
Fall2024

Fall2024
Despite hot temperatures, August welcomes the Fall Season to Amelia Island. Fall brings many exciting things to Amelia Island football, cooler temperatures (eventually), and the approach of the holiday season This issue is packed with new featured listings, market updates, thoughts on why you should consider renovating an older property, and a highlight of the Amelia Island Plantation’s 50 Year Celebration Thank you for reading Amelia Island’s only luxury real estate magazine Stay tuned for the next issue!
Sincerely,
The Miller Group is dedicated to serving the Amelia Island Community and is one of the top producing real estate teams in Nassau County Our family’s history in the community extends back to 1974 when David F Miller Sr purchased a Captains Court Villa in the Amelia Island Plantation, moving here permanently in the 80's David Miller Jr and his son, James, moved here full-time in 2001 David Miller Sr and David Miller Jr owned a real estate development company that developed a few local neighborhoods but primarily focused on building and operating climatized self-storage facilities throughout the southeast. After graduating from the University of Florida, James spent 6 years in retail sales management before starting the Miller Group real estate sales business in 2016
Since this time, the Miller Group has continually expanded the business by focusing on superior service to their clients and combining their diverse skillsets as a father and son team They remain actively involved in serving the community beyond their real estate business by supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Nassau County The Miller Group is consistently one of the top producing real estate teams in the Amelia Island luxury market. If you have any questions, please give them a call James' cell phone number is 904-557-5720 They look forward to serving you and helping you accomplish your real estate goals!
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Allrealestatephotosinthis magazinewereprofessionally takenatMillerGrouplistings. PhotographbyLynnTennille PhotographyandECVTReal EstatePhotography
The total number of sales across all residential property types on Amelia Island was up 11% in Q2 of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023 Condominium sales led the way, up 23% over last year The average sale price was up 4% for all property types, with single-family home prices nearly flat and condominium prices up 18% The time on the market increased from around two weeks in Q2 of 2023 to a little over a month in Q2 of 2024.
Inventory across the island was higher than last year. Single-family home inventory was up 14% during Q2 compared to the previous year while condo inventory was up 38% during the same period. The increase in inventory compared to last year was more concentrated during the first quarter of 2024 and then tapered off during the second quarter. It is important to keep in mind that inventory has been historically low over the past few years so an increase in inventory is to be expected. Compared to 2019, current inventory levels are still down over 30% for both single-family homes and condos.
Higher interest rates are having an impact on the lower end of the market For example, in Nassau County as a whole, the number of single-family home sales was down 16% during Q2 of 2024 compared to the previous year, yet the the number of single-family home sales on Amelia Island, where most of the county’s higher priced homes are concentrated and a higher percentage of purchases are made with cash, was up 2% This is a reflection of higher interest rates reducing the affordability of homes which disproportionately impacts lower priced properties It will be interesting to see if this dichotomy continues should interest rates remain at similar levels As long as the stock market stays healthy, the wealth effect should support demand for luxury properties If inflation continues to put pressure on the economy, eventually stock market performance will be impacted If the fed lowers interest rates later this year, there should be a boost to the housing market
Luxury buyers continue to be selective, focusing on homes in good condition The sweet spot has been properties priced under $2m that have been updated to today’s trends Many buyers are prioritizing condition over location by opting for updated properties, even if the location is less valuable than alternatives that require updating When properties do need updating, buyers are seeking discounted prices, sometimes in excess of the cost of needed renovations We think this is partly because buyer expectations have increased along with increased property values For example, the average price of homes in the Amelia Island Plantation has been over $2 million for the past two years. Five years ago, the average price was about $1 million. Before that the average price was below $900k. Prices have essentially doubled over the past five years, and now that we are past the buying frenzy of the covid years, buyer’s expectations have increased along with the price tags of properties. We advise owners to stay on top of home maintenance and to consider updates so their properties reflect current trends. We think these type of updates should be made periodically during ownership, not just before selling, so that owners can enjoy the benefits of an updated property while living there. Owners of dated properties who want to sell should consult their real estate professional and an interior designer before making home improvement decisions to ensure maximum return on the investment.
We expect consistent demand for Amelia Island properties to continue Compared to other coastal areas of Florida, Amelia Island’s development remains relatively low-density which combined with its natural beauty and vibrant culture makes it appealing to many buyers This consistent demand should offset hurdles poised by high interest rates and election year uncertainty We expect the market to remain balanced through the rest of the year Sellers should expect days on the market to be longer than the frenzied market of the past few years But median days on the market is actually lower this year than the years prior to covid, so the idea that we are in a slow market is only accurate when comparing to the unprecedented markets of 2020 to 2022 Sellers should also expect buyers to be more demanding when it comes to property conditions as previously mentioned in this article Buyers are seeking adjustments to pricing to account for renovations or floor plan challenges Buyers have more choices than the past few years but inventory still remains low If interest rates drop later this year, we could see more buyers coming back into the market
Who is your personal travel shopper? Our team works remotely from Las Vegas every August while meeting with all Virtuoso Supplier executives from cruise lines, hotels, tour operators and beyond. These relationships allow us to bring back exclusive promotions for our clients and even request exclusive options based on YOUR travel dreams. Our team also travels extensively to bring firsthand knowledge and experience to your travel planning Ange, Angela & Eric went to Finland and Norway for an Arctic cruise with Quark, while Lynann went to the true North Pole with Abercrombie & Kent. Cindy was in Costa Rica, Colombia and Peru including the Belmond train. Angela & Eric resorthopped in St. Lucia while Christina resort-hopped in Antigua. Ange explored west Greenland with Lindblad Expeditions. Then Angela & Eric took their daughters to Germany for a Tauck River cruise, including a Taylor Swift concert! Michelle sailed the Mediterranean with Oceania while Dawn sailed the Caribbean. Debbie took a Uniworld Cruise and Tracy cruised Alaska while Joy explored the the Northwest! In travel, it’s all about who you know. Let us introduce you!
As mentioned in the market analysis article in this publication, we are noticing that many buyers are prioritizing a property’s condition over its location, often choosing a renovated property in a less valuable location over a dated property in a more valuable location Many buyers state that they do not want to undergo the hassles involved with renovations The challenge with this approach is it disregards real estate’s oldest adage: location, location, location Both location and condition impact a property’s value However, there is an important difference between the two A property’s condition can be improved by a buyer, but the location cannot be changed. In addition, design trends tend to come and go, making periodic updating a reoccurring reality for every property. Measured over the course of time, location plays the largest role determining a property’s value. That’s why our advice to buyers is to focus first on location and to not be afraid to renovate a dated property in the right location. This advice isn’t just something we tell our customers, it's what we follow when making our own real estate decisions
When Dave and Kathy purchased their first home in the Amelia Is Plantation around 2001, they found the perfect location a beau Marsh Creek Road It had stunning views of the marsh, a dock on Creek, and was down the street from Dave’s parents The proble 1980's home on the lot that needed tons of updating After purc property and living in it for a year, they renovated it down to the s created a beautiful home About 15 years later, they decided to d try oceanfront condo living instead They were able to sell the ho of its great location, even though the beautiful renovations made were in need of updating again to meet the ever-changing design
Guess what kind of oceanfront condo they bought? One that ne but had fabulous views of the ocean After renovating the condo bathrooms, they had a wonderful beach paradise
Shortly after completing the renovations on the condo, David Miller Sr. passed away and his home became available. Located three houses down from Walker’s Landing, this property has stunning views of the marsh, Walker’s Creek, and the Intracoastal Waterway, plus a short dock with deep-water access The challenge? The home was dated of course Originally built in the early 80's it was a small three bedroom, three bath home with an isolated kitchen David Miller Sr remodeled the home in 2008, adding a large dining room, a large screened porch, an over-the-garage suite and gave the kitchen a facelift with new cabinets and counters But by 2017, the home was again in need of updating to reflect current trends The Miller Family put the property on the market and there were many showings over a few months The feedback from buyers was consistent: they loved the location but felt the home needed too much updating During the few months the home was for sale, Dave and Kathy would spend evenings sitting on the dock, watching the sunset and reflecting on the fun memories shared by the Miller Family at this location Although they had just finished their condo renovations, they ultimately couldn’t resist the opportunity to not only own a longtime family home, but also one of the best locations in the Amelia Island Plantation
After purchasing the property, they began renovations that took five months to complete, during which time they lived in the over-the-garage suite They decided to stay within the existing exterior footprint, but made major changes to the interior All pipes, electrical, insulation, and heating and air were replaced French oak wide-plank wood floors were used throughout the house
A total kitchen remodel included ripping out the drop-down ceiling and reclaiming space over the kitchen that previously housed air handlers in order to vault the ceiling White-washed wood was added to the ceiling for a warm but light feel The kitchen was expanded by removing a foyer closet, wet bar, and a pass-through counter in order to bump out the walls. All new appliances, custom cabinetry, and dramatic leathered quartzite countertops with the feel of oyster shells or ocean waves are highlights of the new kitchen. An unused small screen porch was enclosed and combined with the laundry room to create a butler’s pantry, larger laundry room, and wider hall leading to the garage.
The most important consideration during the remodel was to keep the view to the marsh open from the kitchen, through the dining spot, to the sunroom The large dining room that was added by David Sr became the sunroom that quickly became a favorite room with its lofted cypress beams and ceilings that fit perfectly in the marsh side location A very small master bath was enlarged by taking space from the old laundry room and reconfiguring the closet
Julie Johnson and Benjie McEntyre of Julia Hall Interiors were the designers during the renovation, giving the right advice and special recommendations throughout the process Even though a home renovation comes with plenty of hassles, the final result was well worth the effort After finishing the project, the Miller Family couldn’t be happier A property that has been in the family for generations will continue to make memories for future generations And because Kathy and Dave were willing to renovate an older property, they now own a fully updated home in one of the best locations. The best of both worlds.
For buyers interested in the best properties the island has to offer, we recommend considering a renovation project. Meet with a contractor and a designer to understand the process, timeline, and costs. Our land is so special and unique It’s what attracts buyers from all over the world to Amelia Island Home styles and design trends will come and go but the land stays the same Don’t rule out an old home that was built decades ago, because it is likely in a desirable location After all, the original homeowner who built the house picked that location at a time when there was plenty of land available As the old saying goes: if you want to find the best property on a lake, look for the oldest pier When looking to invest millions of dollars into a piece of real estate on Amelia Island, we recommend focusing first on location and then customizing the condition to your liking
“If you want to find the best property on a lake, look for the oldest pier.”
An Extraordinary Residence In The Most Serene Setting
Offered For $5,000,000
Tucked under majestic Live Oaks on a secluded cove of Red Maple Lake in the Amelia Island Plantation, sits a stunning residence in the most serene setting on the island. This 7,053 square foot estate rests on two lots that span a peninsula with over 350 feet of lake frontage surrounding three sides of the property. Unrivaled in its privacy, the grounds of the estate unfold into a park-like setting with palm and oak trees shading a grass lawn that rolls to the water’s edge The residence, thoroughly renovated in 2019, is a showcase of design ingenuity. A harmonious blend between the vintage charm of its original 1980's architecture and present-day style, gives this home an elegant and confident character Nowhere else is there an opportunity as unique and extraordinary as the combination of this breathtaking natural setting and this stunningly renovated home.
Tennille
The front entryway was designed to keep the character of the home intact while updating the style to reflect modern trends. A curved paver walkway leads to an inviting covered front porch. The intricatelypatterned pavers, glass windows, and metal roof create a marriage of textures that complement the stone facade. A muted grey color with black accents was chosen as a contemporary backdrop for the front of the home, offering a subtle yet chic canvas for the architectural elements to shine
A spacious living room sits to the right of the foyer and is the perfect retreat to cozy up next to a fire, read a book, or socialize with guests. Reclaimed wood floors set the mood, adding rich textured character to a light and airy room. The room is anchored by the floor-to-ceiling fireplace whose whitewashed finish contrasts with the weathered allure of the historic railroad tie mantle. Large windows grace the walls, adding natural light and providing beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the warmth of the wood, creating a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.
The home’s statement kitchen features two expansive islands providing ample room for both food preparation and casual dining. Sleek quartz counters span the entire kitchen and custom cabinetry maximizes storage throughout. Open wood shelves and an intricate tile backsplash provide a pop of personality that complements the soft neutral palette Equipped with highend appliances, this kitchen is a culinary and entertaining masterpiece. The openconcept design includes an inviting family room, lined with expansive windows and skylights, overlooks the parklike setting of the back lawn.
A remarkable great room serves as the heart of the home. It is a space that is both grand and intimate, capable of hosting formal gatherings and relaxed family moments Beautiful stone floors juxtaposed with soaring vaulted ceilings create a striking contrast The wood tongue and groove ceiling is painted white and accented with reclaimed wood beams Two sides of the great room are covered with windows providing panoramic views of Red Maple Lake and the beautiful grounds outside Massive reclaimed wood posts stretch from floor to ceiling and divide the room into distinct areas. The formal dining area of the great room beckons as the quintessential backdrop for hosting extraordinary dinner parties. Dual weathered pendants, suspended from the vaulted ceiling, cast a warm glow over the dining space. Adding to the ambiance is custom built-in cabinetry with lower cabinets painted in a soothing and sophisticated soft grey hue and topped with wood counters. Above, the upper cabinets take on a bold and modern persona, fashioned from custom-welded metal The interplay of wood, metal, and stone sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience
Adjacent to the great room is a versatile space serving multiple purposes It is currently being used as a game room and spacious art studio Future homeowners will find this multifunctional area not only inspiring but also adaptable, as the layout allows for easy conversion into a media room, home office, gym, or children’s playroom
An expansive screened porch effortlessly blurs the boundaries between indoor comfort and the great outdoors With panoramic views, it becomes the go-to spot to enjoy Amelia Island’s famous island breezes
Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a stunning residence in Amelia Island’s most tranquil setting. A sanctuary surrounded by Red Maple Lake, with unparalleled privacy and park-like grounds, this exceptional property has no equal. The 7,000 square foot home, a masterpiece of modern design, offers the epitome of coastal living Embrace the chance to call this haven your own, where every detail captures the essence of a life welllived Indulge in luxury and serenity at 24 Wild Grape
24 Wild Grape Drive
Amelia Island, FL 32034
$5,000,000 | 4 beds, 4.5 baths, 7053 sq ft
Listed by the Miller Group with One Sothebys International Realty. Contact Dave Miller or James Miller to schedule a private tour.
Dave: 904 206 0525 | James: 904 557 5720
Nestled in its own private sanctuary next to Walker’s
Landing, this property offers one of the most stunning marsh views in the Amelia Island Plantation. Boaters will love the deep-water access dock that has over 8 feet of depth at low tide. Spectacular sunsets create a beautiful scene throughout the seasons The large 0 8 acre lot offers unusual privacy and flexibility to customize this property to your liking. This is one of the most prized locations in the Amelia Island Plantation which is why it was one of the first homes built.
This contemporary home’s open floor plan ensures that all primary living areas capitalize on the incredible views Two fireplaces create distinct areas perfect for entertaining
The kitchen includes granite counters, Thermador appliances, and custom wood cabinetry.
The primary living suite is nicely secluded in a separate wing of the home on the first floor and offers large vaulted ceilings.
Two walk-in closets, a grand bath area, and spacious exercise room provide great functionality for the primary suite.
Three guest suites are located on the second floor, each with spectacular views Three full-size garage spaces provide ample parking for large vehicles and a golf cart With a shingle roof installed in 2020, whole-house generator, and irrigation sourced from an on-site deep-water well, this property is ready to be customized to your liking. This is a unique opportunity to own one of the most prized locations in the Amelia Island Plantation.
$3,300,000
Is it time to simplify your life by downsizing from a single-family
home to a condo but you worry the space would be too small? Worry no more! Introducing 6520 Spyglass Circle in the lovely Amelia Island Plantation. What makes this condo so unique is its unbelievable entertaining and outdoor space Not only does this condo include 3,364 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, it also has unrivaled patio and balcony space totaling 2,413 square feet. The east-facing patio opens to a fenced yard which is perfect for pets and the
west-facing patio provides an expansive setting for outdoor dining and entertaining. Spyglass II is the newest condominium in the Plantation and this spectacular condo was extensively remodeled by Julia Hall Interiors Complete with 2 dedicated parking spaces in the underneath garage, this condo is the perfect property for those looking for the ease of condo life but who want the comfort of spacious, full-time living.
The living area was expanded from the original footprint to include a beautiful bar complete with custom cabinetry, two Thermador wine coolers, Sub-Zero freezer and refrigerator drawers, a functional sink, and quartzite counters.
The kitchen was personally designed by the owner, who is a professionally-trained chef, to accommodate every culinary need. The custom cabinetry extends from floor to ceiling, offering ample storage space The white quartzite counters create a sleek and sophisticated look yet are easy to keep clean. The top-of-the-line appliance package includes a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Thermador induction stove, plus a Thermador oven and steam oven. The kitchen floor plan is not only open to the main living area but also opens to the beautiful dining room and expansive west-facing patio.
The primary suite was extensively remodeled with stunning light fixtures, handpainted wall finishes, and a spa-like bathroom.
The west-facing patio has unbelievable balcony space and the perfect spot for outdoor dining during the winter.
Eat this luxury oceanfront condo in the Amelia Island Plantation! Stunning views of the ocean and dunes await! Thoroughly renovated in 2020, this condo is move-in ready Wood plank porcelain tile floors throughout the condo provide a designer look with the durability to handle a beach lifestyle. The kitchen offers stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, beautiful white counters and includes a wine fridge Watch the sunrise over the sparkling Atlantic Ocean as you sit outside on your private patio with ground-level access.
The open floor plan includes a generously sized living room with dining room and huge eat-in kitchen with massive counter space. A convenient coffee or wine bar offers hotel-like hospitality for the guest side of the split bedroom plan The primary suite has dreamy ocean views and a lavish spa-like bath with a huge tile shower. All windows and sliding doors were replaced in 2022. This villa includes one parking space in garage underneath the building An elevator provides easy access from the parking level to the villa A large storage area in the garage makes this an ideal full-time residence or exceptional beach getaway!
Rare oceanfront balcony overlooking theAtlantic Ocean with ground-level access.
Enjoy amazing sunsets from
your screened lanai overlooking Amelia Island’s vast salt marsh and Intracoastal Waterway!
Located in sought-after Amelia Island Plantation and Omni Resort, this inviting villa offers stunning views in an idyllic island setting. Vaulted wood ceilings and beautiful tile floors in the main living areas create a warm and spacious feel The bright living room opens to the screened porch and an open-air sitting area where you can enjoy the serene marsh views.
The kitchen has a neutral palette, quartz counters, and a cozy breakfast nook. Downstairs, there is a guest bedroom with a private, front-facing deck, and a full guest bath Upstairs, the primary suite has a renovated bath and private, marsh facing balcony. Located steps from the quiet community pool and just a short golf cart ride to the beach, this villa is the perfect island getaway. The exterior windows and doors were recently replaced HVAC and hot water heater were replaced in 2019
Stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean abound from one of the most private oceanfront homes on Amelia Island! This beautiful home embodies the most desirable attributes of a quintessential Mediterranean estate: expansive ocean views, dedicated beach access steps from an unusually gracious terrace, colonnade, balconies, screened loggia, all oceanfront and uniquely private. This home's true Mediterranean nature is reflected in the mission barrel tile roof imported from Spain, 100+ year old wood beams, imported French oak flooring, etc. (See attached special features list for full details) The Main Floor was designed to provide all owner ’ s wants and needs for convenient, accessible and incomparable style of living Other floors provide 4 more en-suite bedrooms, each with private balcony All floors have elevator access Situated on two lots inside a gated enclave within the Amelia Island Plantation's gated community with 24/7 private security force Amelia Island Club membership available
4 Dunes Court, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
$9,975,000 |
Unbelievable views of Nassau Sound & Intracoastal Waterway and amazing sunsets! Sitting on 1 13 acres, this property has an unrivaled 246 feet of water frontage and includes a dock with boat lift and 24/7 deep-water access Fully renovated in 2009 the main house includes 5,692 square feet with 4 beds, 4 baths, 2 half baths, an executive office suite, a 2nd office, wine cellar, and an elevator The living room has beautiful Brazilian Oak floors and stunning views The designer kitchen includes neutral finishes, Wolf & SubZero appliances, and opens to the living room and dining room Includes 2 separate garages for 4 cars, workroom space and generator for the main house Adjacent to the main house is the perfect space for entertaining: the poolscape and party house The party house includes 2012 sq ft, 2 baths, a guest suite on the 2nd floor and full catering kitchen which opens up to a large patio, infinity pool w/ hot tub, and full summer kitchen...all of which have expansive views.
Marshfront Grandness- Spectacular sunsets await you in this spacious marshfront home on Amelia Island Plantation. Ask about AI Club membership option. Located on one of the most prestigious streets in the community on nearly an acre of land with 132 ft of marsh frontage, this concrete block wall constructed 5,056 sq ft home is sure to amaze. From vaulted ceilings in the entry foyer, great room and sunroom to coffered and trey ceilings in the kitchen and dining rooms this home presents a unique grandness. Yet it is the home's views to the marsh and intracoastal waterway that take your breath away The ample use of glass thoughout the home brings in much natural lighting while offering incredible views This is a home designed for entertaining yet offering the convenience of all living spaces and 3 BRs on the same 1st floor Plans are available for a 4th BR suite above the garage The garage has A/C for car lovers
Just reduced! Great value for amazing marsh and ICW views Welcome to your marshfront dream home on the beautiful Red Cedar Road, located within the Amelia Island Plantation Prepare to be captivated by breathtaking sunsets over the marsh & Intracoastal Waterway This single-story floor plan is perfectly designed for convenience and comfort The heart of the home is the large great room that takes advantage of the expansive marsh views and includes a beautifully designed, large skylight providing lots of natural light The modern kitchen offers a neutral palette & ample storage A spacious office sits off the great room & could easily be converted into a 4th bedroom The primary suite has stunning marsh views, a spa-like shower & large designer closet The back deck is the perfect spot to enjoy the evening sunset. Marshfront living is an extraordinary experience. With very limited marsh front properties, don't miss this opportunity to claim this exclusive lifestyle for yourself.
Price just reduced! A great oceanfront opportunity This is a turnkey furnished Oceanfront duplex (or single family home) with stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Amelia Island's award-winning beaches. This property is extremely versatile and a great investment as both units can be rented or one be can used by the owner. This property could also be easily made into a single family home with a 2 car garage underneath. The two sides are mirror images and both in good condition with excellent ongoing rental history. The property is elevated with parking for two cars underneath The elevation provides for wonderful ocean views from the primary and 2nd floor bedroom levels Front and Rear decks were replaced in 2024 All appliances and roof were new in 2020 Versatility, Oceanfront location and great condition- this property has it all
831 Ocean Avenue, Amelia Island, FL 32034
$1,650,000 | 4 beds, 2 & 2 half baths, 1920 sq ft
Priced to allow for updating, this cozy home is nestled on a quiet street in the heart of the prestigious Amelia Island Plantation This exquisite 4-bedroom, 4 5-bath residence offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience An excellent floor plan that has a perfect balance between privacy and shared living areas The kitchen is open to the living room and the primary bedroom, conveniently located on the first floor, boasts a spacious retreat with thoughtful separation from the guest bedrooms The attention to detail extends outdoors where the property is beautifully landscaped with low maintenance in mind & features a paver driveway extended decking The proximity to nature trails allows for leisurely walks among the natural beauty of AIP Whether you ' re relaxing on the private screened porch or exploring the nearby trails, this home offers a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living. New roof installed in fall 2023 and the interior was freshly painted.
ServiceAsElevatedAsYourStandards
$2,500,000
$2,350,000
$2,100,000
$2,000,000
$1,350,000
$535,000
This year, Amelia Island Plantation (AIP) is marking its 50th anniversary with multiple events and great style! The community is celebrating the innovations of developer Charles Fraser and visionary landscape architect Ian McHarg, who imagined a new kind of community in harmony with nature Facing occasional setbacks during the first fifty years by bankruptcies, recession, and even a worldwide pandemic, AIP community members remained strong and resilient and now look optimistically toward the next fifty years It's a story worthy of celebration, and there's truly something for everyone to enjoy throughout the year!
The anniversary’s opening weekend, February 2nd to 4th, began Friday night at The Oaks with an informal party, "Cheers to 50 Years," attended by more than 400 A String of Pearls, a 10-minute video created especially for the anniversary, debuted complete with a red carpet and featured recollections from original and long-time AIP residents Also making its debut that evening was "The First 50 Years--A Photo Journal," comprised of 36 boards mounted on easels, chronicling AIP’s first 50 years in photos and text, decade by decade The exhibit traveled to Osprey Village at the end of February It will travel around the island with stops at the Nassau County Council on Aging, Story & Song Center for Arts & Culture, and the Amelia Island Museum of History before returning to its permanent home in Amelia Island Plantation.
The weekend continued on Saturday with the Annual Meeting, where attendees toasted the 50th with mimosas and speakers who celebrated the community's history On Sunday, residents gathered at the Amelia Plantation Chapel for a service of thanks conducted by Senior Pastor Ken Jones, and they were treated to a carillon concert of inspiring patriotic music
The first of three “Focus on 50” presentations took place on February 22nd and featured Dr Taylor Clem, Nassau County Extension Director The series is made possible by the generous support of The Greenery, a full-service commercial and residential landscape maintenance company Clem enlightened attendees about landscape architect Ian McHarg, his contribution to Amelia Island Plantation, its worldwide impact, and how communities can include nature as a planning consideration It was to McHarg, one of the most influential landscape architects of the 20th century, that AIP founder Charles Fraser turned to achieve his vision of a community in harmony with nature. The result was Amelia Island Plantation's master plan, unveiled in 1972. The program was recorded and is available on the AIPCA website, www.aipca.net.
Under the Live Oaks, a cookbook containing nearly 300 recipes, including favorite recipes from community members, several from AIP chefs, and cherished recipes from years gone by, was launched successfully over opening weekend, with more than 200 sold The cookbook can be purchased at The Oaks during regular business hours and at The Book Loft and Story & Song Bookstore on the Island
From 1980 to 2008, Amelia Island Plantation was a mecca for tennis fans who came to watch Women's Tennis Association (WTA) championship tennis on the clay courts of beautiful Racquet Park On March 23rd, "Game, Set, Match!" allowed tennis enthusiasts to relive the fun and excitement of watching professional tennis on Amelia Island Three of the sport's greats, Kathy Rinaldi, Ann Grossman, and Brenda Schultz, visited for an incredible afternoon recalling the heyday of WTA play in our community This exciting event, sponsored by Xfinity, was a "mustsee" and included a clinic with the three pros led by the Cliff Drysdale Tennis team, and an entertaining, complimentary doubles exhibition match on Center Court followed by an audience question and answer session with the pros Clinic participants and VIP access guests met and mingled, obtained autographs, and took photos courtside with the pros
"Amelia in Bloom," a curated garden tour, took center stage on Sunday, April 14th, showcasing AIP’s unique beauty Eight generous homeowners opened their remarkable private landscapes and hidden gardens to neighbors, many for the first time These owners chose various ways "to live in harmony with nature," and attendees agreed that each garden reflected their individuality and appreciation of this beautiful place The afternoon concluded with a reception at Plantation Artists' Guild and Gallery Paintings of the gardens by gallery artists were displayed in a "wet paint" show on the porch, as were paintings of island flora and fauna in an exhibit entitled “Amelia in Bloom” Beautiful Blooms Landscape Design-Build and The Miller Group--One Sotheby's International Realty were the event's premier sponsors, with additional support from the Plantation Artists' Guild and Gallery
On May 7th, all residents were invited to Walker’s Landing for the second "Focus on 50" presentation titled "Visionaries & Pioneers" Attendees honored "first families" and learned about the early days of Charles Fraser's career as a developer and the beginnings of the Amelia Island Plantation from two men who knew him well Former Amelia Island Company President/CEO Jack Healan and former Sea Pines Company General Counsel and long-time advisor to Charles Fraser, Charles Scarminach, shared their personal experiences and great stories about the legendary developer who envisioned AIP
From its beginnings until today, Amelia Island Plantation's greatest treasure has been our unparalleled natural environment encompassing beach, dunes, maritime forest, and tidal marshes The "Explore Amelia" weekend, June 21st-23rd, encouraged members to get out and enjoy AIP's natural wonders The weekend kicked off with an outdoor party under the stars at beautiful Walker's Landing On June 21st, the Amelia Island Plantation Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization that implements environmental programs to benefit AIP residents and visitors, hosted a ribbon cutting and activities celebrating its Pollinator Pathway along First Coast Highway The first phase of this beautification project to install irrigated plant beds featuring native pollinator-friendly flowers and trees runs from just south of David Gregory Drive north to Burney Road When completed, plans call for the Pollinator Pathway to extend south to the Long Point Entrance On June 21st and 22nd, community members took part in a variety of nature excursions along the beach, trails, and waterways, celebrating the wildlife and ecosystems that are an integral part of life in AIP
The Fourth of July has been a special event at AIP since July 4, 1974, when the resort marked its grand opening That tradition continued in 2024 with a full slate of activities bringing neighbors together to celebrate this special anniversary Our New Neighbor Welcome event was followed by a special live event at The Oaks with good food and great music A day of celebrations on July 4th started with AIPCA's wildly popular patriotic golf cart parade and ended with fireworks from the Omni Amelia Island Resort and the Amelia Island Club Several new elements helped to make this year ’ s 3-day celebration special - the Jaguar Drum-line entertained 300 cart parade participants as they lined up at Racquet Park, members of the Fernandina Beach High School Band led the parade, and 30 classic and vintage automobiles were on display in The Oaks parking lot Additionally, sales of a commemorative history book, AIP's First Fifty: Recollections and Reflections launched over the July 4th holiday
This nostalgic coffee table book celebrates AIP’s incredible history It traces the evolution of this iconic residential / resort community from its founding vision of living in harmony with nature through decades of dedicated advancement and perseverance by community owners and leaders This book can be purchased at the Oaks during regular business hours as well as the Book Loft, Story and Song, and the Amelia Island Plantation Shop
October’s cooler temperatures signal the return of many AIP residents 50th Anniversary events for the Fall include:
October 6 - We will kickoff the month at Walkers Landing with "Food! Glorious Food!" The Amelia Island Opera Company will present a fun-filled evening of food-themed music starting with the opera Bon Appetit! followed by musical selections celebrating food including "Food! Glorious Food!" from the Broadway musical Oliver!
October 24 - The final “Focus on 50” Thoughtful Thursday will present a panel discussing the Plantation's Middle Years when Dick Cooper owned the property (1978 -2010) and the emphasis of transitioning from a summer resort into a year around community
October 25 - Fifty years ago the Pelican Club suppers began a long tradition of potluck dinners at the Plantation For a decade or longer, Sunset at Walkers Landing brought the community together for potluck suppers and dancing "Sunset at Walkers Landing Revival" will reintroduce a new and enhanced version of Sunset At Walker’s
November 9 - In lieu of the Fall Festival, we've planned a "Field Day" The daytime events will feature a community-wide scavenger hunt and as the sunsets over the marsh, the sky over Red Maple Lake will come alive with a drone show highlighting the people and places that make the Amelia Island Plantation special
December 6 -Concluding the 50th Anniversary Celebration and in the spirit of the season, a relatively recent community tradition, "Light Up The Oaks", promises to hold some special surprises!
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The Miller Report is Amelia Island's only luxury real estate magazine and is published by the Miller Group of One Sotheby's International Realty This magazine is directly mailed to luxury properties on Amelia Island with the goal to inform our readers about Amelia Island's luxury real estate market, promote local businesses, and celebrate the luxurious yet approachable lifestyle offered by our community After all, luxury is defined by more than just price Luxury entails service, quality, and above all else, character Bringing these aspects in our approach to selling luxury real estate has lead to the creation of this magazine What started out as a small market update to our clients has evolved into the publication you are reading today We hope you enjoy the Summer 2023 Issue of the Miller Report and look forwarded to reading more from us in the future!
The Miller Group is dedicated to serving the Amelia Island Community and is one of the top producing real estate teams in Nassau County. Our family’s history in the community extends back to 1974 when David F Miller Sr purchased a Captains Court Villa in the Amelia Island Plantation, moving here permanently in the 80's David Miller Jr and his son, James, moved here full-time in 2001 David Miller Sr and David Miller Jr owned a real estate development company that developed a few local neighborhoods but primarily focused on building and operating climatized selfstorage facilities throughout the southeast After graduating from the University of Florida, James spent 6 years in retail sales management before starting the Miller Group real estate sales business in 2016.
Since this time, the Miller Group has continually expanded the business by focusing on superior service to their clients and combining their diverse skillsets as a father and son team They remain actively involved in serving the community beyond their real estate business by supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Nassau County The Miller Group is consistently one of the top producing real estate teams in the Amelia Island luxury market If you have any questions, please give them a call James' cell phone number is 904-557-5720 They look forward to serving you and helping you accomplish your real estate goals!