ARPRIL 2025 Seaside Living GROUP
NEWS INSIDE:
NEW TEAM MEMBERS
Meet Silvia, Ingrid and Carolina, Seaside’s new additions
EXPLORE FLORIDA:
We check out St Armand’s Circle this month One of Florida’s many gems
NAR REPORT: which projects homeowners may want to prioritize if they plan to sell in 1-2 years
APRIL MORTGAGE RATES
Today's mortgage interest rates have increased According to Zillow, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has risen by 17 basis points to 6.69%. The 15-year fixed interest rate is up 17 basis points to 6.05%, making it the first time the 15-year rate has surpassed 6% in over three weeks.
Mortgage rate movements are becoming volatile due to uncertainty around tariffs, stagflation, and other economic factors If you're ready to buy a home, focus on finding the best mortgage lender and type of loan for your situation Comparing three or four lenders can help you find the best deal in an unsteady rate environment.
ARM Rates
Rates on adjustable-rate mortgages are comparable to fixed rates right now Last month, the average mortgage rate for a 7/1 ARM was 6 63%, while the average rate for a 5/1 ARM was 6 50%, according to Zillow data
FLORIDA LIFESTYLE FLORIDA LIFESTYLE PLACES TO SEE: PLACES TO SEE: ST ARMANDS CIRCLE ST ARMANDS CIRCLE
St Armands Circle is a charming and upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment district located on St Armands Key, just off the coast of Sarasota, Florida It's connected to the mainland by the John Ringling Causeway, making it easily accessible from downtown Sarasota.
Here’s a quick overview of what makes St. Armands Circle special:
�� A Blend of Elegance & Island Vibes
Beautifully landscaped circle with palm-lined streets, brick sidewalks, and a relaxed yet refined coastal atmosphere.
Known for its European-style layout, originally envisioned by circus magnate John Ringling, who was instrumental in the development of the area
�� Shopping & Boutiques
Dozens of independent shops, art galleries, and designer boutiques line the circle
Great place to find unique gifts, clothing, jewelry, home décor, and specialty items
�� Dining & Nightlife
Offers a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and ice cream shops, from upscale seafood and steak to casual bites and international cuisine. Many spots offer al fresco dining, perfect for peoplewatching and enjoying the Florida breeze.
�� Culture & History
Features The Circus Ring of Fame, honoring famous circus performers in tribute to Sarasota's circus legacy
The area has a rich connection to the Ringling Brothers Circus, and John Ringling’s influence is still felt today
What’s your Florida Lifestyle?
�� Close to the Beach
Just a short walk from Lido Beach, making it easy to go from boutique shopping to beach lounging
You’ll often see visitors enjoying a beach day followed by an evening stroll and dinner around the circle
Happy Happy Easter Easter
Easter Falls on April 20 of this year
Did you know? Easter Eggs symbolize rebirth and new life?
Family traditions vary by culture: lamb, ham, breads, & sweet treats like Hot Cross Buns are very popular
Passover ends on Easter Sunday this year. Orthodox Easter also lands on April 20 in 2025
LOCAL EVENTS PUNTA GORDA
RICH HISTORICAL TAPESTRY
Punta Gorda, Florida, has become a magnet for real estate buyers seeking a unique blend of charm, lifestyle, and investment potential This picturesque city on Florida’s Gulf Coast offers a compelling mix of historical significance, waterfront living, and economic stability
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JOIN IN WITH COMMUNITY
Farmer’s Market near Venice City Hall - 8am - 1pm
APRIL 20
APRIL 22
MAY 2-4
MAY 3
Easter Sunday - eggs hunts and celebrations are observed
Earth Day - help take care of our beautiful state with environmental awareness
FEATURED HOME LISTINGS
Annual Hibiscus Fest - Gilchrist Park Celebrate Punta Gorda’s official flower with music, food and fun!
Punta Gorda Taco Fest - Laishley Park- Indulge in a variety of tacos from local vendors & enjoy live music
SARASOTA & CHARLOTTE COUNTY MARCH 2025 SHOPPING FOR A
*Data source: RocketHomes and SunStats
SEASIDE’S NEW ADDITIONS TO THE TEAM
Silvia Eloisa Price joins us from the Punta Gorda area. Her roots in Real Estate began in Guatemala and she’s brought that passion with her to Florida to help turn her client’s dreams of homeownership into a reality.
Ingrid Mosquera comes to us serving the Cape Coral and surrounding areas of Southwest Florida She specializes in helping first-time homebuyers and those seeking single-family properties Ingrid love’s connecting with her clients and their families, and understanding their needs in an authentic manner
Carolina Carvajal brings her passion, dedication and expertise of Real Estate to Cutler Bay and the greater Miami area of South Florida Specializing in helping guide her clients through a smooth and successful transaction, from the first showing to the closing day
APRIL 2025 Seaside Living GROUP
REMODELING PROJECTS THAT OFFER BEST VALUE AT RESALE
Being able to help sellers prioritize home improvements and maximize their net on the sale is a key value real estate agents offer. For a range of home improvement projects, the Remodeling Impact Report compares estimated cost (estimates are from a NARI member survey) with real estate professionals’ estimates of the likely dollar value at resale The report revealed the following home remodeling projects may offer the highest returns, based on their estimated cost recovery at resale: (estimated return based on upfront cost)
New steel front door: 100%
Closet renovation: 83%
New fiberglass front door: 80%
New vinyl windows: 74%
New wood windows: 71%