Tampa Entertainment

The Ins and Outs of Tampa, Florida Real Estate

April 23, 2014 by Lance Mohr

tampa-florida-real-estate The Tampa, Florida real estate scene is booming for obvious reasons: stunning beaches, ideal climate, vibrant arts, cultural venues and a booming job market. You can choose a number of Tampa, Florida real estate properties, like historic bungalows, luxury high-rises, waterfronts and gated communities.

Surfeit of comfortable localities

Neighborhoods in Tampa also come in different types, ranging from the upscale to the bustling colonies. Buyers can select from residences for sale in quiet and prestigious locations like Hyde Park and Davis Bay, or can choose to live in the rocking downtown area, parallel to the Hillsborough River.

Vibrant economy

The principal reason of Tampa being such a happy place is its vibrant economy. It is one of US's favorite locations for start-ups. Many companies have relocated their headquarters here, which provide a diverse range of employment opportunities. A number of Fortune 1000 companies have their offices in the metropolis, including WellCare, Raymond James Financial and OSI Restaurant Partners.

MacDill Air Force Base is a major employer with over 15,000 individuals working in the military, the Department of Defense civil service and a large number of military contractors in Tampa Bay.

Beautiful metropolis

Tampa has followed the national trend of revitalizing residential urban areas. The central part of the city appeals to those living in the outskirts by providing services that may be unavailable in the outlying areas of the city. Art venues are also close by. Central Tampa has a fast paced and fun environment. The Riverwalk along the Hillsborough River connects the city with the downtown. The riverside trail goes up to the Tampa Heights and the Channelside District, with day cruises, IMAX theater, gaming spaces and a number of bars, restaurants and shops.

The city is catered by the Tampa International Airport. It has consistently been awarded top ratings from countless national and international travelers.

If you want to live in a culturally and economically vibrant place, do consider investing in Tampa, Florida real estate. You can live in the throbbing downtown, or in the rapidly rising neighborhood of South Tampa. This place is specially loved by the young and the young at heart. A number of specialty restaurants and boutique shops appeal to the young professionals and avid weekend shoppers. The streets are oak shaded and picture perfect.

Ybor City is another famous area in Tampa, with an excellent music scene and scintillating nightlife. It was once home to Spanish, Cuban and Italian immigrants who contributed to the cultural richness of the area.

Reasons to settle

New home buyers are attracted by the city's economic strength, salubrious climate and comparatively economic cost of living. The city is a lot less expensive than other coastal urban conurbations which permit more income to be diverted into real estate and savings. A majority of the population is of high earners in the 25 to 50 age bracket. The city is culturally richer than other comparable cities as it has been attracting many outsiders to settle here. This makes Tampa ideal for business as well as leisure and retirement. Tampa2Enjoy Real Estate is here to help you find the perfect Tampa home for you and your family. Contact us today and we’ll help you find your home fast!

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.

Culture as Part of the Tampa Bay Performing Arts

October 5, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Located in Tampa, the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts hosts many popular events such as presentations of Broadway shows. The five theaters include Shimberg Playhouse, Jaeb Theater and TECO Theater. There is also a Rehearsal Hall. Upcoming Broadway shows scheduled to entertain Tampa Bay performing arts enthusiasts include Sister Act, December 11- 16, 2012, Flashdance, February 19 – 24, 2013 and War Horse, April 30 – May 5, 2013.

Originally known as the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, it opened in 1987. The name was changed in 2009 in honor of financier David A. Straz, Jr.'s generous donation, which enabled the center to add more offerings to its cultural presentations. Tampa benefits from having the second largest performing arts complex in the Southeastern US, drawing tourists and locals to the 335,000 square foot facility. In addition to Broadway presentations, concerts, performances and opera attract several hundred thousand patrons of the arts each year.

Opera Tampa, the resident opera company of the Center, is celebrating its 18th season. You may recall the scene from Pretty Woman where Vivian was caught up in the emotion of the opera, though understanding no words. That is not a problem for guest of the Tampa Bay performing arts. English translations for the season operas are displayed above the stages of the 1,042 seat elegant Ferguson Hall and the 2,610 seat Carol Morsani Hall. Declaring the 2013 Opera Tampa season as the Florida Opera Festival, the international celebration of grand opera will be designed to attract new viewers as well as encourage the return of familiar faces.

The arts thrive in the form of choirs, ballet, jazz ensembles and orchestras. Performances throughout the year are made possible by the impressive rooms set aside for practice, training and presentation. The Tampa Bay Performing Arts Academy provides an enthusiastic learning environment for students. In addition, students are encouraged to demonstrate what they have learned by performing on stage as much as possible, furthering their creative spirit. Comprehensive training in musical theatre, acting , voice and dance increases by levels of skill, offering wonderful opportunities to appear in a number of various presentations.

The availability of a center such as this gives an opportunity to all interested residents to follow their call to the stage, whether it is demonstrating ballet technique in Swan Lake, singing tenor in the opera or playing cello during the holiday concert. Thanks to Tampa Bay performing arts, culture is presented to the public in an entertaining format using the skills of many local youth and adults.

Living The Life In Tampa. Florida

September 26, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Selecting a home is a big decision involving more than square footage and landscaping. Potential homeowners also consider accessibility of schools, grocery stores and medical centers for themselves and their pets. Taxes and HOA dues are considered before signing on the dotted line. Homes in Tampa and surrounding areas provide quite a few variables, with some master-planned communities delivering almost all the basic needs.

Communities in New Tampa feature some of the most unique designs in Hillsborough County. Properties in Live Oak Preserve are built across 1300 acres of prime property. It is a private gated community that includes wetland preserves, ponds and wildlife. There are over a dozen villages, including Royal Oak Village and Briarwood Village. Besides single family home villages, there is a townhome village. Live Oak Preserve is across from Wharton High School.

Only minutes from I-75 and I-275, Shops at Wiregrass and downtown Tampa are reached quickly. Driving to the University of South Florida is convenient, as is a venture to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The university provides excellent formal learning, while Busch Gardens provides wonderful informal learning opportunities in Tampa. Although Busch Gardens is open year-round, some attractions may be closed for scheduled maintenance. Check their website before you leave to be sure your favorite events and rides are open.

Enjoy seeing wild animals in a natural habitat. Cheetahs, meerkats, lemurs, hyenas, peacocks, and elephants are part of the wildlife found at Busch Gardens. Rescue and shelter animals deliver a wonder show, Critter Castaways, at the Bird Gardens Theatre. Children and adults delight in this presentation, bringing about a greater respect for those creatures who share the world with humans.

Children and teachers also benefit from staff expertise. The Gardens offer a structured program called Zoo School. Wild places and wildlife are better understood by each class that participates. Teachers can participate in an expo to learn about the educational resources for students. An informal overnight session with other Florida teachers provides the opportunity to plan comprehensive classes and better student participation. Youth summer camps are also available and quickly filled with participants.

These informal classes point out that choosing a proper location and home is important to every living being on Earth. Just as some people choose to live in tall waterfront condos in Tampa or oak-covered areas in Wesley Chapel, so do the animals know what is best for their well-being and survival.

Fun and Food Around Tampa

September 25, 2012 by Lance Mohr

From the moment the lovely brick entry sign comes into view, with leaping fountains and lovely trees, people know that the homes in Seven Oaks are going to be special. A peek inside the clubhouse emphasizes the theatre and fitness center. A cafe, juice bar and coffee shop reminds residents and visitors that this is a special community with great conveniences. A walk along the nature trail or swimming at the aquatic center is a popular activity. Playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts offer even more things to do in this community. Sometimes the temptation to enjoy other parts of Florida lures people outside the area to explore.

There are hundreds of exciting places to visit around the Tampa area. You will most likely notice one well-known name: The Hard Rock Cafe. The official name in this area is the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa. The huge trademark guitar serves as a landmark for visitors and locals as they make their way to this intriguing gaming and entertainment center on North Orient Road. The beautiful decorations that adorn the outside of the buildings and provide a delightful holiday feeling in December also make an excellent backdrop for outdoor photos.

When guests come to visit, there is sure to be a meal at one of the restaurants that will please each guest. Burgers, fries and more are available at The Green Room and the Hard Rock Cafe. If excellent dining is on your mind, make reservations at the Council Oak Steaks & Seafood. Upscale dining and elegant surroundings make it a night to remember.

Friday's seafood dinner and Sunday's brunch offer a variety of delicious servings at the Fresh Harvest live action kitchens. Tasty foods such as dim sum and brick oven pizza are available throughout the week. Experience the grand presentation of desserts and select the one that appeals to you most of all.

Entertainment includes bands like Soul Circus Cowboys singing out their own style of Country Western music and pleasing the CW fans in your group. Enjoy a blend of New Wave, New Romantic and post-punk genres from Adam Ant, currently on a US tour. Hard Rock delivers a number of solo and group musical presentations, all of which are noted on their website. The short drive home reinforces how wonderful it is to own property in this part of Florida.

Tampa Prime Outlets at Cypress Creek Town Center

August 1, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Pasco County is seeing a significant amount of economic growth as construction projects like Tampa Prime Outlets at Cypress Creek Town Center contribute thousands of tax dollars, as well as current and future jobs. Simon Property Group recently announced a quality outlet mall similar to Ellenton Prime Outlets, including a Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th outlet store, is in the works. That is producing a good deal of speculation about other shops and services.

Although the mall is not expected to open until 2014, officials such as Pasco County administrator John Gallagher anticipate in excess of six thousand jobs being provided to those living in homes in Wesley Chapel, Land O' Lakes, and Lutz. Administrative and entry-level positions will be available, providing employment opportunities for people of all ages.

Simon representatives expect the development plans to be ready to submit very soon. Based on studies of the effect of similar malls in Florida and other states, approximately $25 million could be realized from property taxes and estimated sales. Pasco County School Board, which has had over $25 million removed from next year's budget, estimates $1.5 million will be generated for the school district by the mall. That, in turn, will offset future budget cuts.

The mall is just one of the major economic elements of construction providing rapid growth in the Wesley Chapel area. Porter Campus of Pasco-Hernando Community College (PHCC) and Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel (FHWC) are other developments. Looked upon as a win-win situation due to its closeness to the other projects, Porter Campus, part of the Pasco-Hernando Community College, is on target for completion in 2014. The anticipated opening student population is 1,200, and it is estimated that many of those students will find work at the mall, whose opening should coincide with that of the college.

Positions for faculty and staff at Porter Campus will benefit professionals, particularly those in the Wesley Chapel and Wiregrass Ranch area. Several certificate programs will be offered at the college, providing the chance to prepare for a career. Mall employees will have the opportunity to take classes at PHCC and upgrade skills. A nursing program will be offered, and graduates will have the benefit of a new hospital nearby where they can apply for positions.

Located on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. (BBD) across from Seven Oaks, the 80-bed FHWC is nearing completion. With over four hundred jobs to fill at the new facility, announcements are being posted on the medical center's website to encourage prospective employees to submit an application.

Although some positions will transfer from other Florida Hospital facilities, the adjacent hundred-thousand square foot wellness center/medical office building will provide jobs close to home for those living in Seven Oaks and other areas of Wesley Chapel. Accounting and medical expertise are just a few of the positions to be filled.

Is the Wesley Chapel area destined to become Pasco County's urban center? The prominent financial investment firm of T. Rowe Price has expressed interest in having offices in the area. Each new or relocated business attracts the attention of other investors and developers, bringing positive development to this part of Pasco County.

Sports Contribute to New Construction around Tampa Bay

July 23, 2012 by Lance Mohr

One part of the attraction to Tampa is the amazing choice of activities and adventure found in the area. It is no surprise to know that new construction in Tampa Bay is often caused by the number of retirees that enjoy taking in the wonderful opportunities for golf. Whether it is part of the housing development they choose to live in or one of the multitudes of public and private clubs and courses that dot Tampa and the area surrounding it, golfing is an age-old sport that will not lose its appeal.

The Outback Bowl
Another sports activity that draws a crowd is the former Hall of Fame Bowl, now known as the Outback Bowl. College football fans have delighted in the opportunity to see impressive teams in person each year, typically on the first or second of January. During the last twenty-six years, the game has gone into overtime three times.

We Love to Play in Tampa
Five college teams have participated in the Outback Bowl four or more times: Georgia, Florida, Penn State, Wisconsin, and Ohio State. The boost in the economy is significant, and the event provides residents from other areas to experience the magic that is Florida.

Most Exciting Outback Bowl Games
January 2, 2012 put this bowl game in NCAA history with a triple overtime, something that had previously happened twice. Down 0-16 at the half, Michigan State University returned to the field in an exciting second half. The final play of the third overtime was a blocked Georgia field goal attempt and a Spartans 33-39 victory.

January 1, 2010 will long be remembered as the year of records. Auburn and Northwestern participated in the second overtime game. Nine NCAA records and thirty-nine Outback Bowl records were tied or set in the Auburn 38-35 victory.

Twenty-two different schools have appeared in the Outback Bowl, including Purdue, Kentucky, Clemson and LSU. Successful annual events like this encourage new construction around Tampa Bay in the form of housing (including hotels), shopping centers, food service, medical centers and professional businesses. The record attendance for the Outback Bowl was set in 1990, with 68,085 in the stands to watch the competition between Auburn (31) and Ohio State (14). People from all over the country travel to see their favorite team, friend, relative, coach or just a great pair of college teams give a championship performance at Raymond James Stadium.

Professional Sports in the Tampa Area

July 22, 2012 by Lance Mohr

Those who spend time looking at the prices and styles of homes for sale are bound to have noted the return of Tampa Bay home values in the past few months. The lifting of the economy is putting confidence in the steps of locals as they go to the mall, work or school. In addition, the sign that things are getting better is also influencing the choices of locals on sports events to attend. To really drive the point home, though, the Tampa area is getting one more professional sports team.

Tampa Bay Rain
Even though the Tampa pro teams boast Tampa Bay, the term is used as a symbol of joint unification for Tampa, Bradenton, Clearwater, St. Petersburg and their respective localities. The Tampa Bay Rain is the latest to join the pro sports, bringing an expansion team from the American Basketball Association (ABA). Games will take place starting in October at the Expo Hall on the Florida Fairgrounds and competition will include teams like the Orlando Kings, Jacksonville Giants and the Gulf Coast Flash.

Tampa Bay Rays
Formerly the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, the team kept the cownose rays in the outfield tank, but dropped the Devil from their name in 2007 and changed the team colors and symbol. Part of the American League's Eastern Division, Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg is their home. Their first winning season was in 2008 and the Rays have maintained a winning attitude and performance since that time, earning two AL East championships among other accomplishments.

Tampa Bay Rowdies
If you are moving from Los Angeles because of Tampa is too enticing to pass up, live soccer events are still possible with the Rowdies, founded in 2008. Going by the name F. C. Tampa Bay due to a conflict of interest on the name (it was the name of the former Tampa Bay soccer team from 1975 to 1993), the dispute was resolved in December 2011 with the Rowdies name official.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The National Football League (NFL) awarded both Tampa and Seattle an expansion team in 1976. The Buccaneers switched to the NFC from the AFC after one season. Their home is at Raymond James Stadium. There have been winning and losing seasons at Raymond James Stadium. The Buc's most memorable moment is the victory against the Raiders at Qualcomm Stadium for the Super Bowl XXXVII championship.

Tampa Bay Lightning
Also called the Bolts, the Lightning is part of the National Hockey League (NHL). Home games take place at Tampa Bay Times Forum (Tampa), a far cry from the Expo Hall and its 11,000 seats at the fairgrounds where they started. These professional sports teams give fans a lot to look forward to in Tampa.

Things To Do In Tampa Bay: Honeymoon Island State Park

July 9, 2012 by Lance Mohr

There are interesting areas in all parts of Florida, and Tampa Bay and its immediate area have a fair share of the beauty of nature. Honeymoon Island is indeed beautiful, featuring sections along the shore where visitors can relax on the swings, taking advantage of the lovely scenery. With nearly four miles of shoreline, family and friends can walk along the Gulf of Mexico, looking for shells or just enjoying the warm sunshine.

The 2,810-acre Honeymoon Island State Park is easy to access, offering plentiful parking for visitors. Some days it is perfect to soak up the sun while reading a book and bracing against the sand. There is more to offer than that, however. A person can bring more than a significant other or the kids. One of the few pet beaches in Pinellas County, a designated area provides a great spot to walk and play with your pet. A leash is mandatory at all times, although it can extend for six feet.

Sand dunes of white rise up above the beach, while pine flatwood graces the scenery. A section of the land is a natural habitat for the birds and other creatures that live on the island, such as great horned owl and diamondback rattlesnakes. The magnificent osprey is a sight worth seeing all by itself. To help visitors understand more about the purpose of the habitat, the Honeymoon Island Nature Center has interactive displays, as well as exhibits. Children can participate in special activities that increase their knowledge of Florida's wildlife.

As incredible as Honeymoon Island is, beyond its boundaries, west of Tampa and north of Clearwater is Dunedin, home to the natural island of Caladesi and Caladesi Island State Park. Three miles of undeveloped beaches offer the chance to see an open part of the state. The park can only be reached by boat. A ferry crosses from Honeymoon Island State Park to Caladesi Island State Park, bringing visitors to enjoy kayaking, birding, swimming and fishing, among other events.

These two state parks are part of the reason the Tampa area is such a popular place to live. Residents have the convenience of the city and the closeness of the great outdoors. It is one of the reasons the property values of this section of the country are rebounding before much of the rest of the state and the nation. A well-balanced lifestyle awaits.

If you have any questions about buying a home in Tampa, FL please visit www.tampa2enjoy.com.

Hillsborough County Presents New Skateparks

July 3, 2012 by Lance Mohr

June 21 has passed by for 2012, but it is perfectly okay to celebrate Go Sk8boarding Day any day of the year, especially with parks as great as the one just finished in Apollo Beach and the skatepark scheduled for completion in Brandon. Part of the vision of Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department to see communities providing recreation for its many residents, the Apollo Beach and Brandon Skateparks are the work of Team Pain, commissioned to design and build the facilities.

The initial presentation of the idea included three concrete parks with a minimum of 10,000 square feet each and a and budgeted amount of $500,000 apiece. Community meetings were held to get the public's input on the facilities, areas and impact. Both Brandon and Apollo Beach were approved. Apollo Beach is completed and Brandon is nearly completed.

Apollo Beach Park has 23 acres and hosts the Apollo Beach Recreation Center. Some of the activities include baseball fields, tennis and volleyball courts, and a fitness room. There are daycare facilities and summer camps. Senior programs and classes are also offered. To make the area even more visitor-friendly, a dog park is part of the area.

The plaza style outdoor park has 11,000 square feet of incredible design. Colors include grey, gold and tangerine. The tile on the slopes increases the appealing look, in addition to providing better holding power for the skaters. The builders tested the facility prior to its formal public opening.

The park in Brandon will be just as sophisticated as that of Apollo Beach, as the Providence East Park is revamped to accommodate skaters. If both the east and west parks are consolidated, service will be improved for all the recreational events held at both facilities. The area is convenient to locals and visitors by car. The additional feature and its anticipated draw to not only residents, but visitors to the area, will bring in fees to help pay for upkeep and improvements. Keeping with the standards of similar parks, an injury waiver must be signed before a person can skate. As use fees and hours of operation are settled, those who love to skate anticipate the opportunity to try their board at one or both of these facilities.

For more information on things to do in Tampa visit www.tampa2enjoy.com and go to the resources tab.

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