Lagoon Life … the ultimate escape.

Lagoon Life … the ultimate escape.

by | Aug 11, 2023 | Housing Market, Lifestyle, Local News

The appeal of a crystal lagoon is something that draws people from across the globe. Anyone who is searching for a cleaner, safer, and more affordable way to enjoy living in a tropical paradise chilling inside their enclosed patio will agree once they visit these locations.

To some, lagoon living, like what is offered by Epperson by Metro Places is still unknown. While this is true, there are others who have flocked to these areas for all the benefits they offer. Keep reading to learn what these are and make an educated decision regarding if this is a great place to live.

What Is Offered by Lagoon Life? Crystal blue waters, beautiful palm trees, gorgeous hillside landscaping, endless white sand -; this sounds like a picture right out of a travel magazine. The only thing that is missing from lagoon is the smell of the sea air and the sound the waves make when they hit the water. It is important to note that a lagoon is not a real beach in the sense of what people consider a beach to be. In fact, it is a 16-million-gallon body of water that is manmade, sitting on an eight-acre plot of land. The Lagoon at Epperson is located approximately 25 miles from the coast of Tampa, and it is a community of the West Chapel area.  The concept of lagoon living got its start in the Middle East and South America. While this is true, it is now beginning to spread and take hold across the United States. Currently, there are five lagoon communities that are open in the states of Texas and Florida. There are seven more of these communities planned to open in the coming years, with the states of Pennsylvania and California adding them to the mix.

The Builders Behind Lagoon Living Currently, there are about seven builders, including several public companies, including D.R. Horton, Pulte, and Lennar that are now putting together over 1,000 homes next to and around the lagoon areas. The homes are starting to sell much faster than the comparable homes that are not located near a lagoon. Epperson witnessed a sales increase of 21% in sales when the model homes opened in the preconstruction period. This occurred over a period of five months. Compare this to the one to five percent increase in the competitive communities in the local area. For most of the builders, the lagoon is the thing that really stands out and provides the differentiator. There are homes across the Tampa area that have been constructed for a number of years. When someone chooses lagoon living, it provides them with a new perk or amenity to enjoy. There are all sorts of things to do in these communities, including traditional clubhouses, golf courses, and even the eight-acre lagoon, which provides countless water activities and sports.

About the Lagoon – The actual lagoon is considered a bit of a technical feat. This is a constantly filtered body of water, and if there is a vacuum-like machine that will run throughout the day, which removes any type of foreign matter or other debris. The entire lagoon is constantly monitored by a Florida-based control center. Here, it is possible to view any type of foreign matter, such as an alligator, right away. This is something that occurred at the Epperson lagoon, but it was able to be detected and removed quickly before any issues occurred. This is considered patented technology. As a result, it means that the disinfection process that is used is not fully explained; however, it is known that ultrasonic systems are used. This results in 100 times fewer chemicals than a traditional swimming pool and just around two percent of all the energy. This is what makes everything “work.”

Who Should Consider Lagoon Living? The fact is that lagoon living is something that can appeal to everyone. Both young and old people find this type of community extremely exciting. There are more than a few amenities and features to enjoy and the cost of living is low. However, there are also several things to do and consider before moving forward and moving in the area. While lagoon living seems appealing, it is important to note that it may not be right for everyone. This is a great location for people who love the water and want fast and easy access to clean and safe water at all times. This water does not have the chemicals that swimming pools are known for and all debris and nefarious “critters” are removed.

Moving into a Lagoon Community – When it comes to moving into a lagoon community, there are many factors that need to be considered. Take some time to tour the area and ensure that the desired results are achieved. In most cases, viewing a model home in the area and then touring the entire eight-acre property is a great way to see what this area has to offer.

Don’t underestimate the benefits offered by living by the water. There are health benefits offered by living by the water, which is something that has been proven time and time again. While these areas may not have the saltwater spray or the crashing waves, they are just as relaxing and appealing. Everyone can enjoy lagoon living from individuals to couples with young children and even people who have retired.

Finding the Right Lagoon Community – When it comes to lagoon living, there are several communities to consider. Be sure to get to know what the options are to find the one that is right for the individuals who want to move there. Being informed and touring the different areas is some of the best ways to ensure that the right community is chosen. Lagoon living is a new way to enjoy living on the water. This is something that is appealing to almost everyone and something that people should consider. It is a fun way to live life and enjoy all that the modern world has to offer.

Season of Gratitude

Season of Gratitude

by | Sep 5, 2022 | Lifestyle

This time of year is a great time to reflect on all the things we are grateful for and show gratitude for all our moments in life.  Every time I step outside and feel the sunlight on my face, I feel gratitude.

The sun and the change of seasons serve as a reminder that there is a fresh new beginning to each day with opportunities waiting to be discovered. 

 Why Gratitude is Key to Having a Positive Mindset.

 To live a happy life with a positive mindset, you need to have more gratitude. Gratitude is one of the building blocks of developing a more positive outlook on life and is key to living in the moment and appreciating all of the amazing things in your life. 

The Seas the Day Finding Sunshine Gratitude Journal and Workbook is an impactful way to develop a positive mindset.  Click Here To Download the Gratitude Journal and Workbook.

Happy Labor Day To All!

Wine Tasting

Wine Tasting

by | Oct 5, 2021 | Beach Life, Foodie

The Art Of Wine Tasting

Even though many just assume that wine tasting is sipping, swishing, and swallowing – many are amazed to find that it’s actually a bit more. Wine tasting is more of an art, an art that is used to distinguish the taste of fine wines. Wine can be a tasty and refreshing drink – if the bottle was stored correctly and aged properly.

Wine tasting begins with the swishing. The reason why wine tasters swish the wine around in their mouths is to get the taste. Both the front and the back areas of the tongue contain taste buds, although neither one has any distinct sensation in taste. Taste buds can detect food and liquid that is bitter, salty or sweet, without a problem. To get the proper taste from wine however, you need to swish it around in your mouth and allow your taste buds and sense of smell to bring out the unique and fine flavors in the wine.

When you have a cold however, the wine can taste very different. When tasting your wine, your sense of smell has a major impact on the taste. What many fail to realize, is that over 75% of our taste is due to our sense of smell. When we have a cold, our sense of smell is affected. Therefore, when eating or tasting wine with a cold, the taste will appear different. Wine tasters all over the world will tell you that tasting wine is more about a sense of smell than the actual taste buds.

The art of wine tasting is indeed an art. Wine tasters do however, follow some general guidelines and rules that judge how great a wine is. These techniques can help you bring the most out of your wine, providing you follow them and know how to bring out the taste.

The first thing to do with wine is to look. With wine, you can tell quite a bit about it by looking at it. You should always start by pouring the wine into a clear glass, then taking a few minutes to look at the color. As far as the color goes, white whines aren’t white, but actually yellow, green, or brown. Red wines on the other hand are normally a pale red or dark brown color. Red wine gets better with age, while white whines get more stale with age.

Next, is the smell of the wine, which you should do in two steps. You should start with a brief smell to get a general idea of the wine, then take a deep, long smell. This deeper smell should allow you take the flavor of the wine in. The more experienced wine tasters prefer to sit back a bit and think about the smell before they actually taste the wine.

Last but not least, is to taste the wine. To properly taste the wine, you should first take a sip, swish it around in your mouth, and then swallow. Once you swish the wine around in your mouth, you’ll bring out the rich and bold flavors of the wine. After swallowing, you’ll be able to distinguish the after taste of the wine, and the overall flavor.

Once you have looked at the wine, smelled it, and finally tasted it, you’ll be able to evaluate the wine from a taster’s standpoint. This is the easiest way to determine the quality of the wine, and whether or not it has been properly stored and aged. As with all things in life – the more you taste wine – the better you will get at distinguishing the unique flavors.

Start Your Day Positive

Start Your Day Positive

by | Jul 25, 2017 | Beach Life

Happy As You Want To Be

Almost everyone has heard the hit single ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin. The song has a very catchy way of conveying its message of being happy to everyone.  This simple message surely made a lot of people by telling them not to worry.  Living a happy, resilient, and optimistic life is wonderful and is also good for your health. Being happy actually protects you from the stresses of life. Stress is linked to top causes of death such as heart disease, cancer, and stroke. One of the better things ever said is – ‘The only thing in life that will always remain the same is change’, and in our life, we have the power to make the necessary changes if we want to. Even if we find ourselves in an unbearable situation, we can always find solace in the knowledge that it too would change.

Social networks or relationships are essential to happiness. People are different, accept people for who or what they are, avoid clashes, constant arguments, and let go of all kinds of resentments. If arguments seem unavoidable still try and make an effort to understand the situation and you might just get along. Happiness is actually found in everyone, increasing it is a way to make a life more wonderful and also healthy. To be happy is relatively easy, just decide to be a happy person. Abraham Lincoln observed that most people for most of the time can choose how happy or stressed, how relaxed or troubled, how bright or dull their outlook to be. The choice is simple really, choose to be happy.

There are several ways by which you can attempt to do this. 

Being grateful is a great attitude.  We have so much to be thankful for. Thank the taxi driver for bringing you home safely, thank the cook for a wonderful dinner and thank the guy who cleans your windows. Also, thank the mailman for bringing you your mails, thank the policeman for making your place safe, and thank God for being alive.

News is stressful. Get less of it. Some people just can’t start their day without their daily dose of news. Try and think about it, 99% of the news we hear or read is bad news. Starting the day with bad news does not seem to be a sensible thing to do.

A religious connection is also recommended. Being part of a religious group with its singing, sacraments, chanting, prayers and meditations foster inner peace.

Manage your time. Time is invaluable and too important to waste. Time management can be viewed as a list of rules that involves scheduling, setting goals, planning, creating lists of things to do and prioritizing. These are the core basics of time management that should be understood to develop an efficient personal time management skill. These basic skills can be fine-tuned further to include the finer points of each skill that can give you that extra reserve to make the results you desire.

Laugh and laugh heartily every day.  Heard a good joke? Tell your friends or family about it. As they also say -‘Laughter is the best medicine. Express your feelings, affections, friendship and passion to people around you. They will most likely reciprocate your actions. Try not to keep pent-up anger of frustrations, this is bad for your health. Instead, find ways of expressing them in a way that will not cause more injury or hurt to anyone.

Express your feelings, affections, friendship and passion to people around you. They will most likely reciprocate your actions. Try not to keep pent-up anger of frustrations, this is bad for your health. Instead, find ways of expressing them in a way that will not cause more injury or hurt to anyone.

Working hard brings tremendous personal satisfaction. It gives a feeling of being competent in finishing our tasks. Accomplishments are necessary for all of us, they give us a sense of value. Work on things that you feel worthy of your time. Learning is a joyful exercise. Try and learn something new every day.  Learning also makes us expand and broaden our horizons. And could also give us more opportunities in the future.

Run, jog, walk and do other things that your body was made for. Feel alive.   Avoid exposure to negative elements like loud noises, toxins and hazardous places. These are the few simple things you can do every day to be happy.

Start a Journal, or Vision Book …

And always remember the quote from Abraham Lincoln, he says that “Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

Life Is An Adventure

Life Is An Adventure

by | Apr 23, 2017 | Beach Life, Local News, Travel

Just west of Tampa in Pinellas County you will find Florida’s West Coast Barrier Islands. These islands have some of the most electric communities to be found among beach communities worldwide. They include Clearwater Beach, Island Estates, Sand Key, Belleair Beach, Belleair Shores, Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores, Redington Shores, North Redington Beach, Madeira Beach, Treasure Island and St. Pete Beach.

These areas are blessed with sandy beaches and natural unspoiled landscapes with clear, sparkling Gulf waters, a subtropical climate, and an abundance of glorious Florida sunshine — 365 days a year!

Pinellas County’s barrier islands are accessed via causeways and bridges and each community has its own unique flavor. Because of the mix of many different cultures, foods, music, and entertainment, life on these islands varies from one island to the next. You can find everything from a relaxing escape from the usual rat race of everyday life, to the exhilarating hip-grinding beats of the live music being played at the clubs.

The island of Sand Key is just one of the many different communities you will find here. Sand Key is mostly a residential location of townhouses, homes, and luxury high-rise condominiums. This island community does offer shopping and restaurants as well, housing two major hotels on its north end. This is a place to slow down and take the time to truly enjoy the simpler things in life. For the more adventurous, there is the Sand Key County Park, and nearby Clearwater Sailing center that provides for various recreational activities.

Clearwater Beach is another of Florida’s Barrier Islands. Clearwater Beach is 4 miles of pristine sandy beach, and supplies visitors and residents with plenty of water and beach activities including parasailing, fishing, swimming, jet-skiing and volleyball to name just a few. Clearwater’s infamous “Pier 60” has music, arts and crafts, and a daily celebration of the spectacular sunsets viewed from the pier. This community is alive with activity. They have hotels, shopping, and fine dining. Waterfront homes and condominiums are what residents can find for quality housing. A trolley is used to transport people between Clearwater beach and the mainland and also for trips to nearby Sand Key. You will find plenty of venues providing live music and you are only a short-trolley trip away from the city of Clearwater’s many music and dance nightclubs.

Madeira Beach is yet another island community just off Florida’s western coast. As a direct-entry point to the Gulf, you will find daily fishing, and cruising charters. This community has plenty of waterfront shops and fine dining restaurants. Residents are found living in various dwellings such as condos, apartments, and luxurious waterfront single-family homes.

Belleair Shores is a private community island with million-dollar waterfront homes. Access to this area’s beach is restricted to use by residents only. There are no public access beaches in Belleair Shores. This is a community for those who desire to live in an area removed from the common everyday life found in other communities.

So if you’re looking to relocate to the sunny Pinellas West Coast of Florida, and would like to move away from ordinary living, consider contacting a Tampa Bay area real estate agent to discuss the different island communities. Your real estate agent can arrange for you to tour the different Barrier Islands that populate Pinellas County Florida’s West Coast so that you can discover the community that offers the lifestyle and housing options that are right for you. Your real estate representative can assist you in finding the financing to buy your new property as well. These friendly, knowledgeable real estate agents are also a good resource for all of the information that you will need in order to make your transition to becoming a Florida resident a smooth as possible.

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