Shows
The Motivate Collective Podcast by Melanie Suzanne WilsonJodie Atkinson, speaker and author, discusses her grief as a widowSummary In this conversation, Jodie Atkinson shares her profound journey through grief following the loss of her husband. She discusses the unexpected ways grief manifested in her life, the importance of understanding and processing grief, and the need for compassionate conversations around loss. Jodie emphasises the significance of support, both in seeking help and in providing it to others and introduces the Grief Recovery Method as a valuable tool for healing. Through her personal experiences, she highlights the complexities of grief, the loneliness it can bring, and the journey of rediscovering oneself after loss.
2025-10-1951 min
In the Beginning PodcastGOLD COAST MARATHON SERIES - MIND, BODY, MARATHON - SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY EXPERTSThis episode is brought to you by Southern Cross University, naming sponsor of the 10km event at the Gold Coast Marathon. We dive into both the physical and mental prep for the Gold Coast Marathon with two experts from Southern Cross University. Dr. Gabe Fernandez, senior physiotherapist, breaks down why Achilles and calf injuries are so common and how to build strength and endurance leading up to race day. And Dr. Melanie Clark, post-doctoral research fellow, shares mental strategies for staying focused and calm during training and how to handle setbacks like injuries or bad...
2025-06-0343 min
Talking Postgres with Claire GiordanoHelping Rails developers learn Postgres with Andrew AtkinsonHave you ever achieved something remarkable because someone planted an idea in your mind? In this episode of Talking Postgres, host Claire Giordano talks with Andrew Atkinson—a Rails developer and Postgres user whose journey to becoming a published author began with a simple seed of inspiration. Andrew’s story started with an internal presentation on how to tackle tricky scalability challenges in Rails, grew into a Postgres conference talk at PGConf NYC—and ultimately evolved into his book, High Performance PostgreSQL for Rails. Also in this episode: what does cheese have to do with Postgres? Is writing a good w...
2024-11-151h 34
CYBER CONNECT PODCASTCyber security awareness, community, mental health & future talent strategies w/ Melanie OldhamWelcome to the SECURE | CYBER CONNECT Podcast with Jay Adamson and Warren Atkinson, where we’re joined by information and Cyber Security, Technology, and Talent Acquisition professionals who share their journeys, unique perspectives, and offer valuable advice and guidance.
👥 JOIN THE SECURE | CYBER CONNECT COMMUNITY: https://smart-connect-cyber.mn.co/
✅ Learn More: https://linktr.ee/securecyberconnect
In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Melanie Oldham, OBE, founder and CEO of Bob’s Business, a leader in cyber security awareness training. Recognised in the 2022 New Year’s Honours for her significant contributions to the industry, Melanie is also the founding director of the York...
2024-10-0949 min
6 Figure Podcast RebelsWhen You Give Yourself Pleasure, You Give Yourself Power With Melanie BonkJoin our 2 HUGE Facebook groups to find guests or BE a guest (for free) We have over 53,000 members👇www.facebook.com/groups/needaguestwww.facebook.com/groups/thepodcastnetwork——Want to get lifetime access to The Podcast Network Premium For free? 👇www.freepremiumupgrade.com———Want to use your own podcast to help grow your business? You're in the right place.Welcome to 6-Figure Podcast Rebels.🔥 My name is Jamie Atkinson, founder of podcastclosing.com and this show is built for 6 & 7 figure entrepreneur...
2024-08-2535 min
Customers First PodcastVault Episode: “Festivals and Art Need to Be Emotion-Evoking Experiences.” with Melanie JonesFestival Season is the best time for us to revisit our Conversation with Melanie Jones, an art curator, Disney enthusiast, and Owner of Chapter Three Art and Disney Festival of the Arts expert, as they discuss this week’s topic: “Festivals and Art Need to Be Emotion-Evoking Experiences.” In this episode of the Customer’s First Podcast, Melanie shares her passion for art and her journey in forming Chapter Three Art. It all started with her collection of Beauty and the Beast memorabilia, which sparked her admiration for artists and their ability to evoke emotions through their work. Cha...
2024-08-0635 min
Which Decade Is Tops For Pops?The Who vs Duane Eddy vs David Grant/Jaki Graham vs Bucketheads vs Melanie C vs SiaDJ Trev says:Do you love the Meh Zone? Are you all about those tunes that are "OK, I guess"? Then you need to listen to the next episode of Which Decade Is Tops For Pops - because it's A-Meeeeeh-Zing!Nick Parkhouse says:This is not an episode where everything's a 5-star a la carte entree, or everything's absolutely terrible and I've vomited into the sink - this is an episode where a waiter serves you a plate full of cream crackers.If that's whetted your appetite, then you're in for...
2024-04-151h 20
Customers First PodcastFestivals Need to Be Emotion-Evoking Experiences with Special Guest Melanie JonesJoin Tacey and her special guest, Melanie Jones, an art curator, Disney enthusiast, and Owner of Chapter Three Art and Disney Festival of the Arts expert, as they discuss this week's topic: "Festivals Need to Be Emotion-Evoking Experiences." In this episode of the Customer's First Podcast, Melanie shares her passion for art and her journey in forming Chapter Three Art. It all started with her collection of Beauty and the Beast memorabilia, which sparked her admiration for artists and their ability to evoke emotions through their work. Chapter Three Art became a platform for Melanie to...
2024-02-0635 min
GRIT: The Real Estate Growth MindsetEpisode 133: Automate and Achieve: Melanie Meier on Streamlining Real Estate ProcessesJoin Brian Charlesworth, founder of Sisu, and Melanie Meier, COO of the Atkinson Team at eXp Realty and Co-founder of Real Estate Growth Solutions, as they discuss Melanie's unique role in the Canadian Real Estate industry, sharing the intricacies of the Canadian real estate market, the transformative power of automation with Sisu, and the nuances of real estate coaching.
Melanie has a sharp focus on operations and systems, she bridges critical gaps in the industry. Her team's structured onboarding, enriched by a comprehensive LMS, provides agents with a robust foundation. Training spans a spectrum, from hands-on demos...
2023-08-2233 min
Top Producers Nation PodcastTampa Bay Real Producers Podcast EP|3 Melanie AtkinsonWelcome to the Tampa Bay Real Producers Podcast, where we highlight the top 500 agents in and around Tampa Bay and their real estate expertise. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Melanie Atkinson, a top-performing agent from Smith and Associates, as our guest. Melanie is not only a successful agent in the Tampa Bay area but also a Youtube superstar with her informative and engaging videos about the real estate industry. She will share her insights on how to effectively use digital marketing to reach and engage with clients, her experience as a top agent in the Tampa...
2023-03-1746 minWhich Decade Is Tops For Pops?Manfred Mann vs Earth Wind & Fire vs Holly Johnson vs Bryan Adams/Melanie C vs The Saturdays vs Calvin Harris/Rag ‘N’ Bone ManIn our most star-studded episode yet, we ask: did Manfred Mann miss a golden opportunity to go Hi-NRG? Earth Wind & Fire, KC & The Sunshine Band, Sly & The Family Stone: can YOU tell the difference? What were the club kids wiggling to in early 1989? How wise is it to heckle Ryan Adams? What brand of cheddar best represents The Saturdays? Does anyone else other than Nick remember Ben's Brother? Also contains Bonus Content Pop Quiz!YouTube playlist // Spotify playlist // bonus tracks & extra bitsTo join in with the voting, please submit your 1st, 2nd and 3rd...
2023-02-051h 29
Melanie Loves Tampa BayFlorida Home Builder Reveals SECRETS of New ConstructionBuilding a new construction home can be a challenging process, so I'm bringing in my friend & colleague John Skemp to spill the secrets INSIDE his $3.4M South Tampa build! This video would be helpful for anyone interested in learning more about what it takes to build your own home in Florida.
John Skemp is the President at Baylife Builders / Realtor at Smith & Associates
Email: jskemp@smithandassociates.com
Melanie Atkinson is a Tampa Bay area Realtor 🌴 with Smith & Associates in Florida. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real esta...
2023-01-3029 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayFlorida Waterfront Living Options🌴 Tampa Realtor ExplainsThere are so many different types of waterfront property here in Florida - from the beach to the lake. In this episode, I briefly explain some of the most popular options in the Tampa Bay area.
Melanie Atkinson is a Tampa Bay area Realtor 🌴 with Smith & Associates in Florida. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay area! 813.616.2427
DISCLAIMER: All con...
2023-01-1106 min
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay2023 Housing Market: 6 Things You Need to KnowWhat can real estate buyers and sellers expect in 2023? Here are 6 major things you should look out for in the 2023 housing market. Quite a few challenges I think we'll say "good-bye" to next year, but new challenges we'll say "hello" to. Without a doubt, the process of buying and selling a home has been crazy the past few years.
*Information subject to change*
Melanie Atkinson is a Tampa Bay area Realtor 🌴 with Smith & Associates in Florida. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
...
2022-12-2811 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayTampa's Restaurant Scene with My Bestie ChantelleBesides real estate, I LOVE to try out new restaurants and continue to visit my favorites. Joining me in this episode to talk about the Tampa food scene is my bestie Chantelle Boothe.
https://www.melanielovestampabay.com/agent/Chantelle_Boothe/8498883
Featured Tampa Restaurants:
https://www.1905familyofrestaurants.com/
https://www.pontetampa.com/ (Now Taking Reservations)
http://www.onswann.com/
https://www.oliviatampa.com/
https://bernssteakhouse.com/
https://www.properhousegroup.com/
https://sparkmanwharf.com/
https://roccatampa.com/
https://cenatampa.co...
2022-11-3028 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHigher Mortgage Rates Drastically Reduce Home Buying PowerDid you know the 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate has increased 120% in 2022? That's a big effing deal! In this episode, I'll be crunching some numbers and talking about the impact on the Florida housing market.
*Information subject to change*
Melanie Atkinson is a Tampa Bay area Realtor 🌴 with Smith & Associates in Florida. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay are...
2022-11-1009 min
Explore Your Day With A Soul-Stirring Full Audiobook.Night Terrors Vol. 21 by Scare Street, Harrison Shimens, Buck Weiss, Jill Benson, Jenna Dietzer, John Forrester, John Peyton Cooke, Stephen Mcquiggan, Brock Kevin Poulsen, Melanie Atkinson, Kris Ashton, Jon Douglas Rainey, Matt Bliss, Timothy G. Huguenin, variousPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/2/audible/138573to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Night Terrors Vol. 21
Series: Night Terrors: Short Horror Stories Anthology, Book 21
Author: Scare Street, Harrison Shimens, Buck Weiss, Jill Benson, Jenna Dietzer, John Forrester, John Peyton Cooke, Stephen Mcquiggan, Brock Kevin Poulsen, Melanie Atkinson, Kris Ashton, Jon Douglas Rainey, Matt Bliss, Timothy G. Huguenin, various
Narrator: Johnny Raven, Stephanie Shade
Format: mp3
Length: 7 hrs and 44 mins
Release date: 10-24-22
Ratings: 5 out of 5 stars, 10 ratings
Genres: Horror
Publisher's Summary:
Terrifying secrets from the past are revealed when a ghost hunter discovers a letter from his deceased mother. A lost...
2022-10-247h 44
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMortgage Rates Escalate Monthly Payments | What About Home Prices?Did you know the 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate has increased 54% in 2022? That's a big effing deal! In this episode, I'll be crunching some numbers and talking about the impact on the Florida housing market.
Melanie Atkinson is a Tampa Bay area Realtor 🌴 with Smith & Associates in Florida. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay area! 813.616.2427
DISCLAIMER: All content pro...
2022-10-2310 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHow to Research Florida Schools | Tampa Mom's BEST TipsFor parents, I know researching school districts and figuring out the best education options for your children can be challenging. While I'm a Realtor by profession and am asked constantly about schools, I'm also a mother of three children who all went through the Florida education system and have personal experience with public, private and magnet schools. Due to professional & ethical guidelines, real estate agents are not supposed to directly advise clients on school districts or specific schools. That's why I've put together this guide for parents / guardians to navigate and research on your own. Some of this information...
2022-09-2511 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayThe Truth About Florida's Housing Market | Home Prices, Inventory & DemandWhat's REALLY happening on the ground level for Florida real estate? Sure, the housing market was on fire the last couple years, but what about now and moving forward to 2023? Nobody thought the crazy prices and demand would be sustainable long term here in the Tampa Bay area. Let's get real and chat about what I'm seeing in terms of price decreases, inventory, and demand. I also touch on why I dislike buzzwords like "housing crash."
Melanie Atkinson is a Tampa Bay area Realtor 🌴 with Smith & Associates in Florida. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and hel...
2022-09-1309 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayState of the Housing Market 2022 | Honest Realtor Confessions CA vs TX vs FLThe past few years, this housing market has been absolutely insane with sky high prices, bidding wars, and rollercoaster mortgage rates. Is the real estate market due for a crash? Will anyone ever be able to afford a home? Three powerhouse real estate agents in the craziest housing markets across America break it all down here.
Representing the Lone Star State Texas - agent Levi Lascsak
🤠 https://livingindallastx.com/
For the Golden State California - agent Jeb Smith
Coldwell Banker Realty (Huntington Beach / Orange County Realtor)
DRE 01407449
https://www.jebsmith.net/
2022-08-2158 min
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay1st Time Homebuyer Tips You (Probably) Haven't Heard YetBeing a first time home buyer is a very exciting, but stressful time. There are a ton of videos out there already about how to buy a house, but I wanted to share my very best tips as a veteran Florida real estate agent that you (probably) haven't heard yet. We'll be going over selecting the right neighborhood, figuring out your monthly housing budget, types of homes & more.
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates.
She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
...
2022-06-2112 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWhat's Behind Florida's Property Insurance Crisis? State Sen. Jeff Brandes on Special SessionHave you been dealing with homeowners' insurance sticker shock or get a notice that your policy is canceled? There's a LOT to know about the current property insurance crisis here in Florida. Joining me for this episode is State Senator Jeff Brandes (R) District 24 to discuss what's behind our insurance industry problems and possible solutions.
https://flsenate.gov/senators/s24
https://www.facebook.com/SenatorBrandes
https://twitter.com/JeffreyBrandes
*Melanie Loves Tampa Bay does not make political endorsements
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates.
Sh...
2022-06-0840 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWhy You Should IGNORE a Home's Property Tax History | Florida Realtor ExplainsWhen you’re searching for Florida homes online, have you ever wondered why two similar properties have such different property taxes? I’ll be explaining why you should NOT rely on a home’s property tax history to estimate what yours would be on the same home. We’re going to go over Florida’s Homestead Exemption, the Save Our Homes 3% Cap, portability, other types of property tax exemptions in the Sunshine State, ad valorem vs. non-ad valorem, and how property tax rates are calculated. You’ll definitely want to tune into this episode if you’re a new home buyer in...
2022-06-0209 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWhy Are 'Pending' Homes For Sale Again? | Real Estate Contracts ExplainedIn this red hot housing market of Tampa, Florida homes do NOT last very long once they go up for sale. But what about all those homes that show as 'pending' for a while, then pop back up 'for sale'? Let's go over some of the common reasons why residential real estate contracts fall through and how you, as a buyer, can use that information to *your* advantage. I'll also explain the differences between As-Is and Repairs contracts and why the As-Is contract became the standard in Florida.
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith...
2022-05-0111 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayLiving in Florida (Now That Everyone's Moving Here) 🌴 Cost of Living, Traffic, WeatherWhat is it really like to live in the state of Florida now that it's such a popular moving destination? So much has changed over the past few years in terms of cost of living, the housing market, Tampa Bay area neighborhoods, traffic, and population demographics. Florida still does not have state income tax, but there have been fluctuations in homeowners insurance as well as an increase in the taxable value of homes in regard to property tax. We'll also (once again) touch on elements of weather and Florida native wildlife.
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area...
2022-04-1011 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayIs Renting a Home the New American Dream? Realtor Reacts to 60 Minutes PieceRent... the American Dream? 60 Minutes recently did a report on the housing market and the increase of rental prices around the country. In 2021, the Tampa Bay area experienced about a 25% spike in both home and rent prices. The high demand and lack of inventory is driving these costs up and consequently - pricing buyers out. In the 60 Minutes piece, the CEO of Tricon Residential (company buying single-family homes to use as rentals) stated that they are allowing people to 'rent' the American dream instead of owning. I looked at home sales in the community of Brandon, Florida to find...
2022-03-2312 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayIs Tampa a Cash Buyers Only Market? Florida Realtor Breaks Down Home SalesTo many buyers searching for the perfect home in the Tampa Bay area, it might seem like cash buyers & investors are swooping in to get all of the local inventory - pushing out everyone with financing offers. But is this really true? In this episode, I analyze & compare real home sales numbers to get an accurate picture on which types of buyers are making it to the closing table. And the breakdown may surprise you... Plus, be sure to watch toward the end to get a few of my power tips on navigating this competitive real estate market.
2022-02-0615 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayTampa Named Zillow's #1 Housing Market for 2022 | Florida Realtor ReactsZillow just named the Tampa metro as the #1 hottest housing market for 2022. Not surprisingly, Florida cities dominated much of the ranking list for the second year in a row along with North Carolina and Texas. According to Zillow, the housing market overall is expected to remain hot, maintaining many of the same sales trends as 2021. As a Tampa Realtor who's lived and worked in the Tampa Bay area for decades, I wanted to weigh in on this news and share insight on what's coming in the new year for buyers & sellers.
https://www.zillow.com/research/zillow-2022...
2022-01-0513 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMillion Dollar Condos on the Horizon | Tampa, Florida Luxury Real EstateAs the Tampa Bay area grows, there are quite a few new condo developments that will be available to new residents in the upcoming years. One of my favorite things about working for Smith & Associates is that we're the exclusive sales brokerage for so many of these luxury projects.
Fair warning: this is *not* an episode for those seeking out average priced housing. All of these condominium projects have hefty price tags targeted toward the high-end home buyer. Real estate development companies are focused mainly on downtown St. Petersburg, downtown Tampa, and South Tampa.
You...
2022-01-0415 min
Come Follow Me for UsMy Full Interview with Brittany Atkinson from May 2020This podcast is my interview with Brittany Atkinson who passed away on Christmas morning 2021. Back in May 2020, I interviewed many people about ways that people served them and their families during differing trials. I only used pieces of everyone's interviews for those two podcasts, (Season 2 Episodes 22 &23). This podcast is my full interview with Brittany Atkinson, some of which did not air on that original podcast. This episode also includes Brittany singing a song that we used at her funeral.
2022-01-0339 min
The Flipping 50 ShowHow an Intermittent Fasting Lifestyle and Eating Clean WorkIs the intermittent fasting lifestyle attractive to you? If you’re curious about it, new to it, or a raving fan of it, you’ll want to listen to this episode with author Gin Stephens. In the last few years the intermittent fasting lifestyle has caught the attention of all ages, both genders, health practitioners as well as the media. Used correctly under the right circumstances it can boost longevity, support better fat burning, and natural detox. Used inappropriately under the wrong circumstances it could backfire. How to know the difference? Listen in as we discuss the scen...
2022-01-0339 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayFlorida Insurance 2022: Major Changes to Homeowners & Flood PoliciesTampa Bay area insurance agent Maria Rodriguez, with Rip Weachter Insurance Agency, joins me to talk about Florida insurance changes to know about going into 2022. She explains how insurance carriers have updated the methodology used to calculate flood risk and premiums. You'll want to tune into this episode if you're shopping for a new policy or already have homeowners & flood insurance because you *will* be affected. Maria also explains how flood zones and the age of a home's roof come into play.
Contact Maria Rodriguez for your insurance needs within the state of Florida
maria@weachterinsurance.c...
2021-12-2728 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayCan You Afford to Buy a House in 2022? 🏠 Mortgage & Interest Rate Changes to Know AboutWith home prices on the rise, can you even afford to buy a home in 2022? In this episode, Melanie is joined by Patrick Storch with The Mortgage Firm Tampa to discuss mortgage changes you need to know about, interest rates, and the challenging housing market here in Florida. (Spoiler Alert: conventional loan limits have increased to $625,000 from the previous $548,250) You'll definitely want to tune in if you plan to house hunt over the next year - we're also sharing helpful tips on getting a home loan, creative financing, and what you can do to increase your chances of getting o...
2021-11-1827 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving to Florida 2022 🏡 What You Need to Know About Home BuyingWith a crazy nationwide housing market, the frenzy seems particularly high here in Tampa, Florida. If you're considering a move to Florida in 2022, or planning to buy a home - check out this update from experienced real estate agent Melanie Atkinson, who works in the Tampa Bay area. She'll also talk about new construction options and Realtor tips for buyers on actually getting your offers accepted in order to secure a house.
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates.
She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell...
2021-11-0916 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHottest Tampa, Florida Neighborhoods for Home BuyersIt can be difficult to figure out where to buy a house when you don't know the Tampa Bay area, so I'm revealing the most popular neighborhoods for my own clients. Giving advice as to where to move can be tricky for me as a Realtor, because we have professional and ethical guidelines in place to discourage steering our clients to certain areas. People ask all the time, "Where are the good neighborhoods?" but it's not one I can answer directly. Not only for ethical reasons, but because everyone has their own definition of what a 'good' neighborhood is.
2021-09-1212 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayExplore Dunedin & Safety Harbor | Tampa, Florida NeighborhoodsTwo of my favorite small cities here in the Tampa Bay area are Dunedin and Safety Harbor - wonderful places to live and visit.
Dunedin and Safety Harbor are waterfront communities with quaint, bustling downtown areas, plenty of fun events, things to do, places to eat and drink. Dunedin is located north of Clearwater and the beaches on the west side of the peninsula. Safety Harbor is located on the east side of the peninsula at the top of Tampa Bay. Dunedin isn't too far from Honeymoon Island (a favorite local beach) as well as easy access t...
2021-08-1508 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayIs Tampa an Ugly Place to Live? 🌴 The TRUTH About FloridaWhite powder beaches, palm trees, luxurious new houses, manicured golf courses, and waterfront parks. There are so many gorgeous things to list in the Tampa Bay area, but everywhere can't be pretty - right? Is it possible that parts of Tampa are actually UGLY? Recently, a home buying client flat out told me, "It's ugly here." At first it kind of felt like she was calling one of my kids ugly, but then I thought about it and realized she was right. Every city has some not-so-glamorous parts, but with so many people looking to move to Florida I...
2021-07-2607 min
The Chronic ComebackHow Melanie Atkinson Used Naturopathy and Yoga to Recover from Debilitating Eczema, Asthma, and Food AllergiesIn this episode, we have Melanie AtkinsonMelanie suffered from debilitating eczema, asthma and allergies. Stuck in the medical model she tried every treatment under the sun but things only got worse. She was perpetually exhausted and in deep despair at numerous points in her teens. It was only when she visited a Naturopathic Nutritionist on a yoga retreat at age 27 that she truly understood why her body was so sick and what to do about it. This inspired her to study Nutritional Healing and Naturopathy, and began working deeply on her health through dietary ch...
2021-07-0346 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayTampa Bay 2021 Guide | Road, Commercial, Residential Projects You Need to Know AboutWhile it may have felt like everything shut down in 2020, there's lots of building and development in the Tampa Bay area. In this episode, I want to update you on some of the most exciting residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.
Midtown Tampa
https://midtowntampa.com/
Water Street Tampa
https://waterstreettampa.com/
St. Pete Pier
https://stpetepier.org/
Selmon Expressway Extension
https://www.selmonextension.com/
FDOT Projects
https://www.fdottampabay.com/projects/all
Citrus Park Drive Extension
https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/library/hills...
2021-05-1610 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayFlorida Realtors Spill the TRUTH About Living in Tampa | Neighborhoods, Schools, Traffic, WeatherWith the current state of the housing market, busy real estate agents must work together in order to best serve our clients. In this episode, I'm introducing you to my Smith & Associate colleagues and give them the opportunity to share their insight on what it's like to move to Florida and live in the Tampa Bay area. We talk everything from popular neighborhoods, weather, school districts, traffic, family life, and best local places for fun and food.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
0:59 Meet Chantelle
2:02 Meet Dale
3:29 Meet Karen
4:15 Moving & Packing Tips
5:29 Finding a Neighborhood
2021-05-0333 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving to Florida 🏡 How Buyers Stand a Chance in a Crazy Real Estate MarketBy now you've probably heard about the low inventory real estate situation here in the Tampa Bay area, and I'm sharing my advice for how to best navigate this housing market. As of March 2021, Hillsborough County only has three weeks of single family home inventory, when a balanced housing market would have about six months worth of homes available.
Take a close look at your finances, because you might have to get creative. It is very normal for a buyer right now to guarantee to pay a certain amount over appraised value. In order to win that c...
2021-03-0415 min
Inside Elm StreetInside Elm Street with Ms.AtkinsonMs.Atkinson is a P.E. teacher and she has been here for a long time.
2021-01-0704 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayAnswering YOUR Questions ❓ #3 Schools, Property Taxes, Homestead Exemption, Singles SceneReading your comments and answering questions in the 3rd edition of this series! Leave questions you have down below in the comment section and they may be answered in future episodes.
Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:00 Pools & Property Value
1:55 NYC to Jacksonville
2:18 Homestead Exemption
3:54 Property Taxes
5:13 CDD & HOA Fees
6:43 School Districts
8:36 Singles Scene
9:17 Waves
9:58 Townhome Construction
10:56 RI to FL
Florida Department of Education resource (researching school districts)
http://www.fldoe.org/accountability/accountability-reporting/school-grades/
https://www.greatschools.org/
https://www.niche...
2020-12-1612 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving to Florida 2021 🏡 What You Need to KnowPlanning to move to Florida in 2021? Here are some important updates for anyone considering a relocation to the Sunshine State. This episode will be building on information shared in a previous video about moving to Florida in 2020, so check that one out if you haven't seen it yet.
2020 has been a game changer for many of us, and it's been fascinating from a real estate perspective. We have seen record sales months, rock bottom interest rates, low inventory, multiple offer situations, and buyers buying sight unseen.
Prices in Florida have gone up this year - a lot...
2020-11-3023 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHow to Buy a House Sight Unseen | BEST REALTOR TIPSIt's hard to imagine buying a house without ever seeing it in person until after closing, but it's happening now more than ever. For much of 2020, there have been travel restrictions in place so house hunting has largely gone virtual. If you wait to fly down to see a home in person, it may already be gone so buying sight unseen has become a common practice. So how can you do it successfully and what are the risks? In this episode of Melanie Loves Tampa Bay, I'm sharing my best tips and advice.
For all of you o...
2020-11-0110 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving from California to Florida? 🌴 Here's What You Need to KnowAre you researching moving from California to Florida? My clients Bill & Dotty were longtime California residents who decided to make the change and spend their retirement years here in the Tampa, Florida area. They share insight and experiences that hopefully will be helpful to anyone looking into the process.
Here are the topics we touched on during our conversation:
0:00 Intro
0:45 Background as CA residents
1:30 Florida Decision
3:35 Florida Misconceptions
5:35 Choosing a Location
6:06 Dunedin, Florida
7:17 Florida Homes
9:43 Swimming Pools
11:41 Taxes
14:19 Gas & Groceries
14:45 Vehicle Registration
19:31 Florida Residency
20:21 W...
2020-10-1247 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHousing Market: What Will Happen to Home Prices? 🏡 Realtor ExplainsAs if 2020 couldn't get any weirder, we've been dealing with an insane housing market here in the Tampa Bay area for months along with other parts of the country.
What the heck is going on and how do you figure out if now is the right time to buy a home?
Do you take advantage of the ridiculously low interest rates or do you wait until there's more inventory?
Will those interest rates still be low once there is more inventory?
What about another housing market crash?
What if I buy now and...
2020-08-3111 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayLuxury Real Estate Guide 🏙️ Tampa, FloridaThe Tampa Bay area is seeing an influx of luxury home buyers coming from out of state. If you're seeking high end real estate in Florida, I've put together a guide for our area to help you. We have tons of coastline, two major cities, three professional sports teams, the award-winning Tampa International Airport, a great local food scene, and enough land for you to have room to breathe.
So what does the luxury housing market look like in Tampa? You can choose whether you want a Gulf front home with a sandy beach in your backyard, a...
2020-08-2409 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayBuying New Construction Homes in Florida 🏡 Things You Should KnowNew construction homes are on fire this year in the Tampa Bay area. Neighborhoods in Odessa, Wesley Chapel, and Riverview can hardly keep up with the demand. With the influx of people wanting to be in Florida, combined with low interest rates and affordable prices - it's easy to understand why these builders have had record-breaking months.
This episode is for all of you out there looking to buy new construction in the coming months.
Want to skip ahead? Here are the topics discussed:
0:00 Intro
0:43 Builder Incentives
1:49 Base Home Prices
2:24 Working wi...
2020-07-2808 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWesley Chapel: What You Need to Know 🌴 Pasco County, FloridaWesley Chapel is a popular community outside Tampa, Florida that I get asked about all the time. Let’s dive into this area from new construction home builders, home prices, where exactly it’s located in Pasco County, flood zones, schools, and things to do.
Want to skip ahead? Here are the topics discussed:
0:00 Intro
0:45 New Construction Homes
1:55 Crystal Lagoon @ Epperson
2:45 CDD Fees
4:03 Affordable Home Prices
4:35 Builder Competition
5:23 Wesley Chapel Location
6:26 Tampa Bay Commute
7:08 Flood Zone?
7:35 Things to Do
9:45 School District
10:12 Wesley Chapel Wrap Up
2020-06-2410 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving to Tampa, Florida 🌴 What It's REALLY LikeThinking about moving to Florida? While I've lived in the Tampa Bay area for two decades, my boyfriend Todd has lived in quite a few different cities. He relocated to Tampa in 2017 and joins me in this episode to share his perspective on how Tampa compares to other places in the U.S.
Want to skip ahead? Here are the topics we touched on:
0:00 Intro
0:55 Why choose Tampa?
1:35 Florida offers year round outdoor living
2:17 Traffic & commuting in Tampa
3:35 Lower cost of living in Florida? State income tax, housing options, auto insurance
4:39 H...
2020-06-0912 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHow to Sell Your Home While Buying Another House 🏠 Realtor Advice"Help! I have to sell my current house before I buy another one. Where do I start?" This is a question I get all the time, so get ready for all my best advice.
TIP #1 - UNDERSTAND YOUR FINANCES
There's a difference between NEEDING to sell your current home in order to qualify for the loan on your next house and WANTING to sell your current home. If you fall into the category of wanting to sell, you have more freedom to make offers on listings because you won't have as many contingencies attached, which...
2020-05-2608 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayFlorida Real Estate 🏖️ European Buyer Guide ft. Annette Reeve / Mayfair Int'l RealtyReal estate in the U.S. works much differently compared to other countries. In this #socialdistancing episode, I talk with Annette Reeve / Mayfair International Realty in London about European / UK residents buying homes in Florida.
There's a lot to know when you purchase international property. Annette, who works with agents and brokers around the world, is a great resource for information.
If you want to skip ahead to specific topics, here are timestamps:
1:30 UK buying process vs. US
6:51 Where UK buyers want to purchase homes
10:23 Rental & vacation homes
12:25 Financing a...
2020-04-2426 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayNew Florida Realtor 🏠 Door Knocking for 8 Hours & Flipping a $10K House39 closings, 10 pending properties, door knocking for 8 hours a day, and flipping a $10,000 house - Pensacola real estate agent John Cho shares his highs and lows from the first year as a Realtor.
Great conversation and here's timestamps if you want to skip ahead:
0:56 Getting started in real estate
7:08 Is young age a disadvantage?
8:38 New vs. veteran agents
9:55 Team culture & mentorships
11:30 Door knocking for leads
17:45 Flipping homes
20:50 Finding investment properties
22:30 What's Pensacola, FL like?
26:10 Average home prices in Pensacola
John Cho / Realtor - Pensacola, FL area
...
2020-04-1729 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayReal Estate 🗽 NYC vs FLORIDA ☀️ with Michael Holt🗽 NYC vs FL ☀️ Real estate chat comparing the New York City metro to the Tampa Bay area in Florida with Licensed Broker Associate Michael Holt, who works in both locations. Michael fills us in on the unique NYC market and what it's like to buy / sell there. We also chat about the lifestyle and cost differences, and a current development project in Sarasota. Thanks to Michael for joining me!
Michael Holt / Licensed Broker Associate / The Holt Team
mholt@halstead.com
Cell: 917.407.0287
www.holtsnewyork.com
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelHoltNYC
Facebook https://www...
2020-04-0730 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWill Mortgage Rates Ever Drop to 0%? 🏡 Should You Refinance Your Home?Mortgage rates are all over the place right now, as the Federal Reserve sharply cut interest rates and announced buying of mortgage-backed securities. How low can mortgage interest rates go? Melanie talks with David Donaldson, Branch Manager with VanDyk Mortgage, about what we can expect and answers some questions that popped up this week. Will mortgage interest rates ever come close to 0%? Should homeowners refinance their mortgage? Is now a good time to buy a home?
The Donaldson Team
David Donaldson / Branch Manager
ddonaldson@vandykmortgage.com
NMLS#506528 | FL#LO10267
Office: 813.230.3433 | Cell: 813.230.3433
teamdonaldson.va...
2020-03-2829 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayFlorida Insurance: What You Need to Know 💵 Homeowners, Flood, Auto, Renters, UmbrellaTampa Bay area insurance agent Maria Rodriguez, with Rip Weachter Insurance Agency, joins me to talk about Florida insurance. She explains homeowners, flood, auto, renters, and umbrella insurance policies and why they're important to protect yourself and your property. We also discuss what type of insurance you need in the event of a hurricane or severe weather.
Want to skip ahead to a specific topic? Here's what we covered:
0:39 Homeowners insurance
1:45 Florida weather / hurricanes
3:50 Age of roof and how it affects homeowners insurance rate
7:05 Wind mitigation process
8:05 New construction
10:55 Older homes
2020-03-0333 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayAnswering YOUR Questions ❓ #2 Relocating to Tampa, Snakeskin Fashion, Porta Potties!?Answering your questions and responding to comments left on my channel - everything from relocating to the Tampa Bay area, keeping animals in your backyard, love bugs causing car damage, Midtown Tampa, to the supply of crocodile and snakeskin themed clothing!? Meanwhile, Tucker doesn't want to cooperate with this video shoot. This is going to be a regular video series, so keep 'em coming!
If you're not looking to buy / sell a home, the best way to reach out to me with specific questions is by leaving a comment on a video here on YouTube (versus DMs or...
2020-02-1811 min
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay4 New Home Communities Outside Tampa 🏠 Pasco CountySo many of my buyers are looking for new construction in the Tampa Bay area and there are lots of housing options to choose from, but I want to share four popular communities that I show often in Pasco County, just north of Tampa.
Three of these developments are in Odessa, and one is in nearby Land O' Lakes. State Road 54 is the main road that leads into all of the neighborhoods. Odessa is farther west compared to Wesley Chapel, so it's closer to the beach.
If you work in Downtown Tampa, MacDill Air Force Ba...
2020-02-0513 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHome Selling Makeover 🏠 Home Staging [Before & After]We're giving one of my listings a home makeover by bringing in a home stager [before & after pics], plus I'm sharing some of my best home selling tips.
This vacant Tampa villa went pending in just two days!
We'll be getting into the importance of creating an identity for each room in a house, what impact rooms are, adding hardware to kitchen cabinets, making sure floors are very clean, and how curtains / window treatments make such a difference in a space.
Home staging by Tracy Bowers of Upstage, Inc. 813.727.3311 / tracy@upstageinc.com
NOT...
2019-12-1008 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving to Florida in 2020? What You Need to KnowSo you want to move to Florida in 2020? This is your last cold winter, right? There's a lot to know about our great state, and I want to share information about establishing residency, buying vs. renting and the Tampa Bay area specifically.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO MOVE TO FLORIDA?
If you're planning to move to Florida part-time, you'll want to be diligent in following the rules to establish residency in this state. Consult an attorney if your situation is more complicated. Say, you own a home in another state and plan on buying another o...
2019-11-2510 min
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay2019 Holiday Guide 🎄 Things To Do in Tampa | MELANIE ❤️ TAMPA BAYWe may not have a white Christmas, but there is still plenty to do in the Tampa Bay area over the holiday season. Here are some great family-friendly holiday events you won't want to miss if you're a resident or just visiting Florida!
Enchant - St. Petersburg - Tropicana Field
November 22 - December 29
https://stpete.enchantchristmas.com/stpete
Busch Gardens Christmas Town - Tampa
November 16 - January 6
https://buschgardens.com/tampa/events/christmas-town/
Christmas in the Wild - Zoo Tampa
November 29, 30 | December 6-7, 13...
2019-11-1210 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayRelocating to MacDill AFB? Tampa Neighborhoods + Commute Times GuideAre you relocating to Tampa to work out of MacDill Air Force Base and need a starter guide to the Tampa Bay area? That's what this episode is for! MacDill Air Force Base is located at the southern end of the Tampa peninsula, about 4 miles south of Downtown Tampa. MacDill AFB is not only an Air Mobility Command (AMC) base, but headquarters for the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).
We have a large military presence here as well as lots of civilians who work at the base. Sometimes you...
2019-10-2915 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayAnswering YOUR Questions ❓ #1 Weather, Snakes, Public Transportation | MELANIE ❤️ TAMPA BAYAnswering your questions and responding to comments left on my channel - everything from weather to public transportation to snakes. Meanwhile, my puppy Tucker does his best to be a huge distraction. This is going to be a regular video series, so keep 'em coming!
If you're not looking to buy / sell a home, the best way to reach out to me with specific questions is by leaving a comment on a YouTube video (versus DMs or emails). This way, I'm able to see all of them in one place and respond as quickly as I can. P...
2019-10-1514 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BaySouth Tampa 🌴 One of Tampa's Most Popular Areas | FLORIDA LIVINGOne of the most popular Tampa Bay areas is definitely South Tampa, so let's take a closer look to see if it's for you!
Generally when people are talking about South Tampa, they're referring to the peninsula that juts down into Tampa Bay with the northern boundary of South Tampa being State Road 60 (Kennedy Boulevard) and the southern boundary being MacDill Air Force Base.
So why do so many want to live in South Tampa?
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
South Tampa is close to two large commercial areas - the Westshore District n...
2019-09-2412 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayReality Check ✅ What New Homeowners Should Know (& Meet My New Puppy) | MELANIE ❤️ TAMPA BAYBuying a home is a very exciting process, especially when it's your first house! But what happens when you move in and life isn't exactly what you imagined? Let's talk about some of the challenges that can overwhelm new home buyers right after closing that takes the fun away of owning your own place.
Featuring my new puppy Tucker, a smooth coat Brussels Griffon - otherwise known as the 'Petit Brabancon.'
Warning: Your new house might be really dirty. In Florida, sellers are not legally required to have the property professionally cleaned when they...
2019-09-1008 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHow to Pronounce Tampa Bay Area Places | MELANIE ❤️ TAMPA BAYThere are some names of cities and places around the Tampa Bay area that are just really difficult to pronounce. Some are really long and complicated. So here are a few of the trickiest and how to say the names just like a local.
Lutz
St. Pete - some folks use the wrong abbreviation for St. Petersburg and refer to it as "St. Petes"
Ybor City
Dunedin
Thonotosassa
Wimauma
Kissimmee
Masaryktown
Homosassa
Weeki Wachee
Amalie Arena (rhymes with family...
2019-08-2702 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWhy Everybody Wants to Live in Downtown St. PetersburgDowntown St. Pete is one of the most coveted areas to move to in the Tampa Bay area. So why does everyone want to move there and how much does it cost to live there?
Honestly, it's just a really cool and beautiful place to live. Downtown St. Petersburg truly does have it all - the whole bay front is lined with gorgeous parks that host different festivals and events throughout the year. It's the perfect place for a long walk with your pet, a bike ride, or just to sit and enjoy the water view. It's a...
2019-08-1308 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWhat Are CDD Fees? CDD vs HOA 🏡 Buying in Florida FAQIf you're looking at Florida homes for the first time, you're probably wondering what the heck a CDD fee is. How is it different from an HOA? CDD stands for "Community Development District." It's main purpose is to plan, finance, construct, and operate community-wide infrastructure and amenities for residents to enjoy.
http://www.ccfj.net/FS190CDD.html#190.012
The neighborhood developer takes out a bond to get access to the money to create all of this infrastructure - the bond is paid back by residents over periods typically 20, 25, or 30 years.
How do residents...
2019-07-3004 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayHome Partners of America 🏡 Rent to Own Homes Program ExplainedFinding a home that's a lease with an option to buy (rent to own) can be extremely difficult - close to impossible in popular areas. However, leasing while you get to know your new city, repair your credit or save up some money for a larger down payment may be your best option. Let's talk about a lease-purchase program called Home Partners of America.
While I am not affiliated with this company in any way, I do feel the program offers a valuable option for those who qualify so I want to share some details.
*C...
2019-07-1007 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving to Florida? Guide for New Residents 🌴 DMV, Car Registration, Retiring, Pets, SunPassLots of you out there are planning to move to Florida or purchase a second home here. If you're looking to establish residency in the Sunshine State, here are some practical tips. (Yes, you do have to go to the DMV)
*Disclosure: I am a Realtor, so I help people buy and sell houses. I am not an attorney or accountant. These matters can be complicated, so if you have any questions please consult a licensed professional.*
ESTABLISHING FLORIDA RESIDENCY
You are considered a Floridian when your true, fixed, and permanent home is in...
2019-06-2709 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving to a New City: Should You Rent Before Buying a House? | MELANIE ❤️ TAMPA BAY You've made the major decision to move to a new city that you don't know very much about. You are excited about your transition, but have to figure out the right place to live. Should you rent before you buy? There's no one answer to this common question, so I'm breaking down both sides to help you find your answer.
WHAT'S YOUR TIME FRAME FOR MOVING?
If you're being relocated for a job, your employer may need you to move within a few months - not a lot of time to get to know an a...
2019-05-2808 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMoving? 🏠 How to Find + Research Safe Neighborhoods in Your New City | MELANIE ❤️ TAMPA BAYThe words "safe neighborhood" are included in just about every text or email I get from people looking to move. It's no surprise that you want to live in an area you consider safe, but everyone has a different definition of what feels safe to them. This is why I wanted to share some tools to help you navigate this issue.
Real estate agents are not supposed to share their views on the safety of various neighborhoods, as it's against our code of ethics and violates the Fair Housing Act. Answering questions based on what we consider...
2019-05-1405 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayBuying a Beach Vacation Rental Property: 5 Things You Need to Know from a RealtorHave you been dreaming about a beachfront vacation home? One that you get to enjoy, but also pays for itself with rental income?
Are you ready to take the plunge, but not sure where to start here in the Tampa Bay area? I'm here to share some tips on buying a property at the beach.
#1 LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION
It's the first rule in real estate for a reason, and very much applies to vacation rentals. There are two things to consider when evaluating locations. What type of location do you want for your o...
2019-04-3007 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWorst Things About Living in Florida 🌴 Bugs, Severe Weather, Crazy NewsPreviously, I've highlighted mostly the good things about living in Florida and the Tampa Bay area. It's in my nature to do so, because I love these areas but no state or city is perfect so... Let's talk about the worst aspects about living in Florida.
Why would I try to talk you out of moving to Florida? Because you need to relocate here with realistic expectations and with eyes wide open.
My goal is that the people who choose to move here LOVE IT.
BUGS & CREEPY CRAWLIES
POLITICS
B...
2019-04-1709 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayPsychology Behind Home Pricing 🏠 $399,900 or $400,000? | Realtor TalkWhen it comes to items in the grocery store, pricing something at 99 cents is better than $1, but is the same thing true for pricing your house?
Recently, I read an interesting article on the Florida Realtor's website about the psychology of home pricing based on information presented by Robert McTague.
https://www.floridarealtors.org/NewsAndEvents/article.cfm?id=378172
https://www.inman.com/2015/04/17/the-psychology-of-pricing-a-real-estate-property/
This is a topic that's always fascinated me, so I wanted to share this with you and break down what it means.
WHAT ABOUT THOSE 9'S?
...
2019-04-0303 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayLiving in Tampa / St. Petersburg 🌴 Things To Do, Job Opportunities, Where to LiveMoving to Tampa / St. Petersburg? Sharing lots of helpful information from things to do, where to live, cost of living, job opportunities, and more.
WHERE TO LIVE
Primary counties are Hillsborough (Tampa) and Pinellas (St. Petersburg / beaches). If you're considering a move here and prefer urban areas - you can choose between downtown Tampa and downtown St. Petersburg. Housing ranges from luxury high rise condos to historic bungalows.
Other communities throughout the area include Tarpon Springs, Dunedin, Safety Harbor, Hyde Park Village, Seminole Heights, and Ybor City.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
...
2019-03-2710 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayRealtor Secrets 🏠 What Buyers REALLY Think of Your HouseDuring my real estate career I've shown thousands of houses, and there's one thing that's true for almost all buyers: they make observations on your home as soon as they walk in and some of them are not so nice.
Buyers need to connect with your home in a personal way in order to want to purchase it. They use all five of their senses and will often verbalize what they're thinking. Here are some of the most common (brutally honest) observations that I hear.
SMELLS
Whether it's food, cigarettes, or even overly...
2019-03-1907 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMortgage Tips for First Time Home Buyers: Why Credit Score MattersGetting mortgage tips for first time home buyers and talking credit with Patrick Storch of The Mortgage Firm Tampa.
So you've just graduated from college, got a great job, and live in a city you want to stay in... What are your first steps to buying a home in terms of getting a mortgage?
According to Patrick, recent college grads may be able to step into home ownership sooner than they think and qualify for a mortgage. In some instances, education can substitute for being on the job for a few years.
Credit sc...
2019-02-2718 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayLiving in Florida: What's it REALLY Like? (Cost of Living, Weather, Traffic, Alligators, Perks)What is it really like to live in the state of Florida? This episode is focused on the perks and reality of the Sunshine State.
If you don't live here or have never visited, it's easy to create your own version of Florida and I get all sorts of questions.
WHAT'S THE DEAL WITH ALLIGATORS?
Alligators are a big part of our world here in Florida, and they've been here for a lot longer than us people have. For the most part, they stay away from humans. Alligators migrate, so a pond or...
2019-02-0609 min
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay2019 Home Prices: Are We in a Balanced Housing Market?What if the housing market isn't a seller's market or a buyer's market?
Does that mean we're headed into a balanced housing market?
Lately I've been asked about another possible housing bubble. We have enjoyed a very healthy and fast-paced market for several years now in Florida.
Prices are much higher than they were when this positive trend started, and that worries people because they naturally wonder how high prices can go before they start to fall.
Well, the short answer to that question is NO.
I don't think...
2019-01-3005 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayWhat is the Gasparilla Pirate Festival + Parade ??? 🏴☠️ Tampa TraditionsFor anyone who doesn't live in Tampa, Gasparilla can be a real head scratcher - what is it? Mid-January, us Tampa Bay residents are getting our beads ready.
So what is Gasparilla?
Gasparilla Pirate Festival was inspired by the legend of Jose Gaspar, who supposedly was a Spanish Naval officer-turned-pirate back in the late 18th century and early 19th century who plundered the waters of the West Coast of Florida.
Now, there is no actual evidence that this really happened, but nobody cares about that little detail.
Back in 1904, the story...
2019-01-1804 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayTampa Bay Woman of the Year - Helping Local FamiliesHello friends,
Very excited to announce that I’m running as a candidate for the Westchase Charitable Foundation Tampa Bay Woman of the Year!
The Westchase Charitable Foundation is a non-profit, public charity started in 2004. It relies on fundraising to support families who have either children or parents battling a serious illness or assisting people in the community and beyond who are faced with a family tragedy.
Since its inception, the Westchase Charitable Foundation has provided over $500,000 in direct financial grants to families around the Tampa Bay area. Even though the name references Wes...
2019-01-1505 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayMortgage Interest Rates Explained: A Brief History 🏠 Should You Buy a Home?Let's dive into home mortgage interest rates, as I've been getting a lot of questions about this topic. We hear on the news all about rising rates and wonder how that will affect the housing market.
Well, I wish I could whip out a crystal ball and tell you exactly what will happen with rates and the market, but that's just not possible.
Let's break down data showing you mortgage interest rates from a historical perspective, then show you what your money can buy.
This chart is from Freddie Mac, showing the annual average mortgage rate for fixed-rate loans since 1972...
2018-12-1807 min
She Means Fitness Business3 Reasons You Should Write that Fitness Book NowIs it time for you to write a fitness book? How would you like to charge more for services? Or get more media exposure? And have an easy NOT sleazy way to attract customers who really want your services? My guest today has the answers to how to do all three of those. Oh, and by the way, there are way more than three reasons to write your fitness book. Bonus! If you’ve already got a book don’t click away just yet. Are you promoting it in...
2018-11-2731 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayBuilding New Construction Homes 🏠 How to Get Financing / LoansMany of you may be looking to build that dream home, but you're gonna need to pay for it! Special guest in this edition of Melanie Loves Tampa Bay: Shawn Eckley / Vice President at BB&T and expert in construction loans is here to answer your questions about getting financing for new construction homes.
Construction-to-permanent loans combine your lot and construction financing in a single loan. When your home is complete, the lender modifies your construction to a permanent mortgage. There is one upfront closing and only one set of closing costs.
There are typically two scenarios for construction-to-permanent financing.
1...
2018-11-0613 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayRealtor's Advice on Buying New Construction Homes 🏠Have you fallen in love with one of those perfect model homes in a new construction neighborhood? I love them, too. In this edition of Melanie Loves Tampa Bay, I'm sharing tips on how to be a smart buyer for new houses. Buying a resale house versus new construction are very different processes.
#1 - WORK WITH A REALTOR
#2 - UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT COSTS OF NEW CONSTRUCTION
#3 - NEGOTIATING WITH BUILDERS
#4 - CLOSING COSTS
#5 - CONSTRUCTION TIME EXPECTATIONS
I hope this information helps all of you out there thinking about buying a new construction home. Give me a call if you're...
2018-10-3011 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayTampa House Tour! Realtor's Tips for Maximizing Space in Your HomeWelcome to my house! We're taking a tour to show you a few rooms I've re-purposed in order to maximize space and stay organized to get the most out of my square footage. If you want to see how a Tampa Bay area real estate agent lives and sets up a home - here's your chance.
Workout Room - This was intended to be an office or an additional bedroom. Instead, I had the same hardwood floors run into the room and moved my home gym equipment in. It's great for me, because it has a glass paneled door and...
2018-10-2404 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayBest Tampa Restaurants You Need to Try 🍽️ Top Eats from Fine Dining to CasualThe food scene here in Tampa is growing and changing - it can be hard to keep up with all of the new places to eat.
From the most well-known to hidden gems, I'm sharing recommendations for some of my favorite restaurants from casual to fine dining.
BERN'S STEAK HOUSE
bernssteakhouse.com/
ULELE
www.ulele.com/
ARMATURE WORKS
armatureworks.com/
COLUMBIA RESTAURANT
www.columbiarestaurant.com/
ON SWANN
www.onswann.com/
CIRO'S SPEAKEASY AND SUPPER CLUB
www.cirostampa.com/
CW'S GIN JOINT
cwginjoint.com/
BIG RAY'S FISH CAMP
www.bigraysfishcamp.com/
DONATELLO ITALIAN RESTAURANT
www.donatellotampa.com/
JIMBO'S PIT BAR B-Q
...
2018-10-1607 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BaySmart Home Technology Products 📱 Easy to UseSharing some of my favorite new smart home technology products that are also easy to use! I have a love / hate relationship with smart home technology. Although I love the convenience and functions of some of the products, I also get very frustrated when they don't work or they're hard to understand.
I was more recently introduced to a few products that I hadn't used before and installed a few more. It is important to note that I do not use a central home system like Amazon Alexa or Google Home. I prefer to manage all of my technologies individually...
2018-10-1005 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayReal Estate Agent: Honest Advice, Lessons + My Worst YearExperienced Tampa Bay Realtor Melanie Atkinson with Smith & Associates shares her story of how she became a real estate agent, highs and lows in the real estate industry, advice for surviving downturns in the market, and her worst year in the business - making $11,000 in 2011 during America's recession.
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay area! 813.368.6084
DISCLAIMER: All content provided...
2018-10-0210 min
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay5 Home Selling 🏡 Pitfalls You Need to AvoidSelling your home? While you've probably seen information out there on this topic, we're diving a little deeper in this episode.
Here are my 5 home selling pitfalls you need to be aware of and avoid:
#1 - PACKING
#2 - FINANCING
#3 - TITLE
#4 - INSPECTION
#5 - THE APPRAISAL
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay area! 813.368.6084
DISCLAIMER: All content provided on melanielovestampabay...
2018-09-2508 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BaySwimming Pools 💦Maintenance, Costs + Buying a House w/PoolThinking about buying a house with a pool? There's a lot you need to know about owning and maintenance when it comes to swimming pools.
Fellow Smith & Associates real estate agent Travis Long is here to help, as he's also a licensed pool service contractor.
Top 3 things to consider:
1) LIFESTYLE
2) POOL INSPECTION
3) MAINTENANCE
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay...
2018-09-1810 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayBuying a House: Practical Home Features to ConsiderBuying a house? There are lots of practical, utilitarian features in a home that can be overlooked and underappreciated.
- Gutters
- Pre-wires & Pre-plumbs
- Utility Tubs
- Outdoor Water Lines
- Permanent Garage Shelving
- Storm Shutters
I encourage all of my buyers to pay attention to the big and little upgrades in a home.
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in...
2018-09-1105 min
Melanie Loves Tampa Bay5 Reasons Why Dating is Just Like Buying a House 🏠A comparison I've used often over the years with buyers is comparing dating to home buying.
Here are my 5 reasons why:
1) TECHNOLOGY
2) FLAWS
3) THE RIGHT FIT
4) APPROVAL
5) THE PRETTY FACE
I wish you the very best both in home and love searching!
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay area! 813.368.6084
DISCLAIMER: All content provided on melanielovestampabay.com and the Melanie...
2018-09-0407 min
Elite Expert Insider PodcastGet Fit Over Fifty | Debra AtkinsonJenn Foster and Melanie Johnson speak with Debra Atkinson about the importance of knowing your body as you grow older. Debra Atkinson is a fitness professional, who spent years hearing client lament about getting older and their metabolism slowing. Not yet 50+ at the time, she encouraged them as best she could and stayed positive with them. As a fitness professional for many years, you could say she fit the stereotype of "exercising all day." Then in her early 40s, Debra cut her physical activity teaching load by 6 hours a week! Talk about bad timing. Even though she wasn't exercising...
2018-09-0323 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayAll About Tampa's Westchase Area Neighborhoods | EPISODE 3In a previous episode, I talked about the Westchase community, but what about the surrounding area? Let's get into those neighborhoods right now!
If you're considering moving to this part of Tampa, it's important to understand all of your options.
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay area! 813.368.6084
DISCLAIMER: All content provided on melanielovestampabay.com and the Melanie Loves Tampa...
2018-08-2810 min
Melanie Loves Tampa BayAll About Tampa's Westchase Neighborhoods | EPISODE 2What has made Westchase one of the most popular Tampa Bay area neighborhoods for more than 20 years? That's an easy question.
In this episode - we will touch on the specific neighborhoods, school zones, community amenities, where to eat, and places to go!
WORLD OF WESTCHASE MAGAZINE: http://www.westchasewow.com/
Melanie is a Tampa Bay area Realtor with Smith & Associates. She loves Tampa Bay area area, houses, and helping clients buy and sell real estate.
melanielovestampabay.com
Email: matkinson@smithandassociates.com
Call/text me if you are looking to buy / sell a home in the Tampa Bay area! 813.368.6084
DISCLAIMER...
2018-08-1908 min