Bay bridges the state line and is named for the pristine bay it overlooks. One of its main draws is the night life with four casinos and lots of live entertainment. Lastly, Kings Beach is known as the north shore's banana belt as it is in the sun paths all day long. It also sounds a little more laid back and local. ​

House #1: $0 - $250,000

​information and images via Zillow

Kings Beach: The smallest space I have featured so far this tiny cabin in the woods would be a great romantic weekend spot.

House #2: $250,000 - $500,000

​information and images via Zillow

Crystal Bay: This house is so charming and it has a really nice backyard space. I especially like the kitchen however the best part of this property is definitely its proximity to the beach. ​

House #3: 500,000 - $750,000

​information and images via Zillow

Incline Village: This house has a lot of character with great outdoor living space and the view!

House #4: $750,000 - $1,000,000

​information and images via Zillow

Crystal Bay: This home maximizes its stunning location with most of the rooms having amazing views to the lake and surrounding mountains. ​My favorite element is the deck off the kitchen. 

​Have a good weekend!

Realty Round Up: Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL

This past weekend I was in Chicago visiting my sister and like most 20-30 year old professionals she lives on the north side of the city specifically the neighborhood of Lincoln Park.​ Lincoln Park is named for the large park that borders Lake Michigan and is adjacent to Lakeview, North Center, Logan Square, West Town and Near North. It is known for being home to DePaul University while also being one of the most expensive communities to live in. The streets are lined with beautiful historic homes many converted to multiple apartments and condos. I only had time for one meal in Lincoln Park this time around which was brunch at Toast (delicious!) but the "LP" as my sister calls it has many great restaurants to choose from. Some of her favorites are:

- Perennial Virant - I have eaten here and it is amazing! Plus its right on the park and has outdoor dining so that is a huge plus for me.
- Taco Joint - I wish we had one of these in St. Louis
- Boka - I get hungry just looking at their website
- Sweet Mandy B's - a super cute looking bakery

House #1: ​$0 - $250,000

​images and information via Zillow

This place seems like it is in a great location  - near a park, a popular shopping area and the L. And while being relatively small it seems to make a good use of space. ​

House #2: $250,000 - $500,000

​images and information via Zillow

I think this apartment is so charming. ​I like all the white especially because of how much natural light the place seems to get and the 18' ceilings! It also has a private balcony and a sizable private roof deck which would be great to enjoy during the summer months. 

House #3: ​$500,000 - $750,000

​images and information via Zillow

This unit is just a half block off the park and includes tons of vintage character. While the exact square footage is not provided it does appear to be rather comfortable in size and includes a great gourmet kitchen. ​

​images and information via Zillow

The biggest draw for me on this property is the great room. Double height spaces are hard come by and this one has lots of light and a nice flow into the kitchen area. I also really like that it has two private decks.