Outdoor Activities

Tampa Waterfront Properties- Tips for buying/owning a boat

May 23, 2014 by Lance Mohr

Hi my name is Lance Mohr and I am a real estate agent in Tampa and here is another video on buying waterfront homes in Tampa and to give you a tip on what you need to do. It really does not make any difference if you are looking for Tampa waterfront properties whether it is a home or whether it is a lot do your due diligence, don’t just rely on the real estate agent.

Getting reliable info

Let me give you an example. Let’s say you want to be on the water, whether it is on the golf or intercostal and you have a boat and maybe it is a 30-foot boat or even a 30-foot sail boat and you need a certain depth of water. Don’t just ask the listing agent to ask the seller what the depth is, call around and as always, I don’t mind calling for buyers. The problem is if I get wrong information, that wrong information is going to be passed along and I don’t really like the liability.

There are a couple of things that you could do as a potential home buyer if you are looking at buying waterfront properties. You are going to do a couple of things, one is call different marinas. Tell them where you are looking at buying and what the address is and they can help you out and tell you most of them know especially if they are a marina that is local they are going to know and if there are a couple of marinas call a couple of them and get some ideas. The best thing to do though is when you are in the neighborhood drive up and down the street and find someone who has a boat maybe similar to the size you are buying and get out and knock on their door.

The thing about people and I know people pretty well being in this business, people love to talk about themselves, they love to talk about their kids, and they love to talk about their home. If you have questions they are going to be more than willing to help you out. They probably may or may not have had those questions if they were looking at the waterfront property so check it out and do your due diligence because you don’t want to buy a home and then find out that the depth of the water to be is going to be wrong.

Get a hold of me

If you have any questions or concerns about any homes in Tampa, any waterfront properties, or anything don’t hesitate to give me a call now at 813-317-4009, I would love to answer your questions and help you out. More valuable information is free to the public on my website at Tampa2Enjoy, Please check out my Facebook and all my other videos on my Youtube channel or on my website video page. I wish you the best of luck. Take care.

New Opportunities Arriving for Tampa

March 18, 2013 by Lance Mohr

There is something to be said about having a brand company that matches the location where it is to be located. Tampa residents enjoy the opportunity to purchase waterfront property. Some of the interest evolves from the desire of residents and would-be purchasers for the superb fishing opportunities that abound in the area.

Westfield Brandon Mall anticipates the opening of an Outdoor World center featuring Bass Pro Shops in 2014. A good portion of the more than 14 million annual visitors to Tampa will plan to see this intriguing 140,000 square-foot sporting goods store. Slightly over $6 million in road reimbursements was recently approved by Hillsborough County commissioners to help the shop's development. This has become a typical move by many localities trying to bolster the economy in their area.

Some of the fish caught lately are snook, redfish and trout. The types change by season, but there is always the desire to make it as competitive as possible. The most flexible rod and lure of the day are often the difference between going home with a seafood dinner ready to cook and stopping by the pizza place for a couple of large pizzas. Visitors enjoy knowing they can get the latest in fishing gear from a reputable store in the Tampa area.

Features found at other locations include gigantic aquariums. The family will enjoy going to see Large Mouth Bass and fresh water eels swimming in a 30,000 gallon area. Usually one or two days a week are designated as the time when visitors can observe the fish feeding extravaganza. Workshops in fly tying and casting, a restaurant and indoor waterfalls add to the theme and fun for the entire family.

This type of store is a learning experience as well as an opportunity for the community to grow and increase tourism. It is similar to having the majority of nature contained in an orderly fashion within one giant building.

The Double-Yankee Side of Tampa

March 14, 2013 by Lance Mohr

Spring is just around the corner, encouraging people to tour the areas around Tampa that they have not seen or just have not visited lately. This area is known for hosting an exceptional variety of sports. However, visitors sometimes fail to include one of the best opportunities in their travel plans. That is because they are unaware of the piece of Tampa real estate that is George M. Steinbrenner Field. It is here that the New York Yankees Spring Training games that have taken place each spring since the Field opened in 1996.

The NY Yankees start off the 2013 spring schedule against Toronto on February 24. Other games in February and March include Baltimore, Philadelphia, Atlanta and Detroit. Approximately half of the attendees at each spring training game live in the Tampa area. The game between the Yankees and the Dominican Republic WBC Team On March 6 should draw an exceptional crowd of fans for both teams.

The Single-A affiliate Tampa Yankees, founded in 1994, claim the stadium as its full-time home. They have won five league championships, with the most recent one in 2010. They demonstrate the best features of a professional team. Taking the family to a baseball is a great way to spend a day and enjoy Tampa's terrific summer weather.

A smaller replica of Yankee stadium, Steinbrenner Field seats over 11,000 fans. It hosts feature events such as concerts by top-rate performers like the Moody Blues, Chicago and Sting. There are nice hotels within walking distance of the stadium. Rather than fighting the traffic after the game, some people make the event a mini-vacation by booking a room instead of heading home after a game or musical performance.

Treat guests to a tour of some of the elegant Tampa waterfront houses and neighborhoods before heading out to Steinbrenner Field for the game. They will enjoy the opportunity to see why so many residents enjoy the exciting, enthusiastic ambience in this part of Florida.

Anglers Love Pinellas County

November 5, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Florida is known for its incredible range of golf courses, and although Tampa Bay has many wonderful courses, there are other outdoor sports to enjoy. Deep sea, salt water and freshwater fishing are all favorite activities for the angler. Pinellas County has its share of great fishing areas, including Lake Tarpon.

A Fish Management Area of 2,534 acres, Lake Tarpon is close to Tarpon Springs. Known best for its largemouth bass, the lake is one of Florida's Top 10 bass lakes. The bulrush, cattails and wild grasses that grow along the shoreline offer an ideal home for the bass and provide an excellent chance to limit out during a fishing trip. The fish are regularly sampled by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) biologists.

Open from sunrise to sunset, the parks feature fishing piers for those who choose to fish from the land. During the summer, the bass chase the shad in open water. Those bringing fishing boats have access to public boat ramps off the East Lake Road, as well as US Rte 19.

Fishing reports are available online and provide information about lures and other types of action that are resulting in a catch, as well as which types of fish are active. Spinners in shad coloration and shimmery shiny lures attract the largemouth bass. Ranging from 1 to 4 pounds, they are known for putting up a good fight and challenging any angler's skill.

Other types of catches include bluegill and redear sunfish, which tapers off towards wintertime. If you have been trying to tempt fishing friends to visit since you bought one of the condos in South Tampa, reel them in with this angling information.

Day Vacations In and Around Tarpon Springs

November 4, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Even though taking the boat out for the day is fun, there is a lot to do around the greater Tampa Bay area besides water. There are times when a nice vacation is perfect for the family. Selecting a particular spot is a challenge, because there are so many incredible places nearby to visit.

Tarpon Springs is a great choice to spend the day. An enjoyable 40 minute drive from Tampa, there are parks, picnic areas and excellent varieties of food for those who choose to eat out. Enjoy a favorite activity, such as a challenging game at golf at one of the resorts. If you have been considering a deep-sea fishing trip, book a spot on one of the charters that depart from that area. Tarpon Lake offers fresh water activities, including bass fishing.

Craig Park is another spot to visit. You will find a boat ramp if you brought your fishing boat along. There are also nice picnic areas and a playground for the kids. Challenge your friends and family to a tennis match on one of the courts.

Kayaking is also a popular activity at this park. It is common to see manatees while out in the water. Enjoy a walk on the promenade while keeping an eye out for the dolphins which enjoy frisking along the water. Tarpon Springs truly has something for everyone to enjoy and after a long day of play, home is not far away.

Those who enjoy walking the beach and looking for seashells and sea-tossed rocks can travel just a bit further to enjoy the adventure of searching through the sand at Venice Municipal Beach. It is reputed to be one of the best areas for finding fossilized shark's teeth, as well as a nice spot for strolling the beach. Much of the park is in its natural form, allowing native wildlife such as turtles and pelicans to roam free in a protected environment.

If you have any questions or are looking to purchase a waterfront real estate in Tampa, Fl please visit www.tampa2enjoy.com.

Creating a Garden at Your New Home

October 26, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Much of Florida is a natural wonderland, composed of wetlands, ponds and conservation areas. Add the plants that thrive in this humid, sub-tropical climate, such as palm trees, and you will see why so many developers include gardens and preserves in their developments. There are a number of brilliant flowers that grow in the yards around the homes in Tampa Fla, thanks to the USDA hardiness zone 10 rating.

One of the native flowers of Florida is the Black-Eyed Susan, a common sight in Hillsborough County gardens. Hummingbird and butterfly bushes draw those beautiful creatures near, adding even more color to their displays. It is important to select plants that thrive in the sun, as this is the state that has more than its fair share of sunshine.

Intense colors such as deep pink add glamour to flower gardens and walkways. Two popular plants are the Madagascar periwinkle and Cosmos. Besides pink, they both produce other colors including white and purple.

The best place to find native Florida plants is at local nurseries and some online suppliers. If you are shopping at large shopping centers with a nursery attached, ask the clerk about Florida friendly plants. They are less expensive than a native plant and in the event it does not survive, it is easier to replace. The important features are the ability to withstand pests and disease. Drought tolerant flowers and shrubs also require less water, a matter of importance to those in areas with watering restrictions.

Those who have been looking in the area of Live Oak Preserve can vouch for the imagination and creativity of the various builders in the Tampa area. From apartment buildings and homes to business centers and malls, landscaping and design are remarkable. Hillsborough County continues to offer the very best in the form of schools, dining and shopping. Shops at Wiregrass Ranch Mall are gearing up for Black Friday and the heavy holiday shopping that continues through the New Year.

Always remember that many central areas, such as business complexes and hospitals, have a regular landscaper that replants flowers, trees and shrubs according to the weather or any damage. While you might admire the beautiful arrangement of multi-colored purple and yellow pansies, an unexpected frost freezes and consequently destroys them. The next time you pass by the garden spot, you might encounter hibiscus or camellias.

If you enjoy doing your own gardening, you may not have the luxury of replacing flowers every month or so. Make a note of what neighbors in the Live Oak homes around you have established in permanent garden spots and follow suit, using the colors you prefer. The harmonious blend will highlight the features of the exterior of your home and create a pleasant view to those passing by or arriving for a visit.

Outdoor Tampa, Florida-Off the Beaten Path–On the Wild Side

October 26, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Tampa, Florida offers some of the most fun that you'll have anywhere. Whether you're visiting Tampa, or are planning a move to Tampa, the outdoor entertainment is something that can't be missed.

Tampa, Florida is well known for the night life and the theater, as well as the many different city-style amenities that you can find in the area. What many people don't experience is Tampa off the beaten path. This is where Tampa area excels. Things to do off the beaten path in Tampa will literally amaze and delight you. From wildlife parks to whitewater canoing you're going to love what Tampa has to offer you. Exploring just a few of the things you can find off the beaten path in Tampa, local residents offer these:

Hillsborough River State Park

Just slightly Northeast of Tampa, Florida, near the town of Thonotoassa, you'll find an area that was formerly home to Fort Foster during what was known as the Seminole war. If you're a canoe fan or love whitewater rafting, this is an area that you simply can't miss.

The park in Hillsborough has some class II river rapids as well as more than seven miles of nature trails available for you to hike. Hillsborough State Park is an amazing side of Tampa, Florida that many people, even residents, don't take the time to see. It shows you a wilder side of the Tampa urban area, offering you real outdoor entertainment of a wilder variety, but within hailing distance of downtown Tampa.

You'll get some great views of the area, including turtles, alligators, and beautiful oak trees that are literally dripping with Spanish moss. Take the time to go out to Hillsborough River and check out a wilder view of Tampa. To get to Hillsborough State Park, use the I-4 east to get to 310 North. You can rent a canoe, and there are also places to swim as well as to camp if you want to spend more than a day in the park.

HoneyMoon Island

Just west of Dunedin, you'll find a little gem known as Honeymoon Island State Park. Unspoiled white sand beaches and gorgeous clear waters are waiting for you at Honeymoon Island. Swimming and sunning, as well as hiking and beachcombing for sand dollars and conch shells are all activities that you can accomplish here. Laze in the sunshine while watching the birds and wildlife around you. If you are looking for a day in the sun to relax and unwind, Honeymoon Island has all that and more. From Tampa, take the US 60 to Clearwater and then US 19 to Dunedin.
These are just two examples of finding a little wilderness in the suburban areas of Tampa, Florida. For the Tampa resident, these areas are simply gold particularly in light of the amazing night life and amenities that Tampa has to offer you. Off the beaten path in Tampa is well worth exploring.

Celebrate Beauty at Bok Tower Gardens

October 25, 2012 by Lance Mohr

A botanical garden and bird sanctuary, the beauty of Bok Tower Gardens makes this Lake Wales attraction a definite bucket list item. It is easy to find, located almost the same distance from Orlando and Tampa. Rolling hills and acres of citrus trees add to the beauty and delightful fragrance during blossom time.

The gardens are open year-round from 8 in the morning until 6 in the evening. The Tower & Garden Gift Shop, Visitor Center and Blue Palmetto Cafe are open from 9 AM until 5 PM. Adults and children are welcome to explore this lovely part of Florida history and can purchase tickets at the entrance gate.

Fifty acres of Olmsted gardens are located around Pinewood Estate. It is an impressive mansion that is as beautiful inside as it is out. The Singing Tower, soaring over 200 feet, is a National Historic Landmark. A gift from Dutch immigrant Edward Bok, it holds one of the finest carillons in the world. The 60 bells ring during daily concerts, as well as marking the passage of each half-hour.

There is an extra fee for touring Pinewood Estates and adults may want to return for this activity without the children, who may be tired or disinterested by the time the tour is scheduled. It is open for a self-guided tour from noon until 4 PM Monday through Saturday. On Sunday the hours change to 1 PM until 4 PM. Tickets are available at the entrance gate, visitor center or the Pinewood Estate front door, where cash and checks are accepted.

Step back 8 decades and envision the “silver spoon” lifestyle of 20th century industrialist C. Austin Buck. It makes some of those luxury homes in Tampa pale by comparison. The grounds and gardens cover 8 acres, while the mansion, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has twenty rooms. It is an incredible example of Mediterranean-style architecture in Florida. Docents are available throughout the tour to answer questions and explain certain features. Built in the 1930s, a portion of the mansion does not have stroller and wheelchair access. Those unable to tour the mansion will still enjoy hearing the ringing of the carillons.

If you have any questions or are looking to purchase any of the homes in Tampa, Fl, please visit www.tampa2enjoy.com.

Venice is Closer to Tampa Than You Think

October 20, 2012 by Lance Mohr

One of the biggest treats of living in Tampa is the ability to go to Venice. No, not the one across the sea, but the city of Venice, about 80 miles or so from Tampa. The entire family can enjoy the beach, including Rover.

Dog Friendly Beach of Brohard Paw Park
Chihuahuas and Golden Retrievers will woof thanks for giving them the opportunity to visit the dog park at Venice and the Brohard Paw Park Beach. It is an entertaining area that features doggie drinking fountains and showers (featuring a hose), leash posts and fire hydrants. This is Sarasota County's only beach where dogs can roam free and once you and Rover touch the sand, it is leashes off time for play.

You will find that most dogs and their two-legged families know how to behave in this environment. Other dogs may join in a game of catch. Take a camera for memorable shots of your furry family member. Carry plastic bottles of water for the rest of the family.

Family Friendly Nokomis Beach
Leave Rover at your new luxury home in Tampa Palms while the family visits Nokomis Beach, a public beach on Casey Key. The water from the gulf is very clear. Other perks are picnic areas, restrooms and public parking. Bring a couple of buckets to hold treasures from shelling, including sharks teeth. The brilliant white sand makes beachcombing a breeze. Fishing, diving, boating and swimming (plus lifeguards) are other popular activities at the oldest public beach in Sarasota County.

The Longest Beach in Sarasota County
A secluded windswept area, Caspersen Beach has been left in its natural state for the most part. The longest beach in the county, it is also a great spot for finding fossilized sharks teeth and seashells. A nature trail takes between 20 to 30 minutes to walk, providing the chance to view the mangroves, marshes and flats. Although there is no lifeguard, swimming is allowed. There is a launch area for kayaks and canoes. Fish from the piers or just relax and enjoy the day, along with lunch or dinner in the picnic area.

Lance Mohr is a Realtor in Tampa, Florida. Please visit his site at www.tampa2enjoy.com.

Eventful Living in Tampa, Florida

October 16, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Perhaps you have heard someone mention that homes in Western Florida are quite competitive in price and very affordable. That does not mean that prospective buyers are settling for less. Homebuilders are not just qualified to make good buildings, they are also recognized for their professional expertise.

You will find David Weekley homes at FishHawk Ranch that feature additions such as intriguing front porches and garages with alley access. Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath two-story new houses in Tampa are built be recognized builders such as D R Horton, branded as America's Builder.

With the number of interesting and exciting activities in the Greater Tampa Bay Area, people often forget there are amazing adventures that start right at home. Businesses, locals and visitors can make their short or long vacation plan even better with events like a Harley Davidson tour around Tampa or dirt bike tours in the area. If water sports are more to your liking, WaveRunner tours in the Gulf are popular ways to spend some free time. You can get all this and more at Tampa's Adventure Family Motorsports-II LLC on Linebaugh Avenue in Tampa.

Do you love mysteries and spooky stories? Grab someone that will stick with you to the bitter end and reserve your spot for a ghost walk in one of Tampa's haunted areas. Sponsored by Ghost Tour.com, you can experience the hair raising feeling near the courthouse afterhours or shiver at the close encounter of certain sections of graveyards around Tampa. Hear the legends of unfortunate victims and the reasons for their restless walks.

It is not just children that enjoy a trip to Lowry Park Zoo, although birthday and graduation parties are very popular among kids of all ages. If having a memorable wedding without spending enough money to buy a luxury home in Tampa is your goal, consider the pizzazz that will be remembered forever with a ceremony involving some of the stars at Lowry. Choose an indoor or outdoor setting and remind everyone to bring their cameras for this new step in your future made at one of Tampa's favorite facilities.

Even if you are currently a homeowner in this area, looking at the new houses in Tampa is an entertaining way to spend the day. Not only do you get to evaluate different styles of homebuilding, you also have the opportunity to get to know real estate agents and brokers from different agencies across the community. Perhaps today or at some point in the future, you can refer friends and relatives looking for a reputable realtor based on your expedition.

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