Melbourne is located about midway on the eastern coastline. Its location makes it easy to get anywhere in the State. Miami is just three hours away. For distances between cities go to http://www3.dot.state.fl.us/mileage/default.asp
AUTOMOBILE These major north/south routes are important arteries that connect a number of communities: Titusville in the north; Cocoa , Cocoa Beach and Rockledge in central Brevard; and Melbourne, Melbourne Beach and Palm Bay in the south Interstate 95 skirts Brevard County on its north/south trip from Maine to Miami. Interstates & Highways
Running from Maine to Miami, I-95 is the most heavily traveled north-south interstate on the East Coast, and for the convenience of businesses and residents alike, it runs directly through Brevard County. State Road A1A along the coastline. US1 In the barrier islands (Melbourne Beach to Port Canaveral. East West routes State Road 405 to the north, which traverses the NASA Causeway to the space center
S.R. 528 (the Beeline Expressway) in the center of the county. For goods and persons traveling to Orlando, Tampa and all points west, SR- 528 directly links to other major Florida highways like I-4 and the Florida Turnpike. S.R. 524 (the Bennett Causeway), merges with the Beeline, crosses the Indian River to Merritt Island and then the Banana River to the town of Cape Canaveral and Port Canaveral. State Roads 502 (Barnes Boulevard) and 509 (Wickham Road) serve Vierra and Melbourne. S.R. 518, connects Melbourne with the beach communities of Indian Harbour, Canova, Indialantic and Melbourne Beach. S.R. 509 travels north/south through the county's southern section and connects with Eau Gallie Boulevard. Airlines
At least five airlines serve passengers at Melbourne International Airport. Melbourne’s main carrier is Delta with service to Atlanta, Wash DC and New York/ Orlando International, is just 50 miles and about 45 minutes away via the Beeline Expressway (S.R. 528). From either place you can fly almost anywhere. Smaller executive airports are scattered around the region, including the Space Center Executive Airport. Cruise ships
The state's third-largest cruise-passenger port, Port Canaveral, also handles lots of space-related and commercial cargo at its deep-water facility. The East Coast Railroad carries freight by rail. Greyhound buses also provide transportation in the county.
Rail Service
Running directly through Brevard County, Florida’s East Coast Railway connects with Norfolk Southern and CSX and provides another ground-based transportation option for business. There are Amtrak stations located in Delray beach, Tampa and Jacksonville. There is also a unique car Auto Train (Amtrak) located in Sanford Florida. The Auto Train offers rail transportation for passengers and their personal vehicles between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.) and Sanford, Florida, near Orlando. Passengers are allowed to take their automobile, small van, light duty truck, or motorcycle when they travel north or south. Wide coach seats or private first-class sleeping compartments and dining cars and meals are offered. Reservations required. See your travel agent, call 1-800-USA-RAIL, 1-877-SKIP-I-95, or visit tickets.amtrak.com for reservations and fare information. In conclusion, whatever mode of transportation you need, be it for personal or for business, Melbourne is in a great location and has the transportation options.
<!--end content -->
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
You can lay in the sun on 33 miles of beaches at least 300 days a year. True, it rains at least a little 115 days of the year, but most of the county's average annual rainfall of 50.2 inches falls on sultry, mostly sunny summer afternoons--just in time to cool the air and freshen the spirits. A balmy 73 degrees Fahrenheit is the average year-round temperature. In January, the temperature averages 62 degrees, in August 81.5 degrees.
Another nice thing about the climate here is that it does cool off at night as compared to the more Southern parts of Florida. In Melbourne for example, we see a 20 degree drop day to night whereas in the Keys it averages 10 degrees. All in all the weather here is great.
Compare these to Melbourne. Remember we spend the majority of our life indoors…sleeping and working. So when we are off, wouldn’t it be nice to be able to spend it outside in nice weather!
More about Hurricanes:
I moved to Melbourne Florida (central east coast) partly because the area NEVER got hurricanes (and in fact the whole northeast and central Florida coast is in a geographical bight that in fact does not get hit, but Melbourne is on the cusp, a bit south).
In fact, Lots of people have moved here from other parts of Florida in part because there aren’t many weather dangers here. True, we DID have a couple of hurricanes in 2004, but it had been decades before that. Moreover, if you lived inland just a few miles that summer of 2004, because of the buffer of the long barrier island and the wide ICW/Indian River Lagoon, the net effects of the hurricanes were pretty mild.
In any case, the likelihood per the historical record of that happening again remains very low. The reality is that the weather on both Florida’s east and west coast is great, and you really don’t have to worry yourself through hurricane season, like folks perhaps do in some other parts of Florida (the Keys, the north coast of the Gulf of Mexico). Bottom line? I would be remiss if I did not tell you that hurricanes are a potential fact of life. But what I’ve outlined above underscores the reality that the very occasional occurrence is the exception, absolutely not the summertime rule.
More Info and observations:
Despite four devastating hurricanes in 2004, the number of Florida visitors rose 7% to an all-time high of 79.8 million last year and is on target to hit 80 million this year. Florida tourism generates about $57 billion annually and employs 912,700. If you live on the coast you stand the greatest chance of having one affect you. Some areas of Florida have gone fifty years plus without one but you never know. As a resident having lived in the Keys and now in central Florida I’ve been through them. In my opinion, the best thing you can do is buy a home that was built after Andrew-August 92 that was built to stricter building codes. Have window protection and a backup generator and make sure your insurance is up to date. If they ask you to leave, do it! Realize-If you live in an older home that was not built up to the stricter building codes (After Hurricane Andrew-August 1992) or you live in a mobile home you stand the best chance of having major structural damage. Living on the beach in a mobile home is asking for it. Although, you may never have a problem, you’re still definitely taking your chances. Barrier islands and open-water beaches are the most prone to damage. Having lived in California, I prefer the threat of a hurricane however as opposed to an earthquake. At least you have a warning. For current information about hurricanes go to http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ For 2005 climate info by areas go to http://www.coaps.fsu.edu/climate_center/LCD/2005LCD.html For current weather forecasts by cities go to http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/iwin/fl/fl.html *Living in a waterfront home typically means that you will pay a higher Insurance premium. The insurance is higher due to flood and wind concerns. Part of this is also because the pricing on these homes is higher so there is more value to insure against. Having said all this, I can’t imagine living elsewhere. It is really great to wake up and it’s sunny out.
We spend over half our lives indoors…so when you do go outside, wouldn’t it be nice if it was warm and sunny?
Great Gated Community close proximity to the Cape & 30 minutes or less to Orlando. Solid Poured Concrete with 10 year structural warranty, R-30 ceiling Insulation, gas heat, 12 seer A/C system, screened porch, sprinkler system-reclaimed water.This was the Model Home for builder & has never been lived in. Great Community pool & clubhouse, Rv & boat storage available. Lawn service & spraying included in HOA fee. $282.50 per quarter. Fantastic Location.
$159,900
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
***OWNER FINANCING!*** Great opportunity to own a wonderful home with 100' direct river frontage w/covered boat dock & slip; holds 9000 lbs, elec. and water. Panaramic views of the Indian River;superior cabinetry, wood flooring, fireplace, spacious rooms w/walk-in closets & jetted tub & separate shower! Cool back yard with pavered back porch. Exterior just painted 6-28-09. Don't miss this opportunity to own waterfront property at todays prices.Non-stop gorgeous views 24/7
$380,000
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
This Property is a short sale. Centrally Located Townhome in Cypress Springs Condo. This 3bedroom 2 Bath offers Master bedroom on the first Floor. Master Bath has His & Her Sinks as well as Large Walkin Closet.2nd & 3rd Bedrooms are Upstairs. Quiet community central location close to Shopping & Schools . Association Fees includes cable, water, insurance, pool, landscape maintenance & rec/fitness area. This unit is move in Ready and we have a team Dedicated to moving the process quickly
MELBOURNE, FL 32901 Offered at: $62,500
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
Things to consider when buying any waterfront vacation home.
First off, congratulations at looking toIndian River County for a possible permanent or vacation home. The good news about Brevard countyfrom an investment angle are:
There is only so much waterfront or Coastal property available. Indian River county has strict environmental laws that affect building permits. This means there are only so many homes and always will be a limited number of homes here.
Is there a view? Views really do matter. An unobstructed Ocean view adds as much as 60% to the value of a home per the Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics. Proximity to Golf courses or a park can add as much as 20% to a homes value. This is per an article by a much published author named Soren Anderson, a writer from Manchester College.
Consider the recreational activities… The What and the When. For example in a Ski resort area, your options are limited due to weather considerations and the total amount of activities available is definitely less. *InBrevard County, about the only thing you cannot do year round are mountain climbing and white water rafting.
Boating access and controlling depth Is there direct boating access on the property? If so, how large a boat can you have behind the home? This is determined by what we in the Keys call controlling draft or depth. For example: If a boat is under 30ft in most cases 3 ft draft is OK. Draft means...what is the lowest water depth you have to go through to get to open or deep water.If you have a sailboat or 50 ft boat you will need deeper draft such as 5ft. Now ..obviously if you have a 50 ft sailboat behind your home, the canals or waterways have to provide you with turn-around room. If the access is deep draft, then expect prices to go up. If there is no water access at the home or the draft is for kayaks only, in most cases expect a drop in price. If there is no direct water access...how far is the nearest boat ramp or is there a boat slip available? If so, is it included and what is the draft out of the boat slip. So the boating issue has a very direct effect on pricing here. Neighborhoods with bigger canals and deep draft boating are generally home to the Million dollar and plus homes.
Nearby Medical and shopping options These are very important considerations. If there is an accident, how far away is a hospital?
If you need groceries or restaurants, what is nearby? Oftentimes vacation properties can be secluded and don’t offer easy access to the above. At first being remote can seem as desirable, but in the end it can grow old quickly. This also affects home values by the way. If you can have the vacation feel and recreation, yet have amenities nearby, the prices go up.
How much room do you need? If you own a home with nearby recreation and sightseeing, expect people to come out of the woodwork. Everyone will be your friend. Larger homes, with more bedrooms, a 3/2 and up always rent better. So if you can, get a home with extra space.
Type of Construction or is it built to last. The age of the home will determine the building code that it was built to. In the Keys newer homes have to be built to strict specs as to wind handling characteristics. Also, look for low maintenance homes.
Finding renters Does the home have good rental potential and is there local rental management available? This is a very important consideration, both for long term and short term vacation rentals. Remember, even if you don’t want to rent, this can be an important consideration for a future buyer or if your situation changes.
Home maintenance. Are there nearby electricians, plumbers, appliance stores and general contractors. If anything does happen, the prices to have things repaired or replaced will be less if there is competition and service people are nearby. Check with the REALTOR you are talking with to get a Vendor list of who the Real Estate company uses to service their rentals and offices.
Rules and Regulations Make sure you are clear on and have copies of any deed restrictions or condo docs as to what is allowed and what is not. Too many rules can be appetizing for some but a turnoff for future buyers. For example if you have children who will want to use the property in the future as a college break, lots of communities can prohibit it.
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
New 2008 property tax Reforms: In a January 2008 ballot measure, Florida voters approved a constitutional amendment that introduced several changes to our state's property tax system. The four changes may affect the amount of tax you owe: Increased Homestead Exemption: If you're currently receiving a $25,000 homestead exemption on your property taxes, you will automatically be upgraded to a $50,000 exemption this year. If you are a homeowner and do not currently receive the exemption, you may file your application in person along with a $15 late fee, through mid-September. Save Our Homes Portability Cap: You may now trasfer up to $500,000 of your property tax cap to a new home when you move. To take advantage of this benefit, you must file a Homestead Exemption and Portability Application.
Tangible Personal Property Tax Exemption: If you're required to file a Tangible Personal Property Tax Return, you're entitled to a $25,000 exemption on business equipment. Non-Homestead Cap: Beginning next year, those properties not eligible for a homestead exemption may apply to receive a 10% cap on property tax increases.
Homestead Exemption Overview: FILING PERIOD JANUARY 1 – MARCH 1 Florida law requires that application be made by March 1st to be eligible for the $25,000 Homestead Exemption. Only new applicants or those who had a change of residence need apply. Automatic renewals are mailed in January each year.
In Florida, $25,000 of the assessed value of your home is exempt from real estate taxes, but you have to meet certain criteria to be eligible for the exemption. First you much have the title or record to your property as of January 1, and reside on the property. You have to be a legal and permanent resident of Florida as of January 1. When applying for the exemption status, bring along a copy of your deed or tax bill, and a Florida county voters registration or Declaration of Domicile. If you drive, you must also bring your Florida driver's license and automobile registration. New applications must be submitted in person at the appraiser's office, but renewals may be done by mail. For further information, consult the County Property Appraiser's Office.
Real Estate Taxes
All residents are subject to county taxes, but each city or special district levies taxes within its boundaries. City, special-district, and county taxes are combined in one tax bill. Real estate taxes are assessed as of January 1 each year. They are due and payable on November 1 and become delinquent if not paid before April 1 of the following year. Florida law holds the taxpayer responsible for receiving and paying tax bills in full. For additional information contact the County Property Appraiser's Office.
Establishing Residency
To establish residency, you may register to vote or file a Declaration of Domicile, which is an affidavit available at the CountyCourthouse. Filing one copy with the Circuit Court provides a record of your intention to make Florida your home. Simply moving to the State does not guarantee legal residency. For more information contact the County's Clerk of Circuit Court.
What is Homestead Exemption? Florida Law entitles every person, who has legal or equitable title to real estate and maintains it as his/her permanent residence, to apply for a $25,000 homestead property tax exemption. A partial exemption may apply if the ownership of the applicant is less than 100%.
Am I eligible to file? You must meet the following requirements as of January 1st:
Have legal or beneficial title to the property, recorded in the Official Records of County Residency on the property Be a permanent resident of the State of Florida Be a United States citizen or possess a Permanent Residence Card (green card)
When do I file? The deadline to file an application for exemption is March 1st. Under Florida law, failure to file for any exemption by March 1st constitutes a waiver of the exemption privilege for the year. Regular filing is January 2nd - March 1st. Pre-filing for the coming year is March 2nd - December 31st.
How do I file? Take copies of the required documentation to your Exemption Department:Generally at the County or City Court House
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
Home inspections and what they should cover Siding: Look for dents or buckling Foundations: Look for cracks or water seepage Exterior Brick: Look for cracked bricks or mortar pulling away from bricks Insulation: Look for condition, adequate rating for climate (the higher the R value, the more effective the insulation is) Doors and Windows: Look for loose or tight fits, condition of locks, condition of weatherstripping Roof: Look for age, conditions of flashing, pooling water, buckled shingles, or loose gutters and downspouts Ceilings, walls, and moldings. Look for loose pieces, dry wall that is pulling away. Porch/Deck: Loose railings or step, rot Electrical: Look for condition of fuse box/circuit breakers, number of outlets in each room. Plumbing: Look for poor water pressure, banging pipes, rust spots or corrosion that indicate leaks, sufficient insulation Water Heater: Look for age, size adequate for house, speed of recovery, energy rating. Furnace/Air Conditioning: Look for age, energy rating. Furnaces are rated by annual fuel utilization efficiency; the higher the rating, the lower your fuel costs. However, other factors such as payback period and other operating costs, such as electricity to operate motors. Garage: Look for exterior in good repair; condition of floor—cracks, stains, etc.; condition of door mechanism. Basement: Look for water leakage, musty smell. Attic: Look for adequate ventilation, water leaks from roof. Septic Tanks (if applicable): Adequate absorption field capacity for the percolation rate in your area and the size of your family. Driveways/Sidewalks: Look for cracks, heaving pavement, crumbling near edges, stains. www.REALTOR.org/realtormag Reprinted from REALTOR® Magazine Online by permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® . Copyright 2003. All rights reserved
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
Plantation Oaks in Titusville. 38 Lots 50 X 125. Plantation Oaks is a gated community featuring a beautiful Clubhouse and pool, sidewalks and several lakes. Lawn Service included. Located just 30 minutes from Orlando, 20 minutes to Playalinda Beach, 2 minutes to shopping and an assortment of restaurants. Enjoy watching the Shuttle Launches from your own yard. Builders only. $30,000.00 each.
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
***OWNER FINANCING!*** Great opportunity to own a wonderful home with 100' direct river frontage w/covered boat dock & slip; holds 9000 lbs, elec. and water. Panaramic views of the Indian River;superior cabinetry, wood flooring, fireplace, spacious rooms w/walk-in closets & jetted tub & separate shower! Cool back yard with pavered back porch. Exterior just painted 6-28-09. Don't miss this opportunity to own waterfront property at todays prices.Non-stop gorgeous views 24/7
Susan R. Engle REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ed Schlitt 907 US Highway 192 Melbourne, FL 32901 Direct: (321) 951-3300 Cell: (321) 543-8172 Fax: (321) 951-3080 E-mail
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
;)
;)
